Cabo San Lucas, Mexico might have a well deserved reputation as a resort town, but it’s a lot more than just fancy hotels. Scuba diving Cabo has some utterly unique features that makes the experience as enjoyable for newbies as it is for people who go on a regular basis.
Scuba diving in Cabo San Lucas, why go?
As far as diving in Cabo San Lucas goes, there is a lot to like. A wetsuit is advisable, because you don’t want your gear scraping up your back.
I actually wanted to dive in just my bikini, because the water temperature doesn’t ever get that chilly. However, my dive master still thought it prudent to wear a wetsuit. As he reminded me, once you descend past 30 feet, the atmosphere inevitably becomes brisk. But, unlike most dive sites, it’s not that bad.
Visibility – a reason to dive Cabo!
One of my favorite things about diving Cabo is the visibility. Occasionally, storms stir up the sand, and I have had this happen on occasion. However, in the grand scheme of scuba, conditions are typically favorable. Even my worst day of visibility while diving Cabo was still a good one.
Scenery – more reasons to dive Cabo!
Schools of colorful fish and rays are plentiful in the area. Also, different species of eels like to hide in the crevices. You need to look pretty hard to find them, but it’s exciting when they pop out.
If you are a more advanced diver, venture out to Gordo Banks. You have a pretty good shot of swimming with hammerhead sharks here. Don’t be put off if our finned friends are feeling a bit shy. Unfortunately, I didn’t see any when I went, but other divers told me that they are usually in the area.
The healthy coral is vibrant, and you can kind of lose yourself staring at it. Don’t worry, you immediately snap back to reality, but it’s easy to fall into a dreamy state of life under the sea.
Additionally, the sand falls are really something special. For less advanced divers, they offer a visually unique experience.
Mind boggling rock formations
Let’s not forget the piece de resistance, the Arch of Cabo San Lucas, better known as El Arco. This area that is usually teaming with cuddly sea lions (please don’t actually cuddle with them) is referred to as the Corridor. Near Lover’s Beach and Divorce Beach, yes these are their actual names, the rock formations at Land’s End are plentiful and magnificent.
Pro Tip: Take pictures and make a pitstop at one of the beaches while your lungs regulate in between dives. The scenery is ridiculous!
What makes diving Cabo special?
The further out you go, the more interesting situations you encounter, in terms of currents. And, venturing through the Channel is awesome. Swimming forward then being pushed back and repeating the process until you are through is a blast. Honestly, it feels more like going on a high octane ride. For me, this is easily my favorite thing about diving Cabo.
The best part is that the Channel isn’t difficult; however, it requires persistence. This activity is best for strong swimmers.
If you are with a group that is not pushing forward, people will quickly be playing full contact scuba diving. It’s not dangerous, but it can get annoying.
Pro Tip: Be the first person behind your dive master to avoid getting body checked by your fellow diver.
Overall
Scuba diving Cabo is an incredible experience. Warm waters, interesting terrain and good visibility are a scuba lovers dream. Bonus, once you are waterlogged, the options of beautiful resorts and restaurants are seemingly endless.
Here is what I did not understand about Iceland prior to visiting. Reykjavik is a thriving cultural hub exploding with an artistic, if not hipster scene. However, it is pretty far away from the majority of the adrenaline-fueled activities that draw throngs of visitors. In addition to streamlining your trip, you can easily cut costs if you explore the country’s wild terrain by way of an Iceland car rental.
It is possible to visit Iceland’s natural wonders while basing yourself in Reykjavik. And, during my first trip to the ‘land of fire and ice’, this is exactly what I did. Just realize that if you are an adventure seeker, you will be on a bus for hours every day if you do not procure a car. Additionally, you might pay a king’s ransom for the privelege of schlepping around the country. Believe me, saving money in Iceland is no easy task.
Life among the icebergs
One day, I spent over 16 hours in pursuit of icebergs at the much bevyed Jokulsarlon, and this turned out to be one of the most epic experiences I have ever had. Yes, it took what felt like forever, but nothing glitters quite as brightly as Diamond Beach. In the end, it was worth it, but I wish I had planned better.
Initially, I was intimidated about the prospect of driving over the country’s rough topography. However, if you stick to the main roads, it’s not too bad. Honestly, it is mostly just driving in large circles.
