Welcome to Rancho Armadillo :: Playas del Coco, Costa Rica

We were featured in the July/August 2007 issue of Brides Magazine as one of the top destinations for honeymoons in Costa Rica

"Low key couples who want a more authentic atmosphere choose centrally located Rancho Armadillo, a Spanish-style estate, where the owner welcomes guests like family by dictating down to the mile marker directions to secret waterfalls, Places like this remind you that, despite the buzz, Costa Rica will never be a high-rise mecca~.You can still find a hammock where the only sound will be a breeze rustling the trees. And if you listen closely, a howler monkey's screech."
Lexi Dwyer- Brides Magazine

"This place is an entrancing hotel~ the view from the common areas is the best in town"
Lonely Planet

"Easily the most unique property in the Coco area, this is a true respite from daily life~it's the best of both worlds – tranquility and ease of access."
The Bradt Travel Guide

Stands out as a comfortable luxury hotel in the foot hills above the beach~view incredible sunsets or star gaze at night~ the gardens are manicured
Hunter Travel Guide

"For peaceful exclusivity, I recommend Rancho Armadillo~This home away from home is a beautiful Spanish-colonial-style hacienda~spacious bungalows~with magnificent hardwood furniture~rainforest showers~voluminous bathrooms are adorned with exquisite tile work and stained glass~The honeymoon suite is huge"
Moon Handbooks

All of the testimonials below were unsolicited from former guests and now new friends and are displayed here to give prospective new guests honest opinions of what they can expect from us here at The Rancho Armadillo Estate. We have included the email addresses; Please feel free to contact any of them.

Dear Rick, Arrived home safe and sound. Barely made our connections in Dallas, but our luggage didn ' t. I wasn ' t worried about the clothes just my bags of Costa Rican Coffee! Got to have my priorities correct..Luggage has now safely arrived !I want to thank you for a wonderful stay. Although I know that you do the same for every guest, you made us feel like it was just for us. Your recommendations truly made the trip special and enjoyable. Thanks for all the “ extras ” ! Best wishes and take care.
Sincerely, Christine, Bill, George and Janet

Hola Rick, I woke up to snow and cold wind this morning and in one swipe of the snow scraper, all remaining vacation mentality was gone. This year however, I think was the best trip yet. As always, your food and company was much enjoyed and is now sorely missed. My favorite day was finding the beach at Lola's followed closely by losing to Meghan in scrabble but beating you. I'm going to continue to hone my spelling skills this year in anticipation of a re-match. Keep and eye out for a new trip advisor review. Till next year, xoxox Courtney Jane

Just a note to thank you for everything(especially the birds), (oh yeh, and the fabulous breakfasts),(oh, did I mention the wonderful tours and guides?).Well, I guess I'll just say thanks for everything.and keep doing what you're doing! love, deb

Thanks Rick, that card was awesome. We really enjoyed ourselves and both Thank you very much for a wonderful time. We of course made it home without any problems. It was a great vacation that we will never forget. Thanks again for everything.
Dina & Edna

Rick - Thanks a lot for your hospitality. You really made our vacation in Costa Rica. I won't forget your beautiful estate, the amazing tarantulas, spiders and the bright stars. Oh and, the taste of that seabass you cooked for us. It hurts to be back to our corporate life in the US. I hope to be back some day but at the very least I'll make sure to let my friends now about Rancho Armadillo. Take care! Pura Vida! Rusen & Pablo

Hi Rick! I just wanted to thank you for your hospitality while my dad and I were visiting your place. I enjoyed looking at the stars at night, tarantula fishing, and even getting my ass kicked in Scrabble while drinking delicious margaritas. haha It was a treat to wake up to such a great breakfast every morning as well. I already miss it! I look forward to visiting again sometime! -Krystle Bednark

Hi Rick, Just wanted to send a quick note to say thank you again, we had a great time staying there and visiting your adopted country. We're all settled back in here wishing we were back there. Haley is enjoying the stages of a sunburn and picking the dead skin out of her bed and keeping me posted on how my back is healing. She brought the picture you gave us to show and share at school. Simon has been telling everyone about the army ants and is already planning our next trip down. I am starting a new production at work that should have me working some long hours. How unfortunate,however I do end my contract in May and get to spend the summer gardening,camping and hanging out with Haley. The sun is shining here but the snow hasn't stopped it truly sucked to have to slip into our winter boots again. Please send our hellos to Debbie and we'll talk to you this time next year when we're planning our next family journey. This time we're going to see a volcano. Thanks again , Silvie

Hi Debbie & Rick, I just checked out the photos on your newsletter, they look great! I just wanted to say a HUGE thank you for looking after us and generally for a great few days and nights in January. Somehow I made it to Nicuagra and after sleeping for about 15 hours I had a great time there. Love, Nikki

Rick, So the tan has all but faded completely but if I close my eyes real tight, I can still picture the kick ass sunset from the first nite. Thanks again to both you and Debbie for hosting us yet again this year. Special thanks to Debbie for my pharmacia run...next year the goal is for no random illnesses. Tell all hello and that I wish I was still there with them. Until next time, Pura Vida. CJA

Rick and Debbie, Thanks once again for being such gracious hosts last month. What has become an annual trip never seems to disappoint. Everything from the stunning views, the great food, beautiful weather and good company. I especially want to thank you for welcoming Kristin this year. We truly had a great time.
Thanks again and take care. Scott

Rick and Debbie- I wanted to thank you for the wonderful stay at Rancho Armadillo. I was absolutely blown away by your place and Playas del Coco. The vistas and scenery were fabulous. I am very much missing my fresh managos at breakfast this week.. Thank you for your immense hospitality, you could not have provided a warmer welcome for my first trip to Costa Rica. Here's to many more!
Thank you,
Kristin

