Join us on this exclusive trip to Costa Rica

Costa Rica, Pura Vida: Discover the Land of Volcanoes, Beaches, and Rainforests

May 23 – 30, 2023

We could not be more excited to bring you our first boots-on-the-ground trips this year, to one of the most unique and beautiful places on this planet: Costa Rica.

“Pura Vida”, which translates as “Pure Life”, is a phrase used by the locals to simply say “hello” or “goodbye”, or wish one a lovely day.

But the country itself is an example of exactly that – pure life. Costa Rica has everything: from rainforests to beautiful beaches, from coffee plantations and sugar cane fields to volcanoes and lava fields…

We want to invite you on this extraordinary adventure, exploring and getting to know this really special paradise with other Total Access members over a period of one week (May 23-30, 2023).

Day 1: Arrival at San Jose, Transfer to Coffee Plantation (Tuesday, May 23)

Welcome to Costa Rica!

Once you arrive at the Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO) in San Jose on May 23rd, you will be greeted by a driver, who will take you to an amazing boutique hotel located about half an hour by car from the airport.

Finca Rosa Blanca is a luxurious and quirky hotel, set into an oasis of lush gardens and a private coffee plantation, where you will spend the first night of your trip. Rest after the flight surrounded by the cloud forest and coffee plants, relax in the pool, and then join everyone else for dinner that evening.

Accommodation: Finca Rosa Blanca

Day 2: Coffee Plantation Tour, Private Flight to La Fortuna/Volcano Arenal, Nayara Springs, and Night Hike in the Rainforest (Wednesday, May 24)

Wake up to the smell of locally roasted coffee beans, fresh off the plantation, and after breakfast, head out to a private coffee plantation tour with the other TA members.

You’ll be led by an expert guide, who will take you through the shaded fields and forests, home to more than 130 bird species.

Experience coffee through the ages; learn how coffee was discovered, traded and consumed, then stroll the lanes of the organic sustainable coffee plantation and learn the entire process of organic cultivation and harvest. We will then take you through the processing of coffee, including cleaning the berries and drying them, ending with roasting your own coffee in the roasting and packing house.

After the coffee tour and coffee tasting (which will last about 2.5 hours), we will have lunch at the Finca Rosa Blanca restaurant, and then will head to our next stop… Volcano Arenal at La Fortuna!

IMPORTANT: You should be able to walk/stand for about 2.5-3 hours, which is how long the coffee plantation tour will take.

You’ll go back to the airport with a private shuttle, where a private plane will wait for you to fly our group directly to the La Fortuna airstrip.

From there, it’ll be a short drive to our next hotel of the trip – the one and only Nayara Springs.

This boutique escape encompasses all things luxurious, with views overlooking the grand Arenal Volcano, beautiful villas and a state-of-the-art spa and yoga pavilion.

Each villa comes with a thermal plunge pool, where you can relax after the flight and before dinner at one of the unforgettable restaurants of Nayara.

At night, we will have another guided tour ready for those of you who would like to explore the rainforest inhabitants that come out only when it gets dark.

At least 28 frog species, many other insects and other very special inhabitants have made their home in the ponds of Arenal. Learn how these captivating creatures interact with one another and what makes the rainforest so different after the sun goes down.

And if you feel tired after the trip, stay and relax in your private villa’s thermal pool, or take a walk in the lush gardens of Nayara Springs!

Accommodation: Nayara Springs

Day 3: Volcano Arenal – Lava Trails, Hanging Bridges and Skywalk Through the Rainforest (Thursday, May 25)

After breakfast and morning yoga session at Nayara Springs, an experienced local guide will meet us at the hotel lobby to start the day with a 3-mile hike (5km) along trails of solidified lava of the volcano Arenal.

The walk will take us through the primary forest, to the “1968 Viewpoint”, from where you can take in some of the most extraordinary landscapes of Lake Arenal and the lava flows from the volcano eruption in 1968.

At the end of the hike, we will have lunch at a local Costa Rican restaurant, where you can taste traditional cuisine.

We will then continue our day at the rainforest by Arenal volcano, where we will walk through suspension bridges with a professional guide who will take us through the various bridge levels, till we reach the “Skywalk” among the treetops. Prepare your cameras for some more amazing views of the volcano and the surroundings!

