Costa Rica is a paradise of natural wonders – of outdoor activities to enjoy beneath the sun, out in the breeze, and amidst your bubble of nearest and dearest. Or all alone. Whatever and however you please.
We’ve said it before (and we’ll probably say it again): The decision to travel right now is a personal one. No one can make it for you.
What we can do, however, is share some information (and a few personal experiences and anecdotes) on what Costa Rica travel is like right now. Is it safe? What kind of restrictions are in place? What about the airport – what’s flying like, right now? And on and on.
And, if you do decide to travel, we can also help put your mind at ease with a selection of Costa Rica private villas and beach houses where you can keep your distance and have your vacation, too.
But first:
Costa Rica and COVID-19: What to Expect on Your Vacation
The first impression you’ll have is that Costa Rica feels safe.
And, within today’s global framework, Costa Rica is safe: Costa Rica has received the Safe Travels stamp from the World Travel and Tourism Council. This stamp certifies a destination as safe for travel, per 16 health and hygiene protocols.
https://www.stayintamarindo.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/stay_in_tamarindo_logo.png00Erin Raubhttps://www.stayintamarindo.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/stay_in_tamarindo_logo.pngErin Raub2021-01-21 10:48:002021-01-21 11:13:32Is Costa Rica a Safe Destination to Visit During COVID?
Travel to Costa Rica affords privacy, luxury, and plenty of outdoor activity – bathed in sunshine and kissed by ocean breeze. Give yourself something to look forward to in 2021!
Have you ever been quite so excited – hopeful, even – about turning the calendar page to a new year? Because, while 2020 has been challenging the world around, vaccine roll-outs are now underway and 2021 shows promise of better times to come. We have our fingers and toes crossed!
Here in Tamarindo, we’re happy to report that life has mostly returned to normal. Or, our new normal, at least: COVID protocols are comfortably in place: We’re masked, transparent barriers are erected at grocery stores, and disinfection is standard everywhere. And, at Stay in Tamarindo, we’ve prepared our vacation home for safe, sanitized travel. (Read more about our COVID-safe protocols.)
Here, you have the freedom to simply be with family and friends. Travel to Costa Rica and you can play on the beach, swim in the ocean, and soak in the sun. You can hike into solitary dry forest, explore backroads via ATV, and snorkel with only the fish as company. You can get outside. You can enjoy your vacation. You can be content – joyful, even!
Because, we’ve all missed those feelings of anticipation, of pure delight, of elation. Now is the time to feel them again, as you begin planning a trip to Costa Rica.
https://www.stayintamarindo.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/stay_in_tamarindo_logo.png00Erin Raubhttps://www.stayintamarindo.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/stay_in_tamarindo_logo.pngErin Raub2020-12-11 06:00:172020-12-10 19:03:13It’s [Almost] a New Year – Time to Travel to Costa Rica in 2021
You’re just one Costa Rica corona virus insurance policy away from paradise. Here, we detail all the requirements – plus four compliant local and international policies, including costs!
Travel in 2020 is unlike travel ever before: In addition to all the normal concerns – Do I have my passport? Did I pack the right type of shoes? What if the airline loses my luggage? – the pandemic has layered on a whole new tier of topics to consider.
Here’s one concern we can help allay: What is this Costa Rica corona virus travel insurance– (officially, COVID-19 or coronavirus, but we’ve adjusted to corona virus, to account for how many of our travelers are searching) – and what available policies will cover the requirements? More specifically, what’s the cheapest [qualifying] Costa Rica travel insurance available?
But first, let’s talk basics:
November 2020: Costa Rica Travel Requirements
How about a private, oven-view pool for the ultimate in luxury (not to mention, perfection in social distancing)?
As of November 2020, our national borders are open and Costa Rica corona virus protocols are evolving. Evolving to be easier-to-understand, that is!
