Written by DLX special contributor, Nancy Barkley, owner and founder of Honeymoons and Getaways, a romance travel firm.
Aerial view of Secrets Papagayo. Photo courtesy of AM Resorts/Secrets Papagayo
When you combine the natural beauty of Costa Rica with the luxurious, adult only Secrets Papagayo, you experience the romantic trip of a lifetime. Whether for an engagement proposal, a destination wedding, honeymoon or just to be with that special someone, this resort is all about romance. The beautiful and gorgeous scenery, which you will view on the 20 minute ride from the airport, sets the tone for your romantic and exotic tropical getaway.
Main Pool. Image courtesy of AM Resorts/Secrets Papagayo
Upon arrival, you are greeted with a friendly smile and cold towel in the open air lobby with breathtaking views of the Gulf of Papagayo in this private and secure location. The staff cannot do enough for you, and they truly make your stay exceptional. After checking in, we were whisked away to our tropical dreamy bungalow which I fell in love with at first sight. Set amid lush flora and fauna, the birds and monkeys in the trees seemed to welcome us with their songs and howling. The interior of the bungalow does not disappoint. A king size bed accompanied by pillow menu service, stocked refrigerator, smart TV, spacious bathroom, robes, slippers, private furnished terrace, all provide that pampering experience that you desire.
Bungalow suite with ocean view. Image courtesy of AM Resorts/Secrets Papagayo
What to do next? You can do absolutely nothing, or everything. I started with a leisurely stroll through the property surrounded by lush mountains and was delighted to discover a charming swing in a romantic hidden nook. After just 2 minutes, I could literally feel the tension and stress of everyday life disappearing. Speaking of stress disappearing, the lavish spa, Pevonia, perched on the hilltop, is exceptional. There are so many wonderful treatment and packages to choose, you might need to spend the day! A 90 minute massage by Maria will leave you feeling relaxed and rejuvenated. Immediately outside of the spa, you’ll find a wonderful relaxation pool complimented by a restaurant offering healthy gourmet cuisine and drinks.
Outdoor Spa Area. Image courtesy of AM Resorts/Secrets Papagayo
All restaurants offer international gourmet cuisine and premium beverages, or you can choose to relax in your room all night and take advantage of 24 hour room service which can be delivered in your secret door of your bungalow.
Activities here are endless: bicycle tours, hiking trails, yoga, kayaking, beach volleyball, fitness center, cooking lessons, wine tastings, and nightly entertainment. There is truly something fun to experience for couples.
Looking for romance with the one you love? You couldn’t pick a better locale. Private beachfront candlelit dinners, relaxing on beds on the erotic volcanic black sand beach, couple massages in a secluded serene area, breakfast in bed, or long walks through the lush gardens. It’s the perfect place to write your own love story.
Romantic dinner by the ocean. Image courtesy of AM Resorts/Secrets Papagayo
The resort offers the perfect picturesque backdrop for an exquisite wedding. Intimate receptions can be held on the terrace or on the beach for a wedding that guests will be talking about for years to come.
Wedding reception spa garden. Image courtesy of AM Resorts/Secrets Papagayo