(Archive) Beach is bliss - Jungle is massive: Costa Rica

It’s not on every trip that you get to experience multiple, contrasting parts of a country, but it’s because of the duality of Costa Rica that I fell head over heels in love with it.

If there’s one ‘big trip’ that you book this year, make it the beaches and rainforests of this Central America highlight.

Before heading to those extremities of your experiences, a stay in San Jose is an absolute must. We arrived on a late flight from the UK, but within half an hour were welcomed warmly into the downtown haven of Hotel Presidente. Situated in the heart of the happenings in a part of town that exudes that working-class je ne sais quoi that we appreciate from any downtown area, the Hotel Presidente gives you the perfect base to experience real life in a Costa Rican city.

Take a day here to explore the museums, parks, and exhibition centres all nearby and fall in love with the realness of the place as you go. Fruit markets bulging out from shop fronts, a steady stream of street food production from elevated graffiti covered shutters, and coffee shops colourfully adorned with deeply textured street art.

The hotel itself is housed within a former textiles company and thanks to a very clever refurbishment programme, it offers a time-travel ticket to the past with its vintage furniture and textiles-connected tchotchkes all around.

The hotel is also blessed with a quiet and peaceful rooftop area, accessible 24 hours a day. So, if you’re not eating dinner up there or enjoying cocktails, take a cup of Costa Rican coffee up for sunrise, and never experience daybreak the same again.

As rush hour silently breezes past your high-flying view of the streets, pack up your stuff and get ready for the adventure of a lifetime taking in the beaches and rainforests of a country where the words ‘simple life’ is not only a greeting, but a blessing, and a statement of intent.

Let’s go. Pura Vida.

TO THE BEACH, BABY

In the heart of the enchanting Nicoya Peninsula, a sanctuary was created that invites you to rediscover the deep bond between your soul and the natural world. Nantipa, A Tico Beach Experience, where every wave of the ocean offers a new possibility, and every inch of shore offers time to breath.

If you like the light tones of the coast, puppies breath, and space for days- this is the place for you.

This eco-friendly resort embodies the very essence of reconnection with nature and oneself, resonating with the needs of those seeking healing, solace, and adventure.

As soon as I arrived, I was struck by the breath-taking beauty of Nantipa's surroundings.

The resort truly embraces the idea of sustainability, from the thoughtful design of the structures that blend in harmoniously with the natural landscape to the initiatives aimed at environmental conservation. But beyond that, it was their commitment to community support and beach preservation that was truly heart-warming. Every activity offered at Nantipa is designed to minimize the impact on the environment, from surfing and yoga sessions to horseback riding along the beach.

As I entered the Numu Wellness Center, a sense of tranquillity enveloped me. The aroma of essential oils and the sound of nature's symphony resonated in the air. The highly skilled practitioners used locally sourced and eco-conscious products to provide transformative treatments. I felt my body and spirit reawakening and strengthening as I felt the healing powers of the therapists.

Nantipa Resort also offers a range of exhilarating activities. Surging waves invitingly call out to those who want to gain balance and serenity through surfing. Adventure seekers can explore the stunning landscapes on horseback and embrace the harmony of nature, Earth, and sky. Yoga sessions strummed at the pulse of my soul, and I submitted to how being truly present in mind, body, and spirit can heal from within.

But the most poignant experience for me was witnessing the miracle of baby turtles being released into the ocean. It was a once-in-a-lifetime moment reminding me of the profound interconnectedness between all living beings and the precious responsibility humanity bears to the planet.

In my journey to Nantipa Resort, I not only experienced personal healing and transformation by getting over a fear of surfing (!), but I felt a deeper appreciation for our planet's beauty and the importance of preserving its natural wonders. If you're looking for an eco-friendly and sustainable retreat, Nantipa Resort nurtures the soul and allows you to rediscover the harmony between nature and yourself.

OVER TO THE RAINFOREST

Hidden just a morning drive away from Nantipa, stitched within the emerald fabric of Costa Rica's lush rainforest, Tabacon Resort is the answer to a question of solace and renewal. If you like dark tones, moody mist, and views for days, this is your bag.

Situated within view of Arenal Volcano, Tabacon reveals its magic through the healing power of its hot springs, where warm waters cascade over volcanic rocks and carry transformative rejuvenation. It was easy to acclimatise to the mineral-rich pools, with each immersion being a significant moment with the elements. And it was hard not to fall for the soul-stirring tingle awakened by the connection between my own spirit and the ancient spirit of the rainforest.

