🌿 Oslo, Norway — A City Designed for Living WellOslo offers a glimpse into the future of urban travel. Much of the city center is car-free, public transportation runs largely on electric power, and walking or cycling feels natural rather than challenging.
Sustainability in Oslo is not decorative — it shapes daily life. Neighborhoods feel calm and intentional, green spaces are integrated into the urban fabric, and the city’s rhythm encourages presence instead of hurry.
Travel insight: Exploring Oslo on foot or by bike reveals how thoughtful design transforms the travel experience from sightseeing into living.

🔄 Aalborg, Denmark — Quiet Innovation Beneath the SurfaceAalborg proves that sustainability does not need to announce itself loudly. This smaller Danish city uses advanced systems that recycle waste heat from data centers to warm homes, reducing energy use while improving daily comfort.
Bike lanes, efficient public transport, and locally sourced food are simply part of everyday life. Hotels and restaurants often share their sustainability efforts openly, creating a sense of shared responsibility rather than obligation.
Why it stands out: Aalborg turns efficiency into elegance and shows how innovation can feel human and approachable.

🌴 Singapore — Where Urban Design Meets NatureSingapore reimagines what a modern city can look like. Vertical gardens, rooftop green spaces, and carefully preserved parks soften the skyline and blur the line between nature and architecture.
Known as a “Garden City,” Singapore invests heavily in water recycling, green buildings, and car-lite infrastructure. The result is a city that feels vibrant without being overwhelming — efficient, walkable, and surprisingly serene.
Local experience: Early morning walks through Gardens by the Bay or along the Southern Ridges reveal the city at its most peaceful and poetic.

🚴 Sydney, Australia — Sustainability with a Coastal Soul
Sydney blends urban life with nature effortlessly. The city runs municipal operations on 100% renewable electricity and continues expanding green corridors and tree canopies throughout its neighborhoods.

Walking paths, cycling routes, and accessible public transportation encourage exploration beyond the iconic landmarks. Beaches, coastal trails, and outdoor cafés shape a lifestyle that feels both active and grounded.

Beyond the postcard: The Bondi to Coogee coastal walk offers ocean views, quiet moments, and local cafés that celebrate seasonal, sustainable fare.

🌱 Belfast, Northern Ireland — A City Reimagined Through Sustainability
Belfast is experiencing a thoughtful transformation. Sustainability plays a visible role in its revival, from net-zero hotels built with recycled materials to electric public transportation and community-driven green initiatives.

Creativity, resilience, and environmental responsibility intersect throughout the city. Visitors experience a place that honors its history while actively shaping a more conscious future.
Insider perspective: Locally guided walking tours focused on regeneration projects provide meaningful context and connection.

Why Green Cities Matter More Than Ever
Green cities offer more than eco-friendly credentials. They provide space to breathe, slower rhythms, and opportunities for deeper cultural connection. Cleaner streets, efficient transportation, and thoughtful design change how travel feels — calmer, more human, more intentional.
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These destinations reflect a shift in values. Travel is no longer about consuming places quickly, but about engaging with them respectfully and thoughtfully.

Traveling Forward with Purpose

Conscious travel begins with informed choices. Green cities align beautifully with slow travel, boutique hotels, and locally rooted experiences that support communities while minimizing environmental impact.

Designing journeys to these destinations requires insight, care, and trusted local partnerships. That’s where thoughtful planning makes all the difference.

Ready to explore cities that reflect your values in 2026?
I’d love to help you design a journey that feels meaningful, balanced, and beautifully aligned with the way you want to experience the world. 🌿✈️

Where My Clients Traveled This Year

One of the greatest joys of my job is seeing my clients explore the world with confidence, excitement, and wonder.

In 2025, my amazing travelers journeyed to:

🌍 Cuba
🌍 Spain
🌍 Brazil
🌍 Uruguay
🌍 Curaçao
🌍 Morocco
🌍 Italy
🌍 A Danube River Cruise
🌍 And many more journeys in between

And I’m thrilled to share that my Latin Dance Cruise 2026 is already sold out — proof that travel dreams are alive and stronger than ever!

