Costa Rica is a biodiverse country with 12 life zones that provide refuge for over 10,000 plant and 850 bird species. It offers activities like rafting, scuba diving, and hiking alongside friendly locals. The document provides details on eco-nature areas in Costa Rica like Manuel Antonio National Park and Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve that are home to diverse wildlife. Beach areas along Costa Rica's Pacific and Caribbean coasts are also described, offering surfing and swimming. Two luxury hotel options, Hotel Punta Islita and the newly opened El Mangroove resort, are presented as potential places to stay in Costa Rica for a honeymoon.

1. HONEYMOON

2. COSTA RICA
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Though gaining in popularity, Costa Rica remains one of the "best kept
secrets" of vacation destinations. Though it's only as big as West
Virginia, there are few places in the world that compare for the sheer
magnitude of its bio-diversity. Twelve major life zones provide refuge for
over 10,000 kinds of flowering plants, 850 bird species, 3,000 butterfly
species, and 209 mammal species! Active volcanoes, rainforests, cloud
forests, lowland jungles, the dramatic Pacific coastline, and tranquil
Caribbean beaches ramble across seven provinces. Thirty percent of
the land is protected by national and private reserves, which harbor
more than five percent of the world's plant and animal species.
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Equally fantastic are the activities - rafting, scuba diving, jungle hiking,
bird watching, horseback riding, mountain biking, and more. As the
perfect complement to this vacation Eden, Costa Ricans (Ticos, as they
call themselves) are friendly, peaceful people who welcome you to their
country like a long-lost relative. Simultaneously, Costa Rica is known for
the multi-ethnic pleasures of its capital, San José, and as a producer of
some of the world's best coffee. Most Costa Rican vacations begin and
end in the exciting capital, but it's what lies beyond that takes your
breath away!

3. COSTA RICA
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EC0-NATURE AREAS
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Manuel Antonio: This is a small town with exquisite scenery and astounding ecological treasures. There are
panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean, evergreen vegetation, an exciting mix of comfort and adventure, and
popular beaches in Costa Rica. Manuel Antonio was designated as a National Park in 1972, forever
preserving its 1,700 acres of land, 136,000 acres of ocean, and the 109 mammal and 187 bird species that
inhabit its coasts and forests. This privileged place of virgin forests, lagoons, mangroves, beaches, and 12
small islands is also crucial as a nesting and feeding ground for many sea birds. Venture along the jungle
trails and come face to face with toucans, white-faced monkeys, red squirrels, three-toed sloths, and many
more!
Monteverde: This Cloud Forest Reserve is a village as well as a biological reserve. The Dry Season is the
best time for bird-watching and any time of year visitors can enjoy art and butterfly galleries, orchid gardens,
a serpentarium, horseback riding, family restaurants, pubs, craft shops, and more. The Reserve sits on the
Continental Divide in the Tilarán Mountain Range and contains 8 life zones that shelter many rare species
such as the brilliantly-plumed quetzal birds and the endangered gentle tapir, a relative of the horse. Nature
trails let you journey safely and easily through this priceless ecosystem.
Arenal Region: Facing one of the most active volcanoes of Costa Rica, this is a favorite destination for
locals and tourists. Lake Arenal provides safe viewpoints of the volcanic fireworks, and the Arenal Reservoir
is rich in aquatic resources and wildlife. Hiking and horseback riding are also popular. Take a self-guided tour
through the botanical gardens, handicraft markets, greenhouses, rainforest nature trails, river, waterfalls,
keep your eyes open for the more than 225 species of birds that populate the region, and don't forget a
rejuvenating soak in the Tabacon Hot Springs.
Osa Peninsula:At the top of the Osa Peninsula, Corcovado National Park offers an extraordinary chance to
get close the diversity of nature. Beside the lush flora of this rain forest reserve, there are 624 species of
mammals birds, reptiles, and amphibians to meet here.
Tortuguero: Great adventures await in the tropical rain forest of Tortuguero National Park. Your boat guide
will lead you among a network of canals teeming with life, from howler monkeys to herons and more.

