Escape to Paradise: Montelaguna's Luxury Awaits in Costa Rica
Escape to Paradise: Montelaguna's Luxury Awaits in Costa Rica - A Real Review (Because Let's Be Honest, Perfection is Boring)
Okay, buckle up buttercups, because I just got back from a stay at Montelaguna in Costa Rica, and I'm here to spill the beans. Forget those perfectly polished travel blogs – you're getting the real deal, warts and all. Think of this as your pre-trip pep talk and post-trip therapy session all rolled into one.
Accessibility: (The First Hurdle, and Thankfully, Mostly Jumped)
Right, so first things first, accessibility. This is HUGE for me, and thankfully, Montelaguna makes a decent effort. They do have "Facilities for disabled guests," which is promising. The elevator is a lifesaver, especially if you're on a high floor (and trust me, the views from the high floors are worth fighting for). I'd advise calling ahead to confirm specifics and make sure your needs are met – always a good idea!
On-site Eats & Lounging: (Food, Glorious Food… and Booze!)
Let's talk about the important stuff – sustenance! Montelaguna has a bunch of options. They've got restaurants, a poolside bar (essential!), and even a coffee shop. I'm a sucker for a good Western breakfast, which they absolutely nail. Think fluffy pancakes, crispy bacon, and enough coffee to fuel a small army. They also boast Asian cuisine in restaurant, which I didn't try, but it's there! The bar is well-stocked, and I may or may not have spent a few too many hours there during happy hour. (Don't judge. You'll understand after a few days of pure relaxation.) Room service [24-hour] is a godsend. Especially when you've had a few too many cocktails at the pool!
Wheelchair Accessible? (The Fine Print)
I didn't personally test the wheelchair accessibility, but the information is somewhat vague. Always double-check with the hotel directly. They seem to be trying, but it's not always a guarantee.
Internet Access: (Because We're Still Glued to Our Phones, Aren't We?)
Free Wi-Fi in all rooms! Hallelujah! And it actually works! I mean, it's not lightning-fast, but hey, you're in Costa Rica, not the Matrix. You can also get Internet [LAN] if you're old school. Wi-Fi in public areas is also a plus, for those Instagram moments by the pool.
Things to Do & Ways to Relax: (The Reason We're Here!)
Okay, this is where Montelaguna really shines. This is where the "Escape to Paradise" part kicks in. Let's start with the obvious: Swimming pool (outdoor, obviously), Pool with view (yes, please!), and Gym/fitness. I tried to go to the gym, but… the pool won. Every. Single. Time.
But the real magic happens in the Spa. Oh, the Spa! I'm not typically a spa person, but I was converted. Seriously, I may have wept during my massage. The Body scrub was pure bliss. The Sauna and Steamroom are perfect for detoxing after a few too many margaritas. They even have a Foot bath! It's like they knew exactly what I needed. I'm not sure if they have Body wrap or not, I didn't see it on the menu.
Cleanliness & Safety: (Because, You Know, Life)
In the age of… well, everything, cleanliness is paramount. Montelaguna seems to take this seriously. They offer Anti-viral cleaning products, Daily disinfection in common areas, Hand sanitizer everywhere you turn, and Rooms sanitized between stays. They also have Staff trained in safety protocol, and Doctor/nurse on call (thankfully, I didn't need them, but it's reassuring). Sanitized kitchen and tableware items. They even have Safe dining setup. I saw Individually-wrapped food options, which is a nice touch. Hot water linen and laundry washing is always a good thing. They have Hygiene certification, and Physical distancing of at least 1 meter. Professional-grade sanitizing services. Room sanitization opt-out available. This is all good news.
Dining, Drinking, and Snacking: (Fueling the Paradise Experience)
The restaurants are varied, and you can get A la carte in restaurant or Buffet in restaurant. They have Coffee/tea in restaurant, Desserts in restaurant, and Soup in restaurant. The Poolside bar is a MUST. The Snack bar is perfect for a quick bite. I'm not sure if they have Asian breakfast or Vegetarian restaurant, I didn't look for them.
Services & Conveniences: (Making Life Easier)
Montelaguna is loaded with services. Air conditioning in public area, Concierge, Daily housekeeping, Doorman, Elevator, Facilities for disabled guests, Gift/souvenir shop, Laundry service, Luggage storage, and Meeting/banquet facilities, and a Terrace. They also have Cash withdrawal, Currency exchange, Dry cleaning, Invoice provided, Ironing service, Meeting stationery, On-site event hosting, and Safety deposit boxes. Smoking area. They even have Car park [free of charge], and Car park [on-site].
