72 Hours in Puerto Viejo
Costa Rica Photo Log
Two years ago I travelled to Costa Rica to celebrate my 30th birthday. This was my second time visiting; my first being city-based and itinerary-heavy. We opted for a more slow paced vibe near the water for my birthday trip.
Puerto Viejo is a beach town with a familial feel. Shops in the town center are positioned close to one another. Most establishments don’t have front doors, but rather open air entryways, so they almost feel like they’re outside.
The highlight of our trip was the Airbnb we booked just off the main road. This blog post explores the modern, tropical design of our private villa.
Al Caribe Sur is a complex of 3 private villas just off the main route that connects Puerto Viejo de Talamanca to nearby beach towns and roadways. The complex is at the very end of a winding dirt road bordered with lush landscaping - palm and papaya trees, banana plants. Tucked behind the plants are airy tropical homes that use natural materials in their architecture. A tall black gate hides the villas of Al Caribe Sur, each separated Each villa is separated by bamboo fencing.
Things the Space Does Well
Ceilings
The ceilings combine wood paneling and clear roofing. Plenty of natural light washes through the space, even on cloudy days. The wood paneling adds warmth to the neutral color palette. The roof is of course water tight, so guests can enjoy rainstorms while dry and protected.
Built in Planters
The walkway that connects the bedrooms has recesses in the ground where palms are planted. Though this is an outdoor living space, interior plants are a must. They creates cohesion between the covered “indoor” space and the tropical exterior. The interior plants were young when we visited, but in time, they’ll surely grow a couple more taller and elevate the indoor oasis.
Partition Walls
Configuring an open floor plan for coziness is a challenge. This space uses free standing walls to anchor and separate the entrance, the living and the dining area. The open air kitchen is nestled into a three sided wall that creates a subtle container for appliances and counter space. I’m unsure how the walls were constructed, but they have the look of concrete, which creates elegance in the space.
Things the Space Needs
Yard Access. I love being outside in the yard. I love wandering and investigating all the tiny beings and the plants they live on. The yard behind our villa was off limits, but since I tend to live beyond those - I journeyed back there anyway, multiple times. I would have stayed longer if there hadn’t been a sign telling me to leave. I imagine the owners have plans to make that space accessible eventually.
Bigger Couches. The couches weren’t lounge-worthy. The space sleeps six but the four of us adults couldn’t lean or lounge on the couches together, without being in each other’s space. The Airbnb listing shows they have since added a hammock-type lounge net, arm chairs and a pool/hot tub. They’re creating more space for lounging, but I believe, comfortable, nap-worthy couches play a non-transferable role.
Bedroom Upgrades. The bedrooms had what they needed to be functional and practical, not comfortable. The walls were plain. The bedding was minimal. They felt empty although they had furniture. Simple, inexpensive upgrades could make these rooms feel more homey: A subtle wall color like sage green or a slate gray. Some throw pillows with washable covers to add texture and visual interest. More interesting curtains. Easy fixes.
I wouldn’t have a problem staying here again, but would prefer to explore other rentals in the area.
