Our Style Issue LE A SE TH E DRESS
S E P TE M B E R 2 02 6
Discover What’s Next at German International School Washington D.C.
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LIFESTYLE LETTER
A Season of Style
September 2026 PUBLISHER
Adam Taylor | adam.taylor@citylifestyle.com
Dear Readers, September has always felt like the season of fresh starts. The pace begins to slow, the air turns a little crisper and there's something inspiring about embracing a new season with renewed confidence. Whether it's refreshing your wardrobe, planning your next getaway or simply gathering with friends around the table, fall invites us to celebrate the beauty of change. This month's Style issue is all about confidence in every form. We're taking readers inside LeaseTheDress, where founder Mandira Curtis is redefining luxury fashion through personalized styling, sustainability and the belief that every woman deserves to feel extraordinary. We also introduce you to Farah Abazary, founder of Silhouette Bridal & Formal, whose passion for helping women find the perfect dress has made her boutique a destination for life's most memorable moments. Beyond fashion, we're sharing the inspiring story of Nora Babu, whose personal health journey became the foundation for a life dedicated to advocacy, music and compassion. Her resilience is a powerful reminder that style isn't just about what we wear. It's also reflected in how we live, lead and inspire others. If you're looking to plan your next escape, I'm excited to share one of my favorite recent adventures at Four Seasons Resort Peninsula Papagayo in Costa Rica. From unforgettable wildlife encounters and world-class dining to oceanfront wellness and breathtaking scenery, it truly earned a spot on my list of the world's most remarkable luxury destinations. Closer to home, we've rounded up some of the best local shopping destinations throughout Gaithersburg, making it easy to support small businesses while discovering unique fashion, gifts and hidden gems right in our own community. And because no fall gathering is complete without something delicious to share, don't miss this month's Harvest Board recipe featuring roasted grapes, whipped ricotta and hot honey, perfect for cozy evenings with family and friends. As we welcome a new season, I hope this issue encourages you to embrace confidence, discover something new and find beauty in the moments that make life feel extraordinary.
P U B L I CAT I O N D I R E C TO R
Carly Macmanus | carly.mac@citylifestyle.com M AN AG I N G E D I TO R
KC Cole | kc.cole@citylifestyle.com S O C I AL M E D I A C O O R D I N ATO R
Anicia Juarez | anicia.juarez@citylifestyle.com CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Carly Mac Manus, Catherine Norton-Valverde C O N T R I B U T I N G P H OTO G R AP H E R S
Farahnaz Abazary, LeaseTheDress, Kathy Donohue Babu, Carly Mac Manus, Four Seasons Resort Peninsula Papagayo, Costa Rica, Celyon Mitchell M3
Corporate Team CEO Steven Schowengerdt President Matthew Perry CRO Jamie Pentz CoS Janeane Thompson AD DESIGNER Zach Miller LAYOUT DESIGNER Kirstan Lanier QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Hannah Leimkuhler
Happy reading!
C A R LY M A C M A N U S , P U B L I C AT I O N D I R E C T O R @GAITHERSBURGCITYLIFESTYLE
Learn how to start your own publication at citylifestyle.com//franchise. Proverbs 3:5-6 Gaithersburg City Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the Gaithersburg area’s most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle
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L I F E ST Y LE LE T T E R
Publications’ opinions. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. Information in Gaithersburg City Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.
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inside the issue SE PTE M B E R 2 02 6 | STYL E
22 Featured
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26
Print Prestige Meets Digital Power.
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WHY CHOOSE BETWEEN PRESTIGE AND PLACEMENT?
Departments
The Art of the Perfect Fit
How Silhouette Bridal & Formal Founder Farah Abazary Is Helping Women Feel Their Most Beautiful
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Rising With Purpose
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Confidence, Curated
How Nora Babu Turned a Personal Health Crisis Into a Mission of Advocacy, Music and Compassion
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Lifestyle Letter
8
City Scene
10
Locally Sourced LIFE + CULTURE
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Fashion Forward LOCAL SERVICES
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Travel Journal TRAVEL
22
Local Limelight EDUCATION
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Must See BEAUTY
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Trend Setter TRAVEL
LeaseTheDress is redefining luxury fashion through personalized styling, sustainability and the belief that every woman deserves to feel extraordinary.
