COSTA RICA, “THE JEWEL OF CENTRAL AMERICA”

By Clay Larroy

 

Across the America many couples are having wonderful wedding after months of planning. The bride and groom will need a honeymoon to rest and recuperate.  Vacations are so important, as it gives us a way to connect with each other in a stress free relaxed environment. Couples that take vacations together build memories that will last a lifetime. Couples vacations and travel can be a most rewarding experience. When you want to plan a vacation contact me!

 

Customs in Costa Rica

Costa Ricans are conservative when it comes to family values, and roles between male and female are expected to be traditional. 'Machismo' is a key characteristic of Costa Rica culture, although women are quickly becoming more empowered in Tico society. The population is largely middle-class, Catholic and ethnically homogenous.

Duty Free in Costa Rica

Travelers to Costa Rica over 18 years do not have to pay duty on 3 liters of alcohol; 500g of tobacco or 400 cigarettes or 50 cigars. Perfume for personal use is allowed provided it is a reasonable quantity.

Doing Business in Costa Rica

Costa Rica has a formal business environment, where men and women wear conservative suits, appointments are made and meetings begin on time. Business projects can be slow, however, as Costa Ricans are conservative in their approach to new ideas and keen to avoid risk. Spanish is the main language, but most business people speak English.

However, it is polite to have business cards as well as other promotional material printed in both English and Spanish. A lot of women have high profile jobs, although the business world, like the society in general, is still male dominated. Visiting businesswomen will be treated with respect once their ability and authority is clearly established. Hours of business are generally 8am to 4pm Monday to Friday with a two-hour lunch break from
12pm.

Communication in Costa Rica

The international access code for Costa Rica is +506. The outgoing code is 00 followed by the relevant country code (e.g. 0044 for the United Kingdom). City codes are not required. Costa Rica has one of the most advanced telecommunications systems in Latin America. The cheapest way to phone internationally is a direct call using a phone card. Mobile phone operators use GSM 1800 networks. Internet cafes are available in the main towns.

Tipping in Costa Rica

Hotels add a 10 percent service charge plus a three percent tourist tax to their bills by law. In tourist and upmarket restaurants, a tip of 10 percent is usual. However, some establishments already include a 17 percent sale and service tax in the bill. Taxi drivers are not normally tipped but you can use discretion if it's been a long trip or there was intense traffic. People will often round off the fare to the nearest Costa Rican Colón or US Dollar. Tour guides, on the other hand, are normally tipped. In general, if service has been particularly good, staff appreciate a five to 10percent tip.

Passport/Visa Note

All foreign passengers to Costa Rica must have return/onward tickets and the necessary travel documentation for their next destination, and proof of sufficient funds to cover their stay in the country. Extensions of stay for those who are visa-exempt can be arranged on arrival. Note that a yellow fever vaccination certificate is required, if arriving in Costa Rica within six days of leaving or transiting through any yellow fever risk areas. It is highly recommended that your passport has at least six months validity remaining after your intended date of departure from your travel destination. Immigration officials often apply different rules to those stated by travel agents and official sources.

REFERENCE SITES:

http://www.travelresearchonline.com/

 

Travel to create marvelous memories for you and your family or friends!

        

 

 

COSTA RICA, “THE JEWEL OF CENTRAL AMERICA”

By Clay Larroy

 

We lead such busy lives working, going to school, taking children to different activities that often we do not stop and talk to our children. We usually do not have time to sit around the dinner table and ask our children what they did today. Family vacations are so important, as it gives us a way to connect with each other in a stress free relaxed environment. Families that take vacations together build memories that will last a lifetime. Family vacations and travel can be a most rewarding experience.  When you are ready to plan a vacation contact me!

 

Travel to Costa Rica

Overview

Although a small country, there are a wealth of attractions in Costa Rica and only the most jaded of travelers could fail to be excited by the plenitude of exciting things to see and do. A whopping 25 percent of Costa Rica is taken up by 75 different national parks, wildlife refuges and biological reserves, making it a paradise for eco-tourism. Adventurous visitors are spoiled for choice with activities like surfing, kayaking, hiking, fishing, white water rafting, canyoning, climbing and zip-line tours available all over this diverse country. For those inclined to relax, Costa Rica boasts truly beautiful beaches and these alone could fill a holiday with sun-tanning, swimming and snorkeling.

