Costa Rica with Anita Matey

Dates

May 2–6, 2025

Group Size

8–20 Travelers

Duration

5 days, 4 nights

Activity Level

Relaxation

About This Trip

Escape to a coastal seaside surf town in Costa Rica with a relaxing and unforgettable itinerary in Tamarindo. You’ll have a day at your leisure to explore the pristine beaches, engage in thrilling water sports, or simply unwind amidst the tropical paradise that Tamarindo offers. Immerse yourself in the rich cultural tapestry of Santa Barbara as you craft traditional pottery and savor the flavors of Costa Rica by making and indulging in your own handmade tortillas during a delightful lunch. Feel the thrill of the ocean breeze on a mesmerizing sunset catamaran sailing and snorkeling tour, where the warm waters reveal a vibrant underwater world. As the sun dips below the horizon, you'll find yourself on a journey of tranquility and awe. This itinerary promises an immersive blend of cultural discovery, aquatic adventures, and the freedom to sculpt your own paradise in this coastal haven.
$2,899USD
$3,149USD
May 2–6, 2025
5 days
Trip Closed

Meet Your Host

Anita Matey
Anita Matey

Join me, author of Loved and Unforsaken, on a journey of self-love, healing, and cultural exploration! This isn’t just a trip—it’s a celebration of who we are, uniting to build lifelong bonds, embrace our wins, and discover the beauty within ourselves and the world. Let’s heal, grow, and create memories that last forever. 🌍✨

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Trip Activities

  • Pottery Class

  • Tortilla Making Lesson

  • Sunset Sailing and Snorkeling Tour

Included in Your Trip

  • Double occupancy in 3-star hotels (limited single rooms available)

  • Local Guide throughout trip

  • All city transfers

Not Included

  • International flights

  • Food and alcohol (except as noted)

  • Visas and travel insurance

  • Airport transfers

  • Tips for Guides

What's included by Your Host

Afternoon: Vision Board Creation & Manifestation Gathering

Informal Gathering
We'll come together for a creative and inspiring Vision Board event, a chance to set our sights on the dreams and goals we want to bring to life. We'll each gather images, words, and symbols that resonate with our personal aspirations—whether it’s for growth, adventure, love, or self-discovery. As we arrange our boards, we'll share our intentions with the group, turning this into a collaborative manifestation circle where we uplift and encourage one another. Once our boards are complete, we'll take a few moments to visualize these goals becoming reality, sealing them with a collective affirmation. This event is more than just crafting; it's about setting a clear, empowered path forward, surrounded by the support and positive energy of everyone around us. We'll leave with a powerful reminder of what we’re working towards and the excitement of knowing we’re not doing it alone.

Evening Activity: "Solo Exploration Hour" - Try Something New

Informal Gathering
Tonight, we’re giving you the gift of free time, but with a twist: an invitation to try something new! Whether it’s exploring a part of the resort you haven’t been to, taking a walk under the stars, journaling on the beach, grabbing a new drink or trying a new spa treatment, this time is all yours to dive into something you might not have done otherwise. Tomorrow, we’ll start the day by sharing our experiences—what you tried, how it felt, and what you discovered. This is your chance to create a little adventure of your own, big or small, and bring a fresh story to our morning gathering!

Evening: Sunset Reflections & Lantern Release Ceremony

Informal Gathering
As the sun sets, we'll gather by the ocean for a peaceful moment of reflection, focusing on releasing personal burdens. We'll each take a piece of paper and write down an intention or something we’re ready to let go of, making space for new growth in our lives. Then, we'll light biodegradable sky lanterns and, as we release them into the evening sky, we’ll watch them rise—a symbol of letting go and embracing a fresh start. This shared ritual will be a beautiful, memorable experience, filling us with a sense of peace and lightness to carry forward.

Itinerary

*All durations are approximate

Day 1

Info

Welcome! Please be prepared to meet in the lobby at 5:30pm to depart for your welcome dinner. The dinner reservation time will be finalized closer to your trip date. If you plan on arriving today, we recommend flying into LIR

dinner

Welcome dinner at the hotel or local restaurant is included. Your meal will typically be a 3-course set menu with 1 non-alcoholic beverage included, subject to change.

