Tag Archives: Costa Rica

Top 5 Adventures by Disney Itineraries for Chocolate Lovers

Ahh, the sweet taste of chocolate. From milk, to dark, and even 92%, these tasty morsels are always a delight to give – and receive, aren’t they? Adventures by Disney leads guests to exciting destinations around the world, and today we’re highlighting the top 5 Adventures by Disney itineraries for chocolate lovers which include chocolate making and tasting. On these trips, guests will learn about cacao, cocoa, beans, butter and bars.  

Let’s explore the top 5 Adventures by Disney itineraries for chocolate lovers.

Costa Rica

Costa Rica –This Central America paradise is nature at its finest, chocolate included. The beauty of the coastline, mountains, exotic wildlife, rainforest and “Pura Vida” lifestyle sets the stage for an incredible family vacation. And while in the rainforest, guests will see where chocolate is sourced and learn how it transforms from bean to treat. Chocolate making is a fascinating and detailed process. Did you know it’s made from the fruit of cacao trees? The beans from each pod are dried and roasted to create cocoa beans. Check out this Adventure Moment in Costa Rica and the Rainforest Chocolate Tour.

Italy & Switzerland

Italy & Switzerland – An authentic Swiss chocolate adventure is a highlight of this itinerary. Guests will begin their trip in Milan and embark on a breathtaking journey across Northern Italy and Switzerland, a country synonymous with chocolate. Activities include standing in the shadows of the Matterhorn, cruising across Lake Como, visiting the historical Palazzo Borromeo and its scenic baroque gardens, plus a train ride and zip-lining leading up to the chocolate tasting.

England & France

England & France – A tour of the Musée du Chocolat (Chocolate Museum) c’est délicieux! On this trip, not only will guests visit the Royal Crown Jewels, take a speedboat ride along the Thames River, enjoy a tour of St. Paul’s Cathedral, and walk the grounds of Windsor Castle, but following lunch at the Eiffel Tower they will meet a professional chocolatier and make their own chocolate. 

Rhine River Cruise

Rhine River Cruise – Beautiful European sights, and chocolate await guests on this delightful river cruise to Switzerland, France, Germany and the Netherlands. Visits to the Rembrandt House Museum, the Van Gogh Museum or a walking tour of Heidelberg and the Heidelberg Castle offer inspiration from some of history’s greatest artists and architects, plus the landscape and architecture is spectacular. But let’s talk chocolate. At the Chocolate Museum in Cologne, Germany guests will not only taste amazing chocolate, but will create their own chocolate bar!

The Rhine River Cruise: Christmas Markets itinerary adds the beauty of the season and the festive spirit of the holidays, and is fun for the entire family. Chocolate included, of course, at the Chocolate Museum.

For even more epicurean adventures, the adult-exclusive Rhine River Cruise: Food & Wine offers culinary delights around every corner, including the Chocolate Museum experience.  

Seine River Cruise

Seine River Cruise – This river cruise through France is stunning and includes sampling some of the region’s finest chocolate and cheese. Entertainment and activities, and optional bike rides, will fill the days, including a walking tour of Rouen where you’ll walk in the footsteps of Vikings and Joan of Arc. 

Which one of these Adventures by Disney itineraries for chocolate lovers would you most like to experience?

Schedule a complimentary consultation with me today so we can work some magic for you and your sweetheart to look forward to one of these Adventures by Disney itineraries for chocolate lovers.

Oh, and one more thing… Are you team milk or dark chocolate? Don’t forget to tell us in the comments below. I’ll go first. Team milk chocolate.  

The Ultimate Guide to a Costa Rica Honeymoon

If you are looking for a great honeymoon destination, Costa Rica is a good place to start your search. Bordered by the Caribbean Sea on the east and the Pacific Ocean on the west, a Costa Rica honeymoon offers endless opportunities for adventure, relaxation, romance, and exploration. It’s no wonder that Costa Rica is one of the most visited international destinations in the Western Hemisphere. Read on to learn more about what makes Costa Rica a bucket list honeymoon destination!

Stunning Scenery in Every Direction

Costa Rica is renowned for its stunning natural beauty. The lush rainforests, incredible
waterfalls, and pristine beaches on Pacific and Caribbean coasts make the place an
ideal destination for romantic couples. (I hear the Jurrassic Park theme song playing)

An Adventure Seeker’s Paradise

If you are an active and adventurous couple, then Costa Rica is for you, because this
country encourages eco-tourism, such as hiking, zip-lining, white-water rafting, and
snorkeling. You can even try your hand at diving in vibrant coral reefs.

Romantic Accommodations Abound

Costa Rica provides a variety of romantic accommodations, including premium resorts
that offer every conceivable luxury. Many boutique hotels and secluded eco-lodges are
ready to serve your every need.

Couples can relax and enjoy private beach picnics, candlelit dinners, and sunset cruises.
Costa Rica offers a fine blend of adventure, relaxation, natural beauty, and cultural
experiences, making it an excellent choice for a memorable honeymoon.

