Costa Rica’s signature phrase, pura vida, captures the spirit of the country and its many adventures: coastlines where monkeys swing through the trees, zip lines stretching across iconic cloud forest canopies, and gorgeous views of volcanoes. Costa Rica’s natural beauty is unmatched, and it keeps tr…Costa Rica’s signature phrase, pura vida, captures the spirit of the country and its many adventures: coastlines where monkeys swing through the trees, zip lines stretching across iconic cloud forest canopies, and gorgeous views of volcanoes. Costa Rica’s natural beauty is unmatched, and it keeps travelers coming back.
In this episode, host Angie Orth is joined by Jen Ruiz, a travel journalist who recently completed a road trip across Costa Rica. Her work has appeared in outlets including The Washington Post, AFAR, and Condé Nast Traveler. She’s also the author of several books, including The Solo Female Travel Book and You Need a Vacation! How to Travel with a Full-Time Job. Beyond her writing, Jen is a three-time TEDx speaker known for championing the power of solo travel.
Jen recounts her cross-country trip, highlighting Costa Rica’s must-see destinations and sharing tips to make the most of your experience. From navigating potholes to hiking through the rainforest and finding the best zip line, she covers the essentials for every type of traveler seeking to explore the country.
What You’ll Learn:
3:45 What makes Costa Rica special and why people love coming back
17:41 Why Treetopia is one of the best places to zip line in Costa Rica
20:17 The must-see small town that’s filled with exciting activities
25:51 What to know before visiting the national parks
Latin America has some of the world’s most incredible travel experiences—so why are so many travelers still hesitant to explore it? Kathleen Hall, co-founder of Explore the Americas and Dive the Americas, shares how moving to Costa Rica changed her life and ultimately shaped the kind of travel compa…Latin America has some of the world’s most incredible travel experiences—so why are so many travelers still hesitant to explore it? Kathleen Hall, co-founder of Explore the Americas and Dive the Americas, shares how moving to Costa Rica changed her life and ultimately shaped the kind of travel company she wanted to build. Picking up from Part 1 with her business partner Melanie Marsell, we talk about the misconceptions still holding Latin America back, what travelers actually want from the region, and why luxury can mean being pushed outside your comfort zone without sacrificing comfort. We also get into responsible wildlife tourism, choosing the right local partners, scaling a highly personalized business, and why destinations like Guatemala and El Salvador deserve more attention. Kathleen also shares why changing perceptions and a growing demand for experiential travel could make the next decade a defining one for tourism across Latin America.
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Send us Fan Mail On this week's show we'll get some tips and insight on travelling to the Philippines. Travel Expert Onanta Forbes is there, so we'll join her live from the Philippines. Then we'll head to Costa Rica, a popular vacation spot for many people. Known for it's rainforests, sunny beaches,…Send us Fan Mail On this week's show we'll get some tips and insight on travelling to the Philippines. Travel Expert Onanta Forbes is there, so we'll join her live from the Philippines. Then we'll head to Costa Rica, a popular vacation spot for many people. Known for it's rainforests, sunny beaches, mountains, volcanoes, waterfalls and rivers. If you've been you know what I'm talking about so we'll chat with the co-founder of Anywhere.com who is an expert on traveling to Costa Rica. Sup...more
We’re taking you to The Springs Resort & Spa, the most scenic and fun hot springs resort in La Fortuna. We’re giving you the details on how the day pass works, why this spot stands out with its 25 thermal pools and water slide, how to enjoy the swim-up bar and restaurants, and share the epic views o…We’re taking you to The Springs Resort & Spa, the most scenic and fun hot springs resort in La Fortuna. We’re giving you the details on how the day pass works, why this spot stands out with its 25 thermal pools and water slide, how to enjoy the swim-up bar and restaurants, and share the epic views of Arenal Volcano.
