Rustic: Kura Design Villas, Costa Rica

The northwestern province of Guanacaste has always been the epicenter of Costa Rica’s splashiest hotels—but all eyes are moving south to the lesser-known Osa Peninsula. A bumpy, 20-minute drive up a steep mountain from the tiny town of Uvita leads to the rustic-chic Kura Design Villas, the first property of its kind to open in the region. The six-room hotel—set within a verdant rain forest and overlooking jungle-lined beaches—is the passion project of a local couple (he’s the architect; she’s a marine biologist) who partnered with sustainable hospitality group Cayuga Collection (a T+L Global Vision Award winner in 2012). Solar-powered, open-plan rooms have glass-walled rain showers and bamboo ceilings. It’s nearly impossible not to unplug here, especially at night, when chirping crickets lulled us to sleep. The saltwater infinity pool is at the heart of the complex, and it’s no accident that it faces west. Come sunset, order a refreshing Guaria Morada cocktail, made with sugarcane liquor, blackberry, and coconut cream, and settle into a white leather chaise for the colorful show. kuracostarica.com. $$$$