By Julie Fratarcangeli, Senior Travel Coordinator

As a travel coordinator with a passion for discovering new places and a deep-rooted love for my family, I’ve had the privilege of curating some incredible family adventures over the years. But I’ve never had the chance to build an international family reunion for my own family.

That changed earlier this year, when my dad said he wanted to take our family of four and my brother’s family of six on a trip. I was over the moon! These journeys aren’t just about seeing new sights; they’re about building connections, experiencing diverse cultures and strengthening the bonds that tie families together. 

I wanted to choose a destination that would push my brother’s family out of their comfort zone just enough – they have never traveled out of the country – all while making sure there were activities available for everyone from my 6-year-old nieces to my 75-year-old dad. 

Costa Rica was the natural choice. It’s a safe country that’s easily accessible. When you’re traveling with kids who have never sat through a long plane ride or waited in a customs line, this is the perfect segue into international travel.

As soon as we arrived, I knew I had made the right decision.

My brother and I watched our children’s eyes light up as they saw monkeys jumping from branch to branch and sloths napping in the trees. Palm trees and an endless blue ocean left my nieces and nephew at a loss for words.

The best part about Costa Rica is that there are so many opportunities to split up and explore different interests. We never argued about the plans for the day.

One afternoon my son, husband, brother and nephew went mountain biking while the rest of us stayed back and did a cooking class. Another day my dad took the youngest to the beach while the rest of us went white-water rafting–which was one of the highlights for the older kids. Watching the four of them work together to paddle down the river was both heartwarming and hilarious.

My daughter found a new love for surfing–it’s all she has talked about since we got home. We’ve already signed her up for surf camp next summer.

Our guides, driver and staff were outstanding: personable, friendly and always able to keep the kids smiling. Enjoying a cocktail while watching the kids play hide and seek with the guide was a moment of pure joy. Knowing that our itinerary was completely taken care of, and that the kids were having fun (and getting their energy out before bed), I could kick back, relax and enjoy our adventure.

My favorite memory of Costa Rica was ziplining with my family and my dad in Arenal. I’m so glad that my kids will always cherish the memory of their 75-year-old grandfather screaming, laughing and zipping through the trees.

Costa Rica brought us together in a way we’ve never connected before. Sharing laughs with the people I love was absolutely priceless. Everyone on the trip, no matter what age, had the time of their life and it’s something that we’ll talk about for years to come.

If you want to plan your multi-generational adventure, call me at 800-262-6255 and let’s chat!