Hello! My husband and I would like the take a vacation this spring, specifically May 12 to 22. Originally we intended to go to Portugal when we thought we had more time. Then we considered Costa Rica, but May being part of the highest rainy season is a little bit of a turn off (Costa Rica is certainly stil an option, but we don't want to be really limited in our activities by consecutive rainy days). Anyways, we are open to suggestion! We are foodies, love to relax/wine/dine, but also enjoy being active (Animal tours, zip lining, hiking, hence Costa Rica). We would love any advice all of you wonderful travellers have to offer!

Where are you flying from?

We are able to fly either from New York City (any of the 3 surrounding airports) or Columbus, Ohio

Why did you drop Portugal? Was it because of the length of the flight, because that will limit you to the Americas, and South America isn't much shorter, depending on where you go.

This is not firsthand knowledge, but we have a friend who runs a small nature tour company, and he avoids Belize and Costa Rica and Guatemala in spring and summer because of the rain, and the mosquitoes.

Maybe you really should reconsider Portugal. Otherwise, how about destinations in the US: the desert southwest, Pacific Northwest, California, all offer great food/wine/beer as well as natural beauty and outdoor activities.

Weather-wise May is supposed to be thebest month for Hawaii. Lower hotel prices, too.

Take a bike and boat tour. It's a reasonably priced option, you'll meet folks from all other countries and it's an active way to spend a week of your vacation. I've taken two in Europe (Danube and the Netherlands during tulip time). This review will give you a taste of what it's like:
http://packinglighttravel.com/cyclin...ike-and-barge/

You know, I would be more interested in your posts if they didn't all include a link to your blog. It may not be commercial advertising, but it's still advertising.