In Costa Rica I would recommend taking a tour. I went with Overseas Adventure tour and saw many parts of central and western Costa Rica. While we were there,I saw other guides showing other people the same thing as our guide.All licensed quides go to school for advanced training and must pass a national test before serving as a guide. So, I am saying research Costa Rica tours and I'm sure one will meet your needs. I am not a birder but while there I learned to appreciate all the different birds there and have started looking for them in my other travels. You will see animals in the wild and maybe some volcano actiivty. The food is good and the people friendly and helpful.

In Puerto Vallarta, I made my own arrangements and stayed at a wonderful small Mexican hotel right on the beach and then made tour arrangements after I got there. This was not an inclusive since I wanted to eat at different places and they were everywhere. Puerto Vallarta is an easy TOWN to walk in and enjoy.

Mayan Riviera, for this area and Cancun I have used Funjet. I have done both single and inclusive. Apple vacations also goes in this area.You can use them or look for what they offer and then see if you can duplicate it yourself. If there is anything else just ask.

Wilma from sunny Kansas City.