PROJECT CONCEPT

Anasazi is the name of a pre-Colombian civilization forged on the basis of a culture at  peace and in harmony with nature, which has served as inspiration for construction of these villas as a contemporary expression of their enduing legacy.

Escaping from a long period of wars between different tribes in North America, the native Anazasi, whose name means “the Ancient Ones,” took refuge from the threat of their enemies in difficult-to-reach places amidst the mountain heights. In that way, the nomadic lifestyle that they had known in the plains was transformed into a more settled and pastoral pattern of life.  They developed new construction techniques with their use of adobe, permitting easier storage of food and water, better protection from cold weather, and a unique system for circulating fresh air to cool off on hot days.

The free time that was created by this new lifestyle they dedicated to rest, reflection, and observation of nature and the stars, from which emerged essential new techniques for their activities related to cultivation of the land, development of the arts, and planning in preparation for possible future events.

These teachings of “the Ancient Ones” along with contemporary conservation strategies contributed to the concept of sustainable ecology with which the Villas Anazasi were planned and constructed.  In addition to offering all the comforts and conveniences of modern technology, we provide our guests with technical alternatives and incentives for reducing consumption such as the gathering and maintenance of flowers, fruits and vegetables from the residential gardens in pursuit of increased ecological consciousness.

Construction Details

• All available means of protecting the environment were utilized in both the design and construction of these villas.
• No heavy machinery was used in the process of excavation in order to avoid possible soil erosion or drainage into the ocean.
• Local materials and manual laborers were employed in order to minimize production of hydrocarbons. Teak wood specifically cultivated for such construction was used in order to avoid contributing to deforestation, and recycled driftwood was fashioned into rustic natural home furnishings.
• Neither sand nor stone from the beaches were used, in order to respect and preserve their natural beauty.
• The drainage of wastewater is directed into a treatment system using discarded plastic containers collected from the beaches, as a result of various clean-up campaigns conducted on Playa Manzanillo.
• A natural terracotta color paint for the exterior walls, an adobe finish appearance, and the choice of local vegetation adorning the landscape – all of these features minimize the visual impact of these dwellings amidst their natural surroundings. As a result, the natural scenic views remain undisturbed and local animal species are not deterred from continuing to feel at home in their habitat.
• Although each of these villas possesses an incredible panoramic view, they cannot be seen from other vantage points, thus achieving a high degree of privacy and tranquility while respecting the existing landscape.

FAQs – Frequently Asked Questions

How many seasons are there and what are they like?

There are two annual seasons: the dry season popularly known as summer which stretches across the months of November to April; and the rainy or wet season – ironically referred to as winter – which lasts from May through October.  The summer season has average daytime high temperatures of 32 degrees centigrade and nighttime low temperatures of 27 degrees centigrade. The rainy off-season yields daytime highs closer to 29 degrees centigrade , and nighttime lows of 24 degrees centigrade. Despite being referred to as the wet or rainy season, it rarely rains all day, and so it is equally possible to enjoy a brilliant sunny morning or afternoon during these months as well.

What kinds of local dining and shopping are available?

The local town has four restaurants whose menu offerings range from a simple typical breakfast of gallo pinto (mixed rice and beans) with corn tortillas, fried eggs and a delicious cup of Costa Rican coffee, to a delicious fresh lobster dinner complete with vegetables and French fries. In addition, there are three pulperías (small grocery markets selling food and miscellaneous items), two beachfront bars, 24-hour taxi service, and public bus transportation to other popular tourist destinations.

What recreational opportunities will I find?

There are various scenic tours available, led by knowledgeable local guides, which can be done on foot or on horseback. Horses or bicycles can also be rented for a very affordable daily rate. There is a full soccer field nearby where competitive games can be enjoyed by the spectator, and where the hearty athletic visitor can join in for an always lively pick-up game. Sport fishing and sightseeing boat tours can be accessed from nearby port towns just minutes away. For the surfing enthusiast, a quick glance from the villa balconies is enough to tell when the waves are at their best and it’s time to grab your board and ride to your heart’s content. Surfing classes are also available for beginners or those looking to improve their technique. 

For more restful pastimes, you can seek out a relaxing massage, or join with others for a soothing session of meditation or yoga. The villas themselves offer a great place to pursue individual artistic activities, or just lounge in a hammock on the balcony with a good book and local refresco (deliciously natural fruit coolers) while taking in the late afternoon sunset. Remember that sundown comes early near the equator, so the nights are longer and the nightlife better in Costa Rica. The full range of Latin-style dancing can be enjoyed at various nightspots throughout the region, and private or group lessons are available for every level of interest and ability.  Whether your preference is for the famous and hot Cuban Salsa, the savory and smooth Dominican Merengue, or the happy and upbeat Colombian Cumbia, you will find it all here in Playa Manzanillo or the nearby neighboring towns of Peninsula de Nicoya.