We will be back at Nayara Springs for one last dinner and last night at this little paradise hotel.

IMPORTANT: You should be able to comfortably do a 3-mile hike in the morning and another 1.5-2 hour walk later that afternoon.

Accommodation: Nayara Springs

Day 4: Transfer to the Nicoya Peninsula – Guanacaste Coast and Sunset Catamaran Tour (Friday, May 26)

After breakfast and the last morning yoga session at Nayara Springs, you will have some time for that last plunge in the thermal pools, or a walk through the lush gardens where you can befriend the local sloths.

We will leave the Nayara Springs hotel before midday, traveling back to La Fortuna airstrip, where a private plane will be waiting to take us all the way to the Nicoya Peninsula, the Guanacaste Coast on the Pacific Ocean (about 45 minutes by plane.)

For the next three three nights, we’ll stay at the all-inclusive W Marriott Resort Playa Conchal, hidden in the mangroves of Guanacaste, surrounded by exotic landscapes and white sandy beaches.

Upon arrival, we will hop on a private catamaran, which during that afternoon will glide silently along Costa Rica’s “Gold Coast”, passing some of Guanacaste’s exotic bays, white sand beaches, and rainforests.

Gaze ahead with a cold tropical drink, prepared and served by the catamaran crew, as you scan the seas for dolphins, sea turtles, flying fish, or even a leaping whale!

During the journey, we will stop in a calm bay, so that you can have fun in the Pacific. Snorkel in the azure bay or jog along the deserted white-sand beach as the ever-helpful crew prepares a feast of barbecued chicken, Spanish yellow rice, black bean purée, pico de gallo, and other local delicacies.

After sunset, the catamaran will be heading back to beautiful Conchal beach, dropping you off at the W Resort… an oasis with everything you need at hand, where you can continue enjoying your night!

Accommodation: W Marriott Resort Playa Conchal

Day 5: Real Estate Tour in Playa Flamingo and Playa Conchal (Saturday, May 27)

If you are an early riser, then you can grab your board and hit the waves, nibble on something sweet at the Wet Deck or kick back at Zona Azul, W Costa Rica’s bold beach club.

Prepare to leave the hotel not long after breakfast, because on Saturday, we are going to explore some incredible real estate properties together with a professional and seasoned local real estate agency.

We will check out the Flamingo Beach Marina, which is just north of Playa Conchal, and visit a few luxury properties there. This is one of Costa Rica’s most popular beaches with fine white sand, pristine clear blue waters, lagoons, and lush vegetation. The properties in the area are top-notch, and the Marina is brand new.

We will have lunch at one of the restaurants in the area, and head to check out a few more properties closer to the W Resort.

Upon return to the resort, you are welcome to relax at the pool, play golf, or simply spend some time with your travel companions!

We will have dinner at one of the resort’s restaurants that night, and prepare for the next day…

Accommodation: W Marriott Resort Playa Conchal

Day 6: Rum Tasting and Boat Safari at Palo Verde National Park (Sunday, May 28)

On Sunday, after breakfast, we will go on a full-day adventure away from the coast, to explore El Viejo Wildlife National Refuge and its magnificent Tempisque River which borders Palo Verde National Park.

At Palo Verde, we will enjoy an incredible boat safari, during which we will see a great number of birds, howler monkeys, and white face capuchin monkeys, as well as crocodiles and some other species in their natural habitat.

We will then learn how sugarcanes are processed and observe preparation of Costa Rican rum.

At the end of the rum tour, we’ll do rum tasting, and will savor the flavors of local home-made Costa Rican cuisine, before heading back to the W Resort for one last night at this amazing hotel.

Accommodation: W Marriott Resort Playa Conchal

Day 7: Real Estate in Tamarindo, Private Transfer to San Jose (Monday, May 29)

We will depart the W Resort at Playa Conchal after breakfast, to start our way back to San Jose.

Before we head back, we will stop by to see some really impressive real estate developments in Tamarindo, which is another famous beach town on the Guanacaste coast…

After the property tour and a nice lunch in Tamarindo, we will head to the local airport, from where our group will get on a private plane ready to fly us back to the capital city, San Jose (also about a 45-minute flight back to the SJO airport).

For our last night in Costa Rica, we will stay at the Intercontinental Hotel in the upscale Escazu neighborhood, right next to a famous high-end shopping center.

