Travel Aesthetic

Resort Spotlight: Couples Tower Isle

Couples Tower Isle is an all-inclusive, beachfront resort, located on the beautiful north shores of Jamaica about 90 minutes from Sangster International. The resort atmosphere is designed with couples-only (18+) in mind so romance is easily found.

Blending breezy island-chic style with Jamaica’s flair for elegance and sophistication, Couples Tower Isle is Couples’ flagship retreat on the lush coastline of Ocho Rios. The resort grounds mimic a midcentury island playground for Hollywood’s most famous celebrities while this tropical oasis continues to delight romantics of every age.

The resort features its own private island just yards off the shimmering white sand beach with boat shuttles over daily. Be aware; the private island allows for clothing optional sunbathing. This all-inclusive boutique resort features farm-to-table cuisine, award-winning spa services and stunning views of tranquil turquoise waters that take your breath away from the moment you walk into the lobby.

Resort Areal View; photo courtesy of Couples Resorts

218 rooms & suites in nine [9] categories including the exquisite Oasis Spa Villas & Signature Oasis Spa Villas. Any stay in this category offers private access to Couples’ award-winning Oasis Spa with unlimited spa services, as well as its own private sun terrace, personal plunge pool, and separate living room. In addition, guests enjoy private round-trip airport transfers, in-villa check-in. There is a minimum 5 nights stay in Oasis Spa Villas.

Signature Oasis Villa Private Pool; photo courtesy of Couples Resorts

Couples Tower Isle is one of the four all inclusive and adults only Couples properties on the island.

Wedding Gazebo; photo courtesy of Couples Resorts

Fact Sheet:

All Inclusive & Adults only
6 Onsite Dining Options
5 Bars/Lounges
Room Service is available from 6am to 11:00pm with dining options available 24 hours a day
Four Freshwater pools, 5 outdoor jacuzzis, and 5 tennis courts
Daily & Nightly Activities/Entertainment
Fitness Center
Spa services available at Oasis Spa (included for Oasis Villa guest; extra charge for standard guests)
Beachfront w/ offshore private island (clothing optional) accessible via boat shuttle
Water-sports and Scuba INCLUDED
Complimentary off resort excursions INCLUDED
Complimentary Weddings – ‘One Love’ wedding package including onsite wedding planner with stays of 6 nights or longer
Complimentary honeymoon package w/ stays of 6 nights or longer

Value-Added Inclusions:
Couples brand is one of the only brands in the Caribbean to offers complimentary off resort excursions to it’s guests! Below are the offerings from Couples Tower Isle:

– Catamaran Cruises
– Dunn’s River Falls Tour
– Golf
– Scuba
– Motorized and Non-Motorized Water Sports (with instruction)
– Shopping Tour
– Glass Bottom Boat Rides
– Snorkeling Excursion
– Shuttle to Margaritaville in Ocho Rios

Tower Isle; photo courtesy of Couples Resorts

Notes on Tower Isle:
Couples’ own private island for those guests who prefer au natural sunbathing, complete with a swim-up pool bar, hammocks, lounge chairs and snack bar. The private island is located just offshore of the resort and accessible via boat shuttle provided for guests throughout the day.

Over-water Dining; photo courtesy of Couples Resorts

Resort Spotlight: Sandals Grande St. Lucian

This 17 acre Resort for couples only, sits on a spectacular peninsula surrounded by the warm Caribbean Sea. Pigeon Island, home to St. Lucia’s annual St. Lucia Jazz Festival, combines historic British & French flavor that unfolds at Sandals.

The resort offers exotic island & international culinary temptations at twelve [12] restaurants, ocean & beach view accommodations and a meandering lagoon swim-up pool where guests can swim right up to their patio.

311 Rooms & Suites in Nineteen [19] Categories including the exquisite Over-the-Water Honeymoon Butler Bungalows.

Over-the-Water Bungalows; photo courtesy of Sandals

Sandals Grande St. Lucian is one of the three all inclusive and adults only Sandal’s properties on the island.

