“Even those who live in paradise need a change every now and then.” I overheard this line a few weeks back while waiting to check out at the grocery store. For those of us transplants from the U.S., Canada and other foreign parts, sometimes it’s necessary to escape our little paradise of Costa Rica for a new perspective and a much-needed vacation.    

When my family needs a break, we often jet to the U.S. city of Ft. Lauderdale, in Florida, for a few days of sun, fun, shopping, dining and relaxation. After staying at several hotels that didn’t quite hit the mark for us, we stumbled upon a quiet upscale resort on the beach with an interesting Costa Rica connection.  

The Lago Mar Club and Resort offers the perfect combination of a beach-resort experience with a country-club feel. Luxurious rooms, a family-friendly environment, huge outdoor pools, fully appointed spa, gourmet dining and private beach are just a few of the charms that set this hotel apart from the rest. Located within a mile of the cruise port, the resort is also a great place to relax before starting or ending a cruise. Visitors can even gaze the cruise ships leaving the port near sunset – an amazing and memorable sight.