Anyone ever purchased a living social trip? (What was your experience?) (cost, hotel)

[Bmateo]

I saw a couple really good deals for Living Social, but they are in Costa Rica, a place I REALLY want to go. I have a friend who is interested and everything looks great. But I've heard horror stories of purchasing "trip deals" with other sites, and don't want to set us up for dissappointment, a lot of hidden costs, or other problems.

I'd love to hear from others who have purchased trips from Living Social (or Groupon), especially outside the country. The deal is great, if it is what it seems.

[Wolf Howl]

It's not purchasing through Living Social that would concern me, it would be the actual place you'd be staying. I've seen some good deals on there before only to review the place on TripAdvisor to see that there is a reason the property is promoting itself on Living Social to begin with. Highly recommend reading the reviews on TripAdvisor first before purchasing, or booking, any hotel.