A Class IV Arrival

I am recalling a trip I took to Paris with a few friends. We were headed to our accommodations for the first time, via train and metro. The metro station we thought was closest to our hotel actually was not. We spent hours (did I say hours because I meant HOURS) wandering the streets of one of Paris' suburban districts. 

Hotel arrivals can actually be part of the overall experience and in a GOOD way. Recently I am noticing more and more hotels incorporating some sort of over the top way for their guests to arrive. The more unique the arrival the more exclusive or remote the hotel, it seems. 

The Pacuare River, often described as one of the most beautiful white water rivers in the world, flows from its origin in the Talamanca Mountains through the rainforest towards the Caribbean coast of Costa Rica. How enticing would it sound if I told you that in order to get to the Pacuare Lodge in Costa Rica that you had to raft down the Pacuare River's class III and IV rapids while your luggage follows you in a supply boat? Well consider yourself told and possibly enticed. 

There are 13 "rainforest bungalows" with nearly 360 degree views of the river and rainforest. It is not often we have the opportunity to shower alfresco.  However, each bungalow has an in door and out shower so that you don't miss a piece of nature while you are showering. Watch out for those monkeys though...they tend to peek when they are not supposed to.                                                                                          

As nice as all of this sounds, I actually haven't told you the best part. Electricity is generated by a small hydraulic station and is used exclusively to light up the walkways. Other than on the walkways you will not find a lightbulb on property. Beginning at dusk the entire lodge is lit by candlelight. You will dine by candlelight and relax in your bungalow, all by candlelight. 

The Pacuare Lodge is a blend between pure nature and unexpected luxury on the banks of the Pacuare River. In every essence of the words, the lodge is a tropical hideaway deep in Costa Rica's rainforest where guests fall asleep to the sound of rushing water intermixed with the calls of the wild. And yes, you really do make quite a grand entrance via raft!