The Travel Brats

After listening to and watching so many Costa Rica travel guides, I think my knowledge on this beautiful destination far exceeds all I should know, and because of that, we had an amazing trip. Traveling is not all it’s cracked up to be - it’s messy, uncomfortable at times, but ultimately, it’s so rewarding and helps me create memories that truly do last a lifetime.

Prior to meeting my boyfriend, I was the biggest advocate for solo-travel. It’s empowering and bold and makes me feel alive. Over the last two years, I’ve uncovered just how truly special it is to travel the world who brightens you up every single day. I had never truly had a travel partner before Jon, and it’s a whole new level of pure bliss, even if our bags get lost and we drive through a cloud forest. So, tune in for an adventure from lost luggage to frightening winding roads to 5-star resorts, we share it all. 

Things to Do in Costa Rica/ Requirements 

Fly from an international hub for direct flights, much better than taking a layover. Before leaving for Costa Rica, read about the travel requirements HERE. To abide by COVID-19 requirements, fill out this form 72 hours before your departure to CR.  

For example, FLL and MIA are great options if you are in south Florida because you have Spirit, American, Delta, and more. 

White water rafting with Arenal Rafting booked through Tripadvisor for less than $200 which includes pick up, transportation, lunch, safety gear, an amazing guide and team, and the whole entire experience, which is one for the books. Without a doubt, a must do while in Costa Rica. I know there are a lot of excursions to choose from, but if you are seeking an adrenaline rush and a memory that will last a lifetime, whitewater rafting is it. 

This was my first time whitewater rafting and it was considered Class 4. I was slightly nervous to be honest, but it was exhilarating and we didn’t even flip. Disclaimer, if you don’t feel comfortable or confident in your physical capacities, this might not be for you. 

There are a lot of options in and around La Fortuna, which make this location perfect to explore. One of the top rated things to do is ziplining through the rainforest or going ATVing so you can cover more land in a shorter period of time. We met an extremely nice couple who were our partners on the Arenal Rafting excursion and they raved about their hike up to Arenal. So if you are into hiking and exploring like that, you have tons of options on the volcano Arenal. 

While in Peru a few months back, Jon and I went to a chocolate museum and loved every second. So when we saw the signs for the “Choco Museo” in La Fortuna, we were so excited. That’s a great way to spend an hour or two. Before you leave La Fortuna, going to the Mistico Hanging Bridges is an absolute must. It had 6 hanging bridges and waterfalls on the trail. It had so many beautiful scenes; it took about 2 hours and please wear closed-toed shoes/biking boots, especially if it’s raining. Thank me later. You can make a reservation for Mistico Park or just show up and hope for the best. There were a lot of guided tours going on, but we went by ourselves and had an amazing time. 

La Fortuna felt both safe and unique, but it was great to stay a few minutes down the road from the action so it wasn’t loud and it was more intimate to enjoy the incredible views of the volcano Arenal. We stayed at Royal Corin, which is a 5 star hotel and every single room has a view of the volcano and the thermal heated spas. Yes, really the pools aren’t your typical inground pool… they are HOT SPRINGS. 

Royal Corin had three different restaurants, breakfast included a swim up bar, a gorgeous spa that checks all the boxes, and comfortable king beds. Without a doubt, the view was worth the price of admission and every single person who worked there was extremely kind and helpful. I know very little Spanish and I’m working to learn more, but the entire team spoke English and helped when a language barrier came up. Carry some cash, so you can tip when you stay where you do. 

Across the street from Royal Corin is the really famous Baldi Springs, which is also a hotel and there was a lot going on there. We stayed at the Royal Corin for 2 nights and 3 days and I wish we could have stayed there forever. 

La Fortuna is definitely geared toward tourists, and you will pay the price for those luxuries. The prices at restaurants and hotels/resorts were very comparable to being in an American city. Airbnb is also an amazing option for unique, beautifully curated homes and destination spots. Knowing that the drive from the airport in San Jose, CR to La Fortuna was challenging and very time consuming; we decided to stay at an Airbnb in Alajuela, so we were only 25 minutes from the airport.  

Inside the Royal Corin, there is a delectable restaurant that makes you feel like you are truly in an exotic, luxurious location and it’s called Lava Restaurante. Although I am a travel writer and blogger, I live in the moment and there are many times I catch myself saying “This is the best EVER.” Their steaks and chicken dishes were some for the books. 

