by The JourneyLast updated:: 5:00 AM ET, Fri December 9, 2016 GOGO Worldwide Vacations understands the omnipresent Costa Rican greeting/blessing/philosophy "pura vida." The literal translation is "pure life," but the phrase has a more expansive meaning. As the tour operator explains, it "is the belief that life is meant to be lived to the fullest in the purest of ways - peacefully and respectfully with a profound love for family, nature, and friends both old and new."
So in the spirit of "pura vida," GOGO revealed Costa Rica's top locales, places to stay and things to do in a recent blog.
Guanacaste
A northwestern province in Costa Rica, Guancaste has an extensive coastline filled with beaches and marinas and accommodates sunbathers, surfers and sport fisherman. Remnants of the ancient, indigenous Chorotega tribe can also be seen. GOGO recommends a stay at the The Westin Golf Resort & Spa, Playa Conchal and a visit to the Canon de La Vieja Adrenaline eco-park - a place to raft, rappel, zip line and ride horses.
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Arenal and Monteverde
These areas may be in close proximity on a map, but as GOGO says, "they're worlds apart in distance and atmosphere." Arenal and Monteverde, are both great for nature immersion at the heart of the nation. Arenal has a namesake volcano and offers hiking and hot springs, while Monteverde lets visitors walk among the treetops of a rainforest. Tabacon Grand Spa Thermal Resort is GOGO's accommodation recommendation, with a tour of the above natural wonders as a crucial activity.
San Jose
History, culture and art combine in Costa Rica's capital. Galleries, restaurants and boutiques are set within architecturally striking colonial mansions. Mingle with locals at Saturday farmers markets, the Parque La Sabana and for dance-friendly live music. GOGO recommends a stay at Real InterContinental Costa Rica and a walk through the city for a true "pura vida" experience.
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