Location:

Approximately 6 miles Northwest of the city of Castries, on a causeway between Pigeon Island and Rodney Bay. The resort will provide transfers from both the Hewanorra International Airport[UVF] located 40 miles south [1 hour 30 minutes away] and George F.L. Charles Airport [SLU] which is 6 miles [20 minute away]

Wedding Chapel; photo courtesy of Sandals

Fact Sheet:

All Inclusive
12 Onsite Dining Options
7 Bars/Lounges w/ 1 swim up bar
24hr Room Service is available for guests in Butler categories of accommodation and 7am to 10:00pm for Club Level categories of accommodation
Five (5) Freshwater pools, three (3) Whirlpools and one (1) Scuba Dive Pool On-site
Daily & Nightly Activities/Entertainment
24/7 Fitness Center with guided classes
Spa services available at Redlane Spa (extra charge)
Golf is included onsite at 2 different courses (18-Hole (par 71) & 9-Hole (par 33) available at Cap Estate Golf & Country Club)
Pro Shop
Semi-private beach
Water-sports and Scuba INCLUDED
Full exchange privileges with Sandals Halcyon Beach and Sandals Regency la Toc including complimentary transfers, giving access to 27 dining options (on hold due to COVID)

Areal Resort View; photo courtesy of Sandals

Resort Layout:

Sandals Grande is located on its own peninsula and comprised of four distinct guest areas; the Caribbean Village (pool front building that houses the majority of guest suites), Swim-up Village (beachfront area that houses suits that swim out to a shared pool), Grande Rondovals (suites with private pools and butlers on either end of the resort), and the coveted Over-The-Water Bungalows (which speak for themselves)

Entertainment Schedule:

Sunday – “Jazz Trio” – Amazing show by St. Lucian Jazz performers
Monday – “St. Lucia We Love” – Ultimate Water & Fire Spectacle [Over-the-Water Show] Tuesday – “Showtime on Broadway”
Wednesday – “Beach Party” – Followed by Live Country Singer
Thursday – “Sandals Live” – Showtime Burlesque
Friday – “Love Hop” – Chocolate Gala , Silent Headphones Party
Saturday – “Reggae Night” – A Journey through Reggae Music

*Subject to change

Beach Cabanas; photo courtesy of Sandals

Included Water/Land Sports:

Billiards/Pool Outdoor Games, Table Tennis, Volley Ball, Giant Jenga, Board Games, Snooker Table, Croquet, Bocce Ball, Golf Putting, Two [2] lit Tennis Courts, Horse Shoe Throwing, Corn Hole, Golf

Windsurfing, Wake Boarding, Knee Boarding, Snorkeling, Kayaking, Paddleboards, Sailing, Water Skiing. Scuba Diving available daily for Certified Divers. Discover Scuba Diving (DSD) and Certification also available for beginners at an additional fee.

Beachfront Club Level Suite Balcony View; photo courtesy of Sandals

Club Sandals VIP Status:

The Club Sandals Lounge is accessible between the hours of 8am – 10pm to assist with reservations for spas, excursions, restaurants and just about anything you need.
Preferred Club Sandals Lounge check-in with chilled towel and champagne.
Weekly hosted activities like a Cocktail party, a Martini Evening, Wine tasting, and more
In Room/Suite and Lounge bars with scotch, vodka, rum, whisky, wine, beer, juices, sodas and water.
Relax with a kindle in the Club Sandals Lounge, while enjoying mouthwatering culinary treats, anassortment of teas and world renowned Blue Mountain coffee, complimentary Wi-Fi suitable for e-mailing and browsing.

Bulter VIP Status:

All Sandals properties offer butler add ons with the uncompromising attention to detail. Personal butlers are trained to the highest standards by the elite Guild of Professional English Butlers. Guests who add this on to their rooms will be pampered throughout your stay in extraordinary ways. From attending to your wardrobe, serving a glorious repast on your terrace, or breakfast in bed.

Gordon’s Pier Restaurant Dinner View; photo courtesy of Sandals

Notes on Tipping:

Sandals Resorts are one of the only resorts in the Caribbean to strictly enforce their “No Tipping”. Tips are not to be accepted by Team Members except Butlers, Spa Therapists & Private Airport Transfer Drivers

Resort Photos:

Resort Spotlight: Ladera Resort

Ladera is Saint Lucia’s original, adults only, ultra luxury, open-air hotel. All villas and guest suites boast a private plunge pool and are intentionally built without a fourth wall, allowing astounding views of the island’s two volcanic Piton mountains and of the fishing village of Soufrière, while remaining safe and private.

The resort features a boutique vibe and encourages guests to explore the surrounding town of Soufriere.