4. COSTA RICA
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BEACH AREAS
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Guanacaste: The largest province in Costa Rica, Guanacaste offers miles of
untouched beaches on the Pacific, and is home to the relaxed beach towns of
Flamingo and Tamarindo. You'll also find some of the country's finest resort
hotels and best nature parks.
Puntarenas: The closest beach resort to San Jose, Puntarenas features striking
and unusual volcanic black sand beaches. A great starting point for day trips to
the Monteverde Cloud Forest or the Gulf of Nicoya.
Jaco Beach: Excellent surfing, small native style hotels, restaurants with local
flair and low key entertainment are all part of the Jaco Beach experience. The
area is an ideal base for exploring the Carara Biological Reserve.
Tambor: You can play all day in the warm Pacific water of Tambor, set on the
Southern end of the Nicoya peninsula. In fact, it's a perfect place to get off the
beaten path and onto the beach!
Caribbean Coast/Limon: Experience the Caribbean as it was, and as it should
be...pristine beaches, waving palm trees and small quaint hotels. Don't miss the
opportunity to explore at the underwater park in Cahuita.

5. COSTA RICA
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The tropical weather in San José is usually temperate,
with temperatures generally ranging between 70°-85°
in the lowlands and 58°-76° in the elevated Central
Valley, and San José, Monteverde, and Arenal. The
Pacific coast is more arid and is the hottest region,
with dry season temperature up in the 90s. Summer is
the dry season, running from December to April and
winter is the rainy season, running from May to
November, though rain tends to fall only in the late
afternoon or evening.
Average high temperature in March is 87° F, the
average low is 67° F.
Spanish is the official language, but English is widely
spoken in the tourist centers.

7. COSTA RICA OPTION ONE

8. HOTEL PUNTA ISLITA
5 star boutique hotel
 Hotel Punta Islita is located along the sunny
Nicoya Peninsula in Costa Rica’s Guanacaste
Province.
 Approximately 2 hour drive from Liberia airport
 Hotel Punta Islita bears the engaging design of
Ronald Zurcher, a prominent Costa Rican
architect. The tiered layout capitalizes on the
property’s hilltop setting, gazing upon Islita Beach
and the namesake islet that separates from the
mainland during high tide. The décor is a blend of
Costa Rica’s aesthetic traditions with a splash of
whimsical, emphasizing local art.
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10. HOTEL PUNTA ISLITA
Features an ocean-view infinity pool set on
the hillside and an additional pool with a
swim-up bar located at ocean level.
 Set in a tropical garden, the on-site spa offers
relaxing treatments that incorporate natural
Costa Rican ingredients and ancient healing
rituals
 Tennis courts and 9-hole golf course
 On-site hiking, bird watching, howler monkey
quests, cooking classes
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13. HOTEL PUNTA ISLITA
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The stylish 1492 Restaurant showcases the rich
textures, vibrant colors, and intense flavors of Costa
Rica's culinary traditions. Fresh local and regional
ingredients are playfully combined with the flair and
zest that reflects Costa Rica's ethnic diversity and
Guanacaste's natural exuberance. 1492 Restaurant's
fifty-foot thatched palm ceiling and open layout are
inspired by the architectural style of ancient native
cultures for a memorable dining experience.
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Borrancho Restaurant- casual beachfront restaurant
serving salads, ceviche, sandwiches, pizza and fresh
seafood dishes.

18. HOTEL PUNTA ISLITA
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Casita Room
Punta Islita’s Casitas capture the charm of
a tropical beach cottage. They feature a
spacious lounging area, a petite garden, a
private terrace, and a refreshing plunge pool. All
are outfitted with a king-sized canopy bed.
 Air-conditioner and ceiling fan
 Local art
 Complimentary wifi
6 Nights $5,242
 Hotel

21. COSTA RICA OPTION TWO

22. EL MANGROOVE
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5 star boutique hotel
Opening February 2014-No pictures available at this time
Where man and mangrove meet with groovy inspiration, El
Mangroove brings a new stature of "hot and hip" to Guanacaste.
Located in Bahia Papagayo, at only 20 minutes from touch down to
sand, it's the closest resort to any international airport in Costa
Rica. Spanning for 18 acres and embracing 150 meters of beach
front it's also ideally located at only 15 minutes from the artsy and
bustling town of El Coco. 85 -chic suites are nestled amongst
mangrove and beach front forest. A hotel surrounding a concept
of barefoot luxury, it's straight up laid-back and down-right cool!
Perfect mixes of wood and water alongside contemporary linear
architecture, natural furnishings and subtle splashes of color make
it evident that true indulgence is actually found in simplicity. This
property is not only naturally inspiring but wholesomely fresh and
sexy. Whether you are looking for paddle-boarding escapades or
cross fit jungle training or perhaps a re- energizing kick start, in our
wellness center we can accommodate it all.

