READY FOR AN UNFORGETTABLE TIME?
TASTE OF THE TROPICS:
A Luxury Culinary Adventure In Costa Rica For Plant-Forward Foodies
Feb 1-7, 2026
If you’re a foodie craving that sweet spot between nourishing your body and savoring life’s indulgences — with a splash of luxury, vibrant local flavors, and lush landscapes that feed your soul — this is your invitation to escape the ordinary and embrace a deliciously balanced adventure.
7 Days of Flavor, Adventure & Pure Costa Rican Magic
IMAGINE....
You step off the plane and the warm Costa Rican air instantly wraps around you. The scent of salt and earth fills your lungs as you're greeted by your private driver and begin the scenic ride to the villa. Ocean waves shimmer to your left, jungle stretches endlessly to your right — and with every mile, you feel yourself exhale.
When you arrive, the treetop retreat welcomes you like a dream made real. You're handed a fresh coconut, greeted with warm smiles, and assured that from this moment on, everything is taken care of. You’ve arrived — and it already feels like home.
Welcome to your 7-day escape in the heart of Costa Rica — where paradise and possibility meet in every bite. With the guidance of your private local chef and your hosts, you’ll dive into the art of creating crave-worthy meals that nourish your body and light up your taste buds. Picture yourself learning how to transform your favorite comfort foods into wholesome, flavor-packed creations, making desserts so indulgent you’ll forget they’re good for you.
Surrounded by nature, with the sounds of the jungle and the scent of fresh herbs in the air, you’ll discover how to elevate simple ingredients with bold spices, vibrant colors, and plant-powered proteins that leave you feeling full, energized, and completely satisfied. This isn’t about restriction — it’s about reimagining what food can be.
The real magic sets in when you realize: you don’t have to choose between feeling amazing and loving what’s on your plate — you truly can have both. As the days unfold, surrounded by golden sunsets, tropical breezes, and a community that just gets it, something shifts. You reconnect with your body, your joy, and your deep love for food.
Each meal becomes a moment, each recipe a memory you’ll carry home. By the end of the week, you won’t just feel inspired — you’ll feel empowered to recreate this vibrant, balanced way of living in your own kitchen.
Because real wellness isn’t about rules or perfection… it’s about feeling good, savoring life, and letting it be delicious.
WHAT THIS EXPERIENCE WILL BRING
Wish you could watch a skilled chef create stunning meals and actually learn how it’s done?
Get a front-row seat to the magic — learn the ingredients, techniques, and tools that bring each dish to life, so you can recreate the experience at home.
Wish you knew how to enjoy your favorite comfort foods and still eat in a way that feels healthy and nourishing?
Learn how to transform crave-worthy classics into lighter, nutrient-packed versions—so you can indulge without compromise and finally feel that sweet spot of balance.
Wish you could escape on a luxury retreat where every detail is thoughtfully handled—from curated activities to incredible meals—without stressing over what you’ll eat?
Relax into a fully curated experience where plant-based indulgence meets total ease. We handle the planning, so you can simply show up, savor every bite, and soak in the magic.
Craving rest and adventure — without having to choose one or the other?
We’ve built in the perfect mix: relax by the pool with a fresh coconut and explore Costa Rica’s wild beauty with epic day trips and hidden gems.
THE CUISINE
Costa Rica is a paradise not just for your soul, but for your taste buds, too! During this retreat, you’ll discover that the heart of Costa Rican cuisine is already naturally abundant with plant-based delights — vibrant, wholesome, and full of flavor.
Forget boring salads or bland "healthy" meals.
Here, you’ll indulge in colorful, nourishing dishes inspired by traditional Costa Rican flavors, all crafted to satisfy and energize you from the inside out. With the freshest local produce, tropical fruits, fragrant herbs, and soulful spices, every bite feels like a celebration.
✨ Think:
Every morning will begin with the rich aroma of fresh, local Costa Rican coffee, setting the perfect tone for the day ahead. And to keep things vibrant, each meal will be accompanied by a different juice handcrafted by our chef, made from fresh, local fruits for a burst of natural flavor and refreshment.
Guided by our talented private chef, you’ll experience chef’s table moments where you’ll learn how to transform simple, everyday ingredients into restaurant-worthy meals.