On the Cover Discover how LeaseTheDress is redefining luxury fashion with designer rentals, personalized styling and confidence-first service. Founder Mandira Curtis shares how timeless style, sustainability and exceptional experiences are changing the way women dress for life’s biggest moments. Photography: Celyon Mitchell M3
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SEPTEMBER 2026
city scene WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
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1: Honoring Bruce Goldensohn’s enduring legacy of leadership, service, and dedication to the Gaithersburg community for generations. 2: Celebrating Gaithersburg’s dedicated public safety heroes for their outstanding service, bravery, and unwavering commitment to community. 3: Recognizing the power of parks, recreation, and community connections that make Gaithersburg a vibrant place to thrive
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AROUND TOWN THE GENTLEMAN’S GUIDE TO GAITHERSBURG: WHERE TO SHOP. GROOM. DINE. PLAY. LIVE WELL.
ARTICLE BY CARLY MAC MANUS PHOTOGRAPHY BY GAITHERSBURG CITY LIFESTYLE
Who says style is just for the ladies? Looking sharp goes far beyond your wardrobe. Whether you’re refreshing your business attire, scheduling a much-needed haircut, planning date night, or keeping your home looking its best, Gaithersburg offers everything today’s gentleman needs. Here’s your local guide to living well this season.
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LOCA LLY SOU R CE D | L I F E + CU LT U RE
Dress to Impress
Tee Time Style
Style Starts at Home
A well-tailored wardrobe never goes out of style. Whether you’re shopping for the office, a wedding, or everyday essentials, Fiati in Kentlands specializes in custom menswear designed to fit your lifestyle. Complete the look with timeless leather shoes, a quality watch, and accessories that transition effortlessly from work to the weekend.
Best Cut & Grooming
Nothing elevates your appearance faster than a fresh haircut and beard trim. Liverpool Barber Shop delivers classic barbering with modern style, while The Woodhouse Day Spa - Gaithersburg offers men’s facials, massages, and treatments designed to help you look and feel your best.
Head to Laytonsville Golf Course for an afternoon on the greens, then stop by PGA TOUR Superstore in nearby Rockville to upgrade your golf apparel, shoes, and accessories before your next round.
Where to Take Clients (or Date Night)
For business dinners, celebrations, or simply unwinding after work, Coastal Flats at Downtown Crown serves fresh seafood and handcrafted cocktails in a polished setting. Looking for waterfront views? The Grilled Oyster Company at Rio delivers fresh oysters, steaks, and elevated American cuisine overlooking the lake.
A polished home exterior is just as important as a polished wardrobe. Since 2008, Superior Pressure Washing has helped homeowners and businesses throughout Montgomery County keep their properties looking their best. Their services include low-pressure house washing, roof cleaning, gutter cleaning, deck cleaning, commercial exterior cleaning, and holiday light installation. Familyowned and operated, Superior lives by its motto: “Our best reference is a satisfied customer.” Visit superiorwash.net or call (301) 949-8000 for a free instant quote.
Finish the Look Style is about confidence, attention to detail, and taking pride in every aspect of your life. From the clothes you wear and the places you gather to the home you return to each evening, Gaithersburg offers everything you need to look your best, live well, and make every day a little more refined.
