Known for its lush rainforests, wildlife, volcanoes and beaches, Costa Rica has become one of the best destinations for family travel tours and multigenerational adventures.
Last year, Debbie Bowman and her daughter Amanda were scouring the internet for inspiration on where to embark on their first mother-daughter vacation together.
Flustered by the amount of destination options and packages available, it was difficult to land on a decision.
It wasn’t until Bowman – who is also a travel advisor – attended a G Adventures agents event, that their dream came to fruition. To her surprise, she was revealed as the lucky recipient of the grand prize at the event: A 9-day trip to Costa Rica for two.
“When I won the trip, it seemed like fate had opened a door for us, as Costa Rica was actually high on Amanda’s list of places she wanted to visit with me,” said Bowman.
In November 2025, Bowman and her daughter embarked on their Journeys: Highlights of Costa Rica tour.
Together, they hiked through Manuel Antonio National Park, explored the slopes of Arenal Volcano by horseback, enjoyed serene beach landscapes and even ziplined through the cloud forest.
“She was in front of me and did not even hesitate when it came time to step off the platform for the tarzan swing,” recalls Bowman.
“Seeing her so brave really gave me a shot of bravery too, and it was a blast and so fun to do it together.”
By experiencing so many inspiring and unique travel moments by each other’s side, Bowman says she and her daughter made memories they will never forget.
Looking back, Bowman says it was special to not only connect with her daughter but to also make strong connections with others on their tour.
“You never know how a tour group will gel, but it seems that the small size of the G Adventures tours really helps you to connect meaningfully to the others,” she said, adding their Chief Experience Officer (CEO) – who was evidently passionate about Costa Rica – also made the experience.
Their first mother-daughter trip was everything they hoped it would be, says Bowman, adding she would encourage other families to take the same leap she and Amanda did.
“There is just something so special about travelling together with your grown children. It seems to me that a lot of the things that are stressors or annoyances are suspended whilst travelling, allowing people to simply enjoy the adventure together,” said Bowman.
While many families tend to travel together as a unit, she says it’s worth pursuing one-on-one adventures to strengthen bonds and learn more about their family members in a different setting.
“It’s so fun to see your children interact with others. Amanda is a grown adult now, but it still made me so proud to hear her interact with the others in the group in such a positive and interesting way,” said Bowman.
“When your grown children actually want to hang out with you, well, I think that’s just the best thing one could hope for. I feel so grateful to have been able to experience this adventure with my daughter.”
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The ultimate guide to Costa Rica for families
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