All photos courtesy Tourradar.com
Now that the holidays are over and business is back to usual, it’s time to get excited about where you’re traveling in 2020.
Unique Homes and Tourradar.com have rounded up all the buzziest destinations for the year ahead so you can start planning your next great adventure!
Costa Rica
If you’re hoping to reconnect with nature this year, Costa Rica is the answer. It’s where tropical backgrounds are the norm, as is exotic wildlife, robust coffee flavours and the relaxing wellness retreats waiting for travellers beachside.
Stroll across suspension bridges up in the forest canopy and find yourself completely and utterly face-to-face with Mother Nature while in the dreamy cloud forest region of the country in Monteverde. 90% of Costa Rica’s energy is created by renewable sources, and they’re on track to become one of the first carbon-neutral countries this year. Play your part by choosing to spend vacation time in a country that’s going above and beyond to make a difference to our global climate crisis.
Just in case activities like hiking volcanoes, surfing and zip-lining through lush hilltops isn’t your thing, Costa Rica is also home to cities tailor-made for an escape, from San Jose to Puerto Viego. While there’s something for everyone in Costa Rica, the natural beauty and jungle life definitely come first place.
Bhutan
It’s been a couple of years now that people have been talking about Bhutan and for good reason. The country proudly boasts a nearly untouched natural landscape that will stun even the most well-travelled among us. Already the world’s only carbon-negative country, taking a breath of fresh air means something entirely different in Bhutan.
Nestled tightly in the Himalayas, you’ll find plenty of mountain trails capable of delivering you some awe-inspiring views in Bhutan, like those of Paro Taktsang – also known as Tiger Nest – it’s an iconic sacred Buddhist monastery that sits cliffside. There’s also the chance to see ornate palaces from as far back as the 17th century and national parks that are home to rare and exotic wildlife like the Himalayan black bear and red panda.
If you’re hoping to make 2020 the year for some spiritual respite, a visit to the world’s real-life Shangri-La is in order.
Ireland
Easily enjoyed in under a week, the Emerald Isle is full of pursuits that balance adventure, nature and history with ease.
The only road trip you’ll need for 2020 is along the Wild Atlantic Way, a 2,500-kilometer route that you can tackle in parts during your first visit. Embrace the elements along this sprawling route and enjoy discovering small-town life, coastal landscapes and secluded beaches across the country.
The sooner you visit, the faster you can start conquering your resolutions. Just make sure your trip itinerary includes a stop at the Blarney Castle where the famed Blarney Stone is located. As the legend goes, those who hang upside down and lay their lips on the stone is bestowed the gift of gab, which will help to ensure you get everything you want and more out of 2020.
Argentina
Home to one of the world’s most impressive networks of waterfalls, Argentina is teeming with extraordinary natural wonders that put travellers in the centre of it all. For example, visitors to the Argentina side of Iguazu Falls can enjoy kilometres of trails that will take you in and out of lush forests and within arm’s reach of the waterfalls themselves. If you’re in search of something a little cooler, then Glaciar Perito Moreno will not disappoint. You can witness the soaring beauty of this glacier in Los Glaciares National Park. And thanks to the park’s extended network of steel catwalks and platforms, Perito Moreno is one of the world’s most impressive and accessible glaciers.
You want a city escape with fiery music, and experimental takes on classic dishes, Buenos Aires, the country’s capital, is an essential stop on your 2020 adventures. Argentinians know their way around beef, and their steaks will wow your tastebuds. You can end your night in Buenos Aires by visiting a tango bar and working off your dinner in a flurry of dance moves taught to you by local experts.
Looking to include world-class wine? Just head to Mendoza (Argentina’s wine country). You can learn how the grapes are grown and cared for in the thick of it all. We promise once you’re walking alongside the farmers, hearing their stories firsthand, a glass of Malbec will taste all the more satisfying.
Want to learn about other potential travel destinations? Visit Tourradar.com for more opportunities!
With panoramic Pacific Ocean views, this exclusive and private compound is nestled in the Hermosa Hillsides in Northwest Pacific Costa Rica. The property spans two lots, each with over one-plus acres. It includes a main villa plus two guesthouses.
“Villa Vista Azul offers privacy, ocean views and flexibility as a family compound or executive or yoga retreat with rental income benefits,” says Linda Ann Gray of Coldwell Banker Coast to Coast Properties, who is listing the property for $1.675 million.
The compound is just 30 minutes to the International Airport in Liberia and a short drive to the full-service beach community of Playas Del Coco.
For more information, visit www.coldwellbankercr.com
This property originally appeared in Homes & Estates Summer Supplement.
