In a world filled with postcard-perfect destinations, Costa Rica stands out—not just for its lush rainforests or golden beaches, but for something intangible: the friendliness of its people. Named the #1 friendliest country in the world by the 2024 Condé Nast Traveller Readers’ Choice Awards, Costa Rica invites you to experience its charm, where the welcoming warmth of locals is as constant as the sunshine.
Pura Vida, a Way of Life
It’s more than just a phrase. Pura Vida, meaning “pure life,” is woven into the very fabric of Costa Rican culture. It’s about finding joy in simple things, slowing down, and embracing life with open arms. Whether you’re sipping coffee in a bustling café or hiking through misty cloud forests, expect to be met with a smile and a genuine sense of hospitality that stays with you long after you leave.
Where to Experience Costa Rica’s Friendliest Sanctuaries
At Sandglass Hotels & Villas Collection, our sanctuaries embody the essence of Pura Vida and offer explorers a truly immersive experience in Costa Rica’s heart and soul.
Perched high in the Monteverde Cloud Forest, Koora is a hotel with 24 bungalows and suites, offering a one-of-a-kind opportunity to wake up in the clouds, surrounded by nature at its most genuine and elegant. Eco-conscious yet refined, Koora invites you to breathe in the misty air and explore the rich biodiversity that makes this region so unique—all while being cared for by a team that embodies Costa Rica’s famed hospitality.
For those seeking an even more intimate escape, Casa Anjali in Manuel Antonio is the perfect private hideaway. Set between the jungle and the Pacific, this villa offers complete privacy with all the bespoke touches you’d expect from a retreat rooted in natural elegance. Imagine dining under the stars, guided by your private chef, or wandering through lush trails with a local expert who knows the landscape intimately. Here, Pura Vida is more than just a saying—it’s your reality.
And coming soon, Tibo, opening its doors in December 2025, will offer an unparalleled experience in the heart of Costa Rica’s stunning landscapes. Designed with peace and relaxation in mind, Tibo will be a serene retreat where guests can disconnect from the world and reconnect with themselves, all while basking in the warmth of Costa Rican service.
In the Papagayo Peninsula, The Hive Private Residence provides a secluded haven with sweeping ocean views and tailored experiences that make every moment unforgettable. Whether it’s a personalized adventure through nearby beaches or a private dinner at sunset, The Hive is designed for those who want to savor Costa Rica’s natural beauty, wrapped in the genuine warmth of its people.
Ready to Explore Costa Rica’s Famous Friendliness?
Costa Rica’s beauty isn’t just in its landscape, it’s in the way you’re greeted with open arms and treated like family. At Koora, Casa Anjali, Tibo, and The Hive Private Residence, part of the Sandglass Hotels & Villas Collection, you’ll feel the warmth of Costa Rica the moment you arrive. Whether you’re seeking adventure or quiet reflection, this is a place where Pura Vida thrives in every corner.