25. EL MANGROOVE
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130 foot pool with private cabanas
Located on beach
Fitness center
Outdoor yoga deck
Full service spa
Complimentary kayaks
Entertainment and poolside DJ
El Mangroove is just minutes away from some of the best sports fishing,
diving, surfing, and boating destinations in Costa Rica. Active volcanoes
such as Rincón de la Vieja, Miravalles, Tenorio, and Arenal are accessible
within a one-hour drive. The highest density of protected land in the
country is located in Guanacaste, ranging from national parks to natural
reserves that are world famous for their biodiversity and amazing scenery.
The area offers a wide range of activities such as canopy tours, river
rafting, canoeing and tubing, hiking, bird watching, horseback riding,
cultural activities, and more. Guests also have exclusive access to an
Arnold Palmer-designed golf course just 15 minutes from El Coco.

27. EL MANGROOVE
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Featuring farm-to-table and ocean-to-table cuisine, the
restaurants and bars at El Mangroove offer a range of
ambiances and flavors to entice all palates.
Core Restaurant: Serves three meals daily and is located
off the hotel lobby.
Central Bar: Located within the primary restaurant, the
bar area is the place to wind down the day.
Beach Shack: This oceanfront beach restaurant is
surrounded by sand and teak deck, making it a perfect
setting for laid-back dining.
Oasis: The main pool area—the largest in Guanacaste—
is surrounded by coveted cabanas and private catering.
Picnic menus and to-go meal boxes are also available.
24-hour room service

29. EL MANGROOVE
Junior Suite Superior, Room with king size bed
and sofa bed, 2 plasma TVs 42" MIDI
Technology, 2 phones, one for video calling and
other wireless, wireless connection, air
conditioning and fan, Alarm clock, Docking
station for iPad/iPhone, valet service kit, hair
dryer, walking closet, mirror, safety box, mini
bar, outdoor terrace, hammock, living room
area.
 6 Nights $5,265
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31. COSTA RICA OPTION THREE

32. CALA LUNA BOUTIQUE HOTEL
5 Star Hotel
 Located on Costa Rica’s northern Pacific Coast,
it is one of the countries most sought after
destinations. Its main attractions include vast
sandy beaches, top surf breaks, stunning
sunsets, a lively town with restaurants and
shops and of course many natural wonders and
eco tours nearby. Tamarindo Costa Rica has
many amenities including world class
restaurants, supermarkets, banks, shops, post
office, pharmacies, internet cafés, and even a
private clinic, all within walking distance of each
other.
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33. CALA LUNA BOUTIQUE HOTEL
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Surrounded by tropical lush gardens, take pleasure in Costa Rica’s 365
day a year warm weather lounging in one of its idyllic cabanas or sun
beds. Take a plunge in the temperate water perfect for cooling that sun
kissed glow. Pool service available from La Caletta Lounge where you
can enjoy everything from gourmet snacks to pool –side cocktails.
A short 2 minute stroll across a jungle path you come across Langosta
Beach where the soft white sand dips gently into warm Pacific waters
surrounded by volcanic rocks. This semi private beach has is sprinkled
with multicolored shells and one of the most ideal points to enjoy Costa
Rica’s spectacular sunsets, visible year round where even the local
wildlife pause to watch the golden sun sink into the rippling sea. A 10
minute walk brings you to Tamarindo beach where the shore comes to
life in this bustling surf town.
Outdoor yoga platform
Spa
Surf school

36. CALA LUNA BOUTIQUE HOTEL
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Cala Moresca Restaurant
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A culinary experience featuring local and organic ingredients, Costa
Rican flavors and international flare.
Cala Moresca restaurant features refined gourmet fusion in a romantic
atmosphere of elegance with personalized service. We constantly
strive to use locally and organically grown products, hardly use any
processed ingredients and only serve fresh fish from artisan fishing.
Cala Moresca is the first restaurant in Tamarindo and in Costa Rica to
offer an exclusive sustainable, organic and biodynamic wine list.
Harmonize your dining experience by being responsible with our
environment and savoring our local produce.
La Caletta Lounge
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Celebrating the sophisticated & eclectic nature of Costa Rica and laid
back local vibe, La Caletta Lounge serves up dishes and drinks with a
focus on organic fusion in a comfortable sociable setting. At La Caletta
Lounge we call our dishes Muses, like in the Greek Mythology, Muses
are considered energy centers which express ―life energy" or Prahna
and take care of transformation and healing.