Costa Rica’s simplified travel requirements are the following:
Traveler’s Medical Insurance (international or Costa Rican), effective for your visit and that covers at least $50,000 in medical expenses (including COVID) and a minimum $2,000 for COVID-related (possible quarantine) lodging expenses.
https://www.stayintamarindo.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/stay_in_tamarindo_logo.png00Erin Raubhttps://www.stayintamarindo.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/stay_in_tamarindo_logo.pngErin Raub2020-11-19 05:30:222020-12-07 15:17:45Costa Rica Corona Virus Travel Insurance: What You Need to Know + 4 Policies that Have You Covered
Talk about social distancing! There’s no better place to spend the holiday season – or to connect to your virtual office, the kids’ online school, or your colleagues – than from one of our exclusive Tamarindo vacation rentals – your own private enclave. (Pictured: Casa Ventana, in Tamarindo)
Oh hello, it’s been awhile, hasn’t it? Because wow, what a year! In some ways, 2020 feels like the punchline to a cringe-worthy riddle – when did a decade fall within the span of just a few months? – but in other ways, it’s just been… unprecedented. That’s a good word for it.
So, we thought we’d brighten your day with a little bit of much-needed precedent: The Costa Rican holiday season is upon us – and our Tamarindo vacation rentals are ready play! More than ready. We are delighted and excited and all the other good things!
Because, whether you’re planning a Christmas in Costa Rica or a New Year’s abroad, a break from the office or a long-term, work-from-home rental in paradise, we have the Tamarindo vacation package or just-right-for-you vacation home to fulfill all your travel needs and dreams.
All while keeping you safe, of course. Here’s what’s been happening in Costa Rica – at our airports, in our local businesses, and even on the government level. Or, just skip ahead to the fun stuff – plan your holiday in Costa Rica, check out our longer-term rentals (work or school abroad, anyone?), or jump right to finding the Tamarindo vacation rentals perfect for you.
https://www.stayintamarindo.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/stay_in_tamarindo_logo.png00Erin Raubhttps://www.stayintamarindo.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/stay_in_tamarindo_logo.pngErin Raub2020-10-29 12:11:412020-12-08 15:18:15Costa Rica Open to the World – and our Tamarindo Vacation Rentals Are Ready for the Holidays!
We’d like to give you a Costa Rica Coronavirus Update, so you will feel safe, booking a trip with us.
In the final months of this challenging year, who doesn’t need a vacation?! There’s nothing better for your physical and mental health than sunshine, clean air, warm salty ocean water, and exercise.
Costa Rica is the ideal destination for your first post-pandemic vacation! We, at Stay in Tamarindo are a local organically-grown vacation company located a stone’s throw from the sand in Tamarindo, Costa Rica and we can’t wait to host you! We’ve been here throughout lock-down and the travel freeze holding down the fort, keeping our Costa Rica vacation rental homes cleaner than ever and in perfect condition. We’ve kept our vans running and our certifications active so that now, as Costa Rica Travel restrictions lift and flights begin to arrive, we’re ready for you and it’s time to make your 2020 Costa Rica travel dreams come true!
Need some post-Covid Relaxation in Costa Rica? We’ve got you covered.
Come to Costa Rican and get to see lots of wildlife like the keel-billed toucan!
Right now, Costa Rica as many other countries is facing a difficult time. The country and our hard working people depend on tourism. You can do your part and help everyone out. If you already have a reservation in Tamarindo, Costa Rica, please postpone your trip, instead of cancelling it. Contact our reservations department at reservations@stayintamarindo.com.
Or even better, if you were thinking about coming to Tamarindo, Costa Rica this year and haven’t booked your trip – book now and spread some positivity! We will be happy to give you a 10% discount for your stay in Tamarindo between June and November 2020. This is only applicable for new reservations made until April 30, 2020, restrictions apply.
Costa Rica will even be more beautiful in the next couple of months, as nature has time to heal and animals will be all over Tamarindo again! Don’t miss out!
Together we can make a change, together we will travel again!
https://www.stayintamarindo.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/stay_in_tamarindo_logo.png00Nadinehttps://www.stayintamarindo.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/stay_in_tamarindo_logo.pngNadine2020-03-23 11:38:122020-03-23 12:10:02Please don't cancel - Postpone your trip to Costa Rica!
Casa de Luz is the best of many bests: one of the largest private home event venues in Guanacaste, the first solar-powered Tamarindo vacation rental, and more.
Welcome to oceanfront Casa de Luz– the House of Light, Playa Langosta’s luxury jewel, and the most eco-friendly Tamarindo vacation rental.
