Trip Coach: October 24, 2006

 
 Rob Hodel: Hello Everyone! Buenos Dias! My name is Rob Hodel and I am your Trip Coach for Costa Rica. Thanks for the great response and great questions. It is refreshing to be able to talk with experienced travelers that get it!

First a little background about myself. I have been living in Costa Rica for the past 15 years after moving there to start Tico Travel with my brother Steve. I speak fluent Spanish and along with Tico Travel we also have our own hotel and even a sports bar in San Jose. Being involved in these businesses gives me access and insight into many different sources of travel information.

 My main job has been to travel around and keep on top of all the people and places we work with while Steve runs the office in Fort Lauderdale and is the tough negotiator that gets us the great airfare prices we are famous for.

I am going to try to answer all of these questions with all the specificity that time allows but in case I do not answer your question completely or do not get to it I will be available at the Tico Travel office (ticotravel.com) for one more day before I go back to Costa Rica.

Thanks again for the questions! 
 Rob

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Orinda, CA: Hi Rob- Looking for a low-key inexpensive beach place -- I like to swim and if possible snorkel. Pacific or Cahuita? 1-2 adults will be there for 2-3wks in Feb.

Rob Hodel: If you want a low key place I would go to Drake's Bay, it is a little hard to get to but that is why its low key, try Corcovado Expeditions, ask for Carlos. On the Caribbean side the best snorkeling is in Cahuita but its not very low key. The best option is going just over the border to Panama to Bocas del Toro. Its cheap and has some of the best snorkeling anywhere. Its just beginning to get discovered so hurry!

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Orinda, CA: How long does it takes to drive to Arenal from the San Jose area? Are reservations a must these days? We are 2 middle-aged adults traveling in Feb. (I lived there in 60's and 70's).

Rob Hodel: The drive time to Arenal is about 3 ½ hours. Depending on the time of year you may be able to "wing it" but I would suggest that you reserve in advance for February. Most hotels charge the same price if you book in advance and after a drive like that you do not want to have to shop for a room. Try Arenal Paraiso or Montana del Fuego for two mid range options. If they are full let me know and I will suggest some others. You are going to see quite a difference from when you where there last in some ways but the feeling is still the same, friendly and welcoming.

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