Dear Rick, Already back in the Amsterdam since almost 3 weeks but still when I close my eyes I can picture myself at your lovely ranch. Of all our accommodation in the 15-days trip through Costa Rica we enjoyed staying at your place the most. I will keep memories of the wonderful place, the warm hospitality and beautiful surroundings close to my heart. I really hope that one day we can return and then even bring friends or family as your place deserves another visit! Once more thank you ever so much for being such a great host for us and for helping our with the cooking of our meal ;-). I will absolutely recommend and convince friends whenever visiting your area to stay at your place. I wish you a good summer season with only pleasant guests
All the best and warmest regards, Simone & Marcel

Dear Rick, Greetings from sunny San Francisco. We made it back unscathed - even made it through Houston's airport this time. We are slowly snapping back into reality, but can't stop thinking about our truly amazing time spent in Costa Rica, specifically Rancho Armadillo. Seriously, we are still having dreams about it. Thank you so much for providing us with such a well-rounded and authentic Costa Rican experience. We couldn't have asked for a better combination of comfort, adventure, and cultural exposure in a country neither of us had ever been, or would ever know where to go on our own. You truly went out of your way to treat us like friends in your home rather than guests in your hotel, and helped us to utilize the time we had to see all we could. We would love to come back soon and will definitely refer friends and family to Rancho Armadillo in the mean time. We wish you the best of continued success, and thank you again for your hospitality and help. It was (and will likely continue to be) one of our most memorable trips ever. Pura Vida, Lisa and Franco

Hola Rick, Well, we are back in the States...whew! Had a decent trip home with avoiding hurricane activity in the gulf (on the plane). We had an absolutely WONDERFUL time--mostly due to your graciousness and the Rancho Armadillo "aura". I have many pics of the estate and views from our room, etc. I will probably try to post some to the TripAdvisor site with my review. Thanks, so much, for the great tips, great food, good ambience, and tons of information you gave us. It is not often that a proprietor/B&B owner, etc. is so helpful and spends so much time with the guests.
Thanks very much, again, for the wonderful visit and for your gracious and honest hospitality! Teresa A. Kopsa (and Hal of course...)

YIPEE! We're thrilled and can only imagine you are too! Congratulations to you and the Detroit Red Wings! We still talk and talk about our incredible adventure to Costa Rica. While we were there, we deeply appreciated how much you guided our decisions and took care of us. But now that a year has passed and we have shared our experiences with friends who have returned from their own Costa Rican adventures, know just how much help and protection you provided for us. We had a fantastic trip. Many have not been as fortunate as we were and their experiences were not nearly as much fun, as interesting or trouble-free as ours! Thanks again for everything! Once the kids are a bit older, we will return and hope you and Rancho Armadillo will still be there! Cindy, Doug, Charlie and Anna

Hi Rick, It's Severine and Francois! We had such an amazing time in Costa Rica, very nice country and very good vibe and atmosphere. Although we really liked our stay in El Coco, all made up thanks to your kindness and beautiful place, we found the rest of our trip very nice too. The Arenal Volcano is so impressive that you feel very little. We saw some lava at night, we swam in the hot springs pools, we (Francois) swam at the bottom of the 70m waterfall (La Fortuna waterfall; so beautiful), we did a 2 hours walking trip on the hanging bridge, where Francois' been literally attacked by army ants (he went on the 2 hours jungle tour wearing flip flops...). All that in 1 day and a half really if you don't count the driving time We arrived at Samara beach on Sunday afternoon, and after finding a nice little place to stay (Tico Lodge Adventure), we headed to the beach where they had organized football games on the beach (girls' game and then boys' game). we tried surfing (not too difficult with an instructor to tell you what to do and when to get up on your board, but extremely difficult when practicing on your own). Then we headed down to Montezuma, driving along the coast and even on the beach for around 10mn. Montezuma, very charming fishing port, with a nice beach, and a unique little town center. We are now back at work and looking almost everyday at our trip pictures! Good memories! Thank you very very much again for making our stay at your place so nice and easy and for all the recommendations and directions. Take care for now. Francois and Severine

Hi Rick! We had such a great time and we can't thank you enough. It's been a bit of a struggle to adjust back to life in DC though after such a great time down there! The waterfall and cat rescue center were great fun. Thanks again for all of the work that you put in to making our wedding absolutely perfect. Lee

Hola Rick-I wanted to drop you a brief note of appreciation for your hospitality while Monique and I were on vacation in CR last week. You have a GREAT estate and our stay there was enjoyable and memorable. We look forward to staying with you again on our next trip to CR (which I hope is very soon). Please add me to your newsletter so we can stay abreast of the happenings in Coco .Regards, Greg & Monique

We are all home safely…It only took until 4:30 pm for the second shift to actually leave Costa Rica… it was bloody hot…so we all managed to sweat off a few of the pounds you added. Thank you both for a wonderful time and for being so patient. Everyone was thrilled with the trip and it really was because you made it happen. I can't thank you enough and that comes from all 15 of us!! Sanna

Hi Rick, Just wanted you to know we made to San Jose via the short cut, we did make a wrong turn into Puntarenas for lunch, and wow, it's a dump, but no troubles. Had to take a detour on the pass, but it just routed us through a residential area, beautiful!!!!! Stopped at a bar in Attenas and also bought some more coffee I swear we met Juan Valdez. We would never have seen the coffee country without your tips, we really appreciate it . Loved every minute of our trip to Costa Rica , The Rancho Armadillo was our favorite stop because of you and you awesome hospitality. Thank you and all the friendly critters say hello to Twitchy. We'll never forget him. Sincerely, Julie and Mark A. Perrino