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Farahnaz Abazary
T H E A RT OF
the perfect
FIT
H ow S i l h o u e t t e B r i d a l & Fo r m a l Fo u n d e r Fa r a h A b a z a r y I s H e l p i n g Wo m e n Fe e l T h e i r M o s t B e a u t i f u l ARTICLE BY CARLY MAC MANUS PHOTOGRAPHY BY FARAHNAZ ABAZARY
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FASH ION F OR WA R D | LOCAL SE RVICE S
Some women remember every detail of the dress they wore on one of the biggest days of their lives. Others remember something more meaningful: how they felt wearing it. For Farah Abazary, founder of Silhouette Bridal & Formal in Gaithersburg, creating that feeling has been her life’s work. Whether she is fitting a bride before her walk down the aisle, styling the mother of the bride for an unforgettable celebration or helping a pageant contestant step onto the stage with confidence, Abazary believes the perfect gown should do more than make a statement. It should allow a woman to feel completely herself. “I love the moment a woman puts on the right gown, looks in the mirror and stands a little taller,” Abazary says. “That feeling is the reason I do what I do.” Although Silhouette Bridal & Formal officially opened its doors in August 2023, the story behind the boutique began decades earlier. Growing up alongside her mother, Abazary was introduced to fashion through fabric, fittings and craftsmanship. Her mother, a highly respected designer in her time, spent her career creating and altering gowns, and those early experiences sparked a lifelong passion. “I learned from the master,” she says. “Every fabric and every stitch made me fall a little more in love with fashion and design.” For more than 30 years, Abazary has refined her skills in design, customization and alterations. Long before immigrating to the United States, she was already designing gowns professionally. After moving to the U.S. in 2014, she founded Farah Couture LLC, working as a designer, master seamstress and alteration specialist alongside many respected bridal boutiques throughout the DMV, before opening Silhouette in 2023. Today, Silhouette Bridal & Formal reflects not only her expertise but also her personal philosophy that every woman deserves individualized attention during life’s most meaningful celebrations. That personalized experience has become one of the boutique’s defining characteristics. Rather than rushing appointments or focusing solely on trends, Abazary takes time to understand each client’s story. Brides, mothers of the bride, mothers of the groom and pageant titleholders all arrive with different visions, personalities and milestones to celebrate. Finding the dress that complements both the occasion and the woman wearing it is what inspires her creative process every day.
“Every woman who walks into the boutique is treated like she’s the only one in the room,” she says. Her collections reflect that same thoughtful approach. Known for elegant, timeless gowns with intricate detailing, Silhouette Bridal & Formal focuses on pieces designed to flatter real women while remaining sophisticated enough to stand the test of time. Abazary favors silhouettes that photograph beautifully but never overshadow the person wearing them. “I want her to forget about the dress and simply enjoy her moment,” she says. That philosophy recently inspired one of the boutique’s newest additions: the Mother’s Collection. Featuring gowns created specifically for mothers of the bride and groom, the collection recognizes an often-overlooked role in the wedding celebration. “She’s part of the day too, and she deserves to feel beautiful,” Abazary says. The expansion reflects the continued growth of Silhouette Bridal & Formal, which has become a destination for women throughout Maryland, Virginia and Washington, D.C. Much of that growth has come through referrals from satisfied clients who share not only photos of their gowns but also stories about their experience inside the boutique. CONTINUED >
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Silhouette Bridal & Formal
For Abazary, those recommendations represent something far more meaningful than business success. “The biggest lesson is that this work was never really about dresses,” she says. “It’s about people and the moments they’ll remember forever.” Building a successful woman-owned business while raising two children alongside her husband remains one of her proudest accomplishments. She credits both her family and her customers for shaping the business into what it is today. As the seasons change, so do the collections filling the boutique. For fall, Abazary is embracing romantic sophistication with rich textures and soft shimmer. Her favorite palette includes mauve, champagne and subtle metallic tones paired with luxurious fabrics that bring warmth and elegance to evening celebrations. The looks balance modern trends with timeless appeal, ensuring they remain as beautiful in photographs years from now as they do the day they’re worn. Looking ahead, Abazary plans to continue expanding Silhouette Bridal & Formal’s collections while strengthening its presence within the local pageant community and serving even more women celebrating life’s milestones. Her mission, however, remains unchanged. Every fitting, every alteration and every final adjustment is centered on helping women feel confident during moments they will remember forever. For Abazary, success isn’t measured by the number of gowns sold or appointments booked. It’s measured by the smile that appears when a client catches her reflection and realizes she’s found the dress. And after more than three decades of creating those moments, that’s still the best part of the job.
WEBSITE
silhouettebridals.com
PHONE
240-324-2000
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FASH ION F OR WA R D | LOCAL SE RVICE S
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Behind the Birkin AN INSIDER’S ACCESS TO PARISIAN FASHION HOUSES ARTICLE BY CATHERINE NORTON-VALVERDE
No
r
o ton
f Se
ize the Trek
Travel expert Ca the
rin
PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
Paris is the undisputed capital of fashion, where luxury, craftsmanship, and history meet. In my many years of visiting this magical place, I never tire of visiting the classics. What if you could pull back the curtain and see how your favorite iconic French brands are made?… What if you could view archival pieces that have never been seen by the general public?…Come with me, Catherine NortonValverde of Seize the Trek Travel and let me show you the way. First, no fashion visit to Paris is complete without a stop at 31 Rue Cambon. This is where Coco Chanel revolutionized women’s fashion with timeless elegance and modern sophistication. Push open the door of a renowned couture atelier, the landmark that gathers
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T R AV E L J OU R N A L | TRAV E L
A view of the Eiffel Tower.
“SEE THE MAKING OF THE LEGENDARY BIRKIN BAG. THE BAG MADE FAMOUS BY ENGLISH SINGER/ STYLE ICON JANE BIRKIN; THE GOLD STANDARD OF FASHIONISTAS.” the savoir-faire of Chanel’s Métiers d’Art. Normally closed to the public, the working rooms reveal elegance shaped millimeter by millimeter: from pattern to silhouette through cutting, lasting, balancing, and hand-finishing. An insider pause in the restricted archive reveals historic offerings an intimate moment with the artisans whose hands bring collectors’ and Chanel’s guests vision to life. Next, I love a visit to Dior’s flagship on Avenue Montaigne which celebrates the glamour and innovation that have defined the brand since Christian Dior introduced his iconic “New Look” in 1947. Want to do something unique? At dawn immerse yourself in Dior’s enchanting world during a visit outside of regular opening hours. Accompanied by a knowledgeable lecturer guide deeply familiar with Dior’s fashion, staging, and artistry, this option offers the rare privilege of exclusive privatization. Explore this hallowed space in a profoundly intimate and personalized manner, fostering a deeper connection with Dior’s timeless creations. Delve into the fascinating history, artistic influences, and design philosophy that shaped Christian Dior’s iconic brand. Finally, The “Hermès” Atelier Experience, a once in a lifetime opportunity to visit the Hermès atelier in Pantin. See the making of the legendary Birkin bag. The bag made famous by English singer and style icon Jane Birkin; the gold standard of fashionistas. Six generations of mastery as the artisans’ craft bespoke leather goods that have made this an extraordinary brand. This is a very unique experience at Hermès, concluded by a VIP shopping experience at the Hermès flagship store. In my opinion, these legendary houses make Paris a destination where fashion becomes a cultural experience. For more information reach me at catherine@seizethetrek.com. seizethetrek.com | 240.350.0636
This page, first: Hermes Paris. Second: Black Birkin bag named for famed Jane Birkin. Photo by Andreas Rentz/Getty Images Third: Chanel Couture Dress in the atelier. Photo by Francois Durand/Getty Images Last: Fashion Show. Photo by Kristy Sparrow/Getty Images S EP TEMB ER 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/GA IT HE R S BUR G
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RISING WITH purpose How Nora Babu Turned a Personal Health Crisis Into a Mission of Advocacy, Music and Compassion ARTICLE BY CARLY MAC MANUS PHOTOGRAPHY BY KATHY DONOHUE BABU
At just 17 years old, Nora Babu is already proving that grace and grit can coexist beautifully. The Maryland teen, nonprofit founder, opera vocalist and pageant titleholder is using her platform to spotlight the people she says helped save her spirit during one of the most difficult seasons of her life: nurses. In October 2024, Babu experienced a frightening medical crisis when she woke up blind in one eye, leading to months of hospital stays, treatments and uncertainty. While doctors searched for answers, she says nurses became her constant source of comfort, strength and advocacy. That experience inspired The Nightingale Project, Babu's growing advocacy initiative dedicated to uplifting nurses and restoring humanity in health care. The organization focuses on storytelling, outreach, education and support for frontline health care workers facing burnout and emotional exhaustion. "The Nightingale Project is more than an advocacy platform; it is a living love letter to the nursing community," Babu explains in her initiative materials. Her mission is remarkably layered for someone still balancing AP classes, pageant appearances and a demanding performance schedule. Babu recently raised her GPA to an impressive 4.02 while pursuing advocacy work on a national scale. And she is doing it all with poise well beyond her years. A classically trained opera singer, Babu has performed in fully staged operas, attended Interlochen's prestigious opera program and recently performed at Carnegie Hall with the National Children's Chorus. Her background in music has become deeply connected to her mission, with performances in health care and assisted-living facilities designed to bring comfort, healing and appreciation to patients, residents and caregivers alike.