Accommodation: Intercontinental San Jose

Day 8: Session on Residency in CR, Departures Throughout the Day (Tuesday, May 30)

On the last day of our trip, after breakfast, we’ll arrange a quick morning session with a local Costa Rican legal provider who will tell us more about obtaining CR residency, and will answer any questions you may have on this or other important topics.

Note that this is an optional session, which you do not have to attend, especially if you have an early flight to take.

You will have a private transfer to the SJO airport arranged later that day, depending on the time of your flight.

Finca Rosa Blanca

Located about 20 minutes from the SJO airport in San Jose, Finca Rosa Blanca Plantation Resort is a renowned boutique hotel, famous for its organic gourmet cuisine, lush scenery, and superior service.

The rooms are all different and pleasantly comfortable with one of the master suites set into the tower with wonderful views over the valley. Also being located in the hills above San Jose (about a half hour drive away), at night you can see the twinkling lights of the city below from this quiet, green perch. Throughout the hotel you’ll discover a large collection of art, crafts and objects collected from all over the world.

Finca Rosa Blanca is a well-equipped hotel with a spa, pool and a restaurant serving some good regional food, not to mention its own coffee plantation to stroll through and sample some of the produce. The team at El Tigre Vestido and Bar Buho select their fresh ingredients daily from the hotel’s organic greenhouse and gardens. Their menus feature international flavors and Latin fusion recipes.

Nayara Springs

This boutique hotel encompasses all things luxurious, with views overlooking the grand Arenal Volcano, beautiful villas and a state-of-the-art spa and yoga pavilion. 

Privacy is as prominent here as luxury. Sitting outside the Costa Rican town of La Fortuna, Nayara Springs provides the perfect amount of seclusion.

Each of the 35 villas on the property is nestled among the floral gardens of the tropical rainforest and boasts its own personal thermal plunge pool, a spacious private garden with outdoor shower, a comfortable four-poster bed, alongside both indoor and outdoor seating areas.

A rich array of natural wildlife awaits, and guests can enjoy it from their private terrace, or by taking a tour through the Arenal Volcano National Park. Guests can then unwind by indulging in a treatment at the spa, heading to the yoga pavilion or swimming pool, or enjoying a drink at the stylish piano bar.

Cuisine at Nayara Springs is served at the lovely poolside restaurant, Amor Loco, where fresh fish, Latin American inspired sushi and organic home-grown vegetables all grace the menu.

W Marriott Resort at Playa Conchal, Guanacaste Coast

Tucked into the mangroves in Guanacaste, the W Costa Rica is a luxurious retreat for travelers. Surrounded by beautiful scenery and white sand beaches, the hotel itself has been designed to honor local culture, with a modern twist providing that special something extra. 

Each room has a headboard inspired by local artwork, and a fully glass enclosed shower providing incredible views. Natural elements harmonize with a modern sensibility throughout the resort in Costa Rica. Lounge on the WET pool deck or at the W Beach Club. Be pampered at AWAY Spa, work out at FIT and swing away at Reserva Conchal Golf Course.

Enjoy all the restaurants on the premises with your All-Inclusive rate. Or stay in your room, and let the ocean view come to you in this airy escape, decked out with a balcony overlooking the sparkling Pacific Ocean.

Intercontinental Multiplaza, San Jose

InterContinental Costa Rica at Multiplaza Mall is an urban retreat in the heart of Escazú, San Jose’s most exclusive area. Ideally located within the Multiplaza Mall complex, the hotel is just a few steps away from the finest restaurants, bars, upscale shops, and two corporate centers. 

Hotel guests can enjoy a lively ambience in any of the four trendy restaurants, access to the exclusive spa, with heated pools surrounded by tropical gardens.

Entry Requirements:

As of 1 April 2022 the only two requirements to enter Costa Rica are:

  • Valid passport
  • Return ticket from Costa Rica 

Climate and Weather

Costa Rica is located in the Central American isthmus, between Panama and Nicaragua, surrounded by both the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean. 

There are only two seasons in Costa Rica: dry and rainy. May is the beginning of the rainy season or the green season over most of Costa Rica. But this does not mean it rains continuously or even often. In the parts of the country which are affected, the usual pattern is rain in late afternoon or overnight.

Daily temperatures by the Arena Volcano at the end of May average 72-80°F (23-30C).