Looking Ahead: 2026 Is Already Filling With Adventure

Next year, I’m already planning unforgettable travel experiences for clients and my own group adventures, including:

✨ Ireland
✨ Italy
✨ Galapagos Islands
✨ Argentina
✨ Brazil
✨ Colombia

If one of these destinations is calling your name… consider this your sign.

🎁 What to Expect on This Unique Holiday Voyage

• Onboard training sessions: As a travel advisor, I’m scheduled for two exclusive onboard training sessions with AmaWaterways, so I’ll be learning even more to bring back to you — the best cabin types, excursion choices, ship features, and seasonal travel insights.
  
• Christmas market charm: Picture glowing lights, handcrafted holiday treats, mulled wine in charming squares, and riverside towns dressed in seasonal splendor — we’ll be immersed in that merry atmosphere.
  
• The Lower Danube & the Iron Gates: This route sails through Hungary, Croatia, Serbia, Bulgaria, and Romania (or vice versa) and takes us through the dramatic Iron Gates gorge — one of Europe’s most breathtaking natural wonders. 
  
• Sailing together: Watching my husband experience his first river cruise will bring extra joy, and I’ll capture and share those moments along the way.
  
• Invitation-only elegance: Being part of an exclusive professional group (ASTA Verified Travel Advisors) means this sailing may include enhanced events, behind-the-scenes insights, and connect me to the latest from AmaWaterways — which benefits YOU when you plan your next cruise.
  

🌍 Why You Should Be Thinking About a Holiday River Cruise
River cruising during the holiday season offers an intimate, personalized experience.  Every day you dock in a new town, step off into a festive market or a historic city centre, and return to the comforts of the ship for fine dining, onboard entertainment, and world-class service.  With AmaWaterways, you get luxury, ease, and culture all wrapped into one magical voyage.

Whether it’s your first river cruise or you’re a seasoned sailor, this route is ideal for discovering authentic destinations, weaving history and holiday cheer together.

📣 Follow My Journey — And Let’s Plan Yours
I’ll be sharing daily updates, behind-the-scenes moments, Christmas market magic, and the Iron Gates scenery on Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn — from the moment we board to the final farewell wave. 

Follow me @SheylaAdventureTravel to “sail along” virtually with us!

And if you’re inspired to plan your own AmaWaterways river cruise, perhaps a Christmas Market sailing, a Lower Danube discovery, or any of their elegant European routes, let’s connect.  I’ll bring you the expertise I’ll gain on this voyage, first-hand insights, and help tailor your next luxury river cruise.

→ Contact me today at info@sheylaadventure.travel or send me a trip request HERE to start planning.  Because while this particular sailing is invitation-only, there are many other departures of this route, and I know just how to guide you to the best value, timing, and experience.

🎁 Don’t miss out on the holiday magic — let’s make your next river cruise the one you’ll remember forever.

Day 1: Arrival in London & First Impressions
Our British Airways flight touched down on time on Thursday, November 13th. The service was excellent — smooth, friendly, and comfortable. We sat in the exit row, which gave us plenty of legroom, although we couldn’t keep personal items at our feet during takeoff. No coats, blankets, or bags meant I felt chilly at first, but the warm vegetarian meal made up for it. After a little nap mid-flight, we were ready for London!

Immigration was surprisingly fast thanks to the new digital scanners. After a long walk to baggage claim, we waited a bit for our driver, who wasn’t yet at the meeting point. Tip: use the restroom before leaving the airport. The drive into the city can easily take 90 minutes due to traffic.

Checking Into the Meliá White House Hotel
I had requested early check-in at the Meliá White House, and luckily a room was ready. Our Deluxe Double was modern and clean, though a bit tight for two people — something I’ll keep in mind for future clients. The staff was warm, and the food was excellent. I booked half-board so we wouldn’t need to hunt for dinner after long sightseeing days, and that was a great decision.
Although I planned a site inspection, time was too short. Still, I captured photos of the main public areas that I’ll share later.