This ultimate rainforest hideaway with just 37 Suites is located 1,100 feet above sea level providing panoramic views of the island. Ladera is located on the southern end of Saint Lucia, just outside the port town of Soufrière, approximately 40 minutes from Hewanorra International Airport (UVF)

Fact Sheet:

European & All Inclusive (notes below) plan available
1 Onsite Farm to Table Restaurant (full breakfast included with both above options)
1 Onsite Bar
Welcome drink upon arrival with cool towels
Twice-daily maid service
Full use of resort facilities
Complimentary beach shuttle
Infinity-edge pool overlooking the Pitons and Caribbean Sea
Concierge
Fitness facility
Wireless internet access throughout resort
Complimentary yoga sessions Monday – Friday
Complimentary guided private tour of the Ladera Gardens
Complimentary on-site hike exclusive only to Ladera guests
Yoga mats in all rooms
Complimentary Private Car round trip transfers from and to Hewanorra International Airport (UVF) are provided for all suites
Ti Kai Posé Spa
Infinity pool used in the filming of “Superman II”
A library, located at the T’cholit Bar, offers a large selection of reading material plus a variety of board games
Portable DVD players are available from reception for in-suite movie-watching
In room dining available

All Inclusive Plan:

Hotel accommodations as selected
Breakfast, lunch and dinner daily
All drinks by the glass (all alcoholic beverages are house brands; bottled wines and champagne are not included)

All of the three walled villas at Ladera boast private plunge pools overlooking the famous Piton mountains, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Caribbean Sea and the Soufrière valley.

Ladera is known for its distinctive eco-lodge architecture, built with Caribbean timbers and modeled on luxury tree-house living and a relaxed, barefoot lifestyle. This is the ultimate eco experience but be prepared to wake up with lizards on your wall.

Villas and suites were intentionally built without a fourth wall, yet are designed to be sheltered, safe and completely private. The design affords spectacular sunset views and unobstructed star gazing at night. Mosquito nets are available in each suite

The Resort’s Dream Suites are largest and most popular with two levels of living space as well as butler service for the entirety of the stay. Designed in Ladera’s elegant, tropical architecture using polished hard woods, crisp white linens, colorful tile and stonework by local artisans, these suites are truly dream-worthy. Plus, they include a private deck and a spiral staircase that leads to a private plunge pool.

Hilltop Dreams Suite Interior photo via Ladera

Client Photos:

Resort Spotlight: Sandals Regency la Toc

Sandals Regency La Toc Golf Resort & Spa in St. Lucia is situated in the secluded setting of a 220 acre tropical estate with its own golf course sloping down the hillside to a magnificent golden beach. The resort has a sophisticated yet fun atmosphere and a tremendous variety of rooms and exquisitely furnished suites, including the magnificent Millionaire Suites

Sandals Regency la Toc is one of the three all inclusive and adults only Sandal’s properties on the island. A half mile “Regal style Plantation” gated entrance driveway leads guests slowly down the manicured fairways, to an expansive vista and beach front escape

The resort features 323 superbly furnished rooms, including 114 suites, in 22 categories on 220 acres. Most suites have a view of the majestic Caribbean Sea. All suites offer air conditioning, mahogany king sized bed, hair dryer, direct dial
telephone, private bath and shower, safety deposit box, clock radio, coffee and tea making facilities, refrigerator, cable color TV & iron and ironing board. All rooms and suites are tiled.

Location:

Nestled in one of the most historic parts of Castries, Sandals Regency La Toc Golf Resort & Spa in St Lucia is one of the most luxurious resorts filled with adventure, romance and relaxation. Located roughly 70 minutes from St. Lucia’s international airport; helicopter transfers available to cut commute time to about 15 minutes

Fact Sheet:

All Inclusive
9 Onsite Dining Options
8 Bars/Lounges w/ 2 swim up bar
24hr Room Service is available for guests in Butler categories of accommodation and 7am to 10:00pm for Club Level categories of accommodation
Three (3) Freshwater pools, four (4) Whirlpools and one (1) Scuba Dive Pool On-site
Daily & Nightly Activities/Entertainment
24/7 Fitness Center with guided classes
Spa services available at Redlane Spa (extra charge)
Golf is included onsite at 2 different courses (18-Hole (par 71) & 9-Hole (par 33) available at Cap Estate Golf & Country Club)
Pro Shop
Semi-private beach
Water-sports and Scuba INCLUDED
Full exchange privileges with Sandals Halcyon Beach and Sandals Grande St. Lucian including complimentary transfers, giving access to 27 dining options (on hold due to COVID)

Resort Layout:

The Regency lays out with 5 different guest room areas; the Emerald Village (closest to the main pool and beach), Pitons Village (oceanview suites with sundecks), Honeymoon Hideaway (more private upgraded honeymoon suites), Sunset Bluffs Village (oceanview clifftop suites), and the Sunset Bluff Millionaire Suites (mega upgraded oceanview clifftop suites with butlers)