Here are some top areas to explore while planning a honeymoon to Costa Rica.

La Fortuna

La Fortuna is one of the prime honeymoon destinations in Costa Rica. It was the
destination where Eugene Levy went for episode 2 of “The Reluctant Traveler.”

The key highlights are:

  • Breathtaking natural beauty
  • Adventure activities
  • Relaxing hot springs
  • Unique accommodations (like the Nayara Tented Camp where Eugene Levy
  • stayed)

La Fortuna is the ideal choice for couples seeking a romantic getaway. Enjoy hikes
around the volcano, soak in hot springs, and witness the mesmerizing lava flows (when
active).

Go zip-lining through the rainforest, rappelling down waterfalls, go on a thrilling
white-water rafting excursion, or take a canopy tour.

La Fortuna provides a perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and natural beauty for an
unforgettable honeymoon experience.

Guanacaste

Located in northwestern Costa Rica, Guanacaste is an excellent choice for a
honeymoon destination. Guanacaste stands apart for its

  • Beautiful beaches
  • Lush rainforests
  • Various outdoor activities for couples

The top attractions and activities you must explore to make it a perfect honeymoon
spot are

  • Tamarindo Beach
  • Palo Verde National Park
  • Rincon de la Vieja National Park
  • Papagayo Peninsula
  • Playa Flamingo
  • Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve

You can go on a sunset catamaran cruise along the Guanacaste coastline, enjoy the
stunning views, relish a gourmet dinner, and even go snorkeling or kayaking together.

Make sure you watch the weather when planning your honeymoon in Guanacaste.
Costa Rica has a tropical climate, and December to April is generally considered the
best time to visit the place for its sunny and warm weather.

Monteverde

Located in the lush cloud forests of Costa Rica, Monteverde is a fantastic choice for a
honeymoon destination. Monteverde is special because of its

  • Breathtaking natural beauty
  • Abundant wildlife
  • Reputation as a bio-diversity hotspot

Monteverde is the top place for enjoying a honeymoon for many couples because

  • It has cloud forests filled with mist, towering trees, and an incredible array of plant and animal life.
  • Adventurous couples can explore, such as ziplining through the forest canopy, embarking on a guided hike to spot exotic birds and animals, horseback riding, or taking a romantic stroll along the hanging bridges.
  • The Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve or the Santa Elena Cloud Forest Reserve is a must-visit place for its natural beauty.
  • Monteverde is known for its commitment to sustainability and eco-tourism. You can indulge in eco-friendly activities that have minimal environmental impact.

Monteverde also has a vibrant local culture. Couples can visit the Monteverde Cheese Factory to learn about the region’s dairy traditions, explore the charming town of Santa Elena, and interact with the friendly locals proud of their community.

More Reasons to Choose Costa Rica As Your Honeymoon Destination

Costa Rica is recognized as one of the happiest countries in the world according to the Gallup World Index and the Happy Planet Index in 2011, 2012, and 2013. The country’s high levels of joy, health, and longevity are closely associated with the concept of wellness, which plays a significant role in determining happiness.

You can find wellness in a wide range of activities.

Animal Sightings

True happiness can be experienced in the Monteverde cloud forest, where small groups can embark on canopy bridge tours and enjoy a breathtaking aerial view of the national park.

The rainforests of Costa Rica are home to more than 900 different bird species and a diverse array of monkeys and sloths, making animal sightings an assured experience and an opportunity for relaxation. It also helps reduce stress levels, allowing visitors to
enhance their overall sense of well-being.

Wellness Through Yoga and Meditation

Finding wellness through yoga has become quite popular in Costa Rica. You can relax
the mind and body through yoga sessions in Puerto Viejo’s Caribbean surroundings.
Rustic, open-air studios in the Playa Cocles village integrate into the Zen experience,
which allows vacationing yoga enthusiasts to have a relaxing time.

The Southern Pacific region of the country is establishing a leadership role in promoting wellness activities. Surf camps and yoga teaching centers provide accommodations, allowing enthusiasts to improve their hobbies. These havens, surrounded by organic community gardens, offer a comprehensive wellness experience, especially for those who visit Quepos, Uvita, Dominical, or Ojochal.

The options include enjoying guided meditations near waterfalls in Bajos del Toro,
indulging in a soothing massage at luxurious resorts, and snorkeling alongside the
diverse marine life in Cahuita National Park’s coral reef.

Wellness Through Food

Food also plays an integral part in the wellness journey. Costa Ricans are experts in
creating delectable meals using the freshest ingredients, adhering to the farm-to-table
trend.

The local Central Market in San José offers a way to connect with the earth with a
vibrant assortment of locally grown fruits and vegetables. The weekend farmers’
markets throughout the country offer seasonal items. Local sodas (small takeout stands) offer daily menus that change every day to showcase the distinct flavors of
each region.

It’s easy to see why Costa Rica continues its reign as one of the world’s top honeymoon destinations. The nation is abundant with unique encounters, thanks to its extensive offerings of natural marvels and verdant landscapes. The landscapes are exquisite and the natural beauty will take your breath away.