You’ll watch as he shares techniques, plating tips, and the secrets of Costa Rican flavors — all 100% plant-based and designed to inspire you long after the retreat ends.
And the best part? Our chef is happy to accommodate dietary restrictions, including gluten-free needs and allergies, with advanced notice — so you can enjoy every meal with peace of mind.
Whether you’re a committed plant-based eater or just curious to explore, you’ll fall in love with how this cuisine brings balance to your plate: comforting and energizing, indulgent yet nourishing.
Because here, it’s not about restriction — it’s about abundance.
It’s about vibrant meals that celebrate nature’s bounty, the joy of sharing food, and the magic of discovering new flavors under the Costa Rican sun.
WHERE YOU'LL BE STAYING:
An Exquisite Retreat in the Rainforest
Perched high in the rainforest canopy, this secluded 6,000 sq. ft. villa feels like a luxurious treehouse, seamlessly blending with its cliffside setting.
Thoughtful craftsmanship shines through carved wooden details, bamboo ceilings, rustic tiles, and natural stone accents. The open-air design invites ocean breezes and offers panoramic views of the Pacific, golden beaches, and the iconic Manuel Antonio National Park.
Share your mornings with monkeys, sloths, toucans, and hummingbirds, as the jungle becomes part of your living space.
(Only 1 available)
Large private ensuite bathroom, & breathtaking ocean and/or jungle views, & air conditioning.
3 of the king rooms are located inside the main house, and 1 in the lower level of the pool house
(4 available)
Large private ensuite bathroom, & breathtaking ocean and/or jungle views, & air conditioning.
This queen room is located inside the main house.
(1 available)
Your own private poolside bungalow, complete with a stylish living area, wet bar, kitchen, private ensuite bathroom, and air conditioning.
Nestled beside the luxury pool and surrounded by lush tropical greenery, this dreamy escape sits right at the edge of crystal-clear waters—where the soothing sound of a 20-foot waterfall sets the perfect tone for total relaxation.
This is a triple room with 3 singles beds, perfect for bringing your besties along for the adventure!
(1 available)
Enjoy a cozy, air-conditioned room with a private ensuite bathroom, tucked into the lower level of the pool house right beside the luxury pool.
Immersed in tropical greenery and just steps from crystal-clear waters, you’ll drift off to the calming sound of a 20-foot waterfall cascading into the pool—pure paradise.
This is a triple room with 3 singles beds—perfect for bringing your besties along for the adventure!
(1 available)
ITINERARY
Arrival in Costa Rica:
Check in to our stunning treetop house and take in the views.
Welcome Reception & Dinner
Chill night to decompress after your travels.
Relax and Unwind:
Start your day at your own pace -- sleep in or rise with the sun.
Enjoy a delicious, chef-prepared breakfast to ease into the morning.
Spend your day however you like: sunbathe by the pool, explore local shops, or simply rest.
Savor a fresh lunch, then wind down in the evening with a mouthwatering dinner and great vibes.
Magical Day at Manuel Antonio National Park:
Start the day with a delicious breakfast.
Head out to explore Manuel Antonio National Park with a private guide -- spot monkeys, sloths, and vibrant birds.
Relax on one of Costa Rica's most stunning beaches, swim in the Pacific, and enjoy the lush surroundings.
Return for an inspiring chef-led dinner demo and unforgettable meal.
Chocolate and Coffee Adventure Day:
Begin with a chef-prepared breakfast, then head off on a guided chocolate and coffee tour.
Learn how these beloved treats go from bean to bar and bean to brew -- with tastings, of course!
Enjoy a fresh lunch back at the house and relax for the afternoon.
In the evening, enjoy another delicious dinner and the chance to learn more culinary techniques from the chef.
Nauyaca Waterfall Day + Surprise Evening:
Fuel up with an energizing breakfast, then head to Dominical to visit the breathtaking Nauyaca Waterfalls.
Swim, relax, and soak in the natural beauty.
Enjoy a chef-prepared picnic by the falls, then return home for a surprise evening experience you won't forget
Your Perfect Last Day:
Sleep in and enjoy a relaxed breakfast.
Spend the day however you choose -- lounge, explore, or book an optional excursion (like surfing, ATV, or mangrove tour).
At 3 PM, gather for a hands-on cooking class and epic 4-course farewell dinner with mocktail pairings.