Notes on Tipping:

Entertainment Schedule:

Island Romance – Sundays
St. Lucian Night – Mondays
Caribbean Night – Tuesdays

Sandals Festival of the Arts – Wednesday
Divas of the Decade – Thursday
Love Hop & Chocolate Gala – Friday

Reggae Night – Saturday

*Subject to change

Included Water/Land Sports:

Outdoor games and activities including volleyball, horseshoes, chess, bocce ball, croquet, billiards, cards, giant jenga, golf putting, corn hole, horse shoe throwing, golf

Hobie Cats, Snorkeling, Kayaks, Paddleboards, Windsurfing. Scuba Diving available daily for Certified Divers. Discover Scuba Diving (DSD) and Certification also available for beginners at an additional fee.

Club Sandals VIP Status:

The Club Sandals Lounge is accessible between the hours of 8am – 10pm to assist with reservations for spas, excursions, restaurants and just about anything you need.
Preferred Club Sandals Lounge check-in with chilled towel and champagne.
Weekly hosted activities like a Cocktail party, a Martini Evening, Wine tasting, and more
In Room/Suite and Lounge bars with scotch, vodka, rum, whisky, wine, beer, juices, sodas and water.
Relax with a kindle in the Club Sandals Lounge, while enjoying mouthwatering culinary treats, anassortment of teas and world renowned Blue Mountain coffee, complimentary Wi-Fi suitable for e-mailing and browsing.

Bulter VIP Status:

Client Photos:

Resort Spotlight: Secrets Papagayo

Secrets Papagayo Costa Rica is an adults-only (18+), beachfront hotel located on the Gulf of Papagayo in the Guanacaste region of northwestern Costa Rica.

Located in the exclusive Gulf of Papagayo near the Marina Papagayo and Playas El Coco, with just a 20 minute drive from Liberia International Airport, Secrets Papagayo Costa Rica is a tranquil, intimate, and unforgettable place for a vacation of a lifetime.

View from Preferred Club Bungalow Suite Ocean Front

This adults-only hotel has access to two incredible beaches, plus the extensive Unlimited Luxury® program. Guests can enjoy one of the top 100 golf courses located outside the US, world-class sport fishing, Tamarindo Beach nightlife and the flora and fauna of Santa Rosa National Park just outside the hotel.

Fact Sheet:

7 Onsite “No Reservation” Restaurants
4 Bars/Lounges w/ 1 swim up bar
24 Hour Room Service (Temporarily available with limited hours)
2 Swimming Pools
Daily & Nightly Entertainment
Fitness Center
Tequila and Wine tastings
Movies on the Beach
Spa by Pevonia
Small Dogs Welcome
A shuttle runs 24/7 to take guests where they would like to go on the property; note that this property is VERY hilly
Complimentary Anniversary/Honeymoon Package
No Wrist Bands Required

Entertainment:

Theme nights: Karaoke, Black Jack, Musical Trivia, Costa Rica night and Live Music (subject to schedule)
Night Shows: Around the World, Beatles Tribute, Soul & Elements and Wild West (subject to schedule)
Weekly Manager’s cocktail party

Preferred Status (Secret’s VIP Status Upgrade):

Personalized check in and checkout with concierge service
Preferred status and amenities
Private Preferred Club Lounge
Upgraded mini-bar service and bath amenities
Daily continental breakfast service, afternoon hot and cold hors d’oeuvres, exquisite desserts & fine liquors served in Preferred Club Lounge
Complimentary newspaper in room everyday (available in English and Spanish)

Client Photos:

Resort Spotlight: Marquis Los Cabos

The Marquis Los Cabos Resort & Spa is an adults-only, all-inclusive resort on the southern tip of the Baja peninsula in Mexico’s own Los Cabos.

With incredible views of the Cortez Sea on one side and an expanse of desert on the other, a perfect balance is struck. Located in the exact spot where the ocean meets the desert, Marquis Los Cabos Resort & Spa is the ideal combination of adventure and relaxation. And can you say infinity pool?

Location:

Marquis Los Cabos’ prime location on the Touristic Corridor offers you easy access to the vibrant Cabo San Lucas’ nightlife. Los Cabos International Airport (SJD) is located 18 miles away from our resort.

