Costa Rica with Caravan Tours

Costa Rica is a nature lover’s paradise, as my husband, Gerald, and I, found while traveling Jan. 24-Feb. 2, 2007, with Caravan Tours (401 North Michigan Ave., Chicago, IL 60611; 800/227-2826, www.caravantours.com). Our tour cost $995 plus $99 for insurance (land only).

Our group of 43 toured in an air-conditioned bus with reclining seats and a toilet on board. We rotated seats daily and there was extra space as well. Most meals were buffet, with a big variety of fresh fruit, juices, vegetables, meat and fish.

Highlights included riding the aerial tram through the heart of the rainforest at Braulio Carrillo National Park; a longboat ride, en route to our rustic lodge in Tortuguero National Park, on which we viewed birds, monkeys, crocodiles and caimans; watching the lava flow at night from our hotel rooms facing the Arenal Volcano, and a relaxing soak in the hot springs in the Caño Negro Wildlife Refuge.

In Manuel Antonio Park, we had a chance to walk the nature trails and swim in the Pacific Ocean. We also toured a coffee plantation.

Costa Rica is a beautiful country with friendly people.

PAULA HEBARD

Roseberg, OR