ANDAZ COSTA RICA – Peninsula Papagayo

THE BACKGROUND: A Hyatt property, this luxury resort has been designed to capture the native spirit of Costa Rica with low-impact eco-architecture and distinctive ‘Pura Vida’ (pure life) philosophy and many local touches. THE LOCATION: A 25-minute drive from Liberia Airport, the 153-room resort is set within the immaculate grounds of the purpose-built resort peninsula. Every room has stunning views of the ocean across a calm, expansive bay.

THE ROOM: Bright and contemporary, the highlight of my room was the balcony complete with sofa, ceiling fan and fabulous view. The floor-to-ceiling fold-back doors extend to the bathroom so the walk-in rainforest shower can be open to the view too. Complimentary extras include flip-flops and sunhat, wi-fi, snacks and soft drinks minibar (refreshed daily) and top-end toiletries.

KEY F ACILI TI E S: There are two pool areas (one for adults only which is regularly visited by wild white-faced monkeys) and two private beaches with complimentary watersports. A 15-minute shuttle ride connects to a further beach and the Beach House restaurant, sun loungers (with waiter service) and watersports. There is also a kids’ club, laundry service and the beautiful Onda spa, plus a range of daily activities from mixology or cerviche classes to guided hikes and kayak tours. RESTAURANTS/BARS: The three restaurants each have a Latin vibe and include the open-air Rio Bhongo, serving lavish breakfasts and international cuisine all day; Chao Pescao serving local tapas; and the high-end Ostra, where seafood and the local cerviche are the speciality.

Address: Peninsula Papagoya Guanacaste, Costa Rica; andazpapagayo.com; +506 2690 1234; gscenter.papagayo@andaz.com