Mountains, Jungles, & Beaches of Costa Rica

I recently spent a whirlwind six days touring Costa Rica. From the east coast of the U.S., it was a relatively easy flight allowing me to arrive in time for lunch. I was pleasantly surprised by the Marriott Hacienda Belen less than ten minutes from the airport. This is not your typical "airport hotel!" Designed in a hacienda style with spacious rooms, two beautiful pools, a hot tub set in their park like grounds, a full service spa and fitness center and multiple restaurants, I easily filled my afternoon at the hotel alone!

The next morning it was off to Monteverde, literally Green Mountain. As we made our way through the windy roads, the clouds covered some of our views (we saw them later in the trip and we were indeed in the green mountains!) Hotel Senda Monteverde was a special place. This boutique hotel property offers  private bungalows with peaceful balconies overlooking the jungle. Sit still for a while and you will be treated to birds, agoutis, and coatis visiting. The recently opened two tier pool is beautiful! There are two hot tubs and a small sauna tucked in the garden as well. For those looking for yoga classes, the hotel has a nice space that can be reserved privately, or join their periodic classes. We spent an hour walking the trails with a guide after sunset looking for nocturnal animals! Our most exciting find was a tarantula in her burrow. The next day, we hiked the biological reserve and then visited a coffee and chocolate farm. Yes, I came home with coffee and chocolate!

Our next stop was the Santa Lucia Jungle Hacienda. This newly opened gem is set in the jungle but only about ten minutes to the beach and an hour to the San Jose airport. The stand out accommodations here are their River View Suites. STUNNING! This family friendly resort is perfect for multi-generational groups because there is something for everyone. A relaxing spa, an evening cocktail making class, morning nature walks, a kids club and pool, two restaurants, even a little church on site for weddings! Plus, the pool is large and perfect for bird, butterfly, and iguana watching.

Next we headed south about two hours to the Manuel Antonio area. This is one of the largest and most diverse national parks. Again, a fantastic place for a couples getaway or a family vacation. Our two nights at Arenas del Mar left us wanting more! Perched up on the hillside overlooking the Pacific ocean and the beach, you'll want to spend the entire day floating in the infinity pool or lounging on your balcony. You even have access to a private beach where they host BBQ dinners and craft classes a few times per week. Of course, if you want some zen, there is a yoga class a few times per week as well. Wildlife was all around us too - we saw lots of iguanas and even some monkeys. From this resort, you can explore Manuel Antonio park, take a boat ride, go zip lining, and much more!

And just like that, it was back to San Jose to head home! Costa Rica offers so much for all interests. We didn't even make it to the Arenal area with the volcano and its hot springs or the Caribbean side of the country with its unique waterways. And, of course, there are the beaches and rainforests to the north in Guanacaste. Already planning another visit soon!