Additionally, there are cute hotels and Airbnbs along the way for lodging. And, having your own ride means that you will not be sitting on a bus for tortuous hours on a daily basis. Plus, tourism has been on the upswing in Iceland for a while, so chances are that your vehicle will be completely full if you hop on an organized tour out of Reykjavik. Translation: booking your own car rental is an easy solve to ensure that you do not waste time during a Iceland long weekend getaway.
Plan ahead – book your Iceland car rental
This trip is one that contains an embarrassment of riches (e.g., Silfra, the Blue Lagoon and countless others). Just be sure to double check that what you want to do is offered at the specific time of year of your visit. For example, I took the zodiac speed boat trip among the icebergs at the glacier lagoon. Easily one of my favorite activities during my Icelandic excursion, this is only offered during the summer and is still subject to cancellation if the weather is bad.
Iceland is a diverse country that is full of geological surprises, but make sure to define your goals. I advise soaking up Reykjavik for a couple of days and then moving on to the more adventurous parts of the country. You do not want to waste valuable time sitting on a bus when you could be exploring the country’s diverse landscapes. In Iceland, the car rental process is really worth the effort and will end up saving you loads of time. Remember, a bit of prep work really pays off for this holiday.
Widely touted as the largest horses in the world, the Kelpie embodies equine Scottish power. These statues are sculpted in the likeness of waterborne mythological creatures. On a more practical note, these shape shifting spirits form a gateway to the Clyde and Forth Canal in Falkirk, Scotland.
What’s it like exploring the Scottish Central Lowlands – Helix Park
First off, visiting the Kelpie figures is surreal, and Falkirk is stunning. Entrenched in natural beauty and surrounded by lochs, it’s easy to be charmed by the Scottish Central Lowlands.
When you walk up to the gargantuan masterpieces, you will most likely encounter swans walking about. Personally, I am a big fan; however, I quickly learned that most of the locals are less than enthusiastic when it comes to these graceful birds. Surprised at how this quickly became a topic of conversation, I moved along. Try not to be taken aback that these creatures are not beloved across the pond.
Lose yourself in the majesty of the Kelpie statues.
Designed by modern artist Andy Scott, the horse heads are executed in a sleek style that is dripping with emotion. The Kelpie statues are nothing short of amazing. You can almost feel empathy being projected from their eyes. And, I imagine that task is pretty hard to accomplish when working with steel.
Something about these statues feels ethereal and simultaneously royal. Yet, there is an air of contemplation and maybe even sadness. It’s a lot to take in, and I suppose it is easy to project your own emotions onto the horses. Still, there is just something about them that demands your attention.
If you embrace the draw of striding among mythical horses, it’s easy to lose yourself in the reverie of the Kelpies. You can’t help but wish they would spring to life and begin a new quest. My fingers are still crossed.
Overall – the Kelpies Scotland
An afternoon spent hanging out with the Kelpie spirits is magical. And, you never know what fun facts you will discover from the locals. While walking around, I learned that the Clydesdale originally hails from Scotland. Super Bowl beer ads (which I love), convinced me that the breed was native to America. Not so!
Pro Tip: This activity in Helix Park is completely free, so it won’t eat into your travel budget. It’s an incredible Scottish road trip. Embracing modern art in a country that revels in historical monuments is quite the spectacle. The juxtaposition is incredibly chic.
Bucharest is a fascinating place that dances between Cold War era nostalgia and the complexities facing every modern city. One of the most interesting buildings by far is the Palace of Parliament. Located in Sector 5, it was formerly called the House of the Republic.
Why visit the Palace of Parliament in Bucharest?
First off, the Romanian Palace of Parliament is huge. And when you approach the building, it is ridiculously impressive. The complex appears to stretch on forever. And, fun fact, it is the heaviest building on the planet.
Here’s what visiting the Palace of the Parliament is actually like
Make sure you book your ticket online ahead of time and don’t be late for your tour. This is one of the best places to visit in Bucharest that fills up quickly. And, officials prohibit you from wandering around the building unescorted.
Additionally, walking inside the building is pretty much like going through airport security. And, don’t be surprised if you are asked to part with your passport for the duration of the tour. Don’t worry, you will get it back when you leave.
Here’s what you can expect to see
The opulence in every room is mind boggling. The chandelier in the theatre, yes the theatre, of the Palace of Parliament is spectacular. The only thing I kept thinking is, who has to clean all the lightbulbs?
