Have you wondered what a typical day is like on an Adventures by Disney vacation? With guided family trips around the world, no day is really “typical.” Yet, fantastic itineraries, luxurious accommodations, marvelous Adventure Guides, and camaraderie with fellow guests are present throughout each Adventures by Disney vacation. My family recently traveled to Costa Rica with Adventures by Disney. The first day of our trip was a great example of an unforgettable ABD day.

Pura Vida! Launching Our Day in Costa Rica

One of the first things we learned in Costa Rica is the expression, “Pura Vida.” Pura Vida is used both as a greeting and a way of saying that “Life is good.” It is the way Costa Ricans express that they appreciate what they have. Our first full day with Adventures by Disney was a fantastic introduction to the concept of Pura Vida. We began with a sumptuous breakfast at the beautiful Costa Rica Marriott San Jose on a patio with gorgeous views.

Costa Rica Marriott

Meeting Our Adventure Guides and our Group

We had met our Adventure Guides, Mike and Jenny, the previous day. One of the many things that makes an Adventures by Disney vacation so special are the two Adventure Guides who lead each trip. Mike is an experienced Adventure Guide who has led countless adventures around the world with Adventures by Disney. His sense of humor and laid back style made us feel welcome while we also knew he was attending to every detail. Jenny is a native of Costa Rica whose warm smile and in-depth knowledge of the wildlife, history and people of Costa Rica connected us to her and her beautiful country.

After breakfast, the families then gathered in a private room to meet for the first time! Before our first Adventures by Disney vacation, I admit to a bit of worry about group travel. After our first ABD in Central Europe, my fears were quickly cast aside. Families who choose Adventures by Disney have something in common at the start: a desire for a high quality, low stress family vacation. As we were introduced to the families on this trip, we learned who were Adventure Insiders (traveled on one or more previous ABD) as well as what each family was looking forward to the most. My 13-year-old son correctly shared that the Shelton family was looking forward to the food!

The Start of Our Adventure

We then took a comfortable charter bus for a short ride to the airport! While we waited to board our private planes that would take us into the rainforest, our Adventure Guide Mike got the kids playing. Before we knew it, kids of all ages were mixing, laughing and chatting.

Making new friends at the start of our Adventures by Disney vacation

Our group then boarded two small planes for a short flight into the lush Tortuguero National Park. We were excited for to explore the rainforest and stay at a lodge accessible only by boat.

Our overnight bags were delivered directly to our rooms.  The rest of our luggage was waiting for us at our next destination. This is one example of logistical planning made simple thanks to Adventures by Disney. Although both of our Adventure Guides were quite knowledgable, our group met additional local expert guides who immersed us in the beautiful wildlife along our private river tour.

Photo by Karen Shelton

In the afternoon, we relaxed and swam in the pool at Laguna Lodge. We also took an optional trip to the local village with our Adventure Guides.

Pool at Laguna Lodge

The First of Many Evenings to Remember

We began our Adventures by Disney Welcome Dinner with refreshing coconut drinks. We enjoyed a delicious buffet dinner with a wide selection of local favorites. Local musicians entertained us. As the evening continued, a party broke out with musical chairs (not just for kids!), conga line, and dancing. We celebrated anniversaries and birthdays of fellow guests who had already begun to feel like friends.

To me, this is the true magic of an Adventures by Disney vacation. Immersing ourselves in a new culture, making new friends, and creating unforgettable memories. Pura Vida.