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24
Aug
2010
Sustainability
Certification for Sustainable Tourism
Sustainability, as a model of development, seeks to meet the current demands of society without compromising the rights of future generations to meet theirs. The development of the country cannot be based on the unbalanced exploitation of resources to meet the demands of society. This is why the Costa Rica government created the CST, the certification for sustainable tourism. The CST strengthens the image of the country as an authentic environmental destination, considerably raising the competitiveness of the national tourist product.
A business like Hacineda Guachipelin will see improved efficiency within its operations through efficient handling of resources. As and end result there will be significant savings, a reduction in sources of pollution , and waste reduction.
Recently Hacienda Guachipelin was reevaluated by the Costarrican Ministry of Tourism and the certification was upgraded from 1 leaf to 2 leafs. This is proof of the effort that the staff of Hacienda Guachipelin is working with sustainable practices. This is Guachipelin’s compromise with todays and future generations.
Hacienda Guachipelin is located on the foot of Rincon de la Vieja Volcano. This national park has an area of 14,083 hectares and is divided into two sectors: Las Pailas and Santa María. The park contains nine volcanic cones and one lake, La Jilgueros. Pailas Sector: Trail (7.5 km) to the Von Seebach (1,898 meters above sea level) and Rincon de la Vieja (1,806 meters above sea level) craters; trail to las pailas (2.77 km); trail to La Cangreja (5.1 km) and Escondidas (4.3 km) waterfalls; trail to the Río Blanco pool (600 m); trail to fumaroles and mud volcanoes. For reservations contact our reservations office at info@guachipelin.com , from US or Canada Call Toll Free 1-888-730-3840 . There are great season packages for the month of September and October of 2010. For hotels with certification for sustainability check this link.
15
Aug
2010
Best for Solo travelers
Rincon de la Vieja National Park was mentioned in Travel and Leisure’s article as one of the best places for solo travelers in Costa Rica. Rincon de la Vieja National Park was created in 1974 for the only purpose of protecting the high waters of the Tempisque River. This Park is part of the Guanacaste Conservation Area , that presently has an extension of more than 115 thousand hectares. There are many interesting trails to visit at this park:
- Las Pailas Trail: This trail has a total distance of 5.4 kilometers. The duration of a hike on this trail is approximately 2 hours. A visitor will observe secondary volcanic activity, mud and fumaroles, hot springs, mud puddles. Also a great variety of plant life and animal life. Monkeys and large birds are common to observe. Visitors should not cross existing fences since the high temperatures can cause serious burns. Hiking shoes and drinking water is a must.
- The Crater top trail: This trail is for people with a good physical condition. The total distance is 15 kilometers and the time to cover the trail and return back to the rangers station is 7 hours. The final elevation is 1915 meters above sea level. Besides the plant and animal life, visitors will observe the effects of the lava eruptions from a distant past.
- There are 2 more trails in the park that are not so popular, but they are very interesting too. Azufrales , which means sulfur springs, about 14 kilometers and La Cangreja, which means Lady Crab, a blue waterfall similar to Rio Celeste.
la cangreja
Costa Rica is know as a family travel destination and an adventure destination. This country is strategically located south of the United States, just under 3 hours from mayor US airports. If you are interested in visiting Rincon de la Vieja Hacienda Guahipelin is a good place to stay. It is close to the Park and has lots of adventure tours. For reservations, please contact info@guachipelin.com or call toll free from US or Canada to 1-888-730-3840.
9
Aug
2010
Tripadvisor Review
A guest from Canada who handles student groups in Costa Rica for the summer vacation wrote the following review on tripadvisor:
I have stayed at the Hacienda now for the past 3 years. Each time for 3 days with a group of High school students.The Hacienda is a unique blend of a working ranch/ hotel. They have certainly improved the food and hotel to make it more comfortable. The rooms are air conditioned and very comfortable. The personal are very friendly and always willing to assist you in any way possible. Some of the staff do not speak english but I never had any trouble having any question or concern dealt with rapidly and effiecently through the main desk, Now, one has to keep in mind that this a working ranch. So yes, there are some animal noises or smells around the sable area. It is the fact that the Hacienda is a working ranch that makes it so special. The hotel offers a variety of adventure activities that are well worth the price. The Hacienda is ideally located a few kilometers from the national park. I recommend this hotel if you are looking for a unique Costa Rican experience. This is why I come back year after year and all my high students always have a positive experience.
To make your reservation for Hacienda Guachipelin call toll free from USA or Canada to 1-888-730-3840 or write to info@guachipelin.com . You can also make your reservation directly on sites like expedia or travelocity . There are great specials for the next 3 months, like $35 per person or the 3rd night free (some restrictions apply).
2
Aug
2010
Nature Air
NatureAir, the world’s first carbon neutral airline, announces that families looking to travel on a budget this year can have their wish. The airline is bringing back its popular Kids Fly Free program, making transportation for a family of four much more affordable.