A 1,400-acre, gated resort and residential community on the north Pacific coast of Costa Rica recently announced the second phase of its more than $100 million transformation. As part of a vision to connect its 11 miles of coastline from end to end for the first time, Peninsula Papagayo is introducing new adventures, lifestyle amenities and resort enhancements for residents and guests of Four Seasons Resort Costa Rica and Andaz Costa Rica Resort.
Gencom — an international luxury hospitality and residential real estate investment and development firm and developer of Peninsula Papagayo — has made it a goal to honor the local culture and foster a true sense of community. “With our newly introduced amenities, only-here experiences and eco-luxurious real estate offerings, we are nurturing a strong and cohesive community rooted in wellness and sustainability,” says Donald McGregor, Gencom’s senior vice president of development and managing director for the Latin America region.
The re-imagination project will include a Papagayo Explorers Club, a bike-share program, and Four Seasons Private Residences Prieta Bay, the newest real estate enclave. Stirring up excitement, Camp Jaguar will offer adventures in the forest, ocean sports, and survival training, all meant to encourage confidence and self-discovery. “We are excited to see the combined effort of all the momentous enhancements give discerning travelers and homeowners compelling new reasons to discover Costa Rica,” says McGregor.
Photos courtesy of Peninsula Papagayo.
W Costa Rica, Reserva Conchal will feature two properties — the townhomes of Aromo and the Llama del Bosque — both of which include professional services, first-class amenities and an iconic and contemporary design.
Desarrollos Hoteleros Guanacaste S.A., a subsidiary of Florida Ice and Farm Company S.A., announced that it intends to develop W Hotels in Guanacaste, Costa Rica. The W Costa Rica, Reserva Conchal is anticipated to open in early 2019.
With destinations in outstanding locations throughout the world, W Hotels merges the high-design aesthetic and boutique spirit of an independently owned hotel with the attentive, professional service, amenities and dependability of a first-class business hotel. Each W Hotel is distinctively inspired by its surroundings, infusing cutting-edge design, décor, cuisine and ambiance with authentic local influences.
The new W Hotel will be developed in Reserva Conchal, one of the most exclusive mixed-use developments of Costa Rica, and it will be operated by Starwood Hotels & Resorts as per the terms and conditions of the operation agreement executed between Starwood and DHG.
The townhomes in Aromo and the Llama del Bosque are the new properties that will be featured in W Costa Rica, Reserva Conchal. In the Llama del Bosque, guests are minutes away from several restaurants, the Beach Club and the heart-stopping beauty of Playa Conchal’s white sands. The residential component of the property is incorporated into a condominium infrastructure, which guarantees harmony and design continuity throughout the neighborhood. The iconic design and contemporary luxury of both properties will set the stage for an extraordinary experience at W Costa Rica, Reserva Conchal.
Amenities will include 151 guestrooms, the “W Living Room” lifestyle lounge, specialty restaurants, a destination bar and lounge, a fitness center, natural trails for biking and hiking, tennis courts, an infinity edge pool, a spa and meeting space. Unique promotions, exclusive partnerships and signature Whatever/Whenever® service will set W Costa Rica, Reserva Conchal apart as a place to work in comfort, play in style and escape the average hotel experience.
Photo courtesy of Reserva Conchal
Peninsula Papagayo’s First New Residential Development in Over A Decade is Part of The Destination’s $100 Million Re-Imagination.
“Four Seasons is admired worldwide for their service culture and delivering experiences of exceptional quality. The combination of next generation residential design and construction with legendary Four Seasons service and amenities will create an extraordinary lifestyle unlike any other,” said Karim Alibhai, the founder and principal of Miami-based Gencom. “The amazing experiences that are Four Seasons hallmarks will become part of daily life on Prieta Bay.”
“Four Seasons Private Residences Prieta Bay at Peninsula Papagayo will offer the best in sophisticated environmental design and luxurious finishes,” adds Paul H. White, the senior vice president and co-head of residential at Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts. “This is a unique opportunity to extend our presence in Costa Rica and offer discerning collectors the finest Four Seasons residential experience in one of the world’s most sought after eco-adventure playgrounds.”
New ownership led by Gencom, a leading Miami-based international luxury hospitality and residential real estate investment and development firm, has announced that Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts, the world’s leading luxury hospitality company, will assume management of a new collection of environmentally designed private villas and estate homes set to commence construction this month. The construction is predicted to be complete by the end of 2019.
The exclusive enclave of 20 wholly owned properties will be known as Four Seasons Private Residences Prieta Bay at Peninsula Papagayo, situated on 17 acres of prime oceanfront real estate adjacent to the famed Four Seasons Resort Costa Rica. A private path will connect the new neighborhood to Four Seasons, a member-only beach club and two nearby beaches.