More Costa Rica Travel Resources
• Costa Rica 1 Week Itinerary
• Things to do in Costa Rica via our curated Viator list
• Stay at Arenal Paraíso Resort & Thermo Mineral Hot Springs
Find a great flight deal to San Jose, Costa Rica by signing up for Thrifty Traveler Premium and get flight deals sent straight to your inbox. Use our promo code TSP to get $20 off your first year subscription.
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Shop: Trip Itineraries & Amazon Storefront
Connect: YouTube, TikTok, and Instagram and contact us at [email protected] to submit a question of the week or inquire about guest interviews and advertising. Submit a question of the week or inquire about guest interviews and advertising.
Contains affiliate links, thanks for supporting Travel Squad Podcast!more
We spent 7 days in Costa Rica hiking to waterfalls, spotting wild sloths in the jungle, soaking in volcano-fed hot springs, and exploring our way through this amazing country. On this trip we flew in and out of San Jose and bookended our trip there. We spent two nights in Arenal and two nights in th…We spent 7 days in Costa Rica hiking to waterfalls, spotting wild sloths in the jungle, soaking in volcano-fed hot springs, and exploring our way through this amazing country. On this trip we flew in and out of San Jose and bookended our trip there. We spent two nights in Arenal and two nights in the Monteverde Cloud Forest.
Episode Highlights:
• Costa Rica Travel Tips
• Hiking to the best views of the Arenal Volcano
• Things to do in La Fortuna including: The Springs Resort, Sky Adventures Arenal Park & La Fortuna Waterfall
• Things to do in Monteverde including: Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Reserve, Sloth Observatory, El Tigre Waterfall hike, Santa Elena Reserva Bosque Nuboso
Take this exact same trip by following ourCosta Rica Itinerary - download the PDF guide now!
Check out our Costa Rica Viator Experiences for all activities we recommend and even some that we wanted to do but couldn't get to.
Hotels we stayed at on this trip:
• DoubleTree by Hilton Cariari - San Jose Costa Rica
• Arenal Hotel - Arenal Paraíso Resort & Thermo Mineral Hot Springs
• Monteverde Hotel - El Establo Mountain Hotel
If you're looking for a flight deal to Costa Rica, or anywhere else, we recommend signing up for Thrifty Traveler Premium to get daily flight deals (points & cash) emailed directly to you! Use our promo code TSP to get $20 off your first year subscription.
Connect: YouTube, TikTok, and Instagram and contact us at [email protected] to submit a question of the week or inquire about guest interviews and advertising. Submit a question of the week or inquire about guest interviews and advertising.
Contains affiliate links, thanks for supporting Travel Squad Podcast!more
Hear about a road trip through Central America as the Amateur Traveler talks about traveling overland through Costa Rica, Nicaragua, El Salvador, Honduras, and Guatemala in search of volcanoes, tropical birds, colonial cities, crater lakes, Mayan ruins, and a few new countries added to his map.
Thi…Hear about a road trip through Central America as the Amateur Traveler talks about traveling overland through Costa Rica, Nicaragua, El Salvador, Honduras, and Guatemala in search of volcanoes, tropical birds, colonial cities, crater lakes, Mayan ruins, and a few new countries added to his map.
This week's show is supported by the new Smart Travel Podcast. Travel smarter — and spend less — with help from NerdWallet. Check out Smart Travel here.
Why should you visit Central America?
This multi-country journey combines some of the region’s best experiences into one trip: cloud forests in Costa Rica, volcanic landscapes in Nicaragua, changing fortunes in El Salvador, the Mayan ruins of Copán in Honduras, and the lakeside villages and colonial cities of Guatemala. Along the way, Chris finds colorful markets, Scarlet Macaws, crater lakes, beautiful colonial architecture, and more volcanoes than he expected.
In this episode.
Chris shares stories from a 15-day small-group trip that began in San José, Costa Rica, and ended in Antigua, Guatemala. The trip was designed to pick up three new countries for him: Nicaragua, Honduras, and El Salvador, while also revisiting Costa Rica and Guatemala.