Tamarindo Diria (or similar)

Accommodations may vary based on availability or group size, but no matter what, you can expect the same comfort and quality.

Night 1/4

Overnight in Tamarindo

Show DetailsHide Details
Day 2

Info

After breakfast today, you’ll have the whole day to yourself! Spend it lounging at the beach or do some exploring on your own!

breakfast

Breakfast at the hotel is included. Typical hotel breakfasts are continental, full/American, or buffet style. The Tamarindo Diria Hotel offers a buffet breakfast with coffee, tea, and juice included. The exact breakfast offered will be determined by your finalized hotel.

Afternoon: Vision Board Creation & Manifestation Gathering

We'll come together for a creative and inspiring Vision Board event, a chance to set our sights on the dreams and goals we want to bring to life. We'll each gather images, words, and symbols that resonate with our personal aspirations—whether it’s for growth, adventure, love, or self-discovery. As we arrange our boards, we'll share our intentions with the group, turning this into a collaborative manifestation circle where we uplift and encourage one another. Once our boards are complete, we'll take a few moments to visualize these goals becoming reality, sealing them with a collective affirmation. This event is more than just crafting; it's about setting a clear, empowered path forward, surrounded by the support and positive energy of everyone around us. We'll leave with a powerful reminder of what we’re working towards and the excitement of knowing we’re not doing it alone.

Evening Activity: "Solo Exploration Hour" - Try Something New

Tonight, we’re giving you the gift of free time, but with a twist: an invitation to try something new! Whether it’s exploring a part of the resort you haven’t been to, taking a walk under the stars, journaling on the beach, grabbing a new drink or trying a new spa treatment, this time is all yours to dive into something you might not have done otherwise. Tomorrow, we’ll start the day by sharing our experiences—what you tried, how it felt, and what you discovered. This is your chance to create a little adventure of your own, big or small, and bring a fresh story to our morning gathering!

Tamarindo Diria (or similar)

Accommodations may vary based on availability or group size, but no matter what, you can expect the same comfort and quality.

Night 2/4

Overnight in Tamarindo

Show DetailsHide Details
Day 3

Info

Enjoy breakfast with the sea breeze and then you’ll head inland to Santa Barbara. After arriving, you’ll learn traditional pottery techniques from a local family, and then get to try your hand at replicating their demonstration on your own piece of clay. After your class, you’ll wash your hands and learn to make your own tortillas! Enjoy them along with lunch before heading back to Tamarindo. You’ll be back in Tamarindo around mid-afternoon with the rest of the day at your leisure. As you’ll be doing pottery today, you may want to wear some clothes that you don’t mind getting dirty.

breakfast

Breakfast at the hotel is included. Typical hotel breakfasts are continental, full/American, or buffet style. The Tamarindo Diria Hotel offers a buffet breakfast with coffee, tea, and juice included. The exact breakfast offered will be determined by your finalized hotel.

Transfer to Santa Barbara

1 Hour

Take a private transfer to the town of Santa Barbara.

Pottery Class

1 Hour

Learn all about the authentic pottery of the region and create your own unique piece of pottery with the help of local artisans! First the local artisan will demonstrate traditional pottery techniques, and then each of you will get to practice the demonstrated techniques on your own piece of clay. Because finishing the clay takes over 2 days, you will not be able to keep the piece that you make. However, you will get to leave with a small keepsake similar to the piece you made in the class.

Tortilla Making Lesson

45 Mins

Next, led by the same local family in Santa Barbara, take part in a cookery lesson making tortillas. Then enjoy the warm tortillas cooked right on the spot! You will also have the opportunity to buy delicious sweets like tanelas and rosquillas (at an additional cost). Before returning to the hotel, enjoy a delicious traditional lunch.

lunch

Lunch included after the tortilla making class. Your meal will be a traditional lunch, typically a Casado option with 1 non-alcoholic beverage included, subject to change.

