Destination Guide

Costa Rica

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Photo by Naomi Hutchinson

The spirit of Costa Rica is best captured by its mantra “Pura Vida.” Directly translated, it means “pure life,” but in daily use it’s normally an expression of satisfaction or thanks, and is often heard as a greeting and farewell. It is said with a smile and upon hearing it you know you are in a place where the simple pleasures in life are not taken for granted. Whether you are looking for surfing, adventure, relaxation, giving back or family time, Costa Rica has it all.

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Aerial View of beach at Four Seasons Costa Rica

Four Seasons Costa Rica

An equally wonderful place for couples or families, Four Seasons Costa Rica is perfect for travelers looking for a mixture of adventure and relaxation with five-star service, excellent food and luxurious surroundings.

Lounge at Andaz Costa Rica, Costa Rica

Andaz Costa Rica

The Andaz Costa Rica, the second luxury hotel for the brand, is situated on the beautiful Peninsula Papagayo with breathtaking views from the entire property. Tucked away in a lush rainforest, the Andaz is a modern oasis, and the open-air design and neutral color scheme blend right into the tropical surroundings.

The resort has 153 sleek guest rooms and 21 suites, including four with plunge pools, and a two-bedroom presidential suite with a full pool. Each of the accommodations offers partial or full views of the bay through floor-to-ceiling windows. The décor is sleek and modern, while still being authentically Costa Rican with natural wood furnishings and rattan fabrics. The rooms also offer a complimentary minibar and WiFi, along with such beach essentials as flip-flops and straw beach hats for use during one's stay.

The hotel boasts two infinity-edge pools with views of the sea, one geared towards families and the other adults-only. The beach has complimentary activities, including kayaking, snorkeling and paddle boarding in the crystalline waters of Culebra Bay. There is also a Kids’ Club for children ages 4-12 that offers games, activities and art projects. The spa and wellness center is located in the leafy forest, providing treatments in a spectacular setting. There are two restaurants on property serving Latin American-inspired cuisine and a tapas and cocktail bar on the terrace with lovely views.

Villa at Nayara Springs, Costa Rica

Nayara Springs

Set deep in the jungle canopy, the peaceful Nayara Springs hotel sits in the shadow of the Arenal Volcano, which soars 5,000 feet high and dominates the skyline. While it was once the most active volcano in Costa Rica, the now relatively quiet landmark is one of the main reasons to visit the area and provides a constant reminder of the contrasting beauty and power of nature.

Next door to its sister properties Nayara Tented Camp and Nayara Spa & Gardens, Nayara Springs is geared towards couples and families with older children (kids under 18 are not allowed), and the serene atmosphere is immediately felt. The hotel boasts 16 villas, each with a private garden, an outdoor shower and a terrace with a Jacuzzi (fed by natural hot springs). Each room also features air conditioning, a TV and there is WiFi throughout the entire property.

Because of Nayara’s jungle setting, birds can be heard from almost anywhere on the property, providing a welcome soundtrack to your stay. Most of the activities engage the environment including the volcano tour or horseback ride to La Fortuna waterfall; the spa features dozens of delightful treatments that incorporate local traditions and ingredients, like the volcanic mud massage. Aside from the spa, wellness-seekers can enjoy daily yoga lessons, the resort’s small but well-equipped gym or afternoons spent leisurely by the pool.

While the resort emanates a soothing vibe, the décor provides a punch of color and personality. The villas feature an eclectic mish-mash of décor, with zebra-print footstools, crystal chandeliers and vibrant woven hammocks adding flair to the charming resort. While the Springs has two restaurants, Amor Loco and Mis Amores, guests can dine at any of the three restaurants at the Spa & Gardens, which includes La Terraza Del Arenal, Asia-Luna and Nostalgia Wine & Tapas. Reservations for all dining at Nayara is definitely recommended!


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