Parador Resort and Spa

Parador Resort & Spa Celebrates 16 Year Anniversary!

2011-06-15T15:47:00.000-07:00

It began with a remarkable piece of secluded cliff-side property blanketed with dense rainforest that offered spectacular ocean vistas stretching from Quepos to Manuel Antonio National Park. And a vision. The vision of a Dutch man named Jan Schans who upon seeing this panoramic plot of land in 1993 imagined a hotel that would both aesthetically respect this unique natural setting and commit to protect it. Towards that end, over the years Parador has reforested, under the aegis of a forestry engineer, the entire area on which our hotel sits.

Mr. Schans’ dream became a reality when Hotel Parador (now Parador Resort & Spa) opened its doors on Punta Quepos, Manuel Antonio with 56 rooms in 1995. It quickly emerged as one of the top luxe properties in the area which has, over the years, evolved into not only the largest full service resort in the area – spread across 12 lush acres of jungle-kissed grounds -- but a tenacious leader in sustainable tourism and community service.

Today, as we proudly celebrate our 16th anniversary, Parador features 129 rooms and suites, three swimming pools, four restaurants and bars, a luxurious world-class spa, fitness room, tennis court, nature trails and green areas. We have hosted innumerable weddings and honeymooners, family reunions and special events, first and repeat visitors and even a handful of celebrities to this special slice of heaven on Costa Rica’s Central Pacific Coast.

We continue to be a family run business with more than a 150 loyal employees – many of whom have been with us for many years, some since the beginning. Our “We Share” Employee Program persists in supporting and caring for our team while our ongoing commitment to the environment has earned us the ICT’s (Costa Rican Tourist Board) top 5 Leaf Sustainability rating and the Ecological Blue Flag. Named “Costa Rica’s Leading Resort 2010” by the World Travel Awards, we work each day towards achieving and maintaining a standard of excellence within the context of our green philosophy.

Sweet Sixteen! Time marches on and so do we. Thank you for sharing in our success and participating in our ongoing efforts to save – or at least – protect our planet!

Parador Honors Its Own: Employee Achievements Are Recognized At Quarterly Party

2011-06-01T07:55:00.000-07:00

With twelve acres, 129 rooms and suites, stringent sustainability practices, 158 employees in seven departments and a constant influx of esteemed guests for whom to care, the Parador family is a busy one indeed. But we still take time out every three months to honor our hard working and loyal staff with a no-holds-barred party! Hosted each quarter by a different department that has free reign to stage the event as it sees fit, the most recent fete was helmed by the Food & Beverage Group. This time they pulled out all the stops to create an afternoon of tongue-in-cheek performance theater and hilarious Chippendales-inspired vid-clips before we all got down to the more serious business of recognizing individual employees for their superlative work and commitment.

Just one element of Parador’s “We Share” employee benefits program (for more information on that check our website www.hotelparador.com), these staff parties provide an opportunity for the Parador team to mingle in a casual non-work environment, while creating a forum in which management can also commemorate its own. Potential honorees are nominated by each department head after which awards – which include pins and/or certificates and monetary gifts – are presented to one winner per month from each department in such categories as “Most Helpful Employee” and “Smile of the Month.” Further, those staffers who have been with Parador for a year or more receive bonuses while those boasting at least ten years of service receive all expense paid vacations for two.

Parador takes great pride in the fact that so many of our employees have long term tenure here. We are delighted to be able to show our appreciation and party with the troops every few months!

Parador Resort & Spa Initiates New “Mysteries Of The Night” Guided Nature Tour

2011-05-16T07:35:00.000-07:00

The mysteries of the jungle are unveiled at night and now Parador Resort & Spa invites our guests to experience the wondrous nocturnal world of our resident wildlife in a new 1 ½ to two-hour guided walking tour. Under the aegis of a certified naturalist armed with a telescopic lens and a fistful of knowledge, participants will hike on trails that meander through the resort’s ten acres of lush secondary rainforest inhabited by coatis, sloths, raccoons, skunks, porcupines, numerous species of reptiles and amphibians, and a plethora of curious insects. Particularly striking is the highly photogenic red eyed frog, found only in Costa Rica´s rainforests and living right here on our grounds. If lucky, a caucel or another of the elusive wildcats that lurk in the forest’s deep shadows might also be sighted.
Tours run every night at 6 p.m. and return in plenty of time to have a wonderful meal at one of our fab restaurants. A perfect educational and adventure opportunity for the entire family.

