Two-toed sloths, toucans, and hot springs. Take a wild (no pun intended) guess as to which
Central American country J5Travel team member, Shanna, recently visited for the first time.
We trust our readers nailed this right on the head by guessing Costa Rica!
Costa Rican's national slogan is "Pura Vida" and although everyone there uses this saying, until you’ve been to Costa Rica, you will not truly know what pura vida feels like.
It’s an emotion, it’s an attitude, it’s happiness, and it’s a way of life.As one of the most biodiverse places on the planet, Costa Rica is home to around half a million species. Shanna was lucky enough to come face to face with many of these species thanks to our favorite Costa Rican supplier. Let’s break down her Costa Rican Top 5.
Top 5 - Pura Vida
1. The Springs Resort and Spa at Arenal (above and below)
With impressive views of the Arenal Volcano, natural hot springs, and the on-site Club Rio
Adventure Center, the 165-acre property at The Springs Resort is sure to keep guests of all
ages busy. Without leaving the property, guests can experience river tubing, kayaking,
horseback riding, rock climbing, an animal sanctuary, and more. As a Virtuoso preferred hotel,
our clients will receive daily complimentary breakfast, a spa credit, and a complimentary Club
Rio Tour.
2. The Peace Lodge (above and below)
At 5,200 feet above sea level in the cloud forest (different from rainforest), you’ll find the 5-star
boutique hotel called Peace Lodge. Located on the grounds of the famous La Paz Waterfall
Gardens Nature Park, this property quickly became Shanna’s favorite. Lodge guests receive
unlimited access to the hiking trails, waterfalls, trout lake, and animal sanctuary exhibits. The
spacious 18 rooms feature rock fireplaces, private balconies with jacuzzis, and garden
bathrooms.
Insider Tip: Toucan, sloth, and hummingbird feedings occur daily.
3. Tabacon Thermal Resort & Spa (above and below)
Just down the road from The Springs Resort in the Arenal area, is another Virtuoso property
called Tabacon. Surrounded by rainforest, the rooms are modern and minimalistic. The
showstopper here is the thermal experience offered onsite. Guests can relax in Costa Rica’s
largest network of naturally flowing thermal mineral springs heated by the volcano. Additionally, Tabacon was recently nominated in the Best Spa Destination category in Travel + Leisure World’s Best Awards for 2023.
4. Andaz Costa Rica Resort At Peninsula Papagayo (above and below)
After exploring rainforests and volcanoes, Shanna made her way west to the Guanacaste
Province where she checked in at Andaz Costa Rica Resort At Peninsula Papagayo. Located
within a pristine 1,400-acre private peninsula, Andaz offers a private beach club called Andaz
Beach House, a spa and wellness sanctuary, endless howler monkey sightings, and access to
world-class golfing at Ocean Course at Peninsula Papagayo. As loyal members of the Hyatt
Prive program, our clients will receive complimentary amenities and red carpet service.
5. Travel Insurance (above)
No, this is not a typo. Travel insurance is in fact absolutely one of Shanna’s Top 5 and for good reason. During her trip, she slipped and broke her arm. With private transportation already set up through our Costa Rican supplier and the fact she purchased travel insurance, that day went a whole lot smoother than could have been usually expected when you need a hospital in a foreign country. J5Travel have always been advocates for purchasing travel insurance, but after personally experiencing this unfortunate situation, Shanna is now a walking billboard for it. With the claim now processed, her full transportation and medical expenses were covered.
Pura Vida, because life is short and unfortunate things can happen when traveling!
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I love travel and I love travel planning just as much and I am proud to be building a team as passionate about exploring the world as myself. It took me a very long time to align my career with my undeniable passion for exploring, but now I and the team are here for you. Your personal travel tailors - award reservation and luxury custom itinerary experts. We provide a bespoke service, imagining and creating itineraries for independent minded families and groups.
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