In the town of La Fortuna, we created some of our favorite memories as it was raining and there was a beautiful church and park at the center of the action. The night began with getting margaritas and sushi boats at Kappa Sushi, which was really highly rated with a 4.5/5 on Tripadvisor. We ate outside and it was a very small spot. Lava Lounge is absolutely geared towards tourists as it has music blasting, great entertainment, and lively energy. We did not eat there, but others we met raved about it. We wrapped up the night with drinks at Nanku and asked for pisco sours and a local shot. 

Enjoy your trip - drive safe and make the most of your time in one of the most beautiful countries in the world. 

There are great airlines that fly to Costa Rica. For a pricey, more comfortable choice, American Airlines and JetBlue regularly fly and typically out of international hubs. So Miami is a convenient spot to get the most cost effective and direct flight. Spirit flies out of Fort Lauderdale, but that’s a story for another day. If you have flexibility on your schedule or aren’t sure which days to go yet, SkyScanner is the perfect resource to sway you to go on a more budget friendly week. Rental cars are attainable to get in Costa Rica, but they can be pricey and if you aren’t super comfortable with driving a manual transmission, get an automatic. The roads can be challenging, so the most comfortable driver should be the one behind the wheel. Most major rental car companies are there, and you get a shuttle to them from the airport and go from there. Enterprise and Budget were both reliable and we didn’t have any issues. If you are going from Los Suenos to La Fortuna, I recommend a 4x4 so pay the extra money. 

On this adventure, Jen and Mark stayed for almost two weeks, which allowed them to adventure along the Pacific Coast, fish, relax, travel to their next destinations, get situated again, go on a tour or two, visit the spa, and try excellent places to eat. Anywhere from 5 days to a month or two will get the job done, but once you are in Costa Rica, you’ll begin planning the next time for you to come back and stay longer. 

While staying on the Pacific Coast in Los Suenos, a beautiful spot to stay is the Los Suenos Marriott, especially if you are a BonVoy card member and earn/use points. Here’s more about the Marriott Bonvoy cards to see if that’s a good fit for you. This is a well-known destination for fishing and chartering a boat to catch big fish - just ask Mark about the huge fish he’s caught there. Plus when you catch fish you are able to keep, you can take it to a local restaurant, and they can falay it for you and your family. A highly recommended one is the Pelican, along the coast. 

Then it’s a long, heart racing drive from Los Suenos to the middle of the country, in the beloved La Fortuna. There are tons of highly rated places to stay while you’re there, but the unbeatable luxury choice is Nayara Springs

It’s truly the epitome of everything you’d want for an exotic getaway - privacy, your own villa, outside shower, pool, daily breakfast delivered, excellent service, and incredible views. It’s on the pricier point, but Jen says, “it’s worth every penny.” Even Travel and Leisure rated in the top 2 hotels in the world at one point. 

October 4th - Day 1

• Discover Rental Cars
• Voucher
• Driver's License
• Passport

• Voucher will be exchanged for ticket

October 5th – Day 2

• 303 km total (190miles)
• 
   

• Call and see if tour is operating +354.560.8800

• Arrive at Special Tours in Reykjavik Old Harbour

October 6th – Day 3

• Meeting 30 minutes prior to departure outside of hotel or meeting point
• Check pickup location with hotel in advance
• 
   

October 7th – Day 4

• Wear thermals underneath
• Voucher (also in Apple Wallet)
• Lasts 2.5 hours

October 8th – Day 5

Reykjavik Kitchen -$$-$$$

Here's the ultimate packing list for your Iceland Endeavors! 
 

• 5x underwear 
• 5x socks
• 1-2 pair jeans
• Sweatpants
• 2 shirts
• Sweatshirt
• Vest
• 2x beanies
• Puffy jacket
• Rain Jacket
• Rain Pants
• Gloves
• Waterproof casual boots
• Hiking boots
• Sandals/shoes you can wear to lagoon
• Thermal pants
• Thermal shirt
• Swimsuit
• Toothbrush
• Sunglasses
• Glasses
• Scarf
• Sleeping clothes (for bubble)
• 
   

• 5x underwear 
• 5x socks
• 1-2 pair jeans
• Sweatpants
• 2 shirts
• Sweatshirt
• Vest
• 2x beanies
• Puffy jacket
• Rain Jacket
• Rain Pants
• Gloves
• Waterproof casual boots
• Hiking boots
• Sandals/shoes you can wear to lagoon
• Thermal pants
• Thermal shirt
• Swimsuit
• Makeup remover
• Makeup
• Hair straightener
• Glasses
• Sunglasses
• Razor
• Retainer
• Bra
• Sports Bra
• Cami
• Sleeping clothes (for bubble)
• Scarf
   

• 2x outlet converters
• 2x phone chargers
• Camera 
• Camera battery charger
• Tripod
• 2x quick dry towel
• 2x water bottle
• Shampoo
• Conditioner
• Passport
• Foreign currency
• Eye masks
• Deodorant

As always, connect with us on social at @thetravelbrats and share your favorite moments with us. 

