Guest Spotlight: Costa Rica

Editor’s Note: We’d like to introduce you to one of our incredible Glamping Hub staff members and her experience glamping in Costa Rica! Caroline, our Director of Business Development, stayed at one of these beautiful, eco-friendly suites in Santa Teresa, Puntarenas, Costa Rica.

1. Choose three adjectives to describe the glamping site you stayed at before your trip and another three words to describe it post-stay.

Before: Relaxing, remote, and rustic.
After: Unique, tropical, and secluded.

2. Who did you go glamping with, and what was your favorite memory that you made together during the stay?

I was traveling with my friend Shayla, and this was our second glamping accommodation on our trip traveling around Costa Rica. My favorite memory during our stay was relaxing in the pool while looking out at the forest. The pool feels like it is in the middle of the wild—it almost feels like a natural pool, as it blends into the surroundings so well.

3. What was the best part about the accommodation? How does it compare to past places you’ve stayed?

The accommodation was truly unique, especially after our earlier stay in a tree house that was incredibly basic. The structure of the property was very interesting; you are in close proximity to the neighboring guests in private rooms, but it manages to feel like you are secluded.

The shower is made to feel like you are suspended in the rainforest and looking out at the trees. The floor-to-ceiling glass creates a very open space, allowing you to truly appreciate your surroundings. Each balcony also has a suspended floating bed, which is incredibly relaxing to lie on while listening to all of the animals singing.

4. Describe to us the area around the glamping site. What do you think the perfect time of year to stay here would be and why?

The area of Santa Teresa and Mal Pais is an adventure traveler’s dream. It is slightly off the beaten path, due to the transportation links and roads being poorly maintained; however, it is a mini-paradise. From climbing waterfalls, zip-lining, horse back riding, and some of the best swells for surfers on the pacific side of Costa Rica, it’s any outdoor lover’s ideal haven.

It is also relatively undeveloped. There are many nice local restaurants and some culinary delights, but there are no big resorts, which has allowed the area to retain its charm. I would recommend a trip here in November.

5. Tell us one thing about your first glamping experience that surprised you and why.

The host has two very friendly German Shepherds. As an animal lover, it was a pleasant surprise to see them trotting around the grounds. The accommodation also has a communal Jacuzzi that is great for relaxing in after a long day of surfing or exploring.

6. If you could have invited a famous celebrity (dead or alive) over to your glamping site, who would it be and what would you have done together?

David Attenborough. I would have him explain the area to me and educate me on the local flora and fauna surrounding our suite.

7. What is your ideal food item and beverage for a glamping trip and why? If you have a special secret or recipe, please share with us—if you’re willing, of course!

Anything from the local surroundings. The fresh fruit and fish in the area around Santa Teresa was incredible.

8. Do you prefer a more active or more relaxing getaway? Which did you opt for at the glamping site, and what was the best related activity in the area?

I like to combine activities with relaxation, and Costa Rica and the Puntarenas area are perfect for this—you really can cater to all needs and have the best of both worlds. I really enjoyed surfing in Santa Teresa, especially at sunset, which is early, but it is very nice to be in the water as the sun fades and then trek back through the jungle.

We also hired ATVs and went on a small day trip to the local waterfalls of Montezuma—the perfect mini-adventure. It took around 40 minutes to get to the waterfalls, driving across the country side and backroads. We then hiked up the river to get to the big pool and waterfall, where the locals were swimming and jumping from the highest parts of the falls. It felt like a hidden paradise.

9. Fill in the end of the sentence: “This glamping site would be the perfect place for ___________________,” and tell us why!

Anyone wanting to relax and explore! It is great for couples or friends traveling. Each suite is fully-equipped, and you can easily enjoy the local town of Santa Teresa or stay secluded and relaxed at the accommodation.

10. Would you recommend glamping to family and friends? Do you see yourself going glamping again? Let us know why!

When traveling around Costa Rica, glamping is an absolute must! I would always recommend glamping. I think once you try it, other accommodations simply can’t compare. For me, it’s the only way!

---

Click here to keep exploring where to go glamping in Costa Rica or here to stay and glamp as Caroline did!