Return Transfer to Tamarindo

1 Hour

Take a return transfer to Tamarindo after lunch.

Evening: Sunset Reflections & Lantern Release Ceremony

As the sun sets, we'll gather by the ocean for a peaceful moment of reflection, focusing on releasing personal burdens. We'll each take a piece of paper and write down an intention or something we’re ready to let go of, making space for new growth in our lives. Then, we'll light biodegradable sky lanterns and, as we release them into the evening sky, we’ll watch them rise—a symbol of letting go and embracing a fresh start. This shared ritual will be a beautiful, memorable experience, filling us with a sense of peace and lightness to carry forward.

Tamarindo Diria (or similar)

Accommodations may vary based on availability or group size, but no matter what, you can expect the same comfort and quality.

Night 3/4

Overnight in Tamarindo

Show DetailsHide Details
Day 4

Info

Fill up on breakfast, then enjoy your last day in Tamarindo. You’ll have the morning free to rest, explore, or shop for any souvenirs. It is recommended you grab a light lunch on your own around noon, as the lunch provided on the Sunset Sailing and Snorkeling Tour will be in the late afternoon. From the beach you’ll transfer to the catamaran via a smaller boat in the early afternoon and board the catamaran for your tour. After your sunset tour, you'll head back to land via the smaller boat and walk back to your hotel. Finally you'll finish the day enjoying a final meal together. Today you’ll want to wear your bathing suit and bring sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, a water bottle, and a towel.

breakfast

Breakfast at the hotel is included. Typical hotel breakfasts are continental, full/American, or buffet style. The Tamarindo Diria Hotel offers a buffet breakfast with coffee, tea, and juice included. The exact breakfast offered will be determined by your finalized hotel.

Sunset Sailing and Snorkeling Tour

4 Hours

Bid farewell to this beautiful beach on a public sunset sailing tour! You will be picked up on the beach in a smaller transfer boat (that fits around 25 people) and then transferred to the catamaran. As you sail, you’ll pass white-sand beaches and tropical jungles. Then snorkel the warm waters and take a closer look at the amazing marine life! Keep an eye out for dolphins, sea turtles, flying fish, or even a whale! After snorkeling you’ll enjoy your late lunch and watch the sun slowly set. It is recommended to eat a light lunch on your own before this activity. Finally you’ll depart the catamaran on the smaller transfer boat and head back to the beach where you’ll walk less than 5 minutes to return to your hotel. Your tour includes life jackets, snorkeling equipment, lunch, and unlimited soft drinks, beer, and cocktails.

lunch

Late lunch on the Sunset Sailing and Snorkeling Tour is included.

dinner

Farewell dinner at the hotel or local restaurant is included. Your meal will typically be a 3-course set menu with 1 non-alcoholic beverage included, subject to change.

Tamarindo Diria (or similar)

Accommodations may vary based on availability or group size, but no matter what, you can expect the same comfort and quality.

Night 4/4

Overnight in Tamarindo

Show DetailsHide Details
Day 5

Info

All good things must come to an end, but only until your next adventure! Enjoy a final breakfast and then make your own way onward. If departing directly from the hotel, we recommend flying out of LIR

breakfast

Breakfast at the hotel is included. Typical hotel breakfasts are continental, full/American, or buffet style. The Tamarindo Diria Hotel offers a buffet breakfast with coffee, tea, and juice included. The exact breakfast offered will be determined by your finalized hotel.

Show DetailsHide Details

Physical Activity Level:Relaxation

These trips are designed to help you get into (and stay in) chill mode. Think hanging out, good food and good conversation. These trips won't make you break a sweat unless you want to.

Cancellation Policy

We get it—life happens. Here's how cancellations work depending on where you're at in the process:

Spot Pending

100% refundable
Not confirmed yet? No worries. You can cancel at any time for a full refund.

