Luke Shantz and Steph Sitt, along with their two daughters, Mia and Luna, decided it was time for a change after spending the pandemic cooped up in their home in Canada. They sold their house, depleted their savings, and moved to Jacó, Costa Rica, to refurbish a dilapidated hotel. Their story is one of resilience, determination, and the pursuit of a dream, despite the many challenges they faced along the way.
Imagine uprooting your entire life, selling your home, and moving to a foreign country you’ve never visited before. That’s exactly what Luke and Steph did when they left Canada for Costa Rica. Their bold journey is now the focus of HGTV’s new show, “Betting on Paradise,” which premiered on January 7, 2025. Their journey is not just about renovating a hotel; it’s about taking risks, embracing new opportunities, and redefining what it means to live a fulfilling life.
Early Life and Upbringing
Luke’s Childhood in Grand Bend
Luke grew up in the small town of Grand Bend, located on the shores of Lake Huron, two hours outside of Toronto. Raised in a close-knit community, Luke’s childhood was filled with outdoor adventures, from swimming in the lake to exploring the surrounding forests. His upbringing in a rural setting instilled in him a love for nature and a strong work ethic, which would later prove invaluable in his journey to Costa Rica.
Steph’s City Life in Toronto
In contrast, Steph was a city girl through and through. Born and raised in Toronto, she was accustomed to the hustle and bustle of urban life. Growing up in a diverse and vibrant city, Steph developed a passion for hospitality and service, which led her to pursue a career in the hotel industry. Her city upbringing provided her with a unique perspective and skill set that complemented Luke’s rural background.
Family Background
Luke’s Siblings and Parents
Luke comes from a large family with four siblings: Ryan, Aaron, Jordan, and Bethany. He is the middle child, sandwiched between Aaron and Jordan. His parents, Phil and Anne, played a significant role in shaping his values and work ethic. Phil, a hardworking tradesman, and Anne, a dedicated homemaker, instilled in their children the importance of perseverance and community.
Steph’s Siblings and Parents
Steph, on the other hand, has two older brothers, Andrew and Brian. Her parents, Wendy and Patrick, were supportive and encouraging, always pushing her to pursue her dreams. Wendy, who moved from Hong Kong to Canada at the age of 18, brought with her a rich cultural heritage that influenced Steph’s upbringing. Patrick, a successful businessman, taught Steph the importance of hard work and determination.
The Journey Begins
The decision to leave Canada and move to Costa Rica was not made lightly. Like many families, the pandemic had taken a toll on Luke and Steph. They found themselves longing for a change of scenery and a fresh start. The idea of living in a tropical paradise was tempting, and they felt a strong urge to break free from their routine life. After much deliberation, they decided to take the plunge and relocate to Costa Rica, despite never having visited the country before.
One of the most significant steps in their journey was selling their home in Toronto. This decision came with a mix of excitement and apprehension. They understood that leaving behind the familiar and venturing into the unknown required financial sacrifices. Luke and Steph depleted their savings to fund their move and purchase a dilapidated hotel in Jacó.
Career Background
Luke’s Experience in Construction and Landscaping
Luke’s background in construction and landscaping played a crucial role in their journey. With years of experience under his belt, Luke was well-equipped to handle the challenges of renovating a run-down hotel. His skills in construction, coupled with his passion for creating beautiful outdoor spaces, made him the perfect candidate for the task. Luke’s expertise not only saved them money but also ensured that the renovation was done to their exact specifications.
Steph’s Background in Hospitality
Steph’s extensive experience in the hospitality industry was another significant asset. Having worked in various hotels and resorts, Steph had a deep understanding of what it took to create a welcoming and enjoyable experience for guests. Her skills in management, customer service, and event planning were invaluable in transforming the hotel into a thriving business. Steph’s hospitality background complemented Luke’s construction skills, making them a dynamic duo.
Meeting in Taiwan
Luke and Steph’s paths first crossed in Taiwan, where they were both teaching English at a private school. Their shared passion for education and adventure brought them together. Teaching in Taiwan provided them with valuable experiences and a deeper understanding of different cultures.
Living and working in Taiwan was a transformative experience for Luke and Steph. They immersed themselves in the local culture, made lifelong friends, and explored the country’s rich history. Their time in Taiwan laid the foundation for their adventurous spirit and willingness to embrace new challenges.
Relocation to Costa Rica
Relocating to Costa Rica was a monumental task that came with its share of challenges and expectations. Luke and Steph had to leave behind their familiar life in Canada and adapt to a new culture, language, and environment. They faced logistical challenges such as shipping their belongings, finding a place to stay, and navigating the local bureaucracy. Despite the hurdles, their excitement and determination kept them motivated.
