Costa Rican Adventure and 2025-2026 Group Trips
Out of my Comfort Zone with Costa Rican Trails
Last week, I had the opportunity to travel to Costa Rica with our GTN preferred partner, Costa Rican Trails. Some of you might wonder why someone would use a guide for a beach vacation. While Costa Rica offers plenty of relaxation if you go looking for it, the real draw is the beautiful natural landscape and the opportunity to mix in plenty of activity without being stuck in a gym. We zip-lined, climbed, hiked, searched for the largest mammal in Costa Rica, saw a newly discovered frog, lived a day as a Sabanaro, and finally, spent a day on the water and snorkeled. When we talk about the un-Googleable experiences, this is what we mean. We had a skilled naturalist with us every step of the way who could easily spot snakes, frogs, monkeys, and even sloths.
There’s something about doing things outside of your comfort zone that makes you better at your life at home. While I’d consider myself a seasoned hiker and swimmer, I’d never zip-lined, and I had not been on a horse since fifth-grade camp before last week. I think I suitably hid my terror, and I’m so happy I didn’t let it get the best of me. It has made me more prepared to take some low-stakes risks at home. Hey, if I didn’t know that I knew how to ride a horse, what other skills might I have that I’ve been too afraid to discover? I can’t wait to find out!
Meghann
2025 and 2026 Group Trips
Travel with your Bestés - Girls Trip 2025: Join us on the Virgin Voyages Valiant Lady from June 20, 2025-June 25, 2025, for the Dominican Daze itinerary. While we designed this trip last year to accommodate our teacher friends, the trip is a “come one, come all” experience. All ages are welcome, except those who are under 18 because Virgin Voyages is adults only. Yes, you heard that right. No kids on these cruises. It’s just one of the many reasons we love Virgin, along with all essential drinks, no restaurant upcharges, no complicated drinks packages, and included fitness classes. Find out more by clicking the link below. If you are interested, please email Meghann at Meghann@bestetravel.com.
Travel with your Bestés - Flavors of Portugal and Spain - Ama Waterways October 17, 2026-October 24, 2026
Set sail in Porto, the beautiful “City of Bridges” and gateway to the Douro River Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with rambling vineyards and charming quintas, which cling to the steep sides of the river. Taste wines from these vineyards and discover the timeless traditions of Portuguese winemaking throughout your journey. Visit Castelo Rodrigo, the “White Village”; enjoy an immersive lunch at a quinta in Pinhão; see Lamego, one of Portugal’s most important pilgrimage sites; and marvel at a centuries-old Portuguese monastery. Historic places, unspoiled beauty and distinctive wines are yours to be enjoyed as you savor the flavors of Spain and Portugal. If you want to join Kim on this sailing, please email her at Kim@bestetraveldesign.com.
Details Coming Soon - Travel with your Bestés: Wild Wonders Cruise from Peru to Panama from 4/8/2026-4/17/2026 with an optional post-cruise itinerary in Panama.
From Lima's historic center to Panama City's skyline, this expedition showcases South America's diversity. Cruise north along Peru's desert coast dotted with geoglyphs. Discover Ecuador's markets and plantations before venturing into Colombia's lush rainforests. A jungle river cruise in untamed Darién offers exotic wildlife encounters. Experience South America's Pacific coast on this unforgettable voyage, from ancient cultures to tropical wilds.
If you’re interested in this exciting Swan Hellenic Itinerary, please email Meghann at Meghann@bestetravel.com, and she will set up a call as soon as pricing information is available!
What’s cooking?
Pumpkin soup is a staple in many Costa Rican meals. Spicy and comforting, it was perfect during the rainy season in Costa Rica. Now that things are cooling down here, we’ll be cooking this up. We like this recipe because her inspiration also came from a trip to Costa Rica. (Serving in a tiny pumpkin not required).
