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Costa Rica

By Sasha Barrie on Wednesday 21 November 2007

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Marie Claire Travel: Costa Rica

WE FLEW TO...

The Costa Rican capital, San José, then took a five-hour drive south to Dominical, a laid-back village on the Pacific coast with surfers, dark sand beaches and terrific sunsets. With a rainy season that runs from May to October, Costa Rica is best for a winter break but you'll need to book flights and hotels well ahead. American Airlines (www.americanairlines.co.uk) flies from London Heathrow via Miami, in December return fares cost from £685 including taxes.

WE STAYED AT...

Villas Rio Mar (00 506 787 0052; www.villasriomar.com), a jungle and beach eco-resort on the banks of the Baru River. It's surrounded by amazing tropical forests and guests stay in wooden bungalows with a terrace and hammock, plus there's a big pool, spa and lush gardens. You can rent mountain bikes and surfboards, go diving and horseriding, or the many rewarding excursions include visits to the Parque Nacional Corcovado and boat trips to see whales, dolphins and turtles. In high season double rooms cost from £38 including tax.

WHILE YOU"RE THERE...

Dominical is an ideal place to relax after exploring other parts of Costa Rica. Nature and eco-tourism are the big draws - English is widely spoken, and it's easy to get around. Top sights include the active volcano of Arenal, the Monteverde cloud-forest, and wildlife-rich Tortuguero on the Caribbean coast. Geodyssey (020 7281 7788; www.geodyssey.co.uk) can arrange tailormade tours either driving yourself or with guides and transfers. Costa Rica 2007 (Fodors £12.99) is an up-to-date guide, or see www.visitcostarica.com.

Words by Sasha Barrie, Wednesday 21 November 2007

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I was in Costa Rica a few months ago , an amazing destination with so much to offer for every budget. There is a great Irish Tour operator www.beaconsouthamerica.com that tailormake itineraries ex Ireland and UK.
Comment by Deirdre on December 13 12:40