Travelers looking for a rejuvenating escape may find the Andaz Costa Rica Resort at Peninsula Papagayo an inviting choice. This luxury destination offers a chance to explore private villas alongside a Blue Zones wellness program, making it an attractive option for those seeking both relaxation and vitality.
A direct JetBlue flight from New York’s JFK to Liberia International Airport in Costa Rica provides an easy transition from urban life to exotic scenery. A brief drive takes visitors to a secluded area that feels a world away from daily worries. Wrapped in lush jungle and close to the shoreline, the resort offers a high-end experience that harmonizes with its natural surroundings. Upon arrival, guests are greeted in the open-air lobby with chilled local beverages. The weather in late June averages a warm 86 degrees Fahrenheit, accompanied by intermittent rain.
Guests are then introduced to their personal villa, part of a new collection of one- to three-bedroom accommodations that debuted in January. These villas combine the comforts of home with resort luxury, featuring private plunge pools and a dedicated concierge service reachable via text. The villas, designed with an ownership component, gained popularity quickly and are now part of the resort’s rental offerings.
Among the villa’s many appealing features is a kitchen equipped with high-end appliances, perfect for those who enjoy cooking. A conveniently hidden washer and dryer are available for guests wishing to refresh their attire during their stay.
The villas are situated on a hillside, offering stunning vistas of the verdant landscape and Culebra Bay. Sitting outside, one can take in the tranquil surroundings where a variety of local wildlife flourishes. The sounds of howler monkeys resonate through the trees, adding to the Central American ambiance. On one occasion, while savoring morning coffee on our terrace, a deer and her fawn wandered by, amplifying the serene connection to nature.
(Andaz Costa Rica)
Patrick Schori, the general manager of Andaz Costa Rica, brings a wealth of luxury experience from his previous role at Park Hyatt Tokyo. During his warm welcome, Schori conveyed his intention to uphold a level of service akin to that of a Park Hyatt. This commitment is evident throughout the resort, where anticipatory service and friendly interactions contribute to a laid-back atmosphere.
Guests in the villas enjoy added privileges, such as exclusive access to breakfast at the newly opened Ostra restaurant, along with priority dinner reservations. The culinary offerings are under the guidance of Executive Sous Chef Bruno Alves, who is known for his creative take on Costa Rican cuisine, featuring dishes like rice and bean croquettes and fresh fish prepared as ceviche. The dining experience extends to Perla, a sushi bar that provides a unique culinary option within the resort.
Beyond dining, villa guests can enjoy curated market-fresh baskets delivered to their doors and participate in a “Becoming a Barista” program, which delves into the rich coffee culture of Costa Rica. This sought-after program, led by Head Barista Luis Carlos Herrera, makes advance booking a necessity.
As part of their experience, villa guests also have the opportunity to visit nearby communities. A local breakfast hosted at a family’s home provides an authentic taste of Costa Rican hospitality, featuring fresh bread, fruits, queso, and scrambled eggs. The farm visit is part of the Peninsula Papagayo’s outreach initiative, Creciendo Juntos, designed to enhance education, healthcare, and employment in the surrounding towns. This initiative emerged during the pandemic, equipping local families with farming skills that enable them to sell crops both locally and to the hotels in the area.
Looking ahead, the Andaz is poised to enhance its offerings with the debut of Casa de Playa and Meso, its beach club and restaurant set for introduction in 2024. The beach club, located on Nacascolo Beach, which is revered for its beauty, offers a seamless transition to a luxurious yet authentic experience. A short hike through nature leads guests to a boat that traverses Culebra Bay, blending adventure with accessibility.
Upon arriving at the beach club, guests find themselves enveloped in a tranquil environment, complete with calm waters, loungers, and cabanas. A refreshing drink and a taste of local dishes, such as gazpacho and boquerones, make for a leisurely afternoon.
(Andaz Costa Rica)
At Meso, Chef Bruno is once again at the forefront, this time showcasing a fusion of Meso American and Mediterranean cuisine. Dishes such as surf-and-turf paella and homemade pasta appeal to diverse palates. The dining experience emphasizes shared plates, bringing a communal aspect to meals. Innovative cocktails add to the relaxed atmosphere, including a refreshing “Watermelon-Mint” drink found on their zero-proof menu.
While the experience at Andaz Costa Rica is rich with activities, including water sports, zip-lining, and hiking, many opt for relaxation at the resort’s spa. The Papagayo Illuminating Facial and various massage treatments leave guests feeling rejuvenated.
In late June, a Blue Zones retreat offered guests insights into healthy living based on research from areas known for longevity. The next retreats will occur in early 2025. Participants learn how to align their lifestyles with the principles of healthy living, under expert guidance that encourages personal reflection and lifestyle adjustments.
(Andaz Costa Rica)
Led by Blue Zones expert Celine Vadam, the program emphasizes fostering positive relationships and making mindful lifestyle choices. Discussions and practical exercises deepen understanding of longevity principles, providing guests with actionable takeaways. The retreat culminates in strategies for integrating these healthy practices into everyday life.
With its proximity to the Nicoya Blue Zone, the Andaz presents an ideal locale for travelers eager for wellness and rejuvenation.
(Andaz Costa Rica)
