Costa Rica Travel Expert

Hot Springs in Arenal

Welcome! My name is Ashley, and I’m a dedicated Costa Rica travel expert with over 8 years of experience crafting unforgettable travel experiences across this extraordinary Central American paradise. My passion for Costa Rica is more than professional—it's deeply personal. From its lush rainforests and vibrant wildlife to the warm, welcoming culture and pristine coastlines, Costa Rica has captured my heart in ways I never anticipated when I first arrived years ago.

Over the course of my career, I’ve worked with thousands of travelers—from solo adventurers and honeymooners to families and luxury seekers—helping them discover the Pura Vida lifestyle while experiencing the very best that Costa Rica has to offer. This bio is both a reflection of my journey and an invitation to trust a local-minded expert who knows Costa Rica not just as a destination, but as a way of life.

The Journey to Becoming a Costa Rica Travel Specialist

My path to becoming a Costa Rica travel expert wasn’t a straight line. Originally from the USA, I studied family science, and initially worked as a teacher. But in 2016, I took a life-changing trip to Costa Rica that redefined my career and personal mission.

It started with a one-week backpacking trip—learning about coffee and chocolate in Monteverde, hiking and volunteering in La Fortuna, and waking up to the calls of howler monkeys in Uvita. Every day in Costa Rica brought new wonder, and the warmth of the people made me feel at home. That trip turned into months, and eventually, ended up living there for 4 years.

Soon after my return to the USA, I began working for a travel agency, then transitioned into independent consulting, where I could blend my skills in itinerary planning, logistics, and client service with an insider’s knowledge of the country.  I’ve cultivated relationships with local guides giving me unique access to the heart of Costa Rican travel.

Every traveler is different, and that’s why I treat each itinerary as a creative, collaborative journey. I take time to understand my clients’ travel goals, preferences, activity levels, and budget before designing tailor-made experiences. 

Personalization at Its Core

My approach to travel planning is personal. I don’t offer cookie-cutter packages. Instead, I design each trip from scratch. Whether it’s arranging a surprise engagement picnic on a secluded beach or organizing a scientific field trip for students, no detail is too small or too ambitious.

Logistics You Can Trust

With boots-on-the-ground knowledge, I coordinate everything: private transfers, domestic flights, lodging, guides, excursions, restaurant reservations, and even local cell phone setup. I maintain a 24/7 support line during travel, ensuring peace of mind throughout the journey.

As a Costa Rica specialist, my expertise spans the entire country. Whether you’re dreaming of an adrenaline-filled zipline adventure, a birdwatching retreat in the cloud forest, or a secluded beach honeymoon, I offer destination-specific insights that elevate every itinerary.

Central Valley

The cultural and economic heart of the country, home to San José, Alajuela, Heredia, and Cartago. While many travelers bypass this area, I encourage visitors to spend at least a day exploring its historical richness and culinary offerings. I’ve personally curated city tours, coffee farm visits, and artisan workshops that showcase the real essence of urban Costa Rica.

Arenal and La Fortuna

The gateway to adventure. I’ve hiked Arenal Volcano countless times, explored the hanging bridges, and soaked in every hot spring from luxurious Tabacón to the local-favorite free springs by the river. This region is ideal for families and thrill-seekers alike.

Monteverde

Mystical, misty, and magical—Monteverde is my favorite place to slow down. I often design cloud forest retreats here, incorporating early-morning birdwatching with night walks and sustainable cheese-making tours. I work closely with guides who are descendants of the Quaker settlers and deeply respect the biodiversity of the region.

Guanacaste

This sun-kissed province offers the best of Costa Rica’s Pacific coast—Tamarindo, Playa Conchal, Nosara, and Papagayo. I specialize in pairing guests with boutique beach resorts, surf camps, and wellness retreats, with special knowledge of the dry tropical forest ecosystem.

Nicoya Peninsula

As one of the world’s five Blue Zones, Nicoya is a unique region where people live remarkably long, healthy lives. I coordinate holistic wellness trips that focus on organic food, yoga, and community immersion in places like Santa Teresa, Montezuma, and Punta Islita.

Whether it’s your first visit or your tenth, Costa Rica always has something new to discover. When you work with me, you get more than a travel planner—you gain a knowledgeable, passionate partner who genuinely loves sharing the wonders of this incredible country.Let’s work together to design a trip that’s immersive, ethical, relaxing, and unforgettable.