About Us
Making a Safe Haven
Rainbow Refuge started out with one couple's desire to build something beautiful in Costa Rica. At the time, they weren't sure what they would build. Melaney and Laurie purchased a gorgeous 4 acre property with a hotel, and let the universe take the wheel. Despite not having a concrete plan, they knew that they wanted to create a place that would help and support others.
It wasn't until late 2024 that Melaney and Laurie came up with a vision. A passionate activist, Laurie saw what was happening in the US and couldn't sit idly by. So, she and Melaney decided it was time to make a difference. They rebranded their hotel as an LGBTQ safe haven for those looking to relocate from the craziness of the US to the Pura Vida of Costa Rica.
Our Story
Providing lodging to LGBTQ folk seemed like a logical step for the couple. But they wanted to do more than that. Every time the couple was active on social media, they noticed an onslaught of questions from those aspiring to relocate to Costa Rica. That's when the real vision came to life.
Mel and Laurie began to offer advice and referrals to those who were interested in LGBTQ immigration. They had their first wave of LGBTQ guests, all of whom were considering the move to CR. While staying at the hotel, the guests bonded over group dinners and stories of both fear and hope. Thanks to Laurie and Mel's assistance, almost all of their guests were able to obtain residency quickly. Several of them even managed to put in offers on houses or rentals.
From there, it snowballed. The hotel is a labor of love fueled on the compassion and kindness, as well as the supportive local LGBTQ community. There's something special about the safe haven - it seems that the universe brings together the right people at the right time. If you don't believe us, book a stay with us and find out for yourself!
Meet The Team
Laurie Barron - Owner
Woven into her careers as a classical musician and psychotherapist, Laurie has always been an activist, from civil rights to LGBTQ rights. The Talmud teaching “Tzedek, tzedek tirdof” (Justice, justice thou shall pursue) has been her guide. Moving to Costa Rica with her wife in 2017, Laurie had a foreboding of what the regime in the US would become, her fears have been realized in spades since the election of 2024. At her core, she's a generous person who just wants to make a better world for others.
Melaney Phillips - Owner
Melaney spent much of her life working hard in rigid roles. From being in the Canadian military to working in finance, Melaney was lived a fast-paced life. But once in Costa Rica, she began to slow down and follow her passions. Helping others is one of those passions. Melaney loves making new connections with the people at the Refuge, and deeply appreciates the magic that surrounds the place. Embracing a positive mindset, Melaney is able to turn the most frustrating situations into a good time.
Dani Hicks - Marketing
Dani was a free spirit in her 20s, but settled down to raise a family with her wife. After the 2024 election, she fled the US to go to Costa Rica and rediscovered her love of travel and adventure. After staying at the Rainbow Refuge, Dani decided she wanted to be part of their mission. She loves helping others achieve their dream of LGBTQ relocation to Costa Rica.