This solar-powered, on-the-sand, luxury home is the superlative of superlatives: The closest high-capacity Tamarindo vacation rental to downtown. The only beach villa where every sleeping and living space faces the Pacific Ocean and the sunset. The first solar-powered home in the province. One of the largest private home event venues on the Gold Coast. And, one of an exclusive few vacation homes to be fully staffed.
Home to almost every luxury and amenity available in Costa Rica – an oceanfront pool, air-conditioning throughout, a Pacific-view swimming pool, high-speed WiFi, private beach access, and much more – Casa de Luz delivers a vacation, wedding, event, or reunion like no other.
This is a private home, but it’s also part beach resort, part event venue (especially for Tamarindo weddings), and part VIP experience. Casa de Luz represents the ultimate in location, accommodations and service.
https://www.stayintamarindo.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/stay_in_tamarindo_logo.png00Erin Raubhttps://www.stayintamarindo.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/stay_in_tamarindo_logo.pngErin Raub2020-02-25 05:30:422020-02-24 17:42:06Property of the Month: Casa de Luz
Planning a Costa Rica surf vacation? This guide will help you narrow down where and when – and where to stay, after you’ve figured out your where and when.
So, you’re planning a Costa Rica surf vacation. You’re excited! You’re hopeful. You’re already shopping for special vacation surfboard wax.
The only problem – you’re not quite sure of where to go. Or when. Or where you’ll stay. Or, well, any of it. Because Costa Rica’s surf is legendary and, whether you’re a beginner who’s only popped up a few times or an advanced surfer looking for your next-greatest challenge, all you’re sure of is that you’ll soon be surfing in Costa Rica.
That’s an exhilarating thing to be sure of. This guide will fill you in on the rest.
Popular Costa Rica Surf Destinations
The good news is that you’ll find both beginner-friendly and good surf almost everywhere Costa Rica. The great news is that you’ll find world-class surf in a few of those areas.
The not-quite-as-good news is that you won’t have time to surf it all. (Well, unless you’re here for a few years.) So, you’ll have to prioritize. At least, for this trip.
Here’s our rule of thumb: Stick to one major surf region per each 7-10 days of your trip, so you have plenty of time to explore, enjoy, and surf every must and many of the if-you-cans. And, be sure to identify all a region’s bucket-list breaks that meet your skill level and preferences.
Talk about privileged Tamarindo real estate! All our Ibis Condos vacation homes are 1-minute walk to the beach, overlook the Tamarindo Preserve, and have full membership to the Langosta Beach Club.
For most homes, an address goes something like “### Mountain View Ln.”
At Ibis Condominiums, it looks more like, “the exclusive gated community at the crossroads of the Tamarindo Preserve and the Langosta Beach Club.”
Granted, that’s partly due to Costa Rica’s famed absence of bonafide street addresses. But, it’s mostly because it’s such an apt description: Ibis Condos rise from some of the most privileged Tamarindo real estate, under 100 meters to the Pacific, overlooking a 650-acre nature conservancy, and across the way from the Langosta Beach Club (to which you’ll have access).
And we have all 10 exclusive condos available as vacation homes for rent.
https://www.stayintamarindo.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/stay_in_tamarindo_logo.png00Erin Raubhttps://www.stayintamarindo.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/stay_in_tamarindo_logo.pngErin Raub2020-02-13 05:30:012020-02-13 09:57:28Spotlight On: Ibis Condos at the Tamarindo Preserve & Langosta Beach Club
There are so many ways you could define the best places to stay in Tamarindo. We’ve based our list on 10 of them. (And yes, this view is one of those reasons!)
We have a philosophy. A motto, if you will. It goes like this: While everyday life may require compromise, vacation should be the one time of year you can have it all. This should be the one time that you don’t have to settle, don’t have to sacrifice this for that – the time to insist on your wish list and revel in everything you want, no compromise required.
Indeed, this is the time to seek out the best places to stay in Tamarindo and to reserve the one that strums at your heart strings. Because this is your time. That’s our philosophy and we’re sticking to it.
