Wellness seekers are drawn to Andaz Peninsula Papagayo in Costa Rica to immerse themselves in the transformative philosophy of the Blue Zones. At the heart of this experience is Céline Vadam, wellness consultant and coach, whose passion for holistic living has helped shape this beloved retreat into a meaningful tradition. As the third annual Blue Zones™ Retreat approaches in December, Céline reflects on the power of community, the beauty of Costa Rican culture, and the small yet impactful shifts that inspire lasting change.
This will be the third annual Blue Zones™ Retreat at Andaz Peninsula Papagayo. What makes this year’s program especially meaningful for you?
It’s always a pleasure to return to Costa Rica. I love this country, and the team at the Andaz is incredible. Each year, we refine the experience to make it even more special for everyone involved. When I first attended the retreat in June of last year, one of the women from the local community we visit was pregnant. When I came back in February, I met her baby and now I can’t wait to see how much she’s grown and how their honey production project is progressing. Going back always feels like visiting family. This year is even more special because my 20-year-old daughter will be joining me.
The Blue Zones concept is rooted in over 20 years of research on the world’s longest-living communities. Which of the Blue Zones Power 9® principles resonates most with participants?
Before the retreat, participants often connect most with the Purpose principle. Afterward, they gain a deeper appreciation for Downshifting and how it influences every area of their lives. We explore the nervous system and the neuroscience behind downshifting, and participants begin to understand that this is the grounding foundation for anything they hope to achieve.
Costa Rica is one of the original Blue Zones. How does the location itself enhance the retreat experience?
There’s a unique energy when you arrive in Costa Rica. Pura Vida isn’t just a phrase—it’s a philosophy you can feel everywhere you go. Many of the Andaz Costa Rica staff come from Nicoya, the nearby Blue Zone, and they love sharing stories about their centenarian grandparents and neighbors. The resort itself is a serene sanctuary immersed in the jungle, with monkeys playing by the pool, stunning beaches, and a warm, caring team. The food is exceptional, and the environment feels nurturing and safe—the perfect space for self-reflection and growth. Through cultural activities, nature experiences, and local cuisine, participants are deeply anchored in Costa Rican culture.
Travelers are increasingly seeking purpose-driven escapes. How does this retreat move beyond relaxation into deeper transformation?
The retreat is designed to help participants dive into themselves. Blue Zones stories and principles act as a framework for reflection across all aspects of life. It’s powerful to watch guests open up, grow, and glow a little more each day. The feedback afterward is always moving—participants leave feeling strong, curious, creative, and connected. Many form lasting friendships; some groups still speak weekly, even a year later. One participant even sold her house in the U.S., moved to a smaller one, bought a place in Europe, and now lives her best life between two continents.
The retreat blends workshops, cooking classes, movement, and cultural immersion. Can you share an example of how guests connect with these elements in a lasting way?
Guests get to try new activities, reconnect with forgotten passions, or approach familiar practices with fresh eyes. They learn so much—it’s hard to choose just one example! After the barista workshop, they never drink coffee the same way again. They carry the kindness of the local family we visit in their hearts. Breathwork sessions transform their relationship with their nervous system. Gallo pinto, the traditional rice and beans dish, helps many reconcile with ingredients they’d overlooked. Each module ends with a personal commitment, and by the end of the retreat, participants build a personalized action plan to integrate these practices into their daily lives.
You’ve said this retreat is about small but meaningful changes. What is one practical tool or shift guests can take home and integrate right away?
The retreat is about meaningful changes—big or small, depending on each participant’s journey. Some go home ready to make major life shifts, while others begin with simple daily practices like a 10-minute walk after lunch or a three-minute gratitude meditation each morning. Others might reconnect with loved ones or try a new hobby to build community. I present a variety of tools and perspectives so that each guest can choose what suits their lifestyle. That’s the beauty of the Blue Zones principles—they can be adapted in countless ways. For example, downshifting might mean gardening in Okinawa, napping in Costa Rica and Ikaria, chatting with friends in Sardinia, or praying in Loma Linda. Everyone finds their own rhythm.
For first-time participants who may feel intimidated by the idea of a wellness retreat, what would you tell them?
If you feel called to join, trust that instinct. You’ll meet wonderful people, be well cared for, and learn so many inspiring things. Everyone is met where they are in their journey. It’s always amazing to see how each group forms—the right people seem to come together, and there are countless moments of “Oh, me too!” It’s a space where you can be yourself, feel heard, and be supported. Beyond learning about Blue Zones and wellness, you’ll discover so much about yourself and others.
How do you personally incorporate Blue Zones practices into your lifestyle?
I grew up in France living the Blue Zones way before it had a name. Learning about the principles simply put into words the way I was already living. I’m a holistic wellness enthusiast—I love neuroscience, somatic and spiritual practices, healthy cooking, and movement. I integrate my research and expertise into my work with WE(i) Think and Retrouv’I, as well as in my collaborations with luxury hotels. For example, at the new Four Seasons Hotel in Rabat, every detail—from design to guest experience—was crafted to foster transformation, often without guests even realizing it. I bring that same level of care into every area of my life. “How you do one thing is how you do everything.”
What do you hope guests walk away with after five days immersed in this retreat?
I hope they leave feeling grounded, relaxed, inspired, and empowered to take the next steps in their lives.
Photography Credit: Andaz Peninsula Papagayo