This time, Nature Air is bringing some of the finest hotels in Costa Rica on board to offer families an entire unforgettable vacation at an unbeatable price. The Kids Fly Free program will be offered from April 20 through Dec. 15 for children 12-years-old and under with the purchase of two adult tickets, when booked through select Nature Air partner hotels. Kids will enjoy free flights and free stays, making your family vacation to Costa Rica that much more attainable. Select hotels are also offering free meals for children throughout their stay.
“As a frequent traveler and father, with one on the way, I understand the financial impact of taking the whole family on vacation,” said Alexi Huntley, commercial director of Nature Air. “Costa Rica offers such unique adventures and learning opportunities that children could never experience at home. This summer it’s our goal to make vacations to Costa Rica more attainable for families with young kids.”
The following hotels are partnering with NatureAir to offer this exceptional program:
Guanacaste Area:
* Punta Islita, Punta Islita
* Tamarindo Diria, Tamarindo
* Hacienda Guachipelin, Liberia
* Bahia Del Sol, Tamarindo
* Mediterraneus, Tamarindo
* Harmony Hotel, Nosara, Playa Guiones
Tambor and Santa Teresa Area:
* Luz de Vida, Tambor
* Tangomar, Tambor
* Playa Carmen, Tambor
* Latitude 10, Santa Teresa
Arenal Volcano Area:
* Lavas Tacotel, Arenal
* Arenal Manoa, Arenal
* Royal Corin, Arenal
* Arenal Lodge, Arenal
Manuel Antonio area:
* Inn on the Park, Quepos
* Monterey del Mar, Quepos
* Villas Rio Mar, Quepos
* Villas Lirio, Quepos
* Hotel Si Como No, Quepos
* Arenas del Mar, Quepos
Osa Peninsula:
* Aguila de Osa Inn, Drake Bay
* Lapa Rios, Cabo Matapalo, Puerto Jimenez
For a complete list of flight schedules and prices visit www.natureair.com or call 1-800-235-9272. To reserve flights for the Kids Fly Free program, contact the specified hotels directly. For vacation information contact NatureAir’s eco-friendly travel division NatureVacations (www.naturevacations.com).
About NatureAir
NatureAir is the world’s first certified carbon neutral airline and the fastest growing regional airline in Central America. Since its inception in 2000, NatureAir has grown from flying 18,000 passengers annually to more than 140,000 in 2008. NatureAir is the only twin-engine airline in Costa Rica with both scheduled and chartered flights, and offers 74 daily flights to 17 destinations in Costa Rica and Panama.
NatureAir’s voluntary 100% carbon neutrality program ensures that every flight’s carbon emissions are compensated by guaranteeing conservation of forests in the Osa Peninsula in southern Costa Rica. The airline’s commitment to saving energy extends to its use of bio-diesel (cooking oils) to run the company’s entire fleet of ground equipment and diesel vans. NatureAir is a proud sponsor of the Rainforest Alliance, World Heritage Alliance, Climate Neutral Network, The Ecotourism Society, and founded the NatureKids Foundation. The World Travel & Tourism Council, Rainforest Alliance, Conde Nast Traveler and Virgin Holidays have recognized NatureAir for its sustainability efforts. For more information visit: http://www.natureair.com
1
Aug
2010
New York to Costa Rica
If you are planning to travel to Costa Rica from New York , for the coming month of september, there are great news. Airfares in Jet Blue couldn’t be any better: $385.55 taxes included (as quoted today) per person for a round trip ticket. Imagine leaving New York, from JKF at 6 AM 08:39 AM and arriving to San Jose, Costa Rica’s international airport Juan Santamaria at 11:21 AM. It doesn’t get any better. If you want to rent a small 4×4 for a week, for the first week of september, there is a rate with insurance for $223.82 with National Car Rental. This vehicle is enough for 2 or 3 people. Then just imagine to go for 3 days to Rincon de la Vieja Volcano, the most visited national park in Guanacaste for as low as $194 for a 3 night special that includes a double room with a/c and tv, breakfast and a horseback ride tour to one of the waterfalls in Hacienda Guachipelin. After a 3 night stay at Hacienda Guachipelin, travelers can enjoy the beach area nearby, like Coco Beach or Hermosa Beach of the Papagayo Gulf area.
Costa Rica is famous for the diverse adventure offer. From mountain bike to horseback rides, zip lines, rafting, trekking, hiking and more. There are lots of active volcanoes, hot springs and waterfalls. The best part is that Costa Rica is really friendly to tourists. For more information on tours contact guanacastetours.com . Don’t miss out on the September and October specials on Costa Rica. Pura Vida !!!!
JetBlue Costa Rica
16
Jul
2010
Palo Verde
jaribu costa rica
Rancho Humo is a beautiful property of 2638 acres. Thanks to the determination of a family, it was transformed from a cattle farm into an international example of wetland rescue. This is the new tour in the wetland area in Guanacaste.
In 2006, a plan was initiated to restore 2000 acres of former wetlands in favor of a new conservation area.
