Small Distinctive Hotels of Costa Rica

Happy Independence Day in Costa Rica!

2011-09-15T11:32:00.000-06:00

Each year on September 15th, Costa Rica (as well as El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras and Nicaragua) celebrates its independence from the Spanish rule.

190 years ago these countries were Spanish colonies, until a variety of factors led to their decision to separate from Spain. Among these factors were the strong control and tax system imposed by the Spanish government as well as the revolutionary ideas brought by the French revolution.

Once these new ideas reached the region, the ‘Captaincy General of Guatemala’ was formed. Its leaders, among which representatives from Costa Rica, began a negotiation process which eventually led to the drafting of the Act of Independence which was later recognized by the Spanish crown. On September 15th, 1821 the Declaration of Independence for all of Central America was finally signed in Guatemala.

September 15th is now a national holiday in Costa Rica and stage to a variety of colorful celebrations. Festivities begin on the night of September 14th, when a runner arrives from Nicaragua into the colonial capital of Cartago, handing over the “freedom torch” to the president in an official ceremony. After the national anthem is sung, a parade of faroles (candle lanterns made by children) is held on the streets and followed by dance performances of children in traditional costumes. The night is completed with the obligatory fireworks.

The next day, festivities continue when a larger parade takes place on the morning of September 15th with traditional music bands including trompets, drums and dance. If you happen to be in Costa Rica this day, we definitely recommend you to visit one of the parades which are being held in most districts. Take this chance to experience and be a part of real “Tico” celebrations!

We wish everyone a happy Costa Rican Independence Day!!

2011-08-29T16:14:00.000-06:00

Did you know that Small Distinctive Hotels is also active on Twitter? You can find us at @SDHCostaRica and the majority of our members hotels too!

To stay updated on the latest updates of your favourite hotels, simply click the links below to follow them:

Hotel Grano de Oro

San José

Twitter: @HotelGranodeOro

Arenas del Mar Beach and Nature Resort

Manuel Antonio

Twitter: @ArenasDelMar

Hotel Florblanca

Santa Teresa

Twitter: @HotelFlorblanca

Hotel Casa Turire

Turrialba

Twitter: @CasaTurire

Hotel Cuna del Angel

Dominical

Twitter: @CunadelAngel

Hotel Villa Caletas

Jacó

Twitter: @VillaCaletasCR

National Parks Day in Costa Rica

2011-08-24T17:13:00.002-06:00

Think of Costa Rica and you will probably see images of beautiful environments with lush green rainforests, breathtaking waterfalls, impressive volcanoes as well as exotic plants and flowers and captivating wildlife… And you are completely right! Costa Rica is indeed an ideal destination for those of us in search of natural beautiful surroundings.

Not only does Costa Rica offer the most amazing environmental landscapes, the country is moreover absolutely dedicated to preserving its natural treasures. One important way is that currently approximately 93 percent of its energy comes from alternative sources and the country is dedicated to becoming carbon-neutral by 2021. The country’s most valuable assets however are its national parks, did you know that nearly 25 percent of Costa Rica’s nature is protected as national parks? And to honor its special commitment of conserving its national parks, the country has dedicated an entire day to them, called the “Dia de las Parques Nacionales”, the Day of National Parks, which takes place today, August 24th.

To celebrate this special day, we would like to introduce to you the most special of Costa Rica’s national parks:

Manuel Antonio National Park

Located only seven kilometers southeast of Quepos, Manuel Antonio has one of the most beautiful beaches of the country, set against emerald-green forests and lush hillsides. Besides being blessed by nature, Manuel Antonio is also lucky when it comes to accommodations and facilities. Small Distinctive Hotels offers its highly luxurious and highly sustainable Arenas del Mar Beachfront and Rainforest Resort here.

Courtesy of Destination360.com

Braulio Carrillo National Park

The tropical rain forest of Braulio Carrillo is located only 20 kilometers northeast of the capital city of San José, which can be perfectly combined with our city boutique hotel Grano de Oro. This breathtaking flora and fauna sanctuary is an emerald-green mass of vegetation, tropical plants and waterfalls... Noone that visits the Braulio Carrillo National Park can escape feeling a sense of awe because of its beauty and magnitude.

Courtesy of Go2Costarica.com

Volcan Poas National Park

Volcan Poas offers a luxuriant forest surrounding two craters and four different habitats: areas with scarce vegetation, a stunted forest, a cloud forest, and an area without vegetation. Among the mammals found here are the coyotes, long-tailed weasels, skunks and some small felines. If you see a greenish-yellow squirrel, take a good look at it, because it’s the Poas green-yellow squirrel, and as its name suggests, it’s only found in this park, and nowhere else in the whole world! If you would like to continue enjoying Costa Rica’s nature, the nearby Peace Lodge with its stunning Waterfall Gardens is the place.

