WHAT THE GUIDEBOOKS SAY
"Designed to damage as little of the forest as possible, this attractive, eco-friendly place was built to use solar power, energy-efficient air-conditioning systems, and very little hardwood. The surrounding jungle is frequented by fearless monkeys and varied birds. The blue-tiled pool has an artificial cascade, water slide and swim up bar... kitchens and balconies and even a movie theatre. Families are welcome.” -Fodor's Costa Rica 2001
"Everything has been done right! There is no sacrifice on comfort..." -Lonely Planet Costa Rica, Rob Rachowiecki.
"Si Como No" (Yes, of Course) looks as if it fell from its own picture postcard. The whole complex could have been designed by Friends of the Earth." -The Costa Rica Hand Book, Christopher Baker.
“Si Como No (Spanish for “yes why not”) is the name of one of the most charming and romantic hotels in the country. Not only can you honeymoon in luxury – the hotel is situated in the rainforest, overlooking the sea adjacent to Manuel Antonio National Park. You can also marry in a secluded jungle setting…” -Bridal Guide, Jan/Feb. 1999
COSTA RICA EXPEDITIONS DESCRIPTION
Located in Manuel Antonio, the Hotel's 58 rooms are distributed within ten separate terraces located on ten acres of tropical gardens. The eco-friendly approach has low energy air conditioning, a Disney-like atmosphere, pool with water slide and swim-up bar, a movie theater, solar-heated Jacuzzi, and a fine seafood restaurant. Next to a small shopping center with a deli and a Internet café. Hot climate.
FROM THE HOTEL’S WEB SITE
Discreetly integrated into a tropical paradise is Si Como No. Proudly occupying the most idyllic hilltop in Manuel Antonio, this award-winning eco-designed Resort & Spa provides its own signature version of "barefoot luxury" to all its guests.
From Hotel Si Como No, you can visit nearby beaches, the National Park and mangroves. Not to mention the hotel's own Wildlife Nature Exhibits, which are adjacent to the property. Guests also enjoy a variety of water sports and local shopping, including the hotel's Gift Shop & Art Gallery.
Founded in 1992 by Ecovision, S.A., Hotel Si Como No has been a shining example of the global eco-tourism movement ever since it opened its doors. As such, the hotel is a unique blend of the country's incredible bio-diversity and the deeply-rooted cultural values of the Costa Rican people. An active member of many planet-saving conservation programs, Si Como No practices what has come to be called "sustainable hospitality."
Principal owner/general manager Jim Damalas came to Costa Rica over 25 years ago. Formerly, an art director and producer working in Hollywood, Mr. Damalas fell in love with the area upon his first visit when he camped in what was to become Manuel Antonio National Park. That "camping trip" turned out to be more than a vacation, but rather the beginning of a love affair with the country and its people that continues to this day.
For the original construction of Hotel Si Como No, Mr. Damalas insisted that the ecosystem remain as undisturbed as possible -- amazingly, only one tree was intentionally removed. Great care was taken to ensure that habitat was protected, including animal corridors, to assure the least impact on flora and fauna. Later, he maintained the same strict standards for the development of the adjacent Butterfly Botanical Gardens and the Crocodile Lagoons. What once seemed only a "pipe dream" is now one of the most popular eco-tourism destinations in Central America. Thanks to Mr. Damalas' exacting vision, guests quickly discover that a luxury hotel can indeed co-exist with nature.
"Si Como No" is an expression of the magical nature of Costa Rica's incredible bio-diversity. It's mission is to create a vacation experience deeply rooted in the culture and pace of this unique Democratic country. Even the name "Si Como No", which means "Yes, why not?", reflects the warm and engaging personality of Costa Ricans -- a people blessed with easy-going charm and optimism, complemented by their high level of literacy and good health care.
Located in Manuel Antonio, a veritable treasure chest of natural beauty, the hotel is surrounded by lush tropical rainforest, inviting soft sand beaches, and nearby rafting rivers. All rooms include a fully stocked mini bar, custom king, queen or double size beds and ocean or jungle views. You won't find television or CNN in your room, but rather the sounds of nature and the beauty of the tropical flora n fauna just beyond your private balcony. Again, each room is designed to help minimize its impact on the natural habitat.
Si Como No uses well water for gardening and maintenance, Bio-digesters for sewage, a gray water plant for laundry, biodegradable products for housekeeping, and city water for guest and employee usage. A Bocashi compost program utilizes waste from food preparation, and the hotel donates all glass, plastic and aluminum products to a local women's auxiliary in Quepos (ASOMUFAQ) each month.
Si Como No utilizes solar panels to heat water along with back up "on demand" instant gas water heaters. Double insulated windows and ceilings, plus natural canopy shade factors help reduce energy demands and maintain natural comfort values for the hotel guests and employees. Discreetly integrated into this tropical paradise is Si Como No. Proudly occupying the most idyllic hilltop in Manuel Antonio, this award-winning eco-designed Resort & Spa provides its own signature version of "barefoot luxury" to all its guests. |