Built by a team of more than 700 architects, former dictator Nicolae Ceausescu commissioned the structure. The neoclassical architecture is a tribute to totalitarian modernism.
The most surprising thing I learned…
Ruport Murdoch tried to purchase the Romanian Palace of Parliament in the 1990s. Ultimately, his offer was rejected, but I still found it interesting. I wondered if he wanted to shift his base of operations to Romania for tax breaks. But, the deal never materialized. Still, I think watching his succession obsessed family fettering about the building would have been comical.
Overall
The tours do not last all that long, but exploring the Palace of Parliament is definitely worth your time. It’s a bit like walking through a Cold War time capsule.
So, you want to visit Neuschwanstein Castle, Germany’s famous fairytale escape? There are many spectacular castles in Germany but this is an amazing trip that I highly recommend. I loved my time here, and I have a few suggestions to make your day even more epic.
Schedule Neuschwanstein Castle Tour months ahead of time.
If you do not contact the Neuschwanstein Castle staff ahead of time, there is a good chance that you will be denied entrance. This town is old school, and you will need to secure tickets several months ahead of time. Email the ticket office and request several dates and times. A few days later, you will receive information about what is available. A quick note, chances are that you will not receive the exact time slot that you request.
Include Hohenschwangau Castle in your trip.
Hohenschwangau is the other castle in the area. It is the palace where King Ludwig II (the former inhabitant of Neuschwanstein Castle) summered during his youth. It is a fairytale spectacle in its own right, and it is definitely worth your time. To make things easier, make sure Hohenschwangau is included in your initial booking.
Fussen to Neuschwanstein Castle
Most people think Neuschwanstein Castle is located in Fussen. Not true. Assuming you take a train from Munich (this is what most people do), buy a bus ticket to the town of Hohenschwangau upon arrival. You will see a pilgrimage of people doing the same thing, so it’s not confusing. Several thousand people visit daily, so it’s pretty difficult to mess this up.
Neuschwanstein Castle Tickets
Once you arrive in Hohenschwangau, walk along the road until you see the counter to exchange your confirmation for paper tickets. Be sure to print out your confirmation ahead of time. Trust me, this will make the entire process much easier.
Additionally, my suggestion is that you arrive early. I saw several groups arguing with people at the ticket counter, because they were late.
For many people (myself included), this is a dream destination. You don’t want to be stuck outside of the castle because of tardiness.
Fairytale forests
When you walk up to each palace, be sure to explore the idyllic woodlands. No matter if it is summer or winter, the surrounding areas are like something out of a dream.
Entry to Hohenschwangau & Neuschwanstein Castle
When you approach Hohenschwangau and Neuschwanstein Castle, look for the ticket scanner. A time is printed on your ticket, and if you are late, you will be out of luck. The scanners are unmanned and finding someone to plead your case to is an exercise in futility. So, if you keep an eye on the time, you will be fine.
Inside the Neuschwanstein Castle Tour
Both castles put you on a 35-minute tour, no exceptions. The guides dole out interesting information, and you will learn a great deal about the former Wittelsbach dynasty. Unless you are taking pictures of the view, inside photography is prohibited. I managed to snap a few photos from different windows that include a bit of the storybook interior.
At Neuschwanstein, there is a movie and a cafe at the conclusion of your tour. The food is basic, but something feels surreal about having a latte in King Ludwig II’s former home. He only slept here for nine nights, so having a snack in such glorious surroundings is pretty surreal.
Outside of Neuschwanstein
The insanely gorgeous scenery surrounding Neuschwanstein never gets old. The lake is pristine and deserving of the iconic chateau backdrops. Marie’s Bridge (Marienbrucke) sits outside of Neuschwanstein Castle, and it is frequently closed during the winter. The extra weight of the snow renders Marienbrucke too dangerous to cross. In the summer, the area becomes crowded. So, be careful that you aren’t jostled when walking across.
Overall: Neuschwanstein Castle Tour
An afternoon spent at Neuschwanstein is incredibly special. Indulge in the mythical romance of your surroundings. Additionally, researching the fabulous eccentricities of King Ludwig II on Google ahead of time will only enhance your experience. This is an epic day that will stay with you forever.
Playing host to art, graphics, design, and architecture, the German Modern Art Museum (the Pinakothek Der Moderne) is one of the largest contemporary art museums in the world. Different exhibitions rotate in and out of this futuristic building. The Pinakothek is always looking for progressive installations, and many of these artistic exploits are rather surprising.
