ORIGINS LODGES COSTA RICA

I have traveled to wonderful resorts and hotels throughout the world and I can earnestly say that this is the first time I truly felt like I was on vacation. When you come to Origins, expect that you will make minimal decisions and all of your needs will be quickly satisfied. The concept blends nature and resort in a way that few places can match.

From the moment we arrived, the location felt like an oasis high in the rainforests of Costa Rica. The staff had already prepared a recommended agenda for each day and sat down to walk us through it, including times for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. A well thought out plan was already established - as it should be for a true vacation.

The rooms are immaculate, with very thoughtful design elements and concepts. The bedroom uses wonderful materials and is structured as a circle, keeping the bed as the center point to view the gorgeous scenery all around you. The bathroom is spacious and calming, including both an indoor and outdoor shower. Each product, from lotion to soap, is developed at Origins itself in their workshop, using only local plants and essential oils. There is ample seating and accent lighting within each room, as well as seamlessly integrated closets and storage. Coffee, teas, fruits, reusable water bottles, ponchos, umbrellas, robes, and chocolates are complimentary.

And then there is the balcony of each room. The balcony is where we spent so much of our time, as it includes a fireplace, infinity hot tub, and ample seating to overlook the majesty of the rainforest. Whether it is raining, cloudy, or clear skies, you will fall in love with the view. You are at such an elevation that you can witness the sun, clouds, rain, and atmosphere dance together while they shift throughout the day. This room and view allowed me to completely unplug like never before.

Special mention must be made for the restaurant, chef, and accompanying staff. Aside for breakfast, each meal is pre-fix to be between 3-5 courses. Let the Chef take you on a artful culinary journey with each course, ingeniously blending tropical flavors using very precise techniques. The idea is for you to sit back and delight in the menu rather than fuss over a static menu. Again, minimal decisions for you to make. Of course, the chef and staff are very accommodating to substitutions, if needed, and are already aware of your allergies and preferences when you arrive (granted you provided them when asked ahead of time). Finally, your view is immaculate, painted with colorful flaura / fauna, exotic birds (within a safe distance), and natural landmarks in the great distance.

Of course Origins comes with a hefty pricetag, but this includes all of your Michelin-level meals / service, immense complimentary items in the rooms, and a wide array of onsite activities. These activities include yoga classes, night walks, gorgeous hikes through the rainforest, horseback riding, medicinal plants tours, lagoon fishing, bird watching tours, and farm tours. If you take advantage of these activities and appreciate the Origins concept, the cost is well worth it if you are in a position to indulge.

Finally, a special thanks to all of the staff at the lodge. They are truly kind and generous with their service. Their inviting and charming personas remind you that good service still exists in an industry that is starting to wain in this aspect. Everyone is dedicated to your well being and satisfaction.

I highly recommend a visit to the Origins. Do yourself a favor and book at least 3-4 nights here so that you do not regret leaving earlier than you wanted.

3 Nights with 5 people costs 11k USD, excluding wine! Outrageous! The rooms are nice but the value for money is poor. Origins tries to squeeze their guests out of every last dollar - paid $40 per person for an average plate of pesto-pasta, and $25 for cocktails (excluding tax and service for both!) - I mean this is just crazy.

Unlike any experience I've had before - exceptional location and accommodations in the heart of the rainforest. Absolutely unforgettable

This place is incredible - the highlight of our trip to Costa Rica. I cannot rate it highly enough; the views are breathtaking. The room rate includes a number of private wildlife tours, yoga, riding and fishing. The food was healthy and delicious. We have unforgettable memories of this place and cannot wait to return. Thank you to Allan and all the fabulous staff for making our trip so perfect.

Truly a magical place.