A High-Stakes Hotel Renovation Near the Dreamy Costa Rica Coastline Sets the Stage for HGTV’s New Series ’Betting on Paradise’

While seeking the “Pura Vida” way of life in idyllic Costa Rica, Luke Shantz and Steph Sitt will risk it all on a high-stakes hotel transformation in the new HGTV series Betting on Paradise, premiering Tuesday, Jan. 7, at 9 p.m. ET/PT. During the six one-hour episodes, the couple, with two young daughters in tow, will embark on their biggest and scariest adventure yet—moving sight unseen to the coastal town of Jacó and buying a crumbling piece of prime real estate with the dream of creating a luxury boutique hotel. With the financial backing of friends and investors on the line, Luke will employ his construction background and years working in trades and Steph will tap into her high-end hospitality experience to overcome massive structural issues, frustrating delays and shocking budget increases to bring Hotel Amavi to life in time for peak tourist season. 

“We’ve gambled everything on this hotel, and we’re all in,” said Luke. “We don’t have anything to fall back on at this point.” 

“The motel is closed, so money is going out and nothing is coming in,” said Steph. “We need to open as soon as possible, because right now we’re just in the red.”  

In the series premiere, Luke and Steph will tour the decrepit property for the first time, discovering damage at every turn. To kick start the daunting renovation process, they’ll hire a local builder to help Luke navigate construction nuances in a foreign country, as well as a designer to capture Steph’s vision for an upscale tropical oasis in eclectic boho style. Once they receive unsettling news that most of the hotel’s guest rooms are beyond repair, the duo also will contend with the start of the country’s rainy season as they reimagine the layout and design of the spaces.  

As the episodes continue, Luke and Steph will balance the colossal hotel overhaul, including nine guest rooms featuring a honeymoon suite and two casita suites, a lobby, a pool with outdoor bar and a giant exterior mural, with raising their daughters and exploring Costa Rica’s beauty through hiking, surfing and ATV riding. Ultimately, they’ll not only celebrate the completion of the hotel but also their own intimate seaside wedding. 

For more exclusive Betting on Paradise content, HGTV fans are invited to stay connected on HGTV’s digital platforms by following @HGTV and #BettingonParadise on Facebook, X (formerly known as Twitter), Instagram, TikTok and Threads. They also can follow Luke and Steph on Instagram at @steph.and.luke.  

Betting on Paradise is produced by Cineflix Productions. 

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