Parador Resort & Spa Supports Teatro Copaza In Quepos: First Cultural Theater For At-Risk Youth In Costa Rica

2011-05-06T07:31:00.000-07:00

It’s a well known fact that Parador Resort & Spa is much more than just a world-class resort. Our commitment to the environment and community has earned us a fistful of awards and accolades, including Costa Rica’s highest 5 Leaf Sustainability ranking and, for the third consecutive year, the important Ecological Blue Flag.

Named “Costa Rica’s Leading Resort 2010” by the prestigious World Travel Awards, Parador’s support of numerous community and charitable groups takes equal standing to our dedication to our guests. As such, we have been intimately involved with Copaza, a regional non-profit organization diligently working towards improving the circumstances and opportunities for Costa Rica’s youth.

Of the many projects Copaza has spearheaded since its formation in 2007, the opening last year (2010) of Teatro Copaza here in the small fishing village of Quepos, stands out. As the first such cultural venture in Costa Rica’s Central Pacific region, the theater introduces locals -- particularly kids -- to cultural performances from around the world while also serving as a prototype for similar undertakings throughout the country.

In addition to visiting performance troupes from San Jose, the US, Europe and Latin America, the theater offers art, music and dance classes to local children. Many programs are free, and for those that are not Copaza provides scholarships and other financial assistance for families with limited resources. The goal is to get kids off the street, away from drugs, violence and crime and to provide positive options and inspiration for a more fruitful and successful life.

Through its alliance with the Costa Rican National Theater and the Costa Rican North American Cultural Center in San Jose, Teatro Copaza has presented numerous cultural shows since its opening -- most recently The Juilliard Jazz Artist Diploma Ensemble. The Quepos project is overseen by a board of volunteers comprised of local business people (including Parador Executive Vice President/Managing Director Diego Gonzalez), tourism professionals, clergy, health, and education representatives, community leaders and concerned citizens who have taken on the challenge of fundraising, promotion and management of this model program.

Parador Resort & Spa is proud to host many visiting performers at our resort and to contribute towards promoting open minds and brighter futures for our nation’s youth.

Copaza (Association for the Prevention, Safety & Peace in the Canton of Aguirre) is a non-profit group dedicated towards preventing violence and providing employment and social opportunities – with a particular emphasis on at-risk kids– in the Aguirre region of Costa Rica. Through the implementation of cultural and sports programs and addressing employment and other public issues, Copaza’s goal is to create and promote viable, self-sustaining and peaceful communities.

Teatro Copaza is located in the Quepos Harbor behind the new Pez Vela Marina.

If you would like to make a donation you can do so in the following ways:
Parador guests can make a financial contribution through our “We Share Program” – just ask the folks at reception; or through Copaza's website www.copaza.org.

Parador Resort & Spa Introduces Guided Walking Tours Through Our 9 Acres Of Secondary Rainforest

2011-04-14T13:54:00.000-07:00

Parador Resort & Spa is happy to announce that we now offer a new two hour guided nature tour of the 10 acres of jungle trails that dissect our expansive property. Offered at 6 a.m., 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. every day -- a certified professional guide will lead you through lush secondary rainforest where a plethora of wildlife resides. You will likely encounter brilliantly-hued tropical birds -- including toucans, parrots our three resident species of monkeys (titi, white-face and howler), two and three-toed sloths, giant iguanas and other native reptiles. If you’re lucky, as one of our recent guests was – you might also spot an elusive caucel, (margay cat, a wildcat in the puma family). Our experienced guides carry with them telescopic lenses for better viewing and will share vast knowledge of the area’s flora and fauna. This newest Parador activity is an educational expedition for nature lovers of all ages.

We provide water and refreshing cold hand towels and recommend that participants be in reasonable physical condition, wear tennis shoes or hiking boots, and most certainly bring a camera.

Parador Resort & Spa Awarded Ecological Blue Flag For Third Consecutive Year

2011-04-07T10:13:00.000-07:00

Parador Resort & Spa is recognized yet again for outstanding commitment to the environment for which we were issued the highest 5 Leaf sustainability rating by the Costa Rican Tourism Board (ICT) in 2010. Now, for the third consecutive year we have been awarded the Ecological Blue Flag acknowledging our environmentally-responsible policies and achievements, outstanding green business practices and ongoing dedication towards preserving and protecting Costa Rica’s fragile eco-system.