And so, with that in mind, we thought we’d highlight a few of our favorite homes and communities in Tamarindo. And by that, we mean Greater Tamarindo – specifically, downtown, Playa Langosta, and Hacienda Pinilla. (We’ll cover Playa Flamingo in a later post, promise!)
https://www.stayintamarindo.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/stay_in_tamarindo_logo.png00Erin Raubhttps://www.stayintamarindo.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/stay_in_tamarindo_logo.pngErin Raub2020-01-30 05:30:042020-01-30 09:12:48The Best Places to Stay in Tamarindo: 10 of Our Favorites
Is Costa Rica a Safe Destination to Visit During COVID?
/0 Comments/in Costa Rica, Tamarindo Travel Guide /by Erin RaubCosta Rica is a paradise of natural wonders – of outdoor activities to enjoy beneath the sun, out in the breeze, and amidst your bubble of nearest and dearest. Or all alone. Whatever and however you please.
We’ve said it before (and we’ll probably say it again): The decision to travel right now is a personal one. No one can make it for you.
What we can do, however, is share some information (and a few personal experiences and anecdotes) on what Costa Rica travel is like right now. Is it safe? What kind of restrictions are in place? What about the airport – what’s flying like, right now? And on and on.
And, if you do decide to travel, we can also help put your mind at ease with a selection of Costa Rica private villas and beach houses where you can keep your distance and have your vacation, too.
But first:
Costa Rica and COVID-19: What to Expect on Your Vacation
The first impression you’ll have is that Costa Rica feels safe.
And, within today’s global framework, Costa Rica is safe: Costa Rica has received the Safe Travels stamp from the World Travel and Tourism Council. This stamp certifies a destination as safe for travel, per 16 health and hygiene protocols.
Read more
It’s [Almost] a New Year – Time to Travel to Costa Rica in 2021
/0 Comments/in Tamarindo Travel Guide, Things to Do /by Erin RaubTravel to Costa Rica affords privacy, luxury, and plenty of outdoor activity – bathed in sunshine and kissed by ocean breeze. Give yourself something to look forward to in 2021!
Have you ever been quite so excited – hopeful, even – about turning the calendar page to a new year? Because, while 2020 has been challenging the world around, vaccine roll-outs are now underway and 2021 shows promise of better times to come. We have our fingers and toes crossed!
Here in Tamarindo, we’re happy to report that life has mostly returned to normal. Or, our new normal, at least: COVID protocols are comfortably in place: We’re masked, transparent barriers are erected at grocery stores, and disinfection is standard everywhere. And, at Stay in Tamarindo, we’ve prepared our vacation home for safe, sanitized travel. (Read more about our COVID-safe protocols.)
Here, you have the freedom to simply be with family and friends. Travel to Costa Rica and you can play on the beach, swim in the ocean, and soak in the sun. You can hike into solitary dry forest, explore backroads via ATV, and snorkel with only the fish as company. You can get outside. You can enjoy your vacation. You can be content – joyful, even!
Because, we’ve all missed those feelings of anticipation, of pure delight, of elation. Now is the time to feel them again, as you begin planning a trip to Costa Rica.
Read more
Costa Rica Corona Virus Travel Insurance: What You Need to Know + 4 Policies that Have You Covered
/0 Comments/in Costa Rica, Tamarindo Travel Guide /by Erin RaubYou’re just one Costa Rica corona virus insurance policy away from paradise. Here, we detail all the requirements – plus four compliant local and international policies, including costs!
Travel in 2020 is unlike travel ever before: In addition to all the normal concerns – Do I have my passport? Did I pack the right type of shoes? What if the airline loses my luggage? – the pandemic has layered on a whole new tier of topics to consider.
Here’s one concern we can help allay: What is this Costa Rica corona virus travel insurance– (officially, COVID-19 or coronavirus, but we’ve adjusted to corona virus, to account for how many of our travelers are searching) – and what available policies will cover the requirements? More specifically, what’s the cheapest [qualifying] Costa Rica travel insurance available?
But first, let’s talk basics:
November 2020: Costa Rica Travel Requirements
How about a private, oven-view pool for the ultimate in luxury (not to mention, perfection in social distancing)?
As of November 2020, our national borders are open and Costa Rica corona virus protocols are evolving. Evolving to be easier-to-understand, that is!
Costa Rica’s simplified travel requirements are the following:
Already know what’s required? Skip straight to the Costa Rica corona virus insurance options!