Truly, Costa Rica possesses a treasure trove of coveted experiences for honeymooners, but with that said, it’s important to select an area that meets your needs and dreams for your perfect honeymoon.

If you’re trying to figure out your own bucket list honeymoon, but are struggling and
on information overload, feel free to schedule a free 30 minute consultation with me
today, and let’s get your honeymoon on the “done” list. Click Here to Schedule Your
Free Consultation Now
.

See Active Volcanoes and More in Costa Rica with Disney Cruise Line

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Did you know that you can explore the jungles, volcanoes, beaches and more in Costa Rica with Disney Cruise Line? Puntarenas, Costa Rica, is one of the tropical destinations on the Panama Canal Disney Cruise this April. Puntarenas, meaning “sandy point” in Spanish, sits on a long, narrow peninsula in the Gulf of Nicoya on the Pacific side of Costa Rica. With active volcanoes, cloud forests, fern grottoes and a 264-mile coastline, it is the perfect playground for hiking, whitewater rafting, kayaking, mountain biking, horseback riding, surfing, snorkeling, fishing and more. Here are a few recommendations for Port Adventures in Costa Rica with Adventures by Disney…

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Poas Volcano & Sarchi – On this adventure, you’ll travel through a stunning mountain landscape to one of the world’s largest craters, an active volcano set 8,500 feet above sea level. At the Poas Volcano National Park, enjoy a one-hour guided tour and fascinating exhibits. Next, savor a traditional Costa Rican lunch at a charming restaurant before traveling to the picturesque town of Sarchi to watch artisans paint wood crafts, leather goods and souvenirs.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Coribici River Float – Enjoy a relaxing, two-hour trip down the Corobicí River on a river raft filled with excitement as you maneuver class I and II waters. Cruise deep into the jungle, and keep your eyes peeled for howler monkeys, white-faced capuchin monkeys, marmots, parrots, herons, wood storks, spoonbills and more while you marvel at the magnificent flora along the way. After the rafting experience, fuel up with a delicious home-style Costa Rican lunch.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Tropical Forest Canopy Zip Line and Aerial Tram Combination – Take to the trees for a scenic tour of Costa Rica’s diverse tropical forest. First, soak up stunning views over the canopy on the Pacific Forest Aerial Tram. Then set off on a zip line adventure, soaring across creeks and small waterfalls through the tropical forest using 15 traverses ranging from 262 feet to 720 feet apart. Back on land, enjoy a Costa Rican lunch, shop for souvenirs and visit the medicinal plant garden, butterfly garden and snake exhibit.

Remember, when the ship’s in port, venture ashore!

Siera is a travel agent with Destinations in Florida, an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner and member of the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA). She would love to help you plan your next cruise at no cost to you. Contact Siera today at siera@destinationsinflorida.com or at 734-771-1290 for more information or your free, no obligation quote. 

Adventures by Disney will Enhance Italy Itinerary and Add Teen-Focused Activities

Another new feature for 2014, Adventures by Disney will enhance its current Italy itinerary and add teen-focused activities to existing journeys.

Here’s a sneak peek at the enhanced Italy itinerary: “Viva Italia” 
On this adventure, you will travel to Rome, Florence, Venice, and Tuscany. This enhanced itinerary is perfect for families looking to explore the splendor of one of Europe’s most iconic destinations, complete with newly added VIP experiences. The journey begins in Rome with a private experience at the Colosseum and even a rare after-hours visit to the Vatican Museum and Sistine Chapel. Next is a stop in Tuscany to learn the art of pasta in a private cooking class. Then, become immersed in the city with a step back in time to the wonders of the Renaissance on a special tour of the secret passages of the Palazzo Vecchio. Finally, unmask the mysteries of Venice with Carnevale, a mask-making activity, and a detective game at the Doge’s Palace.

Adventures by Disney is also adding special teen-focused departures in 2014:
• Peru: Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu, Cusco & Lima – This South American adventure will now include authentic experiences for teens including taking a spin at salsa dancing with the locals and horseback riding through the rugged  landscape. The tales of ancient civilizations will also come alive during a bonfire and stargazing.
• Costa Rica: San José, Tortuguero, Arenal National Park, and Guanacaste – This vacation will be an exotic journey through the lush rainforests and thrilling wildlife of Costa Rica. The adventure will be enhanced with a teen-centric beach party on the country’s pristine sands. The jungles, volcanoes and waters of the region will be forever with families as teens also have the opportunity to partake in photography classes.
• Arizona & Utah: Sedona, Grand Canyon, Arches National Park and Moab – You can venture into the heart of the Southwest with a bike ride through Boynton Canyon in Sedona and an exhilarating hike through the Grand Canyon at sunset, added with teens in mind.

Across six continents, Adventures by Disney takes you on vacations you never dreamed possible, fostering an adventurous environment to build everlasting bonds and heartwarming memories.

Would you like more information on an Adventures by Disney vacation to one of these exciting destinations? Contact spreadingmagic@gmail.com today!