Why the Soft Life Trip Matters
For over 20 years, I’ve commemorated my birthday abroad. Possibly it’s the Leo in me, possibly it’s simply me in my Leo– but the event and concentrate on me is euphoric.
I like my friends and household, and I celebrate with them before taking a trip, however there’s something transformative about awakening in another nation on my birthday. This year, I welcomed what I call the Soft Life Tour— a possibility to slow down, reserved schedules, and lean into balance, rest, and luxury. Costa Rica ended up being the best background.
Day 1: From Champagne in the Clouds to Sunsets in Guanacaste
The journey began in the clouds, champagne in hand, somewhere in between Philadelphia and paradise. By the time I landed in Liberia, I currently felt the shift– the rate slowing, my shoulders lighter.
I explored The W Costa Rica– Reserva Conchal, a jungle-meets-ocean retreat that knows how to set the tone for pure relaxation. Supper that night was A Taste of Guanacaste— vibrant spices, fresh seafood, and live music floating through the air.
Afrobeats were calling from The Living Space lounge, but my body whispered “bed.” And for once, I listened.
Lesson of the Day: Rest doesn’t need a reason.
Travel Notes:
- Airport: Liberia (LIR)– Daniel Oduber Quirós International Airport
- Hotel: The W Costa Rica– Reserva Conchal
- Dining Emphasize: “A Taste of Guanacaste” supper with live music
Day 2: Poolside Rhythm
Breakfast started with me declaring, “I’m not even that starving.” Yet in some way, my plate developed into a sampler of everything– fresh fruit, pancakes, bacon, and gallo pinto.
The remainder of the day followed a perfectly soft life rhythm:
Drifting in the infinity pool
Drinking something tropical
Chips, salsa, and guac
Winding up in a deep discussion with a girl on her first solo journey– who simply happened to be in HR (and funny enough, many of my connections lately have actually been HR folks!).
The sun ultimately beat me down with a headache, but even that was a pointer– slow down, retreat, and let the day suffice.
Lesson of the Day: Not doing anything can be the most satisfying schedule.
Travel Notes:
- Vibe: The W pool scene is vibrant yet calm enough to nap between dips
- Food & Drinks: Poolside mixed drinks + light bites are the MVP
- Idea: The Guanacaste sun is no joke– hydrate and pace yourself
Day 3: A Birthday to bear in mind
For over twenty years, I’ve kept one custom: celebrate my birthday abroad. Costa Rica offered me one to bear in mind. The day started with a birthday serenade at breakfast– total with waffles, strawberries, sprays, ice cream, and a candle light. (Yes, ice cream at 9 AM is as wonderful as it sounds.)
Then came paddleboard yoga– laughter, balance, and yes, I managed to remain upright. Next up: an 80-minute massage that pressed reset on my entire body. The afternoon was spent poolside, lounging, chatting with travel companions, and letting the day unfold.
That night, I treated myself to supper at the hotel’s great dining restaurant. A new buddy joined me, and over complimentary champagne, we traded stories, knowledge, and our shared enthusiasm for travel. We missed the live music, however honestly, the conversation was the music of the night– valuable, unexpected, and unforgettable.
As the sun set on my birthday, I believed: if today is any preview of what Chapter 54 will bring, I’m all set.
Lesson of the Day: Commemorate yourself loudly, softly, and unapologetically.
Travel Notes:
- Activity Emphasize: Paddleboard yoga (book through W activities desk)
- Medspa: 80-minute full-body massage at AWAY Health spa– worth every minute
- Birthday Touch: Waffle + ice cream “cake” at breakfast
Last Reflections
I’m constantly on the go– even when I state I’m unwinding. Helping, planning, handling. Doing.
But this Soft Life Tour had to do with releasing. Not looking at email, not responding, not thinking, just … refraining from doing. And I accomplished it.
A big part of that was thanks to The W Costa Rica– Reserva Conchal. This needs to be among the best resorts I have actually ever stayed in. The customer support is remarkable– from the moment you show up, everyone puts in the time to understand your name and welcome you personally. Even before I signed in, the pre-arrival details was incredible. If you’re considering your first solo journey, or planning a milestone event, book a W Hotel and make certain to keep in mind the celebration in your booking. When I inform you I ‘d come back simply for the service alone, I mean it.
Now, I’ll return to the important things that make me me— however with a brand-new sense of balance, a tip to pause, and authorization to merely release.
So thank you for occurring on this journey. The Soft Life Trip isn’t ending here– it’s just the start.
If this influenced you to consider your own “soft life” escape– whether it’s a birthday abroad, a reset in Costa Rica, or merely a journey that gives you space to breathe– I ‘d enjoy to assist you produce it. Start your journey at internationalcaty.com.
And obviously, I’ll be sharing more experiences along the way. Follow me on Instagram @internationalcaty and Facebook to see where the Soft Life Tour takes me next.
Practical Travel Tips for Guanacaste
- Best Time to Visit: December– April for dry season, but the sun is strong– pack sun block and hydrate.
- Airport: Liberia (LIR) is the closest airport– about 1 hour to The W Reserva Conchal.
- Transport: Pre-book a private transfer or work with a relied on driver; taxis/Uber are restricted.
- Ambiance: Guanacaste is for slowing down, not hurrying. Welcome it.