Costa Rica in Central America is a haven for travelers who love nature and outdoor adventure. There are many, Costa Rica resorts to choose from when visiting. Approximately a quarter of this country’s territory is preserved as national parks or conservation areas. Travelers will find misting rainforests, smoking volcanoes, crashing waterfalls and pristine beaches here. In addition, hummingbirds hover at hibiscus flowers and howler monkeys bellow from the treetops. Plus, iguanas may lounge in the sun not far from your poolside chair.

The luxury Costa Rica resorts listed below from VacationsToGo are in the northwest Pacific coast province of Guanacaste. The upfront pricing at the best Costa Rica Resorts includes meals, snacks, alcoholic and nonalcoholic beverages, entertainment and nonmotorized water sports.

Dreams Las Mareas Costa Rica (5 stars)

– Lodging options here include swimout suites with access to a river-like pool, that winds through the property. The Explorer’s Club for ages 3 to 12 provides supervised activities, including a weekly beach campout, while Core Zone for ages 13 to 17 hosts bonfires and dance mixers. Offsite excursions like ziplining and whitewater rafting can be arranged.

Riu Guanacaste (5 stars)

– Situated between deep-green hills and the beach, this resort has multiple dining venues and bars, a spa and a fitness center. For extra pampering, choose a Jacuzzi suite with an ocean-view hot tub on the terrace. The Guanacaste province has several national preserves; Riu’s staff can book an excursion to Rincon de la Vieja, home to hot springs, sloths and spider monkeys.

Riu Palace Costa Rica (5 stars)

– This tropical retreat offers four swimming pools, a swim-up bar, a gym, tennis, windsurfing, kayaking and snorkeling. Other perks include 24-hour room service and an in-room beverage station. The on-site dining scene includes specialty restaurants that focus on Italian, Japanese and other cuisines.

Occidental Papagayo (4 stars)

– The 163 rooms of this no-kids resort are spread across more than two dozen buildings tucked into a lush hillside overlooking the sparkling blue water. All have balconies or terraces. Guests can lounge by a pool surrounded by palms, indulge in a massage at the U-Spa, go kayaking and sample several restaurants and bars.

Secrets Papagayo Costa Rica (5 stars)

– Escape to this luxury resort for a no-kids experience, where you can book an evening “moon and stars” spa treatment, play tennis, snorkel or join a cooking or yoga class. Dining options include the light and healthy cuisine of Aqua, Italian-inspired Portofino and more. Some suites have private plunge pools with views of Culebra Bay.

Have you dreamed of a luxury vacation in tropical Costa Rica? We offer luxury travel services to assist in planning and booking your next getaway. Enjoy a VIP experience!

We hope you enjoy reading about five of the top Costa Rica resorts. This tropical oasis offers so much for luxury travelers.

Photo: Secrets Papagayo Costa Rica

Are you ready to start traveling again? You are not alone. Everyone seems to be. We wanted to share 5 Popular All-Inclusive Resorts in Costa Rica to consider for your next, luxury travel destination.

2020 has been a crazy year, but help is on the way. Luckily, COVID-19 vaccinations are underway in the U.S., U.K. and Canada. As a result, vaccination rates will increase dramatically in the coming months. Operation Warp Speed is the U.S. government’s expedited search for development and delivery of a vaccine. The department’s Chief Science Advisor states that every American who wants a vaccine will be able to get one by June of 2021.

The vaccine rollout marks the turning point in the battle against COVID-19. Hence, the global travel industry is finally on a path to reopen once again. That reopening will take months to play out and will likely occur on a country-by-country basis.

Some tropical destinations that temporarily banned international visitors have already reopened. These countries are currently welcoming tourists. Mexico has a large number of top-selling all-inclusive destinations. They are now open.  In addition, tropical Costa Rica joins that coveted list.

We have highlighted five popular all-inclusive resorts in Costa Rica that are open now. This incredible, Central American country is a haven for travelers who love nature and outdoor adventure. Interestingly, roughly a quarter of its territory is preserved as national parks or conservation areas. For example, see hummingbirds hover at hibiscus flowers and  howler monkeys bellow from the treetops. Plus, iguanas may lounge in the sun, not too far from your poolside chair.

The All-Inclusive Resorts in Costa Rica listed below are in the northwest Pacific coast province of Guanacaste. Consider that upfront resort rate includes – meals, snacks, alcoholic and nonalcoholic beverages. In addition, entertainment and non-motorized water sports are also included.

