FlyerTalk Forums - View Single Post - Marriott Bonvoy hotels in Costa Rica

Feb 6, 2023 | 11:50 am

#607

Perk251

Join Date: Dec 2016

Posts: 2

Quote:

Originally Posted by notquiteaff

We (couple) are hoping to finally visit Costa Rica this year, perhaps late April/early May before it gets too rainy.

I have five free nights (50k each from Chase Visa offer last year) burning a hole in my pocket. Also some 100k points with the ability to top off from Amex or Chase if a few more points are needed. I have just Bonvoy Gold status, so no free breakfast or upgrade likely.

Looking at the various Bonvoy properties, I am not really sure which one would work best for us, so I am looking for suggestions/advice from you all. Most of the property-specific threads have been fairly quiet in recent months.

We would have a rental car, could fly into either SJO or Liberia depending on what would be easier.

We are looking for a nice beach resort. No interest in all inclusive. Interested in seeing some of the country outside the resort (hence rental car). Would like ability to eat at local restaurants (zero interest in being forced into $$$ buffet breakfast).

I am currently leaning towards the W. Its “cool” vibe isn’t really my thing, and the loud pool music sounds somewhat annoying, but I figure we are not actually going to spend all day every day at the pool.

What are your recommendations for a first time visitor? Thanks!

We just got back from Costa Rica, We flew into Liberia airport and stayed 3 nights at the W Costa Rica-Reserva Conchal on points and 5 nights at the Planet Hollywood using 5 50K certs. We had to top up the 50 k certs a couple of the days for a total of 33k points. I am lifetime platinum so we received breakfast at the W included. The W had a laid back vibe, both pools were very quiet and relaxing. The beach is just steps from the resort and very nice, white sand and swimable. Our room was a sunset treehouse room and we loved it, probably one of the best views we have had. We hired a driver and it was about 75 minutes from the airport. At the Planet Hollywood the certificates were my husbands and he is only Silver. They would not let me add my status to his reservation so no additional benefits there but the resort is all inclusive and was well worth the points used. Beach is black sand and we didn't get in the water but was great to walk along. Pool was loud and full of energy and was fine but we did three days of tours from here so we weren't there much. Restaurants, food and service were excellent. It is about 30 minutes from the airport. We loved both resorts and wouldn't hesitate going back to either one.

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