Andaz Papagayo to Open in Costa Rica

Andaz Papagayo is expected to open on Península Papagayo, located on the northwest Pacific coast of Costa Rica, on December 15th 2013. The new Andaz hotel will be located on a 2,223-acre master planned development set on a jagged pair of peninsulas that slip majestically into the warm waters of the Papagayo Gulf, along the spectacular Bay of Culebra. This project will debut the Andaz brand in Latin America and will mark the second Andaz hotel in a resort destination to open in 2013 following Andaz Maui at Wailea, which opened this month. Andaz Papagayo will bring to life the brand’s mission of creating inspiring, indigenous experiences and immersing guests in the destination’s local culture.

“We are thrilled to have the opportunity to bring a world-class resort to such a desirable and unique destination in Latin America, which we know will attract international travelers seeking new and inspiring experiences” said Michael Schmid, General Manager of Andaz Papagayo. “Andaz Papagayo will be a wonderful addition to the Andaz family and will showcase the rich culture and history for which Costa Rica is known.”

A Vibrant, Residential Resort Destination

Situated on 28-acres on the bay, adjacent to Marina Papagayo, Andaz Papagayo will feature 153 guestrooms of which 21 will be luxury suites, 8,200 square feet of flexible meeting space, and a variety of amenities including three themed restaurants, a marina bar, ocean activities, a spa and fitness center, and breathtaking views of the Papagayo Gulf. The Marina Papagayo offers 180 slips, impressive state-of-the-art facilities, and a full menu of boating services catered primarily to the yachting community. Guests will have access to the leisure amenities on Península Papagayo, including an 18-hole Arnold Palmer championship golf course and world-class fishing in one of the premier sport fishing destinations in the world.

Relevant design

Renowned native Costa Rican architect Ronald Zurcher, known for creating a sense of place through his cultural and architectural sensibilities, imagined a gathering of animals and used the shapes of cocoons and shells for the hotel’s facilities to create an intriguing design meant to stimulate the senses of guests in new and refreshing ways.

“I was inspired by the organic forms and shapes of the native flora and fauna of the peninsula. The hotel’s design is meant to seamlessly integrate Papagayo’s beautiful environment and its unique local heritage,” says Zurcher. “The effect will translate to a feeling of groundedness for Andaz Papagayo’s guests and staff. Costa Rica is known for its peace-loving attitude, and I felt tapping into Mother Nature’s energy was the best way to connect the resort with the overall vibe of the country.”

Vibrant Venues and Inspired Accommodations

Andaz Papagayo’s free-flowing environment transforms the arrival experience by eliminating traditional check-in desks and synchronized procedures, making for a stress – and barrier – free experience. Guests will feel at home as hosts welcome them in the open-air lobby and handle check-in in a personal and uncomplicated way.

Each of the 153 rooms balance modern design with touches of character that blend into the natural surroundings, with woven textiles, solid woods and carved artifacts highlighting the rich Costa Rican aesthetic. Guestrooms and suites will offer a spacious balcony with breathtaking bay views. Four of the 21 suites will feature plunge pools, and the Presidential Suite will offer a private, full-sized pool.

Peace and relaxation will be found inside the 11,000 square foot spa, offering nine treatment rooms and an array of therapeutic treatments, along with a 24-hour state-of-the-art gym.

Solitude can be sought – and found – inside various open-air social spaces, designed for anything from brainstorming sessions to wedding receptions. A privately accessible beach for Andaz Papagayo guests will ensure isolation from crowds, while two swimming pools will encourage fun in the sun. Three themed restaurants are also planned, offering farm-to-table ingredients, locally inspired cuisine and hand-crafted Latin cocktails.

As with all Andaz hotels around the world, complimentary wireless Internet will be available to all guests, along with a complimentary health-minded minibar and upscale bath products from local artisans in each room.

Pura Vida

Pura Vida, a phrase widely used by the population that characterizes modern Costa Rican culture, means “Pure Life” and is an expression of optimism symbolizing the idea of simply enjoying life and being happy. True to the Andaz brand, Andaz Papagayo will reflect Costa Rica’s Pura Vida philosophy, offering uncomplicated and personal service by real people who have a passion for their heritage and community. The hotel will aim to create locally-inspired experiences and engage guests in the local culture in a comfortable, unique atmosphere for which Andaz is known.

Andaz Papagayo will be located approximately 20 minutes from Liberia International Airport (LIR), which offers daily or frequent service from several major U.S. gateway cities, frequent regional service from San Jose, the capital city, and seasonal service from other main international destinations. San Jose’s Juan Santamaria International Airport (SJO) has regular connections to several gateway cities in Europe and Latin America.

Andaz Papagayo is being developed in collaboration with Capitales Cuestamoras, a division of Grupo Cuestamoras that manages private equity investments, creates strategic partnerships and identifies business in established companies.

For more information, visit https://papagayo.andaz.hyatt.com.