Costa Rica Reopens

On October 1st Costa Rica opened to visitors from several US states including California.  On November 1^st Costa Rica will be open to travelers from all parts of the United States.  This magical little Central American country has always been a joy to visit due to its natural splendor.  For those looking to travel, with precautions, Costa Rica may be a good option as many of its attractions are outdoors and allow for social distancing.

Costa Rica’s Coasts Offers Inviting Beaches and Beach Towns

Costa Rica is known for its beaches.  And there are two coasts to choose from, the Caribbean, and the Pacific.

The Caribbean coast is less developed and rustic.  It is somewhat difficult to get to and is attractive for its low-key vibe.  The weather is tropical with more humidity and rainfall than the Pacific coast.  But this contributes to its Caribbean flavor.  Hostels and small bed and breakfasts are the main lodging options.

The Pacific coast has a wet season and a dry season.  From January to March it is incredibly rare for it to rain.  You are almost guaranteed perfect beach weather.  But even in the rainy season it rarely rains all day.  This coast contains the most famous and developed beach towns in the country.  Lodging ranges from campgrounds to five-star luxury resorts.  Although more developed, there are still corners where you can escape from the crowds.  The Pacific coast is also famous for its surfing.

Costa Rica’s Interior Offers Volcanos and Colonial Towns

Although the beaches are fantastic, I personally enjoy the mountainous interior of the country more.  The high altitude keeps the temperature and humidity down.  Many interior towns and national parks experience almost year-round spring like weather.

The capital city of San Jose, trendy Escazu, and charming colonial towns such as Cartago, Heredia and Alajuela are all in the interior.  This is also the site of Costa Rica’s big three volcanos.

Irazu is the tallest in the country at over 11,000 feet in height.  It mostly spews ash, its last major eruption being in 1994.  It is famous for the surrounding ash covered landscape which resembles the moon.  Poas is the second tallest.  It is known for its lush cloud forest and two crater lakes.  It has limited visitation due to a major eruption in 2017 with minor eruptions in 2019.  Arenal is the last of the big three.  It is the youngest of the volcanos and is known for its symmetrical cone and surrounding forests.  The interior also contains many other national parks and reserves known for their wildlife, hiking, rafting and other activities.

Costa Rican People are Friendly and Welcoming

Ticos, the nickname for Costa Ricans, are known for their friendliness and pride in their stable, democratic country in an area that has not always been stable.  They are justified in this pride and enjoy sharing their country with visitors.  If you are interested in a vacation to Costa Rica now that Costa Rica is reopening, or any of the other amazing places our World has to offer, contact Purple Light Vacations.  We would love to assist you in planning and booking your next trip.

(Note: To visit Costa Rica from the US a negative PCR-RT COVID test taken within 72 hours of departure is required.  Visitors must also purchase supplemental travel insurance covering medical and lodging in case treatment or quarantine is required while in the country).

Purple Light Vacations provides you with the knowledge, insight and personalized service to make your vacation all you want it to be at no additional cost. We help you travel in the know wherever you go. To get started, fill out this quick form or call 619.324.1444 (ext. 3).