$100 Million Investment Announced for Costa Rica’s Peninsula Papagayo

On July 11th Gencom, a leading Miami-based international luxury hospitality and residential real estate investment and development firm, announced an investment of more than USD 100 million investment towards a major enhancement of Peninsula Papagayo, a 1,400-acre premier residential and resort destination in northwestern Costa Rica, where our experts Papagayo Luxury is based.

 

The comprehensive works with begin in December 2017 and will take eco-luxury and transformative experiences in Central America to a remarkable new level. The transformation revolves around the re-imagined Four Seasons Resort Costa Rica and a range of unique first-ever Peninsula Papagayo amenities, transformative experiences and facilities which will help preserve one of the most extraordinary biological corridors on the globe.

“Intertwining luxury amenities with nature and sustainability have always been at the heart and soul of the Peninsula Papagayo resort development,” explains Jane Moore, director of Papagayo Luxury. “Under the new ownership of Gencom and their investment of significant funds, the resort will continue to evolve and strengthen its founding principles.”

 

These enhanced guest experiences will include:

• A major renovation of Four Seasons Resort Costa Rica, the only Forbes five-star resort in Central and South America and home to an 18-hole Arnold Palmer-designed course and five tennis courts available for guests of Papagayo Luxury
• An 8+ mile network of nature trails within the confines of the resort gates
• A Macaw sanctuary with the objective of cultivating this native species through conservation and educational programming
• An onsite Papagayo Explorers Club which will present a collection of “only here” experiences of different themes like adventure, culture, and volunteer opportunities
• An enhancement of the Marina Papagayo, which will include a new restaurant and lounge, gourmet market, and new yacht charter options
• Investment in the private Prieta Beach Club, scheduled to reopen in time for Thanksgiving week with a new restaurant, new spa services, and more.

 

 

It’s an exciting time to plan a trip to this exceptional biosphere where you’ll soon be treated to these wonderful new amenities as well as the area’s 11 miles of dramatic coastline, eight miles of gorgeous bluff edges, seven sandy beaches and one of the world’s only tropical dry forests.

Papagayo Luxury is evolving along with the resort. They have just added a spectacular newly built villa to their collection of luxury holiday villas and condos. The brand new four-bedroom Sky’s Edge villa has unbelievable views of the ocean and the vivid sunsets. The cutting edge design features crisp lines, phenomenal floor to ceiling windows, vast vaulted ceilings, a number of terraces and sleek contemporary furnishings.

The Peninsula Papagayo is located only 30 minutes from Liberia International Airport, which is accessible by over 100 weekly flights seasonally from major cities in the U.S., Canada, U.K. and across Central America. Be one of the first to stay in this exceptional villa or learn more about the resort’s upcoming transformation by contacting Papagayo Luxury here.

Family holidays are a time to disconnect from work, focus on the kids, have fun times together and create memories to last a lifetime. Your dream family beach holiday starts right here as we take you around the world to phenomenal villas which aren’t merely beautiful; each one is ideally adapted to families with their fantastic amenities, an incredible range of activities and, of course, stunning sea views.

The Beach House, Ricketts Luxury – Anguilla

Puma Estate, Papagayo Luxury – Papagayo Peninsula, Costa Rica

Mix natural adventures with beach time and family fun by staying at Papagayo Luxury, located on the gorgeous Papagayo Peninsula in the lush Costa Rican tropical dry forest. One of their best villas for families is the Puma Estate, and if you can get away before Christmas, Papagayo Luxury is offering the 7th night free now through December 14th (including Thanksgiving).

The Puma Estate House is a luxurious custom designed six bedroom / six and a half bathroom home featuring magnificent ocean views throughout the home. The property is backed by the Four Seasons Arnold Palmer Signature Course and Golf Club. This home is particularly well-suited for two families traveling together as it has two identically sized master suites (stacked). There is a flexible bed arrangement as a king can convert to two twins (for teens that don’t want to share a bed). It also has a sixth small, spare bedroom with a full/twin bunk bed, when guests need extra space for more kids or for their nanny.

In addition to comfortable living spaces and terraces, the estate includes a private pool and hot tub. Plus it’s a short drive from the Prieta Beach Club, a small putt putt course at the driving range and Nacascolo Beach, which is a long beach with flat water (bay side).

Scoop up this great deal on the Puma Estate for stays before December 14th or reach out to Papagayo Luxury at this link to check availability for other times.

