Britney Spears is currently on vacation in Costa Rica with Mel Gibson, according to reports.

Earlier this year, the 52-year old Hollywood veteran was spotted dining with Spears on a number of occasions after her very public meltdown at the start of the year.

It is believed Mel has been giving the pop wreck a helping hand in how to deal with the pressures of showbiz, and their latest holiday is no exception.

A source tells People: "They're just going away for a few days to relax." Britney’s father Jamie and Mel’s wife Robyn are also with them.

The Gibsons and Spears, who are former California neighbours, have reportedly become close since the pop star's hospitalisation in February.

"Mel and his wife Robyn clearly saw a woman in crisis and wanted to extend themselves in any way possible,” reveals a source. "

There are no expectations, there is no agenda. It's simply an act of human kindness - one neighbour reaching out to the other."

It's not the first time Gibson has come to the aid of a young star - earlier this year, the movie star dined with Lindsay Lohan and reportedly offered her advice about dealing with the media.