After listening to and watching so many Costa Rica travel guides, I think my knowledge on this beautiful destination far exceeds all I should know, and because of that, we had an amazing trip. Traveling is not all it’s cracked up to be - it’s messy, uncomfortable at times, but ultimately, it’s so rewarding and helps me create memories that truly do last a lifetime.
Prior to meeting my boyfriend, I was the biggest advocate for solo-travel. It’s empowering and bold and makes me feel alive. Over the last two years, I’ve uncovered just how truly special it is to travel the world who brightens you up every single day. I had never truly had a travel partner before Jon, and it’s a whole new level of pure bliss, even if our bags get lost and we drive through a cloud forest. So, tune in for an adventure from lost luggage to frightening winding roads to 5-star resorts, we share it all.
Things to Do in Costa Rica/ Requirements
Fly from an international hub for direct flights, much better than taking a layover. Before leaving for Costa Rica, read about the travel requirements HERE. To abide by COVID-19 requirements, fill out this form 72 hours before your departure to CR.
Flight Information
For example, FLL and MIA are great options if you are in south Florida because you have Spirit, American, Delta, and more.
Excursions
White water rafting with Arenal Rafting booked through Tripadvisor for less than $200 which includes pick up, transportation, lunch, safety gear, an amazing guide and team, and the whole entire experience, which is one for the books. Without a doubt, a must do while in Costa Rica. I know there are a lot of excursions to choose from, but if you are seeking an adrenaline rush and a memory that will last a lifetime, whitewater rafting is it.
This was my first time whitewater rafting and it was considered Class 4. I was slightly nervous to be honest, but it was exhilarating and we didn’t even flip. Disclaimer, if you don’t feel comfortable or confident in your physical capacities, this might not be for you.
There are a lot of options in and around La Fortuna, which make this location perfect to explore. One of the top rated things to do is ziplining through the rainforest or going ATVing so you can cover more land in a shorter period of time. We met an extremely nice couple who were our partners on the Arenal Rafting excursion and they raved about their hike up to Arenal. So if you are into hiking and exploring like that, you have tons of options on the volcano Arenal.
While in Peru a few months back, Jon and I went to a chocolate museum and loved every second. So when we saw the signs for the “Choco Museo” in La Fortuna, we were so excited. That’s a great way to spend an hour or two. Before you leave La Fortuna, going to the Mistico Hanging Bridges is an absolute must. It had 6 hanging bridges and waterfalls on the trail. It had so many beautiful scenes; it took about 2 hours and please wear closed-toed shoes/biking boots, especially if it’s raining. Thank me later. You can make a reservation for Mistico Park or just show up and hope for the best. There were a lot of guided tours going on, but we went by ourselves and had an amazing time.
Where to Stay in La Fortuna
La Fortuna felt both safe and unique, but it was great to stay a few minutes down the road from the action so it wasn’t loud and it was more intimate to enjoy the incredible views of the volcano Arenal. We stayed at Royal Corin, which is a 5 star hotel and every single room has a view of the volcano and the thermal heated spas. Yes, really the pools aren’t your typical inground pool… they are HOT SPRINGS.
Royal Corin had three different restaurants, breakfast included a swim up bar, a gorgeous spa that checks all the boxes, and comfortable king beds. Without a doubt, the view was worth the price of admission and every single person who worked there was extremely kind and helpful. I know very little Spanish and I’m working to learn more, but the entire team spoke English and helped when a language barrier came up. Carry some cash, so you can tip when you stay where you do.
Across the street from Royal Corin is the really famous Baldi Springs, which is also a hotel and there was a lot going on there. We stayed at the Royal Corin for 2 nights and 3 days and I wish we could have stayed there forever.
La Fortuna is definitely geared toward tourists, and you will pay the price for those luxuries. The prices at restaurants and hotels/resorts were very comparable to being in an American city. Airbnb is also an amazing option for unique, beautifully curated homes and destination spots. Knowing that the drive from the airport in San Jose, CR to La Fortuna was challenging and very time consuming; we decided to stay at an Airbnb in Alajuela, so we were only 25 minutes from the airport.
Restaurants and Places to Eat
Inside the Royal Corin, there is a delectable restaurant that makes you feel like you are truly in an exotic, luxurious location and it’s called Lava Restaurante. Although I am a travel writer and blogger, I live in the moment and there are many times I catch myself saying “This is the best EVER.” Their steaks and chicken dishes were some for the books.
In the town of La Fortuna, we created some of our favorite memories as it was raining and there was a beautiful church and park at the center of the action. The night began with getting margaritas and sushi boats at Kappa Sushi, which was really highly rated with a 4.5/5 on Tripadvisor. We ate outside and it was a very small spot. Lava Lounge is absolutely geared towards tourists as it has music blasting, great entertainment, and lively energy. We did not eat there, but others we met raved about it. We wrapped up the night with drinks at Nanku and asked for pisco sours and a local shot.
Enjoy your trip - drive safe and make the most of your time in one of the most beautiful countries in the world.
