Boutique Hotels to Escape to this Winter
Casa TO, Puerto Escondido, Oaxaca
Let’s be honest…. the winter arc isn’t for everyone. If you’re a snowbird like me, you’ll want to check out these hot boutique hotels to escape to this winter. From Costa Rica to Thailand, these properties exude luxury yet leave you feeling more connected than ever to local culture, food, and people.
Sendero Hotel
Sarah and Stefanie, co-founders of Sendero Hotel in Costa Rica, are true examples of what it means to follow your passions and turn it into a business. Their love for wellness and the sleepy surf town of Nosara sparked the opening of a luxury surf hotel – one that I had the pleasure of staying at. What started as a co-working vacation during covid turned into a concept and reality of a boutique co-working surf hotel. Sendero, meaning a “short path”, in all of its essence – is only a few steps from the beach, the most gorgeous sunsets I have truly ever seen, and a wellness community rooted in the “blue zone” outlook to life. Sendero is a 25 room property on the famous Playa Guiones, with a restaurant by celebrity chef Olivier Palazzo, daily yoga classes and sound baths, and adventure a few steps away. The hotel is rooted in principles of sustainability and local culture - built from all recycled or locally sourced materials. I couldn’t recommend Sendero Hotel enough as a top wellness vacation spot – in fact, I diffuse lemongrass essential oil daily in my apartment to feel as if I’m still there in Nosara….
Casa TO
Puerto Escondido, to me, feels like a mix between Santa Teresa and what Tulum was 5 years ago. Casa TO, to me, felt like I was living in another world. A true architectural masterpiece - designed by French architect Ludwig Godefroy. Nestled in La Punta Zicatela, Casa TO is the visual definition of zen. The space combines bare concrete with lush plants, warm fabrics, and a vibe that leaves you wanting to read by the pool all day with a hibiscus mezcalita in hand. While the architecture is one to be amazed by, the food and wine at their upstairs wine bar Glou Glou was the cherry on top.
Casa Ofelia
Mexico City is landlocked, and while it may not be your first thought as a snowbird, it is a vibrant and energetic hub with arguably one of the best food scenes in the world. CDMX is a lush city escape away with one-of-a-kind architecture, unique concept design stores, and is an unreal vintage fashion hub. Within Polanco, what I like to call the “Yorkville” of Mexico, is Casa Ofelia. It is a family owned property originally constructed in the 1950s, located in the heart of Polanco, steps away from the famous restaurant Pujol, the archaelogical museum, and Museo Soumaya (one of my favourites). Casa Ofelia truly felt like a home to me – and not to mention being attached to Cafe Niddo, every morning was a luxurious one. History meets warm hospitality at Casa Ofelia - what else can you ask for in a bustling city like CDMX?
Roost Glamping
White Lotus season 3 may be your sign to go to Thailand! If you’re wanting to travel as far away from the cold and are venturing Southeast Asia, Roost Glamping in Rawai, Phuket, Thailand is an unforgettable experience. Started by two New Zealand friends, Jona & Tom, Roost Glamping is a unique property away from the busy hub on the island. They brought their love for nature to Phuket, allowing hotel guests to enjoy incredible beaches, culture, and food. My stay was filled the best fresh fruit bowls, walks through the jungle, and the ability to fully disconnect.