Costa Rica’s Blue Flag Ecology Program, a joint venture between several government and non-governmental organizations, including the Costa Rican Tourism Institute, the National Water and Sewer Service, Ministry of Public Health Ministry of Environment, and National Tourism Chamber, amongst others, is associated with the international Blue Flag Program. Initiated in France in 1985, the Blue Flag Program was conceived to improve and monitor sustainable development at beaches and marinas through strict criteria dealing with water quality, environmental education and information, environmental management, and safety.

Owned and operated by the independent non-profit organization Foundation For Environmental Education (FEE), the European-based voluntary awards program increased its scope in 2001 to become a globally active organization which today includes participants in 41 countries across Europe, South Africa, Morocco, Tunisia, New Zealand, Brazil, Canada, Latin America and the Caribbean.

The Blue Flag is awarded to over 3450 beaches and marinas annually, with those numbers increasing each year as more countries ally themselves with this environmental group.

Here in Costa Rica, the goal is similarly to improve the safety and cleanliness of the nation’s beaches while also educating and enlisting the allegiance of coastal communities in environmentally-correct actions.

Administered by the National Blue Flag Commission, Costa Rican beaches are stringently evaluated on the quality of the ocean and the drinking water, waste disposal, sanitary facilities, signage, tourist safety, environmental education and involvement of the community in beach maintenance. Only beaches with a 90% score succeed in acquiring a distinction and receiving the Blue Flag. Beaches awarded the Blue Flag are then monitored on monthly basis for sustained maintenance.

The success of the Costa Rica Blue Flag Ecological Program has led to its expansion into non-coastal communities and further inclusion and recognition of companies in both the tourist and private sector. Currently, there are six categories under which the Blue Flag is awarded here.

The most recent award ceremony took place on April 17th at the Presidential House and was presided over by Costa Rica’s President Laura Chinchilla. Other top officials were also on hand to honor the recipients, which included 67 beaches, 40 communities, 426 educational institutions, 36 natural protected areas, as well as businesses whose sustainability practices meet the rigid standards.

For the green-minded visitor, it is easy to find and endorse Blue Flagged destinations and establishments in Costa Rica. Just look for the azure flags proudly signposting the accomplishment.

Parador Resort & Spa Nominated For The 7th Consecutive Years By Prestigious World Travel Awards

2011-03-24T11:05:00.000-07:00

Once again, Parador Resort & Spa has been honored with multiple nominations for excellence by the esteemed World Travel Awards. Having been named “Costa Rica’s Leading Resort 2010,” Parador has won accolades by the WTA for six consecutive years and has been submitted in 2011 for consideration in categories including “Mexico & Central America’s Leading Resort, “Costa Rica’s Leading Hotel,” Costa Rica’s Leading Resort,” and “Costa Rica’s Leading Spa Resort.”

The World Travel Awards were launched in 1993 to acknowledge and recognize excellence in the international travel and tourism industry. Now celebrating its 18th anniversary, the prestigious awards are regarded as a mark of high distinction for nominees and recipients, Votes are cast by 183,000 travel professionals which include travel agencies, tour and transport companies and tourism organizations in over 160 countries across the globe.

To Birth A Hummingbird: Parador Resort & Spa Welcomes Its Newest Family Members

2011-03-15T13:31:00.000-07:00

One needn’t venture very far to experience the miracle of wild life at
Parador Resort & Spa. Embraced as we are by verdant rainforest, sightings of monkeys, sloths, tropical birds and giant reptiles is a daily occurrence.

The sudden appearance of an elusive hummingbird nest amidst the concrete jungle otherwise known as the Parador parking lot, however, is a far rarer event.

Despite the preponderance of hummingbirds in Costa Rica – 51 species with a reported 15, including purple-crowned fairies, violet-crowned woodnymphs, white-crested coquettes and blue-throated golden-tails, indigenous to Manuel Antonio – it is unlikely to discover the nesting grounds of these tiny fluttering creatures in such a public arena,
But there it was, surreptitiously perched in the branches of a lone tree beside large transport vans and rental cars. -- a nearly imperceptible nest housing several eggs which would soon give way to the miracle of birth.
With some variation according to species and location, in general a hummingbird's nest is about two inches in diameter and constructed of such natural materials as plant fiber and down, lichen and spider silk. Once providing his service, the male has nothing more to do with the process, the female taking all responsibility for selecting the camouflaged site, construction of the nest, and care of both the eggs and hatchlings. Incubation lasts for around two and a half weeks and hatchlings stay in the nest for around three weeks feeding on regurgitated insects instead of the nectar the mother ingests.

