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If you're up for adventure with a hint of relaxation, Costa Rica is the place for you. This is the country in Central America whose catch phrase is “Pura Vida”, which translates to mean pure or good life, and that is what you will experience in this country of “Ticos”, the term they use to refer to themselves. They are outgoing and friendly and most people speak English.
I stayed at the Westin Golf Resort and Spa, which, as you can tell, has a spa and golf course on the grounds. It is a sprawling property with a giant pool (capacity of 950 people) and a beach. They provide shuttles so you can get to all the areas for your activities. The rooms are large – I stayed in a deluxe junior suite. It had over 500 square feet of space, a sofa bed, minibar, coffee maker, flat screen TV, free wired internet access and very large bathrooms filled with amenities. It is an all-inclusive property and you can rest assured that the food is quite good. Due to their rich soil and tropical climate, the fruits and vegetables are delicious. I went to lunch that was served as a buffet and picked up a carrot that I thought was a prop because it was about 16 inches in length. Lo and behold, it was real! I was really embarrassed, but grateful for the magnificent food.
While you are in Costa Rica, you must get off the property to see some amazing sights. There are plenty of tours available that can be easily arranged through the hotel. You are not far from Tamarindo, which is great for shopping, has some fun restaurants and fantastic surfing. Be sure and buy some coffee – some of the best in the world. I also brought back colorful pottery and textiles.
As I mentioned, this is an adventure destination, so sign up for ziplines, boat rides that take you through the wildlife (keep your hands inside, there are crocodiles) and always look out for monkeys – they are everywhere! You will also encounter iguanas, lizards and birds – there are over 850 species throughout the country.
One of the most exciting excursions I took was to Arenal Volcano. I have to warn you that is about 5-6 hours on bumpy roads from this hotel, but it can be done in a day trip – just bring your pillow for the ride home. Otherwise, book a couple days there and stay for rafting and other adventurous activities. Until 2010, Arenal was one of the 10 most active volcanoes in the world. Here, the hiking trails will take you through lava fields and previous eruptions. I found the way down was more difficult than the climb up, but well worth the trip. Once you get back down, you can enjoy the heated Hot Springs and a good meal.
When you venture out into the wilderness, bring repellant and wear long sleeves and long pants.
After a good night's sleep in your comfortable bed at the hotel, you can sign up for yoga on the beach or go horseback riding or just hang out at the pool or beach – you will deserve it!
Here's a hint – take home some “salsa lizano”, it's a vegetable sauce they use on their food like Americans use ketchup – it's slightly sweet with a hint of curry.
The adventure awaits and the hotel balances it out with luxury.
Website: www.westinplayaconchal.com
Rating: 
July 1, 2023
