www.CostaRicaTicas.com

you could always try copa airline from chicago..I just did direct from chicago to panama for a few days then panama to san jose for a few more days..then flight back san jose to panama back to chicago..cost of $600..

Copa or Taca, same, great flight, 2 bags free, drinks free, good food, free movie. Problem from Chicago is no non-stops on Copa/Taca, either El Sal or Nica easy layover, but still, why can't there be at least one airline from Chicago w/ a non-stop from Chicago anymore. Turns what used to be a 5.5 hour flight (8-10 years ago is about the last time I remember one) into 8.5 hour ordeal with doble security checks and all of that, same on the way back. Still, I fly Copa/Taca because of the 2 bags free and usually they are the best price or close with the adds on making the diff for me, except for the flight that leaves O'Hare at 0300--that's rough if you can't sleep on planes.

Flew Copa from ORD to SJO thru PTY for first time this month and found it to be a great alternative for us Chicago guys.

$570 RT. Found fare on kayak with return flight on UA from SJO thru IAH and into ORD.

Served meals on both Copa flights, free booze on flight if so desired. Plus, young attractive flight attendants to help pass the time! Also, cool to see Panama City, even though it was from the air.

This week on kayak, I saw RT on Copa to SJO for SuperBowl weekend at $477. Only lasted 1 day, but I have not seen a $477 RT airfare to SJO from ORD in over 2 years (Spirit does not count as by the time you add upcharges to base fare, they are expensive as everyone else .... plus it's Spirit)

Will definately fly Copa again.