Relocating to a new country without ever stepping foot in it sounds like a gamble, but for Canadian couple Luke Shantz and Steph Sitt, it was a calculated risk. Trading the cold winters of Canada for the tropical allure of Costa Rica, Luke and Steph moved to the coastal town of Jacó, Puntarenas, with an ambitious plan: to renovate an aging property into a luxury boutique hotel. Their bold journey will be featured in HGTV’s upcoming series Betting on Paradise, premiering Tuesday, January 7.
This six-episode series offers a behind-the-scenes look at the challenges and triumphs of their new life in Costa Rica, from navigating construction hurdles to adjusting to a laid-back yet unfamiliar culture.
Betting Big on a Dream
Luke and Steph, along with their young daughters, are betting it all on this venture. “We’ve gambled everything on this hotel, and we’re all in. We don’t have anything to fall back on at this point,” Luke shared. It’s a high-stakes situation made possible through financial backing from friends and investors. Luke brings his construction expertise and decades of trade experience to the project, while Steph leverages her upscale hospitality knowledge to create the perfect guest experience.
Their goal? To transform the dilapidated property into Hotel Amavi, a nine-room tropical paradise featuring a honeymoon suite, two casita suites, a lobby, a pool with an outdoor bar, and an iconic exterior mural.
But the path to paradise isn’t paved with ease. The couple faces unexpected structural issues, budget overruns, and the looming rainy season, all while trying to open the hotel in time for Costa Rica’s peak tourist season.
The Reality of Relocating
Moving to Costa Rica presented its own set of challenges. In the opening episode of Betting on Paradise, viewers will watch as Luke and Steph tour their property for the first time, only to discover the extensive work needed to bring their vision to life.
To tackle the renovation, Luke partners with a local contractor to navigate the complexities of Costa Rican construction codes and materials. Meanwhile, Steph enlists the help of a designer to bring her vision of an eclectic bohemian retreat to fruition.
The couple’s plans take a major hit when they learn that many of the hotel’s guest rooms are beyond repair. Forced to rethink their layout and design plans, Luke and Steph must also contend with the rainy season, which adds another layer of difficulty to their already demanding timeline.
Building a Life in Costa Rica
Renovating a hotel is only half the story. The Shantz-Sitt family’s journey also includes adapting to life in Costa Rica, balancing family responsibilities, and embracing the local culture.
From hiking lush trails to catching waves on Jacó’s renowned surf beaches and ATV-riding through rugged terrain, the show highlights the family’s adventures in one of the world’s most biodiverse countries. Costa Rica’s “Pura Vida” lifestyle offers a stark contrast to their previous life in Canada, teaching them the art of slowing down while staying focused on their goals.
A Lesson in Resilience
Despite their best efforts, Luke and Steph’s journey is fraught with unexpected setbacks. Rising costs, weather challenges, and unforeseen complications force them to make difficult decisions under tight deadlines.
Steph explains, “We need to open as soon as possible because, right now, we’re just in the red.” For a family that has poured everything into this dream, the pressure is immense. But their determination to succeed fuels their drive to overcome every obstacle.
Why Jacó?
Jacó’s popularity as a coastal town makes it an attractive destination for expats, surfers, and tourists. Known for its vibrant nightlife, picturesque beaches, and outdoor activities, Jacó offers the perfect backdrop for a boutique hotel.
However, transforming a neglected building into a high-end retreat in such a bustling area is no small feat. The series explores the unique challenges of working in this dynamic locale while maintaining the authenticity of Costa Rica’s natural beauty and culture.
What to Expect from Betting on Paradise
The HGTV series isn’t just about construction and design; it’s also about family, resilience, and adventure. From moments of frustration to flashes of joy, Betting on Paradise showcases the emotional and physical toll of turning a dream into reality.
Luke and Steph’s story will resonate with anyone who has ever dreamed of starting over in a new place or embarking on an entrepreneurial journey. It’s a reminder that success often requires grit, adaptability, and a willingness to take risks.
Will They Make It?
The stakes are high, and the odds are uncertain, but if there’s one thing Luke and Steph have proven, it’s that they’re willing to put in the hard work to make their dream a reality.
Whether they meet their deadline or face delays, Betting on Paradise promises to deliver an engaging tale of ambition, family, and the pursuit of a better life.
