THIS TRIP IS FULL - NEXT TRIP 2024
Hola alcohol-free traveler!
This trip is the ultimate combination of alcohol-free travel and retreat. This action-packed tour of Costa Rica’s highlights is perfect if you love nature and being outdoors. At Recovery Elevator we strongly believe the opposite of addiction is connection: we will be connecting with nature, the stars, the ocean, the land, food, others who have ditched the booze, and most importantly ourselves. We will be kicking off in San Jose, then head to Arenal/La Fortuna where hot springs await as well as a community coffee plantation tour. Get your stand up paddle board on at Lake Arenal. Then we travel to Rincón de la Vieja Volcano National Park. Next stop is playa Carillo for a surf lesson and endless sand beaches. We added an extra day to this years trip and we’ve got a full free day at the beach. Recovery workshops such as breathwork, guided meditations, and sound healing are also included. The goal is to connect, have fun and learn how to deepen with your alcohol-free journey. We have space for 30 alcohol-free travelers and we hope to see you there!
We are so pumped about our first NA Beverage Collaboration with my favorite NA beer company Go Brewing. I’ve done the side-by-side taste testing with several NA beers, and Go Brew wins every time! One of our main goals at Recovery Elevator is to shred the shame surrounding alcohol addiction. This collaboration begins to bridge the gap between the normal and problematic drinker since we all must come together for wholeness and healing. In addition, I think we can do the ‘drink responsibly’ verbiage better, and having our logo and a QR code with resources is a step in the right direction. This is a limited edition collaboration with only 180 six packs produced. Use the promo code elevator at checkout for 15% off and free shipping on orders of $40 or more.
– Paul
ITINERARY (subject to change)
Day 1 – April 12 – San José. Arrive at any time after 3 PM. Meet your fellow sober travelers and guides during orientation in the evening. We will stay at Radisson San Jose
Day 2 – April 13 – San José/La Fortuna. Visit the Mi Cafecito Community Coffee Plantation and relax in the local hot springs. Stay at hotel Magic Mountain
Day 3 – April 14 – La Fortuna. Morning recovery workshop, then stand up paddle boarding at Lake Arenal. Experience the outdoor adventures, amazing wildlife and natural wonders in this area.
Day 4 – April 15 – La Fortuna/Rincón de la Vieja Volcano National Park. Travel to the Blue Zone Guanacaste for yoga and relaxation. Stay at Hacienda Guachipelin.
Day 5 – April 16 – Rincón de la Vieja. Enjoy a day of exploring Rincón de la Vieja National Park. Start by taking a short hike to one of the volcanic mud pools in the area.
Day 6 – April 17 – Rincón de la Vieja Volcano National Park/Playa Carrillo. Travel to quiet beach town of Playa Carillo on the Nicoya Peninsula. Sunset walk on the beach. Stay at Hotel Nammbu.
Day 7 – April 18 – Playa Carrillo. Head to the beach to learn how to hang 10 🤙 at an included surf lesson.
Day 8 – April 19 – Playa Carrillo. Sunrise recovery workshop on the beach. Free day to hang out at the beach.
Day 9 – April 20 – Playa Carillo/San José – Bid farewell to the coast and travel back to San José for the closing session at the hotel. We will stay at Radisson San Jose
Day 10 – April 21 – San José – Depart at any time out of San Jose International airport.
Full Itinerary – Subject to Change
ITINERARY (subject to change)
Day 1 – April 12 – San José.
Meet at hotel from 3:00 – 6:00 PM.
Arrive and meet your fellow alcohol-free travelers! We will have a get-to-know-you welcome dinner and then break out into small groups for closer connections. Before that, hang out at the pool and listen to the birds 🦜. Airport transfer is included in the trip price.
Hotel: Radisson San Jose
Day 2 – April 13 – San José/La Fortuna.