Fact Sheet:

5 Onsite Dining Options (Canto del Mar Signature restaurant is not included in the all inclusive rate)
1 Oceanfront Bar
24 Hour Room Service
3 Swimming Pools including an oceanfront infinity pool
Marquis Wake Up – fresh pastries delivered each morning to pair perfectly with the in-suite Nespresso
Daily & Nightly Entertainment
Fitness Center
Coffee Deli
Spa services available at Spa Marquis
Director’s private collection of Latin American art throughout the resort
Tour desk onsite
Golf nearby (extra charge)
Private Casitas available with personal plunge pools

Marquis as a whole is inspired by the Sea of Cortez, whose waters sparkle just beyond every suite’s private balconies. The resort houses 235 suites as well as 25 private casitas featuring personal plunge pools. All suites are expansive and bright living spaces feature vibrant colors and contemporary decor.

Notes on Canto del Mar Signature Restaurant, Marquis’s 5 star a la carte dining option serving a four-course menu that showcases the best contemporary French cuisine with the local Los Cabos flavors. There is an additional fee per person for dining in this restaurant. Reservations are required at least 24 hours in advance.

Private Casitas:

Located directly at the front of the property, Marquis Los Cabos hosts 3 different styles of private casitas available under their all inclusive plan (Eden, Ocean View, & Oceanfront). All three styles feature a personal plunge pool (either a garden terrace plunge pool or a roof top sundeck with plunge pool), jetted bath tub, separate walk-in shower, and upgraded toiletries.

Eden Casita; photo courtesy of Travel Channel

Sustainability:

Water Desalination System – the resort has an onsite salt water desalination system that coverts 100% of the resorts water make makes Marquis a self sustainable resort
Sewage Treatment Plant – the resort houses two sewage treatment plants to improve the quality of disposed water and utilize it for activities that do not require potable water
Sea Turtle Program – Marquis works heavily with the staff of Sea Turtle Protection Network to protect mother turtles and hatchlings when they are born each summer
Energy Saving Schedules – the resort has schedules to make electrical consumption more efficient and reduce it’s usage
LED Lighting – all suites have LED lighting drastically reducing electrical consumption
Recycling Cooking Oil – cooking oil from all of the resort’s restaurants is collected and used to create biodiesel fuel

Client Photos:

Resort Spotlight: Sandals Halcyon Beach

Sandals, the name that couples die for and the biggest romance all inclusive brand in the Caribbean. Sandals Halcyon Beach is one of brand’s three resorts on the island of St. Lucia. Of the three, it holds the most boutique feel

Hidden inside the naturally beautiful landscape of Saint Lucia lies a secret garden filled with effervescent flowers, luscious palms and serene waters, where couples come to escape and fall in love all over again. A true beachfront resort, with the excitement of the Caribbean and the quietness of a deserted island making it a ‘Home away from Home.’

Kelly’s Dockside Over the Water Restaurant

The Resort stretches along 1039 feet of white sand beach. Rooms highlight true Caribbean architecture, all in 1 & 2 story buildings amidst a kaleidoscope of colors from the secluded and lush gardens.

The resort houses 169 rooms and ten [10] room categories occupying twenty-two [22] acres. All suites offer air conditioning, amenity kit, hair dryer, telephone, ceiling fan, private bath and shower, iPod docking station, cable TV, coffee & tea maker, safe deposit box, iron and ironing board. All Guest Rooms boast mahogany furnishing and tiled floors.

Location:

The Hewanorra International Airport [UVF] is roughly 40miles [1 hour 30 minutes] away. Helicopter transfers are available to cut commute time to about 15 minutes

Areal view from helicopter transfer via Island Routes

Fact Sheet:

All Inclusive
6 Onsite Dining Options
7 Bars/Lounges w/ swim up bar
24hr Room Service is available for guests in Butler categories of accommodation and 7am to 10:00pm for Club Level categories of accommodation
Two (2) Freshwater Pools, One (1) Saltwater Pool, three (3) Whirlpools & one (1) Scuba Dive Pool
Daily & Nightly Activities/Entertainment
24/7 Fitness Center with guided classes
Spa services available at Redlane Spa (extra charge)
Golf is included at 2 different courses (18-Hole (par 71) & 9-Hole (par 33) available at Cap Estate Golf & Country Club)
Semi-private beach
2 Lite Tennis Courts
Water-sports and Scuba INCLUDED
Full exchange privileges with Sandals Regency la Toc and Sandals Grande St. Lucian including complimentary transfers, giving access to 27 dining options (on hold due to COVID)

Resort Layout:

Halcyon is comprised of three different areas for guest rooms; the Caribbean Village (some oceanfront rooms with most rooms closer to the main pool), the Beachfront Village (rooms closest to the beach), and the Honeymoon Hideaway Village (more private area with upgraded rooms and designated pool)

