If you go: Costa Rica
Tabacon also offers an ancient ritual called Temazcal, similar to Native American sweat lodges. The resort's resident shaman from Mexico leads you through a series of chants and meditations in an ovenlike structure meant to resemble the womb. It gets pretty steamy thanks to a central fire pit, where water is poured over volcanic rocks and herbs. Prepare to sweat. The shaman can also perform native wedding ceremonies on site. Taking part in the Temazcal costs $65 per person.
Rooms at Tabacon start at $230 and go up to $375 for one of the spacious new suites in peak season.
The 940-acre resort has two restaurants, a dozen hot-spring pools and a new, top-notch spa. Transportation from the international airport in San Jose costs $80 for up to six people. Call toll-free at (877) 277-8291 or visit Tabacon.com. Lots of smaller and cheaper hotels can be found in nearby La Fortuna, a touristy town where both the English language and U.S. dollars are widely accepted.