Guanacaste coast, where we will spend the second half of our trip, is warmer and dryer. Temperatures average 93°F (34°C) by the Pacific, and it rains less there, especially in May.

Clothing

Lightweight cotton and linen clothing is recommended for most of the year, but pack in some warmer clothes for cooler evenings. Waterproofing is necessary during the rainy season, so don’t forget to bring your waterproof jacket. 

For wildlife and bird viewing, consider wearing neutral browns and greens. Always bring mosquito repellent – that’s an essential for all outdoor activities.

Electrical Outlets

Electrical outlets in Costa Rica are Type B (NEMA 5-15) and/or Type A (NEMA 1-15). Plugs are typically the 2-pronged flat type, so US travelers will not typically need a converter or adapter.

If the plug of your appliance does not match the shape of these sockets, you will need an adapter to connect it. Electrical outlets supply electricity at 120 volts AC/60 Hz frequency.

Water

Tap water in Costa Rica is normally heavily chlorinated and, while relatively safe to drink, may cause mild abdominal upset. Opt for bottled water for the duration of the stay, especially if you have a delicate or sensitive stomach.

Lodging + Board

  • 1 night at Finca Rosa Blanca (Junior Suite), with dinner/breakfast/lunch
  • 2 nights at Nayara Springs (Private Spring Villa), with breakfast and dinner
  • 3 nights at W Marriott Playa Conchal (Spectacular Ocean Escape King w/Balcony), All-Inclusive
  • 1 night at Intercontinental San Jose (Premium Room), dinner and breakfast

Activities

  • Guided private coffee tour at Finca Rosa Blanca, coffee tasting
  • Guided night hike in La Fortuna
  • Guided visit to Arenal 1968 lava trails
  • Guided visit to Arenal hanging bridges and skywalk
  • Rum Tasting and Boat Safari in Tempisque river, Palo Verde, including traditional lunch
  • Private sunset catamaran in Guanacaste with snacks, BBQ, unlimited drinks

Transportation

  • Private transfer from SJO Juan Santamaria to Finca Rosa Blanca hotel
  • Charter flight from San Jose to La Fortuna
  • Private transfer from La Fortuna airstrip – Nayara hotel – La Fortuna airstrip
  • Charter flight from La Fortuna to Tamarindo airstrip, Guanacaste
  • Private transfer from Tamarindo airstrip – W Marriott – Tamarindo airstrip
  • Charter flight from Tamarindo airstrip to SJO airport in San Juan
  • Private transfer from SJO – Intercontinental Hotel
  • Private transfer from Intercontinental Hotel to SJO 

Other items included:

  • 3-course lunch at local restaurant El Novillo del Arenal
  • 3-course lunch at Flamingo restaurant 
  • 3-course lunch in Tamarindo, Cala Luna restaurant
  • Tips for bellman and maid in Finca Rosa Blanca
  • Tips for bellman and maid in Nayara hotel
  • Tips for bellman and maid in Marriott W
  • Field Rescue/Medical Evacuation/Travel Services for each traveler
  • International flight to SJO, San Jose, Costa Rica
  • Refreshments, bottled drinks and bar bills outside standard itinerary/scheduled meals
  • Optional/alternative or suggested activities
  • Personal expenses and tips in hotels, guides or drivers
  • Extra expenses in hotels: spa, laundry, minibar, telephone calls, etc.
  • Tickets to national parks or tourist attractions not included in the itinerary
  • Extensions before or after the trip.

We are so excited to see the interest in this trip. We worked hard to negotiate a comparatively low price for you. Please note that due to the nature of the trip and the size of the group, we can only allow cancellations if we can find a replacement for your spot.

Please remember to check your calendar first… Cancellations/refunds will only be issued if a replacement is found. 

The trip is scheduled for May 23-30, 2023 (8 days/ 7 nights).

The cost for individual attendees is $9,650.  (3 Single-Occupancy slots available)

The cost for couples is $15,200 ($7600 per person). (4 Double-Occupancy slots available)

Pricing is based on 12 attendees (Sovereign Research CEO will be traveling with you).

Spots are sold on a first-come, first-served basis.

Reserve Your Spot Today!

Please select whether you are coming alone or with a guest:

Single Occupancy Ticket ($9,650) Double Occupancy Ticket ($15,200)

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