Drive to Sarapiquí to visit Mi Cafecito Community Coffee Plantation. Learn about the impact this project has had on the community and sample some of the products they sell. Continue to the Arenal region and take advantage of a free afternoon to experience the area’s adventure activities and natural wonders. Enjoy an included relaxing soak in the local hot springs. Situated at the base of the Arenal Volcano, immerse yourself in therapeutic waters heated by earth’s magma and infused with healing minerals and salts. Rejuvenate your muscles, detox your cells, and stimulate all your senses in nature’s thermal spa. Breathe in the pure rainforest air and marvel at the mystic surroundings of these outdoor pools of paradise.
Hotel: Magic Mountain
Day 3 – April 14 – La Fortuna.
Visit nearby Lake Arenal this morning for a stand-up paddleboard (SUP) yoga class. After lunch we’ll have our first of three recovery workshops in the hotel’s conference space. After that, enjoy free time in the afternoon or take part in optional activities around La Fortuna – opt to go canyoning, hiking, ziplining, or use the time for rest and meditation. Experience the outdoor adventures, amazing wildlife and natural wonders in this area.
Hotel: Magic Mountain
Day 4 – April 15 – La Fortuna/Rincón de la Vieja Volcano National Park.
Travel to the Blue Zone Guanacaste for yoga and relaxation. Home to two volcanoes, Rincón de la Vieja is the epitome of Costa Rica: lush jungle, extensive flora and fauna, bubbling mud pools next to volcanic thermal waters, and an escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. There is good chance we will see some of the most iconic Costa Rica animals such as the Howler Monkey and red feathered Scarlet Macaw.
Stay at Hacienda Guachipelin.
Day 5 – April 16 – Rincón de la Vieja.
Enjoy a day of exploring Rincón de la Vieja National Park. Start by taking a short hike to one of the volcanic mud pools in the area. After a rejuvenating exfoliation with the volcanic mud, rinse off at nearby thermal pools. After lunch, breakout into share groups for smaller group discussions. This afternoon is free to explore the park or spend time enjoying the lodge. Optional afternoon activities include visiting the Rio Negro Hot Springs or a Canyon Canopy Tour.
Stay at Hacienda Guachipelin.
Day 6 – April 17 – Rincón de la Vieja Volcano National Park/Playa Carrillo.
Travel to Playa Carrillo on the Nicoya Peninsula, a laidback beach town on the Pacific Coast. Take part in a sunset yoga class overlooking the picture-perfect crescent bay of Playa Carrillo. Known for being less busy than other beaches along the coast, Playa Carrillo is perfect for rest and relaxation as there are few distractions and minimal noise. The beach itself has no buildings, hotels, or restaurants, and is considered one of the most beautiful beaches in Costa Rica.
Stay at Hotel Nammbu.
Day 7 – April 18 – Playa Carrillo.
Head to the beach to learn how to hang 10 🤙 at an included surf lesson. After lunch, break out into share groups for smaller group discussions. In the evening, take part in a sunset yoga class and enjoy the ocean breeze. Optional excursions include ocean kayak and snorkeling or stand-up paddle boarding.
Stay at Hotel Nammbu.
Day 8 – April 19 – Playa Carrillo.
Sunrise recovery workshop on the beach. After that, the day is all about you having fun on the beach with your fellow AF travelers. After dinner, join us on the beach under the Costa Rican stars to set the intention for the rest of the year.
Stay at Hotel Nammbu.
Day 9 – April 20 – Playa Carillo/San José
Join your group for the last share group and small group discussion. Bid farewell to the coast and travel back to San José for the closing session at the hotel.
Stay at Radisson San Jose
Day 10 – April 21 – San José
Depart at any time out of San Jose International airport.