5-Hour Walking Tour of London
After a quick 45-minute nap, we met our guide, Nicolas, an actor turned storyteller who truly brought London to life. We explored major highlights and ended at a small Christmas market near the London Eye. The early sunset surprised me — by 3:30 pm the sky was already dimming — and exhaustion finally won. We tipped our guide and took a taxi back to the hotel.
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Dinner at the hotel was delicious, and by 7:30 pm we were asleep, ready for an early wake-up for Stonehenge.

Day 2: A Wet Morning at Stonehenge & Exploring Kensington
We woke to a rainy and chilly morning, but Stonehenge still held its quiet magic. Hearing stories of its origins — mysterious, mythical, perhaps celestial — was worth the journey. Walking among these ancient stones felt humbling.

Lunch at the Stonehenge Café warmed us up, and by 2 pm we were back in London.
The Natural History MuseumOur driver mentioned that the Natural History Museum was right where he dropped us off, so we decided to go. WOW. The architecture alone is worth the visit — soaring arches, detailed stonework, and a sense of stepping back into time. We explored for about an hour before walking back to the hotel, enjoying the sights and staying warm through movement.

Day 3: Fashion Streets, River Views & Holiday Magic
For our final full day, we created our own walking tour, starting with spots we missed earlier: Marble Arch, the markets, London Bridge, and St. Paul’s Cathedral.
One of my favorite surprises was stumbling onto a gorgeous high-fashion street, lined with luxury brands dressed in holiday lights and décor. Crowds gathered to take photos — and yes, I joined them!

Hop-On Hop-Off Bus + Thames River Cruise
At the market, a booth advertising the hop-on hop-off bus with a Thames River cruise caught my eye. After two hours of walking, it sounded perfect.

We sat on the upper deck for the views, but it was cold! The audio commentary could have been more informative, offering only basic facts between songs. Still, it was a relaxing way to see the city.

We hopped off near Tower Bridge and boarded the river boat. Again, we braved the top deck — and it was worth it. A live guide pointed out landmarks as the city lit up around us. Before boarding, we grabbed hot chocolate and pastries from a kiosk and even made a (paid!) restroom stop — London’s public bathrooms are monitored and payable by credit card.

The cruise began at the Tower of London and ended near Big Ben, glowing beautifully against the night sky.
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A taxi took us back to the hotel, letting us admire even more Christmas lights along the way. Dinner was a comforting buffet: salad, salmon with rice, and steamed vegetables.

Final Thoughts on London
On November 16th, we departed at 5:30 am for our flight to Romania, and looking back, I can confidently say: three days is not enough! To truly savor London — its history, artistry, museums, palaces, parks, and neighborhoods — I would recommend five days minimum.
Even so, visiting before the holidays was special. The Christmas markets, twinkling lights, and festive window displays gave the city an extra touch of magic.

I also learned more about life in London — many locals rent and share homes because of the high cost of living. It’s a vibrant, multicultural place full of energy, creativity, and resilience.

And my personal highlight?
While standing on The Mall, with Buckingham Palace behind me, our guide snapped the perfect photo — and moments later King Charles himself was driven past us on his way to his private residence. What a treat!

Would I Recommend London? Absolutely.
London is dynamic, historic, walkable, and full of surprises. Whether you visit during the festive season or the warmth of summer, it’s a destination that welcomes you with open arms.

If you’d like to plan your own London adventure — including guided tours, hotels, and seasonal experiences — I’d love to help curate the perfect itinerary.
📩 Contact me: info@sheylaadventure.travel
🧭 Start your journey

A Scenic Start Through Switzerland
My Viking Rhine Getaway began with a breathtaking train ride through Switzerland from Milan on October 16th.  The journey itself felt like a dream — gliding past shimmering lakes, mountain villages, and green valleys that looked like postcard scenes.
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I arrived at the Basel train station, where my dear friend Kirsten met me.  She had been exploring Switzerland on her own before joining me for the cruise, so we already had stories to share before even boarding the ship!  After a few funny moments figuring out Swiss traffic signs and turns, we finally arrived at the port, where Viking’s crew greeted us with their signature warm hospitality.