A time of controversy at the German Modern art museum.
The architecture of this building is deceptive. The outside looks a bit sterile. Unceremoniously referred to as a cardboard box by locals, the extreme modernism of the Pinakothek was initially met with opposition. This space has been a constant source of friction for some time.
Why visit the Pinakothek Der Moderne?
The domed rotunda that anchors the building is spectacular and worth seeing. Additionally, concrete and glass dominate the landscape with giant windows that extend from the floor to ceiling.
The Audi Wall is a lot of fun, and it is a nice mix of form and functionality. The motorcycles displayed near the cars are beautiful. Also, the giant foot is quite interesting.
Artful underwear, really?
Some of the collections at the Pinakothek confused me a bit. For example, I struggled to call underwear hanging from a drying rack next to a laundry basket artistic. Of course, everything is subjective, and I understand this artist must have been commenting on life or pushing some type of boundary. However, it looked more like a college dorm room to me. Still, I appreciate nonconventional statements, because experimentation is the best way to grow.
A few things to know about the Pinakothek Der Moderne.
The Modern Art Museum in Germany does not accept credit cards, so be sure to bring euros with you. The security guards in Munich Museums are intense. And, if you bring a purse or bag with you that’s any bigger than your hand, you will be required to put it in a locker.
I am a big fan of solo travel, so I debated whether or not I should post this article. Ultimately, I decided that even though most people gravitate toward the wanderlust side of life, it is equally important to explore travel difficulties.
Why try solo travel?
I have always been a little bit of a loner, and I suppose that I have never understood that part of myself. Then again, that’s not important. I just mean that I am comfortable on my own.
On the flip side of lonely man’s blissful island is the shit hitting the fan. All of a sudden, you realize how much you want people near you that understand your quirks. This surprised me. And, unlike all the beautiful photos of people frolicking around on their ‘my vacation is cooler than yours on Instagram’ (and, yes, I indulge in that activity as much as anyone), this post is not about discovering the beauty of humanity while taking selfies in a foreign land. Nope, this is about the struggles. So far, this trip has had as many highs as it has lows – I guess it’s part of first-time solo travel mistakes.
On a train to Prague
At the moment, I am currently on a train to Prague from Vienna. Sounds pretty glamorous, right? Try it in the winter before the Christmas markets get going. Translation, the weather is windy and miserable. And, it gets dark early, like 4.30 pm. Not the best.
I have had crazy high moments, visiting the Hapsburg castles, and being the only person in the Imperial Royal Carriage Museum. That was amazing. Having the ability to linger in the Museum Quartier for as long as I wanted without having to worry if anyone was getting bored made me so happy. Sleeping in or getting up at 6 am and answering only to myself has been freeing. But, as the intense cold sets in, it feels lonely. Maybe I am learning things about myself, but I’m not sure that’s the appropriate phrasing.
The ups & downs of solo travel
Staying at swanky hotels as well as sketchy Air BNBs that didn’t look sketchy online has been in a word, interesting.
If you’re planning your own solo trip, it’s essential that you book your accommodation ahead of traveling. There are tons of different options, as you’ll see from Travel Resorts of America reviews. You don’t have to stay at hotels or Air BNB’s if you want to save a bit of money.
But, there has been more frustration than I anticipated. It is especially annoying, because I planned this trip down to the last detail, but you can not plan for everything. Like everyone on the planet, my entire life and ability to communicate with the outside world is on my phone. And, where is my phone? I was pick-pocketed at the Vienna train station.
The sad Chiclet
I took public transportation to the HBF (I was all proud of myself) from my last Air BNB. This was one of the more questionable apartments which only had one pillow that looked more like a sad Chiclet plopped in the middle of a shoddy piece of foam. Regrettable accommodations aside, finding the correct train was no small accomplishment, because it’s confusing AF here.
Pick pocketed abroad
Now, I’m on board, and my phone is not. The WiFi doesn’t work on my computer, so I can’t let my next host know what’s going on. I don’t know the exact address, and I can’t call an Uber without my phone. I tried texting from my computer, but the messages keep bouncing back to me. All the while, I am freaking out that I am unable to take pictures for this travel blog that I have been dreaming of writing properly for years. This is not the adventure that I signed up for….
