Natasia, March 2019

Not sure where to begin, but the vacation was amazing!
First of all our guide, Jose!!! He was just wonderful. Knowledgable,
patient, and fun. Seemed as excited as we were by the incredible
landscape and animals and made great suggestions to make sure
we saw as much as possible without over taxing the kiddos.
Had a brand new 10+ passenger van that made
the long rough rides up the mountains quite tolerable. Found us
a doctor at 6am when the little one was up all night with a terrible
fever and ear infection. And didn’t bat an eye when she threw up
in the brand new van (we had a good laugh at my husband catching
most of it in his hands). Ahh travel with littles!
Toucan rescue ranch was a rough 1 hour ride from hotel Buena Vista after flying
all day-
but once we got there it was worth it. Guide was great and very knowledgeable
and the kids got to get very close to baby sloths. Met the lady that runs the
place and she even gave us a little sneak peak at some newborns. I was happy
to know that they don’t let you touch them and make every effort to rehabilitate
the vast number of animals they care for.

Hotel Buena Vista was perfect. The view from the room was spectacular and
the food was great. Staff went beyond expectations. Had a little nature path and
hammocks that the whole family enjoyed.
Jose picked us up and we made the long trip to Arenal. Hotel Silencio De Campo
was probably my favorite. Small but perfectly appointed. The volcanic pools are
so luxurious and we spent hours in them (i.e. the ear infection lol). The little farm
was a nice addition for kids to interact with animals. The view of the volcano magical.
My oldest daughter and I enjoyed the spa twice-once each evening. Had outdoor facials in
a gorgeous cabana set among the forest and chirping birds.
Had breakfast and dinner at hotel restaurant and drinks/snacks at hot spring pool area. All were
delicious.

Jose took us for a hike up the side of Arenal. Perfect 2 hour hike and not so strenuous
that kids complained (I carried 4 year old 1/2 the time) but hard enough that it was fun for adults.
Beautiful views at the top.
Went to a little nature preserve after that was very fun. Saw some tiny red frogs, a cayman,
and may birds and butterflies.

The boat ride to Monteverde was fun and had beautiful views. Ride up the mountain was
a little daunting for my husband and littlest one but me and the two older kids loved looking
out the window at the majestic hills and valleys.

Hotel at Monteverde was basic as expected but the staff was such a joy [Monteverde Villas Lodge]. The neighbor’s dog kept the kids entertained when we were relaxing and there were 2 small areas of open grass
that ended up being great for down time play.
Downtown was great. Ate some good food (especially the pizza place Jose took us to).
Had a blast on the walking bridges and even got close to a Quetzal that my 13 year old found.
Jose had been trying so hard to find one for me and we all had a good laugh that Addi found
it first. It flew right over our heads which Jose said is rare.
Me and 13 year old went zip lining with Adventure and it was very scary and very fun.

Long trip to the beach as little one wasn’t feeling well but despite getting sick she slept most
of the way. Sad to say goodbye to Jose-feel like we have made a new friend!
Happy to be in one place for a few days.

WOW! our house at the last hotel [Casa Quinta at Costa Verde, Manuel Antonio]. Pictures don’t do it justice. 3 bathrooms/5 beds and one
attached room we didn’t even use. This place was magical. Phenomenal views from the
massive front porch (filled with rockers and fans). And the pool being right in front but
downs some steps gave us privacy and convenience.
Only down side of this place was walk to beach but honestly it was so wonderful at the hotel
I didn’t even mind. We ended up walking to the beach but getting a cab back (bc its up hill and
we were worn out form swimming all day). Cabs were always lined up at beach exit so we didn’t
have to wait around. There is also a public bus you can take.
We saw scarlet macaws, 3 types of monkeys, lizards, agouti and a sloth all from our house!!!!

Needless to say this trip exceeded expectations. It was hands down the best vacation I have
ever been on.
Thank you so much for all the help!
I’ve already given your name to several friends.

At Toucan Rescue Ranch: