Resort Review: Tabacon Thermal Resort & Spa

After staying at Tabacon Thermal Resort this past month; I have a whole new appreciation for 5 star luxury! If you want to feel like you are in the middle of a hot spring deep in the rainforest all the while being pampered and served craft cocktails in the shadow of an active volcano; this is the spot for you!

Tabacon Thermal Resort – Early Entry Hours

Tabacon Thermal Resort & Spa is located in La Fortuna de San Carlos, in the middle of the rainforest. This unique 103-room Costa Rican property offers luxurious accommodations, an award-winning spa and friendly service in a magnificent tropical environment near the base of Arenal Volcano.

The resort is situated in a lush setting with twelve natural hot spring pools and lagoons, thermal pools, exotic gardens and trails with daily shuttle access from the resort rooms. All pools are directly heated from Arenal Volcano and all hot water onsite (even in the guest rooms) is also heated by the volcano. An additional heated pool is also available to resort guests only.

Orchid Room Patio View

Dining is open-air and includes an option for a signature gala dinner in a private rainforest bungalow with private chef and server. Decor throughout the resort showcases art and furniture designed and crafted by Central American artisans. 2 restaurants are onsite as well as various bars including a infusions cocktail bar

Cana Brava Infusions Bar

Tabacon Thermal Resort & Spa is located 2.5 hrs. from the Daniel Oduber International Airport (LIR) in Liberia, Guanacaste and 3.5 hrs. from the Juan Santamaria International Airport (SJO) in San Jose. The resort can arrange private transfer from either airport.

Fact Sheet:

  • 2 Onsite Dining Options
  • Optional Private Dining feat. Personal Rainforest Bungalow & Personal Chef
  • 3 Bars/Lounges w/ swim up bar AND infusions mixology bar
  • 24 Hour Room Service
  • Daily & Nightly Access to 12 onsite thermal pools heated by Arenal Volcano
  • Shangri-La Gardens (adults only area within the thermal springs)
  • 1 Resort Swimming Pool
  • Onsite Spa w/ 10 Treatment Rooms
  • Onsite Fitness Center
  • Onsite Tour Desk
  • Plant a Tree Initiative
Tabacon Thermal Pools

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

  • In addition to the resort’s two pools, guests enjoy unlimited access to Tabacon Hot Springs during their stay
  • Resort guests are allowed to visited the hot springs 1 hour early and stay 1 hour later than daily guests
  • Resort guests are allowed access to the hot springs Shangri-La Gardens, an adults only haven within the hot springs only available to resort guests
  • Daily breakfast at Los Tucanes
  • Thermal robes and slippers throughout stay
  • Plant a tree initiative
  • Shuttle service to hot springs 
Tabacon Thermal Springs – After Hours

Notes on Signature Gala Dinner:

One of Tabacon’s signature services is a candlelight dinner, sure to be a memorable experience for couples sharing a romantic vacation. Perfect for honeymoons or anniversaries, this extremely personalized service is a unique opportunity to experience dinner in a glorious natural setting. The new private bungalows located in the botanical gardens, nestled on the edge of the rainforest, with streams of hot springs running on either side and open on three sides to take in the views of the verdant gardens and forest, provide a unique ambience. Your dinner will be served at a magnificently set table for two with private chef and waiter, among lighted torches, making an unforgettable romantic moment

Los Tucanes Restaurant

Notes on the Plant a Tree Initiative:

Tabacon has developed various programs and sustainable tourism practices to take care of the environment; one of their most popular is the Plant a Tree Initiative.

All guests staying at the resort are invited to plant one almond tree per guest on the property during their stay with supervision of the garden staff. The saplings are tagged and registered to guests so that they can check on their progress when they return for their next vacation. The entire activity takes about 20-30 minutes and is oh so rewarding!

Tabacon’s Plant a Tree Initiative

Through this initiative, Tabacon reported that they have planted over 3,000 trees so far! Famous celebrities (check their website for more info) have since stayed at the property so that they can plant trees in Costa Rica’s secondary rainforest and leave their mark on the regeneration of these beautiful forests! Of course we had to plant our trees as well and plan to visit them in a few years to see their growth

Almond Tree Saplings (#2169 and #2170)

Sample Activities in the Area:

  • Hanging Bridges – allows visitors to experience the rainforest from three perspectives; plus magnificent views of the Arenal Volcano complement this memorable hike through the heart of the rainforest
Hanging Bridges Park
  • Canyoning Tour – if you enjoy waterfalls and a bit of adventure, the Canyoning Tour is perfect for you. You will experience the thrill of rappelling down a high waterfall, using professional equipment and aided by an experienced guide.
  • Hike to Arenal Volcano – observe the exotic inhabitants of Arenal National Park, see paths of lava, cross a stream and, if conditions permit, you may catch a glimpse of showering bright volcanic rocks.
Arenal Volcano Old Lava Fields
  • Safari Float – White Water Rafting Class II expedition is perfect for families with children ages 6 to 13
  • Rafting – This is the tour for those who like action and adrenaline sports. Get to know the area’s wildest and most exuberant rivers
  • Cano Negro Boat Tour – This visit to the Cano Negro Refuge is designed for true wildlife lovers. Iguanas, sloths, 40 bird species, caimans, turtles, alligators, bats and monkeys greet you in their natural habitat
  • Don Juan’s Coffee & Chocolate Plantation – visit a working chocolate plantation to discover the process from bean to coffee/chocolate. Samples included throughout
Sloth Siting at Don Juan’s Chocolate Plantation

Site Visit Photos:

Resort Review: W Reserva Conchal

Oh my goodness this resort is heart eyes for days! Hidden amongst the mangroves of Guanacaste, W Costa Rica – Reserva Conchal is a modern oasis surrounded by exotic landscapes and the sugar-white sands of Playa Conchal.

Inspired by the vibrant culture of Guanacaste, the W’s design is something straight out of Avatar. All suites host panoramic views of the resort grounds from some of the plushest beds you’ve slept in. Some suites feature private plunge pools that can host floating breakfast trays – I’m looking at you influencers

After an action-packed day of golfing, surfing or sunbathing, retreat to the onsite resort spa, AWAY® which has a host of traditional Costa Rican treatments. Indulge in an array of dining options at one of our many hotel restaurants before dancing the night away at the onsite beach club, Zona Azul.

Whether you’re an exotic explorer or a luxury lover, expect an unparalleled stay at W Costa Rica – Reserva Conchal. All I can say is that we were BLOWN AWAY!

W Reserva Conchal

Fact Sheet:

  • 5 Onsite Dining Options
  • LATITUD 10° NORTE features a 7-course tasting menu
  • 3 Bars/Lounges w/ swim up bar AND mixology bar
  • 24 Hour Room Service
  • 2 Swimming Pools including in the forest infinity pool (adults only) and beachside club pool
  • Daily & Nightly Activities/Entertainment 
  • Fitness Center
  • Coffee Bar
  • Spa services available at AWAY Spa
  • 18-Hole Golf Course designed by Robert Trent Jones II
  • Zip Line from the Living Room to the Beachclub
  • Beach-style [Night]club
  • Semi-private beach (this is huge for Costa Rica)
  • Pets are WELCOME
  • All Inclusive ADD ON is available***
Zona Azul Beach Club

All 150 rooms and suites boats sweeping views of the Pacific and Playa Concha and every space hosts a private balcony, marble bathroom, and a MixBar.

We stayed in the Ocean View Suite and were blown away by the view! The shower, while covered with a privacy screen, faces the ocean and has an entire wall of glass so that you can look at the waves the entire time.

Another awesome note about guests rooms, all of them house local details like hand-painted indigenous patterns, nature-inspired headboards and surfboard bar tops

OceanView Suite

Notes on LATITUD 10° NORTE:

Latitud 10 boasts bold culinary ideas and flavors brought to you by Chef Julio Valdivia. The 7-course tasting menu changes nightly between sampling some of the latest trends in Costa Rica flavors and highlighting flavor pairings from the words 7 Blue Zones

Blue Zones are areas throughout the world were residents are healthiest and happiest overall and are fascinating to read up on. We chose to sample the tasting menu highlighting the Blue Zones combo’d with the cocktail menu and it did not disappoint! Full menu below:

LATITUD 10° NORTE 7-Course Tasting Menu

Site Visit Photos:

LATITUD 10° NORTE Tasting Menu:

What to Pack for My All Inclusive Vacay

When it comes to packing for an all-inclusive vacation, I’d like to think I’ve got it completely covered

Over the years of traveling to different countries, climates, and resorts I’ve slowly learned which items have earned a place in my suitcase and which items are better left at home

Packing for your long over due all-inclusive vacation is exciting and can help reduce stress leading up to a trip by getting your excited prior to boarding your plane.

However, more times than not, my clients overestimate what they really need to bring along, or forget some of the more important, unexpected extras that can end up costing them big time when resorts inflate the price tag.

Below you’ll find my suggestions on the must have items as well as a few to forgo AND a printable packing list you can download to track your progress

*this post contains affiliate links where I earn compensation when you click and purchase through the links at absolutely no extra cost to you. 

Atelier – Playa Mujeres

What to pack in your carry on

  • Passport
  • Required Documents (Travel Docs, COVID Docs, Vaccination Card, Health Applications, Insurance Info – I send detailed information out on this about 15 days prior to my clients departure date)
  • Cash for tipping – I recommend small bills
  • Credit/Debit Card
  • Reusable water bottle – Avana is my all time favorite
  • Any valuables – I typically recommend keeping these out of checked luggage
  • Travel Pillow or TikTok famous Neck Support Scarf
  • Power bank
  • Travel adapter (depending on where you’re going! If you’re coming from Canada or USA, you do not need one for Mexico.)
  • Headphones, either noise cancelling (great for flights) or bluetooth ear buds for the pool or beach
  • Travel jewelry case (this is a lifesaver ladies)
  • Swimsuit wet bag for the trip home (example below)

  • Medication
  • Books (or Kindle) – I like turning pages but the Kindle Paperwhite has an anti-glare screen and barely takes up any space in the suitcase
  • Hand sanitizer 
  • Charging cables
  • Masks (these are some of the best travel masks I’ve found)

REMEMBER any liquids packed in you carry on bag must not be more than 100 ml each. If you want to make sure everything is the correct allowance; I recommend grabbing a travel bottle set.

TA ProTip: if you plan on checking a suitcase, pack enough clothing in your carry-on. This way it’s easy to change once you arrive at the resort if your room isn’t ready. Additionally, in the event your suitcase is delayed, at least you’ll have a fresh change of clothes (and your swimsuit!)

My secret to carry-on travel? Packing cubes! They are amazing and it’s so incredible how much more you can fit into your suitcase when using these! I never travel without them! The below starter set has 7 pieces that can be used for carry on and checked luggage.

What to pack in your checked luggage

  • Shorts
  • Tank tops/t-shirts
  • Day dresses
  • Dressy sandals for evening
  • Evening wear – most resorts have a dress code for evenings; if you are unsure I would consult your resorts website. This especially applies to men – usually no open-toed shoes, and men must wear long pants and collared shirts. As a rule of thumb, I bring 4 dresses for a 7 night stay, and two pairs of shoes that go with either outfit.
  • Active wear – if you plan on doing any day trips, or working out.
  • A light sweater – I tend to wear this on the plane
  • Undergarments (including socks)
  • For women – sticky bras or petals 
  • Mini Steamer – is it extra? Yes. Is it worth it? Also, yes.
  • Sun hat
  • Flip Flops/Sandals
  • Cover-up
  • Swimsuits
  • Sunglasses – I usually bring two in case one pair ends up in the ocean
  • Beach bag – this one is easily packable