Samujana – Koh Samui, Thailand

The beautiful Samujana resort, featuring stunning private villas, offers an amazing family holiday on the picturesque island of Koh Samui. Samujana was chosen by Smith Hotels as one of the World’s Best Family Resorts 2016, below are some of the reasons it made the list.

Perched on a hillside overlooking a coral cove with private beach access, this private resort, designed by award-winning designer Gary Fell, is comprised of a collection of oversized and opulent villas, some of which feature private cinemas and games rooms making are perfectly suited to families. They have experienced and qualified bilingual babysitters and nannies available on hourly, daily and weekly rates, so parents can take a little break for themselves.

Family activities at Samujana include cooking classes, Muay Thai boxing lessons and a range of watersports such as waterskiing, snorkelling and diving. Its team of chefs provide delicious in-villa dining experiences including family-fun barbecues which you can enjoy poolside.

The island also has tenpin bowling, two modern cinemas, and even a jumping castle playzone. A number of excursions can be arranged from tours to see the waterfalls and temples or to one of its family attractions like the Aquapark, Butterfly Garden or Coco Splash Waterpark.

Book your dream family holiday to Thailand at Samujana.

Kauri Cove Villa, Touch of Spice – Moturua Island, Bay of Islands

Have a private island in New Zealand’s exquisite Bay of Islands just for you and your family by staying at the Kauri Cove Villa by Touch of Spice. Step off your private helicopter transfer straight onto a white sand beach and find a split-level beach haven designed by renowned New Zealand architect Pete Bossley tucked into the native bush.

“Right on property there’s access to all the best non-motorised water toys, including kayaks, stand up paddleboards, a dinghy, top notch snorkelling and fishing equipment, and an ocean trampoline,” explains Jacqui Spice, founder and CEO of Touch of Spice. “Rock pool exploring, sprat fishing or the good old-fashioned playground will keep the wee ones entertained. For the big kids, ATV Quad adventures, jet skis, parasailing, deep sea fishing charters and heli flight-seeing tours are all on the motorised menu.

“If white knuckles are not your thing, there’s the Department of Conservation Moturua Scenic Reserve walk or exploring Maori artefacts and indigenous history at any one of 27 recorded archaeological sites on the island. Your concierge in residence would also be delighted to book a private yoga teacher or horseback riding session, in addition to assisting with anything mentioned above (or anything you may dream up).

“Of course, we’d be remiss not to mention the internationally ranked golf course, spa services and world-class dining at Kauri Cliffs, just a short helicopter ride away. There is truly something for everyone on this island retreat and Touch of Spice can offer bespoke packages that will leave you never wanting to return to the mainland.”

The Kauri Cove Villa is still available for the Christmas and New Years holidays. Plan your family holiday to the beautiful Bay of Islands with Touch of Spice at this link.

Tres Soles Villa, In Villa Veritas – Punta Mita, Mexico

For a fantastic family holiday in Mexico, our expert Laura Blair of In Villas Veritas take us to the gorgeous Tres Soles Villa on the Punta Mita Peninsula found on Mexico’s Pacific coast north of Puerto Vallarta. Since it has eight bedrooms, two of which are masters, it’s ideal for extended families or two families traveling together. Laura Blair of In Villas Veritas tells us more:

“The pool is lovely and fun for kids as it winds around palm islands,” describes Laura. “There is a gentle slope down to the fantastic beach so no big drops.

Alternatively, it’s just a few minutes’ drive from the punta mita resort and residents’ beach club where you can meet other families and kids. There you’ll find beach service, a pool, club bar and restaurant, golf and tennis. There’s also tennis in the private villa community a two-minute walk from the villa.

There are wonderful nature and adventure activities for those more sport-minded. Everything is possible here such as tennis, golf, scuba, hiking, zip lining, whale watching, surfing, paddle boarding, kayaking and more. Or you can just relax in the sun with a good book and a Margarita (and still see the whales migrating from your chaise lounge). This includes full staff for all services including a wonderful chef so you don’t even have to leave the property and still have plenty to do with the house, pool and beach.

Escape to this remarkable villa and lovely part of Mexico with In Villas Veritas here.

Skiathos 1L Villa, Five Star Greece – Greece

With its exceptional climate, spectacular natural beauty and fascinating cultural discoveries, the Greek Isles are an ideal family destination and our expert Ileana Von Hirsch of Five Star Greece has the perfect family villa on the Island of Skiathos.