What’s Included
- Shared accommodations for 9 nights
- All transportation during the trip
- 3 Alcohol-Free recovery workshops
- All meals except 2 lunches and 2 dinners
- 1 alcohol-free beverage (coffee, tea, soda or juice) at each meal
- Excursions/Activities – Mi Cafecito coffee tour, hot springs in La Fortuna, Stand Up Paddle Boarding lesson, Surf Lesson in Playa Carillo, Volcanic Mud Bath, 4 Yoga Classes
- All gratuity and tips
- Arrival transfer from airport to hotel in San Jose
What’s not Included
- Travel Insurance – This is Required. See FAQ for more information and where to purchase a policy. Please budget anywhere from $125-$250 for this depending on your level of comfort. **Check to see if your personal or business credit card includes this as many of them do at no extra charge***
- Single room option for $1,199 extra. Email kate@recoveryelevator.com to book. We have two available
- Airfare
- Departure transfer shuttle or taxi (Arrival is included)
- 2 lunches and 2 dinners – Please budget an additional $75 – $150 for extra meals and snacks
- Optional excursions such as snorkeling, zip-lining, and horseback riding. Budget an extra $300 for additional activities if this is of interest
COVID Disclosure/Policy
- Due to recent legislation passed in Costa Rica, we are now requiring passengers to be fully vaccinated to attend this trip since hotels and restaurants are still asking for vax to enter premises. The good news is that there is no longer a negative COVID test required to enter into Costa Rica nor to return to the United States. Progress not perfection 👍
- Please always have an original and printed copy of your vaccination status with you at all times. Most hotels and restaurants in Costa Rica now require proof of vaccination to enter the premises. We don’t want anyone sleeping outside!
Cancellation Policy
- All but $350 refunded for cancellations up until 5 pm EST February 10th, 2023
- 50% of total refunded for cancellations up until 5 pm EST March 10th, 2023
- Cancellations within 30 days of departure = 100% loss.
RE in Costa Rica
One time Payment - Save $50THIS TRIP IS FULL
– Shared accommodations for 9 nights
– All transportation during the trip
– 3 Alcohol-Free recovery workshops
– All meals except 2 lunches and 2 dinners
– 1 alcohol-free beverage (coffee, tea, soda or juice) at each meal
– Excursions/Activities – Mi Cafecito coffee tour, hot springs in La Fortuna, Stand Up Paddle Boarding lesson, Surf Lesson in Playa Carillo, Volcanic Mud Bath, 3 Yoga Classes
– All gratuity and tips
– Arrival transfer from airport to hotel in San Jose
– RE Pura Vida shirt and patch 🤙
**Passport Expiration – passport needs to be valid for 6 months AFTER your return date.**
**COVID Disclosure/Policy – PLEASE READ**
Due to recent legislation passed in Costa Rica, we are now requiring passengers to be fully vaccinated to attend this trip. Please have an original and printed copy of your vaccination status with you at all times. Most hotels and restaurants in Costa Rica now require proof of vaccination to enter the premises.
What will the workshops be like?
We have time and space reserved for three workshops on this trip. In the workshops, you’ll be departing from old narratives, identities, and roles that no longer serve you. You’ll learn how to reprogram the unconscious mind and body to a new vision of you.
Workshops are geared towards building altruistic connections with others on the trip. We aim for you to make connections that will last a lifetime with others who no longer welcome alcohol in their lives.
We are still finalizing the workshop schedule, but you can expect to see some of the following.
– Guided walking and seated meditations in nature, at the beach, or at the hotel
– Group breath-work
– Sound healing – Harmonize and sync your energy centers with music and vibration
– The Divine Connection – With your feet grounded in the sand, use the breath to connect with the stars, planets, and galaxies.
Like all Recovery Elevator retreats, laughter and fun are built into every aspect of the trip.
There is plenty of free time built into this trip, so you have time to relax, read, hang out at the beach, or surf!
Is this the same trip Recovery Elevator did in January 2022?
This trip is different than the previous one. We are still meeting in and departing from San Jose. We travel to La Fortuna/Arenal again but we have different activities planned such as a stand up paddle board lesson on lake Arenal. In this trip we visit the iconic Rincón de la Vieja Volcano National Park and head to a different beach town called Playa Carillo for a surf lesson and different set of activities. This trip in January, 2023 is 10 days, when last years trip was 9 days which is why there is price increase.
