Pura Vida: Vacationing in Costa Rica, Pt. 2 | Heather Bowman, Sojourney Travel

We’re picking up this week with some more outstanding resort recommendations from Sojourney Travel Advisor,  Heather Bowman. As a continuation of last week’s blog, Heather continues to describe the wonderful properties she visited, along with an overview of an eco adventure park and the people of Costa Rica. 

Westin Reserva Conchal 

 Many people do not realize this is an all-inclusive property, but it is. And it is great for large families or multi-generational families. The accommodations here are humongous. One suite has two living rooms. TWO. The kids can watch tv in one room and the adults can wind down and watch tv in another. The Westin Reserva Conchal boasts one of the largest pools in all of Costa Rica and is an overall amazing property. It Is not going to be overcrowded at all. This is a property for luxury travelers. Also, this is where I saw the most wildlife. I saw howler monkeys hanging from trees and coatis foraging for food. The property is very large so you do get around by golf cart most of the time. This place has its own shopping district if that tells you anything. The food here is upscale and impeccable. I ate at their buffet, but this was no ordinary buffet. They had a ceviche bar and a grilling station for steak alongside some cultural favorites. They have kids and teens clubs as well. Honestly, I loved everything about this property. It is in the running for my favorite.  

Tamarindo Diria Costa 

I did not expect to like this one as much as I did. While all of the other resorts are secluded in the Costa Rican mountainside, this one is in the heart of the city while still being ocean front. If you want to be immersed in authentic Costa Rican culture, this is the place for you. The property is beautiful and it is in the heart of the city. There are nearby clubs and restaurants that you don’t want to miss. That being said, the rooms are smaller, so this may not be a great place for families. Also, there are not as many dining options on site, but you are in the middle of the city with authentic Costa Rican restaurants all around you. If you want complete cultural immersion, this is the place.  

Buena Vista Del Rincon Eco Adventure Park  I can’t close this post out without talking about the amazing adventure park I went to. You could spend multiple days here and not get to everything they have to offer. If you have never ziplined, this would be the time to start. You can zipline through the rainforest and see the most amazing views. If you decide that you don’t want to do it any longer, there is a stopping point along the route. You can take a stroll through the trees on the hanging bridges, or hike to an amazing waterfall. This park also has the longest water slide in all of Costa Rica! I had the opportunity to go horseback riding up the side of the mountain and take in some pretty incredible views. The two things that you don’t want to miss are the volcanic mud baths and the cultural exhibits. Volcanic mud has great health benefits and followed by a dip in the hot springs is a relaxing way to end your day of adventure. But you’ll definitely want to find time to visit the cultural center. There you will see demonstrations about Costa Rican heritage and culture. You will see the process of extracting sugar cane, taste authentic Costa Rican coffee, and see local artisans at work. I brought home a handmade, hand painted bowl from one local artist and it has become my favorite piece in the house. Bring an extra bag because you are going to want to buy everything! 

The People  Costa Rica is a place I will be going back to again and again. It offers luxury, adventure, and beauty while maintaining its rich culture. But the thing I loved most about Costa Rica was the people. In all of my travels I have never met such wonderful people. They are sincerely kind and generous and have great pride for their country. Their love is definitely contagious and I think the best souvenir I brought home was the Pura Vida mentality that they taught me. Costa Rica will have a piece of my heart forever.  

Ready to live Pura Vida? Reach out to an advisor today!