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Nora Babu
Most recently, Babu competed at the Miss Maryland's Teen competition, where she earned a place in the Top 5 and received the Sisterhood Award, the pageant's equivalent of Miss Congeniality, recognizing her character and support of fellow contestants. She has since accepted the title of Miss Montgomery County Teen Volunteer and will compete for the Miss Maryland Teen Volunteer America crown this August, continuing to advocate for nurses through her volunteer platform. Her advocacy has also earned statewide recognition. This summer, Babu received a proclamation from the governor recognizing Nurse Health and Safety Awareness Day, CONTINUED > S EP TEMB ER 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/GA IT HE R S BUR G
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along with citations from the Maryland General Assembly and the Washington County Commissioners Office honoring her work through The Nightingale Project. She was also named the first student ambassador for Nurses Shift Change, a growing coalition advocating for nursing and health care reform. Earlier this year, Babu traveled to Washington, D.C., during Nurses Week to participate in a national nursing rally at the U.S. Capitol. What began as attendance quickly evolved into something larger when she unexpectedly took the microphone and delivered a speech supporting nurses and health care workers. She also met with representatives from U.S. Rep. April Delaney's office to discuss continued support and resources for nurses. Beyond the stage and advocacy work, Babu represents a new generation of young leaders who are blending compassion with action. Whether she is speaking with legislators, performing opera for assisted-living residents or creating educational outreach through her children's book, Nurse Narwhal, her focus remains rooted in service and connection. Yet even amid growing recognition, Babu's mission remains deeply personal. "When I was at my most vulnerable, nurses were my strength and my hope," Babu says. "The Nightingale Project is my love letter to them." Readers can learn more by following The Nightingale Project on Instagram and listening to its podcast, available on Apple Podcasts and Spotify, where Babu interviews nurses about their experiences and the future of the profession. In a world often searching for more empathy, Nora Babu is quietly creating it, one story, one song and one act of advocacy at a time.
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LOCA L LIM E LIGH T | EDUCAT ION
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ARTICLE BY CARLY MAC MANUS PHOTOGRAPHY BY LEASETHEDRESS
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M UST SE E | BEAUTY
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premier luxury styling destinations, where designer fashion is accessible through a curated rental experience centered on confidence, individuality and exceptional service. Fashion has been woven into Curtis' life for as long as she can remember. Growing up, she watched her mother build a successful clothing business in India, an experience that shaped both her appreciation for craftsmanship and her entrepreneurial spirit. After moving to the United States, Curtis noticed a familiar pattern among women preparing for weddings, galas and milestone celebrations. Many were investing thousands of dollars in designer gowns they would wear only once. "I realized women weren't looking for more clothes," Curtis said. "They were looking for confidence, convenience and expert guidance." That realization became the foundation of LeaseTheDress. Rather than functioning as a traditional boutique, the business offers private styling appointments where every recommendation is tailored to the client's personality, event and vision. Curtis begins each appointment by learning about the woman in front of her before selecting a carefully curated collection of options. "The moment they smile at themselves in the mirror, we know we've found the one," she said. That personalized approach has earned the trust of women attending some of the region's most prestigious events. LeaseTheDress has styled clients for high-profile galas throughout the Washington area, dressed Emmy and Grammy Award winners and gained recognition through television appearances and magazine features.