Entertainment Schedule:

Island Romance – Sundays
St. Lucian Night – Mondays
Sandals Festival of the Arts – Tuesdays

Beach Party- Wednesdays

Island Night – Thursdays

White Night & Chocolate Buffet – Fridays

Reggae Night – Saturdays

*Subject to change

Included Water/Land Sports:

Volleyball, Chess, Pool, Board Games, Tennis, Table Tennis, Croquet, Shuffleboard, Golf

Kayaks, Hobie Cats, Snorkeling, Tubing, Knee boarding, Waterskiing, Wakeboarding, Windsurfing, Paddleboards. Scuba Diving available daily for Certified Divers. Discover Scuba Diving (DSD) and Certification also available for beginners at an additional fee.

Club Sandals VIP Status:

The Club Sandals Lounge is accessible between the hours of 8am – 10pm to assist with reservations for spas, excursions, restaurants and just about anything you need.
Preferred Club Sandals Lounge check-in with chilled towel and champagne.
Weekly hosted activities like a Cocktail party, a Martini Evening, Wine tasting, and more
In Room/Suite and Lounge bars with scotch, vodka, rum, whisky, wine, beer, juices, sodas and water.
Relax with a kindle in the Club Sandals Lounge, while enjoying mouthwatering culinary treats, an assortment of teas and world renowned Blue Mountain coffee, complimentary Wi-Fi suitable for e-mailing and browsing.

Bulter VIP Status:

Honeymoon Butler Room with Private Pool Sanctuary

This property is truly an intimate adults only haven offering guests countless activities and amenities while also allowing time to connect with your loved on. Most suites offer large outdoor soaking tubs or even private pools (pictured above)

Notes on Tipping:

Client Photos:

Resort Spotlight: Nayara Costa Rica

Nayara Costa Rica is one of the most luxurious brands in the shadow Arenal Volcano in La Fortuna Costa Rica. The resort complex is comprised of three distinct resorts; Nayara Garden, Nayara Springs (adults only), and Nayara Tented Camp. Nayara Tented Camp, the newest edition to the brand, was just awarded Travel & Leisure’s No2 hotel in the world. Below you will find a few notes on each resort:

Nayara Gardens (family friendly):

Nayara Gardens is a five-star luxury boutique hotel that is frequently recognized for providing premium luxury amenities and ultra-personalized service to couples and families spending their vacation in La Fortuna. It was recently named No 33 Hotel in the world on Travel & Leisure’s 2021 edition.

The resort features 50 spacious casitas (bungalows) provides an exclusive, ultra-luxurious retreat all while being surrounded by lush tropical rainforest. Each expansive casita (ranging from 855 to 1905 square feet) includes a secluded garden with an outdoor shower and a beautiful terrace overlooking the volcano with a private, intimate Jacuzzi for two.

Nayara Garden Amenities:

Mi Cafecito Espresso Bar
Kali Kali Kid Friendly Swim-up Bar
La Terraza Del Arenal Restaurant (International)
Asia Luna Restaurant (Latin & Asian Fusion)
Nostalgia Wine Bar
Exchange Privileges at Nayara Tented Camp & Nayara Springs (adults only)

La Terraza Del Arenal – photo via Nayara Resorts

Nayara Springs (adults only):

Nayara Springs is comprised of 35 villas, all over 1,500 square feet of pure luxury, romance, and privacy. Each villa houses a private plunge pool fed by water directly from the volcano, some of the purest in the world. The villas include complimentary breakfast, minibar, laundry, daily yoga classes, and your very own personal host for the entirety of your stay.

Nayara Springs also has its own coffee bar; the coffee is a Nayara Signature that can only be found on the property. Guests can also enjoy our open-air yoga pavilion or work on their fitness at our new state-of-the-art-gym. Nayara Springs is connected by two footbridges perched 150 feet high, above the rainforest canopy to it’s sister properties Nayara Gardens & Tented Camp.

Nayara Springs Amenities:

MIS AMORES Restaurant (signature fine dining)
Amor Loco Restaurant (Costa Rican cuisine)
Besame Mucho Restaurant (romanic private dining experience)
Cielito Lindo Swim-up Bar
Tropical Gardens
Perezoso Sloth Sanctuary
Exchange Privileges at Nayara Gardens & Nayara Tented Camp

Nayara Tented Camp (family friendly):

Nayara Tented Camp is the newest edition to the Nayara complex in La Fortuna and recently named No 2 Hotel in the world on Travel & Leisure’s 2021 edition. It features 21 luxury tents; 12 of them will be mirror image tents linked together to create a spectacular two bedroom unit that can accommodate two couples or a couple and four children.