And then one day they were gone, the cycle completed. Off into the horizon, into the jungle or where ever a hummingbird family ventures. But as females occasionally return to a previously used nesting spot, building a new one on top of the old one, we are hopeful that the newest members of the Parador family will return to us next year.

Soaring The Rainforest Canopy Is a Thrill a Minute

2011-02-23T06:38:00.000-08:00

As we strive to ensure that our guests’ experience in Costa Rica is nothing less than extraordinary and safe, we would never recommend a tour or activity without sampling – and in this case, re-sampling -- it ourselves. And so it was that we ventured deep into the rainforest recently with Canopy Safari to verify that the zip lining excitement quotient is as high (no pun intended!) as we remembered. And we’re pleased to report that this half-day excursion was not only an adrenalin-pumping thrill-ride, but a highly educational outing, as well.

From the moment we hit the road en route to our final destination in Paso Real, about 45 minutes outside Quepos, our quick-witted, bilingual guide Jorge regaled us with his superb knowledge of the area’s history and environment, illustrating various usages of ubiquitous plants we see every day, but perhaps don’t notice, giving us facts and figures that were both interesting and vital.

Coffee, soft drinks and fresh fruit greeted us upon our arrival and an informative tour of the facility’s butterfly garden and serpentarium preceded our gear-prep for the main event. Suited up and rigged up in our un-chic harnesses and helmets, we were divided into two groups of about ten each for both safety and comfort purposes.

Featuring 18 platforms, 10 zip and 2 rappel lines,, 1 suspension bridge and “tarzan swing,” our troop – which included a Parador executive and her 5 year old daughter alongside our resident writer – sailed through the lush jungle with the ease and grace of circus acrobats, securely fastened to cables that allowed us to explore our inner gymnast while imbibing the breathtaking scenery in which we were enveloped.

Piloted by a posse of fast-quipping, highly-skilled English-speaking guides who seemed to be having as much fun as us, we soared for more than an hour, traversing the treetops and dropping to the depths of the jungle in a heart-racing rush. Only one of our group succumbed to her momentary fear of heights and was deftly and patiently tandem-carried across the ravine by one of our guides. Our intrepid toddler, however, navigated the course with gleeful abandon.

A delicious lunch awaited us upon our return, highlighting traditional cuisine which included rice and beans, fried plantains and chicken. All in all, a great day and a recommended excursion for all visitors to our area.
Canopy Safari is the pioneering canopy tour operator in the Southern area of Costa Rica. The company built its first canopy course in 1997 with the help of a team of experts who build high ropes courses in the United States and in Europe.

Amazing Dolphin tour in front of Parador´s coastline last week

2011-02-05T06:35:00.000-08:00

Words cannot describe the feeling of seeing the curious and friendly dolphins up close. We launch from Quepos Oceanfront. We sail along the coast to where the Punta Quepos meets the Pacific Ocean (a favorite dolphin playground). We linger in that area and wait for the Dolphins to come by.

Familia Cortés y Familia Acuña wrote:

The dolphin trip was cool. I never imagined that we would see as many dolphins as we did or that they would swim as close to our boats as they did."

Parador Resort & Spa Hosts Inaugural “Global Partnership For Sustainable Tourism” Summit

2011-01-25T12:00:00.000-08:00

Highly recognized for our dedication to environmental responsibility, Parador Resort & Spa is enormously proud to have hosted the first annual “Global Partnership For Sustainable Tourism” summit on January 18 & 19.

Organized by Costa Rica’s Ministry of Tourism and France’s Ministry of Ecology, Sustainable Development, Transport and Housing, delegates from Switzerland, United States, Panama, Norway, Austria, Colombia, South Africa, Germany, Spain, United Kingdom, Canada, Bahamas, Madagascar, Mali, Morocco, Republic of Korea, and Senegal were amongst those in attendance. The two day conference addressed global environmental concerns, as well as the creation of a permanent commission to facilitate the sharing between participating countries of information, technology and budgets as pertains to sustainable tourism.

The broad geographic scope of this organization -- to be created through the conversion of the International Task Force on Sustainable Tourism Development (ITF-STD) -- will have far-reaching and long-term potential to enable the quick adaption and implementation of ideas, projects, methods and policies to benefit the global tourism community. It will be registered as a Type II United Nations Partnership on Sustainable Development and consist of UN agencies, programs, national governments, intergovernmental organizations, social, environmental, and business organizations.

