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settings) at MySql.Data.MySqlClient.MySqlPool.CreateNewPooledConnection() at MySql.Data.MySqlClient.MySqlPool.GetPooledConnection() at MySql.Data.MySqlClient.MySqlPool.TryToGetDriver() at MySql.Data.MySqlClient.MySqlPool.GetConnection() at MySql.Data.MySqlClient.MySqlConnection.Open() at ASP.agents3_agentslux_ascx.GetPhoto(String postID) in \\fs2-n01\stor1wc2dfw1\415337\www.vincentcruises.com\web\content\agents3\agentsLux.ascx:line 2368error: MySql.Data.MySqlClient.MySqlException (0x80004005): Authentication to host 'mariadb-008.wc2.phx1.stabletransit.com' for user '415337_blogvv' using method 'mysql_native_password' failed with message: User 415337_blogvv already has more than 'max_user_connections' active connections ---> MySql.Data.MySqlClient.MySqlException (0x80004005): User 415337_blogvv already has more than 'max_user_connections' active connections at MySql.Data.MySqlClient.MySqlStream.ReadPacket() at MySql.Data.MySqlClient.Authentication.MySqlAuthenticationPlugin.ReadPacket() at MySql.Data.MySqlClient.Authentication.MySqlAuthenticationPlugin.AuthenticationFailed(Exception ex) at MySql.Data.MySqlClient.Authentication.MySqlAuthenticationPlugin.ReadPacket() at MySql.Data.MySqlClient.Authentication.MySqlAuthenticationPlugin.Authenticate(Boolean reset) at MySql.Data.MySqlClient.NativeDriver.Open() at MySql.Data.MySqlClient.Driver.Open() at MySql.Data.MySqlClient.Driver.Create(MySqlConnectionStringBuilder settings) at MySql.Data.MySqlClient.MySqlPool.CreateNewPooledConnection() at MySql.Data.MySqlClient.MySqlPool.GetPooledConnection() at MySql.Data.MySqlClient.MySqlPool.TryToGetDriver() at MySql.Data.MySqlClient.MySqlPool.GetConnection() at MySql.Data.MySqlClient.MySqlConnection.Open() at ASP.agents3_agentslux_ascx.GetPhoto(String postID) in \\fs2-n01\stor1wc2dfw1\415337\www.vincentcruises.com\web\content\agents3\agentsLux.ascx:line 2368error: MySql.Data.MySqlClient.MySqlException (0x80004005): Authentication to host 'mariadb-008.wc2.phx1.stabletransit.com' for user '415337_blogvv' using method 'mysql_native_password' failed with message: User 415337_blogvv already has more than 'max_user_connections' active connections ---> MySql.Data.MySqlClient.MySqlException (0x80004005): User 415337_blogvv already has more than 'max_user_connections' active connections at MySql.Data.MySqlClient.MySqlStream.ReadPacket() at MySql.Data.MySqlClient.Authentication.MySqlAuthenticationPlugin.ReadPacket() at MySql.Data.MySqlClient.Authentication.MySqlAuthenticationPlugin.AuthenticationFailed(Exception ex) at MySql.Data.MySqlClient.Authentication.MySqlAuthenticationPlugin.ReadPacket() at MySql.Data.MySqlClient.Authentication.MySqlAuthenticationPlugin.Authenticate(Boolean reset) at MySql.Data.MySqlClient.NativeDriver.Open() at MySql.Data.MySqlClient.Driver.Open() at MySql.Data.MySqlClient.Driver.Create(MySqlConnectionStringBuilder settings) at MySql.Data.MySqlClient.MySqlPool.CreateNewPooledConnection() at MySql.Data.MySqlClient.MySqlPool.GetPooledConnection() at MySql.Data.MySqlClient.MySqlPool.TryToGetDriver() at MySql.Data.MySqlClient.MySqlPool.GetConnection() at MySql.Data.MySqlClient.MySqlConnection.Open() at