Customized Costa Rica Vacations, since 1999.

Melanie Marsell

Travel Consultant

I was born in Costa Rica to a Floridian dad and a Costa Rican mom. I have been travelling between the two places my entire life. After graduating from University of Florida, I made the move back to Costa Rica permanently. I worked as an event planner in Arenal for a few years before I made my way over to Costa Rican Vacations. I have lived in many places throughout the country, but I’ve recently made San Jose my home where I live with my two Dobermans, Lecter and Leia.

Notes on Costa Rica

Where to Get Married in Costa Rica

Thinking about taking the plunge in this Central American paradise? Here are the top ten places to get married in Costa Rica!

Read More

Let's get personal

Fun Fact about me:

I'm a big Packers fan! I enjoy off-roading, after all, the worst roads usually lead to the best things!

My Favorite Thing to do:

I love wildlife and nature! When I'm not out birding or SCUBA diving, you can find me at one of Costa Rica's amazing beaches, swimming at a waterfall, or sharing a beer with friends.

Top tip when traveling in Costa Rica:

The best part of Costa Rica is the people. It's a very safe country and I always encourage my clients to explore the local towns and try the restaurants, shop local, and talk to their drivers/guides to get to know more of what makes Costa Rican culture so special.

Recent Traveler Stories

I cannot put to words the wonderful vacation Melanie planned for us!!! We were treated like VIPs the entire time .. everyone in Costa Rica is so kind and helpful and the country is beautiful!!!Back to Melanie .. she planned a smooth trip with great guides and beautiful hotels and the people that shuttles us to our destinations were so kind .. our first pick up from the airport the guy bought us fruit (rambutan) and chips and each a coconut with a straw poked in the top. I wish Melanie planner other trips outside of Central America I would go to her without a doubt!! Thank you for giving our family the trip of a lifetime and memories we will cherish forever!! ❤️ these pics are just a small representation of our trip

Colleen Kelly DeShayes from New Jersey, NJ
Date of exterience: Aug, 2019

Melanie went "above and beyond" to arrange the perfect vacation itinerary for us. There were four of us traveling; two people who had never been to Costa Rica before and two people who were going for the third time. Melanie recommend places to stay and excursions that fit everyone's needs. She was a dream to work with! Responsive, personable and professional. Thanks for an unforgettable experience, Melanie! We will highly recommend your service to any of our family members and friends who plan to go to Costa Rica and we will also certainly go again in the future.

Joyce DiLorenzo from New Jersey, NJ
Date of exterience: Aug, 2019

Can’t say enough good things about Costa Rican Vacations and our travel specialist Melanie Marsell. Melanie was patient and professional and my numerous questions were all answered. She frequently emailed me with updates and gave us great suggestions for restaurants and excursions. She also got extra perks for my husband and I, for our 30th Anniversary. So appreciated!! A true custom vacation to exceptional properties and activities. Melanie also helped with a change of date which was necessary due to my husband’s work schedule. Thank you Melanie Marsell for providing us with a vacation paradise to Costa Rica!

Bonnie L from New Jersey, NJ
Date of exterience: Aug, 2019

Planning a Trip to Costa Rica? Let's Connect!

  • ■ ■ ■
    ■ ■ ■
    • + 0 - Adults
       
    • + 0 - Teens
      Ages 12 to 17
    • + 0 - Kids
      Under 12
    • Apply

I was born in Costa Rica to a Floridian dad and a Costa Rican mom. I have been travelling between the two places my entire life. After graduating from University of Florida, I made the move back to Costa Rica permanently. I have lived in many places throughout the country, but I've recently made San Jose my home where I live with my two Dobermans, Lecter and Leia.

Travel Consultant