Spot Confirmed With 91 or More Days Before Your Trip

Partially refundable + credit towards a future trip
You'll receive a future trip credit for the amount of your down payment (minus a $100 cancellation fee per Traveler). This trip credit is valid for one year from the date it is issued. Additionally, any payments made beyond the original 25% down payment will be refunded to your original form of payment.

Spot Confirmed With 90 or Fewer Days Before Your Trip

Non-refundable
At this point, all payments are non-refundable because your experience is already in motion behind the scenes. By this time, our operating partners will be working with local businesses to secure your accommodations and finalize your activities.

HIGHLY RECOMMENDED: Protect Your Adventure-Invest in Peace of Mind

We strongly encourage purchasing travel insurance with trip cancellation coverage to safeguard your investment. With travel insurance, you're covered in case of unexpected events—from illness to emergencies—that could affect your plans. Life is unpredictable, but your dream trip doesn't have to be.

After booking, you'll receive a personalized recommendation for coverage tailored to your trip. For full details on our cancellation policy, please refer to our Terms & Conditions.

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FAQ

Traveling with TrovaTrip

What's it like to travel on a Trova Trip?

Trova Trips are curated group travel experiences designed to help you see the world, meet new people, and connect over shared interests. Each trip is hosted by a community leader you know and trust, and run by professional local Operators who handle the logistics. Expect meaningful experiences, authentic activities, and a like-minded group to share it all with.

What's the difference between the Host, the Operator, and Trova?

Great question! Each plays a key role in bringing your experience to life:

  • The Host is your community leader who brings the group together, fosters connection, and perhaps leads a workshop or two. They're there to bring the vibes, not the logistics. That's the Tour Operator's job.
  • The Operator is the professional travel company that runs the trip on the ground. They handle it all—accommodations, local Guides, activities, and safety. Every Operator we partner with is licensed, insured, and vetted to deliver high-quality group travel.
  • TrovaTrip is the platform who connects it all. We help design the trips, partner with Hosts with Operators, and support you before and during your journey to ensure everything runs smoothly.

In short: The Host brings the vibe, the Operator runs the trip, and we make it all happen. Read more about who does what here.

I'm nervous to book. How can I feel more confident?

First, let us say—it's totally understandable, and you're not alone! Travel can feel intimidating, but we built Trova to take the guesswork out of group travel and earn your trust every step of the way:

    • Every trip is run by licensed Tour Operators with vetted local Guides.
    • Hosts are there to foster connection, meaning you'll arrive solo but never feel alone.
    • Itineraries are clearly outlined so you know what to expect, including activity level, example accommodations, and what's included.
    • Our team is available to support you pre-departure, and Operators—plus your local Guide—are on the ground to assist during the trip. And rest assured, all our Operating partners are trained in crisis management.
    • We always recommend travel insurance for extra peace of mind, whether you're traveling with Trova or solo. It can cover medical issues, lost luggage, or even cancellations.

We know it takes trust to book a trip with new people, and we're here to make sure you feel ready, supported, and excited!”

Can I book solo?

Absolutely! As of 2025, almost 84% of TrovaTrip Travelers go solo. (And yes, we may be a little biased, but we think group travel is one of the best ways to meet new people!) You'll have your own bed and the option to book a private room on most trips. Plus you'll be traveling with others who are just as excited to explore and connect.

What if I need to cancel?

We understand that life happens. Our cancellation policy is designed to provide flexibility while balancing the logistics of group travel:

  • Spot pending100% refundable. Not confirmed yet? No worries. You can cancel at any time for a full refund.
  • Spot confirmed with 91 or more days before your tripPartially refundable + credit towards a future trip. You'll receive a future trip credit for the amount of your down payment (minus a $100 cancellation fee per Traveler). This trip credit is valid for one year from the date it is issued. Additionally, any payments made beyond the original 25% down payment will be refunded to your original form of payment. 
  • Spot confirmed with 90 days or fewer before your tripNon-refundable. At this point, all payments are non-refundable because your experience is already in motion behind the scenes. By this time, our operating partners will be working with local businesses to secure your accommodations and finalize your activities.