A special founders release will be offered for sale in January under a priority reservation program. Prices are expected to start in the mid-$3 millions.
Innovative organic design by renowned Costa Rican architect Ronald Zürcher takes inspiration from repeating patterns found in flora, fauna and pre-Columbian seals discovered on site. Each private residence appears to grow out of the landscape, inviting the outdoors in. Gorgeous glass walls and thoughtfully designed windows and pocket doors meld interior and exterior spaces, making the most of spectacular views and providing an unparalleled closeness to nature. Casual furnishings and clean lines lend a modern aesthetic. The result is elegant simplicity with an international sensibility that holds its inhabitants in nature’s profound embrace.
High-energy efficiency and high-quality indoor environments are integral to Zürcher’s progressive, performance-based design approach — saving energy, water and resources. With 99 percent of Costa Rica’s electricity currently coming from renewable sources, each residence will run on clean energy. Green roofs and local materials are infused into the architecture with a local sensibility.
In addition to Four Seasons service and amenities, each Prieta Bay residence will include membership in the coveted Peninsula Papagayo Club — Costa Rica’s exclusive private club featuring exceptional beach, golf, tennis and social facilities and an array of outdoor programs and activities for members and their families.
Renderings courtesy of Peninsula Papagayo
Located within an exclusive gated community on the west side of San Jose, Costa Rica, this stunning mansion offers a secluded, private setting with incredible panoramic views.
“This home is perfect for entrepreneurs and TV [and] movie stars, as it has incredible privacy.” — Listing Agent John Ordonez
This private home is situated in the central valley and is less than five minutes away from Santa Ana and Escazu’s business area, Forum I, II Plaza Roble, shopping areas and gourmet restaurants.
“It is in an incredibly peaceful setting and has stunning views of the city and mountains,” says listing agent John Ordonez of Luxury Homes Costa Rica. “It is built in one of the most exclusive communities in central valley San Jose and although it is part of a gated community it has enough land to offer privacy and comfort.”
Offered for $4.5 million, the home features five bedrooms, six baths, a swimming pool, attached independent office space, a meeting room, maid’s quarters and more.
“The pool area and pool have won awards and are quite amazing,” says Ordonez. “The master bedroom is also stunning.”
The exclusive gated community offers a private entrance, 24/7 security and camera surveillance, cobble internal roads, tennis courts, basketball courts, and a club house.
For more information on this exclusive property, visit www.LuxuryHomesCR.com.
These two stunning peninsulas make for perfect travel destinations this winter. Both have recently announced transformations, which means both destinations are completely reimagined just in time for the cool weather.
Peninsula Papagayo — Costa Rica’s Exclusive 1,400 private Peninsula
Tucked between the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean, Peninsula Papagayo commands 1,400 acres of lush landscape in the Guanacaste province on Costa Rica’s north Pacific coast near Nicaragua. The peninsula features two luxury resorts, the Andaz Costa Rica Resort at Peninsula Papagayo and the Four Seasons Resort Costa Rica.
New ownership has recently announced a $100 million re-imagination of the entire Peninsula Papagayo. Beginning in December 2017, the 1,400-acre Peninsula Papagayo will wrap Phase 1 of a more than $100 million capital improvements project toward the creation of the premier luxury vacation and residential destination across the Latin America region. The major metamorphosis of Peninsula Papagayo will bring an unprecedented new level of meaningful eco-luxury to the Latin America region of the Americas while connecting the peninsula from end to end for the first time.
Guests and homeowners will experience the natural beauty and wonders of the peninsula’s 1,400 acres through a combination of new builds, major enhancements to existing spaces, and a collection of new peninsula amenities, adventures and experiences that encourage people to connect with nature, the rich local culture and pura vida lifestyle, and each other.
Credit: Gencom
The Ultra Exclusive Punta Mita Peninsula in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico
Nestled on a 1,500-acre private peninsula on the southwest point of Mexico’s Riviera Nayarit region, Punta Mita is an unsurpassed luxury coastal enclave surrounded by lush landscape and pristine white sand beaches.
The residential community is home to 15 luxury real estate communities and two five-star resorts: the St. Regis Resort and the Four Seasons Resort Punta Mita, owned by tech billionaire, Bill Gates.
Launched this year, the Porta Fortuna is an ultra-luxurious resort enclave offering 4-to 6-bedroom, ocean view and oceanfront villas ranging from $2.8 million – $4 million.
The estates blend Italian, Mediterranean and Mexican architecture with a slightly contemporary flair. It offers an enviably luxurious lifestyle and vast ocean views across Banderas Bay, capturing the evening glimmer of Puerto Vallarta’s sparkling lights. Porta Fortuna is home to the acclaimed Sufi restaurant, a private owners’ beach club and the Punta Mita pier.