Once we checked into our cabins and enjoyed a delicious lunch, we joined a guided walking tour of Basel.  Our local guide shared fascinating stories about the city’s history, architecture, and the hundreds of charming public fountains — all filled with drinkable water!

Later, we explored on our own, crossing the river to take a photo by the “Basel” sign.  To our surprise, a local band nearby was playing Latin music!  Of all places, I never expected to dance in the streets of Switzerland — but of course, I did! 💃 That evening, we set sail — ready for the adventures ahead.

🌲 Day 2: The Black Forest & Breisach, Germany
The next morning brought us to the Black Forest, a place of magic and mystery.  The scenery was enchanting, with rolling hills, dense greenery, and the sound of waterfalls.  I learned that many of the original trees are gone due to historic deforestation, but the forest continues to thrive with replanting efforts.

We even watched a local baker prepare a traditional Black Forest cake, and I loved learning about the regional “Air Spa” concept; doctors here actually prescribe forest walks to reduce stress and improve health.  I took a deep breath and thought, What a wonderful kind of therapy. 🌿

In the afternoon, we explored the quaint town of Breisach, perched on the Rhine across from its French sister city, Neu-Breisach.  After lunch, we wandered up to a beautiful cathedral, then discovered a peaceful garden filled with flowers, local honey, handmade soaps, and breathtaking views of the river below.  It was the perfect little pause before returning to the ship for our evening port talk and dinner.

​🏰 Day 3: Strasbourg, France – Romance and Resilience
Strasbourg was one of my favorite stops.  This UNESCO World Heritage city blends French elegance with German charm, and it’s absolutely picturesque.  Yet, its most beautiful area, Petite France, has a bittersweet history.  Once home to a hospital district for soldiers, it’s now one of the city’s most romantic and photographed neighborhoods.

I climbed 350 steps to the top of the Strasbourg Cathedral (and conquered my fear of heights!) to take in a breathtaking view of the city.  We strolled through cobblestone streets, sampled chocolates, gingerbread, and cookies, and even took a ride on a carousel, my first ever! 🎠

🕍 Day 4: Mannheim & Rüdesheim, Germany
Our stop in Mannheim fell on a quiet Sunday when most shops were closed, so we visited the Holocaust Museum instead.  It was an emotional and humbling experience, one that reminded me why travel is about understanding, not just sightseeing.
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Later that day, we arrived in Rüdesheim, a lively town famous for its vineyards, narrow streets, and music boxes.  We raced to catch the last tram ride up the hill for panoramic views of the Rhine and the surrounding castles.  On our way back, we discovered a beautiful cuckoo clock tower that came to life with music as we walked by.  It was a little moment of joy we almost missed —one I’ll never forget.

🏰 Day 5: Koblenz and the Medieval Marksburg Castle
We reached Koblenz around noon, giving us time to sleep in before our excursion to Marksburg Castle — the only Rhine castle that survived World War II intact.  Touring its stone halls felt like stepping back in time.  Two caretakers still live there today, preserving its history for visitors.

​⛪️ Day 6: Cologne and the Brühl Palaces
​In Cologne, we joined a walking tour through the Old Town and visited the stunning Cologne Cathedral, famous for its stained-glass windows that miraculously survived the war.  Later, we toured the UNESCO-listed Brühl Palaces, where the artistry and craftsmanship left me speechless; a testament to human creativity and endurance.

🌅 Day 7: The Netherlands – Kinderdijk Windmills
Our final day brought us to the Kinderdijk Windmills in the Netherlands.  Even though I’d visited before, seeing these iconic windmills at sunset was pure magic.  I climbed inside one to explore its three floors and marveled at how these ingenious structures have stood the test of time.

❤️ Reflections from the Rhine
What made this cruise truly special wasn’t just the scenery; it was the people.  From first-time river cruisers in their 40s and 50s to a father-daughter duo traveling together, the atmosphere onboard was vibrant and full of laughter.

Our cruise director, James, kept everyone entertained with trivia nights, movies, and fun port talks.  Viking truly knows how to blend luxury, learning, and laughter into one incredible journey.

I left the Rhine feeling grateful, inspired, and eager to return, because with Viking, every voyage is more than a trip; it’s an experience.