  • Sunscreen – much cheaper to buy ahead of time than at the resort
  • Reef safe sunscreen – if you’re planning on snorkeling; its a good idea to pack this instead to protect the delicate ecosystems. If you don’t bring your own then you may be required to purchase some on a tour, which can be expensive
  • Lip sunscreen
  • Tumbler/Insulted Cup – not really a necessity, but it is eco-conscious and keeps your drinks from melting by the pool
  • Aloe vera
  • Insect repellant – I cannot stress this enough
  • Hair ties and bobby pins
  • Deodorant
  • Feminine hygiene products & contraceptives
  • Razor and shaving cream
  • Makeup remover
  • Makeup
  • Tide stick
  • Toothbrush, floss, and toothpaste
  • Hair brush and styling tools

What NOT to pack

  • Towels – you’ll even be given a towel card or will have free access to towels throughout the resort for the beach and pool
  • Pillows – some resorts, even have their own pillow menus
  • A hair dryer – they are in the room
  • Shampoo, lotion, body wash, etc. – resorts will provide this unless you want your specific brands

Downloadable Packing List

Of course, this is not an all encompassing list and every trip is unique. Use your best judgment with your packing list. No matter what, don’t stress too much – this is your vacay after all. Happy traveling everyone!

Resort Review: Atelier Playa Mujeres

Atelier Playa Mujeres is a 5-star, all-inclusive, adults-only resort located in Playa Mujeres about 40 minutes north of Cancun International.

View from Jr. Suite Ocean View

Spend quality time with a group of friends or your special someone without the distractions of worrying about kiddos or keeping up with the stress of everyday life.

Inspira Welcome Package

This resort offers a variety of dining and drinking options as well as facilities where guests can relax and have fun while rediscovering the art of vacationing surrounded by natural beauty and captivating art pieces from local artists

Los Abrazzos Restaurant

Out of all of the resorts I’ve visited in Cancun and surrounding areas, the Atelier’s service, food, and grounds far surpass most other five start resort options!

View from Main Lobby

Fact Sheet:

  • 9 Onsite “No Reservation” Dining Options
  • 8 Bars/Lounges w/ swim up bar AND mixology bar
  • Wellness/Juice Bar
  • 24 Hour Room Service
  • 2 Swimming Pools including rooftop INSPIRA infinity pool & 1 outdoor whirlpool
  • Daily & Nightly Entertainment 
  • 6 Elevators
  • 24/7 Fitness Center with Technogym® training equipment
  • Coffee Bar
  • Spa services available at NUUP SPA
  • 18-Hole Golf Course designed by Greg Norman
  • Art Walk
  • Theatre & Nightclub
  • Nonmotorized water sports included; motorized water sports are an extra charge
  • Pets are WELCOME
Lunch at El Suspiro

As part of the ATELIER Artist Service® all guests will enjoy:
• Total-Rest Beds® that ensure a revitalizing and invigorating rest, complemented with pillow menu and top-quality bed sheets
• Chill-out Bath® concept that includes a luxurious bathroom with double sink and tub, rain shower with marble accents, Molton Brown bath amenities, vanity mirrors and bath robes in each room
• Bar restocked daily with water and refreshing drinks, beers, tea and Mexican coffee
• 24-Hour room service available throughout the stay
• Pool Concierge with towel assistance
• High-Speed Wi-fi throughout the resort

View from Inspira Rooftop Suite Terrace Hot Tub

Inspira Status (Ateliers VIP Status Upgrade):

  • Upgraded In Suite Bar, with premium Whisky, Tequila, Vodka, Rum, and Champagne
  • Pillows Menu
  • INSPIRA Gourmet, upgraded room service menu
  • In-Suite Scent Menu
  • INSPIRA Lounge, an exclusive area to relax and enjoy gourmet snacks, coffee, and top-shelf beverages
  • INSPIRA Beach, an exclusive section on the beach with towel service and a menu of sunscreens and bronzers
  • INSPIRA Pool, exclusive daytime access for guests to the infinity pool at El Cielo Sky Bar on the fifth floor of the resort with a spectacular ocean view and automatic heating systems
  • INSPIRA Concierge for special requests and assistance
  • The first dinner is free at María Dolores by Edgar Nuñez 
  • Free Hydrotherapy Session at NUUP Spa Playa Mujeres
  • For every period of 7 paid nights during your stay in any INSPIRA Suite, 2 rounds of golf at the Playa Mujeres Golf Club are included
  • Select discounts on additional golf rounds, spa, onsite store, movie rentals, etc
INSPIRA Sky Lounge Infinite Pool

