This resort has two important assets in its favor: Location and attitude. In the case of the former, location can't be overstated when you're talking about Costa Rica, everyone's favorite rainforest paradise these days. Paradisus Playa Conchal is the nicest all-inclusive in Costa Rica. And while all-inclusives in other places might be fancier or newer, none can claim that top-of-the-charts location on Costa Rica's fabled Pacific Coast, nestled in the jungle amongst hyperactive howler

This resort has two important assets in its favor: Location and attitude. In the case of the former, location can't be overstated when you're talking about Costa Rica, everyone's favorite rainforest paradise these days. Paradisus Playa Conchal is the nicest all-inclusive in Costa Rica. And while all-inclusives in other places might be fancier or newer, none can claim that top-of-the-charts location on Costa Rica's fabled Pacific Coast, nestled in the jungle amongst hyperactive howler monkeys, moments from protected beach areas where leatherback sea turtles lay their eggs… but still, conveniently, less than an hour's drive from the international airport in Liberia.

As for that attitude? When you're on vacation, it can make the difference between a pleasant stay and an outstanding one. And due credit to the locals: Everyone on staff here, from the front-desk clerk to the shuttle driver to the short-order cook flipping burgers at the poolside grill, is helpful and engaged and—by the looks of it—happy to be a part of things. This warmth affects the whole vibe of the place, so strangers tend to be unusually chatty with each other, and everyone's comfortable venturing around alone, even sixty-something women.

Aesthetically the resort is very pretty, if a bit spread out. The main building is on a hill, with shuttle service to the guestrooms, and a beachfront entertainment courtyard on one end of the property containing all the shops and nightspots. This is also where you'll find the main pool—the largest in Central America, according to staff. It's a natural gathering place: by day, when most of the guests stake out sun loungers early and only venture away from them for a quick dip or to grab a drink; and by night, when stage shows, live music, and club nights keep everyone entertained (with the assistance of free-flowing alcohol). Although most people don't spend a lot of time in the ocean, there's a great little open-air crafts bazaar right on the beach and shaded by the trees; about 20 stalls sell jewelry and handicrafts.

Lena Katz is the author of the Travel Temptations series, published by Globe Pequot, including the recently published SUN: California and SIP: California guides.