Read more
Costa Rica Open to the World – and our Tamarindo Vacation Rentals Are Ready for the Holidays!
/0 Comments/in Costa Rica, Tamarindo, Tamarindo Travel Guide /by Erin RaubTalk about social distancing! There’s no better place to spend the holiday season – or to connect to your virtual office, the kids’ online school, or your colleagues – than from one of our exclusive Tamarindo vacation rentals – your own private enclave. (Pictured: Casa Ventana, in Tamarindo)
Oh hello, it’s been awhile, hasn’t it? Because wow, what a year! In some ways, 2020 feels like the punchline to a cringe-worthy riddle – when did a decade fall within the span of just a few months? – but in other ways, it’s just been… unprecedented. That’s a good word for it.
So, we thought we’d brighten your day with a little bit of much-needed precedent: The Costa Rican holiday season is upon us – and our Tamarindo vacation rentals are ready play! More than ready. We are delighted and excited and all the other good things!
Because, whether you’re planning a Christmas in Costa Rica or a New Year’s abroad, a break from the office or a long-term, work-from-home rental in paradise, we have the Tamarindo vacation package or just-right-for-you vacation home to fulfill all your travel needs and dreams.
All while keeping you safe, of course. Here’s what’s been happening in Costa Rica – at our airports, in our local businesses, and even on the government level. Or, just skip ahead to the fun stuff – plan your holiday in Costa Rica, check out our longer-term rentals (work or school abroad, anyone?), or jump right to finding the Tamarindo vacation rentals perfect for you.
→ Search Tamarindo Vacation Rentals ←
Read more
Costa Rica Coronavirus Update
/0 Comments/in Costa Rica, Tamarindo, Tamarindo Travel Guide, Vacation Rentals in Tamarindo /by 1BlizzAdminWe’d like to give you a Costa Rica Coronavirus Update, so you will feel safe, booking a trip with us.
In the final months of this challenging year, who doesn’t need a vacation?! There’s nothing better for your physical and mental health than sunshine, clean air, warm salty ocean water, and exercise.
Costa Rica is the ideal destination for your first post-pandemic vacation! We, at Stay in Tamarindo are a local organically-grown vacation company located a stone’s throw from the sand in Tamarindo, Costa Rica and we can’t wait to host you! We’ve been here throughout lock-down and the travel freeze holding down the fort, keeping our Costa Rica vacation rental homes cleaner than ever and in perfect condition. We’ve kept our vans running and our certifications active so that now, as Costa Rica Travel restrictions lift and flights begin to arrive, we’re ready for you and it’s time to make your 2020 Costa Rica travel dreams come true!
Need some post-Covid Relaxation in Costa Rica? We’ve got you covered.
Read more
Please don’t cancel – Postpone your trip to Costa Rica!
/0 Comments/in Costa Rica, Vacation Rentals in Tamarindo /by NadineCome to Costa Rican and get to see lots of wildlife like the keel-billed toucan!
Right now, Costa Rica as many other countries is facing a difficult time. The country and our hard working people depend on tourism. You can do your part and help everyone out. If you already have a reservation in Tamarindo, Costa Rica, please postpone your trip, instead of cancelling it. Contact our reservations department at reservations@stayintamarindo.com.
Or even better, if you were thinking about coming to Tamarindo, Costa Rica this year and haven’t booked your trip – book now and spread some positivity! We will be happy to give you a 10% discount for your stay in Tamarindo between June and November 2020. This is only applicable for new reservations made until April 30, 2020, restrictions apply.
Costa Rica will even be more beautiful in the next couple of months, as nature has time to heal and animals will be all over Tamarindo again! Don’t miss out!
Together we can make a change, together we will travel again!
Property of the Month: Casa de Luz
/0 Comments/in Tamarindo Retreats, Tamarindo Wedding Guide, Vacation Rentals in Tamarindo /by Erin RaubCasa de Luz is the best of many bests: one of the largest private home event venues in Guanacaste, the first solar-powered Tamarindo vacation rental, and more.
Welcome to oceanfront Casa de Luz– the House of Light, Playa Langosta’s luxury jewel, and the most eco-friendly Tamarindo vacation rental.