Notes on Maria Dolores, the Atelier’s 5 star a la carte dining option serving a seven-course dinner and fine wine pairings
ATELIER SUITES : Maria Dolores Restaurant is included for stays 7 nights and over. Stays under 7 nights are subject to availability and have 50% discount on the menu prices.
INSPIRA SUITES: Restaurant Maria Dolores is included, no minimum stay required

Maria Dolores Winter Menu

Site Visit Photos:

 

Resort Spotlight: Secrets Aura Cozumel, Mexico

Secrets Aura Cozumel is an all-inclusive, adult-only (18+), couples-only resort, located along the beautiful shores of Cozumel, one of the largest islands off the coast of the Yucatan Peninsula.

This resort’s Unlimited-Luxury® concept is created to deliver a superior standard of service; with unique accommodations including oceanfront and swim up rooms, and delicious cuisine and entertainment. There is never a dull moment with Secrets Aura Cozumel.

More than just a place to unwind, Secrets Aura Cozumel offers a stylishly contemporary environment for guests accustomed to only the best.

Beachfront View

Fact Sheet:

  • 6 Onsite “No Reservation” Restaurants
  • 5 Bars/Lounges w/ swim up bar
  • 24 Hour Room Service
  • 3 Swimming Pools
  • Lazy River w/ water slide
  • Daily & Nightly Entertainment
  • Fitness Center
  • Onsite Dive Shop
  • Spa by Pevonia
  • Priority reservations for tee times at Cozumel Country Club
  • Last Renovated in 2012
Spa by Pevonia

Local Points of Interest


• Mesoamerican Barrier Reef System – boasts 200% visibility. Just minutes away by boat, offers diving and scuba for all levels.
• Chankanaab National Marine Park – part of protective lands for native flora, fauna and marine life on the west coast of Cozumel. Just six miles from the resort
• San Miguel – downtown area of Cozumel is one of the most popular sites on the island. Located nine miles from the resort, the town is perfect for seeing the sites and indulging in great shopping and local cuisine.
• San Gervasio – The ruins of San Gervasio are a beautiful site, located 17 miles from the resort. Experience history and visit this Mayan archeological site.
• Punta Sur National Ecological Park – Located 12 miles from the resort, Punta Sur National Ecological Park showcases a beautiful nature reserve with a mixture of excitement, history and wonder. Explore the natural side of Cozumel for the day.  

Getting There:

From Cozumel Airport: 20 minutes from the Cozumel airport via private transfer. From Cancun: car transfer to Cancun Marina, ferry ride from Marina to Cozumel, golf cart transfer from Marina to Secrets

Main Beach

Preferred Status (Secret’s VIP Status Upgrade)

  • Personalized check-in and checkout with concierge service
  • Preferred status and amenities
  • Private Preferred Club Lounge, pool and swim-up bar
  • Upgraded mini-bar service and bath amenities
  • Complimentary computer access in Preferred Club Lounge
  • Daily continental breakfast service, afternoon hot and cold hors d’oeuvres, and exquisite desserts & fine liquors served in the lounge
  • Complimentary newspaper in room every day (English and Spanish)
Preferred Club Swim-Up Bar

Client Photos:

Welcome All!

Welcome all to Travel Aesthetic’s brand new website!

In an effort to provide our clients with a one stop shop for info on our planning process, types of trips offers, travel inspiration, resort highlights, and more; our website is born

Exploring this website should serve as your first step in planning your next vacay!

Browse through the options above on the navigation bar and once you’ve got a grasp on the services we offer, hit the “Let’s Start Planning” button above or anywhere throughout the site and fill out a contact form.

From there, we will reach out to you for an initial consultation!

Looking forward to planning your next dream trip!

-Morgan, Travel Aesthetic Owner & Founder