Yet for Curtis, the most meaningful moments happen quietly inside the showroom. One client arrived convinced that nothing would fit and admitted she had not felt beautiful in years. After finding the perfect dress, she became emotional. Today, she is a returning client. Stories like that reinforce Curtis' belief that LeaseTheDress offers far more than designer gowns. "We're helping women rediscover their confidence," she said. As sustainability continues to reshape the fashion industry, the luxury rental model has become increasingly appealing. Renting allows garments to be enjoyed multiple times instead of sitting untouched in closets, reducing unnecessary consumption while giving clients access to premium designers without the long-term investment. Curtis sees that as a win for both women and the environment. "Luxury fashion deserves to be worn more than once," she said. Behind every dress is a process many clients never see. Curtis travels extensively in search of distinctive designers and statement pieces while spending CONTINUED >
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countless hours researching boutiques and authentic collections from around the world. Every garment is professionally cleaned, steamed, inspected and quality checked before its next appointment. For Curtis, luxury extends well beyond labels. "It's about the care, research and attention to detail that goes into every single piece," she said. Looking ahead to Fall 2026, Curtis is embracing rich jewel tones, structured tailoring, dramatic sleeves and luxurious textures that celebrate bold self-expression. While fashion trends will continue to evolve, she encourages women to choose pieces that make them feel remarkable rather than simply following what's popular. Her personal favorite reflects that philosophy perfectly: an embellished kaftan adorned with feathers. "It's effortless glamour," she said. That balance of elegance, personality and confidence defines everything LeaseTheDress represents. The business continues to expand its luxury collections, collaborate with organizations throughout the Washington region and host signature styling experiences. Curtis is also preparing to open a second location dedicated to Indian fashion, introducing clients to even more globally inspired designs. For Curtis, however, growth will always be measured by something more meaningful than square footage or inventory. "Style is confidence," she said. "When a woman leaves standing a little taller and smiling a little bigger, that's what style means to me."
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M UST SE E | BEAUTY
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FOUR SEASONS RESORT PENINSULA PAPAGAYO, COSTA RICA
Why Four Seasons Resort Peninsula Papagayo Belongs on Every Luxury Traveler’s Bucket List
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T R E N D SE T T E R | TRAVEL
ARTICLE BY CARLY MAC MANUS | PHOTOGRAPHY BY CARLY MAC MANUS,
Pura Vida, Perfected
There are vacations, and then there are the places that stay with you long after you've unpacked your suitcase. For me, Four Seasons Resort Peninsula Papagayo, Costa Rica, had always been one of those destinations. Nestled between the tropical dry forest and the Pacific Ocean, the Forbes FiveStar resort has long been regarded as one of Latin America's premier luxury escapes. This summer, I finally experienced it firsthand, and it surpassed every expectation. From the moment I arrived, pura vida wasn't simply a phrase. It became the rhythm of each day. Every detail felt intentional, blending Four Seasons' renowned hospitality with Costa Rica's extraordinary natural beauty in a way that never felt excessive. Here, luxury doesn't separate you from nature. It invites you to become part of it. Over four unforgettable days, my itinerary struck the perfect balance between adventure, wellness and exceptional dining. Each day revealed a different side of the peninsula, from snorkeling vibrant reefs and spotting wildlife to exploring rugged landscapes by off-road vehicle and unwinding with restorative spa treatments.
