Costa Rica

La Parrilla de Maria Bonita in La Fortuna, Costa Rica

Complementary bean dip with chips, La Parrilla de Maria Bonita

When I read that La Parrilla de Maria Bonita was the number one rated TripAdvisor restaurant in all of La Fortuna, Costa Rica, I seriously had my doubts. Don’t get me wrong, TripAdvisor has great travel information and tips, but I have never been impressed with top-ranked restaurants for international destinations. For example, nothing against PaulyBee’s American Burger, but how on earth is it ranked number 3 out of all the amazing restaurants in Bangkok? Anyways, it was late at …

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18 things I learned on my first trip to Costa Rica

Arenal volcano on a sunny day, La Fortuna, Costa Rica

Costa Rica. After years of wanting to travel to this beautiful country, I finally made it. Before my trip, I read many online articles, reviews, tips, and complaints from past travelers to Costa Rica. From tipping, to car rentals, to driving, I read it all. Some good and some bad. I wasn’t sure exactly what to believe. Now that I have experienced a trip for myself, here are some things you should know if you plan to visit Cosa Rica. …

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Ocean views at Cafe Agua Azul in Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica

Tuna tostadas piled high with ahi tuna, avocado, and cream sauce

After hiking in Manuel Antonio National Park, I visited Cafe Agua Azul for drinks and food without knowing much about the place. From the road, the building looked like it hung off a cliff with just air, jungle, and ocean below. After I parked out front, I walked up the stairs into a beautiful open-air dining room. I was right. The views were amazing. This is why I decided to stop here, and I’m glad I did. If you ever …

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