We were fortunate enough to have our first retreat to a new location in January: COSTA RICA! Our guests had amazing things to say about the locale, and we asked our retreat leader Mindy to tell us what her experience was like in this beautiful country.
As we turn the calendar over for a brand new month, I’m taking a moment to reflect on the start of 2022. Leading up to our January retreat in Costa Rica it was an exhilarating feeling to know that I would return to this beautiful country with guests. The moment you land in San Jose, you cannot help but notice the warm blanket of the climate welcoming you upon arrival. The excitement to be traveling and surrounding by likeminded sun seekers is palpable!
Being met from Vida Mountain’s friendly driver Lalo the 90 minute ride to the mountain resort was full of life. With that instant rummaging in the file folders of the mind to remember my Spanish, Lalo was quick to translate to English and pointed out sugar cane fields, volcanoes, names of bustling towns and stories of the people who lived in the area of San Ramon. When I think back to that drive - and truthfully of the entire week we spent in Costa Rica - I am filled with the colour of green flashing before my eyes, as this landscape is so healthy. It is no wonder people choose to visit here for the essence of Pure Vida - Pure Life. The welcoming staff of the resort made our time away so special with surprises throughout the week. On past trips to the Costa Rica , I’ve stayed mainly on the coast, but I have to say that being up in the mountains is the best of both worlds. The vistas from the property are larger than life with the gulf of Nicoya in the distance, agricultural fields and endless mountain ranges as far as the eye can see. January and February are the perfect times of the year to visit, as the raining season has passed and all the plants & flowers are blossoming to life. The weather is ideal with shorts and flip flops being a staple during the day and light cover ups at night.
Our first yoga class together finished as the sun began to set. All of us sat blissfully on the studios front steps to watch this warm orange and pink orb set behind the far away mountains on the coast. This quickly became part of our daily ritual if we were on the property to see it. The feeling of a day well spent nurturing our selves with fresh, clean air, healthy foods and practices.
Having a small group to explore the area was ideal. Our first excursion led us to a 5 waterfall hike, which definitely embodied the sense of adventure in us all! Walking through the rainforest with strewn leaves marking our path, we managed to see the wonders of the natural world before our very eyes….including the tell tale monkeys high up in the canopied tree tops! That evening’s steam was well deserved for everyone’s efforts. Staying on the property the following day was greeted with a Forest therapy guided tour from Vida Mountain’s local guide. His zen presence put each person’s trust into his words, and his love of nature within the area was shared along the way. This activity was a wonderful introduction to the secret gems of Vida Mountain. When you explore the trails around the property you’ll find signs that remind you that life is happening everywhere and to stop and enjoy those quiet moments along the way.
As we set out early the following day, we discovered coastal bliss on our private boat ride to Isla Tortuga. We made a surprise stop along the way to see some of Costa Rica’s locals and then on to the idyllic beach where guests had opportunities to snorkel, unwind and swim. When I go back to that day, I recall many reasons to smile. Maybe from the joy of seeing people exploring the rich underwater world, the carved out pipa fria (fresh coconut) on the beach or the quiet beach we had our yoga practice on. The feeling of sand beneath your toes and hot sun has a lasting effect on you.
This retreat was special as it was like a reunion with kindred spirits who shared a love for travel, wellness and renewal. We laughed and learned so much about one another in such a short period. There was plenty of time for guests to soak in the sun and float peacefully in the bright blue waters of the infinity pool. A perfect start to a brand new year. One that I’m incredibly grateful to of started with these gems of human. I hope the warmth and pura vida stays with each and everyone of you throughout the year. Thank you for choosing to come along for the adventure.
Until next time ~
Hasta Luego mi amigas!Mindy
Thanks, Mindy, for your vivid description of the trip!
We have one space open for our February retreat! For more details on how to join us in Costa Rica, check out the site here.