Costa Rica Travel Agent Expert

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Mercedes King, Travel Agent in The Dalles, OR

Mercedes King

The Dalles, OR Travel Agent
Super Agent

Mercedes King

The Dalles, OR · 8 Years of Experience

Soul Atlas Travel, an independent agent with Travel Leaders Davis, CA
5.0
(34)
100% Recommended
I was visiting a friend in Washington and we made a day trip to Canada, Victoria. Took a ferry over and visited a few shops near... Read More >
About
Reviews
My Places

Areas of expertise

Destinations:

Costa Rica, Guanacaste, Puntarenas, San Jose, Manuel Antonio

Interests:

Adventure, Women's Travel, Canoeing & Rafting, Bird Watching, Hiking & Backpacking

About Me

Costa Rica adventure awaits.
Costa Rica adventure awaits.

Traveling to Costa Rica was an experience that stayed with me long after I returned home—a journey filled with luxury, adventure, nature, and the kind of soul-deep rejuvenation that only this remarkable country can offer. My first visit took me to the breathtaking region of Guanacaste, where I stayed at the five-star all-inclusive Dreams Resort, a property known for its lush surroundings, exceptional service, and effortless blend of relaxation and indulgence. From the moment I arrived, I felt wrapped in comfort. The warm breeze, the scent of tropical flowers, and the sound of the ocean created an atmosphere that invited me to slow down and savor every moment.

One of the highlights of my stay was a deeply soothing massage that melted away every trace of stress. The spa’s serene environment, paired with the skill of the therapists, left me feeling grounded and renewed. Even the dining experiences were unforgettable. The resort offered a variety of exquisite restaurants, each one showcasing flavors that celebrated Costa Rica’s culinary richness. I was especially captivated by the vibrant green and blue flaming shots that were set ablaze right before serving—an unexpected and dazzling performance that made each meal feel like a celebration. Every evening brought something new to enjoy, from fresh seafood to creative cocktails to warm, welcoming service.

To balance the luxury of the resort, I took a four-hour drive to a nearby local town, eager to experience the authentic rhythm of everyday life in Costa Rica. The journey itself was beautiful, winding through lush landscapes and small villages. Once we arrived, I was immersed in the lively bustle of markets, the chatter of locals, and the colorful energy that defines Costa Rican culture. It was a refreshing reminder that travel is not only about relaxation but also about connection—connection to people, to place, and to the stories that make each destination unique.

My second trip to Costa Rica took me in a completely different direction, both geographically and spiritually. This time, I ventured farther south for a yoga retreat deep in the jungle, a sanctuary designed for rest, reflection, and reconnection with nature. My cabin had no windows, only open air and screens, allowing the sounds of the jungle to flow in freely. Friendly bats hung outside the structure, and each morning I woke to the powerful calls of howler monkeys echoing through the trees. Instead of feeling startled, I felt alive—completely immersed in the wild beauty surrounding me.

The retreat offered daily yoga sessions that helped me unwind, stretch, and reconnect with my body. The combination of movement, fresh air, and the grounding presence of the jungle created a sense of peace I hadn’t realized I needed. One of the most unforgettable experiences was a horseback ride through the dense jungle, where we descended from a hilltop down to the shoreline. As we reached the beach, the scenery opened into a breathtaking panorama: roaring waves to our left, lush greenery to our right, and endless sky above us. Riding along the water felt like stepping into a dream, a moment suspended in time. After the ride, slipping into the ocean for a refreshing swim was the perfect way to cool down and savor the magic of the day.

Every part of this second journey reminded me of Costa Rica’s extraordinary ability to blend adventure with serenity. The country invites you to explore, to breathe deeply, and to embrace the natural world in a way that feels both grounding and transformative. I returned home feeling limber, renewed, and inspired—carrying with me the tranquility of the retreat, the thrill of the jungle, and the warmth of the people I met along the way.

Costa Rica is a destination that offers something for every traveler: luxury resorts, vibrant local culture, breathtaking beaches, lush rainforests, and wellness experiences that nourish the mind, body, and spirit. My time there reaffirmed why this country is such a beloved escape for travelers seeking both adventure and relaxation. It is a place where you can indulge, explore, unwind, and reconnect with yourself—all in one unforgettable journey.

Additional Languages
Spanish

REVIEWS

Rating: 5.0
34 reviews
100% Recommended
Your trust is our priority. Every review is submitted by verified travelers after they have booked and completed their trips. Learn more about our review guidelines.
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Showing 34 reviews

Day Trip a la Canada
Reviewed By Canada Lover - WA | Traveled to Victoria | British Columbia | Canada
I was visiting a friend in Washington and we made a day trip to Canada, Victoria. Took a ferry over and visited a few shops near the mall, it was an awesome day trip thanks to Mercedes's reccomendations!
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends.
1 of 1 people found this review helpful. Was this review helpful to you?YES|NO
Europe Trip
Reviewed By London Calling - CA | Traveled to United Kingdom | Europe
Mercedes was very helpful in giving me and my gf ideas of where to go when we planned for a short trip in the UK. Camden Market is a fun romp when you have a chance!
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends.
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A Trip To Canada
Reviewed By Marym&m - California | Traveled to Vancouver | British Columbia | Canada
I’ve never booked a trip outside of the country before and Mercedes was wonderful. She helped me with every detail and brought my awareness to “must knows” when traveling solo. I felt heard by Mercedes and I had an amazing trip.
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends.
1 of 1 people found this review helpful. Was this review helpful to you?YES|NO
London Calling
Reviewed By Liz30 - San Sebastián, Spain | Traveled to London | England | Europe
I needed to book a quick, last minute trip to London (visa reasons). Mercedes worked her magic on every last detail. In less than 1 hour, she had booked my airfare, a place to stay, and accommodated for the spare time I had while I was there to sight see. Incredible experience. I hands down recommend Mercedes.
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends.
1 of 1 people found this review helpful. Was this review helpful to you?YES|NO
Viva México!
Reviewed By JuliaT - Oregon | Traveled to Mexico | Mexico
I’ve been to Mexico a handful of times. Mercedes is my go to agent. She is knowledgeable and organized. Book her now!
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends.
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My Places

When it comes to travel planning, real-world experience makes a huge difference. Check out the map below to see all the places I have personally visited or booked for my clients. I know these destinations well and can give you reliable guidance.
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