Courtesy of Destination360.com

Marino Ballena National Park

Marino Ballena National Park is named after the Humpback Whales that migrate here each year from December to April. Established in 1990, the park contains the largest coral reef on the Pacific side of Central America. The water just off shore provides wonderful snorkeling as the park is mostly oceanic, except for the mangrove and wildlife riddled 9.3 miles (15 km) of coastline. Located closeby this stunning national park lies our angelic Hotel Cuna del Angel.

Courtesy of Costaricatraveladvisors.net

Piedras Blancas National Park

Piedras Blancas National Park is a national park which is part of the Osa Conservation Area. The flora is among the richest on the planet, encompassing several thousand different species of plants and hundreds of trees. The park is also home to a number of rare trees, as well as all five species of cats (the ocelot, margay, jaguarundi, puma and jaguar) as well as toucans and scarlet macaws, kinkajous and coatis, white-faced capuchin and spider monkeys, as well as the two-toed sloth, anteater, and over 53 species of bats. It can be easily understood why the Osa region was described as “the most biologically intense place on earth” by magazine National Geographic. To immerse yourself in this beautiful spot of nature, Playa Nicuesa Rainforest Lodge provides the perfect experience.

Courtesy of Costarica-Nationalparks.com

Carara National Park

This national park is especially popular among birdwatchers, with high chances of spotting the rare and endangered Scarlet Macaw. The fact that the park is situated between two distinct ecosystems presents an opportunity to spot birds from both habitats. The name of the park derives from the indigenous Huetar language and means crocodiles, of which plenty can be spotted and almost year round on the Río Tarcoles. The excellent starting point for an expedition to this national park, is our highly luxurious Hotel Villa Caletas.

Courtesy of Costaricabureau.com

Turrialba National Park

The Turrialba volcano is one of the various active volcanoes of Costa Rica. Covered in dense vegetation, it looks out over an enormous area of mostly mountain rainforest. The various lava flows in Turrialba National Park still remind visitors of the once flowing rivers of hot magma. The hiking trails around the park provide plenty of opportunities to watch the typical smaller Costa Rican wildlife. When reaching the summit, spectacular 360-degree views await you. Our member Hotel Casa Turire is perfectly located for excursions to this exciting national park.

Courtesy of Addictedtotravel.com

Marino las Baulas National Park

This national park is located on the Pacific coast and named after the leatherback sea turtles that nest here every year. They are the largest marine reptiles and also the most endangered. The park consists of roughly 445 hectares of mangrove swamps and coastlines and is made up of four beaches. Besides the impressive leatherbacks, crocodiles, capuchin monkeys, and raccoons are among the typical animals that can be spotted at this national park. Trips to this impressive national park can be undertaken from Hotel Capitan Suizo in Tamarindo.

Courtesy of Go2Costarica.com

Cabo Blanco Nature Reserve

The Cabo Blanco Nature Reserve is situated at the extreme southern tip of the Nicoya Peninsula. Not only does it rank among the most beautiful reserves of Costa Rica, it was also the first protected area of the country in 1963. The forest is classified as moist tropical forest and is home to a large variety of animals such as white-tailed deer, pacas, armadillos, anteaters, howler, spider and capuchin monkeys, collared peccary, coyotes, porcupines, raccoons and coatis. With a keen eye you can find traces of ocelots, jaguarundis or margay cats. To view all these exotic animals up close, we recommend you book your stay at Florblanca Resort and take a journey from there.

Courtesy of Nicoyapeninsula.com

A Well-Kept Secret in Manuel Antonio

2011-07-15T13:07:00.000-06:00

Costa Rica is home to a wide variety of tropical beaches, lush rainforests, verdant mountain sceneries, waterfalls, volcanoes and many more natural attractions, a great part of which lie protected in national parks. One of the most popular and impressive national parks is the Manuel Antonio National Park located on the Pacific Coast of Costa Rica. With its enormous biodiversity and well-maintain pathways this park is an all-time favorite among visitors to the Manuel Antonio area. What if we were to tell you however, that this area hosts yet another wonderful though less well-known impressive- national park?

The Rainmaker Reserve is one of the area’s best kept secrets. A privately-owned rainforest reserve, it hosts one of the last primary rainforests in Costa Rica and forms a true refuge for a wide variety of rare plants and animals. For instance, did you know that this park is home to 60% of all the flora and fauna species found in Costa Rica?

The main purpose of this neo-tropical rainforest whose landscapes range from humid rain forest to misty cloud forest, is sustainable development. The Rainmaker Conservation Project, located in San Rafael Norte moreover actively supports the teachers and school in order to create awareness for the importance of rainforest conservation to those whose everyday existence is threatened by its loss.

Only five percent of this natural reserve is open for tourism and offers a system of trails along the Río Seco River, completed by wooden bridges which allow you to traverse this enchanting jungle… The capturing views of the coastline, fresh mountain streams, splendid waterfalls and the astonishing beauty of the rainforest make this reserve the ideal destination for nature lovers.