To date, international efforts to encourage sustainable consumption and production (SCP) -- known as the Marrakech Process4 -- has fostered voluntary task forces in specific areas, including tourism, which led to the creation of a provisional Task Force on Sustainable Tourism Development. Chaired by France, the committee boasts a membership of 18 countries and 25 organizations, and has successfully executed nearly 40 projects between 2006 and 2009. To further its work, this committee has recommended the establishment of a permanent Partnership that would promote synergy amongst participants by creating and applying policies, training materials and tools, facilitating coherent programs, addressing the needs of individual members, providing blueprints for the replication of successful projects and initiatives, and preventing unnecessary duplication of work by building communication networks and joint ventures.

The Partnership will implement its activities by closely following the policy recommendations of the ITF-STD with an initial focus that includes the following:

• Policies: Contribute to the design and implementation of public policies that support sustainable tourism development, including land-use planning and integrated coastal-zone management.

• Development and Investments: Mainstream sustainability into tourism development projects and increase investments in sustainable tourism.

• Capacity Building: Enhance the ability of national governments, local authorities, and the business sector to implement policies and management practices that deliver more sustainable tourism products.

• Awareness and Advocacy: Document and disseminate information on the economic, social, cultural, and environmental benefits of sustainable tourism to governments, tourism enterprises, tourists, and local communities, as well as promoting demand for these products.

• Implementation and monitoring: Foster the implementation of innovative management practices and technologies in tourism operations and monitor the respective economic, environmental, cultural, and social benefits.

• Delivery by 2013 of concrete analytical, communications, policy, and business sector management tools and capacity building activities, demonstrating environmental, economic, cultural, and social gains from sustainable tourism. The financial operation will be managed through the United Nations Environment Program, Division of Technology, Industry and Economics (UNEP-DTIE) with support from the Steering Committee of the Partnership.

Pedro The Iguana Parador's Pet & Mascot Passes Away

2011-01-14T12:18:00.000-08:00

Amidst all the good vibes and celebration, we at Parador Resort & Spa have also suffered a great loss during this holiday season. Our longtime pet and hotel mascot, Pedro the Garrobo Iguana, was found dead close to his home -- a pipe near the reception area in which he has been residing since we opened in 1995. The discovery was made shortly before New Year’s and brings with it much sadness for those whose lives he touched..

Pedro was not only a beloved member of the Parador family, but a bit of a celebrity as well. He enjoyed much fame (but not so much fortune) as the star of many photos, with thousands of guests having posed with our friendly reptile over the past 15 years. Further, while he had no next of kin, Pedro was known to squire many a female companion over and through our expansive grounds and we are sure that his dapper ways with the women will be sorely missed in the kingdom.

Cause of death is undetermined, but it is assumed that Pedro simply succumbed to his advanced age, although we have no idea what that might be!

Rest In Peace dear Pedro. Perhaps one of your offspring will arrive to uphold your legacy.

Rocking in The New Year, Parador Style!

2011-01-09T10:37:00.000-08:00

Parador Resort & Spa ended 2010 with a literal bang behind a backwash of brilliant color as the sky above our sprawling ocean-view property erupted in a dazzling pyrotechnic light show when the clock struck twelve. The awesome fireworks spectacle was orchestrated exclusively for our 250 guests as part of our all-inclusive New Year’s Eve festivities.

Kicking off with a sumptuous buffet which featured fresh sushi bar, lobster and other catches of the day, traditional turkey and a plethora of tantalizing side dishes and desserts, the evening proceeded with a variety of live entertainment staged around and atop our grand main swimming pool. The sultry Latin strains of Taboga Band were followed post-midnight by the funky dance grooves of VJ Rury and a flamboyant costumed Carnival-like Brazilian parade. The party raged until the wee hours of the morning with seemingly half our guests dancing hip-high in the pool’s balmy water while the other half boogied on stage. Complimentary champagne flowed like an endless river while the open bar offered a full range of alcoholic and non-alcoholic refreshments to keep the party rocking.

Kids and adults alike reveled in the dawning of the New Year, Parador style! We had as much fun as our guests and thank everyone for helping Parador to start the New Year the same way we ended it: With a bang!

Playa Biesanz Shuttle

2010-12-31T09:51:00.000-08:00

In our ongoing quest to provide Parador’s guests with the ultimate in comfort and convenience, we are now offering complimentary golf cart shuttle service to and from our stunning neighboring beach of Playa Biesanz. Although just a very short walk from our property, we strive to make it even easier for you to access and enjoy the warm crystalline waters and silky sand of this tranquil jungle-embraced cove.