Credit: DINE
This luxury, private residence will debut in 2020 on Costa Rica’s premier Guanacaste shoreline.
Rosewood Residences Puerto Papagayo unveiled its first phase of luxury real estate offerings, allowing potential homeowners the opportunity to secure one of 45 residential offerings available during phase one.
“We are elated to see the reality of Rosewood Puerto Papagayo come to life as we begin accepting phase one residential reservations,” says Amy Davis, sales director for Rosewood Residences Puerto Papagayo. “For world travelers and prospective homebuyers who wish to call Costa Rica home, Rosewood Puerto Papagayo will perfectly capture Costa Rica’s pura vida luxury lifestyle.”
Located on the northern Guanacaste shoreline in Costa Rica, Rosewood Puerto Papagayo overlooks the expansive Gulf of Papagayo, the setting for the country’s premier destination for all things luxury and some of the world’s most sought-after beaches. When the resort opens in 2020, it will ultimately boast 98 privately owned residences ranging from studios to 5-bedroom. The property will also feature a 138-room hotel.
The first Rosewood in the country, the community is designed to follow the brand’s core philosophy of A Sense of Place® and will use indigenous materials and locally inspired artwork throughout the property. The accommodations and residences are designed to make the most of the natural surroundings, with features such as open-air living rooms, large terraces and plunge pools. The suites will offer 2-story treehouses whose striking, contemporary design will bring a sense of delight, privacy and romance with unmatched views of the Pacific Ocean. Three of the 11 treehouses will be available for purchase.
Keeping up with the sense of intimacy and luxury hospitality that Rosewood provides, the resort will provide amenities such as Sense, a Rosewood Spa®; beach club; tennis center; Kids’ Adventure Club; and shopping and restaurants.
The half-mile sandy beachfront will offer endless water activities and access to deep sea fishing expeditions, while the culinary offerings include a working farm-to-table restaurant and several fine and casual dining opportunities.
“Expanding our global portfolio with our first property in Costa Rica allows for the brand to draw inspiration from the natural beauty of the Guanacaste coast, which aligns with our ‘A Sense of Place®’ philosophy,” says Radha Arora, president of Rosewood Hotels & Resorts. “The destination perfectly embodies the Rosewood lifestyle and we look forward to introducing the resort to future guests and residents.”
A 15-minute drive from Liberia International Airport, the resort is situaed on the closest beach to the airport.
Rosewood Puerto Papagayo is the product of a team of globally-respected developers, architects and marketers including Aldesa’s team of engineers and builders, Zürcher Arquitectos and IMI Worldwide Properties.
In the first phase of development, 45 exclusive residences will be available priced from $450,000 to $2.9 million. Sales will launch in November 2017.
Tambor Tropical in Puntarenas, Costa Rica, an intimate boutique beach resort featuring 12 beachfront suites on the Pacific Ocean, is listed for $4.2 million by Josh Reef of the Hurwitz James Company. Built with both comfort and adventure in mind, Tambor Tropical offers guests a unique experience to connect with nature while providing high-end amenities.
Located at the end of a short, palm tree-lined road in a serene, unspoiled setting, guests of the resort can enjoy an unforgettable experience with nature. Tambor Tropical nurtures local wildlife, and encourages guests to take advantage of the environment. Guests can enjoy activities ranging from yoga on the beach to stand up paddle boarding, and ziplining through the jungle to scuba diving off the coast. The resort also offers exciting birding trails and tours, with close to 300 different bird species on and around the property.
Each suite spans 1,000 square feet with full kitchens, a sitting area and hardwood floors, and there is one garden suite offering 700 square feet. The resort features a massage and Jacuzzi studio, a large beachside tile pool with a jacuzzi, 450 feet of beach frontage and about 200 acres of lush gardens. There’s a full restaurant, bar, kitchen, walk-in cooler, dry storage, dining rancho, exercise rando, laundry services and a maintenance shop.
Mitch Gabourie and Andrea Webb, who have stayed at the resort four times, say “There hasn’t been an instrument invented which could measure how much this special place means to my family and myself. It’s a paradise to heal all the slings and arrows of life. Beautiful as always… Amazing memories!” Five-time guests Ruth and Michael Smith state, “There is no place like Tambor Tropical. It overwhelms the senses – the sight of the bay, the sounds of the monkeys and the birds, and the smells of the flowers. But just as special is the charm of the staff of Tambor. We will return for our sixth time next year to the paradise that is Tambor.”
The resort sits on 3.5 acres, with an additional 2.5 acres and 400 feet of beachfront available for condos and expansion. For more information, contact Josh Reef of the Hurwitz James Company.
Find Josh on Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn and Youtube.
