steve diamanti

Hello, <BR> <BR>I am looking into honeymooning in Costa Rica, I will be there for 7-10 days and would like to spend approx. 3 days beach, 2 days volcano areas, 2 days rain forest. <BR> <BR>My tentative plan is 3 days barcelo playa tambor ( in tambor), 2 days arenal lodge (volcan arenal), and 2 days Monteverde (loding not decided). <BR> <BR>Any advice on better destinations, intinerary or accomodations would be appreciated. <BR> <BR>thanks so much, <BR> <BR>steve

Scott Gauvin

Steve, <BR> <BR>What is your reasoning for Playa Tambor? If you are looking for a very large resort that has everything within it's compound it is the biggest in Costa Rica. If, however, you are looking for a place that will put you in touch with the beautiful country you are visiting and give you some interaction with the local people and culture, you may want to consider a hotel that is locally owned and operated and that feeds directly into the local economy. There are dozens all along the Pacific coast. <BR> <BR>Arenal lodge is a good choice and others that I like are Arenal Paraiso and Montanas del Fuego. <BR> <BR>Your not visiting the Pacuare river in your itinerary? The Pacuare is a staple landmark for Costa Rica. It is considered the 5th most scenic whitewater river in the world. You pass through tropical jungles, over 19 waterfalls and breath taking canyons. You'll probably spot toucans and morpho butterflies along the river as well. <BR> <BR>You can also find a few sample itineraries for Honeymoons on the IAU site at www.worldwanderlust.com. In the itineraries are hotels they suggest that might give you a few other ideas.

harry

Best wishes, Went to CR in April, 1999. Try Guanacaste, Melia Playa, the excursions into the areas are nice. The rooms are spacious and the beach and golf courseare exellent. Arenal Volcano is wonderful, it will rejuvenate you and refresh you. You must river raft!!!

Lisa

Hi Steve, <BR>I was in CR in Jan/Feb 2001. I didn't go to Tambor but enjoyed Monteverde, (it was chilly). Was at Arenal for a few days but the volcano was in the clouds the whole time, hope you have better luck. I would definitely recommend that you go to Manuel Antonio/Quepos to experience the beach. The beaches are beautiful in this area. Manuel Antonio Nat'l Park is a must with wild jungle, secluded, quiet white sand beaches, monkeys and wildlife. I traveled all over CR and Manuel Antonio/Quepos was my favorite area.

Susan

Hi Steve: <BR> My husband and I stayed at Barcelo Playa Tambor last year in late May and loved the experience. Being the start of off season, we had a few of our tours be private or semi-private and the place was probably at quarter to half capacity so great service. The locals drive in for the weekends though and it does get chaotic then. We also stayed at the Marriott in San Jose and thought that was really top notch. Best wishes on your wedding.

Rae

Congratulations, Steve! <BR> <BR>My boyfriend and I travelled to CR last Feb. We stayed at Barcelo Playa Tambor and really enjoyed it. Thought the service and grounds were really nice. Beach was nice as far as hammocks and shade trees and louge chairs, however the water wasn't that great--since it's on a bay --murky water from black sand. All of the tours we took through their tour service were great--nice informative guides--lots of fun. <BR> <BR>We felt one week was not enough for all we wanted to do. We're planning to go back to CR this winter and do 2 weeks--some time at Playa Tambor, some time a the Arenal Volcano (already did the cloud forest -- try the Sky Trek -- you'll love it), and some time probably in the Tamarindo area (for some nice white sand beach time). <BR> <BR>Hope I was of some help. <BR> <BR>Enjoy your honeymoon

Dave

Congrats! A bit of advise...first, use "we" rather "I" from now on...tranquilo. After the wedding, treat yourselves and relax. So many places in so little time. Relax! You don't need this site if you have deep pockets. So, see a lot for little money (www.ecoscapetours.com). This 11-hour tour is GREAT! <BR>San Jose at Kapsplace (www.vacationspot.com/kapsplace.htm). The beach scene at her mom's place in Playa Cacao (a short boat ride from Golfito). Or splurge, in Dominical, at the www.villasriomar.com. A bit north at Matapalo, www.junglehouse.com. More touristy look at www.maqbeach.com. Have fun and keep it simple.