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Nature Retreat in Tropical Costa Rica
March 01 - 07th 2008, 6 nights 7 days

Enjoy exuberant tropical gardens, 850 species of resident birds, active volcanoes, rain forests, welcoming people in the safe and peaceful democracy of Costa Rica. We will stay in comfortable eco lodges and small distinctive hotels, most of which have pools, spa services and places to practice yoga. Our small group (up to 13 people) will have a driver and a bi-lingual naturalist guide who will introduce us to the natural and cultural treasures of this beautiful country. The 4 day optional extension is to Nosara Beach on the Pacific Coast. You will hear the waves lapping when you walk through the garden to your room.

Daily Itinerary

Day 01, Mar 01: Welcome to Costa Rica

You will be welcomed at the international airport by our guide and given a private transfer to the Trapp Family Country Inn. This small colonial style hotel with family hospitality is surrounded by gardens with centenary fig trees. From the private balcony of your room or by the pool, you will enjoy nature and relax with the musical sound of birds...an oasis right outside the city.

Overnight at Trapp Family Country Inn
Meals included: welcome dinner with orientation to the program

Day 02, Mar 02: San Jose

Breakfast at the hotel, and then short morning tour of the capital city of San Jose. We will drive thru residential and downtown areas, colorful markets and see the fantastic National Theatre built in the late eighteen hundreds and visit that or The Gold Museum. . Mid-morning visit to the Botanical Orchid Garden, a place to enjoy and learn more about these beautiful plants which are prolific all over the country, blooming best in March. By visiting this ecological refuge, you will help to preserve the lab project where they reproduce different species and hybrids. Lunch is served here and rest of the day is at leisure.

Overnight at Trapp Family Country Inn
Meals included: breakfast - lunch - dinner

Day 03, Mar 03: San Jose - Arenal

Breakfast at the hotel. Then a half-day visit to the Else Kientzle Botanical Garden. It is home to over 2,000 different plants from around the world. Hike about 2 kilometers (1.3 miles) of footpaths, as you marvel at the Botanical Garden's collections and designs. Learn more about plants, using the garden as an open classroom. Around each turn you will encounter a new scene of colors and textures of the plants and trees with birds and butterflies. Lunch is at a country restaurant en route to Arenal.

We will stay in the new Arenal Springs Resort Hotel which has Colonial style deluxe cabins, all offering unobstructed views of the Arenal Volcano. The volcano displays almost constant eruptions that are a true show of spectacular nature. The cabins have all the amenities you would expect from a fine resort: vaulted ceilings, air conditioning, spacious bathroom with garden shower, private covered porch with traditional leather rocking chairs. There are a swimming pool and spa services. The property has private horse stables, hiking and horseback riding trails available to guests as an optional activity.

Overnight at Arenal Springs Resort
Meals included: breakfast - lunch - dinner

Day 04, Mar 04: Arenal

Breakfast at the hotel, then enjoy a morning visit to the Hanging Bridges, an exciting eco project of eight fixed bridges, ranging in length between 8 and 22 meters, and six hanging bridges, built with the latest techniques and designed with an eye for both beauty and safety. The safety mesh and suspension cables are all galvanized steel. The entire project was designed to blend with the natural environment, leaving the forest virtually intact. The trails, covering a distance of about 3.1 kilometers, are right inside the forest and easy to walk on. As you walk with our local guide, you will appreciate the great diversity of flowers and wildlife typical of the rain forest.

By the end of the afternoon, you will look forward to the Hidalgo Family Hot Springs. This exclusive retreat provides a relaxing respite in natural springs heated by Arenal Volcano. Family owned and operated, the springs are surrounded by tropical foliage and set near an authentic ranch house complete with Costa Rican curiosities, antiques and farming equipment. The four pools are landscaped with large, smooth river rock taken from the area and are large enough to offer plenty of room to spread out and find a private corner to relax among peaceful environs. The hot springs are not open to the public.

Overnight at Arenal Springs Resort
Meals included: breakfast - lunch - dinner

Day 05, Mar 05: Arenal

The Caño Negro Wildlife Refuge and the Rio Frío are biological areas considered to be one of the richest in biological diversity in Costa Rica. Here you'll find a great variety of resident and migratory birds plus three different species of monkeys. There are also iguanas, sloths, turtles and caymans. All "Nature Lovers" go for 2 ½ hour floating safari through Tropical Rain Forest and pastures until we arrive at the marsh. It is possible to see hundreds of resident birds, especially during the dry season. There are Anhinga or Snake-bird, Roseate Spoonbill; it is possible to see little groups of this bird eating by the river. Wood Storks, the Jabiru (the largest bird in Central America and very endangered), and the Olivaceous Cormorant, the most popular bird in the refuge. Caño Negro has the largest colony of Cormorants in Costa Rica. Along the river we can see howler monkeys, spider monkeys, white-faced monkeys, plus the three-toed sloth and some reptiles like caimans, Jesus Christ lizard and turtles.

Overnight at Arenal Springs Resort
Meals included: breakfast - lunch - dinner

Day 06, Mar 06 Arenal - San Jose

After breakfast at the hotel, mid-morning land transfer to San Jose. Stop en route at the Nectandra Cloud Forest Garden. This is the centerpiece of 104-hectares of primary and secondary forest. Most of the plants featured in the developed gardens are from the preserve and its immediate surroundings. Some of the plants in the design are included as pure aesthetic elements, others for their importance in medicinal, indigenous and cultural uses. Most trails follow well-worn trails of animals and are easy to negotiate. To enhance the enjoyment of animals and are easy to negotiate. To enhance the enjoyment of visitors and to minimize the impact upon the forest, the number of visitors permitted entry each day is limited. Naturalist guides will devote their full attention to our small group. The Galleria features exhibits and objects from the cloud forests. Rest of the day at leisure.

We stay at the Corteza Amarilla Art Lodge and Spa which is a new and unique hacienda in San Jose. Its architecture combines Art Nouveau, Victorian Costa Rica, Art Deco and Oriental influences. The small hotel, formerly a private residence of the owner, is set in a comfortable and tranquil garden setting. The different flavors of fusion cuisine with local ingredients offer a unique gourmet experience with warm and friendly service. The full service spa offers "anti stress natural treatments with a holistic wellness approach". You will return home feeling your best. Farewell dinner to share experiences.

Overnight at Corteza Amarilla Art Lodge and Spa
Meals included: breakfast - lunch - dinner

Day 07: Mar 7 Good-bye Costa Rica for some, Optional Extension to the beach for others

Breakfast at the hotel, then transfer to Juan Santamaria International Airport, where you will be dropped off to catch your flights back home. Along with the luggage, you'll be taking home memories of the excellent Costa Rica nature retreat!

While this itinerary presents the trip as planned, actual details may vary due to weather, special events, unforeseen circumstances, or new and better options that become available. We always strive to optimize the tour and your vacation experience.

Optional Beach Extension, Nosara on the Pacific Coast
March 07 - 10th 2008, 3 nights 4 days

The laid back village of Nosara on the Nicoya Peninsula is known for its quiet atmosphere, gorgeous white sand beaches with dazzling sunsets. The nearly deserted, unspoiled beaches attract people who want a quiet time with nature, also beach surfers from around the world. The roads are still dirt and there is a notable lack of development, the feel of old Costa Rica. Peggy Connors, landscape designer and horticulturist, will accompany the group. This unscheduled time in Nosara is left free so you can enjoy at your leisure walking on the beach, yoga classes or actively participate in optional activities such as kayaking, or mangrove tours which can be arranged by our hosts at Harmony Hotel. We can plan on reliably sunny weather and warm Pacific waters.

Daily Itinerary

Day 07: San Jose - Nosara

After an early breakfast at the hotel you will be transferred to the local airport to take a pre-scheduled domestic flight to Nosara beach. Land transfer from the local airstrip to the Harmony Hotel.

High standards of sustainability and environmental friendliness meet with the creature comforts of low-key beach life at this lovely little hotel. You can hear the sounds of the inviting waves of the Pacific Ocean on your walk through the garden to your room. There is a dining room and cafe, both inside/outside, that serve delicious meals of organic fish, vegetables and fruits. Our hosts will assist in scheduling any optional activities and also give directions to the Yoga Institute at Nosara which is a 15-20 minute walk; transportation is available. The day is at leisure.

Overnight at Harmony Hotel
Meals included: breakfast

Day 08 and 09: Nosara

Breakfast at the Hotel. Day at leisure. Yoga can be practiced by yourself or in optional pre-scheduled classes. Walk the beach or participate in optional activities.

Overnight at Harmony Hotel
Meals included: breakfast

Day 10: Nosara - San Jose

After breakfast at the hotel you will be transferred to the local airstrip to take a pre-scheduled domestic flight to San Jose. Land transfer from local airport to the hotel. Rest of the day is at leisure.

Overnight at Corteza Amarilla Art Lodge & Spa
Meals included: breakfast

Day 11: Good-bye Costa Rica

After breakfast at the hotel you will be transferred to Juan Santamaria International Airport, where you are dropped off at to catch your flights back home. Along with the luggage, you'll be taking home memories of the excellent Costa Rica holistic program!

While this itinerary presents the trip as planned, actual details may vary due to weather, special events, unforeseen circumstances, or new and better options that become available. We always strive to optimize the tour and your vacation experience.

Pricing

Nature Retreat Mar 1-7: $1990.00 p.p. double occupancy. Land only

Single room supplement: $480.00 An effort will be made to find a room mate, if one is desired and then no single supplement will be charged.

Deposit of $500.00 will hold your space. Total payment will be due 45 days before departure, Jan 19, 2008.

Prices include:

• Airport meet & greet. Transport to and from airport
• Driver and his expenses from day 1 to day 6
• Bilingual Naturalist guide and his/her expenses from day 2 to day 6
• 2 NT at Trapp Family Country Inn, Standard room
• 3 NT at Arenal Springs, Junior Suite room
• 1 NT at Corteza Amarilla Art Lodge and Spa, Junior Suite room
• Meals included: 17 (6 breakfasts, 5 lunches and 6 dinners)
• Taxes on lodging (16.39%) and meals (23%) included in this program
• Mini Tour of San Jose with visit to the National Theatre or Gold Museum
• Entrance fee and visit to the Botanical Orchid Garden
• Entrance fee and visit to Else Kientzle Botanical Garden
• Entrance fee and visit to Nectandra Cloud Forest Garden
• Entrance fee and visit to Arenal Hanging Bridges
• Entrance fee and visit to Hidalgo Hot Springs
• Full day private tour to Caño Negro Biological Reserve, floating safari
• Local nature guides at above facilities
• Full operational support services by Horizontes Nature Tours
• Radio communication and first aid kit with the motor coach
• Cooler with ice, water and refreshments in the motor coach
• First aid kit

Prices do not include:

• Personal expenses such as laundry, spa services, liquor, phone calls
• Alcoholic beverages of any kind
• Airport departure tax (currently US $26.00 per person)
• Meals, snacks and others not specified
• Tips or gratuities for maids, bellboys, and all local guides while in the program
• Tips or gratuities for the Horizontes' guide and driver
• International air fare

Nosara Beach Optional Extension Mar 7-11: $875.00 p.p. double occupancy.

Single supplement: $425.00. These prices include internal air flights.

A deposit of $300.00 will hold your space. Total payment for the extension will be due in our office 75 days before departure date, Dec 20, 2007.

Prices include:

• Land transfer to/from the San Jose local airport
• Land transfer to/from Nosara local airstrip
• Round trip regular pre-scheduled domestic flight San Jose - Nosara
• 2 NT at Harmony Hotel, one-bedroom bungalows
• 1 NT at Corteza Amarilla Art Lodge and Spa, Junior Suite room
• Meals included: 4 breakfasts
• Taxes on lodging (16.39%) and meals (23%) included in this program
• Full operational support services by Horizontes Nature Tours

Prices do not include:

• Personal expenses such as laundry, spa services, liquor, phone calls
• Alcoholic beverages of any kind
• Airport departure tax (currently US $26.00 per person)
• Meals, snacks and others not specified
• Tips or gratuities for maids, bellboys, and all local guides while in the program

We hope you can join us on this very special adventure to spectacular Costa Rica. We are sure it will be PURA VIDA! For more information, please call our office or email us.

Warm regards,
Peggy Connors, President
Costa Rica Naturally!

Additional Notes

PHYSICAL FITNESS: All participants should be in good physical condition and be able to walk on uneven terrain. All of the places we stay have comfortable places where one can relax instead of taking a scheduled hike. Please call our office if concerned about physical capabilities and/or consult your personal physician for a professional opinion.

WEATHER in March is sunny and dry, with temperatures in the seventies in the Central Valley, warmer and somewhat humid at the coast, and cooler at night.

ENGLISH is widely spoken by the people who are warm and hospitable in this safe democracy. All the guides speak fluent English (and most are college educated).

HIKES & ACTIVITIES are optional. If you feel like taking a siesta in the hammock or swimming in the pool, be our guest…this is your vacation. If you want more activity, you can take early morning or late day hikes.

SHOPPING for local treasures: All of our lodges and hotels have nice gift shops with an array of local crafts and hand made objects for presents and mementos. Jewelry, wooden pieces, painted folk art, banana paper products, coffee as well as tee shirts are readily available.

COMFORT is the operative word on our journey. From our roomy air conditioned van, driven by an experienced driver, to the spotless hotels and rooms all with hot running water, private baths, special amenities, to the total handling of your luggage. We want your journey to be as hassle-free and relaxing as possible.

ECO TOURISM: We consider ourselves eco tourists and environmentalists. We take our responsibilities to the planet and Costa Rica very seriously and plan sustainable travel. We stay at places that have good conservation values and are operated by Costa Ricans. As a respect for the land, we take small groups…never more than 12 people.

Your American guide Peggy Connors has been principal of Connors Landscape Design, Inc. in Duxbury, MA, for twenty-eight years. She is co-founder and past president of APLD, Association of Professional Landscape Designers, and naturalist with a special interest in tropical plants. A Member of many environmental and art organizations, she founded Costa Rica Naturally! in 1993 to introduce people to the natural beauty and spectacular wonders of Costa Rica and its friendly people. We hope you will join us in our fifteenth year of nature adventures to Costa Rica.

If these dates in March are not convenient for you, we can plan a custom trip for you and your small group.

Questions? Feel free to call us in Duxbury at 781-934-5200 or toll free at 800-230-3826.

781-934-5200   800-230-3826   Email: info@costaricanaturally.com    Fax: 781-934-8134
P.O. Box G, Duxbury, MA 02331

A Program of Connors Landscape Design, Inc.

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