It was an introduction to Costa Rica that felt immersive rather than rushed. One of my favorite mornings began before breakfast in search of one of Costa Rica's most recognizable residents: the howler monkey. Watching them move effortlessly through the treetops just steps from my room was a reminder that wildlife isn't an attraction here. It's woven into everyday life. Scarlet macaws soared overhead, coatis wandered the pathways, and the sounds of the rainforest became the soundtrack to every morning. Later that afternoon, I traded the jungle canopy for the crystal-clear waters of Playa Blanca during a guided snorkeling excursion. Schools of brilliantly colored tropical fish glided through coral formations beneath the surface while the warm Pacific water made it easy to lose all sense of time. It's the kind of experience that reminds you why Costa Rica has become one of the world's leading destinations for sustainable adventure travel. The next day brought another unforgettable experience: exploring Peninsula Papagayo by off-road vehicle. Winding through forest trails, dramatic coastal
overlooks and secluded beaches, I discovered a side of the peninsula few travelers ever see. Equal parts exhilarating and scenic, the excursion perfectly reflected what makes this destination so unique. Adventure is always within reach, yet comfort is never compromised. Between excursions, the resort naturally encourages guests to slow down. Whether relaxing beside one of the infinity pools overlooking Culebra Bay, strolling the quiet beaches or enjoying a leisurely morning coffee from my terrace, every moment felt intentionally unhurried. There is no pressure to fill every hour. Simply being present becomes part of the experience. The culinary program deserves a destination of its own. Each meal celebrated Costa Rica's rich agricultural landscape while drawing inspiration from cuisines around the world. Fresh seafood, locally sourced produce and tropical ingredients appeared throughout every menu, thoughtfully prepared with the refinement expected of a Four Seasons property. One evening, I dined at Bahía, where fresh seafood and sweeping ocean views created an effortlessly elegant atmosphere. At Pesce, the resort's coastal Italian restaurant, handmade pastas and impeccably prepared seafood offered one of the standout meals of my stay. Even breakfast became an event, with tropical fruit, Costa Rican coffee and expansive views setting the tone for each day ahead. Nemare, the resort's signature Latin American steakhouse, was equally memorable, showcasing bold regional flavors in an intimate setting. Guests visiting later this year will discover an even more elevated experience. As part of an extensive enhancement project debuting in late 2026, Nemare is being thoughtfully redesigned with a dramatic new interior inspired by the Chorotega word for "smoke," expanded outdoor dining and an enhanced culinary program that further celebrates the traditions of Guanacaste. One experience I especially enjoyed was the resort's cooking demonstration, where I learned about traditional Costa Rican ingredients and techniques before preparing and tasting fresh sea bass ceviche. It offered a deeper appreciation for the country's culinary heritage beyond its celebrated beaches and rainforests. Of course, no luxury escape feels complete without time dedicated to wellness. CONTINUED >
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On my final morning, I experienced the Signature Rainforest Massage at The Spa. Inspired by the sounds, scents and natural elements surrounding Peninsula Papagayo, the treatment felt deeply restorative after several days of adventure. It was the perfect ending to a journey that balanced excitement with relaxation at every turn. The resort continues to redefine wellness through spaces like the Wellness Shala, personalized fitness programming, guided outdoor experiences and nutrition-focused offerings. Whether your version of selfcare includes sunrise yoga, surfing, hiking or simply reading beneath a swaying palm, every experience feels thoughtfully tailored to the individual. Perhaps what impressed me most wasn't any single activity. It was how seamlessly every element came together. Luxury here isn't measured solely by beautiful accommodations or impeccable service, though both are exceptional. It's found in the effortless transitions between adventure and relaxation, the conservation efforts integrated throughout the property, and the genuine warmth of every team member I encountered. Every experience felt carefully curated without ever feeling scripted. That philosophy continues well beyond today's guest experience. Four Seasons Resort Peninsula Papagayo is currently investing in a thoughtful evolution of the property that will debut later this year. Along with the reimagined Nemare, guests can look forward to 10 new one-bedroom Papagayo Suites, a redesigned Miramar Presidential Suite and refreshed meeting and event spaces inspired by Costa Rica's remarkable biodiversity. Rather than reinventing the resort, these enhancements build upon what already makes it exceptional, creating even more opportunities for guests to connect with the destination through elevated design and authentic experiences. It's easy to understand why so many travelers return year after year. Four Seasons Resort Peninsula Papagayo isn't simply a luxury resort. It's an invitation to reconnect with nature, embrace adventure and rediscover the joy of slowing down. If Costa Rica has been on your travel bucket list, this is the destination worth waiting for. Whether you're celebrating a milestone, planning a romantic getaway or simply seeking your next unforgettable escape, Four Seasons Resort Peninsula Papagayo offers the rare combination of refined luxury, authentic adventure and extraordinary natural beauty. Leaving may be the hardest part, but you'll already be planning your return before your flight home takes off. For more information visit fourseasons.com/costarica.
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