🚢 Plan Your Rhine River Getaway
Ready to discover Europe’s most enchanting river route?
Let me help you plan your Viking Rhine Getaway — where every bend in the river reveals a new story, and every stop is filled with history, charm, and beauty.

📩 Contact me today at info@sheylaadventure.travel to start planning your Viking River Cruise!
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Don’t forget to subscribe to my newsletter for travel inspiration and updates on my next adventures.

The next morning, I woke up ready to celebrate another year of life, Italian style! 🇮🇹✨
We took a short train ride to Santa Margherita Ligure, a charming seaside town brimming with coastal beauty. After wandering through its colorful streets, we hopped on a 15-minute boat ride to Portofino, a place that truly feels like a dream.

We enjoyed delicious pesto pasta by the bay, visited the town’s cathedral, and admired the view as boats swayed gently in the harbor. My niece surprised me with a beautiful necklace and matching bracelet, such a sweet and meaningful gift. 💖 We toasted with a glass of Pinot Grigio, celebrating life, love, and adventure.

In the afternoon, we hiked up to the historic fortress, where the view of Portofino from above took our breath away. We made it back to catch the last ferry to Santa Margherita Ligure, where we ended the day with gelato and sunshine by the sea.

Back in Genoa that evening, we had dinner at a traditional local restaurant, the perfect ending to a perfect birthday.
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The next morning, before catching my train back to Milan, we visited the Christopher Columbus Museum, his birthplace, and where he grew up, a meaningful stop that connected me even deeper to Genoa’s rich history.

After a scenic three-hour train ride, I arrived in Milan and checked into the stunning NEMI Nest Hotel, a colorful and elegant five-star boutique property that truly impressed me. Their hospitality was unmatched, from a delicious Pesce al Sale lunch to a thoughtful breakfast box-to-go when I had to leave early for my train to Basel.
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Their rooms are spacious, beautifully designed, and offer the charm of a luxury stay at a four-star price point, a true hidden gem for travelers seeking comfort and authenticity in Milan.

Whether you dream of exploring Genoa’s coastal charm, wandering through Portofino’s pastel streets, or soaking up Milan’s cosmopolitan flair,  I can help you plan an unforgettable Italian escape tailored just for you.

📩 Contact me today to start planning your Italian Riviera getaway!
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And don’t forget to subscribe to my newsletter to be the first to read my next blog post, coming soon: “Sailing the Rhine River with Viking.” 🚢💙

1. Antarctica – The Last Frontier
Antarctica is the definition of extreme adventure. Cross the Drake Passage, walk along untouched glaciers, witness massive ice shelves, and watch penguin colonies thrive in their natural habitat. Expeditions often include kayaking among icebergs and polar plunges—experiences that transform the meaning of “once in a lifetime.”

2. Austria – A Winter Warrior’s Playground
With world-class alpine terrain, Austria is pure exhilaration for cold-weather adventurers. Imagine skiing in the Alps, snowshoeing across snowy valleys, or even climbing frozen waterfalls. For something different, try fat-biking or night tobogganing. Austria blends world-class winter sports with charming villages and soul-warming cuisine.

3. Belize – Where Jungle Meets Caribbean Blue
Belize offers thrilling adventures both underground and underwater. Dive or snorkel the Belize Barrier Reef, descend into sacred caves once used for Mayan ceremonies, or hike through jungles filled with exotic birds and howler monkeys. If you love water, culture, and wildlife, Belize is your playground.

4. Canada – Wild, Vast, and Untamed
​Here, nature is larger than life. Paddle through turquoise lakes in Banff, spot polar bears in Churchill, or trek through untouched national parks where grizzlies fish for salmon. Canada is one of the best destinations for travelers who want immersive wilderness, deep silence, and space to breathe.

5. Chile – Patagonia to the Atacama
Chile offers dramatic contrasts. Patagonia calls hikers with jagged granite peaks and glacial valleys, while the Atacama Desert dazzles with geysers, salt flats, lunar rock formations, and stargazing unlike anywhere on Earth. From rugged mountain trekking to desert exploration, Chile challenges every explorer to go further.

