Costa Rica: La Fortuna

We went to Costa Rica with my cousin and brother-in-law this December and it was definitely a trip to remember! I am going to split my post into 3 entries since we went to 3 different areas of Costa Rica. We landed in Liberia, Costa Rica after a long day of travel that started at 4am in Chicago, along with a layover in Texas. After a long customs line, we were greeted by our driver and some Imperial Beer (the local beer we drank the entire time we were in Costa Rica). We then began our 3+ hour journey to La Fortuna and our resort, Tabacon Thermal Resorts & Spa.

Our first stop on the drive about an hour away from our resort was a COFFEE STOP! We stopped at Cafe & Macadamia. Our first of many Costa Rican coffees – pura vida! (a common local saying that means “pure life”).

The sun set, and we were still about an hour away from the hotel. We were so thankful we decided to hire a driver at this point. All the roads in Costa Rica pretty much look the same and there were no street signs anywhere, but the drivers just knew where to go.

Our hotel was beautiful, absolutely breathtaking. On a clear day, we were able to see the Arenal Volcano from the hot springs. The naturally created thermal baths were very relaxing and warm! We would venture out in our hotel robes to enjoy the natural hot springs everyday.

We spent every morning drinking Costa Rican coffee and eating fresh fruit with a beautiful view. For lunch that day, we ventured out to a local place called Red Frog Coffee Roaster. It was one of our favorite places on the whole trip.

We were able to explore the town that afternoon and check out a bar and local pizza spot for dinner. Costa Rica was very big on pizza, but I think they were just catering to tourists.

The next morning, we were off to repel off waterfalls. We took a bus ride to the pick up point where a jeep picked us up and took us to the start point of the excursion. Little did we know, we were doing more than repelling. We were cannonballing into water, walking through rivers waist deep and zip-lining! It was too late to turn around, we were all in! The experience was unforgettable.

We also got an authentic home cooked Costa Rican meal after the excursion, which was well deserved. We were hungry after all that repelling! That evening, we went to a nice dinner at Don Rufino.

The next day, we decided to go on a sloth tour. We were able to see 4 sloths during our tour!

Later that afternoon we had spa dates at the hotel. Probably one of the most relaxing experiences I have ever had!

Our last evening was spent going to a chicken place called Pollo Fortuneno, a rotisserie chicken restaurant popular with locals. Then we ended the night eating gelato.

Our last morning in Arenal was spent exclusively at the beautiful resort. We woke up, and had our usual breakfast and walked around the resort. We then spent a few hours at the pool before we had to check out of the rooms and wait for our transport.