Hey there! I have been on an adventure – literally and crossed a destination off of my bucket list. Costa Rica! I booked on an impulse and was able to get a great deal on the wrap-around weekend trip.

We flew into Liberia which was about 45 minutes from our resort, Riu Palace. Riu offered transportation for a fee, and our group actually was all on the same flight, so we didn’t wait much once we all exited. 

We arrived a few hours before check-in, but they allowed us to start using the facilities and dining. The first stop? The buffet and the bar of course. If you know me, you know I live off of chicken and rice, and it was SO GOOD. We stopped by the excursion desk and took a look through a few options, and ultimately landed on one that took us to Blue River for an afternoon of hot springs and waterfalls, but more on that coming soon. 

Our resort was just as your typical resorts are. Food and drinks around the clock, amazing views from the beachfront property, a balcony to sit and enjoy the sights and sunrises, and entertainment and games around the pool. There were specialty restaurants that were first come first serve every night and pretty hard to get into if you didn’t arrive early enough.

At night, there was a lineup of activities too, including a movie for the families, trivia, and an hour long dance show with music and costume changes. 

We spent the first and second day by the pool, taking in all the resort had to offer, spending money at the specialty shops getting souvenirs. We also stopped in a local coffee shop to try one of the country’s specialties. As someone who isn’t the biggest coffee drinker, I have to say I was impressed with the flavor not being too strong. 

One of the best parts was that the resort wasn’t too far from a Monkey Bar. Literally, the bar is right off of the beach and a forest area where there were literally monkeys swinging from the trees. One even came close to take fruit and water from some other curious travelers. 

Day three was full of adventure into the rainforest, with waterfalls, hot springs, and wild animals, but stay tuned for more there. 

Until next time…

– Jae Marie