Hotel Riu Palace Costa Rica — This 5-star tropical retreat offers four swimming pools, a swim-up bar, gym, tennis, windsurfing, kayaking and snorkeling. Other perks include 24-hour room service and an in-room beverage station. Also, the on-site dining scene includes specialty restaurants that focus on Italian, Japanese and other cuisines.

Dreams Las Mareas Costa Rica — Lodging options include swimout suites with access to a river-like pool that winds through the 5-star property. The Explorer’s Club for ages 3 to 12 provides supervised activities, including a weekly beach campout. While Core Zone for ages 13 to 17 hosts bonfires and dance mixers. In addition, offsite excursions like ziplining and whitewater rafting can be arranged.

Planet Hollywood Costa Rica — As part of its “PHit” philosophy, this 4.5-star resort offers an extensive menu of fitness class and activities. Included are sunrise and sunset yoga, TRX training and kickboxing to boot camps, ab workouts and a beach obstacle course. In addition, restaurants include the So Cal Gourmet Food Emporium. They dish up Korean fusion delights, tacos and more.

Secrets Papagayo Costa Rica — Escape to this 5-star getaway for a no-kids vacation. There, you can book an evening “moon and stars” spa treatment, play tennis or snorkel. Plus, join a cooking or yoga class. In addition, dining options include the light and healthy cuisine of Aqua, Italian-inspired Portofino and more. Some suites have private plunge pools with views of Culebra Bay.

Hotel Riu Guanacaste — Between deep-green hills and the beach, is the 5-star Hotel Riu Guanacaste. This luxury resort has multiple dining venues and bars, a spa and a fitness center. For extra pampering, choose a Jacuzzi suite with an ocean-view hot tub on the terrace. Plus, the beautiful Guanacaste province has several national preserves. As a result, Riu’s helpful staff can book an excursion to Rincon de la Vieja, home to hot springs, sloths and spider monkeys.

The Life of Luxury offers a variety of luxury concierge services. From VIP event tickets, to luxury travel to personal shopping services (art, cars, fashion, jewelry, boats, jets and more).  Contact us to take advantage of our luxury travel services.

We hope you enjoyed reading about the 5 All-Inclusive Resorts in Costa Rica. Return again to hear about the latest, luxury travel news.

As winter is nearing with each day, many of us desire a warm tropical destination. We are happy to present these popular all-inclusive resorts in Costa Rica. Enjoy a tropical getaway to Costa Rica and leave the cold weather behind.

This Central American country has become a hot destination for travelers. It’s the perfect blend of natural beauty, rainforests and wildlife. In addition, make your vacation a memorable one. Stay at one of the popular all-inclusive resorts Costa Rica has to offer.

On the northwest Pacific coast of Costa Rica lies Guanacaste. The region borders Nicaragua to the north and to the south, the Nicoya Peninsula. The scenic coast offers white-sand beaches, which are considered by many the best Costa Rica has to offer.

Known for incredible wildlife, Costa Rica is ideal for nature lovers. The country is like an outdoor playground. Above all, you’ll find that about twenty-five precent of its land is preserved as national parks or conservation areas.

Get out and take in nature at its best. Form tny hummingbirds that hover at hibiscus flowers, to howler monkeys that loudly bellow from the rainforest canopy treetops. Plus while you are laying poolside sipping on a cocktail, maybe an iconic iguana will be lounging nearby in the sun.

Read more about these popular all-inclusive resorts in Costa Rica:

Secrets Papagayo Costa Rica: (photo above)
Escape to this 5-star resort for a no-kids vacation. There, you can book an evening “moon and stars” spa treatment. Now that sounds devine. In addition, play tennis, snorkel or join a cooking or yoga class.

Your dining options include 24-hour room service, the light and healthy cuisine of Aqua and Italian-inspired Portofino. Some suites even come with private plunge pools to relax and unwind.

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Hotel Riu Guanacaste:
Between deep-green hills and the beach, the 5-star Hotel Riu Guanacaste has multiple dining venues and bars. You’ll also find a luxury spa and a fitness center. For extra pampering, choose a Jacuzzi suite with an ocean-view hot tub on the terrace.

The Guanacaste province has several national preserves. For example, Riu’s staff can book an excursion to Rincon de la Vieja, home to hot springs, sloths and spider monkeys.