6. Costa Rica – The Pura Vida Adventure
Costa Rica blends adrenaline with eco-conscious travel. Zipline through rainforests, surf Pacific waves, soak in hot springs fed by volcanoes, or walk suspension bridges through lush canopies. With abundant wildlife and protected lands, adventure in Costa Rica comes with beauty and balance.

7. Galápagos Islands – Nature’s Living Classroom
The Galápagos is an adventure in evolution. Swim with sea lions, see giant tortoises face-to-face, snorkel among reef sharks, and observe creatures found nowhere else on Earth. This is a journey for those who crave closeness to wildlife in its purest form, untouched by modern life.

8. Greenland – Arctic Soul
​Remote, quiet, and powerful, Greenland offers adventure that resets your mind. Hike the Arctic Circle Trail, kayak beside glacial ice, or sail through fjords where floating icebergs glow blue in the sun. The Inuit culture adds depth and authenticity, making every experience deeply meaningful.

9. Guatemala – A Volcanic Kingdom
Guatemala rewards bold travelers. Trek active volcanoes like Pacaya, camp above the clouds on Acatenango, kayak across Lake Atitlán, or explore ancient Mayan cities such as Tikal. This destination is rugged, raw, and ideal for explorers who want a deeper cultural connection.

10. Iceland – Where Fire Meets Ice
Iceland’s landscapes feel cinematic. Dive between tectonic plates at Silfra, hike glaciers, explore lava fields, or chase the Northern Lights. Few places deliver such striking contrasts: volcanic heat, icy lagoons, roaring waterfalls, and black-sand beaches. Iceland invites every traveler to touch the edge of the Earth.

Ready for a Group Adventure in 2026?
Traveling in a curated group turns adventure into connection. You’ll explore confidently with expert guidance and a community of fellow travelers who share your excitement.


✨ 2026 Ireland Adventure Group
Walk ancient cliffside trails, discover pub culture and musical traditions, tour historic villages, and experience the emerald landscapes that have captured hearts for centuries.
Ireland is pure magic — timeless, soulful, and unforgettable.

✨ 2026 Italy Adventure Group
Tuscany’s rolling hills, ancient cities, coastal gems, and culinary masterpieces await.
Wine, food, history, and landscapes—Italy gives adventure travelers flavor and culture with every step.

✨ 2026 Colombia: Wonders of the Magdalena River
Journey through vibrant cities, lush ecosystems, and riverfront communities while discovering the rhythms of Colombian culture.

Experience the legendary Magdalena River as we sail in luxury and explore Colombia’s heart through its music, food, and people.

​Gift an Adventure That Lives Forever
Adventure is the most meaningful present you can give. Whether it’s a milestone celebration, a romantic getaway, or the trip you’ve always dreamed of, I will help you plan every step of the journey.

📩 Reach out today and let’s create a travel experience you’ll never forget.

Day 1 - Arrival & Local Immersion (San José)
I woke at 4:00 AM to catch flights from Nashville → Houston → San José (a little airport hustle in Houston, but both flights were smooth).  Customs was a breeze, and our guide and driver were waiting for the group.  After checking in (my room wasn’t ready yet), we started walking to a nearby food court — the rain stopped us from walking all the way there, so the driver came back to scoop us up and take the whole group to lunch.  I happily served as a translator at the local restaurant (I was the only Spanish speaker in the group) — it was so much fun hearing everyone try their Spanish!
Back at the hotel, I explored a nearby fresh market, walked around the hotel to see their amenities, and squeezed in a hot tub session (until lightning sent us inside).  Worked for a couple of hours and rested up for a big day of meetings the next morning.

Day 2 - Trade Show & Road to Monteverde (San José → Monteverde)
This was our first trade show day, from 8:30 AM to 1:00 PM, during which we held 33 meetings with Costa Rican tour operators, DMCs, hotels, and transportation partners.  These conversations were invaluable — technical logistics, new excursions, and ways to elevate guest experiences were all on the table.