Surrounded by the symphony of chirping birds and the eye-catching blossoming flora, I surrendered to the timeless rhythms of Tabacon, allowing its power to wash away the stresses of everyday life.

Tabacon is now famous for these hot springs, thoughtfully designed and integrated into the natural surroundings, creating a place to relax and rejuvenate. Apart from the afternoon we spent propping up the swim up bar enjoying cocktails, though relaxing, that afternoon as certainly not rejuvenating!

Whilst at Tabacon, I took on a variety of activities that added to the magic of my stay. One of the highlights was a candlelit yoga session, which allowed me to connect with my inner self in a tranquil rainforest setting. It was a new moon that evening and I was due my period, so you can imagine how connected I felt to nature.

In addition to the calming candlelit yoga and the hot springs, I also had the opportunity to go waterfall rappelling, generating a hell of a lot of nervous energy within the midst of the tranquil rainforest. I’m actually a big fan of heights, so I embraced the rappelling with vigour, however, the ‘drop’ had me! You do a slight zip wire until the literally drop you into a pool. My heart.

Whatever you choose to add to your adventure at Tabacon, in my opinion nothing can compete with the resort itself. I was fortunate enough to have an entire honeymoon suite to myself with an outdoor bath and view of the volcano over the rainforest. Try and beat the sounds of howling monkeys in the distance, toucans performing at dusk outside of the restaurant, and dragon-like lizards lazing by the pool.

PURA VIDA, COSTA RICA

As I reflect on my journey through Costa Rica, I am filled with a deep sense of gratitude for everything I learned whilst I was there.

I threw myself into the history before going, listened to podcasts along the way, and learned all I could during my day in San Jose.

Its history is more complicated than the modern Costa Ricans would like to admit, glazing over the colonisation of its native people with the classic ‘we didn’t fight, we made love’ line.

Costa Rica is home to eight indigenous peoples. The Cabecar, Ngabe, Broran, Bribri, Brunka, Maleku, Chorotega, and Huetar. And whilst honoured as native cultures, there still persists issues with indigenous territorial rights, poverty, and the general rights of the people.

Whenever we travel, we must begin to really understand the native and indigenous history, and only then will we be able to really see the places we stay for what they are. I was comforted that both resorts in this article do honour native traditions and language, especially Nantipa which offers a taste of the culture for every sense.

The duality of this beautiful country, with its contrasting landscapes of the enchanting beaches and the lush rainforests, has gifted me with moments of pure connection and healing.

The beaches, with their light tones and endless stretches of sand, invite you to breathe in the salty air and let the gentle lapping of the waves carry away your worries. Or your fears… as it did with me. I finally learned to surf in Costa Rica, well, I stood up on the board after plenty of tears and anxiety.

But it was in the rainforest, with its dark tones and mystical mist, that I felt the true power of nature reverberate through my soul. The ancient spirit of the rainforest enveloped me. Here, I felt a deep reconnection to the harmony of nature, a reminder of the interplay between the Earth, the sky, and my own spirit. And coffee. Very, very strong coffee.

Costa Rica really does have something for everyone’s tastes, so be greedy, take in the whole lot!

Pura Vida.

DESTINATION FACTS

Nantipa - A Tico Beach Experience 

Location: Santa Teresa, Nicoya Peninsula, Costa Rica

Features:

• Luxury beachfront boutique hotel

• Suites and bungalows with ocean views

• Open-air beachfront restaurant (Manzú)

• Numu Wellness Center offering eco-friendly treatments

• Specialises in bespoke weddings and events

Activities:

• Surfing, yoga, horseback riding, and ATV tours

• Nature and wildlife excursions

• Beachfront dining and sunset views

Sustainability: Focused on reforestation, community support, and beach preservation.

Website: Nantipa Hotel

Tabacón Thermal Resort & Spa 

Location: La Fortuna, Costa Rica

Features:

• Luxurious rooms and suites

• Natural hot springs

• Award-winning spa services

• Gourmet dining options

• Exclusive Shangri-La Gardens for adults

Activities:

• Adventure tours (horseback riding, waterfall hikes, canopy adventures, white water rafting)

• Yoga and wellness programs

• Cooking classes

• Tree planting programs

Sustainability: Committed to environmental protection and sustainable practices.

Website: Tabacón Thermal Resort & Spa