38. CALA LUNA BOUTIQUE HOTEL
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Deluxe Room
Oversized 600 sq. ft. and walls of pale blue and
green natural tones this guestroom has stone
flooring, seating, and vibrant artwork to adorn its
walls under high wood beamed ceilings. Features a
King bed or 2 double beds dressed in high thread
count sheets. With an exceptional bathroom as the
focal point, a spa inspired large deep soak tub and
overhead shower beckons. Patio has outdoor teak
table and chairs, overlooks gardens, and soaks in
sounds of birds or waves in the distance.
 6 Nights $3565
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40. COSTA RICA OPTION FOUR

41. ANDAZ PAPAGAYO, A HYATT HOTEL
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5 Star small hotel
Opening in December
153 thoughtfully appointed guest rooms & suites with balconies
Nestled in a location that is second to none, where the Gulf of
Papagayo meets the sapphire blue waters of Culebra Bay, Andaz
Peninsula Papagayo will arrive to personify Costa Rica’s ―Pura
Vida‖ (pure life) expression, an extension of the native spirit of the
country. The design concept of Andaz Peninsula Papagayo by
Costa Rican architect Ronald Zurcher translates the healthy and
poetic integration of men and nature, with rooms that make you
feel you belong to this breathtaking setting and buildings created
to the images of creatures of the jungle - a perfect statement for
the acclaimed Andaz personality and style.

43. ANDAZ PAPAGAYO
Two gold sand beaches, one activity beach
and one quiet relaxation beach
 Two pools, one family pool and one adult
only pool
 Spa and fitness center
 Local art exhibits and workshops
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45. ANDAZ PAPAGAYO
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The unique gastronomic experience of the
Andaz Peninsula Papagayo
features three themed restaurants. Each one
tells a story about our culture, gatherings
around a tree as the indigenous used to do,
or the enhancement of the fisherman culture
in the area. Totally open kitchens allow a
distinctive interaction with chefs, making
guests feel like if they were visiting family or
the home of a friend.

47. ANDAZ PAPAGAYO
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Andaz King Room
Modern design blends with touches of character
such as woven textiles, solid woods and carved
artifacts to highlight the Costa Rican aesthetic in this
52-sqm guestroom, featuring one king bed and
spacious balcony that grants partial bay and tropical
forest views. The bathroom's walk-in rain shower
opens onto the balcony, and deluxe amenities
include complimentary non-alcoholic minibar and
wireless Internet access.
 6 Nights $5,159
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49. COSTA RICA OPTION FIVE

50. FOUR SEASONS RESORT COSTA RICA
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5 Star Resort
World renown Four Seasons service
145 rooms
Set at the tip of Peninsula Papagayo and spilling down a
coastal hillside to an isthmus of golden sand, Four
Seasons creates an ambiance of simple luxury in this
pristine natural setting. The 145 spacious guestrooms are
imaginatively crafted with indigenous woods and stone
finishes, seamlessly blending indoor comfort with an
outdoor verandah to soak up the mesmer- izing views. It
also features a state-of-the-art fitness center, three pools
surrounded by lush landscaping, four Har-Tru clay tennis
courts, and an Arnold Palmer signature golf course
boasting sweeping views of the Pacific on 14 of its 18
holes. Also with views of the ocean, the spa provides an
oasis of tranquility and a world of peaceful balance.