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Occidental Papagayo:
The 169 rooms of this 4-star resort are spread across more than two dozen buildings. These are tucked into a lush hillside overlooking the sparkling blue Gulf of Papagayo.

Resort guests can lounge by the pool surrounded by palms. Maybe get pampered and indulge in an outdoor massage. Also, you can go kayaking and sample several restaurants and bars.

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Dreams Las Mareas Costa Rica:
Lodging options include swimout suites with access to a river-like pool that winds through the 5-star property. The Explorer’s Club for ages 3 to 12 provides supervised activities.

Included are a weekly beach campout, while Core Zone for ages 13 to 17 hosts social gatherings such as bonfires and dance mixers. Offsite excursions like ziplining and whitewater rafting can be arranged.

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Hotel Riu Palace Costa Rica:
This 5-star tropical retreat offers four swimming pools, a swim-up bar, gym, tennis, windsurfing, kayaking and snorkeling. Other perks include 24-hour room service and an in-room beverage station.

The on-site dining scene is a combination of buffets and specialty restaurants. Furthermore, the dining options focus on Italian, Japanese and other cuisines.

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The Life of Luxury can help you plan and book your luxury vacation. Make you dream finally come true and take that magical vacation you deserve.

Lastly, the upfront price for each resort includes accommodations, meals, beverages, entertainment, activities and nonmotorized water sports.

Ready for the winter getaway to Costa Rica. Be sure to stay at one of these popular all-inclusive resorts. Stop by soon to follow our popular luxury blog.

Photo: Secrets Papagayo Costa Rica

If you are planning a luxury vacation to Costa Rica, we know that you have good taste and want a memorable vacation. Be sure to enjoy luxury accommodations in Costa Rica. There is nothing like that blissful sensation when you sink your toes into the fine sand with a cold beverage in your hand. Costa Rica was named the happiest and most sustainable country in the world in 2016.

There is a famous saying in Costa Rica “pura vida” which means pure life. You can literally pick up on the pure life vibe in many luxurious places in this country. It’s actually the 129 the smallest country in the world. The country has 800 miles of coastline that is purely magnificent. Of course, this guide will help you find the most extravagant beaches and places to enjoy the best vacation of your life. We hope you enjoy these luxury accommodations in Costa Rica.

Over 5% of the entire world’s bio-diversity is packed into this tiny country. When you visit Manuel Antonio National Park (photo above), you really feel the embrace of all that bio-diversity. There are 184 species of birds and 109 species of mammals in Manuel Antonio Park alone. The flora and fauna that surrounds the white sand beaches and crystal blue Pacific waters along with the monkeys and sloths is truly priceless in this luxurious world. There are several luxury resorts surrounding Manuel Antonio.

The Makanda by the Sea, Gaia Hotel and Reserve, The Preserve at Los Altos and Arenas del Mar Beachfront & Rainforest Resort are all fantastic options. However, if you want to really experience what it’s like to live extravagantly in Costa Rica you are best to rent a luxury home or villa. Some of the most expensive and deluxe homes lie within Manuel Antonio. Of course, there is also a marina close by to hop on the yacht for a cruise or enjoy some of the best fishing in the world.

Los Suenos Resort and Marina
Inside Los Suenos which translates to the dreams you will find a Marriot along with some classy options that will make you drop your jaw when you say “pura vida”. Golf along the Pacific Coast in a lush green heavenly environment. The marina docks some of the most expensive boats in the country for you to enjoy sumptuous relaxation or the adrenaline when a monster tuna hits the line. There are fine dining
options with marina views but if you want to truly treat yourself then you can hire a personal chef.

There is no dull moment when vacationing in Costa Rica. But if you ever get bored while staying at the Los Suenos Resort, simply take the short trip into Jaco. Once there, you will find an array of adventure tours and great dining. Try your luck at Las Vegas style Croc’s Casino and Resort and spend a night in the penthouse suite. Jaco is one of the best places to party in Costa Rica for the wild ones.

All along the Pacific Coast around Manuel Antonio and Jaco, there are some great options to rest if you want to tour around to different hotels. North of Los Suenos you can find Villa Caletas, a luxury resort that is known for weddings, fine dining and one of the best sunset views in Costa Rica. To the south of Jaco you can find numerous options for rental properties and hotels along the beach. If you enjoy luxury food then make reservations at the Permaculture Country Club to enjoy some amazing organic food and ocean view properties.

