15 Jul Costa Rica

It’s been a month since I came back from Costa Rica.  I have been asked so much about this trip and I knew I was going to be blogging about it.  I had to share my experience.  This was my first time visiting and I was counting the days until I landed for some nice R & R.  My friends and I try to plan at least one girls trip a year. This year we picked Costa Rica which did not disappoint.  I’m not a huge fan of crowds or heavily populated resorts when I’m vacationing, but I know sometimes it is hard to avoid.  This resort had just what we were looking for.  A small amount of people, great amenities, and welcoming hotel staff.

                      We booked our stay at the W Costa Rica Reserva Conchal Nestled in the beautiful oasis of Guanacaste. Located one hour from the Liberia airport (LIR).  The perfectly manicured grounds surrounded by nature and the ocean was more than just a tropical experience.  It was a rebirth of mind, body, and spirit.  Upon arriving we were welcomed with cocktails and smiles.  I was definitely impressed.   We wanted to embark on all Costa Rica had to offer, but at the same time be able to relax and enjoy doing nothing. Each of us have crazy work schedules.

ATV/Coco Loco

The excursions were booked at the hotel.   Riding the ATV’s was my favorite and I probably would have done this twice had I been there at least one more day.  Like I mentioned in a previous blog post Growing up Rich. I grew up in the country and I use to see my friends riding ATV’s all the time, but I had never done this.  Can you imagine how I felt when I realized how much I had missed out on.  I was mad at myself lol!!  The highlight of this experience was seeing the sunset on the beach and also stopping to eat at Coco Loco.  This cute little restaurant is located on Flamingo Beach and known for their signature cocktail Coco Loco.  A combination of coconut water, coconut cream, rum & tequila served frozen in a coconut.  The food there was so amazing we came back again the next night. I recommend the Snapper & Sea Bass.

Vandara’ Hot Springs & Adventures

On our next adventure we were off to Vandara’ Hot Springs & Adventures

On this excursion filled day we were able to Zip line, ride horses, and then relax in the hot springs.  Vandara’ Hot Springs is located an hour and a half from the W hotel.  Transportation is booked through the hotel.  While driving out it was great to see alot of the country side.  We were able to stop and take photos of the amazing views.

Once we arrived we were greeted by our tour guide to get checked in.  First up was the cultural experience.  A short lesson on how they grind coffee beans, which is one thing Costa Rica is known for.  All this was done in an outside kitchen and we all got a chance to flex our strength grinding the beans.  I was amazed watching coffee being brewed in what looked like a homemade Keurig.

Out of this entire experience I was the most nervous about riding horses because this has been a fear of mine for a long time.  Luckily,  the horses were well trained and I made sure to remain relaxed.  I didn’t want them to pick up on my anxiety about riding.  When I showed my kids the photos they couldn’t believe I did it.  With excitement they shouted “MOM YOU RODE A HORSE!”  I was so tickled that they were intrigued by that.

We all know the book by Dr. Seuss Oh The Places You Will Go.  Well I never imagined I would get to zip line across the rainforest.  Oh what a beautiful experience this was.  Even though I prayed to God a million times for our survival.  Vandara’ has 8 zip line platforms. EIGHT!!! I came onboard thinking one little zip line probably won’t be too much.  All 8 were worth it.  A few of them even passing over the river and the hot springs.

Before going over to the hot springs we were made a fresh traditional Costa Rican meal.  All ingredients grown right there. The hisbiscus water quenched our thirst from all the activities we were able to experience. I enjoyed the food so much in Costa Rica.  It was always freshly made and tasted amazing with every bite.

After lunch we relaxed in the hot springs covered by so much nature and heated with volcanic heat.  This was truly a peaceful experience.  It gave us a chance to relax our overexerted muscles.  The mineral mud treatment offered to us added a light exfoliation to our skin leaving it soft and smooth.

The last day of vacation we decided to just lay by the pool and beach. We kicked back enjoyed our drinks and conversation. This place was a hidden gem.  I can’t wait to go back again.  I did not want to leave.  It should have been at least a week and a half.  I miss the sounds of the birds and nature.  The rain that would occasionally fall was so soothing. This trip so good for my soul.

They requested to take a pic with me 🙂