Bridget Crocker is a trailblazer in women's empowerment within the outdoor industry. A leading whitewater rafting guide in far-flung regions of Zambia, Ethiopia, the Philippines, Peru, Chile, Costa Rica, India, and the Western United States. During this interview, she discusses her new memoir The Ri…Bridget Crocker is a trailblazer in women's empowerment within the outdoor industry. A leading whitewater rafting guide in far-flung regions of Zambia, Ethiopia, the Philippines, Peru, Chile, Costa Rica, India, and the Western United States. During this interview, she discusses her new memoir The Rivers Daughter. Support your local bookstore and pickup a copy today!
Bridget is also a contributing author to Lonely Planet guidebooks and Travel Anthology and the Best Women's Travel Writing series from Travelers' Tales. Her work has been featured in magazines including Westways, Men's Journal, National Geographic Adventure, Trail Runner, Paddler, Outside, Vela, and Patagonia's blog, The Cleanest Line, among others. She lives in Malibu, California.
Show notes:
00:04:36 - Connecting with Nature and Overcoming Challenges
00:09:04 - Overcoming Insecurity in Guide School
00:10:27 - Facing Fear on the Snake River
00:12:29 - Empowerment and Challenges in River Guiding
00:15:46 - Shifting Power Dynamics in Society
00:20:03 - Empowering Women Beyond Sexual Power
00:22:54 - Navigating Power Dynamics as Women
00:24:44 - Connecting Through Nyami Nyami and Zambezi
00:28:21 - Lessons on Allyship and Empowerment
00:30:35 - Understanding Grief Behind Rage
00:32:55 - Overcoming Obstacles in Relationships
00:36:53 - Embracing Change and Courage
00:40:29 - Embracing Change and New Experiences
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From Tokyo in what may be the best business class there is, to Costa Rica for the battle of the carts, with a joyful ode to the wild horse of aircrafts, the 757.
You've thought of it. Probably even dreamed of it. Leaving your regular life - the job, the car, the house, and the rat race - to move to a tropical location, renovate, and run a hotel.
No worries, no stress. All sunshine, surf, fresh coconuts. Pure bliss.
Well...you've dreamed of doing it, but …You've thought of it. Probably even dreamed of it. Leaving your regular life - the job, the car, the house, and the rat race - to move to a tropical location, renovate, and run a hotel.
No worries, no stress. All sunshine, surf, fresh coconuts. Pure bliss.
Well...you've dreamed of doing it, but Steph and Luke have actually done it.
In 2020, they "bet it all" to move to Costa Rica and open up a hotel with two young daughters in tow.
Heck, they even got a tv show out of it - HGTV's "Betting on Paradise."
They were living the dream.
What could possibly go wrong?
Turns out...A LOT.
Here's the full, behind the scenes story of that journey, told by two people who have some of best energy you could possibly have - and still were almost broken by it! more
Ever dreamt of moving to a tropical country, beach breeze blowing through your hair, surrounded by lush vegetation, wildlife, and amazing surf?
("Uhhh, yea Trav, basically every day!")
Well great - then you're in luck.
Because 4 years ago, my great friend Erika Kennedy packed up her life in Canada, …Ever dreamt of moving to a tropical country, beach breeze blowing through your hair, surrounded by lush vegetation, wildlife, and amazing surf?
("Uhhh, yea Trav, basically every day!")
Well great - then you're in luck.
Because 4 years ago, my great friend Erika Kennedy packed up her life in Canada, her husband, two kids, and mom and headed off for that dream lifestyle in Costa Rica.
And after living there for 4 years, she explains what it is ACTUALLY like to live that beachfront paradise lifestyle - the good, the bad, and the WTF - including some of the most random things you can't get there.
(oh, and she also renovated a decrepit mountaintop house, so she's really seen it all).