The northwest region of Costa Rica is famous for two particularly spectacular national parks: the Arenal Volcano National Park, with the seemingly perpetually active Volcan Arenal at its heart; and the world renowned Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Reserve, a unique and awe-inspiring wilderness area that enchants visitors with its mystical atmosphere. Fortuna is a good base from which to explore the region and a visit to the Monteverde community, spread in the hills of the cloud forest, is a fascinating excursion.

The Pacific coast is well developed for tourism and is scattered with picturesque villages and great beaches. Jacó is a beach resort town perfect for surfing, sunning and partying in the midst of this wonderful coastline. Puntarenas, the largest town in the region, a popular stop for cruises, is also a good base for exploring the area. The Manuel Antonio National Park is the most celebrated reserve of the region and here you will find a captivating variety of wildlife, as well as the chance to enjoy numerous adventure activities.

The Caribbean coast of Costa Rica is becoming increasingly popular; it has a more relaxed atmosphere and is less developed for tourism, but it is a beach haven and the local communities are charming, friendly and happy to share their yummy cuisine and vibey music. Puerto Limon is a bit rundown, but it receives regular cruise passengers and acts as a doorway into the stunning coastal areas and pristine rainforests of Caribbean Costa Rica. Puerto Viejo de Talamanca is a popular tourist destination nestled on the coast. The best parks in this area are the Cahuita National Park, which protects a wondrous coral reef and is a treat for divers and snorkelers, and the Tortuguero National Park, in the north, a famous breeding ground for sea turtles. And in the middle of this natural wonderland of a country sits the capital, San Jose, which is a lively and modern city with good shopping, restaurants and nightlife. It has some architecturally beautiful colonial areas and a few great museums. From this urban center you can find no end of things to see and do in Costa Rica.

Climate in Costa Rica

Costa Rica has a typically tropical climate which means that the seasons are not distinct: little difference occurs in temperature throughout the year. There is a lot of rainfall, particularly from May to November, and it can rain at any time of the year. However, December to April gets significantly less rain. Temperatures along the coast are hotter, averaging 89ºF (32ºC), although they are tempered down by welcome sea breezes. The highland areas are warm during the day and can be quite cool at night.

The sun shines year-round in Costa Rica and there is no real winter which makes it a year-round holiday destination. The coolest months of the year are November, December and January and the hottest months of the year are March, April and May, but there is not a big difference ultimately. Peak tourist season in Costa Rica is from November to April, but the weather is good all year round, so for those looking to avoid the crowds, it is better to visit out of season.

Health Notes when travelling to Costa Rica

There are no vaccination requirements for Costa Rica. As a precaution, vaccinations for hepatitis A, hepatitis B and typhoid are recommended for travel to Costa Rica. There is a year-round risk of malaria in some regions of Costa Rica and advice should be taken on which areas are currently risky places to visit. You should also check out what precautions and medication, you must take to protect against the disease. Water in cities is generally safe but it is advisable to buy bottled water, especially outside the main towns where there is a risk of contamination. Dengue fever is one of a number of diseases carried by insects that also occur in this region, especially during the rainy season; protection against insect bites is the best prevention. Medical services are reliable in cities and the standard of hygiene and treatment is very high.

Safety Notes when travelling to Costa Rica

There is no history of terrorism in Costa Rica, however there are incidents of violent crime, occasionally targeting tourists. There has been an increase in attacks on tourists leaving the airport in hired cars in San Jose. Belongings

should be watched carefully at all times and in all places, particularly in bus stations and on public transport. Theft of, and from, cars is common. Do not wear jewelry or carry large amounts of cash and avoid moneychangers on the street. Strikes, protests and blockades have recently taken place without warning and further demonstrations could disrupt travel on main roads, particularly those connecting San Jose with the coast.

REFERENCE SITES:

http://www.travelresearchonline.com/

 

 

Travel  have fun and create wonderful memories for your family!

        

        

 

COSTA RICA, “THE JEWEL OF CENTRAL AMERICA”

 

By Clay Larroy

 

The preparation for a vacation is almost as exhilarating as the vacation itself. I love printing out the tickets and confirmations while thinking about how much fun I will have on vacation. I enjoy researching all the sights at the location I will see once I arrive at my destination. When you want to plan a vacation contact me!

