On Karen’s family trip to Costa Rica, the country became more than just a destination—it became a place of unforgettable adventures and deep connections. From her graduation trip in 1999 to returning decades later with her own children, Karen’s experience with Serendipity Adventures is a testament to the power of meaningful travel.
Watch the full interview or read it below.
We’d love for you to kick things off by introducing yourself and telling us where you are right now.
Sure! I’m Karen, and I’m currently in Allen, Texas. I’ve been married since 2002, and my husband and I have two daughters. One is a senior in high school—12th grade—and she just got accepted to her dream university this week!
Congratulations! That’s such exciting news. So, we’re chatting today because you’ve traveled with Serendipity Adventures more than once. Let’s go back to the beginning—how did you first hear about us?
Oh, wow, that was back in 1999. The internet wasn’t what it is now—nothing like it! I think I found Serendipity through some kind of online search, but I remember mailing off for a paper catalog.
I had just graduated college that year, and my parents asked me what I wanted as a graduation gift. I’m an only child, so it’s just the three of us, and I said, “I want to plan a family trip.” I’d always wanted to see a rainforest, so Costa Rica was my top choice.
When the catalog arrived, I remember circling all the activities I wanted to do—hot air ballooning, hiking, you name it. We worked back and forth with someone at Serendipity to customize the trip. Funny enough, when we went back to Costa Rica recently, my mom still had the original itinerary! She’s a keeper.
That’s such a great story. Do you remember much about that first trip?
Oh, absolutely—it’s so vivid. Because it was just the three of us, we had an extra spot in the car, so we ended up with two guides: Felipe and another guide whose name I’m blanking on. They made the trip so much fun. Can you imagine? Two guides and just three travelers!
The itinerary was amazing. We hiked, visited an active volcano, and had dinner at its base while watching the lava flow. We soaked in hot springs, went hot air ballooning, and even rappelled down a quarry. That last activity was the highlight of the trip—and honestly, of our most recent one too!
That trip was such a defining moment for me. I had just graduated and was stepping into adulthood. It felt like the start of something big, not just for me but also for eco-adventure tourism, which was just gaining popularity at the time.
It sounds like that first trip had a profound impact on you. Is that what inspired you to return with your kids?
Definitely. My husband and I always said we’d take the kids once they were old enough to appreciate and remember it. We’re not fancy people, but we’re intentional about spending money on travel because it changes you—it broadens your perspective and makes you a better person.
We even mapped out trips for our kids’ childhoods. We wrote down their ages, school schedules, and what grade they’d be in, then planned trips that aligned with what we wanted them to experience before leaving home. Costa Rica was always on that list.
That’s such a thoughtful approach! Did this recent family trip to Costa Rica meet your expectations?
Oh, it absolutely did. It’s hard to pick a single highlight because every moment felt special. For example, we hiked Cerro Chato in the rain and ate lunch huddled under a tarp. It doesn’t sound glamorous, but the laughter and camaraderie made it unforgettable.
For us, the people we meet on these trips are what make them so memorable. We spent hours in the car joking with our guide, Sergio, even coming up with silly inside jokes and stories. Those are the moments we still talk about as a family.
That connection with people is so special. What do you think sets Serendipity Adventures apart from other travel companies?
It’s the boutique feel. From the start, you’re treated as individuals, not just another booking. The team listens to who you are, what matters to you, and customizes the experience accordingly.
For example, we felt like Sergio was specifically chosen for our family trip to Costa Rica. His personality clicked with ours, and his humor amplified every experience. That matchmaking—pairing the right guide with the right family—is so important. A great guide weaves themselves into the fabric of your experience, creating memories that last a lifetime.
Another thing I love is the flexibility. If you’re driving and want to stop at a roadside stand or try something spontaneous, it’s not a problem. That kind of freedom makes the experience feel truly personalized.
That’s wonderful to hear. Speaking of guides, you mentioned earlier that Sergio felt like part of your family. Can you elaborate on that?
Absolutely. It’s the same feeling we had with Felipe back in 1999. Each trip is unique—a once-in-a-lifetime moment for our family. For the guides, it’s their job, but they make you feel like you’re the only family in the world.
Sergio became part of our family lore. We still talk about the jokes, the adventures, and even a creepy doll we nicknamed Annabelle! Those shared experiences bond you in a way that’s hard to put into words.
That’s so beautiful. Finally, what would you say to someone considering a family trip to Costa Rica?
Do it—and do it with Serendipity Adventures! If you want an immersive experience, this is the way to go. It’s not just about seeing the sights; it’s about connecting with the culture, the people, and the natural beauty.
Things won’t always go as planned, but those unexpected moments can become the most magical. And with a guide like Sergio, you can trust that everything will work out. You’ll be taken care of every step of the way, so all you have to do is enjoy the adventure.