At the moment, all I want is to fly home, but maybe that’s the point. Is this what getting out of your comfort zone really feels like? A bit confused, oddly scared, and alone? When you don’t speak the language, it’s tough.
Travel Solo: communication envy
Is all of this really about not having a phone? Losing communication digs into a weird place in your soul.
And, watching the locals sitting in front of me use their computers is beyond frustrating.
It’s all a little sideways, for now
Normally, I welcome the opportunity to experience new cultures, new foods while dining solo, and appreciate the nuances. However, when things go sideways, the longing for familiarity- even a kind smile sets in hard.
This is a much tougher trip than I thought. And, it gets dark early here. No wonder all the other travel bloggers are posting selfies in bikinis in Bali. Then again, I’ve always preferred being a contrarian…
Watching literally every person on this train use their cell phone reminds me that I can’t fix the situation now. I’m on a train to Prague, and not speaking the language is a major impediment. I am a stranger here, so this is on me.
Embracing my circumstances
And, this four plus hour train ride with literally nothing to do only highlights my sadness, my aloneness. I would give about anything for my phone, but I can’t have it. I’m not sure this is growth, but this is one of the realities of solo travel. But, this is not permanent, and I will figure things out. I always do.
Split, Croatia turned out to be quite different from what I expected. It’s the second largest city of the Dalmatian Coast, but it doesn’t quite have the dreamy appeal of its island neighbors, Hvar, Vis, and Trogir. Still, the area attracts throngs of tourists who usually go island hopping after spending time in the area.
Why visit Split?
If you are a Roman ruins junkie, then you will love this place. Constructed by the emperor, Diocletian’s Palace was built by the Roman dictator during the 4thcentury. Enormous in stature, the space looks more like a bastion. And, locals confirmed that Diocletian only used a small part of the space. Either the ruler suffered from paranoia, or he shrewdly kept his military forces close. Either way, the area seems to go on for days, and given the number of galleries and museums that inhabit the space, it’s a cool way to spend the day in Split.
What else is there to do in Split?
As with pretty much all of Croatia, there is a magical coastline with beautiful water. The huge harbor makes Split a convenient jumping off point for visiting other islands. It’s easy to hop a ferry to your next destination, but please note that you should book ahead of time in the summer. During the high season, boats book up quickly (it is one of Croatia’s best places to visit)
Additionally, my favorite activity is chartering a skippered boat to take you around to the various sea caves. I honestly think this is the best way to spend the day in Croatia. You don’t necessarily have to do this from Split. However, if you want to see the medieval city of Trogir or eat ridiculously fresh fish in Solta, departing from this location makes the most sense.
Overall
Split, Croatia is on the rise playing host to major music festivals during the summer. Diocletian’s Palace is fascinating, Split Restaurants are amazing and imagining how the emperor and castrum (the Roman military camp) lived is about the coolest civics lesson ever.
Sometimes, there is a location that you think everyone has visited but yourself. I felt this way about Costa Rica for the longest time. Now, that I have been to several provinces within the country including Papagayo, I get what all the fuss was about. A relaxed vibe, many options for Costa Rica beaches and pricing that doesn’t break the bank makes for a heavenly getaway. Or, as the locals might put it, pura vida.
Why visit The Peninsula Papagayo?
The laidback Papagayo culture is a wonderful escape from daily life. Locals are constantly saying ‘pura vida’ which means pure life.
This infectious concept of a ‘pure life’ goes far beyond its actual translation. Locals use this phrase for everything, including saying hello and goodbye. After about 2 minutes in Papagayo, I guarantee that you will be saying it as well.
Pura vida is about having a stress free life full of happiness. It means not letting negativity get you down. This philosophy is about dwelling on the good things in your immediate surroundings while simplifying your life.
More than that, pura vida exemplifies an optimistic state of mind that penetrates the soul of all who visit Papagayo. This philosophy just makes you smile, because the locals embrace it without an ounce of sarcasm. It’s inspiring. With any luck, you will continue to live the pura vida lifestyle long after your vacation ends.
So, what’s the food like?
The food in Papagayo is great. Outside of the hotel zones, there are well priced local joints serving up tasty fare. Please note, if you stay at a resort, you will need to book transportation to get into town. Your accommodations will be more than happy to help you arrange this.
Additionally, the resorts offer plenty of luxurious restaurants when you want a fancy night out in Papagayo.