 Overview of Costa Rica

Known for its spectacular natural beauty and biodiversity, 15 different ecosystems exist in Costa Rica. All contain dramatic changes in landscapes, climate and nature while magnificent beaches stretch for miles along an unspoiled coastline. High on the mountains, cool and pristine cloud forests are alive with mysterious sounds and below splendid tropical rain forests are packed with life. The country is famous for its progressive approach to conservation. Indeed, it is the prime eco-tourism destination in Central America due to its wealth of protected areas. Over 25 percent of the country consists of these regions, spread between 75 different national parks, wildlife refuges and biological reserves.

 

In such a small geographical area, it is surprising how much there is to see and do. A holiday in Costa Rica offers activities to suit all travelers and any mood, from action to relaxation. These include surfing, snorkeling and sunbathing, horse riding, hiking and wildlife-spotting, deep sea fishing or river cruises. One can also simply enjoy a soak in the hot springs. Travelers are also drawn to the country because of the endearing Tico hospitality. Costa Ricans are known for their gregariousness and delightful ability to pamper guests. Whether pointing out the right direction or cooking a typical authentic meal, they will be full of smiles and warmth. All this, together with easy accessibility and an efficient infrastructure, makes Costa Rica the jewel of Central America and an unforgettable vacation destination.

 

REFERENCE SITES:

http://www.travelresearchonline.com/

 

Travel  and create magnificent memories for your family!

        

        

 

NICARAGUA, “THE LAND OF LAKES AND VOLCANOES”

By Clay Larroy

  

The purposes of traveling are different for different people. There are some people who travel for the sake of pleasure. The people that are heavily burdened either at their domestic front or at their offices move too far off places for relieving their worries and anxieties. The poets and writers make a trip to distant places for collection of facts for their writings. Businessmen also visit various places to enquire as to whether there are scopes for expansion of their business. Travelling provides the benefit of sightseeing and gives pleasure to the visitor. In addition, it gives a scope to an individual to have firsthand knowledge of variegated people inhabiting the world. When you want to plan a vacation contact me!

 

Overview of the Attractions in Nicaragua

Nicaragua is known as the 'land of lakes and volcanoes' and these sublime natural features, which make Nicaragua a paradise for hikers and nature lovers, are the country's main tourist attractions. There is probably no better destination for travelers looking for close encounters with volcanoes, both active and dormant, and the massive Lake Nicaragua provides a variety of exciting opportunities to explore on water and land. Those wanting a taste of pristine rainforest should head north to the largely unexplored Bosawas Biosphere Reserve, which dominates about 15 percent of Nicaragua. Sun and sand enthusiasts also won't be disappointed, and those looking for a tropical paradise as yet unspoiled by resorts, crowds and development should holiday on the white beaches of the Corn Islands.

 

The tourist infrastructure in many of these places is not widely developed, making Nicaragua ideal for adventurous travelers looking for an experience of nature, rather than those wanting luxury and glamour. However, Nicaragua's cities offer some urban fun, with Managua, Granada and mountainous Matagalpa all providing convenient travel hubs, some colonial splendor, and interesting cultural experiences. The warmth of the climate and friendliness of the locals are an added bonus when travelling through Nicaragua.

 

REFERENCE SITES:

http://www.travelresearchonline.com/

 

Travel  and create wonderful memories for your family!

        

        

 

NICARAGUA, “THE LAND OF LAKES AND VOLCANOES”

By Clay Larroy

 

Traveling is great personal interests because it will make a more open-minded person when it comes to inter acting with people. It also made it easier to understanding as to why people act the way they do in their own society and in a society as diverse as the U.S. It has long been said that travels “broadens the mind”. Now new evidence proves that jumping on a plane will not only make you smarter, but more open-minded.  When you need to plan a vacation contact me!

 

Health Notes when travelling to Nicaragua

Visitors from a yellow fever infected area in the Americas or Africa are required to prove they have been vaccinated before entry. Malaria is a threat in many regions of Nicaragua, and travelers are advised to seek medical advice and take some form of prophylaxis. Insect repellent and mosquito nets should also be used to avoid malaria and dengue fever, both of which are carried by mosquitoes. Vaccinations are recommended for hepatitis A, hepatitis B and typhoid, and those who will be coming into contact with animals, especially bats, should consider a rabies vaccination.