What does the mandatory travel insurance look like?
All of our travelers must have Emergency Medical Travel Insurance that will cover the dates of the tour. This policy must meet the following criteria: (1) Medical Expenses coverage, (2) includes an emergency evacuation benefit, and (3) includes repatriation to your home country. The medical expenses, evacuation, and repatriation benefits must, when combined together, cover for at least $200,000.00 USD per traveler.
Several travel insurance companies provide this service, and you may find a cheaper provider than the ones we recommend below. Please budget anywhere from $125-250 for this depending on your level of comfort.
BattleFace is the travel insurance company that most of our travelers use. This company is usually the most affordable and a policy can be obtained in less than 15 minutes.
John Hancock Ins. Agency offers three different plan types (Gold, Silver, Bronze) that meet our mandatory requirements and provides you with the best protection based on your budget. They offer toll-free, 24/7 multilingual emergency assistance services to help arrange any care you may need while away from home.
NOTE: The Cancel For Any Reason Option must be purchased with the Gold, Silver or Bronze Plan within 14 Days of confirming your tour to qualify for the change of mind benefits. The Cancel For Any Reason Option allows you to cancel your trip, no less than 2 days prior to the scheduled departure date, and get back 75% of the prepaid, non-refundable payments or deposits for the covered trip arrangements. The Cancel for Any Reason option is not available in New York State.
What are accommodations like? Where are we staying?
We are staying in 3-4 star hotels on this trip. Accommodations are clean, modern, eco-friendly, and very comfortable.
*Hotels are subject to change.
Night 1: Radisson San Jose
Night 2: Magic Mountain
Night 3: Magic Mountain
Night 4: Hacienda Guachipelin
Night 5: Hacienda Guachipelin
Night 6: Hotel Nammbu
Night 7: Hotel Nammbu
Night 8: Hotel Nammbu
Night 9: Radisson San Jose
What should I pack?
Clothing/footwear/misc
• Sandals/flip-flops
• Shoes
• Shorts/skirts
• Sun hat/bandana
• Swimwear
• Long pants/jeans
• Reusable water bottle
• Shirts/t-shirts
• Sleepwear
• Small travel towel
• Sunglasses
• Headlamp
• Plastic rain poncho (available for under $5 at most outdoor stores)
• Sunglasses
• Sunscreen
• 1 pair of long pants
• Toiletries
• Earplugs
• Small day pack bag
• Journal and Pen
• Eye mask (optional for breathwork)
• Bugspray
• Extra spending money ($300-$500). Bring cash (US Dollars) and a debit card
Documents:
• Flight info (required) (Printouts of e-tickets may be required at the border)
• Insurance info (required) (With photocopies)
• Passport (required) (With photocopies)
• COVID Vaccination Proof
Health & Safety:
• Face masks (required)
• Hand sanitizer (required)
How much extra money should I bring? Should I exchange money before departing?
It’s recommended you bring US American dollars. Bring clean (not ripped) $20 bills. All businesses accept $20 bills in good condition. It may be hard to use larger bills such as $50 or $100 bills since businesses may not be able to make change.
We recommend bringing an additional $150-$200 for meals not included. In addition, if you’d like to book optional excursions such as zip-lining, surfing, paddleboarding, horseback riding, or snorkeling, then budget $85 per activity.
All businesses in Costa Rica accept the US Dollar, so don’t worry about exchanging money.
Since we are traveling to remote areas, access to an ATM may not be possible so please bring enough spending money for the whole trip.
Almost all locations accept major credit cards. Check with your bank first to see if international fees apply, but usually this isn’t an issue.
No hablo español. Is that a problem?
It won’t hurt to know a couple of phrases like donde esta el baño, but if you don’t speak Spanish, no problemo. Guides speak to the group in English and can help you out if you need a translator. Plus, English is commonly spoken in Costa Rica.
Hotel in San Jose, Costa Rica
La Fortuna/Arenal Volcano
Rincón de la Vieja Volcano National Park
Playa Carillo