52. FOUR SEASONS RESORT COSTA RICA
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Tico Pool
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Blanca Pool
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Ticos, the 1,000-square-metre (10,765-square-foot) freshwater main pool, is
joined on either side by two smaller pools, with a nearby whirlpool grotto.
Guests can enjoy an aquatic workout or relax in a comfortable chaise
longue, as Four Seasons attendants bring cocktails and complimentary fruit,
water and other treats.
The lively Blanca pool overlooks Playa Blanca (the activities beach).
Surrounding the pool are 70 lounge chairs, with a table and umbrella for
every two chairs.
Attendants assign chairs on a daily first-come, first-served basis. Pool
attendants offer food and beverage service, and complimentary sunblock
and aloe vera gel are available, in addition to water scented with tropical
fruit.
Quiet Pool
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The adult-only quiet pool is steps from Playa Virador (the quiet beach), and
boasts 40 lounge chairs, with a table and umbrella for every two chairs.

55. FOUR SEASONS RESORT COSTA RICA
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Playa Prieta
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Playa Blanca
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Nestled along the palm-fringed sands of Peninsula Papagayo's Playa Prieta
– just seven minutes from Four Seasons – lies the Prieta Beach Club & Spa.
Open to residence guests, this casual 3,530-square-metre (38,000-squarefoot) oasis is situated in a naturally sheltered cove. Facilities include a lap
pool, a beachfront bar, a sports bar and a restaurant, as well as a spa and
fitness centre. Water activities include snorkelling and surfing. Transportation
from the Resort is complimentary.
On the south side, Playa Blanca faces Bahia de Culebra, where the waves
are slightly rougher and the atmosphere is busier. The water sports pavilion
can supply equipment and instruction for an enticing array of activities – from
snorkelling and sea kayaking to sailing and sailboarding
Playa Virador
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On the north side of the peninsula, Playa Virador faces the Pacific Ocean,
yet remains calm with gentle waves. This quiet beach is interspersed with
only a few chaises longues to offer a sense of solitude and seclusion

57. FOUR SEASONS RESORT COSTA RICA
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Beach football, soccer and volleyball
Sailing with Hobie Cats and windsurfing
Cooking classes
Salsa lessons for beginners
Scuba diving for beginners
Chocolate making class
Hiking
Golf and tennis clinics
Fitness center
Spa
Volunteer opportunities

60. FOUR SEASONS RESORT COSTA RICA
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Congo's Bar & Grill
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Di Mare
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Just a 10-minute shuttle from the Resort’s lobby, Caracol is the perfect spot for dinner. Guests
can relax on the terrace and take in Caracol’s wonderful ocean views or watch the evening
stars – or they can enjoy cocktails in the friendly atmosphere inside the restaurant. Caracol is
also available for private events, and during high season, lunch is also offered.
Papagayo
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Stylish and exotic, this dinner-only restaurant presents Italian fare and seafood specialties.
From its ocean-view vantage point, the restaurant offers seating indoors and on the fully
screened outdoor terrace.
Di Mare also features a luxuriously appointed private dining room with seating for up to 30, as
well as a behind the scenes Chef's Table experience for two or four guests. Guests
participating in the Chef's Table taste amazing off-the-menu items and assist our chefs in the
kitchen in preparing various elements of the meal.
Caracol
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Al fresco on a terrace overlooking the pools and beach, this delightfully casual pool bar and
grill offers local and American fare in Costa Rica. Congo's Bar & Grill is open daily for lunch,
and serves dinner on select evenings.
In a vast space open to poolside greenery, this casual, all-day restaurant serves continental
cuisine and local specialties, beginning with an impressive breakfast buffet. Guests may enjoy
breakfast, lunch or dinner either indoors or on the adjoining patio. Open-air seating overlooks
the daytime activity taking place around the Resort's pools.
CR Burger Shack
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CR Burger Shack is the perfect casual lunch for guests before or after golf, tennis or the Trail
of Giants experience. Located next to the golf clubhouse and tennis courts, CR Burger Shack
is a fun and delightful Costa Rican take on the classic American burger shack that allows
guests to dine casually outdoors or take their meal to go.

62. FOUR SEASONS RESORT COSTA RICA
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Terraza Room
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the sounds of exotic wildlife and the natural
beauty of this paradise soothe you in rooms that
seamlessly blend indoor comfort with an outdoor
terrace overlooking the tropical forest. Native
tropical landscape and dry forest. One full
marble bathroom. 1st floor. 56 m2 (603 square
feet).
 5 Nights $5,621

64. CHANGE YOUR LATITUDE TRAVEL
ERIN PETERS
ERIN@CHANGEYOURLATITUDETRAVEL.COM