The most exciting part of the camp are the private tents; set high on the hill and with spectacular views of the Arenal Volcano. Each spacious tent was built on stilts to leave a minimal footprint. The experience is secluded and romantic for couples, or fun and educational for the whole family. The idea for tents was originally inspired by African safari camps but conceived in the tropical Costa Rican rainforest, the tents are a mix of sustainable luxury with a “Pura Vida” vibe. All luxury air-conditioned tents feature signature plunge pools with water fed from the volcano, large soaking indoor tubs, and outdoor showers with views of the star. This resort is truly glamping at it’s finest.

Nayara Tented Camp Amenities:

Onsite Restaurant* Coming Soon
Onsite Lounge* Coming Soon
Exchange Privileges at Nayara Tented Camp & Nayara Springs (adults only)

Daily Breakfast View – photo via Nayara Resorts

Nayara Complex Amenities (all three properties):

Daily Breakfast
Nightly Frog Watching Walks
Morning Bird Watching Walks
Private Romantic Dinners
Mixology Classes
Coffee Roasting Experience
Secluded Heated Pool w/ Volcano Views
Volcanic Mineral Hot Springs
In House Rainforest Guides & Naturalists – Nayara’s grounds have resident monkeys, sloths, tropical birds, and tree frogs
Daily yoga
Onsite Hanging Bridges
Resort Transport via golf cart
Live Nightly Music
Unwind Spa* (extra charge)
Tour Desk w/ Offsite Excursions* (extra charge)

Client Photos:

Resort Review: Excellence Riviera Maya

Excellence Riviera Cancun is an all-inclusive, adults-only, luxury resort, located in Riviera Maya just 20-30 minutes from Cancun International. This resort is the Excellence´s most long-standing favorite among repeat customers in Mexico, and is always a leader in destination

Bordered by sugar-white beaches and the crystal clear Caribbean Sea, this tropical oasis embraces beauty and splendor, perfect for a romantically secluded getaway. Guests will LOVE their spacious accommodations with each suite having at least one Jacuzzi, marble bathroom and a wealth of first-rate amenities; the perfect escape for couples seeking a vacation in romantic bliss.

The Excellence is one of my ‘go-to’ options from honeymooners to 20th anniversary celebrations and even groups of couples traveling together. The grounds are something out of a fairy tale – garden goals for days

Fact Sheet:

9 Onsite Dining Options – Reservations are encouraged
12 Bars/Lounges w/ swim up bar
Outdoor Pizza Oven available poolside
Piano Bar
Theatre
Cigar Bar/Humidor Room
24 Hour Room Service
6 Swimming Pools, Lazy River, and 5 Outdoor Jacuzzis
Daily & Nightly Entertainment
Fitness Center
Coffee Bar
Tour Desk
Spa services available at Award Winning Miile Spa
Wedding Gazebo

Excellence Club Status (VIP Status Upgrade):

*All Excellence Club suites offer impressive ocean views as well as indoor and outdoor Jacuzzis. This upgrade is 100% worth it!

Private check-in & check-out / Late check-out & early check-in (subject to availability)
Private concierge service (7am to 11pm)
Private lounge (7am to 11pm) with free Internet access, smart buffets & bar service Bvlgari toiletries
Upgraded minibar & room service menu
Upgraded in-suite premium liquor & wine bottle selection
Nespresso coffee machine
Exclusive pool and whirlpool at the pool area
Private beach area
Complementary beach bag for use during your stay
Shoe shine service
Daily fruit & petit fours in suite
Fresh flowers and sparkling wine in suite upon arrival
One Aqua Wellness treatment per person per stay

Site Visit Photos:

I visited the Excellence back in May with a group of 15 and we had a BLAST – resort photos below

Resort Review: Tamarindo Diria

Tamarindo Diria Hotel is a luxurious Four Star Hotel located right on the beach of the vibrant surf town of Tamarindo. I spent 4 nights here and can testify that The Diria truly embodies the history and culture of Costa Rica.

The resort is broken into four areas; the Sunset Rooms located beachside, the Tropicana Rooms located across the street and closest to the resort’s two main pools, the multi bedroom condos that rise above the Tropicana section, and the neighboring boutique sister property that is adult’s only. Special note, the Diria is great for groups and even has a private group lounge for checkin

That being said, the majority of the Diria’s rooms have incredible ocean and sunset views with direct frontage and access to Tamarindo Beach. Night lights decorating the gardens and walkways will further enhance the beauty of local flora and fauna creating an atmosphere of tranquility and peace. The main beachfront restaurant is something out of a movie scene and features a giant Matapalo tree adorned with stained glass lamps that light up at sunset.

