IF YOU HAVEN’T, YOU SHOULD Destination Pura Vida, The Peninsula Papagayo

By Margaret Bastick Luce

We arrived for our yearly sojourn to Costa Rica with our children. They love connecting with the locals, broadening their experiences, and making new friends. Our intentional choice for our stay was the majestic Peninsula Papagayo. The property is situated on Costa Rica’s north Pacific coast, a mere thirty minutes from Guanacaste Airport. The raw land, beautiful California vibe, clean water, fresh air, and people who personify Pura Vida, pure life, prompted near-immediate relaxation! The Peninsula Papagayo offers an inviting backdrop that will satiate a range of visitors. You can go as luxury as you want while taking in the incredible landscape and culture.

Whether you are planning a destination wedding, a winter break family trip, an immersive ecotourism holiday, or, need rejuvenation, Costa Rica and this hotel provide it all. Peninsula Papagayo shares that the property is set on “1,400 acres of natural wonders nearly surrounded in sapphire waters, wrapped in a cultural mosaic of astonishing beauty and biodiversity.” My personal favorites are long morning walks, a dip in the water, and ziplining at Witch’s Rock also known as Roca Bruja to the wonderful locals. And, those who know me well understand my commitment to well-being, fueling my body and brain with the healthiest of foods. Rest assured, Costa Rica is a haven of fresh and nourishing food.

A nature lover’s paradise less than a three-hour flight from Miami where you can hike, paddle, pedal, snorkel or surf any time of the day. A far departure from the bustling and juggling of daily life at home. Your body, mind, and soul will be elated that you have provided time to slow down the doing and immerse in experiencing. As I continue to learn about what benefits my well-being, the visceral impact of physical exertion in the right doses and ways coupled with nutrient-rich foods allows me to release stress and rejuvenate.

If you yearn for tropical breezes, no pretense, joy, and natural beauty everywhere you turn, create space in your calendar, and invite your family and friends to this Central American country with a gem of a resort. And, the Four Seasons Peninsula Papagayo is located less than five hours from most major metro areas in the United States.

If you haven’t, you should bask in the warmth of the people, get out and explore, and remember to breathe in the air of this special place.

Margaret Bastick Luce | IG @margaretbastickluce