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Jacó beach leads accessible tourism

Early in 2019, a new wheelchair ramp was installed on Jacó beach in the Playa Madrigales section.  The ramp measures 63 meters long (206.70 ft.) and was created from 100% recycled sustainable plastics.  Locals collected 420,000 #5 plastic lids and 521 kilograms of #4 plastic bags for the project.  Thousands of Costa Ricans participated in the 7-month long collection project.  As a result, 1,361 kilograms (3,000 pounds) of recycled plastic material was repurposed into something new!  However, the new wheelchair ramp is only a part of making the beach accessible.<

Your essential 5-day beach vacation packing list

Minimalist packing requires serious planning. Begin with a sturdy, wheeled carry-on because the smaller the suitcase, the less you will pack. Be practical and pack only items that you know you will wear. Plan outfits that allow you to mix and match, like using solids and neutrals for base items such as tank tops, shorts and skirts. Pack multi-use items that have many functions like a sarong that can become a scarf, beach cover-up and even a beach blanket! Take a little time to lay out every piece of clothing so you can plan your outfits and determine the best way to reuse pieces. And finally, roll most of your clothing to help prevent wrinkles and stash smaller items like underwear and socks inside shoes to conserve space.
• 3 shirts
• 2 shorts/skirts
• 2 dressy options (remember to mix & match and use accessories)
• 2 bathing suits
• 1 cover-up
• Beach hat
• 1 athletic outfit
• 1 sleeping outfit
• 1 pair flip-flops
• 1 pair sneakers
• 1 pair dressy shoes
• Socks
• Underwear
• Accessories such as scarves, jewelry
• Toiletries – remember the 3-1-1 rule: one 1-quart bag with liquids 3.4 oz. or less
• Reading material (a Kindle or iPad with dowloaded content is a GREAT space-saving item!)<

Why rent a room…rent the WHOLE hotel!

It used to be that only celebrities hiding from paparazzi or wealthy foreign royals would buy out every room in a hotel, but many people have found renting an entire hotel can be just the right answer for hosting a family reunion, a small wedding or private corporate event. A small boutique hotel can easily offer the privacy and distinction necessary for your event, so why rent a room…rent the WHOLE hotel! For instance, imagine the festive experience of renting out an 18-room boutique hotel for a family reunion or wedding. How convenient and accessible for guests and hosts alike. And it’s probably more affordable than you think. Personalizing your experience is easy by booking special services like custom catered menus, excursions to local attractions and adventures, and local live entertainment. And adding a professional photographer is the perfect way to record your big event! Whether it’s luxurious style or rustic charm, Bird of Paradise Hotel Jaco is uniquely qualified to offer you the private, exclusive space necessary to make it the ULTIMATE gathering. Contact us for a custom quote at reservations@birdofparadisehotel.com, or call us locally at (506) 4703-0579 and from the USA at (305) 396-3011.<

Boutique hotels in Jaco can be budget-friendly

Many travelers today are searching for that one-of-a-kind stay that only a small boutique hotel can provide. Believe it or not, boutique hotels in Jaco can be budget-friendly. Travelers looking for that “genuine” experience are attracted to the personalized service and cozy feel that is often lacking from a stay at a large chain hotel. Seeking something fresh and different, many travelers now look beyond the cookie-cutter standardization of large hotel brands. They are drawn to unique hotels located in historic or re-purposed buildings. Quirky or uncommon spaces that can offer unusual architecture, exclusive perks and authentic staff.<