The perfect way to explore this naturally beautiful area of Costa Rica, is with a stay in the Arenas del Mar Beachfront and Rainforest Resort located right at the beach of Manuel Antonio. This luxurious and highly sustainable resort has very recently launched a new tour to the unique Rainforest Reserve.

The Conservation Project located in San Rafael Norte moreover actively supports the teachers and school in order to create awareness for the importance of rainforest conservation to those whose everyday existence is threatened by its loss.

Promoción Nueva para Nacionales y Residentes!

2011-07-05T14:01:00.000-06:00

A partir del 1 hasta el 31 de Julio, Small Distinctive Hotels, Cayuga Sustainable Hospitality, Café Britt y Fresh Market, se han unido para crear la promoción “Relaja tus Sentidos.”

Busca en todos los locales de Fresh Market los productos de Café Britt y con tu tiquete de caja y datos personales quedas participando en la rifa de 10 fines de semana en uno de los exclusivos y hermosos hoteles de Small Distinctive Hotels o Cayuga Sustainable Hospitality.

Hoteles:

1. Villa Caletas

2. Casa Turire

3. Cuna del Angel

4. Capitán Suizo

5. Florblanca

6. Playa Nicuesa Rainforest Lodge

7. Peace Lodge

8. Hotel Harmony

9. Lapa Ríos

10. Latitud 10

Los premios incluyen:

2 noches en una habitación doble incluyendo:

2 desayunos por persona

2 cenas por persona

1 almuerzo por persona

Los Fresh Markets se encuentran en las siguientes localidades:

Rohrmoser Oeste

Santa Ana

Pinares

Multipark

Curridabat

Rohrmoser Anunciatura

Paco

Escazú

Sabanilla

“Relaja tus Sentidos” Disfrutando los mejores cafés gourmet de Costa Rica, los deliciosos dulces y chocolates de Café Britt, y la posibilidad de un escape de descanso a los mejores hoteles estilo boutique del país. Más informaciones y el reglamento de la promoción se encuentran aqui.

Small Distinctive Hotels' Coffee Tasting at Café Britt

2011-06-17T17:35:00.000-06:00

Recently, the Small Distinctive Hotels Team and its members met at the Café Britt headquarters in Heredia where the entire Small Distinctive Hotels Group had the opportunity to taste the high-quality coffee provided by Café Britt:

With 6 empty cups before us, we little by little became more acquainted with the diverse tastes of this Costa Rican gourmet coffee. The grind, fresh beans were first pressed in a French Coffee Press for best taste as we learned. We learned about the process of growing excellent coffee beans, for instance how altitude affects the quality of the beans, as well as about the roasting process, followed by a tasting of the various roasts from the characteristic and mild light-roasted to the more sweet and chocolaty dark-roasted beans, as well as decafeinated coffee and finishing with a gourmet espresso.

For the coffee lovers among us, here is an overview of the different and distinct coffee flavors Café Britt features:

Café Britt Dark Roast embodies the tradition of gourmet Costa Rican coffee. Aged red wine, figs and dried fruits mellow its robust aroma. Its full-bodied flavor of strong coffee and dark chocolate makes for an intense taste sensation. This classic blend takes its leave with distinction and elegance.

Café Britt Light Roast A great way to start your day! With an aroma reminiscent of freshly picked limes and flavor that hints of caramel and apricot, this blend enlivens the senses like a crisp sunrise. Firm of character, this high-mountain blend lingers on the palate, with a pleasant, subtle citrus finish.

Café Britt Tarrazu is a blend for the coffee connoisseurs with a penchant for perfection. Grown in the rich volcanic soils of Costa Rica’s famed Tarrazu region, these choice Arabica coffee cherries are ripened evenly at 1,400 to 1,600 meters, hand-picked, sun dried and dark roasted for a unique taste. Café Britt Tarrazu will surprise you with a flavor that hints of cacao and grapefruit and an aroma of aged wood and dark chocolate. Its intensity fills the palate, then fades cheerfully.

Café Britt Decaffeinated Enjoy the taste of Costa Rican export-quality coffee without the caffeine. Café Britt Decaffeinated is carefully dark roasted for a delicate, clean taste hinting of honey and clove. An aroma of the seeds and dry leaves evokes a serene autumn afternoon. Its complexity intensifies as it cools, for a finish tinged with nostalgia.

Costa Rica Espresso Roast. It’s widely recognized that the natural sweetness and acidity of Costa Rica’s high-mountain Arabica beans make some of the world's best espresso. Café Britt enhances this uniqueness by carefully selecting and slowly roasting only the choicest gourmet coffee beans for a full-bodied flavor and ultra-rich consistency. Immerse you senses with a sip straight-up, or dressed up as a cappuccino, latte or café au lait.

The beautiful coffee farm, interesting and entertaining coffee tour as well as of course the delicious coffee, make the Café Britt farm a great place to visit on your next vacation to Costa Rica!

Green Season Specials!