Enjoy this behind the scenes look at what life in Costa Rica is really like...and maybe you'll be packing your bags sooner rather than later. more
Today we are chatting with Celeste Lawson (@mscelestelawson), founder of Melanin Tours, about her journey of relocating to Costa Rica and the services her company offers to help others do the same. We discuss the challenges and opportunities of moving abroad, including immigration processes, real es…Today we are chatting with Celeste Lawson (@mscelestelawson), founder of Melanin Tours, about her journey of relocating to Costa Rica and the services her company offers to help others do the same. We discuss the challenges and opportunities of moving abroad, including immigration processes, real estate options, healthcare, and the cost of living. Celeste shares her insights on the expat community in Costa Rica and the various ways to experience the country, from relocation tours to cultural experiences. In this episode, you will learn:
• The digital nomad visa is one of the easiest ways to move to Costa Rica.
• Real estate prices in Costa Rica are significantly lower than in the U.S.
• Healthcare in Costa Rica is affordable and accessible, with various options available.
• Local dining options, known as sodas, offer authentic meals at reasonable prices.
• Costa Rica has a vibrant expat community that provides support and resources.
• Language barriers can be navigated with local resources and classes.
• The cost of living in Costa Rica can be budget-friendly, especially with local products.
• Celeste is launching a budget-friendly monthly relocation tour for interested individuals.
• Community and support are important in the relocation process.
...and more!
You can find Celeste here!
https://www.instagram.com/mscelestelawson
You can get your ticket for our April Bougie in a Backpack Virtual Travel Summit here, where you can check our Celeste's session!
You can find our FREE Travel Beginner's Blueprint Here:dashboard.mailerlite.com/forms/457913/90732056966858389/shar
Want to submit a question or comment to our Bougie Mailbag? You can do so here:
Be sure to join our facebook community: facebook.com/groups/bougieinabackpack
In this episode, Angie and Anthony Cave dive into the latest in travel news, personal updates, and tips for making the most of your points and miles. The highlight post of the week is Scott's review of Secrets Papagayo in Costa Rica, a Hyatt all-inclusive, where snorkeling and diverse dining options…In this episode, Angie and Anthony Cave dive into the latest in travel news, personal updates, and tips for making the most of your points and miles. The highlight post of the week is Scott's review of Secrets Papagayo in Costa Rica, a Hyatt all-inclusive, where snorkeling and diverse dining options stood out. Angie and Anthony also discuss the new U.K. Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) requirement starting January 9, Delta’s partnership switch from Lyft to Uber, and updates on Hyatt, inc...more
The author of a guidebook to Costa Rica discusses what the phrase "pura vida" conveys amid the tropical abundance of her adopted Central American eco-paradise. Then a Morocco expert and fellow guidebook writer recommends the best cities for immersing yourself in the Old World atmosphere of Morocco's…The author of a guidebook to Costa Rica discusses what the phrase "pura vida" conveys amid the tropical abundance of her adopted Central American eco-paradise. Then a Morocco expert and fellow guidebook writer recommends the best cities for immersing yourself in the Old World atmosphere of Morocco's intimate, car-free medina neighborhoods. And fellow listeners call in to share how their passions and hobbies have provided a framework for memorable overseas travels.more
Costa Rica is a trending destination—and for good reason! 🌴 From lush rainforests to stunning beaches, it’s the perfect getaway for families looking to explore nature and experience a new culture. In this episode of All Things Travel, Ryan and Julie share a detailed family-friendly itinerary that co…Costa Rica is a trending destination—and for good reason! 🌴 From lush rainforests to stunning beaches, it’s the perfect getaway for families looking to explore nature and experience a new culture. In this episode of All Things Travel, Ryan and Julie share a detailed family-friendly itinerary that combines adventure, relaxation, and unforgettable memories. Key Topics Covered: 🌋 Explore the Rainforest: Walking the iconic hanging bridges and spotting wildlifeVisiting sloth sanctuaries and expe...more
In this episode of the Solo Travel Woman Podcast, host Sara Straw explores the power of spontaneity in solo travel, sharing personal stories from destinations like Barcelona, Prague, and Costa Rica. Sara dives into how embracing the unexpected can lead to unforgettable experiences, offering practica…In this episode of the Solo Travel Woman Podcast, host Sara Straw explores the power of spontaneity in solo travel, sharing personal stories from destinations like Barcelona, Prague, and Costa Rica. Sara dives into how embracing the unexpected can lead to unforgettable experiences, offering practical tips on wandering without a plan, staying flexible when things go wrong, and confidently saying "yes" to new adventures. With advice on packing light, solo dining, and making connections with fellow travelers, this episode is packed with inspiration for solo travelers ready to plan less and experience more.