“The Skiathos 1L Villa has something for all ages in a family group,” says Ileana. “The island has an airport so it’s more readily accessible. The villa has a private sandy beach with easy swimming, plus onsite there is a huge pool set in lawned gardens, a family cook and staff, and separate guest cottages for when family tensions rise…

“A friendly boatman to take you out on day trips to explore the gorgeous beaches of the wilder north coast, cross over to the lush and mountainous island of Skopelos, where Mamma Mia was filmed or try your hand at water-skiing at Tourlos Beach. For some cultural discoveries, visit the secret monasteries in Skiathos’ green hills, seek out some homemade almond sweets or “Amigdalota” or shop for some artisanal jewellery at Varsakis in Skiathos town.”

Have a superb family getaway to Skiathos with the help of Five Star Greece at this link.

 Villa Athena, St Barth Properties – Anse des Cayes, St Barthélemy

The breathtaking and relaxing island of St Barthélemy is a fantastic family destination in the Caribbean and our local experts at St Barth Properties have just the right property for families: the Villa Athena.

This marvelous multi-level villa features floor-to-ceiling windows and an airy, open feel. Admire the sparkling sea and Anse des Cayes from inside or from one of its many terraces. The long, heated pool and surrounding terrace with a pool bar is highlight. There are two spacious living rooms, a guest bath and a dining room. The villa is furnished in a chic minimalist décor and also includes a sleek professionally-equipped kitchen.

The seven bedrooms include a master suite with an outdoor shower that is located in a separate bungalow. All the bedrooms have king beds convertible to twins, beautifully appointed en-suite baths, terraces with sea views. Two on the lower level are “master-sized” with king/twin beds. Four bedrooms (two with outdoor showers) have king/twin beds and are located on the lowest level. There’s U.S. Satellite TV, a sound system and Apple TV in the bedrooms.

The Villa Athena is still available for Christmas, however, there is a minimum stay requirement of 14 nights. For further information or to reserve, contact St Barth Properties here.

Whether you’re after the thrill of the chase or seeking a peaceful day surrounded by nature, fishing is a sport which can be enjoyed by many. Take to the open seas battling to reel in giant marlin, try your hand at spearfishing or leisurely cast your line fly fishing. You won’t be a fish out of water by taking your next fishing holiday at one of these fabulous destinations.

Deep Sea Fishing – Harbour Island, The Bahamas

According to our expert Pamela H. Murdock, one of the best places for deep sea fishing in the Caribbean is the Bahamas, in particular on Harbour Island.

“The summer is the best time for fishing,” advises Pamela. “The gorgeous island is a popular destination year round, however, in summer the sun worshipers have been mostly replaced by fishermen and divers. This is when sport fishing is fantastic with tuna, mahi-mahi and wahoo in abundance. This is also the start of the marlin tournaments which can be found throughout the island chain. Bone fishing is great year round and there are several excellent guides on the island.
“Serious and amateur fishermen love to go out with Jeff Fox of Ocean Fox. Not only is he a really nice guy but he has a sixth sense as to where the fish are. A full or half day spent with him guarantees great sport and fun.”

Where to stay on Harbour Island

Dock your boat on Harbour Island at the spectacular five bedroom House on a Dune, one of the most extraordinary properties on the whole island. Located on 1.5 very private acres, this remarkable oceanfront property is hidden from the road and reached via a 500-foot sand driveway which meanders through tropical vegetation culminating in a simple pavilion that sits atop a 35-foot-high dune. Designed and owned by an internationally renowned architect whose award-winning firm creates contemporary and cool residential and commercial projects, House on a Dune’s minimalistic design allows it to blend seamlessly into the environment.

To learn more about renting this designer villa, contact Pamela H. Murdock Inc. here.

Spearfishing –  St. Peter, Barbados

For something a little different, our expert Nicole George at Altman Villa Rentals recommends heading to Barbados to try spearfishing, a fantastic sport that combines the thrill of catching fish and the extreme tranquillity of free diving.

“It is unique in that spearfishing is one of the oldest methods of catching fish,” explains Nicole. “It’s extremely ecological, providing virtually zero bycatch thus reducing the damage to fish populations and ensuring sustainable fishing practices.

“Enjoyed all over the world, spearfishing is an incredible way to escape from the modern day stresses of life (regardless of modern technology in equipment) and relax your mind to that of the ocean. Spearfishing can be a great experience with clear waters and tasty tropical fish which can be caught all over Barbados on the Caribbean (South & West) side and the Atlantic (East).

