When American Publisher Donald Suggs and I decided to hop down to Costa Rica in late January to visit our friend, former St. Louisan Bernard Jennings — now a part‑time local — we thought we were just sneaking away for a little sunshine. We had no idea we were stepping straight into the perfect antidote to St. Louis’ snow, ice, and single‑digit temperatures back home.
Blue skies and hot sun greeted us the moment we stepped out of Daniel Oduber Quirós International Airport, named for the former Costa Rican president known for championing social welfare and environmental protection. From there, we settled in for the hour‑long taxi ride ($70) along slow‑moving, often single‑lane roads to Bernard’s villa in Vista Ocotal. Costa Rica has two major airports; we chose LIR on the Pacific side to be closer to the quieter Guanacaste region. The other, SJO — Juan Santamaría International Airport — sits near the capital of San José and serves travelers heading toward the Caribbean coast and the Osa Peninsula, which The New York Times recently named one of the 52 places to visit in 2026.
Costa Rica contains 5 percent of the world’s flora and fauna within just 1/100th of the planet’s land mass — a fact that becomes real the moment you arrive. We woke each morning to the unmistakable roar of howler monkeys, one of the loudest land animals on Earth, whose calls can carry for three miles. Their presence, along with the vibrant birds and lush flowers surrounding us, reminded us daily that we were in one of the most biodiverse corners of the world.
What we did — and didn’t do
Determined to slow down from our usual breakneck pace, we turned to one of my favorite books, The Art of Doing Nothing by Veronique Vienne, and embraced its philosophy. We exercised, swam in the Pacific, snorkeled, walked the beach, read books, and made a real effort to put our phones down and talk — actually talk — while limiting our television to ESPN and CNN. At one point, I recalled a favorite Paul Laurence Dunbar line: “Same old cronies, same old folks, same old cider, same old jokes.”
Costa Rica is synonymous with zip lines, volcano hikes, sloths, rainforests, rare insects, and adrenaline‑packed adventures. Full disclosure: we did none of that. We heard the howler monkeys, admired the flowers, and ate fresh fruit and fish — but this trip was about rest, not bucket‑list thrills.
Where we ate
Father Rooster Beachfront Bar & Grill (Playa Ocotal)
Just a five‑minute walk from our villa, Father Rooster became our go‑to spot. With toes in the sand and drinks in hand, we enjoyed fresh‑grilled seafood, the best patacones we’ve ever had, and a relaxed beachfront atmosphere perfect for lunch or dinner.
Corazón Café (Downtown Coco Beach)
Our favorite breakfast stop. Excellent coffee drinks, flawless service, and smoothies that set the tone for the day — all delivered with Costa Rica’s signature “Pura Vida” warmth.
Soda Mediterránea (Playa Coco)
Our best meal of the trip. We selected fresh fish from an ice boat in the center of the restaurant, enjoyed crisp salads, flavorful starters, strong cocktails, and a thoughtful wine list. My taste buds are already planning a return.
Getting there — and lodging
American, Delta, Southwest, and United all offer one-stop flights from STL to either LIR or SJO. We recommend renting a sturdy 4-wheel-drive vehicle to explore beach towns, state parks, volcanoes, and restaurants at your own pace.
Costa Rica offers everything from glamping to luxury hotels. We stayed in a three-bedroom, three-bath villa rented through VRBO by our friend Bernard Jennings. Located in a secure gated community steps from the beach and one of the area’s top-rated restaurants, the villa sleeps six and includes a full kitchen, onsite parking, washer/dryer, fitness center, air conditioning, and a large pool. Bernard also provides complimentary transportation to and from LIR. Search VRBO for host Bernard L. Jennings; prices vary by season.
The takeaway
Our days in Costa Rica reminded us that the best travel experiences aren’t always dictated by itineraries — sometimes they’re built around slowing down, reconnecting, and letting a place work its quiet magic. With its natural beauty, warm hospitality, and easy access from St. Louis, Costa Rica offers the kind of restorative escape many travelers don’t realize they need until they’re already there. If you’re searching for a destination that blends serenity, scenery, and just enough adventure waiting in the wings, Costa Rica may be calling your name.