2011-05-17T13:24:00.001-06:00

Hotel Capitan Suizo:

May 15th to December 15, 2011

A couple massage (40 minutes) at Aromas del Mar Beach Front Spa
One romantic candlelight dinner for 2 people at the hotel beachfront restaurant*
A 10% discount in the hotel´s gift shop
Complementary Boogie boards, kayaks and bicycles
Daily Buffet Breakfast

Special Conditions:

Special package is available from May 15th to December 15, 2011.
4 nights stay is required
Special package applies only for new bookings from this communication.
Promotions based in double occupancy.
Promotion applies to all room categories.
This promotion can not be combined with other promotions.
Rates according the rack rates 2011 published (commissionable)

*Complementary Dinner includes an appetizer, a main dish and a dessert, clients will be able to choose “A la Carte” from our regular menu. Beverages are not included
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Peace Lodge
Until May 31, 2011

50 minutes in room massages for only $30 per person.
Stay 3 nights and get a Free Waterfall Gardens Guided Tour
Stay 3 nights and get half price on our Poás Volcano and Doka Coffee Plantation Tour

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Hotel Villa Caletas
From April 24 2011

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Florblanca Resort
May 1st - December 14th 2011

If you stay 5 nights, the 5th night is free!
The resort does accept kids 6 years and older during this season.

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Arenas del Mar Beachfront and Rainforest Resort

April 25th - November 20th 2011

Complementary full a la carte breakfast and two tours that should not be missed: Tortillas at Petatillo and “Easy Being Green” Tour. Free Internet and free international calls also included in the rate.

Small Distinctive Hotel Members on Twitter!

2011-05-17T11:17:00.004-06:00

Did you know that many of our hotel members are also on Twitter?

To stay updated on the latest updates of your favourite hotels, simply click the links below to follow them:

Hotel Grano de Oro

San José

Twitter: @HotelGranodeOro

Arenas del Mar Beach and Nature Resort

Manuel Antonio

Twitter: @ArenasDelMar

Hotel Florblanca

Santa Teresa

Twitter: @HotelFlorblanca

Hotel Casa Turire

Turrialba

Twitter: @CasaTurire

Hotel Cuna del Angel

Dominical

Twitter: @CunadelAngel

Hotel Villa Caletas

Jacó

Twitter: @VillaCaletasCR

Hotel Capitan Suizo in Tamarindo - Tours & Activities

2011-05-16T14:36:00.001-06:00

Hotel Capitan Suizo is one of the few beach resorts located directly on Tamarindo, one of Costa Rica`s most beautiful and popular beaches. But even though Tamarindo is famous for its beach life, there are a plenty of other activities to undertake during your stay here... Capitan Suizo offers a variety of exciting and fascinating tours which can be booked directly from the hotel. For the activities offered in and around the hotel, you can directly scroll down to the bottom. Have fun!

Explore Costa Rica`s national park in surprising new ways and get acquainted with its typical wildlifeEstuary Tour at Tamarindo Wildlife Refuge

This two-hour boat ride will take you through waterways surrounded by mangrove vegetation, water birds, monkeys and iguanas. Turtle nesting at Marino Las Baulas National Park (during season). This tour takes place at the Marino Las Baulas National Park and it focuses on the natural

history and protection of the Leatherback Sea Turtle, the largest reptile on the planet.

Rincón de la Vieja National Park (Hiking)

Hike through the foothills of the nearest active volcano in the province of Guanacaste and admire the secondary activity of this volcano such us fumaroles, mud pots, and bubbling hot water.

Canopy and Hot Springs at Rincón de la Vieja

Check out the tropical forest in a different way by riding through the canopy of the forest on sliding cable lines connected to platforms built in the treetops. Experience a volcanic mud bath and enjoy the thermal water of the natural hot springs surrounded by tropical scenery.

Palo Verde National Park

This tour consists of a boat trip on the Tempisque River at Palo Verde National Park. It focuses on watching and learning about the species that inhabit this area such as water birds, crocodiles, iguanas and monkeys.

Tenorio Volcano National Park

The main attractions of this national park are a blue water waterfall and other sightseeing spots such as: hot water springs, forest crickets, a blue water lagoon and a blue river originated by the discharge of sulfates and other chemical substances.

Barra Honda National Park

Pure adventure and nature: in this park there are a lot of underground caves; there is one cave open to the public with many stalactite and stalagmite formations. You will also hike in the dry forest with panoramic views of the Tempisque River and Palo Verde National Park.

Corobici Floating Tour

This tour is an easy ride through the Corobici River on a rubber raft where you will have the opportunity to see the characteristic vegetation of the area as well as interesting wildlife like monkeys, iguanas and wading birds.

Scuba Diving Tour

This exciting tour will take you to the Catalina Islands that are a 45 minutes boat ride north of Tamarindo. You may see large manta rays, reef sharks, dolphins, turtles and hundreds of species of tropical fish. And is there a more beautiful way to end an exciting day with a spectacular sunset?