The following locations are typical dive spots known for fish, ease of access and usually allow diving throughout most conditions: Just off the beach by Port St Charles Marina in St Peter, and just off of Needhams Point in St Michael.”

Where to Stay in St Peter, Barbados

Leamington House is a colonial-style Great House set in the exclusive Leamington Estate. Extended by the famous architect, Oliver Messel, the house was for many years the home of the American Ambassador.

It was recently extended and modernized by the famed architect, Oliver Messel, to provide a very spacious reception/living area. This now leads to a covered patio with seating and dining areas, a swimming pool, and a beautiful, tropical walled garden. A gate just a short walk through the garden opens onto the beach.

This beautiful Barbados villa boasts four double, air-conditioned bedrooms on the first floor, each with private bathrooms. A fifth bedroom and bathroom are located on the ground floor. In addition to the aforementioned reception areas, the ground floor is host to a TV room and Wi-Fi is available throughout. This fully furnished holiday villa is let complete and fully staffed.

To book your fishing stay at Leamington House, contact Altman Villa Rentals at this link.

With phenomenal coastline on both the Caribbean Sea and the Pacific Ocean, Costa Rica has some excellent fishing opportunities. We hit the waters off the splendid Papagayo Peninsula, where our expert Jane Moore of Papagayo Luxury reveals is ideal for fishing all year due to the Gulf’s fertile waters.

Along its 200km coastline are beautiful beaches whose warm waters are full of a wide variety of fish such as marlin, tuna, mackerel, roosterfish, sailfish and mahi-mahi.

“The fishing season really kicks off in May and is strongest through November,” adds Jane. “However, marlin and roosterfish can be found throughout the year, especially mid-November to March.”

Where to Stay on the Papagayo Peninsula

Relax after a day out at sea in the chic comforts of one of the spacious villas by Papagayo Luxury. The custom villas have sleek contemporary design and furnishings. Outside, each deck features a private pool as well as expansive views of the Gulf of Papagayo, the Pacific, and the most awe-inspiring sunsets. All guests have access to the private five-star Prieta Beach Club in addition to the Four Seasons Arnold Palmer Signature Golf Course.

Travel to Papagayo Luxury via this great video filmed around their property or learn more about their offerings here.

Fly Fishing – Yucatan Peninsula, Mexico

Many might associate the turquoise waters off Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula with snorkeling or diving. However, from a fly fisherman’s perspective, the Yucatan could not be more perfect as it is literally surrounded by some of the most sought after gamefish in the world, says Angelica Espinosa of Catherwood Travels.

Angelica sends fishermen to the Sian Ka’an Biosphere in Quintana Roo and to the Isla Arena in Campeche, both of which offer some of the most productive fly fishing in the world. A UNESCO natural heritage site, the saltwater flats and shallow bays of the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve, situated on the south side of the peninsula near Tulum, are excellent for experienced anglers as well as families. The best fly fishing here is from November to June which corresponds nicely with winter holidays. On the northern side, Campeche features an extensive mangrove lagoon extending from the City of Campeche north for over 120 kilometers where you can experience fantastic fly fishing.

Where to Stay on the Yucatan Peninsula, Mexico

Catherwood Travels has a wide repertoire of the top private haciendas and beach villas in the Yucatan Peninsula. This unique part of the country combines fascinating Mayan culture, deep history, and amazing natural beauty. Staying with Catherwood allows you to experience all of these facets to their fullest. They can arrange expert-led expeditions, cultural experiences and, of course, fabulous fishing trips.

Contact Catherwood Travels here to arrange the ultimate trip to the Yucatan.

Fly Fishing – Montana, U.S.A.

We couldn’t talk about fly fishing without including one of the best places for this sport: Montana. With miles of pristine rivers, the state is a haven for fly fishermen. Suzy Hall of Mountain Home suggests casting your line in the Yellowstone River, the longest free-flowing river in North America and one of the great trout streams of the world.

Originating in the famed Yellowstone National Park, the river flows almost 700 miles to its confluence with the Missouri River. According to Suzy, Paradise Valley also offers some of the best spring creek fisheries in the region and a favorite of local anglers.

Where to Stay in Montana, U.S.A.

