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w h y A p p l e V a c a t i o n s i s N U M B E R O N E T O T H E S U N ! 7 THE HAPPIEST PLACE ON EARTH Costa Rica is a democratic and peaceful country. It abolished its army in 1949 and was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1987. It's literacy rate (96%) is the highest in the Americas. Costa Rica is one of the world's most desirable retirement destinations, and home to more Americans per capita than any other country outside of the U.S., thanks in part to its spring-like climate and low cost of living. Its government continues a long-time commitment to affordable access to one of the world's finest health care systems. The "Happy Planet Index" has placed Costa Rica on top of every country in the WORLD. The HPI measures a country's average subjective life satisfaction, life expectancy at birth, and ecological footprint per capita. SWISS TRAVEL COSTA RICA Upon your arrival, an Apple Representative from Swiss Travel Costa Rica will meet you at the airport, provide you with all the necessary documentation for your vacation, and guide you to your hotel transfer or rental car. Representatives will be available throughout your stay to help book optional excursions and more. Swiss Travel Costa Rica is an independent destination management company operating in Costa Rica and providing services to Apple Vacationers. Widely known as the most reputable and service-orientated destination management company in the country, its tour guides are highly qualified and certified by the Costa Rican Board of Tourism. All are fluent in English and Spanish and most have university degrees and significant experience in the management of tour groups. SUSTAINABLE TOURISM The Certification for Sustainable Tourism Program (CST) is regulated by the Costa Rican National Accreditation Commission. The program consists of 5 levels of sustainable tourism achievement–"5" meaning that the hotel is considered outstanding in terms of sustainability. CST is a product of the Costa Rican Tourism Board and designed to differentiate tourism businesses based on the degree to which they comply with a sustainable model of natural, cultural and social resource management. Apple Vacations is proud to offer a selection of CST recognized hotels. Look for the Sustainable Tourism icon next to the hotel's description. AV-OK TOTAL VACATION SECURITY The unexpected happens. Plan your vacation with confidence! Land only from only $ 29 99 1. Cancellation Change Waiver-This waiver allows you to cancel or change for any reason* up to the time that your flight check-in is closed. Non-refundable scheduled airfares and airline penalties are even covered! Choice of vacation vouchers or "cash back" for all vacation types including scheduled air. 2. Best Price Guarantee-If we advertise a discount on the exact same vacation that you have booked, you can claim the savings prior to departure. 3. Travel Insurance-High quality insurance with coverage for trip interruption, baggage, medical and more. *Restrictions apply. For more details, see page 36 at the back of this catalog, or visit: applevacations.com/avok STEP UP YOUR STAY! ® See more blue from your ocean view or relax in the Jacuzzi on your balcony. Upgrade to the premium category at a variety of hotels, and you'll enjoy exclusive VIP treatment such as waiter service on a private section of beach, access to the VIP lounge, exclusive amenities, concierge services and more. From optional excursions to room upgrades and more, Apple Vacations offers a wide variety of affordable vacation enhancements that are far more affordable than you might think. Ask your travel professional or check out the upgrades and extras featured on our website. SQUARE DEALS Square Deals are our best value vacation packages and are exclusive to Apple Vacations. They feature the lowest prices you'll find for the promised hotel Apple rating. You choose the destination, departure date and hotel Apple rating. We'll inform you of your hotel just prior to departure. In return for your flexibility, you'll save hundreds! When you choose a Golden Apple Square Deal, you've made a great choice, because Golden Apple Hotels are Apple Vacationers' favorites. Visit: applevacations.com/squaredeals