Pro Tip: If you really want to feel like a rock star, book a private dinner on the beach at sunset at the Four Seasons. I hesitate to call anything a life altering experience, but this comes pretty close. Bonus, eating your dinner on Versace plates while digging your toes in the sand is the very definition of modern luxury. Just be sure to arrange this activity in advance, because it books up quickly.
What do you do in the Gulf of Papagayo?
Whether you want to soar along the treetops or swim with sharks, you will never have to look far to find your next adventure in Papagayo. Simply put, there is an embarrassment of riches to choose from in this coastal town.
When you think of Costa Rica, most people imagine the utterly unique rain forests. This is actually located in Arenal, not Papagayo. However, don’t worry, because this area is teaming with adventures. And, it might not be the rain forest, but there is certainly no shortage of zip lines in the area.
Beach life in Papagayo
The beaches on the Papagayo Peninsula are protected, so the waves never get too rough. It’s typically smooth enough for standup Paddle boarding (sup).
If you want to go scuba diving or snorkeling, you will need to take a boat trip, which is typical of pretty much every resort on the planet.
Monkeys Head (and, yes, the island resembles a primate’s profile) is a popular destination for scuba diving. After you finish your first tank, the surrounding islands have small caves you can walk through during low tide. Instead of just sitting on the boat, it’s nice to have something to do while your lungs equalize.
Bat Island is another dive site where bull sharks often turn up from May through September. The further out you go, the better the visibility. The water seems to be clearest from June through September. When I dove, the visibility was not great, but warm waters and my general love of scuba more than compensated.
Natural beaches are a bit of a rarity in the world of luxury resorts. The Andaz has a gorgeous beach that is kept completely free of outside influences. While I admit to loving high end stretches of perfectly groomed sand, this natural beach in Papagayo seduced me with unique, ecofriendly charms.
When should you visit Papagayo?
The weather is pretty awesome, as in, it’s almost always warm. It never snows, and temperatures don’t really drop off. It gets a touch windy in March, but it’s not a big deal. Actually, I think March has a much welcomed gentle breeze in the air. It’s not quite a trade wind, but it feels good.
Please note, the area is extremely dry from December until the beginning of April. Unfortunately, a lot of the lush vegetation dries out during this period. So, if you go zip lining at Witch’s Rock, the trees won’t have that picturesque green hue when you fly through the sky. On the bright side, you are virtually guaranteed a rain free vacation, making every moment in Papagayo ideal for the pool or beach.
And, if rain is your biggest concern during your Papagayo adventure, remember that September and October rack up the most precipitation by far.
The only month that might be a bit tricky is October, as this is the most humid time in Papagayo. To be fair, the surrounding months are a bit sticky as well. So, if the humidity really gets to you, then you will be happiest from December through April. Regrettably, I did not follow my own advice. However, I had such a good time that it ended up not mattering.
January – April
The dry season continues. It is very hot with little to no rain.
May – October
More precipitation and still warm.
November – December
The dry season starts. Weather continues to be hot.
Where should you stay in Papagayo?
With an abundance of resorts at different price points in Papagayo, you won’t be short on options. Here are the 2 places that I most recently stayed. By the way, I highly recommend both of them. Take a look…
The Four Seasons Resort Costa Rica
Everything here is ridiculously upscale. The restaurants are amazing, and the staff makes a huge fuss over you.
In general, I enjoy spa culture as much as the next person, but I don’t typically go crazy over spa vacations. The Four Seasons Papagayo might have changed my mindset. Huge facilities peddling fabulous treatments made me feel beautiful. I loved it so much that I went twice.
If you feel like splurging, go for a private villa. I opted not to, but I chatted with several guests at the pool who described their accommodations as “jaw dropping”.
As far as the regular rooms go, they are immaculate. Additionally, the staff is particularly attentive. For example, I sleep on as many pillows as I can wrestle up. I’m not kidding, and I have been like this since I was a little kid. Since the Four Seasons provides a pillow concierge, I ordered quite a few. The oversized snugglers were in my room immediately, and I acknowledge that it looks ridiculous (see the photo above). However, I was insanely comfortable.
Overall, the Four Seasons is an amazing hotel, but it’s not cheap. I only stayed for four days, and I enjoyed every glamorous second.