The Diria is a testament to hospitality in Costa Rica and is one of its oldest and most iconic resorts with over 35 years of experience, establishing itself as one of the most successful hotel operations in Tamarindo.

Tamarindo is 1 hour from Liberia International Airport; 5 hours from Juan Santamaria International Airport by land and 45 minutes by air.

Fact Sheet:

5 Onsite Dining Options
Gelato Bar
4 Bars/Lounges w/ swim up bar AND a beachfront bar
Onsite Casino
3 Pools: Beachfront Pool, Kids Pool, Tropical/Quiet Pool
Cold Jacuzzi
Kids Club ages 4-10
Onsite Spa Treatments Available
Onsite Fitness Center
Onsite Tour Desk
Wedding Services Available

Notes on Inclusions (this is not an all inclusive resort):

Access to the largest pools in Tamarindo & resort grounds
Access to beachfront loungers just inside the resort grounds to avoid the public beach
Daily beach towel rentals
Daily breakfast at The Diria Restaurant on the beach
Access to the Diria’s Commercial Zone (notes below)
Kids Club access (seasonal)
Complimentary Wifi
Resident Howler Monkeys (not really an inclusion but they live in the trees above the Kids Pool)

Notes on the Diria’s Commercial Zone:

The commercial shopping center was specifically designed by the Diria Group for the enjoyment of their hotel guests. Each shop is unique and offers a variety of options that embody the culture of Costa Rica. Located just outside the lobby, this shopping plaza features a variety of clothing shops, international restaurants and cafes, a jewelry boutique, art galleries, a jazz casino, local handicrafts, a dive and surf center, a pharmacy, a spa and a bank – all for the convenience of hotel guests.

Notes on Tamarindo:

The town of Tamarindo is a quite colorful surfer’s paradise with plenty of local ‘Tico’ flavor. A multi-cultural community, Tamarindo boasts several bakeries, coffee shops, an outdoor vegetable market, and more than 40 restaurants and bars. Whether you like to eat vegetarian, ‘Tipico’ Costa Rican, Italian or seafood, you’ll find amazing eats all throughout Tamarindo.

Additional offerings include art galleries, a pottery stores and countless surf shops/boutiques. It is an ideal place for honeymoons and weddings, couples and families looking for a more laid-back destination, and wonderfully suited to eco-adventures. Tamarindo offers first class sport fishing (see Mahi photos below), sailing, surfing, golfing, ATV tours, turtle watching, diving, horseback riding, canopy tours and jungle boat rides.

Notes on the Beaches:

The beach is a two-mile stretch of white sand and warm Pacific blue water that is absolutely breathtaking; that being said, it is also a public beach. If you are unfamiliar with public beaches in countries outside of the US; this should read ‘there will be beach venders EVERYWHERE’. I did not experience anyone that was super pushy or made me feel uncomfortable, but just be aware that Tamarindo does not have any private beaches.

In addition to beaches, Tamarindo is surrounded by National Parks to its north and south, and mountains with breathtaking views to its east. Nature is abundant, leatherback turtles lay their eggs in the northern part of the bay. In some restaurants giant iguanas will come up to your table expecting table scraps.

Walter’s Tamarindo – they cooked our Mahi Mahi onsite

4 Star Resort Category Notes:

I want to highlight, this is a four star resort and not the same as the 5 star resorts I typically sell and visit. For my clients who are used to 5 stars, the Diria might not be for you. That being said, there is absolutely nothing wrong with this resort and I LOVED my stay here and would absolutely stay again. Expectations are everything and this is in fact a resort review, so here are some things you might find different from the 5 star luxury experience:

The hot water didn’t reach blazing hot temperatures in our room and some days it was pretty chilly. This is something that is more common in other countries and was manageable for us but worth mentioning.
There is not 24 hour room service available but dining options are open late night, you just have to trek downstairs and pick it up yourself.
Breakfast does not include a waiter/waitress table side; you have staff throughout the breakfast restaurant but no one will be visiting your table so if you need something you’ll have to jump up and grab it.
There are not ‘towel boys’ around the pools taking orders and handing out towels for guests. Again, if you want either you’ll have to walk to the bar/towel desk to grab it yourself
This resort is owned by a German family, most rooms feature double beds instead of 1 king bed (not really 4 vs 5 but something to note)

Site Visit Photos: