On the Bright Side

Have you been wanting to get up and go, but don't want to lose money if you have to change your plans due to a continued pandemic?  Well, Travel Zoo (click the link) has many special deals available for tropical and other destinations. The best part? Other than deep discounts, there are travel dates well into 2021 AND you can change your dates or get a credit for another trip with the same provider. So, dust off those flipflops and thongs and let's go somewhere!

Costa Rican Connection

Costa Rica is a surprising reprise for the gay traveler. There are gay and gay-friendly accommodations (including the spectacular Hotel Villa Roca in the video), gay bars and clubs and a host of tourist activities that will keep you occupied during your stay in this beautiful Central American destination on the Caribbean sea. Check out the list of things HERE you will find when you visit gay Costa Rica.

Costa Rican Charmer

This handsome young Costa Rican can be found at UOMOTV.COM

Spring Break Costa Rica

Costa Rica's rain forests, volcanoes and other natural wonders have made it one of the hottest adventure-travel destinations in Latin America. Now Gate 1 has made visiting this country affordable with this new Fly and Drive package that includes accommodations in 3 cities, airfare and week-long SUV rental. At $499, this deal is at least $200 less than similar packages in the market.

The Fly and Drive package includes:
Roundtrip airfare to San Jose, Costa Rica (please see departure cities below)
6 hotel nights: 2 in San Jose, 2 in Arenal, 2 in Monteverde
7-day 4x4 SUV mini / manual car rental with unlimited mileage
Daily breakfast
Airline fuel surcharges

The $499 special is valid for departures on April 30; May 7, 14 and 21. Other dates through October are +$20 & up.
Departure cities:Miami ... $499; Boston, Chicago ... from +$18; Washington ... from +$28; New York ... from +$48; Los Angeles ... from +$200.

Note: These are the current best available add-on prices and are subject to availability at the time of booking. Call Gate 1 for more information and assistance with booking from other departure cities.
Click here for full details and to book with Gate 1 Travel. Or call 800-682-3333 to reserve over the phone. Additional airport taxes of approximately $63 apply. Costa Rica departure taxes of $26 and car rental taxes and fees are extra and payable locally.

COSTA RICAN BEAUTY

Greivin is a former Mr. University Of Costa Rica

COSTA RICA HOTELS

Here are some accomodations to consider when staying in Costa Rica.

Hotel Joluva, in San Jose, is a small gall Bed & Breakfast, centrally located in gay-friendly Barrio Amon neighborhood. It is walking distance to many gay venues. Nothing fancy, rooms from $30 dollars, studios from $60 dollars.

Colours Oasis Resort is an upscale gay hotel with a bar, pool, deck and English-speaking staff. A cab ribe from downtown San Jose. Cable TV and breakfast is included. Rooms from $59 dollars, apartments from $169 dollars.

Hotel Del Mar, in Manuel Antonio, is basic but comfortable. The gay-owned hotel is walking distance to the beach and national park. Rooms from $40 dollars and up.

Big Rubys La Plantacion is the biggest all-gay hotel in Manuel Antonio. It has a pool, jacuzzi and a range of accomodations from $65 dollars and up.

CAN YOU CUMBIA?

Costa Rica is often said to feel like paradise. It has lush jungles, spectacular beaches, abundant wildlife and varied landscapes.

For gay travelers in particular, Costa Rica has gained a well-earned reputation as a comfortable place to visit. The discos may not rival those in New York, but where else can you climb a volcano with your lover during the day, then watch a drag show at night? It is recommended you start your evening at Cockatoo. This is a mainstay in San Jose and you can find out where to go from there. Their number is 506-777-5143.

Costa Rica has a bit for everyone. Spend time in the jungle, on the beach and in the city. Weary travelers can relax, or otherwise, at Sauna Hispalis. Some tour operators offer all-gay tours, but it is said to be easy enough to set one up on your own. You will meet plenty of gay people along the way. Ask them about Club LaAvispa or Club O.

One can fly into the capital, San Jose. It has charming architecture, a lively gay nightlife and a couple of nice museums. If you feel adventurous then head to Lake Arenal, a couple hours out of the city and high into the rainforests.

The Pacific coast is hot and sunny during dry season. Here you will find sandy beaches and national parks for hiking or viewing wildlife. There is also a bit of gay life here and a gay beach. The gay, clothing-optional, beach at Manuel Antonio has a beautiful waterfall. The beach, called La Playita, offers shady palm trees. Ask the locals to assist with access unless you know how to watch the tides.