Celebrate the week, share highlights, and toast to new friendships and unforgettable memories
Departure Day: Farewell For Now
Start the day with an early breakfast buffet before check-out.
Say your goodbyes and head home feeling refreshed, inspired, and full of new memories and recipes.
✔️ 6 nights in a luxury villa with private ensuite rooms & stunning views
✔️ 3 Daily gourmet plant-based meals, from arrival to departure
✔️ Local coffee, herbal teas, filtered water & fresh juices at every meal
✔️ Chef’s table experiences & cooking demos
✔️ 3 plant-based lifestyle sessions with Karine
✔️ Group airport transfers (scheduled times only)
✔️ Private guided tour of Manuel Antonio National Park
✔️ Chocolate & coffee tasting adventure
✔️ Epic day trip to Nauyaca Waterfalls
✔️ All entrance fees, taxes & gratuities for activities
✔️ Private concierge at your service
✔️ Free time to relax poolside, explore the gardens, or hit the town
✔️ Daily housekeeping
✔️ Unlimited villa WiFi
✖️ Flights to/from San Jose (SJO)
✖️ Valid passport & any required visas
✖️ Personal, medical & travel insurance (required)
✖️ Optional excursions & free-time activities
✖️ Lunch during your free day (Day 6)
✖️ Alcoholic beverages
✖️ Transportation for personal outings (like town trips)
✖️ Any meals, drinks, or expenses during travel days
✖️ Souvenirs, personal shopping & laundry services
✖️ Extra tips for guides & drivers (beyond group gratuity)
YOUR BONUSES
🌿 Private Retreat WhatsApp Group
Connect with your fellow travelers before we even arrive! Stay in the loop with real-time updates, travel tips, and get excited together.
🌿 Pre-Trip Zoom Gathering
Meet the group, build connections, and bring all your burning questions — I’ll share tips to help you prepare and make the most of our retreat.
🌿 Post-Retreat Group Call
Let’s reunite! We’ll reflect on our journey, share what’s shifted, and celebrate the steps we’re taking to keep the retreat magic alive.
WHO IS THIS RETREAT FOR?
Whether you’re fully plant-based, just starting to explore, or simply curious about bringing more vibrant, nourishing dishes into your life, you’ll feel right at home here.
While this retreat is 100% plant-based and all meals will be fully plant-based, you don’t need to follow a plant-based lifestyle to enjoy every bite and experience — just an open mind and a love for great food!
It’s for you if:
🌿 You want to learn how to make mouthwatering, healthy meals that satisfy your cravings
🍰You believe in balance: healthy, nourishing meals & the joy of indulging too
🧭 You love the idea of combining relaxation with adventure — think lazy mornings by the pool and thrilling excursions in the wild beauty of Costa Rica
👨🍳 You’re excited to watch the chef create beautiful meals while learning about the ingredients, techniques, and how to plate your dishes to look just as stunning
🌞 You don’t mind a little heat — Costa Rica will be serving up tropical sunshine!
🌴 You’re craving a reset that leaves you feeling energized, inspired, and empowered to bring what you learn back home
If you love the thought of feeding your body well while feeding your sense of adventure, this retreat is calling your name.
Come for the food, stay for the experience — and leave with unforgettable memories (and recipes!) to keep the magic going long after you return home.
🌿 The thought of rainforests, mosquitos, scorpions, or the occasional snake sends you running for the hills. Costa Rica is wild and beautiful — but nature here is alive and well!
☀️ You’re not a fan of heat or humidity.
Expect warm, tropical temperatures in February— perfect for sun lovers, but not ideal if the heat isn’t your thing.
🥗 You’re not open to fully plant-based meals for the entire retreat. While our dishes are creative, abundant, and satisfying, this is a 100% plant-based culinary experience.
⏳ You prefer everything to happen on a tight, fast-paced schedule. Here, we embrace “pura vida” — a slower, more relaxed pace where things unfold organically.
🏡 You’re uncomfortable with heights or multi-level homes. Our stunning villa has 5 levels with gorgeous views — but you’ll need to be okay with heights!
MEET YOUR HOSTS:
Hi, we’re Karine and James — the husband and wife duo behind this feel-good, flavor-filled retreat!