Here you can experience numerous ecosystems: mangrove, wetlands, dry tropical rainforest, pastures, a large variety of flora and fauna including herons, black crowned night herons, hawks, ducks, roseate spoonbills, wood stork, and the largest and most exotic aquatic bird in Guanacaste: the Jabiru (Jabiru mycteria, Ciconiiforme Order, Ciconiidae Family). The Jaribu has a height of 122-140 cm, a wingspan of 230-260 cm, a weight 8 kg and a length of the beak of 30-33 cm.
Aside from the captivating scenery, Rancho Humo is an hacienda that offers the culture of a traditional and picturesque town, Puerto Humo.
The one day tour at Rancho Humo includes :
1. Tempisque River / Palo Verde
2. Isla de Pájaros
3. Rancho Humo Reserve
4. Rancho Humo Lookout
5. Wetlands
Guanacaste has many attractions, and Palo Verde is one of them. In Hacienda Guachipelin we recommend to our guests to set one day aside to visit this beautiful area.
A tour operator that can arrange a trip to Rancho Humo is Guanacastetours.com
You can call toll free from USA or Canada to 1-888-874-4936
11
Jul
2010
Riu Costa Rica
Costa Rica is a Central American country considered one of the world’s most beautiful spots, thanks to its breathtakingly spectacular natural landscape and exoticism and its mature democracy.
RIU’s first Costa Rican establishment, built by the firm itself and located on the oceanfront in Playa Matapalo, the beautiful region of Guanacaste on the country’s Pacific coast. The hotel is close to the international airport in Liberia LIR.
Riu is situated in northern Costa Rica, in Guanacaste on Playa de Matapalo beach. it has omplimentary sun loungers on the beach, a 6 story main building. It is surrounded by 35,000 m2 / 41,86 sq. yards of lush gardens. RIU is 33 km / 20.5 miles from Liberia airport and 50 kilometers from the most famous National Park, Rincon de la Vieja. This National Park is famous because of its abundant volcanic activity. Rincon de la Vieja is also famous for the adventure tours offered by Hacienda Guachipelin.
Hacienda Guchipelin is owned by a Costarrican family. It is a working cattle ranch and activities related to traditional cattle farming is still going on here.
For reservations for Hacienda Guachipelin, call toll free from US or Canada to 1-888-730-3840 or write to info@guachipelin.com
29
Jun
2010
Up to 50% off !!!!
Costa Rica, this small nation, almost the size of West Virginia, is known as much for its leadership in sustainable tourism as it is for its incredible offering of activities and experiences for all types of travelers. Whether someone is looking to be adventurous, relax with the family, explore nature, take in a second honeymoon with someone special, or all of the above, Costa Rica has a special offer in hand. There are over 75 special travel promotions running in the country ranging from additional free nights, great upgrades, up to 50 per cent discount on spa treatments and much more. For a complete list of the hotel properties, tour operators and car rental companies that are offering special vacation deals, visit http://www.visitcostarica.com/ict/news/com-vpromomay2010.html. Travelers wanting to take advantage of these promotions should mention VPROMO when requesting the special rates.
22
Jun
2010
Guanacaste by plane
Hacienda Guachipelin is a great place for a family vacation. There are lots of activities for all ages, hiking, horseback riding, swimming in one of the 5 waterfalls at the Hacienda, playing with the farm animals, or simply relaxing in a hamock or a the look out. The Hacienda is famous for adventure.
The Hacienda is close to Liberia, a small town where the new international airport is located. The driving time form Liberia is about 30 minutes. When our guests fly directly in Liberia, they spend little time on the road, but when they fly in San Jose, the capital, the driving time to Guanacaste can be an issue. This is the reason why Hacienda Guachipelin has partnered with Nature Air to offer the best rates possible, so guests not only can fly at a great price, but they can also save precious vacation time, not driving, but flying.
Nature Air is based in San Jose, Costa Rica. Nature Air is Central America’s Premier Airline for adventure travel, luxury vacations and eco tours. This airline offers domestic flights from San José to all the major Costa Rica vacation destinations. This includes Tamarindo for fishing, surfing and scuba diving and Liberia for advenutre travel. For reservations on airline tickets, just fallow the link http://www.natureair.com/guachipelin-liberia.aspx?referrer_id=440047 .
For information on Hacienda Guachipelin, please email to info@guachipelin.com or call toll free to 1-888-730-3840
26
May
2010
Costa Rica facts
Here is a very interesting video that shows some facts about our country. This video explains why is it that in a very small country, with not a big source of income, lots of things can be accomplished. The Costa Rican way of life, happy and peaceful, with no army but and army of school teachers. And another interesting fact, our belief in soustainability, and our new countries goal, becoming the first carbon neutral country.
A place to experience all of this is Rincon de la Vieja area, where there is presently being developed a clean energy project, a Geothermal electrical generation project, as well as one of the most visited nationals parks, with lots of volcanic activity, often being called the Yellowstone of Costa Rica.
Rincon de la Vieja is located north of Costa Rica, in the Guanacaste province, just about an hour away from Papagayo Gulf and about 1 1/2 hour away from Tamarindo beach.