When planning a trip to Central America, it’s important to find accommodation that suits your travel needs. Our Flightie Erin Burley, recently spent some time in beautiful Liberia, Costa Rica and shares her recommendations and reviews of seven different resorts in Liberia:
I was very excited to be given the opportunity to discover seven different all-inclusive resorts within Liberia, Costa Rica. I am absolutely fascinated by this country with all of the excursions it had to offer and a particular interest in the ability to explore three different ecosystems. Seasonally, the weather in Liberia is very warm with little to no rainfall making it an ideal destination to get a great tan. So needless to say, I packed some sunscreen and was on my way!
Liberia is the Capital of the Guanacaste Province and is fast becoming the new gateway to the sunny Guanacaste beaches. Over the past couple of years, it has become more and more popular with tourists, and only recently, a new international airport has opened up playing host to a variety of airline carriers. Although the city of Liberia is not a metropolis like San Jose or any of its surrounding cities, it is a small quiet city where a colonial atmosphere still exists. Due to Liberia’s new found popularity, there are plans to renovate the downtown area as well as an expansion of the pedestrian mall.
It’s very easy to keep your visit filled with “extreme” day-trips such as zip lining and hiking. You can even take a pleasant drive up to an active volcano where you can sit in the most beautiful hot springs. I immediately fell in love with everything from the great friends I made to the abundance of wildlife and the amazing history Liberia has to offer.
If you are someone who loves wild life and bird watching then the Palo Verda Excursion is for you. This amazing boating experience allows you to get up and close and personal with many kinds of birds as well as crocodiles, iguanas, and monkeys, along with many more fascinating animals.
If you are someone who loves relaxing and swimming through beautiful hot springs, then you have to take the drive up to the Arenal Volcano and Hot Springs at Tabacon. Especially nice when seen on a clear sunny day, I have never experienced a beautiful lush cloud forest anywhere! You will be amazed at the beauty of this place and not to mention how great it feels to sit under a warm flowing water fall. The interesting thing about the drive up to Tabacon is the ecosystem transition. From the start of your drive up, you can feel the hot, dry climate and once you reach the top, you can feel the humidity in the wet lush forest.
There is no shortage of options for everyone from families, to a group of friends and couples. Initially, I had stayed at the Allegro Papagayo Resort which caters to families looking for a relaxing holiday. This resort is a cost conscious option given that the accommodations are very basic but clean. However, I would not say that this resort would be the best option for people who have any walking restrictions as it is built on a steep hill. Walking to and from the beach and the restaurants are quite the hike but the resort does offer a shuttle that will assist you throughout the grounds.
An alternate family resort I would recommend is the Sol Villas Resort. Accommodations are beautifully spacious and clean and most rooms have a great view of the ocean off the balcony. I loved the feel of this resort as it was very welcoming and the staff was so warm. The family area has a pool and snack bar that is perfect for a day of relaxing and fun. This resort is also wheel chair accessible but note that you will have to take a shuttle to the beach.
Famous with surfers, you can always catch a wave at Tamarindo Beach. A great area of local shopping and dining, I would recommend the Barcelo Langosta Beach Resort, (conveniently located along this great stretch of beach). The Barcelo offers one a-la-carte restaurant but given it’s prime location, there are many dining options off of the resort to choose from. I would recommend this resort for those who want to explore beyond what the resort offers. There are also loft style suites available for groups who are always on the go!
Looking to celebrate your honeymoon or just escape with your significant other? Then the Playa Conchel or Occidental Grand Papagayo Resort is perfect for your vacation away. Playa Conchel Resort is a fun, luxurious trip for couples or business affairs alike. If I had to pick a favourite, the Playa Conchel Resort was definitely a top contender. It had so much to offer for dining, entertainment, and daily activities. If you are looking to hit the green and work on your swing, then this is a golfer’s paradise. The Occidental Grand Papagayo Resort is perfect for a quiet getaway. It caters to couples looking for an intimate atmosphere of pure relaxation while soaking up the sun.
Liberia is a beautiful destination offering various experiences for families and friends, couples, business associates, and golf aficionados. I am definitely going to be back there one day in the not-so-distant future!
Erin Burley is an International Travel Consultant at our Mill Woods location in Edmonton, Alberta and can be reached by e-mail or calling 1–877-430-3241.