In this episode, Jess, Pam, and Alex break down their recent spring break trips to Costa Rica—highlighting three unforgettable resorts, two different travel styles, and one shared love for how easy (and affordable!) this country is to explore with points and miles. 

Flights on Points

Alex and Jess both flew Southwest—Jess from Houston and Alex from Salt Lake City—and Pam chose United. Between Southwest Companion Passes, smart rebooking, and good timing, Jess got a great deal for round-trip flights for four people. Pam, always loyal to United for the elite-status perks, flew out of Denver and got a free upgrade to first class on the way home.

 

Where They Stayed: Andaz Papagayo, Rio Perdido, and Tabacón

• Andaz Peninsula Papagayo Resort (Hyatt Category 8): A luxury resort with monkeys, pools, and a new beach club you access by boat. Jess scored a Bay View Suite with a birthday upgrade, while Alex’s family enjoyed connecting rooms with a rollaway for the kids. 

• Rio Perdido (Hilton SLH): Jess took her family here for a more boutique, off-the-grid experience. Set in the rainforest with private bungalows, thermal rivers, and mud baths, Rio Perdido offered a quieter, more immersive vibe. 

• Tabacón Thermal Resort & Spa (Hilton SLH): Pam and Alex’s family stayed at this jungle escape near La Fortuna. Booking via Hilton points and free-night certificates, they enjoyed connecting rooms, views of the Arenal Volcano, and unlimited access to the hot springs.

  Rental Cars, Shuttles, and Driving Tips

The Squad breaks down everything you want to know about whether to rent a car or book a shuttle service in Costa Rica and how to decide which option is best for your trip. They even advise on what kind of vehicles to avoid renting and recommend a great woman-owned transportation service if you don't want to drive yourself. 

 

Activities: Adventures for All Ages

Alex’s crew went full-on jungle mode with:

• A zipline and rappelling canyon tour through Maquique Adventure
• A night walk with frog and snake sightings (not for the faint of heart!)
• Exploring La Fortuna 

Jess and Ella did a canyon adventure at Rio Perdido, complete with a pro photographer tagging along. Meanwhile, everyone raved about thermal pools and monkey spotting!

Whether you’re team luxury resort or jungle bungalow, this episode proves that Costa Rica is made for points travelers—and families. 

🎧 Listen now to hear every detail and decide which Costa Rica combo is right for your next adventure.

 

Links:

• https://www.maquiqueadventure.com
• Viator night walk: Night Walk Around The Arenal Volcano
• Maleku Tours: Maleku Tours - https://www.malekutours.com
• Pam’s Upgrade Template: How to Request a Hotel Room Upgrade​

Links For All Things Travel Mom Squad: stan.store/travelmomsquad

 

Episode Minute By Minute:

• 00:30 – Flights, airport tips, and how we booked on points
• 05:00 – Rental cars vs. shuttles
• 13:00 – Andaz Papagayo
• 33:00 – Rio Perdido
• 40:00 – Tabacón
• 53:00 – Activities: Ziplining, wildlife, and rainforest excursions
• 1:01:00 – Comparing all three resorts