Up Close: The New JW Marriott Guanacaste Resort and Spa, Costa Rica

There's a new luxury resort on the scene in Costa Rica: the JW Marriott Guanacaste Resort and Spa. Travel expert JohnnyJet was there for the grand opening back in June for what he calls "an incredible resort." (Service= cold towels and water bottles on arrival; rooms=great balconies and lavish bathrooms; restaurants= delish plates served with a smile.) Billed as "one of the most magnificent in Latin America," the ocean-facing resort is outside Tamarindo on the country's west coast.

If you can manage to pull yourself away from your spacious guest room (and luxurious bathroom), you'll find a slew of activities at your fingertips. Discover one of three beaches, surrounded by beautiful rainforest. Sip cocktails on Mansita beach and take in the sunset. There are four restaurants and bars to whet the appetite, and a world-class spa for rejuvenating treatments. Take a swim in the resort pool or hit the 18-hole championship golf course, designed by golf architect Mike Young with the 15th hole overlooking the blue Pacific.

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