This solar-powered, on-the-sand, luxury home is the superlative of superlatives: The closest high-capacity Tamarindo vacation rental to downtown. The only beach villa where every sleeping and living space faces the Pacific Ocean and the sunset. The first solar-powered home in the province. One of the largest private home event venues on the Gold Coast. And, one of an exclusive few vacation homes to be fully staffed.
Home to almost every luxury and amenity available in Costa Rica – an oceanfront pool, air-conditioning throughout, a Pacific-view swimming pool, high-speed WiFi, private beach access, and much more – Casa de Luz delivers a vacation, wedding, event, or reunion like no other.
This is a private home, but it’s also part beach resort, part event venue (especially for Tamarindo weddings), and part VIP experience. Casa de Luz represents the ultimate in location, accommodations and service.
Read more
Planning a Costa Rica Surf Vacation? Start Here.
/0 Comments/in Costa Rica, Tamarindo Travel Guide, Things to Do /by Erin RaubPlanning a Costa Rica surf vacation? This guide will help you narrow down where and when – and where to stay, after you’ve figured out your where and when.
So, you’re planning a Costa Rica surf vacation. You’re excited! You’re hopeful. You’re already shopping for special vacation surfboard wax.
The only problem – you’re not quite sure of where to go. Or when. Or where you’ll stay. Or, well, any of it. Because Costa Rica’s surf is legendary and, whether you’re a beginner who’s only popped up a few times or an advanced surfer looking for your next-greatest challenge, all you’re sure of is that you’ll soon be surfing in Costa Rica.
That’s an exhilarating thing to be sure of. This guide will fill you in on the rest.
Popular Costa Rica Surf Destinations
The good news is that you’ll find both beginner-friendly and good surf almost everywhere Costa Rica. The great news is that you’ll find world-class surf in a few of those areas.
The not-quite-as-good news is that you won’t have time to surf it all. (Well, unless you’re here for a few years.) So, you’ll have to prioritize. At least, for this trip.
Here’s our rule of thumb: Stick to one major surf region per each 7-10 days of your trip, so you have plenty of time to explore, enjoy, and surf every must and many of the if-you-cans. And, be sure to identify all a region’s bucket-list breaks that meet your skill level and preferences.
So, about that where:
Read more
Spotlight On: Ibis Condos at the Tamarindo Preserve & Langosta Beach Club
/0 Comments/in Vacation Rentals in Tamarindo /by Erin RaubTalk about privileged Tamarindo real estate! All our Ibis Condos vacation homes are 1-minute walk to the beach, overlook the Tamarindo Preserve, and have full membership to the Langosta Beach Club.
For most homes, an address goes something like “### Mountain View Ln.”
At Ibis Condominiums, it looks more like, “the exclusive gated community at the crossroads of the Tamarindo Preserve and the Langosta Beach Club.”
Granted, that’s partly due to Costa Rica’s famed absence of bonafide street addresses. But, it’s mostly because it’s such an apt description: Ibis Condos rise from some of the most privileged Tamarindo real estate, under 100 meters to the Pacific, overlooking a 650-acre nature conservancy, and across the way from the Langosta Beach Club (to which you’ll have access).
And we have all 10 exclusive condos available as vacation homes for rent.
Read more
The Best Places to Stay in Tamarindo: 10 of Our Favorites
/0 Comments/in Vacation Rentals in Tamarindo /by Erin RaubThere are so many ways you could define the best places to stay in Tamarindo. We’ve based our list on 10 of them. (And yes, this view is one of those reasons!)
We have a philosophy. A motto, if you will. It goes like this: While everyday life may require compromise, vacation should be the one time of year you can have it all. This should be the one time that you don’t have to settle, don’t have to sacrifice this for that – the time to insist on your wish list and revel in everything you want, no compromise required.
Indeed, this is the time to seek out the best places to stay in Tamarindo and to reserve the one that strums at your heart strings. Because this is your time. That’s our philosophy and we’re sticking to it.
And so, with that in mind, we thought we’d highlight a few of our favorite homes and communities in Tamarindo. And by that, we mean Greater Tamarindo – specifically, downtown, Playa Langosta, and Hacienda Pinilla. (We’ll cover Playa Flamingo in a later post, promise!)
In no particular order:
Read more