Hawaii has become a de-facto vacation destination for North Americans, the mere mention of its name enough to conjure up images of luaus, leis, and lazy beach days. For most people, the 50th State is the definition of an island paradise, the ideal place for family trips or honeymoons. But for many, the costs associated with Hawaii can be prohibitive, and its promise of unfettered relaxation will always remain a dream.
So what can the frugal traveler do? Believe it or not, there are alternatives to Hawaii that are closer, well-developed, and more affordable. One such place is Costa Rica, one of Central America’s tourist hotspots. What this small republic, with coasts on both the Pacific and Caribbean, can offer is all of the attractions of Hawaii at a fraction of the cost. There are lush rain forests, sparkling beaches, colonial Spanish cities, world-class surfing spots, and friendly locals, not to mention the delicious food. Before planning your next vacation, consider what it is you’re looking for and how Costa Rica can meet those needs.
A Costa Rica Vacation is Ideal for…
Hawaii has its obvious advantages, one being that English is the main language. But even though everyone in Costa Rica speaks Spanish, anyone associated with the tourism industry will be able to speak some English. In more urban areas, English is very common. While Costa Rica may not be ideal for travelers with young children, groups of single adults or young couples will find it very appealing. The country is perfect for a destination wedding, spring break trip, or Christmas holiday. And for the budget-conscious traveler, who is most likely young and willing to forgo some of standard luxuries of a place like Hawaii, Costa Rica offers unparalleled value. Your hotel might not have ice-cold air conditioning, but just think of every dollar saved as one more to be spent on enjoying all there is to see.
Getting To Costa Rica: Fly into San Jose
Nestled between Nicaragua and Panama, Costa Rica is one of the last stops before reaching South America, and is by far the safest country in Central America. The capital, San Jose, is home to a major international airport. Daily flights arrive from Miami, Dallas, and numerous other locations in North America. For a few hundred dollars, travelers can take a two or three hour flight from the southern United States and be transported to a new world. Compared with flying to Hawaii, Costa Rica is closer and costs far less.
Places to Stay in Costa Rica
If you want to avoid the over-populated, Disneyworld feel of the Hawaiian resort hotel, Costa Rica probably has a place for you. In San Jose, high-class hotels dot the outskirts of the capital. On the coasts, beach bungalows and ocean-front hotels are often run by locals and not big corporations. Best of all, places to stay are very affordable. A beach bungalow for four can run you less than $50 a night. That won’t even get you four cocktails in Honolulu.
Click beach bungalows in Mal Pais, Costa Rica.
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