We could not have been happier with our trip to Costa Rica arranged through Get To Costa Rica Tours. We had some hesitation about using an agency out of the U.S. but we thought we might get better guidance from an agency within Costa Rica. Through phone and email correspondence, our concerns diminished.
Felipe was our contact, providing us outstanding information, arrangements and services. We liked how we were able to customize our trip, and with Felipe’s advice, we were able to get the most out of our six- day stay. We knew certain adventures we wanted to do, we wanted to have some relaxing beach time and we wanted someone to drive us. We had a certain price range in mind and Felipe was able to put it all together.
The correspondence we received prior to the trip was very detailed and reassuring. Upon arrival in San Jose we were promptly met and escorted to our driver and guide, who to our surprise was Felipe himself! Felipe took us to our htoel and met us the next morning to take us to the Pacure River for our white water rafting trip. The river, scenery and rafting company were fantastic. (Be sure to purchase the photo CD…their pictures are amazing!) Felipe was there for us afterwards to take us to our accommodations at Hotel Arenal Manoa, several hours away. We had a villa with a spectacular view of the volcano. While there we took a zip line adventure, tropical rain forest hike and went to Tabacon Hot Springs and Spa, all prearranged by Felipe.
Felipe met us two days later to take us to our beach accommodations, Xandari by the Pacific. It was one of the nicest resorts we have ever been to-a gorgeous villa, adorned with beautiful artwork, looking out onto a secluded beach fringed with coconut palm trees and hammocks. While there, we booked a tour to Manuel Antonio and saw white- faced monkeys, sloths and beautiful beaches.
After two days, Felipe met us again to return us to San Jose and our flight home. We felt Felipe was more than a driver and guide. He was genuinely friendly and accommodating to all of our needs. What was special was that, not only was he informative about what we were going to see, but also gave us insight into Costa Rican history, politics, social issues and family life. Hearing about Costa Rica from a native added so much more to our trip.
A final thought and recommendation – having a driver makes things so much easier. The roads are not the best and are not well marked. Undoubtedly, we saved much time and stress, while being able to see and learn much more than we could have if we were driving. As to Felipe – we would not have imagined having a better driver, guide and by the end of our vacation…a friend.
Rob Kriegshaber
January 2010