ASP.agents3_agentslux_ascx.GetPhoto(String postID) in \\fs2-n01\stor1wc2dfw1\415337\www.vincentcruises.com\web\content\agents3\agentsLux.ascx:line 2368error: MySql.Data.MySqlClient.MySqlException (0x80004005): Authentication to host 'mariadb-008.wc2.phx1.stabletransit.com' for user '415337_blogvv' using method 'mysql_native_password' failed with message: User 415337_blogvv already has more than 'max_user_connections' active connections ---> MySql.Data.MySqlClient.MySqlException (0x80004005): User 415337_blogvv already has more than 'max_user_connections' active connections at MySql.Data.MySqlClient.MySqlStream.ReadPacket() at MySql.Data.MySqlClient.Authentication.MySqlAuthenticationPlugin.ReadPacket() at MySql.Data.MySqlClient.Authentication.MySqlAuthenticationPlugin.AuthenticationFailed(Exception ex) at MySql.Data.MySqlClient.Authentication.MySqlAuthenticationPlugin.ReadPacket() at MySql.Data.MySqlClient.Authentication.MySqlAuthenticationPlugin.Authenticate(Boolean reset) at MySql.Data.MySqlClient.NativeDriver.Open() at MySql.Data.MySqlClient.Driver.Open() at MySql.Data.MySqlClient.Driver.Create(MySqlConnectionStringBuilder settings) at MySql.Data.MySqlClient.MySqlPool.CreateNewPooledConnection() at MySql.Data.MySqlClient.MySqlPool.GetPooledConnection() at MySql.Data.MySqlClient.MySqlPool.TryToGetDriver() at MySql.Data.MySqlClient.MySqlPool.GetConnection() at MySql.Data.MySqlClient.MySqlConnection.Open() at ASP.agents3_agentslux_ascx.GetPhotoMetaData(String postID) in \\fs2-n01\stor1wc2dfw1\415337\www.vincentcruises.com\web\content\agents3\agentsLux.ascx:line 2416error: MySql.Data.MySqlClient.MySqlException (0x80004005): Authentication to host 'mariadb-008.wc2.phx1.stabletransit.com' for user '415337_blogvv' using method 'mysql_native_password' failed with message: User 415337_blogvv already has more than 'max_user_connections' active connections ---> MySql.Data.MySqlClient.MySqlException (0x80004005): User 415337_blogvv already has more than 'max_user_connections' active connections at MySql.Data.MySqlClient.MySqlStream.ReadPacket() at MySql.Data.MySqlClient.Authentication.MySqlAuthenticationPlugin.ReadPacket() at MySql.Data.MySqlClient.Authentication.MySqlAuthenticationPlugin.AuthenticationFailed(Exception ex) at MySql.Data.MySqlClient.Authentication.MySqlAuthenticationPlugin.ReadPacket() at MySql.Data.MySqlClient.Authentication.MySqlAuthenticationPlugin.Authenticate(Boolean reset) at MySql.Data.MySqlClient.NativeDriver.Open() at MySql.Data.MySqlClient.Driver.Open() at MySql.Data.MySqlClient.Driver.Create(MySqlConnectionStringBuilder settings) at MySql.Data.MySqlClient.MySqlPool.CreateNewPooledConnection() at MySql.Data.MySqlClient.MySqlPool.GetPooledConnection() at MySql.Data.MySqlClient.MySqlPool.TryToGetDriver() at MySql.Data.MySqlClient.MySqlPool.GetConnection() at MySql.Data.MySqlClient.MySqlConnection.Open() at ASP.agents3_agentslux_ascx.GetPhoto(String postID) in \\fs2-n01\stor1wc2dfw1\415337\www.vincentcruises.com\web\content\agents3\agentsLux.ascx:line 2368 See Why Costa Rica is Like No Place in the World, California Travel Agent Near Me-Gretchen Ode
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See Why Costa Rica is Like No Place in the World

Costa Rica is like no place in the world. From almost every vantage point, rainforest vistas tumble into picture-perfect inlets and coves that punctuate the shoreline.

With activities including canopy zip-lining, kayaking through mangrove estuaries, catamaran cruises, rafting, horseback riding, sea kayaking, hiking, birding AND local wildlife featuring monkeys, tropical birds, iguanas and sloths, there is no place like Costa Rica.

Please contact me for more ideas and to book your travel to Costa Rica today!

Costa Rica  - Popular locations and places to know



Costa Rica - Facts

1. Because Costa Rica is close to the equator, sunrise and sunset are at the same time every day. That's right 365 days a year!

2. It is the most bio-diverse country in the world with over 900,000 species of wildlife, 900 of them are birds. You're likely to catch a sighting in natural habitats, national parks, and volcanic areas.

3. Costa Rica's national anthem is played on every radio station daily at 7am.

4. It's the hummingbird capital of the world! There are over 50 species that call Costa Rica home.

5. Costa Rica is Spanish and translates to “rich coast.” Why? It's said that the country's founder, Christopher Columbus, believed the area was filled with precious metals.



Some of the top activities Costa Rica has to offer...

You want to visit Costa Rica! Awesome, we can help get you there. But one of the questions we’ll ask in helping you do so is what you’d like to see and do there. Relax? Explore nature? Seek adventure? All the above and more? Probably. There is just so much available, we’ll need to have a serious discussion on what your priorities are. To help we’ve put together a list of eight of the best activities to do during your visit. After reading let us know what’s on the top of yours!

8 Great Activities Costa Rica Has To Offer

1. Hiking – An activity that likely is top of mind when you think of Costa Rica and there certainly is no shortage of places to do so. Volcanoes, beaches, cloud forests – the choice is yours. Once that’s settled, think about the level of difficulty you’re comfortable with. These two things will help in the best recommendation. Additionally, it is suggested you consider guided hikes. Your expert leader will be able to provide general assistance and a trained eye to spot wildlife.

2. Surfing – Surfers from around the world frequent Costa Rica year-round because of its warm waters and waves. Choose your coast – Pacific or Caribbean, select your level of experience – beginner, intermediate, or advanced. We can even make some recommendations. If you’re in need of a lesson, they’re typically easy to find, even just by stepping foot on some beaches!

3. Snorkeling and Scuba – Wildlife sightings aren’t limited to land. There are 7,000+ marine species that can be found in Costa Rica’s surrounding waters. So, it is no surprise that it is on the top of the list for water activities. If you’re a snorkeler, think about if you’d like to do so by boat or shore. If a diver, we can help recommend dive sites. Just let us know your level of experience.

4. Whitewater Rafting – Costa Rica provides a stunning background for this adventure. There are a few areas that would be recommended if this is something you’d like to do. Beginner or advanced, let us know what intensity of rapids you’re comfortable with, and we can point you in the right direction. If the kiddos are up for the challenge, there are some options that are suitable for them too. It’s a great family activity!

5. Visit Waterfalls – Some of the most picturesque sights in Costa Rica can be found at its numerous waterfalls. After all, there’s something so magical about water cascading over a cliff to the pools below. There are plenty of options to choose from, just keep in mind a few things. Some falls will require a hike to access, entrance fees will vary, and some allow swimming while others do not. Also consider a guided tour if you won’t have access to a rental car during your stay.

6. Zip Lining – If you’ve Googled “excursions in Costa Rica” you’ve likely seen a picture of someone effortlessly flying over green canopy, rivers, and cliffs. It’s a very popular activity that can be found all over the country. You should expect a safety demo and a short hike. Then you’ll glide line by line, each getting a little longer than the one before. If you’re an adrenaline seeker this is a must do! If not, we wouldn’t recommend it. Do not invest money in something if you’re not 100% comfortable with.

7. Bird Watching – It isn’t unusual for people to travel to Costa Rica for this very reason. Some enthusiasts even build a whole itinerary around this activity. There is 900+ species and most often seen will likely be toucans, macaws, and hummingbirds. Because the country is so eco-diverse, make a couple of watching stops. Don’t forget your binoculars and camera!

8. Yoga – Yes, you read that right! Costa Rica is indeed a haven for yoga lovers. You could see or take a class quite literally anywhere – a resort, beach, volcano, or rainforest. If you’re a beginner, give it a try at least once. If you’re a wellness enthusiast and it’s your reason for travel, it belongs on your list. Think wellness retreat, group trip for your studio, location for instructor training or continuing education.