Other outdoor activities offered:

- Biking

- Catamaran Tour

- Golf (A beautiful 18 hole golf course is just 20 minutes by car from the hotel).

- Horseback riding

- Kayaking (tours or rental)

- Sailing

- Quad (ATV) tours

- Snorkeling

- Sport fishing

- Surfing (lessons or rental)

- Tennis (Tamarindo Tennis Club)

Available free of charge:

- American Football

- Badmington

- Beach toys

- Boccia

- Boogieboar d

- Football soccer

- Ping Pong

- Volleyball

For more information on tours and activities, have a look at the website of Hotel Capitan Suizo.

Special Offer by Peace Lodge!

2011-05-11T10:52:00.000-06:00

Peace Lodge
Green Season Special

Until May 31, 2011

Located within the private wildlife refuge of La Paz Waterfall Gardens Nature Park the Peace Lodge’s ultra upscale accommodations are uniquely themed to complement the inherent beauty of its rain forest setting. The detailed architecture exudes a natural elegance and sophistication with every room boasting a Jacuzzi tub and stone fireplace along with showers that transform into waterfalls with the turn of a knob.

During this entire month of May, the Peace Lodge offers a special Green Season offer!! Have a look at the offers below and enjoy a rejuvenating stay at this peace-ful place:

50 minutes in room massages for only $30 per person.
Stay 3 nights and get a Free Waterfall Gardens Guided Tour
Stay 3 nights and get half price on our Poás Volcano and Doka Coffee Plantation Tour

For more information about Peace Lodge, visit: http://distinctivehotels.com/our_hotels_peace_lodge.html.

Hotel Villa Caletas en Canal 7 (Habitat Solutions)

2011-05-10T12:12:00.002-06:00

El 7 de Mayo 2011, Hotel Villa Caletas fue representado en el programa Habitat Solutions de Canal 7.

On May 7th 2011, Hotel Villa Caletas was featured on the program Habitat Solutions of Canal 7 (only available in Spanish)

QUIZ: Sustainable Tourism

2011-05-10T11:14:00.000-06:00

How green do you travel?

This quiz is part of our latest newsletter, the Green Issue, and will test your knowledge on sustainable tourism!

The answers and explanations will be provided with our next newsletter, in case you are not yet subscribed, simply send your name and e-mail address to info@distinctivehotels.com.

We hope you'll enjoy!

1. Which of the definitions below best describes sustainable tourism?
A. A form of tourism designed to sustain the way the travel industry currently operates.
B. A form of tourism that ensures visited countries to be preserved for generations to come.
C. A form of tourism that increases financial sustainability of tourists by offering low prices.

2. Sustainable travel is only possible when choosing specific niche tour-operators that specialize in green- or ecotourism.
A. True
B. False

3. Select three countries that are known internationally for their sustainable tourism efforts
A. France
B. Seychelles
C. Kenya
D. Belize
E. Guatemala
F. Jamaica
G. China
H. Russia
I. Costa Rica
J. Greece

4. Several countries worldwide, have begun their own certification system in order to set and control standards in sustainable tourism. Does Costa Rica have such a certification system?
A. Yes
B. No

5. Which of the following activities can be recommended to make your holidays greener?
A. Turn off electricity when leaving your room
B. Expect local population to understand and speak fluent English
C. Offset the CO2 emissions of your international- and local flights
D. Use local public transportation instead of renting a car
E. Take photographs of local/ indigenous people without asking permission first
F. Reduce duration of showers and turn off water when brushing your teeth
G. Keeping your air-conditioning running when leaving your room

Thank you for participating in our online-quiz!

Small Distinctive Hotels Member certified with “4 leaves” for sustainable tourism.

2011-05-02T17:55:00.000-06:00

Hotel Capitan Suizo, one of Tamarindo’s most enchanting accommodations and member of the hotel group Small Distinctive Hotels, officially received its Sustainable Tourism Certification by the responsible committee of the Costa Rica Tourist Board (ICT). As the first hotel in the Tamarindo area, Capitan Suizo has managed to be certified with 4 out of 5 leaves.

It has been a long and sustained effort to achieve the level of sustainability which has now been officially rewarded by the ICT. As the hotel’s manager Vinicio Hidalgo states, “Our team is proud and satisfied about this result; it is a great motivation since everyone has worked extremely hard to obtain certification at this level. We have learned along the way that these positive results with the CST can only be attained in team work and our gratitude extends to each member.

In order to achieve this certification, a balanced development needs to take place in 4 areas:

The interaction of the hotel with its physical environment, the dissemination of information to raise awareness among guests, as well as the socio-economic involvement in the community and efficiency of its facilities. For more information about the certification, please visit:

http://www.turismo-sostenible.co.cr/en/

DESCRIPTION OF HOTEL CAPITAN SUIZO

Hotel Capitan Suizo is a luxurious boutique hotel, located directly on one of the most attractive swimming beaches of Tamarindo.