After a hosted lunch at the DoubleTree by Hilton, we boarded a 4-hour bus to Monteverde along scenic highways and cloud-forest back roads.  Despite rain, the journey gave us a rainbow and a jaw-dropping sunset over the mountains — of course, we stopped to take photos.  That evening at El Establo Eco Lodge, a native guide and tourism-company owner welcomed us around a fire pit to share the area’s history and local perspective.  Dinner at Laggus Restaurant wrapped up the day.

Day 3 - Monteverde: Treetopia, Bridges & Brave Moments
We started with breakfast by a tranquil hotel pond, then headed to Treetopia Park. While some of the group did two hours of zip lining, I chose the aerial tram to capture the views and cheer everyone on. A steep one-mile trail led us to Hanging Bridge #5 — facing my fear of heights, I crossed it. I also tried the zipline bike after lunch (scarier than it looked) and gave tree climbing a go — the tree won that round. Highlights: hummingbird encounters, an onsite hotel inspection, and perfect weather that switched to rain only after we were safely back on the bus. We finished with a cozy site inspection of Fondavela Hotel and a traditional dinner.

Day 4 - White-Water Thrills & Hacienda Welcome (Tenorio → Hacienda Guachipelín)
An early breakfast and a 3-hour drive to Liberia set the tone for a full adrenaline day. At Tenorio Adventure we received a safety briefing and launched into a thrilling two-hour river rafting trip — rapids, rainforest, and non-stop laughs. After lunch we traveled to Hacienda Guachipelín, where the team greeted us with music, welcome cocktails, and keys already ready for rooms. Dinner that night was delicious — a perfect farm-to-table finish after a big adventure day.

Day 5 - Waterfalls, Hot Springs & Hacienda Site Inspections
This day mixed inspection with immersion. Morning site tours of Hacienda Guachipelín showed a wide range of accommodations: standard rooms, deluxe queens, a show-stopping suite (private jacuzzi, marble tub, outdoor patio), and even a glamping tent with its own jacuzzi. The property’s open-air yoga pavilion and a private event venue (capacity ~120) sit beautifully in the jungle with volcano views — I returned later to watch a stunning sunset from that spot.

We hiked to a mineral-rich waterfall (swinging bridges included!) — the water was freezing, but I jumped in and stayed about ten minutes. Then a restorative visit to the hot springs and a rejuvenating mud bath. The hacienda grows many of its own vegetables, which made dinner exceptionally fresh and delicious. (Rain moved in later and postponed horseback riding for some of us.)

Day 6 - Coffee Culture, Final Trade Show & Farewells (San José)
We departed early for Liberia, then boarded a small charter flight back to San José (our luggage rode back with our driver David, who drove four hours to reunite with us — gratitude!). After a delay at the airport, we visited the Britt Coffee Plantation for a fascinating tour and tasting — I left with locally roasted beans in my suitcase, of course.
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Back in the city we checked into Marriott Hacienda Belén then attended our second trade event at the Radisson San José, meeting 21 additional Costa Rican partners — hotels, tour operators, DMCs and transportation companies. These meetings are where deals and future collaborations begin, and I returned home with new contacts, product knowledge, and special offers to share with my clients. We closed the night with dinner, warm goodbyes, and heartfelt thanks to our guide Jesús and driver David for their incredible hospitality.

This trip = Education + Better Trips for YOU

This FAM trip was all about building relationships and knowledge so I can design confident, curated Costa Rica itineraries that deliver authentic experiences, reliable logistics, and insider access. Because I walked the trails, inspected rooms, tried the activities, met the guides, and sat with the people who make tourism happen here, I can recommend exactly the right properties and excursions for each traveler — from families to adventure seekers to luxury guests.

Ready to Experience Pura Vida?If Costa Rica is calling you, let’s plan a trip that matches your style — adventure, relaxation, culture, or a perfect mix of all three. I’ve seen the hotels, tried the activities, and met the partners who will make your trip seamless and unforgettable.

📩 Contact me today to start building your Costa Rica itinerary: reply to this post in a comment below, or email me at info@sheylaadventure.travel.
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Spaces fill quickly for high-season departures and curated departures — let’s make your Pura Vida happen.