Hi Rick and Debbie,
As I sit back in my office and watch yet another winter storm blow through, I am seriously missing the warm sun and evening stars! Each year I come back is the "best year ever" and I am already looking forward to next year. I cannot thank you enough for your hospitality and generosity; it is so amazing to come to place far away from home yet feel like you are at home. It was great to catch-up and spend time with just the two of you plus Amanda and Erin as well (sometimes those days are really the best ever). Best, CJA

Hi Rick and Debbie, We wanted to thank you again for making our stay wonderful! We loved your place and appreciated all your help and hospitality. It all made for a great time! We also miss that warm Costa Rican weather. It's raining and cold in San Diego right now. We hope to return in the future.Thanks for everything!! Jane and Karl Wehrle and recovering sunburned Stephen

Hi Rick and Deb, it has taken me this long to write to you, diving back into freezing life in Colorado. You guys are the best, we feel so lucky to have met you!!! Right after we came home, Nico got invited (by a boyfriend from preschool), for breakfast on a private jet, and I came with her. I brought pictures from Costa Rica, so the jet people got very excited to possibly fly with us to see the blue ocean again. We will see, it sure is a great idea. We will be back. With Lots of Love, Jana

Hi Rick and Debbie! Thank you again for a wonderful stay at Rancho Amardillo. It was such a great way to end our stay in Costa Rica. Ironically, the weather has gotten a little mild up here and it is above zero and the snow is melting. Our tans are fading fast though. all the best!
Maria and Adam

Hi Rick, Thanks again for the wonderful hospitality and making our trip to Costa Rica that much more memorable! We really had a great time, and are looking to plan our return trip. As soon as we have dates we'll run them by you to check for availability.
James & Meredith Marzano

My husband and I recently stayed at Rancho for our honeymoon and loved it. I did a ton of research on many different destinations for our trip and decided on Costa Rica and Rancho Armadillo b/c of the beautiful scenery, exotic location, friendly locals, exciting excursions and great reviews from Trip Advisor. ......If you are used to staying in a large all inclusive and having a tour guide drive you and 20 other people to an excursion this is not the place to stay. If you love adventure and can handle renting a car and driving with the locals then you will love this vacation. Rick the owner went so above and beyond from the first email I sent to him. He will give you great advice and ideas for planning your trip. If you are planning to stay there I suggest you get his advice before you make any plans. I did all of the planning so when my husband and I arrived in Costa Rica he was a bit nervous. Rick took all of our worries away. The resort was a little hidden paradise. Rick gives you a great at home feeling and also has so much knowledge of the plants and animals on the estate. The rooms are very low key but well kept and you don't ever have to worry about your stuff getting stolen. The pool and bar/restaurant area was so relaxing and beautiful.
Melissa & Phillip Peterson

Hola Rick,
Tom, Nancy, and I all arrived safely in the US with all of our luggage. It was a most uneventful trip home as compared with our travel in Costa Rica.
We miss the fresh fruits for breakfast with conversation and all the fun that we had while visiting with you. Thanks for all of your helpfulness with our travel plans. We really appreciated your going the extra mile for your guests. The dinner was superb and we will never find one that will compare. We will pass the word along and maybe one day we can return. We miss it already.
Thanks so much for all you did,
Pura Vida,
Molly, Tom, and Helen

Dear Rick and Debbie, yes we are alive and doing well and how time fly's and how many times do you think Diane and I said we‘ve got to email Rick, then we had a glass of vino and what do you know, the night was over. To you both an incredibly big thank you for all that you did. The entire gang had a great time and all want to go back. We said no problem, just buy yourselves a ticket. Your ideas, efforts, and warmth made our trip. Diane was so lucky to find you on the web. Resort hotels are not our game. Take care, Booth and Co.

Rick and Debbie, you truly are wonderful hosts, and have a beautiful paradise. You have done a fantastic job on my Scott and Roseannes wedding, and fullfilled all of our needs so well. I had such a great time, and I cannot wait to come back. I cannot thank you enough for the experience. For the first time in my life, I learned to relax.
Thanks Again
Catherine

All the superlatives from previous reviews are true! We spent some of our honeymoon at Rancho Armadillo, and had an incredible time. One of the best things about it is the friendly atmosphere, which is all due to Rick, the owner. He spends time with and gets to know his guests, and helps the guests to get to know each other. He'll even help you plan your trip before you go, and gives great advice! He directed us to some less-touristy and very worthwhile activities. The grounds are very pretty, and the rooms comfortable. We'd go back in a second!
Nina & Josh

Hi Rick and Debbie, Buenos Dias! Thank you again so much for all your hospitality during our stay in Coco! We loved your place - Rancho Armadillo, and your company! Rick, I also appreciate all your input and advice on our trip, all your suggestions made us have a wonderful tip and fall in love with Costa Rica! We all look forward to coming back! Pure Vida! Nancy, Glen, Mike and Rhonda

Rick & Debbie, Thank you again for a great time at Rancho Armadillo. This was my third trip, and as always, you made me feel at home. I really appreciate all the wonderful advice, comfort, and guidance you give. Plus, it's really nice to just hang out with you both. Looking forward to the next trip.
Scott

Sr Vay, Thank you for the wonderful experience last week. I have heard so many things about Rancho Armadillo and Costa Rica that I thought it couldn't be as good as the stories but.... it was! You really know how to take care of people and that is greatly appreciated. Visiting another country can sometimes be daunting but not in your hands. I am recommending the country and especially Rancho Armadillo to all friends, family and co-workers who are thinking of visiting Costa Rica. Be sure to also give Debbie my thanks - her guidance to a "newbie" was also appreciated! All the best, Jerry