Located just seven miles up into the hills from the Yellowstone River, The Grizzly Creek Ranch by Mountain Home is a foolproof fisherman’s base in the area. Hidden in the breathtaking Montana wilderness, Grizzly Creek Ranch is a classy and comfortable lodge complex for up to 30 guests. Guests have exclusive use of six homes, a vast dining and event hall, a recreation barn, yoga and massage cabin, and the 2,000-acre ranch.

Weeklong ranch stays with all meals included begin at $32,000 for a group of six, and just $600 per additional person up to a max of 30. Fly fishing and other activities can be arranged at additional expense.

Discover this lovely luxury ranch by reaching out to Mountain Home at this link.

Considered the shoulder season in many destinations around the world, the month of May can be a traveler’s delight. Fewer tourists and great deals, the cusp of the rainy season or the joys of spring, it’s still not too late to enjoy our favorite places to visit in May.

Scotland

May is an excellent time to holiday to Scotland, the days are almost at their longest, wildflowers and rhododendrons are popping out in the countryside, plus statistically you have the best chance of the whole year of getting dry weather.

“The Glenapp Castle is a great place to go in spring,” highlights Andrew Loyd, one of our UK experts of Loyd & Townsend Rose. “It’s truly ideal for garden lovers.”

The impressive 19th-century castle, built for the Earl of Inchcape, is located close to the coast in the southwest of the country. Opened to guests since 2000, its 17 rooms, sophisticated drawing room and library evoke the utmost of Victorian splendour. Outside, the elegance is carried over in its historic Italian gardens and 36 acre private grounds.

Garden aficionados should roam beyond the castle walls to several noteworthy gardens in the vicinity. Andrew recommends exploring the clifftop Culzean Castle and its gorgeous 600 acres of park and woods where you can seek out the spring blossoms along the marked paths through meadows, forests and around secluded ponds. There’s also Castle Kennedy Gardens, an important historic garden as well as the famous Logan Botanic Garden, considered the country’s most exotic garden.

Whereas over at our other UK expert, Warren de Long of Blandings, recommends going to the coast of Fife, where they have some fabulous properties to base yourself for exploring the area.

“So much of the press for Scotland is about the Highlands and the Western Isles – but I think this part of Scotland is every bit as beautiful and full of charm.

“The obvious place to start, of course, is St Andrews, it’s historic university and the world-class golf should be enough to tempt anyone, but to my mind there is so much more. There is a glorious coastal path that is best between St Monans and Crail—beautiful coastline and great villages, as well as excellent fish & chips in the villages near Anstruther. If you are a bit more adventurous, there is the Elie Chain Walk (between Elie & Leven) where there is a bracing, otter-spotting trail over the cliffs where you can do a 2-to-3 hour scramble. It’s challenging but not as scary as it sounds!

“For those who would rather sit than walk, it is worth going to the nearby coastal village of Elie where The Ship Inn not only has great food, but also hosts beach cricket (only when it is low tide!) starting in May and going on throughout the Summer. Pittenweem is another great spot on the beautiful East Neuk coastline, and in August each year they host the Pittenweem Arts Festival—which is great fun for families, and growing in popularity each year. Nature-lovers have plenty to see too, as there are regular ferries from Anstruther to the Isle of May which is known for its puffins, seals, porpoise, dolphin and even the occasional whale!”

To experience some of this yourselves and make the most of springtime in Scotland, you can reach out to these UK experts at Loyd & Townsend Rose and Blandings at this link.

Bahamas 

“May is one of my favorite months to be in the Bahamas, in particular Harbour Island,” says our our Bahamas expert Pamela Murdock. “The air temperature ranges from about 70 – 85 degrees and the water is about 80 degrees. It’s simply perfect. Though it’s the beginning of the rainy season, the weather is generally beautiful. While this idyllic small island remains a wildly popular destination year round, by May the sun worshippers have been joined by those who love fishing and diving.”

We are in luck because Pamela was just on Harbour Island a week ago scouting out some new luxury properties to add to her already extensive portfolio and gave us these insider tips:

“Of course I made time to do some of my favorite things like snorkeling with Jeff of Ocean Fox and shopping for chic clothes at the Blue Rooster and just around the corner at the island’s newest store, Drake. We also had an fantastic lunch at Ocean Talley. Once a best-kept secret, this little jewel is getting more and more popular so definitely make a reservation, especially on weekends,” advises Pamela wisely. “It’s located in a lighthouse on Whale Point, Eleuthera which is about a 10-minute boat trip from Harbour Island. Definitely try their Tequila Shrimp as a first course – It’s so good you may want to have it for your main as well! It really is the perfect way to spend a Bahamian afternoon.”