Arenal Volcano Area ​
The town La Fortuna is home to recently active Arenal Volcano. La Fortuna translates to the fortune and you certainly feel fortunate when you bask in the hot springs and breathe the fresh mountain air. The area is a hotbed for hot springs and this will be your favorite activity here along with the pampering at the spas. Tabacon Hotel and Nayara Resort, Spa and Gardens have phenomenal views of the Volcano that once glowed at night.

Are you ready for a luxury vacation? Try any of the above luxury accommodations in Costa Rica for a memorable VIP experience. Be sure to stop by again to read more travel stories in our luxury blog.

Looking for a luxury stay in Costa Rica? Consider the Villa Buena Onda boutique hotel for an amazing, tropical VIP experience.

Villa Buena Onda is an adults-only hotel and features eight guest rooms that are quite spacious. The locals call it VBO for short, but it’s an ideal place to stay for newlyweds, couples or anyone wanting to celebrate a romantic getaway in the beauty of Costa Rica.

You will find Villa Buena Onda on north-west corner of Costa Rica’s Pacific coast. The Guanacaste Provence doesn’t receive as much rainfall, so the warm and dry climate makes it an ideal destination for vacationers.

The views from the hotel are incredible. You can see the property’s salt water infinity pool, a chaise lounge area and lush green lawn. As you gaze further out, the nearby town of Playas del Coco and blue waters of the gorgeous Pacific Ocean take your breath away.

Foodies will like that all your meals are included in your hotel stay at Villa Buena Onda. There’s a covered patio on the first floor where you can enjoy breakfast, lunch and dinner. You can order from the restaurant’s la carte menu. Rest assured all meals are fresh and made to order!

This Costa Rica boutique hotel takes attention to detail to another level. From the curved wall of the lap pool to the relaxing lounge area, each level of design has a purpose. The furniture that was chosen is not only of the highest quality, but blends in perfectly to the natural setting that surrounds the hotel.

After a busy day sightseeing or playing in the Pacific Ocean, consider a relaxing massage. On the second floor, there is an open air terrace that faces the open ocean. Unwind, listen to the music and give in to a tremendous massage.

Another must do is taking a dip in the lap pool. After splashing around, be sure swim up to the outdoor bar. You’ll find five seats and can order your favorite cocktail or drink of choice.

Be sure to get out and try something adventuresome. Ask the hotel’s concierge desk for recommendations on what to see and do. They can help make your arrangements like a local guided tour or a tranquil boat ride to a quiet beach. There are many activities such as fishing, snorkeling, or swimming in the Pacific Ocean.

For an unbelievable vacation in Costa Rica, stay at the Villa Buena Onda hotel. Get close to nature and enjoy this luxury, boutique hotel. We can assist with your travel plans. Read our luxury blog to hear about more top vacation destinations around the world.

Photos: Villa Buena Onda

Occidental Grand Punta Cana

As winter sets in, most of those desire a getaway to a tropical paradise to soak in the sun and fun.

We are offering 10 top-selling luxury resorts that you can choose from. Punta Cana, Dominican Republic dominates the list of all-inclusive properties with five. The remaining five luxury resorts are located in Mexico, Jamaica and Costa Rica.

Punta Cana, Dominican Republic is becoming a really hot destination so now is your chance to experience what all the buzz is about by booking your trip now!

1) Melia Caribe Tropical, Punta Cana, Dominican Republic — This 5-star property offers many lures, like lagoon-style swimming pools, eight lighted tennis courts, two world-class spas and an arcade with video games for the kids. Dining options range from casual buffet meals to internationally inspired cuisine available at 10 specialty restaurants. Melia Caribe is a family-friendly resort with dedicated kids’ facilities and activities.

2) Occidental Grand Punta Cana, Punta Cana, Dominican Republic — Tall coconut palms and thatched palapas dot the beautiful beach in front of the 4-star Occidental Grand Punta Cana, which is a 20-minute ride from the airport. The 865 rooms are housed in 17 three-story, white buildings spread around the property. The draws here include nine themed restaurants, seven bars and three lagoon-style swimming pools, one dedicated to children as part of the on-site youth club.

3) Barcelo Bavaro Palace Deluxe, Punta Cana, Dominican Republic. The calm waters in front of this 5-star retreat are protected by a coral reef, and kayaking, snorkeling and pedal boats are included among the complimentary water sports. There are four pools, with one reserved for adults. Children ages 3 and up find age-appropriate activities at the Barcy Kids Club, and teens can enjoy music and alcohol-free drinks in The Xone disco. The Gran Teatro Bavaro hosts daily performances, including a children’s show. Guests have access to 11 restaurants. There’s also a full-service spa and a well-equipped gym.

