Just Back From: Costa Rica

Are you ready to experience the “Pura Vida” way of life in Costa Rica? Our TWIL Advisor, Ruby Silvertown, had an amazing time in Costa Rica and had the chance to experience two very different properties, both of which she enjoyed. The trip was filled with a mix of adventure and relaxation. Costa Rica is the perfect destination to recharge, reconnect and live the simple life.

Photo: EQRoy/ Shutterstock

Photo: EQRoy/ Shutterstock

Four Season Papagayo Costa Rica

Location

A 40-minute drive (NW) from Liberia Airport. The airport is super easy to navigate, and there are daily flights from Toronto and many other major US cities. The Four Seasons is directly on the tip of the Papagayo Peninsula, there are beaches and views all round.  

Facts and First Impressions

  • A multi-million-dollar renovation has just taken place including a brand-new spa

  • The area is immaculately manicured with stunning gardens and vegetation with marked bike lanes

  • Staff are outstanding, extremely helpful and charming. Entire property has been well planned and has exquisite views in every direction

Photo: Four Seasons, Papagayo

Photo: Four Seasons, Papagayo

Activities

Many services and activities on the Peninsula are communal and shared with the other properties on the development. The area features and 18-hole Jack Nicklaus Golf Course, along with a variety of activities and sports for everyone, including mountain biking, water bikes, hiking yoga, deep sea fishing, snorkeling and so much more!

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Accommodation

There are several types of suites from one bedroom to three bedrooms, along with residences that go up to 4 bedrooms and can be adjoined for more. The residences are a bit farther from the main action but walk-able or one can call a golf cart. A typical residence will always have rooms with kings and 2 queens as well as living rooms, dining rooms, multiple bathrooms, kitchens and laundry. These are a great option for larger or multi-generational families, especially those with younger kids, where having a kitchen and laundry facilities are key!  All the rooms are spectacular and have a water view.

Food and Drink

All the food was spectacular. It was fresh and delicious, creative and very healthy. For a quick fun lunch, among other spots, there is a great “food truck” on the beach with a menu changing daily.

There are alcoholic drink specials daily with a unique rum and chocolate tasting activity for those who think they might like that. There are 2 main go to restaurants in the main part of the hotel, and another one at the Golf Club a short local transfer ride away.

Overall, the Four Seasons Peninsula Papagayo is a fabulous property that will appeal to both couples and families.



Los Catalinas by Casa Chameleon

Location

An 80-minute drive (SW) from Liberia Airport. Roads are okay, there are 2 roads and I suggest you take the paved one and avoid the ‘short cut’. Las Catalinas is a newly developed, fully walkable beach town that is car- free. It has the look of a Mediterranean Seaside resort.

Photo: Hidden Coast Realty

Photo: Hidden Coast Realty

Activities

You can spend your days hanging out by the infinity pool, or exploring the 22 trails they have to offer by hiking or mountain biking. Some of the best scuba diving and snorkeling is found just offshore. They offer sunrise and sunset yoga on the shores of Playa Danta. 

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Facts and First Impressions

Beautiful property however, might not be suitable for those with mobility issues, as it has challenging hills and stairs.

Staff are outstanding, extremely helpful and charming.

The sunset was so spectacular that it is reminiscent of Positano – maybe better.

Accommodations

The property cascades down a hillside with individual casitas, which are small but private and well planned. They all have exquisite unobstructed views of the Pacific sunset with private pools, king beds, private yoga mats and weights to work out on your private terrace. The furniture is cute, boho trendy and comfy. There are no TVs anywhere, but not to fret - there is WiFi.

Food and drink

There is one restaurant on property with beautiful views. The food was great and the service was excellent. Other food can be found down the hill in town, but it is limited.

Please Note

Most of the hotels that we visited in Costa Rica are ultra eco-conscious and (Except for the Four Seasons), prefer that guests  use their shampoo and soap, as they do not contain chemical substances. They also don’t want anyone putting anything, including toilet paper down the toilet in order to save their sewage systems.

Costa Rica is the perfect destination for everyone, they offer a mix of tropical beaches, adventurous activities and awe inspiring nature that is sure to leave you refreshed and energized! We loved our time exploring the different regions and experiencing the “Pura Vida” way of life, it definitely made our trip a unique one to be remembered!

To learn more about how we can create the perfect vacation offering VIP treatment at the worlds finest properties and provide you with preferred partner amenities, please contact a TWIL Travel Advisor for all the details.