Hi Rick - Our stay was so much better than we ever imagined and your constant input and recommendations made all the difference between a good vacation and an outstanding one. We cannot think of anything negative at all. Your place really feels like being in someone's neat home, the rooms were comfortable, your dinner was outstanding, the other guests were interesting and varied, your tour and restaurant recommendations were right on. And your extra efforts on our behalf to find out about Midnight mass and local fiestas were really appreciated. Our teenage kids enjoyed themselves tremendously. It was the right balance between chilling and interesting activities. Your hammocks seem like a very distant memory by now. I hope you keep up the good work because we have passed your info to a number of friends already. Michele, Les, Dean and Noelle Janka

Rick and Debbie, An email subject header of "thanks" just doesn't really do justice to how much I appreciate being welcomed to Rancho Armadillo every January. This trip was exactly what I needed, right when I needed it. It was so great to be back in a place that I feel so welcomed and at home in. Rick, I am going to put the pasta tip to the test tomorrow night. Hopefully my dish will turn out as awesome as yours. If you have any more of those kinds of tips or simple recipes to go along with them, I am forever a willing student. Debbie, hope that you are enjoying the time with your family this week! I assume that we saw all the wild life last week and it should be pretty quite around there for them over the next couple of days:)
Until next year, Pura Vida
Courtney

Hi Rick and Debbie - Thank you, thank you for all that you did to make Bess and Paul's wedding so very special. It went so very smoothly. Everything turned out much better than we hoped for or dreamed. What a story book affair, they were both just glowing. Special thanks for all of your help with the rehearsal dinner, gifts for their room, etc. etc. You went way above and beyond. Also, for helping arrange the plans for our extended stay. When any of our friends travel to Costa Rica we will recommend your place. Again, just wanted to say thank you. God Bless!
Love, Carl and Pat

Hola, Rick! Just a note to tell you and Debbie how much we appreciate all your extra special treatment while "in your care" in Costa Rica. From start (picking us up at the airport at midnight) to finish (our lovely exit photos), you helped make this one of our most memorable trips. We especially enjoyed the ambiance of your beautiful place; the breathtaking ocean views, the sunsets, the breakfasts, the pool, the hammocks, our lovely rooms, the landscaping and primitive artifacts, and fun and delicious dinners "in town" at Coco Beach!!! Rancho Armadillo certainly exceeded our expectations in making us feel comfortable and at home. Then there was Jaime!!! What a delightful, charming guide! (and to think he had attended school in Missouri, no less!) He, too, took excellent care of us while on our adventures to the volcano and rainforest. We felt as though he was our friend as well as our instructor of Tico culture and history. Again, Rick, muchisimas gracias por todo y ojala que regresemos pronto.
Pura Vida!
Mary and Bob Vieth & Bill and Sandy Smith

We returned to 32 f weather which isn't bad & it's quite sunny so the transition isn't as bad as I expected. Its's supposed to be 60 this weekend, albeit temporarily, but at least spring is around the corner. We've downloaded our pix & they've brought back hundreds of wonderful moments and it already seems too long ago. We are determined to return.The kids are still raving about the fabulous time they had & very much appreciated your casual, comfortable style. It's probably the best family vacation we've ever had. We miss not only your beautiful country & lovely hotel but also you & Deb with your easy comfortable manner, humour & priceless advice. We couldn't imagine better hosts & hope to see you again before too long.
Pura Vida & Hasta Luego, Ray & Sandy.

Hello Rick and Debbie! I just wanted to let you know what a great time I had at your place! It was so beautiful as well as fun! Every activity we did was awesome and I really appreciate your advice as we didn't have to do any guesswork! It was so nice to go out and do really intense things like surfing, zip chording and then come back to such a great place to relax! As a college students CJ and I really, REALLY appreciated the restaurant recommendations, breakfasts and the meal you made. We haven't stopped talking about how well we were fed! Anyway's, thanks again for making the trip so awesome,
Adrienne.

Bill and I want to thank you for the wonderful time we had staying at your estate and also for all the helpful advice that allowed us to have such a wonderful experience in beautiful Costa Rica. We arrived home safely to -5 F weather in our thin little coats. The only casualty was my favorite plate from Guatil. Well, you know what that means - we'll just have to come back again! Seriously, we do hope to come back next year and will contact you when we start making plans. Our pictures turned out beautifully and are a lovely reminder of the great time we had. Take care, Val Kolb vkolb@charter.net

Dear Rick and Debbie, Before we booked with you, we read all the testimonials and thought, sounds wonderful-could they be exaggerating? After our visit, we all wanted to shout to everyone( and we have!) that Rancho Armadillo is one of the most unique settings in all of Costa Rica. We have traveled all around the country and have not found another place like it! The serenity, ambiance,beautiful surroundings, excellent accommodations, wonderful breakfasts, the incredible dinner prepared and served by our most gracious hosts, the close proximity to town and great restaurants, the availability of tours and activities, make staying with you a must! We definitely will be back! Thanks once again for the wealth of information provided to us, both before and after we arrived. The rest of our trip was wonderful, but we found ourselves comparing everything to Rancho Armadillo.It truly is paradise! See you again, soon,
Kathryn and Michael Macpherson mickat@tbaytel.net

