From majestic volcanoes to beautiful beaches (and boys), take a coast-to-coast Costa Rican adventure Whether your dream is to see the monkeys and scarlet macaws in Manuel Antonio National Park, to ride a zip line through the Monteverde Cloud Forest or to relax on the sandy white beaches of Tamarindo, you’re sure to find it all in the amazingly diverse Costa Rica.
As one of the more gay-friendly countries in Central America, Costa Rica is known for their “pura vida” or “love of life.” And though gay relationships are not officially recognized by the Costa Rican government, that doesn’t stop large numbers of gay travelers from visiting—or locals from welcoming them! There are two vibrant hubs for the gay community in Costa Rica—down-to-earth San José and upscale Manuel Antonio—that offer amazing nature and hot nightlife. And both are equally worth a visit!
During our one-month adventure in Costa Rica, we rented a 4x4 and explored from the tip of the north Pacific coast at Playas del Coco over to the southern Caribbean port of Limón. Aside from the plague of missing manhole covers in San José, driving in Costa Rica was great. Sometimes potholey, sometimes slower than a banana truck, but great nonetheless.
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First up on the itinerary was San José. Having built the successful Colours B&B in Key West, owner James Remes decided to bring his concept of a gay resort to Rohrmoser (near San José), where Colours Oasis Resort was born. Based on the idea of keeping things fresh by constantly reinventing, the resort has been built and rebuilt over the years to its present complex consisting of five houses sitting on their original lots. Through creative use of space, Remes adapted this unique setting into a variety of room shapes and sizes, with rates from just $49. Add in the full-service travel agency, Orchid Rainforest bar, intimate courtyard with a pool, sundeck, hot tub, mini gym, complimentary Wi-Fi and full breakfast, and it’s no wonder that Colours Oasis Resort is a popular choice with gays and straights alike.
San José is simply one of those cities that shouldn’t be missed. While you may not want to spend more than a few days in the craziness, it does offer a number of attractions that showcase its Central American heritage, including the Museo del Oro and Museo de Jade. If you’ve got time, stop for a café con leche at their gorgeous Teatro Café. Soak up the atmosphere by strolling along the pedestrian Avenida Central or visiting the Mercado Central.
For more Costa Rica, pick up the May issue of Instinct!
