{"id":17620,"date":"2011-10-11T16:00:40","date_gmt":"2011-10-11T21:00:40","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/www.orbitz.com\/blog\/?p=17620"},"modified":"2018-03-12T12:01:29","modified_gmt":"2018-03-12T17:01:29","slug":"buffet-line-to-zip-line-all-inclusive-adventures","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.orbitz.com\/blog\/2011\/10\/buffet-line-to-zip-line-all-inclusive-adventures\/","title":{"rendered":"Buffet line to zip line: All-inclusive adventures"},"content":{"rendered":"
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In Costa Rica, some days you\u2019re the monkey, some you\u2019re the sloth. Credit: AlphaTangoBravo\/Adam Baker.<\/p><\/div>\n

By A<\/em>my Drew Thompson<\/em><\/p>\n

When it comes to all-inclusive resorts<\/a>, your inner passive vacationer\u2014plied by luxury (and, let\u2019s face it, laziness)\u2014has a distinctive advantage in the war for your getaway over your inner Animal Planet host. You know, that ballsy little voice that surfaces while you\u2019re on the couch watching some fisherman-cum-biologist battle an epic monster in a primordial lagoon. \u201cI\u2019d totally<\/em> do that,\u201d it pledges, fearless, \u201c… if I could just get to the rainforest.\u201d<\/p>\n

Well, it\u2019s time to put up or shut up, because Costa Rica vacations<\/a> deliver both. Explore the lush wonders of the canopy all morning. Have three desserts and a massage that night. It\u2019s the ultimate in dichotomous vacationing.<\/p>\n

The region of Guanacaste comes equipped with a stunning shoreline that climbs into dense rainforest and mountain ranges culminating in a chain of volcanoes, many of which are open for closer inspection via the nation\u2019s superb national park system. And although zip lines were initially developed by scientists interested in studying the canopy without disturbing its wildlife, they\u2019ve since become the most popular means by which tourists can do the same, whizzing happily from platform-to-platform. Those less enthused by carabiners can opt for tours via sky-walk where available.<\/p>\n

Even in the wild, comfort abounds. Guests at the Barcelo Langosta Beach<\/a> can enjoy \u201cnature\u201d while lounging in the company ofiguanas, coatis and a small contingent of howler monkeys who respectfully share their space. Venture to the surf town of Tamarindo to hang ten (or chill and absorb the laid back vibe, sans risk). A stone\u2019s throw away, the sumptuous Westin Resort and Spa \u2013 Playa Conchal<\/a> boasts a location on one of the region\u2019s most exotic beaches. Costa Rica\u2019s northwest Pacific is primo for divers, and patrons of the Occidental Grand Papagayo<\/a> can opt for scuba clinics in the safety of the pool before venturing oceanward.<\/p>\n

Little voice still taunting? No worries. Area sportfishing is unparalleled (particularly from May to September) and skilled locals will help you hook the big one for a photo-op. In keeping with the nation\u2019seco-tourism policies, Animal Planet rules apply: catch and release is the rule.<\/p>\n

Related resources<\/strong><\/p>\n