Costa Rica’s Papagayo peninsula, situated along the Central American country’s northwest Pacific coast, is stunning: Think lush forests, stunning topography, beautiful beaches, and hospitable locals.
The crown jewel for visitors is Villa Manzu — Manzu means “friend” in the language spoken by the indigenous Chorotegan people — a massive private residence 40 minutes from Liberia International Airport (and a five-hour flight from New York), which exceeds five-star service and amenities.
But the luxe life doesn’t come cheap: It’s $16,500 a night, with a three-night minimum.
Property managers and husband-and-wife duo Chris Celiceo and Jenifer Cowles are a dream, catering to guests with unparalleled service and dedication.
Here’s a look at Villa Manzu, by the numbers:
30,000
Square footage of the entire property.
8
Number of suites, all oversized, with ocean views, walk-in closets with Costa Rican hardwood, aromatherapy diffusers and a gorgeous chic, tropical décor. (Tip: Stay in the La Lora suite — it’s where Beyoncé stayed when Kelly Rowland married at the property in 2014.)
23
Staff catering to guests, including a concierge, a three-person adventure guide team (which arrange scuba diving, zip lining and other excursions), two breakfast chefs, four executive chefs, two butlers, and an 11-person domestic and maintenance team.
215
Footsteps down a steep, rocky hiking trail to reach Villa Manzu’s secluded and dreamy private beach.
2,670
Square footage of the outdoor dining terrace — with stunning panoramic views of the ocean and surrounding flora and fauna — a focal point for the property, where guests dine, listen to live music, enjoy cocktails, take a mixologist and dancing lessons, and host parties.
2
Number of heated saltwater pools, including a stunning infinity pool overlooking the ocean.
128
Bottles in the wine cave for guests. There’s also a cigar humidor.
17
Products, created exclusively for Villa Manzu, including spa products, chocolates, and souvenirs.
15
Seating capacity in the private theater room, including 9 leather recliners and 6-person sofa.
45
Length of drive (in minutes) to the beach town of Playas del Coco, a laidback community filled with tourist-friendly shops, restaurants and bars.
1-2
Price range (in U.S. dollars) of a bottle of Costa Rican beers Imperial and Pilsen from a Playas del Coco watering hole.
20
The average depth (in feet) of nearby Marina Papagayo, a deep water marina where the one percent dock their yachts. It’s also from where various excursions arranged by Villa Manzu depart.
7
Number of national parks in Guanacaste, the province where Villa Manzu is located.
6,788
Yards of verdant course at the Four Seasons Arnold Palmer golf course, which Villa Manzu guests may use.
12
Number of micro-climates in Costa Rica, including cloud forest, rain forest and dry tropical.