There you have it, some of the best that Costa Rica has to offer! Of course, there’s a ton more that isn’t listed, so if you have any questions let us know. If you’re ready to explore all that Costa Rica has to offer, please feel free to reach out!



23 Great Excursions & Tour Package Options For Costa Rica

The Monteverde Cloud Forest is the epicenter of cloud forest exploration and the pride and joy of ecotourism in Costa Rica. With over 400 unique bird species, Monteverde is an especially treasured destination for birding.

Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve Hike
Transfer to the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve for a hike through the high elevation forest with professional naturalist guides! Trek through the misty forests’ dense vegetation and majestic trees. You will see giant prehistoric tree ferns, trees covered with blooming bromeliads, and many of the species of birds that call Monteverde home. Keep an eye out for the shy Resplendent Quetzal bird!

Monteverde Sky Tram & Trek Zipline Tour
The tour starts with the Sky Tram, a ride on the cableway up to the platform where the Trek zip line adventure begins. This is one of the most extensive canopy tours in the country, with 2 very long cables and 11 cross-sectional zip lines. After zipping through the treetops, you will have time to unwind and enjoy the panoramic views from 2 observation decks. **Height and weight restrictions apply. Inquire for details.

Central Pacific Coast of Costa Rica
Jacó and the surrounding Central Pacific Coast of Costa Rica is peppered with spectacular national parks and beaches, offering a breadth of coastal experiences and wildlife viewing opportunities. A mountainous shoreline with strips of sandy beaches overlooking a sparkling expanse of blue are characteristics of the Central Pacific coast. The region is home to the popular surf town of Jacó, Playa Herradura, Carara Biological Reserve, and the Tarcoles River.

Tortuga Island Catamaran Cruise
Early this morning you will transfer by ground to Puntarenas. Enjoy a snack-type breakfast en route before boarding a catamaran for a cruise through the Gulf of Nicoya to Tortuga Island. Just 12 nautical miles from Puntarenas, Isla Tortuga is a sanctuary of white sand beaches and turquoise waters, home tropical birds, and flora typical of the Costa Rican Central Pacific area. Spend the day swimming, snorkeling, or just relaxing under the shade of palm trees on this beautiful island. A tropical lunch will be served on the island.

Horseback Riding with Ocean Views & Waterfalls
After your equipment and safety instructions, depart on your horseback journey to the waterfalls. Along the way you will see farms and get a closer look at nature as you ascend through the rainforest. You may be able to spot toucans, Scarlet Macaws, and White-faced capuchin monkeys. Upon arrival to the swimming area, your guide will set you up with fresh fruit and water, and you will have time to relax and enjoy the waterfalls.

Costa Rica’s south Caribbean coast
Costa Rica’s south Caribbean coast is lined with perfectly imperfect beaches swaying palm trees. The clear, turquoise water welcomes swimmers, sunbathers, surfers, and snorkelers. This off the beaten path area managed to fly under the radar of Costa Rica’s tourism boom. It continues to remain a pristine beach and rainforest destination with a unique, Caribbean culture of its own.

Snorkel & Hike Cahuita National Park
Cahuita National Park is a nature lover’s playground full of land and sea adventures. Start your adventure at the beach, climbing on board the boat for a ride out to the local coral reef. You will then have roughly 2 hours in two different parts of the national park to snorkel in the ocean, depending on the weather. After, fuel up with tropical fruit on the beach before heading out on a hike through the coastal rainforest. Since the park is home to an abundance of diverse wildlife, chances are good that you’ll spot monkeys, tropical birds, sloths, iguanas, poisonous dart frogs, and other interesting creatures.

Jaguar Rescue Center, Bri Bri Chocolate Tour, & Waterfall Hike
Start with an educational visit to the Jaguar Animal Rescue Center, which serves as a refuge and rehabilitation center for many local animals, including wild cats, monkeys, snakes, and sloths. Then, witness organic chocolate made from scratch by a member of the Bri Bri indigenous tribe— from plant to plate! The Bri Bri have a long history of chocolate production in the Puerto Viejo area. Finally, head about 30 minutes outside of town to a breathtaking Puerto Viejo Waterfall for a hike and refreshing swim.