Rancho Armadillo is one of the most amazing places I have ever been. It is a home away from home...the difference is this home has views of the ocean, beautiful flowers/vegetation, a platform full of hammocks, a great pool and the best staff ever to help with whatever you may need during your stay. This is the perfect destination for one who is looking for equal parts relaxation and adventure. Be sure to ask the owner for his best picks of non-tourist destinations for adventure--think chartered sail boats for a day of snorkeling, hidden local waterfalls, hooking you up with a surfer for a day of lessons, or a canopy tour recommendation so you can fly with the monkeys. You can close out your days with a view of an amazing night sky full of stars, be sure to ask for the lights around the property to be dimmed to enjoy it to the fullest!
Ian & Helen Bourne bourneian@msn.com

Dear Rick, We just wanted you to know how much we enjoyed our stay with you and we all agree that it was like staying with a relative who really cared about us!!! We thank you for all you did for us from restaurant recommendations to delicious breakfasts. You are a wonderful person and give so much to others. We feel lucky to have found you.
Best wishes for 2006,
Connie, Larry, and Tom Randolph LHRArchitect@aol.com

Dear Rick and Debbie, Returning home is quite a challenge after being in Costa Rica ....computers, traffic, stress and having to wear shoes again! Skip and I keep returning in our minds to the wonderful experiences we had and want to thank you for all the time and effort you put into making our trip so very memorable. Thanks to you, we were able to get a glimpse into the real Costa Rica -- the waterfall hidden from the tourist eye, the tortilla factory in Santa Cruz, the horseback ride with William into the hills and all the hints and ideas you gave us about our time on the road while driving across the country. We truly felt that Rancho Armadillo was the perfect choice for our stay in Coco. There's nothing like getting up with the sun and sitting on your deck in a hammock overlooking the Pacific while listening to howler monkeys in the trees....or floating in the warm swimming pool (along with a frog or two) while watching the sun set over the ocean. We miss the leisurely lifestyle and the wonderful adventures. We miss the rice and beans (and the tequila). We miss the dirt roads and the potholes and the dogs on every corner... Thank you for making so many memories for us. Gabi and Skip gabrielle@malmbergtravel.com

Dear Rick & Debbie:
Thank you so much for everything you did to make our wedding day something we will remember forever. Our stay at Rancho Armadillo was unbelievable from the fresh fruit at breakfast to the Tequila-sipping sunsets at the pool. We recommend your place to everyone we talk to. We can't wait to come back in February to celebrate our one-year anniversary. Ron & Jen Spada chefspada@vzavenue.net

Rick: Many thanks for everything last week. I feel very fortunate to have found you & spent the time at your home that we did. Brian and I felt like we were among friends--- much like the headline of that newspaper article you have posted near the kitchen.
We had a great drive back, stopped at the both the waterfall & the rescue center. Avoided all potholes and semis, and got back, safe and sound, and with a wonderful perspective on things, thanks to the time we spent at Rancho Armadillo. It was such a joy, above and beyond what we expected--- we hope to see you someday in the future.
And thanks for sharing the chocolate sauce--- it was delicious!
Pura Vida,
Diana Brodeur dsbrodeur@excite.com

Hello Rick, Conchu and I made it home safely. Thanks for all your hospitality -- we enjoyed staying with you. We miss having that nice pool and poolside all to ourselves!
Best wishes,
mark markbaur@highstream.net

Rick, We want to thank you for the time we had at your place this past week. You certainly went over and above what we had ever expected. Your help and tips were the primary reason that we had such a wonderful time in the gem of Costa Rica. Like we told you before we left, had it not been for you we would not have known what to do or where to go. We could have figured it out, but by then our vacation would have been over!!!! Thanks for all the personal attention you took with our wedding from the flowers, to the cake and champagne. The way you put together the wedding with all the trimmings was again "over the top." It truly was the best vacation of our lives. You seem to take a personal interest in your guests to make sure they all have the best time possible. We have told all of out friends about you and the Rancho Armadillo Estates. Again Rick, we truly thank you!
Pura Vida, Tom and Sue
Sue. Oetken@ROADWAY.COM

Dear Rick & Debbie:
Thank you so much for everything you did to make our wedding day something we will remember forever. our stay at Rancho Armadillo was unbelievable from the fresh fruit at breakfast to the Tequila-sipping sunsets at the pool. We recommend your place to everyone we talk to. We can't wait to come back in February to celebrate our one-year anniversary. Ron & Jen Spada
chefspada@vzavenue.net

Hola Rick -- So I'm sitting at my desk on a rainy, cool afternoon in Washington, DC, overlooking the airport ramp and parking lot, and decided I needed a Coco fix... I pulled up your website to glance at the photos of the view from your (and indirectly our) vistas. To my happy surprise, I also saw the mention of our land purchase in your May newsletter. Just wanted to thank you for including us in your news, and for welcoming us into the estate. Our visit was relaxing and memorable, and we thank you again for all of your Ranchadillo hospitality, bird/insect/animal/flora and fauna advice, and just plain good company! We will be back as soon as the schedules of our work life allow, and look forward to seeing Debbie at that time too. Until then, we'll be living vicariously through you. :-) What a drag that for now work has to interfere with living la pura vida in Coco.
Warm Regards and Many Thanks, Kristen & Eric
kristen.rensch@signatureflight.com

Just wanted to say thanks again for helping to make our vacation so enjoyable. We have lots of friends who like to travel, and I’m recommending Rancho Armadillo if any of them plan a trip to CR. Thanks again for all the great tips and info. and for sharing such a unique place. It was one of the best family trips we’ve ever taken.
Barbara Bell BarbaraBell@JoelBell.net

Thank you again for a giving us such a wonderful time at your Estate!
We talk about it everyday and we can't wait to come back next year! You are a very fortunate man to live somewhere most people only get to vacation. I miss all your animal friends and the wonderful fruit you fed us every morning!
Thank you again and again and again!
Love, Clare and Scott c.geyer@nhs-inc.com