The beach-setting along with the exuberant tropical gardens, discreet elegance and Swiss quality provide a rejuvenating atmosphere, which is reflected in its 22 rooms.

Various Good Practices implemented at Hotel Capitan Suizo

The hotel prepared for two years before officially applying for the CST evaluation. The first year focused on generating a positive change regarding the employees’ attitude in order to ensure a joint effort in achieving its sustainability goals. The second year consisted in the implementation of important changes in a wide variety of areas.

Environmental and Social Activities

Hotel Capitan Suizo participates in a project for protecting wildlife, especially the impressive howler monkeys that have lost parts of their habitat due to touristic developments in the area. The hotel is part of the Blue Flag program committee and supports a primary school which offers education to children from families with scarce economic resources. Moreover a co-operation with the non-profit organization CEPIA promotes culture, health, sports and education in the coastal communities of Guanacaste. Finally, since three years the hotel organizes a Christmas celebration for children of a close-by refuge.

Infrastructure Enhancements

In order to further enhance sustainability efforts, a range of enhancements have been made in terms of infrastructure: hydrometers have been installed in various sectors of the property to monitor water consumption as well as solar panels in order to heat water. Solid- and organic waste management has been significantly improved; part of the organic waste products are now used to produce organic fertilizers for the garden, since chemical fertilizers have not been applied since many years. Incandescent light bulbs have been replaced with high-efficiency bulbs and high-efficiency minibars are gradually replacing the original ones.

For further information on Hotel Capitan Suizo and its sustainability efforts, visit our website here.

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CONTACT INFORMATION

Contact Hotel Capitan Suizo
Tel. (506) 2653-0075
Eduardo Vinicio, General Manager
Email: Vinicio@hotelcapitansuizo.com
Sonia Fuentes, Sustainability
Email: fuentes@hotelcapitansuizo.com

Contact Small Distinctive Hotels
Hellen Campos, Marketing Manager
Email: hcampos@distinctivehotels.com

Tel: (506) 2258-0150

Why visit Costa Rica in the Green Season?

2011-05-02T12:27:00.000-06:00

When green season approaches and the tropical rains slowly get stronger and more frequent, a whole different side of Costa rica seems to come alive. The trees and plants seem to suddenly shine in the most diverse shades of green. The greenness of Costa Rica can be truly and literally be experienced during this time of the year!

But what does this entail: Will we still be able to travel around freely? Will it rain every day? Will we still be able to explore all Costa Rica has to offer?? Are probably some of the questions that come up when reading about the green season. We can assure you there is no need to worry, below we will explain why traveling to Costa Rica during this time of the year can often lead to an even more special experience of the country!

The green season seems to be a time of the year, where all of Costa Rica's nature truly comes alive, everything seems more vibrant, radiantly green. Since there are more fruits on the trees, animals are more active and abundant, so your chances to encounter Costa Rica's typical and beautiful widlife such as toucans, monkeys or sloths are greatly increased during this time of the year. Moreover, since the majority of tourists visit Costa Rica during summer months, this time of the year is more quiet in many parts therefore making it easier to experience the 'real' Costa Rica.

Although usually around October, when rainfall is highest, some venues may be closed, generally speaking most activities can as easily be undertaken during the rainy season as in the summer season. Especially when keeping in mind that mostly rains occur in the afternoon, one can plan accordingly. The same applies for transportation within the countries, during most of the green season it will be possible to explore the country in a rental car. Only around October, when rainfall is more heavy, it is advisable to consult with locals before driving certain roads, and to calculate additonal time in reaching your destination.

One of the other advantages of traveling to Costa Rica in the green season, is that many accomodations as well as other venues offer special rates. Moreover availability at Costa Rica's most beautiful hotels will be easier to get during this time of the year.

Alltogether it can be said that green season is the perfect time to visit Costa Rica in all its green splendor!

Small Distinctive Sustainability

2011-04-27T11:54:00.004-06:00

Costa Rica has long been known as one of the world's "greenest" countries, and is often referred to as an ecotourism pioneer. Indeed, preserving the precious natural environment of this magnificent country has long been on top of the agenda of the Costa Rican government, governmental as well as NGO organizations. Moreover the travel industry in Costa Rica recognizes that succesful tourism is dependent on an intact environmental as well as socio-cultural environment, and therefore engages avidly in its protection.

In line with Costa Rica's sustainability efforts,Small Distinctive Hotels prioritizes sustainability not only by supporting a variety of Costa Rican social and environmental organizations, but also by promoting sustainability among its member hotels. An example for this is that each hotel upon entry, must commit to the National Sustainable Tourism Certification (CST) process.

