We are currently booked for two trips (New England and Costa Rica) over the same time frame (long story) so we have to cancel one. We have a 12 yr old son. Is there anyone out there whose been to both of these places and could offer some advice?

Thanks

Right now we are scheduled to spend several nights in Vermont visiting Stowe and the Ben and Jerry's Factory tour. Up to Old Quebec City for several nights and then on to Bar Harbor for 3 nights (Biking, Hiking, Lobster Boat tour, Jordan Pond). From there we drive down the Maine coast and take a mail boat out to Mohegan Island for one night. Continuing on we go to Freeport for skeet shooting at LL Bean and then leave out of Manchester.

VS.

Flying into Costa Rica and driving up to Arenal/La Fortuna for 3 nights (Zip lining, rafting, coffee plantation tour). Then one night in Monteverde. Then on to Manuel Antonio and the beach/national park for several nights.

When are you traveling?

Do you want tropical or New England scenic towns, rocky Maine coast, and lobster?

Both trips sound great to me.

Apples and oranges. Which do you really want?

And what about Zika?

Well honestly, I don't have a preference. Just hoping somebody whose done both could offer their opinion. Two concerns about Costa Rica would be Zika and the recent volcanic eruption.

I have a trip report on Costa Rica with kids-click on my user name. We had a great time last year. We did not have issues with mosquitos when we went. Maine is beautiful but an entirely different experience. I see international travel as an every so many years splurge vs. domestic being an annual (at least) occurrence. So I would look at the budget as well. What does the rest of the family think??

StantonHyde, Thanks, I will check out your trip report. The rest of the family is split as well. We love NE but have never been to the locations scheduled.

I've done both several times. I don't know when you are going, but this would be a huge factor. I love NE in the fall, with colors, scenery and lobster. CR in winter is best. Ok beaches, great fishing, weather and good food. I will go back to both.

Have done both and also have a 12 year old son. Costa Rica hands down.

September is generally the most pleasant month of the year for Maine & New England, while it's the rainiest month of the year for Costa Rica. This is why someone asked when your trip is.