If money were no object, time off from work wasn’t a concern, safety was secured… where in this beautiful world would you go? Travel dreaming is important. That visualization takes you to the destination, lightens your mood, and brings positive energy. An easy way to do this is thinking about a place you have been before. What did you eat? How did you feel when you arrived at your hotel or resort? What new experience did you have on that adventure?
Thoughtful Details
Today I’m travel dreaming of The Retreat Costa Rica. I will never forget that first drive through the winding roads of the mountains of Alajuela, excited to see what was ahead of the next curve. The front desk greeted me with a warm smile and a cool cup of hibiscus tea. I learned that each room had a selenite crystal and diffuser of thieves to ensure a positive, healing energy for guests. There were koi ponds leading to some of the guest rooms because their movement creates relaxation. The water in the rooms are from the crystal mountain and infused with herbs from the garden. The amenities are made locally using fresh ingredients from the earth. This was a kind of care and thoughtfulness that I had yet to experience. A combination of luxury and healing travel at its finest.
Let’s Talk Food
As someone who lives to eat, I had done my best to research the food before my visit. The menu is anti-inflammatory, no refined sugars, no refined grains, and dairy free (with the occasional goat cheese or goat yogurt that has healing properties). Lunch was a salad bar. Would I be hungry? Don’t get me wrong. I do love salads. I had not eaten yet on that travel day and felt ravenous. Color me impressed with the salad served! This was no ordinary salad bar. Not only were there fresh vegetables from the garden of every color and flavor, but fresh dressings like cilantro vinaigrette, house-made dips like baba ghanoush, and new things to sample like agnolotti made with squash and filled with cashew cheese. Delicious, creative, and satisfying – I was hooked.
I found myself looking forward to each meal, excited to see what they would bring out next. I learned that dinner is a three-course meal that always starts with a warm roasted vegetable soup because it opens the digestive system. Organic, biodynamic wines and raw cocktails are available. I’m all for a creative cocktail. The bartender’s enthusiasm to help me try different things was marvelous. I ended up falling for the Skinny Tica made of tequila, agave, and fresh lime juice. Considering I am not a margarita fan, I was surprised that this struck my fancy.
Time to Spa
Vida Mia Healing Center and Spa had opened in August 2019 on top of this crystal mountain. The team at The Retreat told me what a big project this was as the previous spa had just two treatment rooms. Spas are typically my favorite space in a hotel. Actually, relaxation rooms are what I love. Vida Mia is like one big relaxation room with indoor and outdoor spaces. The minute you walk into the Gratitude Lounge, you have this incredible view of the mountains and valley that will take your breath away. There are hanging chairs, oversized seating, lounge chairs in the sunshine. I made it a point to sit in each throughout my stay to enjoy different perspectives.
Like the guest rooms, each treatment room has a selenite crystal and diffuser of thieves. The spa menu is extensive and thrilling for people like me who like to try new things. I spent time in my room at night studying it and making a list of everything I wanted to try to help narrow it down. Then I met with the spa director and Ayurvedic doctor, Vinod, to review my options. He helped me curate the perfect treatment itinerary to fit my needs. I was worried I was being extra. Vinod just laughed, shook his head, and told me he and his team would take care of everything. That I would leave feeling transformed…
Everyone at The Retreat Costa Rica and Vida Mia made me feel loved, cared for, and comfortable. I could spend hours reliving my time there. Now this has started my day off right. Keep travel dreaming and stay inspired.