Hola Rick, A belated, but nevertheless sincere "thank you" for our 4 days at the Rancho Armadillo a few weeks ago. Through your efforts to make us feel as comfortable as possible, you ensured that we could start, continue and finish our vacation in Costa Rica in a great frame of mind, armed with loads of helpful information, tips and suggestions. Our room was just great, the pool and facilities wonderful, and you were a most gracious host. We loved eating out in the evening - again following your recommendations - and just to veg out for 4 days was the perfect antidote for a 7 - month winter season! Our travels and accommodations after we left you went extremely well. In fact, the best tip you gave us was Playa Carillo. We ended up staying there for our final 3 days, and it was just fabulous - the beach, and the place we stayed (El Sueno).We shall be definitely be returning to Costa Rica again, so may well see you some time in the future.
Best wishes from the three of us,
Pura Vida, Brian, Rasa & Sarunas.
brian@vacationsinc.com

Rick and Debbie: Thanx so much for the great hospitality and accomdations you gave us for Jen and Ron's wedding. You could not have made a more memorable and enjoyable stay for us. Kudo's also to your staff. They are obviously well trained and well managed. Everything was absolutely perfect. We are in the process of rounding up a crew for a return trip in February, 2006. I can't think of a better escape destination. Thanx again. We will remember last week forever. Lynn and Nancy Burlingame
lynn_burlingame@ryder.com

Rancho Armadillo is the most fabulous place I have ever visited. We loved Costa Rica. Debbie and Rick are fantastic hosts. No only did they plan our unforgettably beautiful wedding, they entertained our 26 friends and family for 1 full week. Not a day went by where we didn't have some sort of activity available to us. We enjoyed Surfing, Horseback riding, a Waterfall hike, Canopy rides, Boat trip with snorkeling, Spa arrangements at the estate and many nights of wonderful dinners and socializing. They were also kind enough to plan our wedding rehearsal pig roast & bonfire. For anyone considering getting married in Costa Rica …..go for it, you will not be disappointed. Getting married abroad can be someone intimidating because you are stepping out on blind faith that everything will be to your liking but you can rest assured that Debbie and Rick will take care of you and your event will turn out perfectly. I have nothing but great things to say about the Rancho Armadillo Estate and all of our family and friends would agree. We can't wait to get back. Thanks again Debbie and Rick…..we all love you! Darrell & Trisha Clemons, Family & Friends
rico1214@msn.com

Dearest Rick and Debbie "Deb", Thank you so very much for filling my prescription for sun, rest and relaxation. I couldn't have chosen a more perfect place to "chill out". I miss coming to the pool for breakfast, cavorting with "Damita" the parrot, seeing Marisol's happy face, the iguanas, the birds, the insects, and I miss you! I left feeling as though I'd made new friends who I can't wait to share with my husband. We'll most definitely try to book with the Rancho Armadillo family when Costa Rica beckons us inthe future. I had a ball spending time with you both, sampling Rick's spectacular cuisine, enjoying a hammock on the platform, waking up to beautiful bird songs, dipping in the crystal pool, the snorkeling trip with Deb on "Cool Runnings", exploring the property and the charming town of Coco, and just feeling relaxed and happy. Thank you so much for sharing your Costa Rican Paradise. I'll take my memories with me wherever I go. Much love to all, Amy akadams@mac.com

Hi Rick, Thanks again for a wonderful time. We loved Rancho Armadillo!!! It's a special place and we really enjoyed meeting you. Felt like I learned more about Costa Rica from you than any guide book I looked at. Tamarindo was a different experience. Had a good time, but definitely more touristy. We appreciated your words of caution aswe could see security was a big issue at the hotels. Pity I didn't heed your advise on the sun. I turned over every third song…but then didn't quit!!! It's always that last day… when you think you haven't gotten a tan… that you throw caution (or the higher level sunscreens) to the wind. The boys loved the surfing…or attempts at it. Everyone “got up” …but just barely. Not ready for Witches Rock yet. We never really left the beaches (Tamarindo and Playa Grande) or the pools. Glad we did activities from your place. Barbara Hardy (Chris, Stuart and Matthew) barbhardy@bellsouth.net

Hi Rick and Debbie, I wanted to say thank you again for showing us such a great time this past week. Your hospitality was more than generous. You made me feel welcome and comfortable from day one. And the tips you made on shopping, restaurants andactivities really helped round out a wonderful vacation. Also, please extend an additional thanks to the staff – they all added to our enjoyment as well. I'll definitely be coming back again, and telling all of my friends.
Thanks again. Scott Scott.Navarro@omd.com

Hello! I just wanted to thank you for your hospitality last week. This was my third time staying at Rancho Armadillo and every trip has been amazing. Your property is absolutely beautiful and the meals are delicious as always! I know that I'll spend the next few weeks dreaming of paradise. Thanks again!
Amanda agrasham@hotmail.com

Rick & Debbie - We've visited Playas Del Coco several times and it's always easy to find a reason to return.
This trip we were thrilled to discover Rancho Armadillo and the extreme hospitality you two cultivate at your unique Costa Rican retreat, a home away from home you generously share with visitors seeking their own little bit of Pura Vida. From the gallo pinto and gourmet meal you specially prepared at our request, to the spectacular panoramic views from the breakfast table and pool, to the solitude we found just relaxing surrounded by the beauty of your property, Rancho Armadillo set a new standard for our travels - this won't be our last visit! We hope others are fortunate enough to spend their time in Costa Rica with you. Best wishes for many more years in Paradise & Warmest Regards, Eric & Kristen, October 2004 ehietala@yahoo.com