The Certification for Sustainable Tourism Program (CST) is a product of the Costa Rican Tourism Board (ICT). The program seeks to categorize and certify tourism companies according to the degree to which its operations comply to a model of sustainability, for which 4 fundamental aspects are evaluated:

1. Physical-biological Parameters

2. Infrastructure and Services

3. External Clients

4. Socio-economic Development

Accordingly, each of our nine hotels has either gone through the process of certification, is still within the process, or is currently renewing it's certification. Within recent months, the continous and dedicated efforts of our member hotels have begun to show rewards, as positive certification results were being awarded as shown below:

Hotel Casa Turire in Turrialba - 4 out of 5 leaves

Hotel Grano de Oro in San José - 4 out of 5 leaves

Hotel Cuna del Angel in Dominical - 4 out of 5 leaves

Florblanca Resort in Santa Teresa - 4 out of 5 leaves

Hotel Capitan Suizo in Tamarindo - 4 out of 5 leaves

The other hotels likewise rank generally high in the sustainability certification:

Arenas del Mar Resort in Manuel Antonio- 5 out of 5 leaves

Playa Nicuesa Lodge in Osa Peninsula - 4 out of 5 leaves

Peace Lodge in Vara Blanca - 2 out of 5 leaves (currently upgrading)

Hotel Villa Caletas in Jacó - 2 out of 5 leaves (currently upgrading)

At Small Distinctive Hotels, apart from offering a collection of the most beautiful hotels in Costa Rica to journey to, we see sustainability as a journey in itself to which we are continuously committed.

Surfing South - Hotel Cuna del Angel in Dominical

2011-04-27T10:15:00.001-06:00

Algún surfo? O interesado en aprender a surfear? Uvita se considera como nivel intermedio para realizar la actividad del surf, seguidamente de playa Hermosa, la cual es la playa más cercana al hotel y subiendo el nivel avanzados estaría playa Dominical. Nunca es tarde para empezar!Adelante, que pensás?

Do you surf? Or are you interested in learning how to ? Uvita is considered intermediate level for surfing activites, followed by Playa Hermosa, which is the beach closest to the hotel. Further up the scale, Playa Dominical, which is also in close proximity to the hotel, is considered advanced level for surfing. It is never too learn to start, what do you think?

For more information, have a look at Hotel Cuna del Angel here.

Hotel Casa Turire in Turrialba: Recent Events

2011-04-25T11:59:00.000-06:00

A stay at Hotel Casa Turire is always as relaxing as it is entertaining...
Una estancia en Hotel Casa Turire es siempre relajada y entretenida...

Saturday 23 April 2011:

BBQ Lunch at Casa Turire!
Almuerzo Parrillada en Casa Turire!

Sunday 24 April 2011:

A goat was born at Casa Turire !!

Nacimiento de una cabra el día hoy en Casa Turire !!

Saludos!
Greetings from Casa Turire!
Saludos de Casa Turire!

Hotel Casa Turire: BBQ Menu // Menu Parrillada!

2011-04-20T15:22:00.000-06:00

This Saturday Hotel Casa Turire will be offering a BBQ Menu!

In order to reserve your spot, simply call the hotel: (506) 2531-2244

El Hotel Casa Turire ofrece un Menu Parrillada para el Sabado!

Para reservar, simplemente llama: (506) 2531-2244

Hotel Cuna del Angel in Dominical - New Video!!

2011-04-20T08:52:00.001-06:00

Hotel Cuna del Angel, located in the lush green setting of Dominical, is truly a heavenly paradise as it's name (translated: Angel's Cradle) suggests. The peaceful atmosphere is reflected througout the entire hotel with all rooms named after an angel, deliciously divine food, a rejuvenating spa... the perfect ingredients for a relaxing holiday!

A Stay at our Newest Member Hotel: Playa Nicuesa Rainforest Lodge

2011-04-19T15:37:00.000-06:00

Playa Nicuesa Rainforest Lodge brings a rejuvenating stay in nature to a whole new level… This article will give you an impression of what to expect at this special place!

The fun and adventure begin upon arrival at the dock, where a small boat brings you to the lodge. With a little bit of luck the sight of a dolphin welcomes you to this natural paradise. Accompanied by the guide and welcomed by the sound of birds and cicadas as well as the first sights of scarlet macaws and bright blue morpho butterflies, your holiday can begin!

As you sip your delicious welcome cocktail, manager Stephen explains the workings of the lodge, since this is certainly not your usual holiday resort; the secluded location combined with a small number of guests (maximum 25), provide a personal atmosphere which is enhanced by the three daily meals which are prepared locally and enjoyed socially around the long table. Moreover the feeling of being a guest not only at the rainforest lodge, but especially of the rainforest, adds to the magic of this place.

An array of activities is available to those who care to leave the comfort of their hammocks or beach chairs planted under the almond trees right at the Pacific Ocean with its mild temperatures:

One of the most easy and exciting activities is a hike through the trails which are literally located in the backyard of the Nicuesa Lodge, either self-guided or guided by naturalist guide Jonathan, these trails will quickly introduce you to the impressive flora and fauna of Costa Rica. From colorful birds and butterflies, to howling monkeys, crawling lizards, impressive spiders, insects, frogs... all wildlife inhabiting this dense rainforest has its natural place and function in the jungle. Since the property of the lodge consists of 165 acres and is reserved only for guests of the Nicuesa Lodge, each hike in the rainforest becomes an intimate encounter with Costa Rican nature and wildlife.