The adjustment period was both thrilling and daunting. Costa Rica’s tropical climate, vibrant culture, and laid-back lifestyle were a significant shift from their life in Toronto. Luke and Steph had to learn Spanish, make new friends, and integrate into the local community. They also had to adapt to a slower pace of life, which initially felt unfamiliar but soon became a welcomed change.
Purchasing the Hotel
When Luke and Steph first laid eyes on the hotel they intended to purchase, it was far from glamorous. The building was run-down, with peeling paint, broken windows, and overgrown vegetation. However, they saw potential where others saw decay. The hotel’s location in Jacó, a popular tourist destination, made it an ideal investment despite its dilapidated state.
With Luke’s construction background and Steph’s hospitality expertise, they quickly formulated a plan to refurbish the hotel. Their vision was to transform the property into a boutique hotel that combined modern amenities with the charm of Costa Rican culture. They prioritized structural repairs, updated the interior design, and created inviting outdoor spaces. Their goal was to provide a comfortable and memorable experience for their future guests.
Family Life
For Mia and Luna, the move to Costa Rica was a significant change. They had to adapt to a new school, make new friends, and learn a new language. Despite the challenges, the girls quickly adjusted and embraced their new surroundings. Luke and Steph made sure to create a supportive and nurturing environment for their daughters, encouraging them to explore and enjoy their new home.
Luke and Steph’s extended family played a crucial role in their journey. Both sets of parents, as well as their siblings, were supportive and visited them in Costa Rica. The family’s involvement provided emotional support and helped ease the transition. During the renovation process, family members pitched in, offering their skills and expertise. Their presence also brought a sense of familiarity and comfort to the new environment.
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The Hotel Transformation
The renovation process was not without its challenges. Costa Rica’s intense rainy season posed significant obstacles, causing delays and complicating construction work. Luke’s experience in construction proved invaluable as he navigated these challenges, finding creative solutions to keep the project on track. Despite the setbacks, Luke and Steph’s determination and hard work paid off.
The rainy season in Costa Rica can be relentless, with heavy downpours and flooding. Luke and Steph had to plan their renovation work around the weather, often working long hours to make the most of dry days. They also had to ensure the hotel’s infrastructure could withstand the heavy rains, reinforcing the building’s foundations and improving drainage systems.
Grand Opening
The grand opening of Luke and Steph’s refurbished hotel was a momentous occasion. After months of hard work, they were ready to unveil their labor of love to the world. The inauguration event was a grand celebration attended by family, friends, and locals. Luke and Steph felt a profound sense of accomplishment as they welcomed their first guests, showcasing the transformation they had achieved.
The initial reception of the hotel was overwhelmingly positive. Guests were impressed by the stylish design, comfortable accommodations, and the warm hospitality provided by Luke and Steph. Positive reviews began to pour in, praising the couple’s dedication and the unique charm of the hotel.
The Show: Betting on Paradise
“Betting on Paradise” is an HGTV show that chronicles Luke and Steph’s journey of relocating to Costa Rica and renovating their hotel. The show captures the highs and lows of their adventure, from the initial decision to move, to the challenges of refurbishment, and the grand opening of their hotel. The format includes behind-the-scenes footage, interviews with the couple, and glimpses of their daily life in Jacó.
The show premiered on January 7, 2025, and quickly gained a loyal following. Viewers were drawn to the couple’s story of resilience and determination. The premiere episode introduced the audience to Luke, Steph, Mia, and Luna, providing a glimpse into their new life in Costa Rica. The show’s engaging content and relatable protagonists made it a hit among HGTV viewers.
Personal Milestones
Luke and Steph’s wedding plans were significantly impacted by the pandemic. Originally set to marry in Mexico in November 2020, their plans were canceled due to travel restrictions and safety concerns. Undeterred, the couple decided to postpone their wedding and focus on their move to Costa Rica. They believed that once settled, they could create a unique and meaningful wedding experience in their new home.
Once in Costa Rica, Luke and Steph planned a beautiful beach ceremony to celebrate their love and new beginning. The wedding was a simple yet elegant affair, with the pristine sands and turquoise waters providing a stunning backdrop. Their daughters, Mia and Luna, served as flower girls, adding a personal touch to the ceremony. The involvement of their extended family, who traveled from Canada, made the event even more special.
Entrepreneurial Ventures
Luke and Steph’s entrepreneurial spirit did not stop at the hotel. They envisioned opening a restaurant that showcased Steph’s culinary skills and their love for Asian street food. In January 2025, they launched “The Tuk Shop,” a restaurant inspired by the vibrant flavors of Asia. The menu featured a variety of dishes, including Steph’s famous cheeseburger dumplings, which quickly became a crowd favorite. Steph’s cheeseburger dumplings were a unique fusion of Western and Asian cuisine.
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