Pacuare River Whitewater Rafting: Class III-IV
You’ll depart your Puerto Viejo hotel early in the morning for a drive to the Rios Tropicales Operations Center. Here you will enjoy a Costa Rican breakfast before heading to the put-in on the banks of the Pacuare River. Here, your guides will give you rafting & safety instructions. Then, you’ll begin to paddle 14 miles deep into the heart of one the primary rainforest. As you master the river’s wild rapids, you’ll pass through densely vegetated rainforest gorges and pristine waterfalls. After this adrenalinepacked adventure, you’ll return to the operations center to change and have lunch. Return to your hotel late in the afternoon.

Costa Ballena
The stretch of South Pacific Costa Rica coastline from Dominical to Ojochal, known as the Costa Ballena, is Costa Rica’s up-and-coming beach and rainforest destination. The South Pacific Coast is more remote than other areas of the country, sitting just north of the Osa Peninsula. Pristine rainforest, miles of ocean views, and solitude are some of the South Pacific’s most magnificent features.

Marino Ballena National Park Sea Kayak & Snorkel
This tour begins at low tide as the waves shift to one side of the Whale's Tail, which is a good spot for snorkeling. Paddling to this point will take between 30 to 45 minutes. The snorkeling portion of the tour will take between 45 minutes and 1.5 hours and will give you the opportunity to see a variety of fish and coral species, such as Giant Conch, starfish, Parrotfish Snapper, Damsels, eels, Moorish Idol, Surgeons and various types of coral species. Catch a wave and ride back into shore on your kayak. Then, enter a small mangrove forest in Ballena Marine Park where it is possible to spot sea birds, toucans, and some small reptiles.

Whale & Dolphin Combo Tour (seasonal)
Board a boat from Punta Uvita Beach and visit the famous Punta Uvita Whale’s Tail, Ballena Island, Tres Hermanas Islets, and Ventana Sea Caves. During the tour, you will search for Humpback Whales (seasonally) and two different species of resident dolphins. The boat will pass near the caverns of Ventanas Beach where you can observe wonderful rocky formations and the amazing caverns that were carved out by the ocean over thousands of years. **Tours during the dry season (January – Feb) include a short session of snorkeling on the reefs of the Marino Ballena National Park

Half-Day Sportfishing
Put your sport fishing skills to the test on this half day tour. The waters off the Osa Peninsula on the South Pacific coast of Costa Rica are rich in nutrients, and there is a great variety of fish such as mackerel, roosterfish, snapper, and tuna. The inshore fishing is done within a few miles off the shores of Bahia Ballena.

Manuel Antonio
Located on the Central Pacific coast of Costa Rica, Manuel Antonio remains one of the country’s best beach and rainforest locations. Manuel Antonio National Park is the main attraction of the region, with monkeys, tropical birds, and iguanas comprising a large portion of the wildlife population. From almost every vantage point, rainforest vistas tumble into picture-perfect inlets and coves that punctuate the shoreline.

Damas Island Estuary Boat Tour
Explore one of Costa Rica’s most unique environments from the comfort of a boat! As you glide through the Damas Island Mangrove Estuary, you might spot curious families of monkeys as they migrate across the mangrove ecosystem in search of food and adventure. You might also see tropical seabirds, turtles, a range of reptiles, and maybe even a caiman or two! You will wind through acres of pristine Costa Rican estuary as guides explain why the mangrove eco-structure so vital to Costa Rica and the world. This tour will end with a relaxing yet rewarding meal.

Damas Island Mangrove by Kayak
Paddle gently through the inland waterways of the Damas Island Estuary, one of the most unique eco-systems on the planet. This important ecological area is where the salt waters of the ocean meet the fresh waters of tropical rivers, creating a periodically submerged forest of hanging roots. On the banks, you might spot local inhabitants, like the Sally light foot crab, boa constrictors, silky anteaters, monkeys, lizards, seabirds, and sometimes even crocodiles!