For more ways to leverage loyalty programs and miles, the Points Guy is a great resource for every budget and every traveler. 

Click above on TPG to see Credit Card travel valuations. 

Connect with us on our website at Thetravelbrats.com and follow us IG. 

Favorite episodes before Season 2 kicks off (in no particular order). Let us know if any of these were your favorite too. 

How Traveling Gives You Confidence, Listen HERE. 

SWFL Food Junkie Celebrates Hidden Gems and Supreme Eat, Listen HERE. 

Where To Stay For Fun Girl Summer, Listen HERE. 

The Ultimate Books to Read in Quarantine (or while traveling), Listen HERE. 

Day in the life of a New Yorker with Jared Pearlman, Listen HERE. 

More New York Episodes, Listen HERE.  

All Things Fort Myers By The Travel Brats, Listen HERE. 

All Things New Orleans and Mardi Gras, Listen HERE. 

All Things Luxury Chicago with Our Grandpa, Listen HERE.

All things outdoorsy adventures in boulder with Suzi, Listen HERE. 

All things Brews, Bayshore, and Tampa Bay, Listen HERE. 

HONORABLE MENTIONS WORTH LISTENING TO - 

Most memorable travel story with Danielle in Paris, Listen HERE. 

15 Most Romantic Spots for Valentines Day, Listen HERE. 

 One Time in Cancun ft @jennyfromtheboat, Listen HERE. 

For more content, videos, and guides, follow the Travel Brats on IG. 

5 Birthday Travel Destinations Episode - Listen here. 

Puerto Rico & El Yunque Rainforest Episode - Listen here. 

Key Largo Episode - Listen here. 

Best Travel Snacks - Listen here. 

The Ultimate EDM Playlist - Listen here. 

Asheville Travel Itinerary - Listen here. 

Nashville Must-Dos - Listen here. 

Fort Myers, FL Travel Guide - Listen here.

Storytelling for 4th of July in Colorado - Listen here.

As always, follow your favorite 

Travel Brats on IG 

and share what you want to hear in season 2. Thank you for tuning in - we LOVE you. 

The Travel Brats wish you a happy and healthy holiday season, and we look forward to seeing you in the New Year. To follow the Travel Brats, head to @thetravelbrats on IG! 

For the travel blogger and writer - they deserve a high quality laptop case to keep that precious cargo safe. You also can’t go wrong with a travel journal. To give them some great inspiration for their next adventure or story, travel magazine subscriptions are the way to go. Some of the best subscriptions include National GEO, Travel & Leisure, Artful Living, Wanderlust, Afar, and Global Traveler

For the avid flyer, there are top items everyone needs in their carry on - fun masks, eye shades, neck pillows, packable travel blanket, noise canceling headphones, word searches, foldable raincoat and of course, a travel wallet to fit and protect their passport. 

After so many travel adventures, a piece of luggage starts to give out. A new luggage set is the perfect, thoughtful gift for someone always on the go. Some reputable brands to look into are AWAY, IFly, and Beis. To go with the luggage set, you can get refillable travel sized toiletries and a hangable toiletry bag. 

 Loungewear for the airport is a must because you want to be comfy, but there’s also photo ops moments that mean you need cute and casual. Some great brands are Lululemon, and Calvin Klein. In terms of clothes, splurging on a quality pair of hiking boots might be the way to go. Before going to Machu Picchu and hiking around the Inca trail, I bought Colombia hiking boots and I am so happy I spent extra money to get a quality pair that will last years. Bass Pro Shops had a decent selection to choose from. 

If your person enjoys activities and going places more than material items, find a worthwhile voucher or certificate to do something fun. For example, you can buy flight vouchers or gift cards for Delta, Southwest, or American so they can have funds for their next travel adventure. 
Or if you know they’ve been wanting to go skydiving or get scuba diving certified, those would be amazing gifts. Another voucher that goes a long way is the Key West Express voucher that lasts for 2 years. 

One of the best things about traveling is coming home after an adventure away. A great gift to buy for travel lovers is photo albums and print out pictures of where they’ve explored. Shutterfly can meet all your personalized and picture needs. 

There’s options for everyone in the Travel Brats gift guide, but you can simply write a loving card and include a picture and that would be thoughtful enough. Enjoy the holidays coming up and purchase with love. 

Thank you for tuning in to the Travel Brats podcast. Head to IG @thetravelbrats for more tips!