HIGHLY RECOMMENDED: Protect Your Adventure–Invest in Peace of Mind
We strongly encourage purchasing travel insurance with trip cancellation coverage to safeguard your investment. With travel insurance, you're covered in case of unexpected events–from illness to emergencies–that could affect your plans. Life is unpredictable, but your dream trip doesn't have to be.

After booking, you'll receive a personalized recommendation for coverage tailored to your trip. For full details on our cancellation policy, please refer to our Terms & Conditions.

What's included in the trip cost?

Most trips include accommodations, daily activities, ground transportation, some meals, and a dedicated local Guide. Because Travelers are coming from all around the world, flights to and from your destination are not included. Each trip page breaks it all down for you.

Will I have free time?

Yes! While we pack in incredible experiences, most itineraries include built-in free time so you can relax, wander, or check out personal must-sees.

What do the activity levels mean?

Every trip has a physical Activity Level from 1 to 5 so you can find the right fit for your travel style:

  • Level 1 – Relax + Unwind: Minimal movement (spa days, beach lounging, local markets)
  • Level 2 – Low-Key Movement: Light, easy-paced activity (snorkeling, boat tours, gentle hikes)
  • Level 3 – Moderate Activity: Ready to move (multi-day hikes, skiing, camping)
  • Level 4 – Get Your Heart Rate Up: More intense movement (long hikes, biking, active days)
  • Level 5 – Extreme Adventure: High-adrenaline travel (challenging hikes, dives, technical climbs – experience may be required)

You'll find the Activity Level clearly listed on each trip page, and a more in-depth explanation of each level here.

Who can I contact with more questions?

Our support team is here to help! Visit trovatrip.com/company/contact-us to reach out. You can expect to hear back within 2 business days, but probably sooner—our Trova elves are pretty speedy!

Accommodations

What does "or similar" mean next to the accommodations?

When we say “or similar,” it means the hotel listed is an example of what you can expect—not always the exact spot you'll be staying. Sometimes Operators adjust accommodations due to seasonal availability or group size. But rest assured: the quality and comfort will match what's shown.

Why would the accommodations change from time of booking?

Flexibility allows Operators to choose the best-fit accommodations closer to your trip—based on availability, logistics, and what works best for the group (like the number of Travelers and room configurations). This ensures a smooth experience without sacrificing comfort or quality.

Finalized hotel info is typically shared about 30 days before departure in your Traveler Portal, along with your final itinerary.

Trip Operations & Compliance

Who actually runs my trip, and how does Trova keep things safe?

Your trip is operated by licensed, certified Tour Operators who manage all trip logistics and safety—from accommodations and local Guides and day-to-day logistics. All trips comply with local legal and regulatory standards. We vet each Operating partner carefully so you can travel with confidence.

Who do I talk to if I have questions about safety or compliance?

If you have any questions about safety protocols or trip compliance, reach out to us at safety@trovatrip.com. We're here to help.

General Travel Questions

Do I need any documentation to travel?

It depends on where you're headed. Though it is not a universal requirement, many countries require that your passport be valid for at least six months beyond your arrival date. This ensures Travelers have sufficient time to return home even if their visas are extended or if unexpected circumstances arise. 

Some destinations may also require a visa. Check our visa page to consult your country's travel resources.

Do I need any vaccines?

It's always best to check with your healthcare provider or a travel doctor before your trip. You can also visit the CDC website (or your local government's travel health resource) for destination-specific vaccine guidance. Health and safety first!

Are flights included in the trip cost?

Because our Hosts and Travelers are coming from all around the world, flights to and from your destination are not included. Some trips include internal flights (like a short domestic hop), and those details will always be listed on the trip page if applicable.

Can you accommodate my dietary needs?

We’ll do our very best! Our Operators aim to accommodate dietary restrictions, though availability varies by destination. For example, some places offer plenty of vegan and vegetarian choices, while others might be quite limited. The earlier you let us know—through your trip form or by contacting our support team—the better we can prepare. Once you arrive, be sure to remind your local Guide about any allergies or restrictions so they can help you enjoy your meals safely and comfortably.