From start to finish, our girls’ get-away vacation was perfect.  Drake Bay Costa Rica is truly paradise.  Honestly, I have never seen such a beautiful place – gorgeous beaches, tropical rainforest, abundant wildlife, warm ocean water, and breathtaking sunsets.  It’s impossible to do justice to the feeling of being there –  especially in the morning and evening when it’s the perfect temperature.  The warm breeze is fragranced by flowers, parrots fly overhead, geckos skittle along brightly coloured buildings, and the sound of the waves brings peace to your soul.  It’s a small village with friendly faces passing on motorcycles – everyone knows everyone, and the locals are fond of tourists.  Because it’s fairly remote, it is never overcrowded – yours will often be the only footprints in the sand.  Maria Sangria treated us to an unforgettable experience.  There was amazing adventure (hikes through the jungle, kyaking, snorkeling), culture (meeting residents,  eating traditional foods), relaxation (lounging in hammocks drinking fresh fruit cocktails), creativity (making windchimes from shells we found), and just plain fun.  Maria’s warmth, hospitality, fabulous planning, and great big smile made the trip so comfortable and carefree.  We were busy, but not too busy – plenty of time to enjoy girl talk with my old friend.  We swung in our hammocks (we each had one side by side outside our rooms), enjoyed refreshments (tequila and Costa Rican beer…lol), and tried to get photos of the hummingbirds drinking nectar from flowers only a few feet from our heads.  I could go on and on about the animals we spotted (wild dolphins, a tapir, toucans, monkeys,  kawatis, iguanas, a sea turtle, stunning fish) and all the other wonderous things in Drake Bay, but it would take all day!  Bottom line – I will cherish the memories of this trip forever.  Thank you Maria!