4) Golden Parnassus All Inclusive Resort & Spa Cancun, Cancun, Mexico — Slip into the kids-free ambience of this 4-star resort tucked between the Nichupte Lagoon and the Caribbean Sea. A getaway here can be spent snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters, playing tennis or volleyball, relaxing in the steam room or mingling over drinks in the Beer Garden or the Tiki Bar. Try the signature Wayak massage in the spa, a treatment that combines four different massage techniques.

5) Excellence Punta Cana, Punta Cana, Dominican Republic — Dance lessons, archery, snorkeling, bicycle tours and yoga classes are part of the all-inclusive package at this 5-star retreat. Additional amenities include two pools, eight a la carte restaurants, 10 bars, a spa and a cardio-conditioning facility. The kids-free Excellence Punta Cana is a favorite for active couples looking for an engaging getaway.

6) Iberostar Punta Cana, Punta Cana, Dominican Republic — This 4-star resort is part of the Iberostar complex in Punta Cana, steps away from the white sands of Playa Bavaro. Shared amenities include a spa, a fitness center, an 18-hole golf course, live entertainment and a retail area with a supermarket, pharmacy, jeweler and souvenir shop. There are activities and spaces devoted to children and teens, plus a club for the 13-to-17 set outfitted with video games and a sound-mixing booth.

7) Grand Palladium Jamaica Resort and Spa, Montego Bay, Jamaica — Between this retreat and neighboring sister property Grand Palladium Lady Hamilton Resort and Spa (both resorts share a beachfront spot), vacationers have access to about two dozen bars and restaurants, water sports from kayaking to windsurfing, poolside games and nightly entertainment. During your stay at the 4-star resort, relax in the first-class Spa & Wellness Center, enjoy a round of golf at the championship course or go kayaking or snorkeling.

8) Hotel Riu Palace Cabo San Lucas, Los Cabos, Mexico — Tropical gardens surround this palace-like, 5-star resort on the Baja California peninsula. Standout features include the RiuLand children’s program, live evening shows, complimentary land and water sports, a fitness room and spa. Buffets and a la carte restaurants, including Japanese and Mexican eateries, await when hunger strikes. Between December and March, you have a good chance of seeing gray whales in the Cabo area, and the hotel’s staff can help you arrange a whale-watching excursion.

9) Crown Paradise Club Cancun, Cancun, Mexico — With family suites that accommodate up to seven people, this 4-star resort is a good choice for a vacation with the kids. Supervised activities are scheduled throughout the day for young guests in the children’s program, which is divided into three tiers: 18 months to 3 years, 4 to 12 years and 13 to 17 years. There are even nightly themed shows just for kids. Adults can indulge in the spa, play golf or tennis or enjoy the paddle boats, Hobie Cats and snorkeling gear.

10) Hotel Riu Guanacaste, Guanacaste, Costa Rica — This 5-star resort is located on Costa Rica’s beautiful Pacific coast. Sports enthusiasts will enjoy free access to beach volleyball, tennis, snorkeling, kayaking and windsurfing. Take scuba diving lessons in the pool, or indulge in a hot stone or shiatsu massage in the Renova Spa. A kids’ program caters to young guests ages 4 to 12. Jacuzzi suites feature an ocean-view hot tub on the terrace.

Please use the Contact Form below to submit your travel request at one of these incredible luxury resorts. We will promptly get back to you.

Kurà Design Vi​llas – Costa Rica

The Pacific Coast of Costa Rica is well known for beautiful white sand beaches, great weather, terrific surf and tropical forests. Beginning in November, enjoy Costa Rica with a stay at the new Kurà Design Villas.

Kurà Design Villas will be a new level of eco-friendly, boutique hotel design located on the southern Pacific Coast of Costa Rica. By combining their collective expertise in both architecture and biology, the Kurà Design Villas owners have truly created a minimalist design and boutique hotel experience.

The desire of both Costa Rican owners Alejandra Umana (the biologist) and Martin Wells (the architect) was to share their love of their country’s rich biodiversity and beauty in conjunction with a memorable hospitality experience.

The result of their efforts is a minimalist design, allowing the lush mountain top rainforest to blend with the elegance of the luxury villa accommodations.