Modern medical facilities in Nicaragua are only found in major towns and cities, the best of which are in Managua. Rural communities lack modern hospitals and equipment, and medications are in short supply. If a hospital is needed in Nicaragua, travelers should indicate that they desire a private hospital. Comprehensive travel insurance is essential, and travelers should take along any medication they require, in its original packaging and
accompanied by a signed and dated letter from a doctor detailing what it is and why it is needed. The most common health affliction for tourists is traveler’s diarrhea, which is preventable by safe water and food consumption. Travelers should not drink tap water and should use common sense when eating uncooked foods.

Safety Notes when travelling to Nicaragua

Rural areas in Nicaragua are notably void of police and there has been a recent increase in crime in these areas. Theft and violent crime are also becoming more common in urban areas of the usually safe country. Travelers should be careful of muggings in taxis and only use official taxis with a red license plate. Buses should not be used after dark. Due to poor road conditions, highway driving is especially dangerous after dark and should be avoided. Political demonstrations and protests occur sporadically in urban areas and can become violent; tourists should avoid all street gatherings. Powerful waves and currents can make Nicaragua's beaches dangerous, and swimmers and surfers should exercise caution. Despite these risks, Nicaragua is still one of the safest countries to travel to in the region and most visits are trouble-free.

Customs in Nicaragua

It is usual for adults in Nicaragua to live with their parents, and visitors should greet the oldest or most important person in a group first. When shopping, it is customary to bargain for goods

 REFERENCE SITES:

http://www.travelresearchonline.com/

 

Live life and travel often, the more you travel, the more memories you create!

NICARAGUA, “THE LAND OF LAKES AND VOLCANOES”

By Clay Larroy

After working and studying hard all year long families across the United States will be taking long awaited vacations. Family vacations and travel can be the most rewarding experience. Families that take vacations together build memories that will last a lifetime. Family vacations are so important, as it gives us a way to connect with each other in a stress free relaxed environment. When you need to plan a trip contact me!

Travel to Nicaragua

 

Overview

Nicaragua is known as the 'land of lakes and volcanoes' and these sublime natural features, which make Nicaragua a paradise for hikers and nature lovers, are the country's main tourist attractions. There is probably no better destination for travelers looking for close encounters with volcanoes, both active and dormant, and the massive Lake Nicaragua provides a variety of exciting opportunities to explore on water and land. Those wanting a taste of pristine rainforest should head north to the largely unexplored Bosawas Biosphere Reserve, which dominates about 15 percent of Nicaragua. Sun and sand enthusiasts also won't be disappointed, and those looking for a tropical paradise as yet unspoiled by resorts, crowds and development should holiday on the white beaches of the Corn Islands.

The tourist infrastructure in many of these places is not widely developed, making Nicaragua ideal for adventurous travelers looking for an experience of nature, rather than those wanting luxury and glamour. However, Nicaragua's cities offer some urban fun, with Managua, Granada and mountainous Matagalpa all providing convenient travel hubs, some colonial splendor, and interesting cultural experiences. The warmth of the climate and friendliness of the locals are an added bonus when travelling through Nicaragua.

 

 

Climate in Nicaragua

Nicaragua has a tropical climate and is hot year-round with little seasonal variation. There are two basic seasons: the wet season, from June to January, is defined by short heavy rainfalls that can occur daily (on the east coast, rains can last longer into the year and the east often experiences flooding during the rainy season); and the dry season, from December to May, when there is almost no rain and it can get very dry. The rainy season doesn't rule out travel because the tropical downpours tend to be over quickly and the sun comes out soon afterwards; however, tropical storms and hurricanes are possible between July and October, and some travelers prefer to avoid this period.

  

Temperature fluctuations result mainly from elevation, with average temperatures differing widely between sea level and lowlands, and highlands and highland peaks. Lowland daytime temperatures average above 86°F (30°C) with as much as 84 percent humidity, and highland temperatures average above 75°F (24°C). The hottest months are March, April and May. The best time to visit Nicaragua really depends on desired activities and region, but the peak tourist season is between December and March.

REFERENCE SITES:

http://www.travelresearchonline.com/

 

Enjoy life and travel often, the more you travel, the more memories you create!