==About Sara==
Sara Ann Straw, CMP is a travel design and destination event expert with over 15 years of experience solo traveling. With a passion for solo travel, Sara founded the Solo Travel Woman Society to bring together other women with similar interests and passions to form a community, share knowledge and empower one another. Sara is the author of The Ultimate Solo Travel Woman Guide, and host of The Solo Travel Woman Podcast.
Get your copy of The Ultimate Guide for The Solo Travel Woman!!
Join our email list and receive free solo travel tips.
Share the adventure with your little ones - get a discount from our sponsor Little Passports.
★ Visit our website to get access to our Solo Travel Mentorship Program, courses, merch and more: www.solotravelwoman.com
We have a fun episode for you today, centered around Costa Rica and family travel. As one of our most popular destinations, we're always working to find new and interesting ways to explore this beautiful country and to help families make lasting memories.
Joining me on this episode is my friend an…We have a fun episode for you today, centered around Costa Rica and family travel. As one of our most popular destinations, we're always working to find new and interesting ways to explore this beautiful country and to help families make lasting memories.
Joining me on this episode is my friend and partner in the region, Javier Echecopar. Javier also brought along his 15 year old daughter, Fiore, to give us a bit of perspective on life in Costa Rica for kids and teens and to share some of her favorite travel experiences.
We chat about everything from bioluminescence, to the best way to travel around the country, to some interesting ways to immerse in the local culture.
I hope you enjoy this fun episode of Luxury Travel Insider.
Looking to book a luxury hotel? Get special perks and support the podcast by booking here: https://www.virtuoso.com/advisor/sarahgroen/travel/luxury-hotels
If you want our expert guidance and help planning a luxury trip with experiences you can't find online, tell us more here and we'll reach out: https://bellandblytravel.com/book-a-trip/
Guided Costa Rica Camino with Homestays and Daily Luggage Transfer
PART II: Join us as we continue our 175 mile/280 km Costa Rica Camino where, over 16 days, you walk from the Caribbean to the Pacific Ocean, across the entire country (indeed the continent and over the continental divide!). You'll …Guided Costa Rica Camino with Homestays and Daily Luggage Transfer
PART II: Join us as we continue our 175 mile/280 km Costa Rica Camino where, over 16 days, you walk from the Caribbean to the Pacific Ocean, across the entire country (indeed the continent and over the continental divide!). You'll experience an array of ecosystems and see wildlife and fauna in one of the most biodiverse regions of the world.
The hike is fully guided and includes all meals and daily luggage transfer. When I went, I did a combination of small lodges and camping. Our guest Laurie and her husband opted for a private tour for the two of them and they stayed in homestays, for a completely different experience than the one I covered last year.
Less than 1000 hikers have completed the Costa Rica Camino as of this recording! Learn all about it on the show and on the website and Travel Planner. I recommend going with my affiliate, UrriTrek. Use Promo Code ATA100 to save $100 on your full Costa Rica Camino.
COMPLETE SHOW NOTES See important links for planning your adventure, photos, videos and more cool info about today's show.
Get FREE Travel Planners for ATA adventures (and each month you will get an email from Kit with links to all future Travel Planners (no spam promise!). Get the monthly newsletter here.
