Santa Teresa, the perfect winter escape
The perfect getaway is possible when living that Pura Vida experience. All the way form Canada, Costa Rica became once again the ideal winter escape
When living in Toronto and it hits -20 degrees you know it's time to pack a bag and get going. In my case, I naturally look down to Costa Rica, my home, and a place that I still have much to discover. I decided to fly off to Santa Teresa beach for the first time... a beautiful beach town dedicated to wellness and luxury lifestyle. And with lots of adventure and nature tours (which I didn't do... WOOOPS) but I most definitely got my rest.
I had the greatest experience staying at the new boutique Nantipa Hotel, a member of Small Luxury Hotels. With my own pool in my bungalow suite, an entire organic & natural decoration, total privacy and a personalized attention, this was really the escape I needed after a very harsh Canadian winter season. So, with a privileged view of the pacific right outside my room´s deck, for 4 days I was surrounded with a fresh breeze, palm trees & tropical flora, and delicious local food.
In the small town of Santa Teresa, you can find pretty little fashion boutiques, French style cafés and local hidden little spots where they welcome everyone with arms open, and a cold bottle of beer.... No wonder why Gisele (yes Bundchen!) fell involve with this place and made it, almost, her second home (as have other celebs that have wanted to escape the crazy city overload). In the atmosphere you can really feel that secluded peace but still making sure you have everything you need around, and that vibrant feeling of Pura Vida "pure life" is completely palpable.
To be honest... I wish this beach/surfer (but chic) town was a bit closer to the city, as from the main airport you either have to take a mini local flight, which I do not take because it scares the sh*! out of me, so I decided to drive for about 6 hrs, including a ferry ride. RIDICULOUS! but when you get to this beautiful landscape, you forget about the crappy (very crappy) road, so definitely get a 4x4.
My best part of my Nantipa experience? Hands down... the beds are the most comfortable ones I've slept on in my latest hotel trips, and the amenities were amazing, including an open concept shower, and handmade-organic hair products by Raw Botanicals. Yes, this is important! In my opinion, the best experiences come with the thought behind the unique details we can identify. Also my absolute favorite thing about these bungalow rooms is that at night, you can leave the terrace door open and sleep to the sound of the waves crashing in the back. WONDERFUL!
Watch FULL video experience HERE
Local tips:
Santa Teresa is no place for walking. Rent an ATV and discover it the right way. The roads are pure dirt and obviously no sidewalks, so ATV is the way to go.
Visit Malpais beach, it will be worth the visit, and it's a few minutes away.
Bring local currency with you, or visit the closest ATM. Basically, there is a no credit card policy in this town (in most places)... don't ask me why, its strange.
When booking your escape to Nantipa, get the Bungalow suites, they are worth it.
Nantipa has a great little restaurant, where the freshly made guanabana juices are delicious. And not but not least, don't miss the typical breakfast with Costa Rican coffee! my guilty pleasure... like they say, when in Rome!
Outfit musts: your trusty pair of denim shorts, black swimsuit, a vibrant blue bag, a chic pair of sandals, and a straw hat!
