65. Unlocking Paradise: How Points Made Costa Rica Affordable for a Family of Seven

In this episode,  we're taking you on a tropical adventure to Costa Rica, a destination that many dream about but assume is out of reach budget-wise (especially for a family vacation). But guess what? Our special guest, Rob Dulgarian, also known as “Travel Points Rob”, along with his family of seven, managed to explore the lush landscapes, vibrant culture, and breathtaking beaches of Costa Rica without the financial stress, all thanks to the magic of points and miles. Our journey today is a blueprint for making those seemingly impossible family vacations possible. From the moment we heard Rob’s story, we knew this episode was going to be a game-changer for families dreaming of exotic getaways but wary of the costs. Today, we dive deep into the nitty-gritty of planning, executing, and enjoying a family trip to Costa Rica on a budget that feels almost too good to be true. What makes Costa Rica an ideal destination for families, you ask? It's not just the postcard-perfect beaches or the endless opportunities for adventure in its national parks and rainforests. It's the possibility of experiencing all of this without the hefty price tag, thanks to strategic use of credit card points and miles. Rob shares firsthand experiences, from booking flights and accommodations to enjoying local attractions, all while keeping expenses to a minimum. We made sure to pack this conversation full with tips and tricks on how to leverage those points and miles for maximum benefit, making luxury accessible and travel dreams achievable. Whether you're a seasoned points collector or just starting out, there's something for everyone looking to stretch their travel budget further. So, are you ready to discover how you can give your family the gift of an unforgettable vacation without the financial strain? It's time to redefine what's possible with a little creativity and the right strategies. Grab your headphones or crank up the speaker, and let's dive into the lush world of Costa Rica on points and miles. Hit play to listen to the full episode and embark on this journey with us! Links For All Things Travel Mom Squad: stan.store/travelmomsquad   Links From This Episode: Tabacon Thermal Resort: https://www.tabacon.com/  Andaz Papagayo: https://www.hyatt.com/andaz/liraz-andaz-costa-rica-resort-at-peninsula-papagayo?src=corp_lclb_gmb_seo_liraz  Secrets Papagayo: https://www.hyattinclusivecollection.com/en/resorts-hotels/secrets/costa-rica/papagayo-costa-rica/  Maleku Tours: https://www.malekutours.com/  Activities: https://travelmomsquad.com/costa-rica-family-activities-to-consider/ Pam’s Past trip to Costa Rica: https://travelmomsquad.com/points-and-miles-to-costa-rica/   Episode Minute By Minute: 00:48 Introduction and Special Guest, “Travel Points Rob”  01:19 Traveling to Costa Rica on Points 03:15 Experiences with Southwest Airlines 04:47 Traveling to Costa Rica with Family 06:02 Traveling to Costa Rica as a Solo Traveler 07:11 Traveling within Costa Rica 12:03 Staying in Costa Rica: Accommodation Experiences 22:42 Activities and Experiences in Costa Rica 30:19 Planning Future Trips to Costa Rica 32:40 Conclusion and How You Can Get to Costa Rica!