For the Kids: (Because Family Vacations Can Be Paradise, Too)
They're Family/child friendly, and have Kids facilities, and a Babysitting service. I didn't use these, but it's great to know they're available.
Access: (Getting In and Out of There)
CCTV in common areas, CCTV outside property, Check-in/out [express], Check-in/out [private], Exterior corridor, Fire extinguisher, Front desk [24-hour], Hotel chain, Non-smoking rooms, Proposal spot, Safety/security feature, Security [24-hour], Smoke alarms, Soundproof rooms.
Getting Around: (Getting There and Getting Away)
Airport transfer, Bicycle parking, Car park [free of charge], Car park [on-site], Car power charging station, Taxi service, Valet parking.
Available in All Rooms: (The Little Luxuries)
Additional toilet, Air conditioning, Alarm clock, Bathrobes, Bathroom phone, Bathtub, Blackout curtains, Carpeting, Closet, Coffee/tea maker, Complimentary tea, Daily housekeeping, Desk, Extra long bed, Free bottled water, Hair dryer, High floor, In-room safe box, Interconnecting room(s) available, Internet access – LAN, Internet access – wireless, Ironing facilities, Laptop workspace, Linens, Mini bar, Mirror, Non-smoking, On-demand movies, Private bathroom, Reading light, Refrigerator, Safety/security feature, Satellite/cable channels, Scale, Seating area, Separate shower/bathtub, Shower, Slippers, Smoke detector, Socket near the bed, Sofa, Soundproofing, Telephone, Toiletries, Towels, Umbrella, Visual alarm, Wake-up service, Wi-Fi [free], Window that opens.
The Quirks & Imperfections (Because, Real Life)
Okay, so it's not perfect. The service can be a little… relaxed at times. Don't expect things to happen instantly. Embrace the pura vida! And, on one occasion, the air conditioning in my room decided to take a vacation of its own. But honestly? It's part of the charm. It’s a reminder that you're in a place that's meant to be enjoyed.
My "Oh My God" Moment (Or, Why I'm Already Planning My Return)
Okay, here's the thing that really got me. I'm a city person, used to the constant hum of noise. But one morning, I woke up in my room (a high floor room, naturally) and opened the window that opens. The sun was streaming in, birds were chirping, and I could smell the ocean. It was… breathtaking. That moment, that simple, perfect moment, is what I'll remember. That's what made me want to book another stay.
The Verdict: (Would I Go Back?)
Absolutely. Despite the minor hiccups, Montelaguna delivers on its promise. It's a place to truly escape. A place to relax, recharge, and reconnect with yourself (and maybe enjoy a few too many cocktails).
The Offer: (Book Now and Embrace Paradise!)
**Escape to Paradise: Montelaguna
West Palm Beach: Your Ultimate Florida Paradise Awaits!
Okay, buckle up buttercup, because this isn't your sanitized, Instagram-filtered travel itinerary. This is the REAL DEAL. Montelaguna Boutique Hotel in Puerto Carrillo, Costa Rica? Hell yeah, we're going! And it's gonna be messy, beautiful, and probably involve a few near-disasters. Here we go…
The Montelaguna Mishap-Venture: A Costa Rican Rhapsody (or, How I Learned to Stop Worrying and Love the Humidity)
Pre-Trip Shenanigans (aka, the Panic Before Paradise):
Phase 1: The Booking Black Hole: So, I saw this place, Montelaguna, and the photos? GORGEOUS. Infinity pool overlooking the jungle, rooms that look like they're straight out of a design magazine. Booked it. Then, the pre-trip anxiety set in. Did I book the right dates? Did I accidentally book a room with a scorpion under the bed? (Okay, maybe that was just my overactive imagination.)
Phase 2: The Packing Purgatory: Packing for Costa Rica is a nightmare. Sunscreen, bug spray, rain gear, the perfect beach hat (essential!), and a small mountain of "just in case" items. I probably overpacked by a good 20 pounds. I'm pretty sure I brought a formal gown. Seriously, who needs a formal gown in the jungle?
Phase 3: The Flight from Hell (or, How I Almost Missed the Damn Plane): Let's just say I'm not a morning person. Or a person who functions well before copious amounts of coffee. Running through the airport, yelling at my luggage, and narrowly avoiding a collision with a small child? Yep, that was me. Made the flight, though! Victory!
Day 1: Arrival and Jungle Bliss (and Mosquito Bites)
Afternoon (ish): Arrived at Montelaguna. The air hit me like a warm, humid hug. The hotel? Even more beautiful in person. Check-in was smooth, the staff were lovely (even after I tripped over a rogue paving stone and nearly took out a potted plant). Our room? Oh. My. God. Jungle views, a balcony, and a hammock that I promptly claimed as my personal throne.