During low tide, remnants of historic turtle traps can be sighted, dating back to the period between 900 to 1756 A.D. when this point (on which Parador sits) was inhabited by the now-extinct Quepoa Indians. Derived from the Boruca tribes that migrated northward from Colombia towards the end of the first millennium, the Quepoa were reputed as one of the fiercest tribes in the Americas, having successfully deterred Ponce De Leon from landing here in 1519 and further inhibiting Spanish occupation for another 40 years. The Quepoa lived in what is now known as Manuel Antonio and Quepos during the rainy season (June through December) and inland along the river banks during the dry months.

Legend has it that a hidden treasure incorporating seven hundred tons of gold, silver and jewels is buried somewhere in the region that this tribe once occupied. Though never discovered – or even confirmed – infamous English pirate and privateer John Clipperton believed to his death that it was so and spent much of the late 1600s here in search of the elusive booty.

These days, Playa Biesanz is quite a bit tamer – and serves not as a beachhead staving off invaders but a peaceful respite where you can perch under a shady palm or the bronzing rays of the sun, explore the point on kayak or collect a handful of commemorative shells.

Whether you opt for a leisurely stroll or a quick shuttle ride, Playa Biesanz is a not to be missed excursion while you are visiting our lovely area.

Galeria Restaurant at Parador Unveils Inspired New Menu

2010-12-21T07:58:00.000-08:00

In an effort to surprise, delight and consistently evolve, Edgar Vargas Romero, our heralded Executive Chef, has revamped the Galeria menu, creating a series of internationally-inflected signature dishes for the discriminating palate.

Marrying the freshest local ingredients with a globally-inspired culinary twist, Mr. Vargas has conceptualized an adventurous bill of fare which includes such standout dishes as the banana leaf-wrapped catch-of-the-day with fragrant basil and garlic steamed in a bamboo basket; succulent rib eye steak marinated in harissa spices – a taste sensation straight out of morocco’s souks; a mixed meat brochette served hanging from a wooden-based wire skewer accompanied by three daily-changing dipping sauces; and Toscana bisteca (steak) marinated in herbs and garlic with haricot vert served with sundried tomatoes, garlic, parsley and almonds. Classics from India (TandooriChicken) and Jamaica (Jerk Chicken) also possess Vargas’ personal stamp and are sure to excite and entice our hungry diners.

Elegantly presented and lovingly prepared, we are certain our new offerings will further enhance your memorable dining experience in our ambient ocean-view restaurant.

Parador Receives Top Five Leaf Sustainability Award.

2010-12-14T05:20:00.000-08:00

Last Thursday (December 9, 2010) Parador Resort & Spa was presented with the highest Five Leaf Sustainability Award by Costa Rica’s Minister of Tourism Carlos Ricardo Benavides at a ceremony in San Jose’s InBio Park. The annual event recognizes businesses in the tourist sector that duly comply with the exacting sustainability guidelines dicated by the Costa Rican Tourism Board’s ICT, Certification for Sustainable Tourism Program CST.

Parador Resort & Spa was one of only ten establishments bequeathed with the coveted Five Leaf rating, validating our passionate and enduring dedication to our environment, community and planet.

Parador Vice President Diego F. Gonzalez Monge and Sales Director Allan Ortega were on hand to receive the top commendation, joining representatives from many of the other 181 Costa Rican tourist-oriented companies that were also certified (22 for the first time).

The impressive number of honorees indicates the ongoing commitment amongst government and private industry to protect and respect Costa Rica’s fragile and fecund eco-system.

Thanksgiving dinner 2010

2010-11-28T11:44:00.000-08:00

Another wonderful Thanksgiving celebration 2010 at Parador Resort & Spa, Costa Rica.
A full buffet was prepared by Chef Edgar Vargas and his team, and was served at at La Galeria main restaurant, the exquisite Buffet included everything from a large variety BBQ grill with lobster, assorted meats, chicken and fish, sushi platters, salad & fruit bars, crepes suzettes made a la minute with fresh fruits, homemade desserts, and offcourse not to leave out the delicious stuffed turkey with gravy and cranberry sauce.

