Costa Rica

For our annual international trip, Troy and I chose to visit Costa Rica in 2012.  Because I was able to score a ridiculously low rate at the all-inclusive Papagayo Resort, we opted to stay at that hotel for the whole seven days, and do four day trips out to see the sights. 

 Taking a boat ride across Arenal Lake to hike along the volcano.

After visiting beaches in California, northern Florida, the Florida keys, Oahu, Kauai, Mexico, Spain, Sicily, and Monaco, Troy and I both agree Cost Rica's were the most beautiful. This above picture is from one of the days we decided to stay "local" and not drive. We grabbed a sea kayak and went for an adventure through the gulf. It was so fun!

Of course you have to go ziplining while in Costa Rica.

Spotting crocs in the Palo Verde National Park.

One of our adventures was a 14-hour long rain forest exploration followed by soaking in the hot springs.

Discovering the local trails.

Looking out over the Papagayo Gulf.

Visiting an old Nicaraguan settlement.

Troy and I were a little nervous the all-inclusive resort setting would appeal mostly to retiree couples. We were so happy to find out it was quite the opposite. On the days we decided not to drive, we snorkeled, kayaked, and jet skied. We met up with other young couples to go mountain biking, hiking, trail running, and jumped into some beach soccer and volleyball games. And of course we still found time to lounge in a poolside chair with a good book. :)

By the time our week was coming to a close, Troy and I had had the best vacation ever. I'm not saying we haven't loved the other places we've visited--we've never had a bad vacation, but Costa Rica was by far our favorite. We weren't even on the plane to leave yet before Troy was checking hotel availability for us to come visit again. :) I'm sure it's safe to say Costa Rica is place we'll visit again very soon.