We couldn’t agree more! A big thank you to Pamela for sharing this valuable local insight. You can learn more about Pamela’s offerings on beautiful Harbour Island at here.

Costa Rica

One of our Costa Rica experts, Jane Moore of Papagayo, confirmed that May is a wonderful time to visit the country. Her luxury villas are located in the most upscale area of Costa Rica, home to the Four Seasons and an Arnold Palmer Golf Course. However, the area is still not overly developed so it feels very private.

“May is the beginning of the green season,” explains Jane. “We’re located in a tropical dry forest so when it rains, even just a little, everything becomes greener. Plus temperatures have started  cooling down from April’s extreme heat. In addition, since it’s the fringe season, just after spring break and before summer school holidays, it’s a good time to visit for couples. It’s like you have the place all to yourself.”

It’s also perfect timing because Papagayo has a fantastic last minute deal of up to 50% savings on certain villas for stays through June 01, 2016. Jane has sweetened the deal even further by running a flash sale which extends this deal for rental up to Nov 1 for bookings made by April 30, 2016.

Find out more about Papagayo and scoop up this amazing deal here. Or peruse the equally exceptional properties of our other Costa Rica expert Mead Brown at this link.

Morocco

May is the most wonderful time of the year to travel to Morocco and Marrakech in particular,” says David Schneuwly one of our Morocco experts at Villanovo, who have some fabulous villas in Marrakech and Essaouira evoking the traditional spirit of Morocco coupled with modern luxury.

“During the day you can enjoy blossoming gardens under clear blue skies and in the evening al fresco dining in all our villas,” he tempts us further. “Golfing at its best, plus i’s also a wonderful time to trek in the Atlas mountains. We  can organize superb lunch parties in the Agafay desert located one hour from Marrakech.”

To arrange your perfect stay in Morocco, you can contact Villanovo or our other Morocco experts, Kensington Finest Properties Marrakech, here.

Bali, Indonesia

May can be a great month to go to Bali, in part for similar reasons to Costa Rica above: it’s still relatively dry and slightly less humid then the rainy season, plus it’s just before the high season in summer making it less crowded and giving the island a more authentic, laid-back feel.

Our Bali experts at Luna2 have a fantastic May Getaway package. Named one of “the world’s top 10 hottest hotels” by Tatler Asia, Luna2 is a private hotel located in Seminyak, Bali’s ultimate beachfront holiday destination. You have exclusive-use of 5 bedrooms (4 doubles, 1 twin) for up to 10 adults. Their additional services include VIP ‘fast-track’ with complimentary airport pick-up/drop-off, daily sunset canapés, 24-hour use of 1 “Lunamobile,” with driver, complimentary kids’ coordinator/babysitting services.

Their May Getaway package is available for any bookings made from now until May 31, 2016 for stays between May 1 and August 31. They are also providing a special exclusive offer for UltraVilla readers, who will also receive a 5-course degustation dinner at the Chef’s table, for up to 10 guests, with the uninterrupted sunset and ocean views.

Learn more about Luna2 here or the exclusive properties of our other Indonesia experts, Global Nomad, who are all booked by for May, but the autumn is also a nice time to go to Indonesia.

Happy travels and we hope to see you at some of these wonderful destinations!

The latest acquisition of Papagayo Luxury is Viste de Oro, a three-bedroom, 2,800-square-foot condo within the gated community of Peninsula Papagayo in northwestern Costa Rica. Vista de Oro has three and a half baths and 750 square feet of private terraces, and it comes with access to the private Prieta Beach Club and the Four Seasons Arnold Palmer Signature Gold Course. Jane Moore, of Papagayo Luxury, says the property is ideal for three couples (children must be at least 12 years old). A concierge service handles such arrangements as stockage, transport, restaurant reservations, and golf tee times. To inquire, contact Jane at Papagayo Luxury.

The villa is equipped throughout with WiFi and satellite TV, a more reliable option in this part of Costa Rica than cable. The great room (above) has a vaulted ceiling, and every room has been fully refurbished, with lots of reflective surfaces and a completely renovated kitchen (below). Peninsula Papagayo is on the Pacific coast near Santa Rosa National Park in Guanacaste, a province known for its beaches, coral reefs, rare tropical dry forest, and biodiversity, as well as such activities as snorkeling, surfing, and sport fishing. Vista de Oro is newly available, so now is the time to book it for a Costa Rican holiday.