Parador Resort & Spa Awarded Costa Rica's Leading Resort 2010

2010-11-03T14:08:00.000-07:00

After consecutive years of winning awards from the World Travel Awards, 2010 is proving to be yet another banner year for Parador Resort & Spa. On October 22, we were named Costa Rica’s Leading Resort at the prestigious World Travel Awards gala ceremony honoring the most esteemed properties and tourism businesses in the Americas. Held at the Sandals White House resort in Jamaica, Parador owners/founders Mr. & Mrs. Schans were on hand to accept thecoveted trophy. The WTA was established 17 years ago to raise the standards of customer service throughout the international industry. The awards are determined by a polling process that invites votes from over 170,000 travel agents, tourism and hospitality professionals around the World.

“Amazing Race” Contestants WIN visit to Parador Resort & Spa!

2010-10-29T08:22:00.000-07:00

With seven teams still in the running, we still don’t know who will take the prize in Season 17 of CBS’s thrilling global reality show “Amazing Race”.
What we do know, however, is that doctors Nat and Kat triumphed in the Sweden/Norway challenge which aired this past Sunday (October 24, 2010). And in doing so were rewarded with a five day visit to Parador Resort & Spa, where they’ll be able to shed the requisite Nordic outerwear as they savor our tropical climate, relax in our luxurious spa and participate in some of the non-competitive adventure activities for which Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica is renowned. We are thrilled that the ladies will be joining us in Paradise.

Costa Rica wins Future Policy award 2010

2010-10-27T07:43:00.000-07:00

The Future Policy Award, established by the World Future Council, annually celebrates laws with particularly positive effects on the living conditions of current and future generations. The first award to honour exemplary policies rather than exceptional people on an international level, it highlights solutions, raises public awareness and speeds up policy action towards just, sustainable and peaceful societies.Costa Rica wins Future Policy award 2010

Mario Fernandez Silva, Ambassador of the Republic of Costa Rica to Japan, receiving the “Future Policy Award 2010”

Parador Resort & Spa earns top 5-Leaf Sustainable Rating.

2010-10-20T14:54:00.000-07:00

One of the most lush and bio-diverse countries on earth, Costa Rica takes its responsibility towards protecting and maintaining its fragile environment very seriously. So seriously that the Costa Rican Tourism Board (ICT) initiated the Certification for Sustainable Tourism Program (CST) to monitor and rate the level of sustainability commitment and execution amongst businesses in the tourism sector. The bar is set extremely high and ratings are determined by compliance with stringently complex and comprehensive standards. As such, It’s no easy feat to achieve the top 5 leaf rating, only ten hotels in the entire country having reached that goal.

And Parador Resort & Spa is exceedingly proud to be amongst that exclusive and devoted group, our long-term dedication to environmental responsibility and passionate green philosophy having earned us the top 5 leaf rating by the (CST). Further, we are the largest and only full-service resort to be awarded the honor!

We hope next time you visit us, you will participate in our ongoing campaign to live, work and play responsibility within our community and environment.

*CST is regulated by the Costa Rican National Accreditation Commission.

Independence from Spain

2010-09-15T12:50:00.000-07:00

Today, 15 of September , 2010 Costa Rica is celebrating its independence day, the whole country celebrates this important day by having the schools parade down the streets, displaying their traditions and culture through dances, music , and typical customs .
The Central American country, which abolished its standing army in 1949, formed independence from Spain in 1821. Here we share a letter received from the US Secretary of State to our wonderful nation.

Adventure Before your arrival

2010-09-09T08:30:00.000-07:00

Your adventure starts even before arriving at the Parador Resort & Spa. About 45 drive from the San Jose you will pass the Tarcoles river. This stop is a “must” as you will see dozens of crocodiles in their natural habitat, adjacent is the Carara National Park, around this area you are almost guaranteed to spot the Scarlet Macaws flying by throughout the day, but especially in the mornings when they feed on the “beach almond” ( terminalia catapa) trees seen along the sides of the road, and at dusk when they are flying west in large groups down the Río Tárcoles towards the coastal mangroves where they roost for the night.
This photo was taken early Monday morning by our Resident manager Jorge Rodriquez.

Manuel Antonio takes 4th place, in top 10 Relaxation and Spa destinations of Central and South America .

2010-08-26T12:37:00.000-07:00

#1 most visited park in Costa Rica:
Manuel Antonio National Park
Out of the the top 10 Relaxation and Spa destinations of Central and South America, Manuel Antonio received fourth place, while Costa Rica received a total of 5 out of 10, with Volcano Arenal in first place.

