**Pura Vida in Papagayo: My Costa Rican GEM Adventure**
As 2024 kicks off, it’s my year of “revenge travel,” making up for all those missed moments during the pandemic. Turns out, the hard work paid off—Direct Travel Canada is sending me on a luxe GEM trip to Costa Rica for “Going the Extra Mile”!
This trip isn’t just about play (though there’s plenty of that); it’s filled with business dinners and networking with industry leaders. Here’s a peek into my adventure, filled with a perfect mix of work and well-deserved relaxation.
*Costa Rica, Day One: Settling into Paradise**
Mondays are looking a lot better in Costa Rica! Kicked off the day with emails and some inspiring client calls, then made my escape on a boat ride to Casa Playa with my colleagues. We settled into “veg mode,” enjoying a poolside lunch before some tropical rain sent us shuttling between pools.
Wrapped up the day with a lively dinner at Chao Pascao, chatting with the fabulous AMA Waterways team, and a nightcap at Ostra. Blissful start!
**Day Two: Costa Rican Bliss & Business Mix**
A day of pure relaxation: client catch-ups, a dip in the pool, and a blissful massage to get fully into the Costa Rican spirit.
After honing my coffee skills with some local beans, we headed to La Piazza for a business dinner. This trip might be about business, but it’s also about soaking up everything Costa Rica has to offer.
**Midweek Costa Rica: An Eco Adventure**
Wednesday kicked off with breakfast before a scenic drive through Guanacaste’s rolling fields.
At Hacienda El Viejo Wetlands, we joined a tranquil boat tour with views of sugarcane farms and the Rio Tempisque. Our guide, Gustavo, shared his passion for conservation and the delicate ecosystem of the wetlands. A rum tasting and cultural tour followed, giving us a glimpse into Costa Rican traditions.
With the day full of experiences, we squeezed in a quick refresh before dinner. A perfect balance of adventure and insight!
**Farewell Day: Costa Rican Adventures**
My final day was the ultimate send-off: breakfast with the monkeys, a thrilling zip line adventure, and some quality poolside relaxation at the Beach Club.
The grand finale? A management Q&A and a festive closing party to toast the unforgettable GEM experience in Costa Rica.
Thank you, Direct Travel and Costa Rica, for an inspiring and energizing journey—Pura Vida!
