Costa Rica : Andaz Papagayo Resort
If you’ve been following along with Wear + Where + Well since the beginning, you might remember me singing the praises of the Papagayo Peninsula in Costa Rica in one of my first articles here. Easy to get to, beautiful scenery, and such kind people have made it one of my happy places to visit.
I just love staying at the Andaz Papagayo Resort. While the peninsula itself is located on the Pacific side of Costa Rica, the Andaz Resort is nestled on the east side of the peninsula overlooking the Culebra Bay. Some of the most beautiful sunrises I’ve ever seen have been witnessed here.
The resort was built upon three principles: to be (1) inspiring, (2) indigenous, and (3) free of barriers. In my view, the resort succeeded on all the counts! The hotel’s unique design is so refreshing. The accommodations are incorporated seamlessly into the natural setting. In addition, the staff at Andaz Papagayo could not be more authentically hospitable. In fact, the people are so warm and welcoming that I have been fortunate enough to forge friendships there. This place definitely has a special place in my heart.
For more tips on where to go, what to do, and what to eat while you’re there, be sure to check out this post. For now, I’ll let the photos speak for themselves.
Costa Rica : Fashion Details
I just love how laid back and casual this place is. Would you believe that I didn’t pack a single pair of heels or any make-up (except some tinted moisturizer with SPF, mascara, and lipstick) for this trip? Gasp! It’s true. A few swimsuits, a coverup, and a few breezy dresses and you’re ready to go!
From a fashion perspective, I just I just From a fashion perspective, I clearly leaned towards Mara Hoffman for this trip. Her bright colors and bold prints seemed to suit the mood well for this tropical destination. For the most part, I just paired some of her pieces with some accessories from Sensi Studio. Plus, I had to throw in these fun Edie Parker beach towels I stumbled upon at One Kings Lane.
Shop the Looks
Have you ever been to Costa Rica? Have you been to this part of the country? I’d love to hear your thoughts.
Also, please note that I’ve updated the boutique section of the site. Going forward, I’ll plan to update on the first of each month (at least), so you’ll always have an updated selection of my seasonal favorites. Let me know if there is anything specific you’d like to see.
Thanks for stopping by! It’s always a treat to hear from you. Have a great week.
Photos by The Point Shots – truly talented young brothers whom I’m glad to call friends now
beautiful photos! I definitely need to visit soon!
http://heyprettything.com
Thanks so much, Carolyn! Such a lovely place and lovely people.
HI Carrie,
Nice to read your blog post this morning!
Beautiful photos – looks like an awesome time.
I’ve had my eye on those Rebecca Minkoff sandals. They are getting good reviews and the price is reasonable.
Have a good Monday.
Sheri
Thanks, Sheri! A full week of posts in store. 🙂
On the sandals, mine are actually older Valentino sandals (a style they no longer make). But I have heard really good things about these Rebecca Minkoff ones. They are a great alternative to the rockstuds.
Speaking of, I see now that the original link I posted to the sandals had limited sizes. Here’s a link to them with availability in all sizes:
Rebecca Minkoff sandals at Nordstrom
Ah, thank you!
xo
Anytime! Hugs –
Carrie these pictures are stunning and you look amazing! This resort is definitively going on my list of places to visit!
Xo Ally
http://www.allysoninwonderland.com
Ah, thank you, Ally!
Yes, definitely add it to your list… It’s such a super easy trip from Houston – just a couple hour flight nonstop. And my little sister actually flew from OKC to Houston, and it was still a pretty easy trip for her.
Have a great week!
Hi Carrie,
How do you pack your hats and keep them from getting ruined? You mentioned you only take a carry-on. I would love a post on your packing techniques.
Thank you!
Great question, Cheryl!
I actually borrowed this Panama hat from my sister who was traveling with me. 🙂 Shaped hats like this are more problematic to pack, as any pressure on the hat can really damage the shape. So, if I were to take a hat like this, I’d probably just wear it on the plane or at least carry it with me.
I really find big floppy hats like this one easier to pack! Again, I often just carry one hat with me. But if I have to pack a hat like this, here’s what I do…
I turn it upside down and stuff the head part of it with swimsuits and such to help it hold its shape. I place the hat (upside down in the center of my carry on, with other items packed all around it on the sides. Then, I gently fold the brim edges over and end.
It seems to work great for me! If I have minor creasing, I’ll just take the hat in the bathroom with me to steam while I take a hot shower. I’ve never had any issues! Hope that helps. Xo –
I’ve never been to Costa Rica, but have been dying to visit! I absolutely love your outfits and the gorgeous photos (and obviously, the towel). xo
Many thanks, Ailee! It’s actually such an easy trip from Houston.
And isn’t the towel fun? Did you see that it comes in more colors and words? Love it. 🙂
Wow! I love the vivid colors and scenery. Amazing sunnies too. Thanks for sharing.
Eye See Euphoria | http://eyeseeeuphoria.com/post/subjective-reality
Thank you! I actually borrowed the Ray Bans from my little sister. Ha.
HI Carrie,
I don’t know if there is a glitch or something, but when I go to your boutique and click on one of the beautiful dresses from the Outnet (below the towel)it just takes me to the Outnet and not the actual item.
Just wanted you to be aware 🙂
Sheri
Hmmm… I’ll double check that. Can you tell me which dress? (The arrangement of the items changes each time.)
Thank you!
Ok, your body is INSANE! Love this post and that towel is just too cute.
x
Emily Jenny
Stiletto Beats
Emily – you are too sweet! Blushing – in a good way. 😉 Thank you, girl.
Isn’t the Edie Parker towel fun? Did you see that it comes in other colors and phrases?
Have a great day.
What an amazing vacation! Adding this resort to my “must visit” list — along with your entire packing list. Starting with that amazing towel!
Great post Carrie — I feel like I’m almost in Central America with you!
Sed Bona
Thanks, Ashley!
Isn’t the Edie Parker towel fun? Did you see it comes in other words and colors? Love it.
And definitely try to visit! It’s a pretty easy trip from Houston (and I know it’s easy to get from Chicago to Houston). And then it’s just so laid back and relaxing.
Have a great day!
great pics! Looks like such a fun trip!
xx
Merritt
The Style Scribe
Thanks! Yes, so fun – and such an easy trip from Houston.
It works now Carrie! It was the Missoni that is on Net A Porter. I think when I clicked on it yesterday it just went to the home page of Outnet. Weird.
Oh good! Thanks for always looking out for me. 🙂