I’m Karine, a plant-based chef and educator with a serious love for creating unforgettable experiences. I’ve been living the plant-based lifestyle for over 20 years and have spent just as long planning events, hosting group trips, and leading classes and workshops for amazing folks like you.
James is my other half — a self-proclaimed foodie who’s passionate about putting a healthy, plant-based spin on classic comfort foods. He’s all about big flavors, good vibes, and making people feel right at home.
For the past three years, we’ve been adventuring through our happy place — Costa Rica. From the moment we arrived, we fell in love with the Pura Vida lifestyle, and we’re so excited to share it with you.
This retreat isn’t just a getaway — it’s a fully curated, stress-free experience. No need to worry about where to find amazing plant-based food or how to plan your days. We’ve got everything handled, so all you have to do is show up, soak it in, and savor every joyful, flavorful moment.
Oh — and you’ll also get to meet Elton! He’s my certified allergen-detection dog and loyal little sidekick. He’s hypoallergenic, super friendly, and usually happy to hang back... unless you’re up for a puppy cuddle, of course.
We can’t wait to welcome you to paradise. Your Costa Rican adventure is calling!
FAQ'S
You'll want to fly into San Jose International Airport (SJO) in Costa Rica and arrive by 2:00 pm on February 1, 2026.
We've got you covered with group transportation to and from the villa (which will take approximately 3 hours), and yes there will be time for a couple of stops!
You will depart the villa at 9:00AM on Sunday, February 7, and the estimated arrival to SJO international airport is 12:30 PM
Typically, it is suggested to be at the international terminal 2.5 hours prior to your international departure. Please book your departing international flight accordingly, knowing that you will be at the airport at around 12:30PM on departure day.
If you book your departure flight earlier than this, you will be responsible for your own transportation to SJO airport and any extra cost incurred.
No worries -- we're happy to help you arrange private transport (just keep in mind this will be at your own cost).
If you'd like to arrive a little earlier or stay a bit longer to soak up more of Costa Rica, feel free! Early arrivals or later departures are at your own expense, and we'll gladly give you some recommendations to make the most of it. ✈️🌿
A $1000 non-refundable retainer is required to secure your spot. All payments are final and non-refundable.
We reserve the right to cancel the trip if it does not meet the required minimum number of participants -- in that case, your deposit will be fully refunded.
Because we have a strict no-cancellation policy, travel insurance is mandatory to protect your investment.
Yes! Travel insurance that includes trip cancellation and medical coverage is mandatory! You never know what can happen that could prevent you from traveling -- you want to protect your travel investment. Be sure to read the fine print, as policies can differ greatly. It's best to include a "cancel for any reason clause."
Absolutely! All meals at the villa are completely plant-based. Just be sure to let us know about any allergies or intolerances when you fill out our trip forms. As someone with deadly food allergies myself, I take this very seriously -- your safety and peace of mind are my top priorities. If you have an extensive list of restrictions, we might ask for a list of your safe-to-eat foods to make sure we've got you covered.
If you'd like to be matched with a roommate, just let us know! We'll do our best to pair you with another traveler who's also looking to share. You'll even have the chance to connect and get to know each other during our pre-trip online gatherings.
February is honestly my favorite time to visit Costa Rica! It's the dry season, which means you can expect plenty of sunshine and very little rain (though of course, Mother Nature always has the final say 🌿). It will definitely be warm and humid, but don't worry -- I'm not a fan of extreme heat myself, and I've got plenty of tips and tricks to help you stay cool and comfortable throughout the trip!
Absolutely! The water at the villa comes from a mountain well and is triple-filtered with UV purification, so you can safely drink straight from any faucet on the property.
Talk with your doctor about any vaccinations or medications that are recommended in your particular case. Malaria, Dengue Fever, and other mosquito-borne parasites and viruses are possible (but not common) anywhere in Costa Rica.
Only if that's your preference! We offer 4 private rooms with a luxurious King bed and ensuite bathroom, along with double and triple occupancy rooms. Most guests treat themselves to single occupancy for extra space and privacy, but if you're coming with a friend or open to sharing with a fellow guest, you can select the shared option when you register. If you're looking to be mindful of your budget, booking a double or triple room is a great way to save!
QUESTIONS?
Got a quick question? Just fill out the form below!
We’d love to hear from you. Don’t hesitate to reach out — we’re excited to get to know you and (hopefully!) welcome you to Costa Rica!
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