Hello! We are very late with our thank you's....but we have been thinking almost everyday about our wonderful honeymoon in Costa Rica at Ranch Armadillo this past June. We had an absolutely wonderful time in paradise and cannot wait for our next trip. We have been telling everyone what a great time we had. We feel like we had the whole country to ourselves, it was so romantic. There were no crowds, virtually no one was around. I cannot see why this was considered off season, since we had absolutely beautiful and sunny weather the whole time, except for some really cool lightning a few of the nights.We especially appreciate the hospitality that you and Debbie showed us. We felt more like guests in your home than customers. You made us so comfortable, yet we had a ton of privacy. We really liked the way you helped plan our day each morning. Every place you sent us never disappointed. We agree that two the highlights of the trip were the wonderful aromatherapy massage with Sue and then when we went to the waterfall you sent us to and we were the only ones there. Hope to see you soon! Scott & Melissa North melissas75@hotmail.com

Rick, We know that it is customary for the consumer to get the thank-you's but Sandy and I wanted to thank you for being such a gracious host. Our short stay with you at Rancho Armadillo was truly great. What a place to take our daughter and her husband to celebrate her 30th birthday. We wanted to especially acknowledge your culinary skills with the snapper and dorado that we caught. The dinner that you prepared was more than we expected and we felt that we had dined at one of the finest restaurants in Costa Rica . The evening's entertainment of gazing to the heavens was the way all vacations should be. We plan to see you again next year.
Bill Fry fryfarm@aol.com

Hi Rick and Debbie, Kristin and I would like to thank you for our very pleasant stay. You have a truly beautiful place and my hat is off to you for finding the location and all your improvements. You both are very gracious hosts and we appreciate you sharing your home with us…….Costa Rica is great - you guys are in the right place. Again, many thanks for everything, including all your trip planning assistance. Maybe we'll be able to return soon. Best Wishes, Brian and Kristin Kohrman BKohrman@easycare.com

Hola, Rick: I just wanted to thank you again for your wonderful hospitality. Since this was the first time traveling alone for me you made it very stress free and I will spread the word about what a great place you have. Hopefully I will get to return someday. I have attached a few pictures for you. My favorite is the hammock! Thanks again, Pura Vida, Lisa rxdx117@yahoo.com

Dear Rick and Debbie, We sigh a lot and wish we were back down there. Thank you for such wonderful hospitality, we really felt at home and loved all of the wildlife! Your place is truly gorgeous and hopefully we will get to see it again sometime soon, it was our single best vacation ever!! We did see Arenal plume some smoke and rumble, plus a sloth on the sky walk Thanks again, pura vida and muchas gracias!!!!!
Danielle and Charlie daniellebamford@hotmail.com

Hola Rick, We all had a wonderful time with you, your daughter, Kaz and Nils over the holidays. I wasn't sure how well staying in one spot for 10 days would work but what a place to spend 10 days in - just beautiful, and you could not have been a better host. Got a kick out of the photos in the January newsletter. We think of you every time we look up at the stars at night and wish we were there. It was below freezing for almost seven weeks after we got home - had a 100 degree temperature shift on the day we got back. Thanks again for taking such good care of the family - Jessica is still cooking up a storm. All the best, Barb, Jim, Jessica and Bryan jimburke@ameritech.net

Hi Rick - I just wanted to write a quick hello and tell you how sad I still am to have had to leave. I'm already trying to convince everyone I know to come visit you! Justin and I had such a wonderful time and could not stop talking about how great you and your place were- It was the highlight of our week in beautiful Costa Rica - we really can't thank you enough. Hope to see you soon! Thanks, Sara & Justin sara_alexis@yahoo.com

Hi Rick and Debbie, Kristin and I would like to thank you for our very pleasant stay. You have a truly beautiful place and my hat is off to you for finding the location and all your improvements. You both are very gracious hosts and we appreciate you sharing your home with us. Costa Rica is great - you guys are in the right place. Again, many thanks for everything including all your trip planning assistance. Maybe we'll be able to return soon. Best Wishes, Brian and Kristin Kohrman BKohrman@easycare.com

Ron and I had the best vacation of our lives, thanks to our stay at Ranch Armadillo and the great hospitality of you and Debbie! We loved Costa Rica and its people, enjoyed the restaurants and attractions that you recommended to us and we thank you especially for the personal attention that you both gave us. A special thanks for the wonderful dinner that you prepared for us and for allowing us to observe the preparation. We would like to come back to Costa Rica some day and staying at Rancho Armadillo would be a necessity! We have recommended Rancho Armadillo to several friends who are all interested in visiting, and we hope they do. Thanks again for a vacation that set standards for future vacations!
Pura Vida! Ron Schroeder and Linda Vitale Vjandlvitale@attbi.com
PS - We listen to Dan Fogelberg and dream of balmy evenings up in the platform!