CONTACT KIT
Resources
Promo Codes and Recommended Tour Companies
Travel Insurance: Quickly and easily compare rates and policies from different companies - no need to give any identifying information unless you decide to buy! The best way to find the right policy for your adventures.
Train For Your Adventure Ask Becki at Trailblazer Wellness to customize an at home, online personal training program for your upcoming adventure using whatever equipment you already have! You'll get phone consultations, instruction videos and a plan to give you the best chance of success. Becki offers a FREE initial phone consultation to see if you are a good fit. AND she offers ATA listeners a 10% discount!
Buy Me a Beer Want to support the program? You can always buy me a coffee or beer - thanks!
Amazon Kit's Picks Please use my Amazon link to access your Amazon account. Even if you don't purchase any of my recommendations, I get credit for anything you DO purchase - at no additional cost to you, you'll be helping to support the show and keeping it AD FREE:)
SUBSCRIBE to the Adventure Travel Show (the "How to's of adventure travel)
SUBSCRIBE to Active Travel Adventures (fantastic adventure destinations)
Join the Active Travel Adventures Facebook Group
Follow ATA on Twitter
Follow ATA on Instagram
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(C) Active Travel Adventures, LLC - All Rights Reserved
Guided Costa Rica Camino with Homestays and Daily Luggage Transfer
PART I: Join us as we discuss the new 175 mile/280 km Costa Rica Camino where, over 16 days, you walk from the Caribbean to the Pacific Ocean, across the entire country (indeed the continent and over the continental divide!). You'l…Guided Costa Rica Camino with Homestays and Daily Luggage Transfer
PART I: Join us as we discuss the new 175 mile/280 km Costa Rica Camino where, over 16 days, you walk from the Caribbean to the Pacific Ocean, across the entire country (indeed the continent and over the continental divide!). You'll experience an array of ecosystems and see wildlife and fauna in one of the most biodiverse regions of the world.
The hike is fully guided and includes all meals and daily luggage transfer. When I went, I did a combination of small lodges and camping. Our guest Laurie and her husband opted for a private tour for the two of them and they stayed in homestays, for a completely different experience than the one I covered last year.
Less than 1000 hikers have completed the Costa Rica Camino as of this recording! Learn all about it on the show and on the website and Travel Planner. I recommend going with my affiliate, UrriTrek. Use Promo Code ATA100 to save $100 on your full Costa Rica Camino.
COMPLETE SHOW NOTES See important links for planning your adventure, photos, videos and more cool info about today's show.
Get FREE Travel Planners for ATA adventures (and each month you will get an email from Kit with links to all future Travel Planners (no spam promise!). Get the monthly newsletter here.
CONTACT KIT
Resources
Promo Codes and Recommended Tour Companies
Travel Insurance: Quickly and easily compare rates and policies from different companies - no need to give any identifying information unless you decide to buy! The best way to find the right policy for your adventures.
Train For Your Adventure Ask Becki at Trailblazer Wellness to customize an at home, online personal training program for your upcoming adventure using whatever equipment you already have! You'll get phone consultations, instruction videos and a plan to give you the best chance of success. Becki offers a FREE initial phone consultation to see if you are a good fit. AND she offers ATA listeners a 10% discount!
Buy Me a Beer Want to support the program? You can always buy me a coffee or beer - thanks!
Amazon Kit's Picks Please use my Amazon link to access your Amazon account. Even if you don't purchase any of my recommendations, I get credit for anything you DO purchase - at no additional cost to you, you'll be helping to support the show and keeping it AD FREE:)
SUBSCRIBE to the Adventure Travel Show (the "How to's of adventure travel)
SUBSCRIBE to Active Travel Adventures (fantastic adventure destinations)
Join the Active Travel Adventures Facebook Group
Follow ATA on Twitter
Follow ATA on Instagram
Follow ATA on Pinterest
(C) Active Travel Adventures, LLC - All Rights Reserved