Kurà Design Vi​llas will offer its guests six hillside villas for up to 12 guests, including two luxury suites; two infinity villas featuring high ceilings and expansive terraces, tucked beneath the salt-water infinity pool; and two junior suites boasting unique tree-canopy views, perfect for wildlife-watchers.

Each of the luxury villas features an open-plan concept that showcases luxurious amenities, including – king-sized bed with quality linens, plush towels and bathrobes, private minibar and wine cellar, double rainfall-style shower, iPod docking station, free wireless internet, and espresso coffeemaker.

Luxury guest amenities abound at Kurà Design Vi​llas. Take a dip in the 19-metre (62-foot) saltwater infinity pool or enjoy the outdoor lounge, bar and spa area. The property offers private jungle hiking trails.

Your dining options will include daily meals at the on-site restaurant serving Costa Rican fusion cuisine using local organic produce and tropical ingredients. The Diablitos Bar serves Costa Rican-style drinks and cocktails where guests can lounge in the shade; the Sky Lounge provides guests with a 360 degree view for star gazing at night.

For relaxation and rejuvenation, try the property’s full service spa. You can even request private yoga lessons.

Pricing for overnight room rates for a villa at Kurà range from $440 – $540 USD per night in the green season (May 1-October 31) to $640- $740 USD during the high season (November 1 – April 31).

If interested in learning more or booking a reservation, please contact us at:

Found near the city limits of Escazu and Santa Ana in tropical Costa Rica, this incredible luxury estate is for sale.

Enjoy the unobstructed panoramic mountain and city views from this amazing 4 bedrooms, 6 full bathroom home. Offering a living area of more than 1,300 m2, this luxury home is ideal for anyone who has yearned to live in Costa Rica.

This home was built from top to bottom with the best materials and craftsmanship. Ideal for entertaining, try the incredible home theatre with a 120” screen, hi-fi audio equipment and comfortable theatre chairs.

To go upstairs, you have two choices – walk up the grand staircase or take the elevator that covers all four levels.

The master suite is stunning and has electric blinds. Step outside on a wraparound balcony with a spiral stair case that takes you down to the beautiful swimming pool. Enjoy the separate his and her sides in the master bathroom as well as a huge shower offering a fully customizable Kohler Water Tile system with a DTV digital interface.

On the ground floor, you’ll find the kitchen and bar area, formal dining room with a crystal chandelier, the great room, playroom, office, wine cava, butler’s pantry, full size gymnasium and a spa with massage room. The spacious kitchen offers direct access to a covered patio and the garden with a heated pool and an outdoor kitchen.

Asking price for this luxury home is $3,900,000 USD

For more information about this Costa Rica estate home, please contact us at:

Costa Rica has long been a favorite destination for those who want to explore its rich biodiversity. Located in Central America, Costa Rica has created a comprehensive legal framework for the conservation and sustainable use of biodiversity.

Nestled between the Caribbean Sea and the Pacific Ocean, Costa Rica is located in Central America between Nicaragua and Panama. Costa Rica shelters almost 5 percent of the world’s biodiversity and 3.5 percent of the world’s marine life.

The Costa Rica Tourism Board is proud to just announce that Costa Rica was recognized as the most popular destination in the world for travelers interested in an eco-friendly trip.

This distinguished award was courtesy of a recent TripAdvisor eco-friendly travel survey.

Costa Rica has been on the forefront of the ecotourism trend, establishing a Certification for Sustainable Tourism (CST) program in 1999, an internationally-recognized certification program that grades the sustainability of a tourism entity based on four pillars of its infrastructure.

The findings of TripAdvisor’s survey indicate that the green travel trend is gaining traction among its members, as 71 percent indicated that they plan to make more eco-friendly travel choices in the next 12 months. In fact, the survey found that more than half of the respondents were willing to spend more money to stay at an eco-friendly hotel, with nearly a third of travelers saying they would choose to travel to a destination because it’s considered eco-friendly.

For additional  information about Costa Rica and the country’s continued commitment to sustainability and other environmental initiatives, please visit www.visitcostarica.com or call the Costa Rica Tourist Board at 1-866-267-8274.

Nature Air is based out of San José, Costa Rica and offers 74 daily flights to 15 destinations in Costa Rica, Nicaragua and Panama. In operation since 2001, Nature Air also has the honor of being the world’s first certified carbon neutral airline.