The Pool Debacle: The infinity pool! It was calling my name. Jumped in. Bliss. Except… I forgot to put on enough sunscreen. Cue the lobster-red shoulders and the silent, internal scream. Lesson learned: Reapply. Constantly.
Evening: Dinner at the hotel restaurant. The food? Incredible. Fresh seafood, local fruits, and the most delicious coffee I've ever tasted. Sat on the balcony, listening to the jungle sounds. A symphony of chirps, croaks, and the occasional screech. Magical. And then… the mosquitoes attacked. Oh, the mosquitoes. They were relentless. I became dinner.
- Rambling Thought: Seriously, the mosquitoes in Costa Rica are next-level. They're like tiny, buzzing vampires. I swear they were plotting my demise. Bug spray is not a suggestion, it's a requirement.
Day 2: Beach Day and Turtle Dreams (and a Near-Disaster with a Coconut)
Morning: Explored Puerto Carrillo beach. The sand was soft, the water was warm, and the waves were perfect for a novice surfer like myself (read: I mostly fell off the board). The beach was gorgeous, and the vibe was so chill.
The Coconut Incident: Okay, so I thought I was being all adventurous and got a coconut. Tried to open it myself. Epic fail. It was like trying to break into Fort Knox. Ended up with a sore hand and a very bruised ego. Thankfully, a kind local helped me out. He probably thought I was a complete idiot. He wasn't wrong.
Afternoon: Turtle watching tour! This was a highlight. Seeing those majestic creatures nesting on the beach, watching them lay their eggs… it was incredibly moving. The sheer size of the turtles was unbelievable, and the whole experience just cemented that I'd made the right choice to visit Costa Rica.
Evening: Back at the hotel, dinner, and another assault by the mosquito army. I am beginning to think I need to invest in a full-body mosquito net.
Day 3: Jungle Hike and Waterfall Wonders (and My Existential Crisis)
Morning: Hiked through the jungle. The trails were muddy, the air was thick, and I sweated… a lot. But the scenery? Breathtaking. Towering trees, vibrant flowers, and the constant, insistent chatter of monkeys. I kept expecting a dinosaur to jump out.
The Waterfall Revelation: Found a waterfall. Took a dip in the cool, refreshing water. And, for a brief moment, I felt… at peace. Like all the worries and anxieties of the world were washed away. It was a moment of pure, unadulterated bliss. Then, the bugs came back, and the peace was short-lived.
Afternoon/Evening: Back at the hotel, I had a long, hard look at myself in the mirror. The humidity had done a number on my hair. My skin was a combination of sunburn and mosquito bites. And I was starting to question everything. Why am I here? What is the meaning of life? Do I really need that formal gown? (The answer: No.)
Day 4: Relaxation and Departure (and the Bitter Sweet Goodbye)
Morning: Spent the morning relaxing by the pool, reading a book, and trying to remember what it felt like to be completely relaxed before all the bugs and humidity. The hotel staff were incredibly helpful, always smiling and making sure we were comfortable.
The Last Breakfast: Had the most amazing breakfast at the hotel. Fresh fruit, eggs, coffee… and a final view of the jungle before saying goodbye.
The Departure Drama: Packing was even harder than before. I had acquired souvenirs, plus I had to repack all the "just in case" items I hadn't even touched. The flight back? Smooth sailing (thank God). But as the plane took off, I felt a pang of sadness. I was going to miss the jungle, the beach, the weirdness, and the sheer, unadulterated beauty of Costa Rica.
Final Thoughts (aka, The Post-Trip Ramblings):
Montelaguna Boutique Hotel was fantastic. The staff, the food, the location, the views… all incredible. Would I go back? In a heartbeat. Even with the bugs, the humidity, and the near-disasters. Because Costa Rica, in all its messy, imperfect glory, is an experience you won't soon forget.
P.S. Bring extra bug spray. Seriously. And maybe a hazmat suit. Just kidding… mostly.
Escape to Paradise: TwoSpaces Living at deRos Resort & Cafe, Bogor
Escape to Paradise: Montelaguna - Your Questions Answered (and My Ramblings!)
Okay, let's be real. Planning a trip to Costa Rica? Montelaguna is on your radar? Smart choice. But, like, I get it. You've got questions. I've got (hopefully) helpful answers, mixed with a healthy dose of my own chaotic experience. Buckle up, buttercups. This is gonna get... real.
Is Montelaguna REALLY as luxurious as it looks in the photos?