Top 10 Relaxation & Spa Destinations in Central & South America

Costa Rican National Park Day

2010-08-24T09:54:00.000-07:00

Today, 24th of August 2010, we are celebrating COSTA RICA’S NATIONAL PARK DAY and we are happy to share with you that the Manuel Antonio National Park has once again been announced by “La Nacion” (our National newspaper) as the most popular visited park in the country for the year 2009, with a total of 261,156 vistors. The second place goes to the Poas Volcano National Park with 182,900 visitors . Manuel Antoni National Park

Created in 1972 and encompassing an area of around 682 hectares (aprox. 4000 acres), the Manuel Antonio National park is amongst the most diverse and beautiful places in the region. Considered to be the tiniest national park in Costa Rica, what this park lacks in size, it makes up for in stunning natural beauty.
Manuel Antonio National Park Hiking Tour

2010-08-20T12:12:00.000-07:00

Humpback whales spotted along the Pacific coastline. These whales can be observed at different times of the year from the Resort. In the background, Punta Quepos with the Parador Suites and Premium rooms.
Costa Rica Becomes Whale and Dolphin Sanctuary

Manuel Antonio Costa Rica

2010-07-27T11:34:00.000-07:00

This is how Manuel Antonio Natl. Park looked last week when we visited the area. /// Asi lucia el Parque Nacional Manuel Antonio la semana pasada cuando estuvimos de visita

Wild Life

2010-07-20T07:24:00.000-07:00

These past 2 weeks tons of wildlife has been seen around the Parador Resort & Spa grounds and nature trails. A rarely seen 2 toed sloth was spotted with her baby, also a 3 toed sloth with a baby, titi monkeys and white face monkeys with babies as well. This is a positive sign that our fauna keeps reproducing and our efforts towards sustainability are helping with the conservation of our enviroment.

Our rainforest sparkles with wildlife….

2010-07-16T06:38:00.000-07:00

Here are two hard to find frogs spotted on the Parador grounds. The photos were taken by our resident manager , Jorge Rodriquez

Another wonderful wedding at the Parador

2010-07-03T08:44:00.000-07:00

Jun 30, 2010
We traveled to Hotel Parador as a group (approx. 30) to attend a wedding. We were greeted by warm smiles, cool towels and cold beverages. After the bus ride from the airport, all were appreciative of the great reception. Enough cannot be said about the road one must take to get to Hotel Parador - it is an adventure all by itself. I can't believe they leave the road in such a state, but, it lends to the overall "charm" of the location.

Hotel Parador is a great place to stay - the grounds are impeccably maintained, the pool areas are kept very clean, and all interior spaces appeared to be spotless. Each person encountered on the staff was very friendly. The front desk staff was extremely helpful in arranging transportation and excursions.

The food served at Hotel Parador is excellent. Everything from the breakfast buffet, to lunch and dinners is presented beautifully and expertly prepared. The dinners are all a real treat. Sushi lovers - you MUST try the sushi offerings of Sushi Fune - just wonderful. One mustn't be in a hurry when dining, however. Again, this lends to the laid back charm of the overall atmosphere - trust me, it's worth the wait.

Our group was treated very well throughout our stay and the wedding reception was no exception. Attentive waitstaff made sure everyone was well served and always had a fresh beverage.

As an added bonus, the ability to see monkeys, sloths, iguanas and exotic birds was a real treat.

Since we were there for the wedding, and all of the goings on surrounding that event, we were not able to take in some of the hotel's spa services - I guess we'll just have to go back.

Sloth

2010-06-30T13:15:00.000-07:00

This Sloth with her baby was spotted just a few days ago by the Suites.
They are on the endagered list but can still be seen in the Guarumo(trumpet) trees througt the property which they feed from.

15 Anniversary.

2010-06-24T09:34:00.000-07:00

This month the Parador Resort & Spa is happy to announce the celebration of its 15th. Anniversary. As Director and Vice-President of Hotel Parador, I would like to congratulate the staff for a job well done and the owners for giving their support and placing their trust in us, making the Parador a better place to stay each and every day. With pride we stand behind our slogan:
“EUROPEAN REFINEMENT…..WARM TROPICAL TOUCH!’’

Regards
Diego Fco. Gonzalez

Welcome to Parador Resort Blog!

2010-06-23T09:18:00.000-07:00

Dear visitor, we would like to welcome you to our new blog were we will be updating you with the latest news from the Parador Resort . Throughout this blog you will find facts and general information about the Resort, its sustainability, surrounding areas, the community, and the country. Our intention is for this blog to be, not only informative, but educational and fun for everyone. So any comments you wish to share in order to liven up our blog would be greatly appreciated by our next visitor.