Nature Air has just announced two new eco-extension packages perfect for birdlovers. Join the search for Costa Rica’s resplendent quetzal, an elusive bird that’s known for its iridescent bluish-green feathers and divine representation in indigenous folklore.

The Costa Rica tour was designed along the National Biodiversity Institute of Costa Rica (INBio). The goal of Nature Air’s new eco-extensions is to showcase the resplendent quetzal during the height of its nesting season, from now through May, in a responsible and Earth-friendly manner.

Known by the ancient Maya and Aztecs to be the “god of air” and a symbol for goodness and light, the resplendent quetzal measures about 36 to 40 cm (14 to 16 inches) in length with an extra 65 cm (26 inches) in bright green tail feathers (an impressive feature that was symbolic of springtime plant growth). The bird can be typically spotted in the Costa Rican cloud forests of Monteverde, Cerro de la Muerte and five other national reserves during their nesting season.

Both packages depart from San José, Costa Rica and include ground transfers, a two-night stay in a sustainable hotel and a guided quetzal-watching tour.

The quetzal eco-extension package is the first of many new biodiversity-centric itineraries being rolled out this year by Nature Air, the world’s first carbon-neutral airline. Each has been designed with guidance from expert INBio field guides to promote hands-on learning and provide rich wildlife encounters.

Details of Nature Air’s new eco-extension packages for quetzal-watchers:

– San Ramón, Alajuela – Bird lovers and history buffs alike should flock over to San Ramón, a small city located 60 kms (37 miles) northeast of San José. Surrounded by spectacular mountains and cloud forests (the ideal nesting spot for the quetzal), San Ramón is known as “the city of presidents and poets,” having been the birthplace (or home) to many well-known political and literary figures. Nature Air’s two-night/three-day eco-extension package to San Ramón includes overnights at Villa Blanca (an eco-friendly hotel that was once owned by former president Rodrigo Carazo), a cloud forest nature walk and quetzal tour, free access to the hotel’s vast hiking paths, round-trip ground transfers to the hotel from San José and breakfast each day. Package price per person is $456 (based on double occupancy; available until Nov. 30, 2012).

– San Gerardo de Dota, San José – Travellers wanting to stretch their wings in a natural setting can chirp with delight in San Gerardo de Dota, a birdwatcher’s paradise with plenty of busy woodpeckers and hummingbirds, rolling hills and picturesque fruit plantations. Nature Air’s two-night/three-day eco-extension package to San Gerardo de Dota includes overnights at Savegre Hotel (an eco-lodge set in the midst of a 400-hectare private nature reserve), a quetzal bird-watching tour, round-trip ground transfers to the hotel from San José and breakfast each day. Package price per person is $430 (based on double occupancy; available until Nov. 30, 2012).

For additional information about Nature Air Vacations or to book a quetzal-centric eco-extension package, please visit www.naturevacations.com

Arenas Del Mar Resort – Costa Rica

Renewing wedding vows is a great chance to relive the magic of your wedding and taking a break from life’s various stresses to appreciate your partner.  The opportunity to renew your vows at a romantic place is almost always a must, but getting the chance to renew them in Costa Rica is a great bonus.  Luxurious Arenas Del Mar Beachfront & Rainforest Eco-Resort in Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica offers just the bonus.

For a limited time, Arenas Del Mar Resort is offering a special package to couples looking to renew their vows in a paradise-like setting where all flowers are real and exotic, windowless ballrooms are nonexistent, and soggy reheated entrees are not allowed.  Arenas Del Mar’s wedding renewal package celebrates everlasting love under one of the most romantic settings in the world.

The package includes all of the luxurious, fairytale essentials.  It begins with an airport welcome and transportation to the hotel along with a gift basket.  Next, a breezy beachfront ceremony location with lightly scented tropical floral decor, champagne breakfast in bed the morning after the wedding, and a romantic candlelit dinner on the beach.

Arenas Del Mar is Manuel Antonio’s only luxury beachfront property and Costa Rica’s first hotel with a perfect rating of five-star extravagance and five-leaf sustainability.  All of the rooms at the Arenas Del Mar are spacious and air-conditioned, equipped with decks with private Jacuzzis and sweeping ocean view, two gourmet restaurants, a full-service spa, and a range of guided wilderness activities that include bird watching tours, late night rainforest treks to sunset catamaran voyages and adventurous whitewater rafting.

Whether you’re renewing your vows or simply looking to getaway, Arenas Del Mar will surely offer something worthwhile for everyone.