Ugh, that question. Yes. And no. Let me explain, because the glossy brochure versus reality is a real thing, you know? The infinity pool? Killer. Just... killer. I spent a solid two hours just floating there, staring at the volcano. Pure bliss. But then, the first morning? I went for coffee at sunrise, and a hummingbird dive-bombed me. Right in the hair. So, luxury? Yes. But be prepared for the *real* Costa Rican version of luxury. It's wild, it's beautiful, it's a little messy. And sometimes, you get a hummingbird infestation in your morning ritual.
Also, the beds? Seriously comfortable. Like, "I could live here" comfortable. (And for a while, I considered it. Don't judge.)
What kind of activities are available at Montelaguna?
Okay, here's where things get interesting. They have the usual suspects: horseback riding, zip-lining, hiking. Fine, good stuff. But I'm telling you, the hidden gem? The coffee plantation tour. Forget the zip-lining for a second. Seriously. I'm not a coffee snob, but this was... transformative. I swear, I could *smell* the rainforest in that coffee. And the guide? This hilarious old dude named Ricardo, who had more stories than the Amazon has trees. He told me about the coffee cherries, the process, everything. And the best part? At the end, you get to taste it. Freshly brewed, in a little hut overlooking the valley. I nearly wept. Then I bought, like, five bags. Don't judge. Coffee is life.
Also, the spa. Just saying. Book a massage. You won't regret it.
Is it family-friendly? My kids are... active.
Hmmm. This is a tough one. "Active" is a euphemism, right? Look, Montelaguna is beautiful, but it's not a theme park. There's a pool, yes. But there's also a lot of nature. Like, *a lot*. Sloths in the trees. Monkeys swinging around. You know how kids are. Mine would have been climbing the volcano if I let them. So, family-friendly? Yes, in a "you need to keep an eye on them" kind of way. If your kids can appreciate the beauty of nature without trying to eat it, you're good. If they're the "I'm bored!" type, maybe bring a lot of activities. And a very strong babysitter.
What about the food? I'm a foodie!
Oh. My. Goodness. The food. Okay, so I have a confession. I'm a bit of a foodie. Like, I plan my vacations around restaurants. And the food at Montelaguna? Phenomenal. Fresh, local ingredients. Incredible flavors. One night, I had this grilled sea bass with passion fruit sauce that I'm *still* dreaming about. And the breakfast? Forget about it. Fresh fruit, gallo pinto (the Costa Rican staple), and, of course, that amazing coffee. Be prepared to gain five pounds. Worth every single bite. Seriously. Go hungry. You will not be disappointed.
How's the service? Are the staff friendly?
The service? Absolutely wonderful. The staff? So friendly. They're genuinely welcoming and helpful. They remembered my name after the first day. They’re patient with my terrible Spanish (because, let's be real, my Spanish is a disaster). They're always smiling. One time, I locked myself out of my room (classic me). They had someone there within minutes, with a smile and no judgment. They really go above and beyond to make you feel comfortable. It's that genuine Costa Rican hospitality that makes the whole experience so special.
Is it worth the price?
Okay, the million-dollar question. Is it expensive? Yes. Is it worth it? Ultimately, yes. It depends on your priorities. If you’re looking for a budget trip, this ain’t it. But if you want an experience? If you want to feel pampered, to reconnect with nature, to eat food that makes you want to weep with joy? Then yes. It's an investment in your well-being, your sanity, your happiness. Look, I saved for a long time to go. And I would do it again in a heartbeat. Consider it an investment in yourself. You deserve it. You really, really do. Just… maybe bring a second credit card. Kidding! (Mostly.)
What's the best time of year to go?
Okay, this is a practical one. The dry season (December to April) is generally considered the best. Sunny skies, minimal rain. Perfect for lounging by the pool and drinking cocktails. But I went in the shoulder season (May) and loved it! The rainforest was lush and green. The waterfalls were roaring. And there were fewer crowds. Yes, it rained a bit, but it was usually just in the afternoon and it was warm and refreshing. Plus, the colors were *unreal*. Honestly? I'd go anytime. Just be prepared for a little bit of weather. And pack a poncho. You'll need it. Trust me.
Any hidden costs I should be aware of?
Well, besides the fact that you'll want to buy everything in the gift shop (that's a given), be aware of the tours and activities. They add up. Spa treatments? Worth it, but not cheap. Drinks at the bar? Delicious, but again, not free. Tipping? Standard practice. So, factor those things into your budget. And, honestly? Bring a little extra cash. You'll probably want to tip the amazing staff who'll make you feel like royalty. And trust me, you'll want to. They deserve it.
Ocean View Inn
