The difference between trips and vacations is often times blurred, assumed to mean the same thing. Yet a trip involves detailed itineraries with each day planned to a tee, whereas vacations are much more relaxed and calming. With an abundance of pristine beaches, undisturbed nature and cozy climates, Latin America is an ideal destination for vacations. Sprawling throughout the region are five-star resorts like the ones below that foster an inviting, tranquil atmosphere.

1. Eden Roc at Cap Cana, Punta Cana, Dominican Republic

Transporting traditional European opulence to the utopia of the Caribbean, Eden Roc at Cap Cana is a soothing sanctuary situated along the coast of the Dominican Republic. Established since 2012, Eden Roc is hailed as one of the most high-tech estates in the Dominican Republic, featuring iPad controlled lighting, surround sound systems and flat screen TVs.

The intimate resort consists of 34 colorful suites and villas clustered around a man-made lagoon. Inside the guest rooms, splashes of color accentuate the sleek, modern design. The private rooms are fully furnished with luxurious amenities such as swimming pools, outdoor patios, marble jacuzzis and plush linens. Parked outside the rooms are guests’ own golf carts that make it easier to navigate through the estate. Heightening their guests’ experience, Eden Roc at Cap Cana prides itself on its variety of cuisine ranging from casual comfort foods to upscale fine dining that can be savored at any of the five venues at the resort.

Basking under the sun by the poolside isn’t the only option for visitors. With the assistance of the Eden Roc staff, guests can arrange hikes through the eco-trail, sign up for scuba diving lessons, ride horseback along the water, or hop aboard a catamaran and ride into the sunset. Seeking more revitalizing activities, guests can pamper themselves at the Solaya Spa where treatments combine native therapeutic remedies with renowned European products. While adults spend hours on the golf course, kids will be entertained at the Koko Kid’s Club where they can participate in contests, games, scavenger hunts and arts & crafts.

2. Carmel Charme Resort, Aquiraz, Brazil

Hidden from the animated lifestyle of the city of Fortaleza, Carmel Charme Resort in Aquiraz, Brazil is known to provide an ultimate level of privacy that enables guests to break free from all the stresses of life. The secluded resort features 35 cozy guest rooms with a wide variety of layouts to choose from. Whether guests choose to book a grand suite, loft, or bungalow, they are guaranteed breathtaking ocean views right from their balconies. Intent on making every guests’ stay as comfortable as possible, Carmel Charme Resort has equipped each room with imported sheets, a fully stocked mini bar, espresso machine and custom spa slippers. Guests can also look forward to a 42-inch LCD TV, sumptuous beds and free WiFi.

Outlined by scattered palm trees, the thermal pools are the center of attraction at Carmel Charme Resort. Lounge chairs under wooden canopies make for the perfect resting spot as the subtle breeze passes by. Fusing together ancient therapeutic methods from around the world with essential oils and lotions, the spa provides a wide variety of treatments designed to relieve stress, pain and muscle tension. Guests can also melt toxins away in the sauna or unwind in the resort’s whirlpool. Those who savor a more active approach to vacation might enjoy smashing balls at the indoor tennis court or bumping volleyballs on the beach.

3. El Silencio Lodge & Spa, Bajos del Toro, Costa Rica

The country of Costa Rica is one of the most sought after destinations in South America, praised for its eco-friendly and adrenaline driven tourism industry. El Silencio Lodge & Spa redefines the standards of resorts by drawing from its natural resources to deliver an unparalleled serene experience to all its guests.

Catered to all types of travelers, El Silencio Lodge & Spa features four different types of accommodations sprinkled in a tiered layout to ensure each space captures phenomenal mountain views. The standard Upscale Suites are complete with modern amenities, including a private viewing deck and a heated outdoor jet pool. Upgrading to a Riverside Suite comes with complimentary WiFi and closer proximity to the flowing river. El Silencio’s Master Suite features two bedrooms, as well as an increased level of privacy without sacrificing the liveliness of the forest. The ultimate accommodation at El Silencio Lodge & Spa is a private villa that not only includes two bedrooms and complimentary WiFi, but also dining and living spaces suitable for families, extended stays, or large groups of travelers.

Celebrating Costa Rica’s diverse flavor palette and exotic culture, Las Ventanas Restaurant serves up scrumptious dishes starring fresh ingredients picked from the resort’s own organic mini farm. The 5,000 square foot organic greenhouse is the source of the wide array of vegetables and quality spices used to create an unforgettable farm-to-table dining experience.

The natural surroundings creates an unlimited number of peaceful activities that deepen individuals’ connections with nature. El Silencio Lodge & Spa offers complimentary tree planting that allows guests to participate in Costa Rica’s carbon-offsetting initiatives. The resort also invites guests to join eco-guides on the mystic hike through the Hummingbird Garden and cloud forest trails. Other sporty activities include trekking to the magical waterfalls and zip lining over the canopy of the forests. More calming activities include a soothing lunch by the riverside or an intimate sunset dinner. Guests can also sign up for wine or coffee tastings, or pick their own vegetables from the organic farm and learn the recipes of local specialties from the chef.