Coastal Sea Kayaking
Paddle your way around the Manuel Antonio coastline on this active kayaking tour. Beginning at the port of Quepos, you will start your adventure by paddling south. From a vantage point only possible in kayaks, you’ll catch awe-inspiring glimpses of Manuel Antonio’s breathtaking cliffs as we follow along the coastline. Depending on the tide, you may stop off for a snack at a secluded beach. Then, paddle close to tropical rock formations, where shorebirds are known to nest. This fun half-day on the water is a great way to explore the area and get moving!

Rainmaker Reserve Hike
Located about 30 minutes from Manuel Antonio, this private rainforest reserve is a great place to experience local wildlife, like birds, butterflies, frogs, and lizards. Explore the Rainmaker trails with your guide, who will teach you about the history and biodiversity of the reserve and its inhabitants. After this, you'll have a chance to navigate the canopy bridge system and experience the rainforest from an elevated perspective.

Nocturnal Jungle Walk
This unique guided adventure is 2 hours to be a part of one of the most fascinating ecosystems in the country – the nocturnal tropical wet forest. Get in contact with many of the nocturnal inhabitants of the Wildlife Refuge, such as the kinkajou, the
armadillo, or various snakes! With more than 30 identified snake
species, you’ll learn about which are dangerous and about their
natural history. You’ll also have the chance to visit the Tropical
Aquatic Gardens, which is home to a variety of frog and toad
species.

Local Flavors Cooking Class
Learn how to prepare classic Costa Rican dishes on this local
food adventure! First, you’ll head to a farmers’ market in nearby
Quepos to find the best ingredients for your dishes. Then, visit a
nearby ranch to meet the culinary team and search the organic
garden for some final ingredients. Finally, begin preparing your
Costa Rican staples, following local recipes. You’ll cover
everything from tortillas to “picadillo” (minced meat and veggies
with spices).

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Gretchen Ode

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Hello travelers! I'm Gretchen Ode - proud mom of two, Marine veteran's wife, Chicago native, and passionate travel advisor bringing global adventures to life from my home base in beautiful San Jose, California. Serving San Jose and the greater Bay Area , I combine my personal travel experiences with professional expertise to create unforgettable journeys for families, couples, and adventure-seekers. My approach to travel planning is deeply personalized – I believe every vacation should be as unique as the travelers themselves. My Approach As your dedicated travel advisor, I transf...  Read More >>>

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8 Reviews & Success stories

7-day Taste of Ireland Tour

Anyone considering a trip and wanting someone to handle all the details, reach out to Gretchen Ode with Vincent Vacations. We highly recommend her - She is the absolute best! We had an amazing time and met so many fun people.  Ireland is so beautiful! Thanks again for handling all the details and making sure everything went smoothly on our trip.  We really appreciate it!
-Bonnie S.

California Trip

I can’t thank Gretchen enough for the incredible help she gave us in planning our recent trip to La Jolla, CA. I reached out to her last minute, completely overwhelmed by the endless hotel options and unsure where to even begin. Within no time, Gretchen stepped in with her trademark calm, professionalism, and deep knowledge of California — and turned the whole experience around for us.


She quickly found us the perfect hotel in a fantastic part of La Jolla. My son loves the San Diego Padres and we were visiting for a game, and this was a great location to be near the city but also away from the hustle and bustle.


What really stood out was how effortlessly Gretchen handled everything. Her recommendations were spot-on, and she made sure every detail was taken care of. It was such a relief to have someone with her expertise and local insight guiding us, especially when we were crunched for time.



If you're planning a trip — especially to California — and want someone who truly knows the area and genuinely cares about creating a great experience, Gretchen is the one to call. We’re so grateful and already looking forward to planning the next getaway with her help!


-Amanda G.

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Gretchen was incredible to work with when planning our family trip last month. When we started planning, I had so many questions and wasn't exactly sure which location we wanted. Gretchen took the time to search out numerous deals and helped us land on the best one for our family. She answered every question I had and took the time to make sure I felt comfortable with our decision. She also communicated with us during and after to make sure our experience was everything it should be. Her vast knowledge of locations, resorts and excursions makes her a huge asset when planning travel. I cannot recommend her enough, and we will absolutely be using her again from now on when we travel.
-Ashley P.

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