A New Era for the Lobby
The resort’s lobby, the first impression for visitors, is set to transform. With a more residential feel, the redesigned space aims to evoke the warmth of a welcoming home. The addition of a satellite check-in area will streamline the arrival process, particularly for larger families, ensuring a smoother and more personalized experience. Complementing this will be a new dedicated concierge desk, poised to cater to the diverse needs of the resort’s guests.
Reimagining the Kids Club
For the younger guests, the Kids Club is being reimagined with a focus on adventure and education. The outdoor area will be completely revamped, featuring a ropes course, a climbing wall, and a vegetable garden, all brought to life by Freddy Salazar of Palmares Outpost. Inside, the space will be refreshed to offer an updated environment that continues to inspire creativity and play.
Rio Bhongo’s Two-Phase Transformation
Perhaps the most intriguing update is the two-phase renovation of Rio Bhongo. The first phase will be completed by November and will use the old retail space to introduce a unique blend of coffee culture and vinyl records, accessible via a new entrance from the road. Mornings will see the aroma of specialty coffees mingling with the warmth of fresh paninis and cannolis. As the day progresses, the venue will offer coffee cocktails, organic wines, and craft beers, inviting guests to linger and savor the moment.
At the heart of this experience is the Barista Class counter, where guests can dive into the craft of coffee-making guided by the resort’s passionate Baristas. The setting is further elevated by a collection of over 150 classic vinyl records—featuring artists like Pink Floyd, The Brothers Johnson, and Otis Redding—available for guests to play on a communal record player, cultivating a nostalgic vibe that encourages social interaction. Drawing inspiration from Tokyo’s listening bars, this space, open daily from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., offers a harmonious blend of music and coffee for a truly unique experience.
The further reimagining of the interior of Rio Bhongo will be in two phases. This year, a 10-seater bar with breathtaking views over Culebra Bay will be introduced in the space that was previously the juice bar area. By evening, the space will transform into a vibrant nightspot, offering classic bar fare alongside a lively entertainment program. High-top seating and a sleek counter will create an inviting space for socializing, making it the new go-to spot for guests looking to unwind as the sun sets.
These thoughtful updates signal Andaz Resort’s commitment to enhancing its offerings while staying true to the rich cultural tapestry that defines the Peninsula Papagayo experience.