Our trip to Costa Rica in February 2025 was ...
Costa Rica
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Feb 5 - Feb 19, 2025
Our trip to Costa Rica in February 2025 was preceded by months of planning. Throughout that process, Olman of Amazilia Travel, the partner of kimkim in San Jose, was incredibly helpful in suggesting an itinerary and in fine-tuning it in response to our evolving needs and priorities. The result was a wonderful vacation, sometimes as part of a group, sometimes self-driving, that exceeded our already high expectations.
Olman took care of airport pick-up, car hire, accommodation, and various outings -- in short, of all the challenges and uncertainties of travelling in a country unfamiliar to us. We were provided with detailed information about each step in the itinerary, and every thing unfolded according to plan -- the bus connections, the rental car pick up, the route suggestions, the accommodation, the tour rendezvous. And the tour guides we had ranged from the very good to the outstanding.
We were able to add a number of outings of our own as our trip progressed, a task made easier by the fact that we had such a solid basic plan in place and by additional information provided in our kimkim itinerary file.
During our travels, Olman's colleague Graciela was our contact in case of need. In fact, we only had to contact her once when the Google map reference provided by the place we were about to visit led us slightly astray. The problem was quickly remedied.
This was among the most satisfying and enjoyable vacations of our lives. Olman and his colleagues were indispensable in making it so.
Hotel Reviews
A convenient and comfortable stopover in San Jose. Within walking distance of the downtown core.
This hotel is beautifully situated on the waterfront and surrounded by dense forest. The gardens are lovely and home to Howler Monkeys and a variety of birds. Our room was comfortable and situated quite deep in the forest. Meals in the communal area were highly sociable, and the waterfront bar is delightful. Added attractions were the adjoining short forest trail and access to the spa and massage facilities at the neighbouring lodge. We thoroughly enjoyed our visit.
This is a chain hotel, and it lives up to expectations. It is comfortable and conveniently located near the airport and car rental offices. The staff were very helpful and the evening meal a pleasant surprise. A bag breakfast is also available. The main advantage of the hotel is proximity to the airport and a regular shuttle service. This is especially convenient when one has an early morning outbound flight.
This is a small family-run hotel, comfortable and homely rather than fancy. Breakfast is provided and there are several restaurants within walking distance for other meals. The staff are very friendly and the Capuchin monkey viewing second to none. We had a most pleasant stay.
Activity Reviews
The Finca Sura Farm Tour was truly a highlight of our trip. We had the pleasure of being guided by one of the family members, a younger son, which made the experience intimate and enlightening. The small group setting allowed us to engage and share ideas effortlessly, making the tour not just informative but also highly satisfying. The farm, being family-run and organic, added an authentic touch to the experience. Highly recommended for those looking to connect with the local culture and learn more about organic farming in Costa Rica.
This trip is more than getting from A to B. The route takes one over mountains and through forest and ultimately banana and pineapple plantations. Our bilingual guide Fernando provided us with a wealth of information along the way, and did an excellent job in gently shepherding us when we stopped for breakfast, transferred into boats, and checked in at our destination hotel.
The bird-watching boat ride and short jungle walk were rewarding and thoroughly enjoyable, not least thanks to our guide Fernando‘s enthusiasm, experience and enthusiasm.
We were blessed with sightings of sloths and innumerable birds, including the elusive quetzal. Our guide Jose was highly professional and engaging
Hello Peter!
Thank you for your thoughtful and kind message! It truly means a lot to hear that your trip exceeded expectations and that our team could help make it a smooth and memorable experience. It was a pleasure assisting you, and I’m so glad you had such a wonderful time in Costa Rica!
Wishing you many more amazing adventures ahead, and I’d love to help if you ever decide to return!
Best regards,
Olman & the Amazilia Travel Team