Rick, I want to thank you and Debbie for making our stay at Rancho Armadillo such a special one. We have been raving about our experience there since we left. It was the single best lodging experience we have ever had (and we have stayed in many four and five star hotels worldwide). It was the combination of the spacious room, bar with ocean view, 24 hour ocean sea breeze, birds galore, bats hanging in the eaves, quiet poolside evenings, fresh mangos, iguanas and 200 year old Guanacaste trees, orchids, artifacts in the garden and a great breakfast every morning. Most of all, your hospitality was unbeatable. We did not want to leave and definitely want to return some day. Take care and keep up the good work.
Steven Coon & Family scoon@rapidbuiltproperties.com

Well alas we are home again. What a wonderful time we had... and thank you. Tonight we showed family our video and photos, and ya' know... it never does it justice...Luckily sobriety prevailed long enough to take some wonderful shots of your gardens, pool , views and shots of you both. Indeed we had such a unique experience with you; Saturn, Jupiter et al. The food was beautiful, the company equal....... I Gotta gloat a little... Vick and I did a little surfing ourselves!!!
Thank you much,
Best,
Sarah (and I speak for Jim, Pete and Vick) sarah_gulliver@yahoo.com

Hello Rick and Deb,
What an incredible time we had at your lovely estate. By far it was the most relaxing place we stayed. All your extra touches were so much appreciated. Rick, the dinner you prepared for us was outstanding - we have gone over the recipes over and over in our heads so not to forget. Each breakfast was gratefully appreciated as well and supplied me with more than enough energy to get us through all our exploring. Regarding shopping, Deb, you were right on - you can't beat the prices offered in your area. We were all very grateful for that tip - especially the girls. Again, our sincere thanks for a wonderful and affordable stay that had all the luxuries we needed. It was truly fantastic and we hope to return someday. Keep in touch
Vick and Peter pmarion@lucastree.com

Dear Rick, We just wanted to express our thanks for all your hospitality and kindness during our stay at Rancho Armadillo last month. We had a wonderful time and we were very impressed with your beautiful establishment. We appreciated all the great tips you provided including the Los Pumas shelter, restaurants and waterfalls. We saw many things we would have missed otherwise. Thank you again and we will be in touch during our next visit to Costa Rica! Sincerely, Rich, Kelly, Alana and Bianca Mounce charlesk@attbi.com

Dear Rick and Debbie-- How to compose an e-mail that in in any way can convey our deepest thanks to you for your generosity, kindness, and good will? I don't know what to say (you and your beautiful property really blew us away!! we had no idea that we could have such an amazing, relaxing, exciting time) except THANK YOU. Thank you, thank you. We'll DEFINATELY be back! We both loved Costa Rica and are going to start working on our "retirement" fund to buy property there. So we'll see what happens!
Lynn Sally lynn_sally@hotmail.com

Rick - I wanted to drop you a line sooner but never got around to it, sorry. Anyway we all had the best time on our trip and your place was by far the most unbelievable place we stayed at! I want to thank you for going above and beyond with your hospitality! You have truly set up your own piece of paradise. Thanks for sharing! I hope to be back soon. We have already discussed returning next time with our wives and girlfriends. ! Pura Vida!
Mark Hutchins markhuckins@hotmail.com

hey rick --
just wanted to add my 2 cents to your testimonials....i'm sitting here in my office, back in the states for 48 hours now and i'm dreaming of my days at rancho armadillo. if i sit really quietly, i can almost hear the hammocks calling my name! your hospitality, the views, seeing the rings of saturn through your telescope...the days and nights i spent there were the best of my trip to costa rica! now i know why steve's come back 6 years running... see you next year --
jenni jenni_r@ncjwla.org

Hope this finds you both happy and healthy in Paradise. I have been putting off sending you a THANK you as it finalizes the realization that out time is over, but just for now. We will see you again. For me it was the best vacation we have ever had. So relaxing and beautiful. The slow pace really aided in the enjoyment. Your place is the first stop for us and will highly recommend to other travelers. Our photo's have been developed and are a great reminder to us of the days spent in your country. I must admit the Bagaces Waterfall was a highlight for me ( the photo's prove it, my eyes are wide open like a child's on adventure)
Thanks again for all you did.
Warmest regards, Mary & Dave InstallersDirect@aol.com

I'm sitting at my desk at the Master Chorale thinking fondly of Costa Rica and the wonderful time we had. I've recommended Rancho Armadillo to all my friends. And I'm envying you your one job each day: get up in the morning. Of course that's not true at all because you bend over backwards to make your guests' stay perfect. I want to thank you again for the glorious time we had. It was so very special to be able to stay at your wonderful estate. You and Minor took such good care of us. Thanks to both of you.
Marjorie & Roger Lindbeck mgl@pacbell.net

Greetings! This is Don & Cari...just wanted to say thanks for the wonderful visit we had last week. Speaking for Brent & Chris as well, our visit at Rancho Armadillo was unquestionably the highlight of our trip. Your accommodations and hospitality were first rate, a stay we will probably never forget.
Don & Cari timberwest@hotmail.com

The whole Immenschuh Family wants to thank you for the super vacation
that we enjoyed at Rancho Armadillo and Costa Rica in general. People
have asked us if there was one particular highlight and no family member
can come up with a specific item, it was ALL that good. To us, it felt as if
we had old friends with a place in Costa Rica who invited us down for the
week. We enjoyed hanging out with you, sharing our daily experiences
and planning the next days activities. I know that wouldn't occur at a
traditional hotel Kent.Immenschuh@jedunn.com

You and your staff made the reunion with our daughter so memorable. It is
no surprise that she now wants to spend her honeymoon at the Rancho
Armadillo. Our parents, who travel extensively, have spoken so highly of
your accommodations and attentiveness. As to the two of us, we could not
have asked for more. The Rancho Armadillo was an experience we will never
forget and to which we look forward to returning. Thanks for your
attention to our needs, your assistance, and your forthright guidance and
information about Costa Rica. It was invaluable.
Brian and Khuelien Dretke dretkeb@eoni.com

Thank you for providing us with a perfect home base from which to see a few of the sights Costa Rica has to offer. We certainly enjoyed the atmosphere of tranquility and the good company and conversation provided by of all of you. We're back home safe and sound, and when things seem to get a little too much to handle we can always think back to the sights and sounds of Costa Rica and Rancho Armadillo. Thanks for providing some good de-stressing pictures for our memory banks.
Melissa & Richard izakrzy@att.net