The Andaz Costa Rica Resort
This property is one of the newest in Papagayo, and it shows. Everything about this resort feels fresh and modern.
The pools are my absolute favorite thing about this place. While they are high tech, they seamlessly blend into the eco chic atmosphere. Those lucky enough to stay in villas have private plunge pools. While I did not have one; I can confirm that they certainly looked worth the splurge. I confess that I had a serious case of pool envy during my stay.
Overall, this sparkling resort is a great choice for Papagayo. Friendly and sophisticated, the Andaz sits on a beautiful property which I loved.
Please note, I was not paid for these reviews. I sincerely wanted to share my thoughts on these Papagayo hotels with you.
Transportation to Papagayo
Local transportation in Papagayo is not the best. Upon arrival, I think it is easiest to rent a car. However, if you aren’t comfortable driving in a foreign country, then be sure to prebook transportation ahead of time.
Plane
If you arrive by plane, it is easiest to fly into the Liberia Airport.
Car
If you are traveling around Costa Rica, chances are that you will arrive by car. Since, I spent time in several other locations prior to arriving in Papagayo, this is what I did
Please note, public transportation in Costa Rica is not great, so it’s best to rent a car or arrange a private car online before arrival.
When I visited, Uber was not available. However, it now operates in Costa Rica. Just realize that you might have trouble getting a driver to respond in some of the more remote areas. So, it is advisable to make sure Uber is available in the region that you are staying in ahead of time.
I was not quite sure what to expect from Bratislava. Located in Slovakia (which is an easy trip from Vienna or Budapest), the city is small, but it runs deep with culture. As much as there is a deep sense of history, that ideology appears to bump heads with modern sensibilities that favor nightclubs and inexpensive bars. Medieval with historical architecture that is as impressive as it is gothic, this city is on the rise. Here are 5 things to do Bratislava.
5. Bratislava Castle
Located across the Danube River from the old town, the fortress is a pretty quick walk up some impressive stairs. Wander around the fortifications and lose yourself in a bit of daydreaming about what it must have been like to be royalty in the stone or bronze age. Check out the view of the city from the different levels. It is impressive!
Pro Tip: Not as grand as other castles in Europe, touring the inside is not necessary to get a sense of this place. Save yourself a few euros and walk around the different courtyards and gates.
4. Cafe Culture
The pastry shops and cafes in the heart of the old town have surprisingly good java. This city takes coffee seriously and lingering in a café while people watching is a great way to spend the afternoon.
Pro Tip: There is no line for leaving a tip, so make sure to tell your server before your card is swiped through the machine. If you forget, just round up and leave cash.
3. St. Martin’s Cathedral
Gorgeous, gothic, and from the 13thcentury, this place is old. Dripping in grandeur, royal coronations were held here. Not quite as dramatic as other churches throughout Europe, there is something that feels welcoming about this space. Drop in and marvel at the stately arches.
Pro Tip: With no entrance fees, this place is easy to drop in for a few minutes. Bonus, it’s pretty much never crowded.
2. Cumil, a legend in Bratislava
Old town is brimming with statues that you can accidentally bump into or trip over. Cumil, perhaps a throwback to the KGB, is known as the watcher. Locals told me that he is taking it easy after spending his days scouring the sewer system. But, others insisted that he is a peeping tom. You decide what you think he is doing. Just be sure to look down, because he is literally popping out of a manhole cover.
Pro Tip: Local legends say that he will grant you a wish if you touch his hat and keep your desires a secret. It is worth a shot…
1. UFO Bratislava
It is funny, I thought I would have read more about this place, because it is amazing. The view from the observation deck provides a 360-degree view of the city. With Bratislava Castle and the Danube as the star attractions of your gaze, UFO is not to be missed. If you can only do one thing in Bratislava, do this! You will not regret it.
The elevator moves so quickly that it feels like it might go flying. Don’t worry, you will be fine. Also, disregard the entrance that looks a little, umm, suggestive. All of that stuff is superfluous, because UFO (Watch. Taste. Groove) is awesome. And, I’m still unclear how Watch. Taste. Groove translates into UFO. But, honestly, it doesn’t matter.
Pro Tip: After you have taken selfies on top of the observation deck, pop back downstairs for a cocktail (they have some serious mixology going on here). Or, go at night, and have a fancy dinner with the bright lights of Bratislava as your backdrop. Just be sure to make a reservation if you go in the evening.
