Costa Rica Travel Agent Specialist

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Michelle Schaeffer, Travel Agent in Kansas City, MO

Michelle Schaeffer

Kansas City, MO Travel Agent
Super Agent

Michelle Schaeffer

Kansas City, MO · 25+ Years of Experience

Davisville Travel, an independent agent with Travel Leaders Davis, CA
5.0
(15)
100% Recommended
Michelle listened to my request for a very romantic getaway. From the oceanview suite at the Don CeSar to dinner reservations with ocean waves crashing and... Read More >
About
Reviews
My Places

Areas of expertise

Destinations:

Costa Rica, Fortuna, San Jose, Tamarindo Beach, Monteverde

Interests:

Animals & Wildlife, Bird Watching, Eco-Tourism, Family Vacations, Beach Vacations

About Me

Beautiful adventure waiting in Costa Rica
Beautiful adventure waiting in Costa Rica

Costa Rica is a breathtaking destination that offers everything from lush rainforests and volcanic landscapes to pristine beaches. Here is a guide to introduce you to the perfect "Pura Vida" adventure. That I can help you plan. 1. When to Visit: The Dry Season (December – April): This is the most popular time to visit, offering plenty of sunshine and dry conditions across most of the country.The Green Season (May – November): While there is more rain, the landscape is incredibly lush and vibrant. This is also a great time to find lower prices and fewer crowds. 2. Essential Destinations: Arenal and La Fortuna. Arenal Hanging Bridges: A must-do for wildlife spotting. Bring binoculars and wear sturdy shoes. La Fortuna Waterfall: Prepare for a steep hike down (and back up!), but the swim at the base is worth it. Hot Springs: After hiking, relax at Ecotermales Fortuna. Note: Reservations are required in advance.Manuel Antonio National Park: Home to incredible biodiversity. Remember to book your park entry tickets online ahead of time, as daily visitor numbers are capped. Playa Biesanz: A hidden gem perfect for a relaxing afternoon. Consider bringing a waterproof phone pouch if you plan on snorkeling.3. Transportation & Logistics Getting Around: You can choose between public buses, shared shuttles, or rental cars. If you are heading into remote areas, a 4WD vehicle is highly recommended. Currency: While many places take cards, keep some local colones on hand for street food and small "Sodas" (family-run restaurants). ATMs are widely available in major towns.4. Packing ChecklistClothing: Lightweight, breathable layers and a reliable rain jacket (even in the dry season).Footwear: Comfortable hiking boots for the jungle and sandals for the beach.Eco-Essentials: Reef-safe sunscreen and biodegradable insect repellent to help protect the local ecosystem. 5. Local Culture: The Pura Vida Lifestyle. You will hear the phrase "Pura Vida" everywhere—it’s a greeting, a goodbye, and a philosophy all in one. To truly experience the culture, visit a local "Soda" to try a Casado (a traditional plate with rice, beans, salad, and protein) or Gallo Pinto for breakfast. Costa Rica is a breathtaking destination that offers everything from lush rainforests and volcanic landscapes to pristine beaches. Here is a guide to help you plan your perfect "Pura Vida" adventure. 1. When to Visit. The Dry Season (December – April): This is the most popular time to visit, offering plenty of sunshine and dry conditions across most of the country.The Green Season (May – November): While there is more rain, the landscape is incredibly lush and vibrant. This is also a great time to find lower prices and fewer crowds. 2. Essential Destinations: Arenal and La Fortuna. Arenal Hanging Bridges: A must-do for wildlife spotting. Bring binoculars and wear sturdy shoes. La Fortuna Waterfall: Prepare for a steep hike down (and back up!), but the swim at the base is worth it. Hot Springs: After hiking, relax at Ecotermales Fortuna. Note: Reservations are required in advance.Manuel Antonio National Park: Home to incredible biodiversity. Remember to book your park entry tickets online ahead of time, as daily visitor numbers are capped. Playa Biesanz: A hidden gem perfect for a relaxing afternoon. Consider bringing a waterproof phone pouch if you plan on snorkeling.3. Transportation & Logistics Getting Around: You can choose between public buses, shared shuttles, or rental cars. If you are heading into remote areas, a 4WD vehicle is highly recommended. Currency: While many places take cards, keep some local colones on hand for street food and small "Sodas" (family-run restaurants). ATMs are widely available in major towns.4. Packing ChecklistClothing: Lightweight, breathable layers and a reliable rain jacket (even in the dry season).Footwear: Comfortable hiking boots for the jungle and sandals for the beach.Eco-Essentials: Reef-safe sunscreen and biodegradable insect repellent to help protect the local ecosystem. 5. Local Culture: The Pura Vida Lifestyle. You will hear the phrase "Pura Vida" everywhere—it’s a greeting, a goodbye, and a philosophy all in one. To truly experience the culture, visit a local "Soda" to try a Casado (a traditional plate with rice, beans, salad, and protein) or Gallo Pinto for breakfast.

REVIEWS

Rating: 5.0
15 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 15 reviews

Romance at the beach
Reviewed By Jordan P - Kansas City, MO | Traveled to St. Pete Beach | Florida | USA
Michelle listened to my request for a very romantic getaway. From the oceanview suite at the Don CeSar to dinner reservations with ocean waves crashing and candlelight! Everything was seamless. It truly exceeded my expectations — I’ll definitely book my next beach trip with you!
Michelle Schaeffer responded
"I am so happy for you and I look forward to speaking to you about your next trip."
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends.
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Family trip to Cancun
Reviewed By Amanda R - Independence, MO | Traveled to Cancun | Quintana Roo | Mexico
This trip was beyond anything I imagined. The resort Michelle picked for us was stunning, and the all-inclusive worked well for our family. The excursions recommended were perfect for us and were suitable for the oldest to the youngest. You made it so easy and worry-free. Thank you for taking the time to listen to what we needed in order for everyone to have fun.
Michelle Schaeffer responded
"I am happy everyone had a good time, I look forward to helping you with your next adventure. "
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends.
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Unforgettable road to Hana
Reviewed By Nicole D - Overland Park, KS | Traveled to Maui Island | Hawaii | USA
Michelle curated our trip to Maui. She insisted we take a day to drive the road to Hana. We read about it, but were not sure about driving it ourselves. Michelle found a "tour" just for us, so we could stop where we wanted. We enjoyed every waterfall and even took a picnic and ate by a waterfall. We stopped at the halfway point that Michelle suggested. It was the cutest little stand, and we indulged in the famous banana bread, which lived up to the hype. What a trip, thank you Michelle for helping plan for these amazing memories.
Michelle Schaeffer responded
"You are welcome. This was so much fun to plan and I am happy you had a trip full of memories."
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends.
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Romance in Puerto Vallarta
Reviewed By Taylor W - Mission, KS | Traveled to Puerto Vallarta | Jalisco | Mexico
We loved every minute! Thank you, Michelle, for finding such a beautiful resort with incredible views. The sunsets were spectacular. This trip was the best fit for our romantic getaway.
Michelle Schaeffer responded
"You are welcome. I am so happy your getaway was just what you needed. I look forward to assisting with your next trip."
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends.
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Barbados Dream
Reviewed By Jasmine T - Overland Park, KS | Traveled to Barbados | Caribbean
You planned the most beautifully relaxing getaway! The resort was gorgeous, and every recommendation was spot on. We can’t wait to book again. Thank you, Michelle, for listening to what we wanted and fulfilling those dreams.
Michelle Schaeffer responded
"It was my pleasure to plan this for you. I can't wait to assist you with your next tri\p."
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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