        

        

        

        

NICARAGUA, “THE LAND OF LAKES AND VOLCANOES”

 

By Clay Larroy

 

Traveling has great educational value and increases of our knowledge. While travelling, a person comes across people of different races, religions, regions, etc. and   also visits different places. Each place has a historical importance of its own. Traveling is also a source of great pleasure. It gives us respite from our dull and dreary routine. It relieves us of our worries.  It enables us to meet new people and know their customs, habits and traditions. We can also know the different kinds of food eaten by people belonging to different regions. When you want to plan a vacation contact me!

 

Overview of Nicaragua

Political unrest has given way to a period of calm and stability in scenic Nicaragua; yet, the country hasn't quite escaped the stigma of the past to become the major tourist destination it deserves to be. The tourism industry is growing, however; it is only a matter of time before more travelers appreciate what a lucky few have already found: an entire geographical world exists within Nicaragua's borders.

The country is positioned between Costa Rica to the south, and Honduras to the north. It is flanked by oceans on two sides: the Atlantic Caribbean stretches along its eastern shores, with the Pacific to the west. Nicaragua is known as 'the land of lakes and volcanoes', with countless lagoons and lakes connected by networks of interlacing rivers, and a chain of smoldering mountains and lava fields running along the country's Pacific side. Lago de Nicaragua, a 92-mile (148km) long freshwater, shark-inhabited lake, dominates the terrain of the southwest. Rainforest blankets much of the lowlands, while high quality coffee beans grow along the highland slopes. Incredible animals make their homes in these environments: millions of sea turtles are born on the sandy western beaches, while jaguars and three-toed sloths roam the jungle and its canopies.

 

The lively Pacific coastline produces great waves for surfing vacations, or tourists can appreciate the mix of languages and cultures along the relaxed eastern coast, while embracing the Caribbean lifestyle with the locals. The capital, Managua, isn't a picturesque city, but its modern facilities, like the airport and hospitals, make it a convenient stop for travelers. The colonial architecture of many cities and towns makes for some romantic destinations, more reminiscent of the days of Spanish rule than of modern Nicaragua. The country remains relatively underdeveloped; for some, this can mean unwanted difficulties, but for others, it is a chance for unique experiences and unspoiled attractions.

 

REFERENCE SITES:

http://www.travelresearchonline.com/

Enjoy and travel to create great family memories!

        

        

        

  

 

HONDURAS, “RAIN FOREST & CLOUD FOREST”

 

By Clay Larroy

 

People in general consider traveling as their personal interests.  Traveling can quickly become an interest simply because it is such an enjoyable experience. When you travel around the world and you will see a variety of different cultures and people.   There are two things to remember while traveling. The first thing is to be open-minded about people and their culture. The second thing and the most important, is to respect other cultures no matter how different. When you want to plan a vacation contact me!

Port of Call - Roatan

The island of Roatan is the most popular travel destination in Honduras, and fast becoming one of the biggest ports of call in the Caribbean. The narrow island is the most well-developed in the country, especially in the West End, where luxury resorts, restaurants, bars and other attractions are constantly being built. Roatan is a paradise for people who like to get wet: snorkeling and scuba diving along the coral reef offers the chance to see colorful fish and sea turtles, while the Bay Island Underwater Museum is a unique facility for guided snorkeling tours of sunken treasures. Land-based activities are just as plentiful, ranging from village excursions to zipline tours and cave exploration. Cruise ships in Roatan dock at either the Coxen Hole cruise ship dock and mall complex or the Mahogany Bay Cruise Center, both of which contain a number of shops and restaurants.

Shopping in Roatan

Nearly all the shops in Roatan are in the West End along Main Street. Most are quirky little shops with a mishmash of souvenirs, local art and jewelry. Haggling is a serious sport in Roatan, and you can often bargain the price down by 50 percent or more.

Best Buy: Brightly-painted local pottery

Dining in Roatan

Sundowners - Caribbean restaurant with creative cocktails and evening bonfires Rendezvous Sushi Cafe – quirky restaurant serving sushi made from local fish Earth Mama's Garden Cafe - healthy natural food in a tranquil setting.

Best Dish: Prawn tostadas

 

REFERENCE SITES:

http://www.travelresearchonline.com/

 

Experience life travel with those you love!