For those who wish to spice up and ultimately cool down their rainforest hike, a guided tour to the property's waterfall is the perfect activity. Another adventurous way to cool down is by taking a kayak tour to the adjacent bay for snorkeling, where blue parrot fish and tropical striped fish are some of the colorful attractions. Another way to explore the lodge's closer surroundings is by means of the sustainability tour, where the lodge's environmental practices are introduced. From solar panels to recycling stations, tree-planting to a solar drying station as well as sustainable water solutions and much more, this tour answers many questions and also inspires to make changes in your daily life back home.

A shorter kayak outing, which can alternatively be made by boat, leads to the close-by Orchid Garden. A beautiful tropical garden filled with exotic plants, trees and flowers and either of the enthusiastic couple who own this paradisiacal place will give an interesting and refreshing tour with a wide variety of edible herbs, flowers, seeds, lettuce and tropical fruits to be enjoyed.

Another half-day tour leads to a cacao farm where the passionate owner gives a delicious tour, followed by a second stop for an exciting zip line adventure! Fishing, surfing or horseback riding trips, snorkeling, kayaking, hiking, daily yoga classes and massages are among the countless other activities that can be undertaken here.

Finally, at the end of an exciting day, over a delicious fresh meal, you will meet your fellow guests to exchange your daily adventures, wildlife sightings, activities, tips and ideas. An experience at Playa Nicuesa offers activities for everyone, and the secluded location in the middle of a tropical rainforest will relax even the most exhausted visitors!

Arenas del Mar Resort in International Lifestyle Magazine

2011-04-19T12:51:00.001-06:00

Arenas del Mar Beach and Nature Resort has recently been featured in the award-winning international lifestyle magazine Joomag as "the perfect base to explore the area around Manuel Antonio and Quepos on the Central Pacific Coast of Costa Rica." The magazine goes on to describe all the exciting as well as relaxing activities that can be enjoyed at this astonishing and sustainable resort.

To read the entire article, please click here and continue to page 16-19.

Habitat Solutions - Reportaje de Florblanca Resort

2011-04-19T12:27:00.000-06:00

El 9 de Abril 2011, Florblanca Resort fue representado en el programa Habitat Solutions de Canal 7.

On April 9th 2011, Florblanca Resort was featured on the program Habitat Solutions of Canal 7 (only available in Spanish)

Arenas del Mar - Special Facebook Offer!!

2011-04-18T11:58:00.001-06:00

Special Facebook Offer!!

Oferta Especial Facebook!!

Arenas del Mar, Manuel Antonio

We're offering a great special for our Facebook friends from now until June 30th! Stay 5 nights, pay only 4 and take a tour of Manuel Antonio National Park! Contact us at info@arenasdelmar.com for more information.

Ofierta Especial para Facebook amigos desde ahora hasta ell 30 de Junio! Quedarese 5 noches, pagar solamente 4 noches y ademas un tour al Parque Nacional Manuel Antonio! Contáctanos a info@arenasdelmar.com para más informacion!

Hotel Casa Turire: Typical Breakfast // Desayuno Tipico

2011-04-18T11:42:00.000-06:00

On Saturday April 16th, Hotel Casa Turire in beautifully green Turrialba , invited to a traditional breakfast event, guests and visitors enjoyed a typical Costa Rican Buffet Breakfast accompanied by live marimba music!

El Sabado 16 de Abril, Hotel Casa Turire en Turrialba invitaba a un evento de desayuno tradicional donde huespedes y visitantes pudieron disfrutar de un desayuno estilo buffet tipico de Costa Rica y acompañado por musica vivo de marimba!

Santa Teresa among Top 25 Beaches in the World

2011-04-18T11:25:00.000-06:00

Santa Teresa, home to Small Distinctive Hotels Member:

Florblanca Resort, has been ranked the world-wide number 10 beach by TripAdvisor! This beach was therewith ranked higher than those in Hawaii, Maldives, Thailand and more...

"Surf’s always up in the Costa Rican beach town of Santa Teresa. Bright sun and gleaming sands make the perfect backdrop to hang ten in the crystal-clear waters, and fishing, snorkeling and kite-surfing are popular among vacationers. Yoga and spa services are a must for the ultimate relaxation, and, at night, catch a glorious sunset on the same beach where earlier you caught a wave."

TOP 25 BEACHES IN THE WORLD

(Traveler's Choice 2011)

1. Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands

2. Boracay, Philippines

3. Palm/Eagle Beach, Aruba

4. Negril, Jamaica

5. Tulum, Mexico

6. Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

7. Seven Mile Beach, Grand Cayman

8. Punta Cana, Dominican Republic

9. Cape May, New Jersey

10. Santa Teresa, Costa Rica