Get a first look at Bachelor in Paradise season 10's chic new Costa Rica digs

Dating is hard. Dating in the heat of summer on a beach that’s often overrun with crabs is even harder — but for nine seasons, contestants on Bachelor in Paradise did it anyway.

This year, however, Paradise is getting an upgrade.

Entertainment Weekly has an exclusive first look at Bachelor in Paradise’s new summer home, the Azura Beach Resort in Costa Rica, and from what we can see, there isn’t a rogue crab in sight. And rather than sweating it out in open-air hotel rooms, every contestant will enjoy a room with four walls, air conditioning, and a private pool.

“The hotel is more upscale and has a sexy chicness to it that feels more elevated than the traditional kind of Paradise world that we've been in,” explains new showrunner Scott Teti (Claim to Fame, Summer House). “The cast can literally open the doors to their rooms and swim out into the pool under bridges, and then up to a beautiful bar that is touching the beach. It has amazing views. The beach itself is private and unique. There's a beautiful island right off it with a bunch of fishing boats that surround it every day, with a quaint little town right next door, but not a ton of foot traffic. It feels remote and upscale and sexy at the same time.”

Season 10 contestants — including some single seniors from the Golden franchise — will each be paired with a roommate, though EW can confirm that they won’t have to sleep in bunk beds. Teti reveals that a special “VIP Suite” will also be available to contestants “on certain occasions,” should they want to get some “alone” time with a potential love interest. “The VIP suite is a two-story private getaway with an amazing setup that exudes Paradise,” he says. “It's got a private pool on the top floor and a jacuzzi on the second floor with a full-on kitchen. It's got huge balconies and elite views.” In other words, rose lovers, imagine the “boom-boom room” of old, but a lot nicer.

'Bachelor in Paradise' pot-stirrer Kat Izzo back for season 10
 

During the day, contestants can hit the beach — as you’ll see below, the daybeds have been replaced by more civilized couches and chaise lounges — or visit one of two bars. Paradise bartender Wells Adams will be back offering mixed drinks and advice, while former Bachelorette Hannah Brown will be on hand “handing out champagne before the rose ceremonies, checking in with people, seeing how they're doing,” explains Teti.

So far, six contestants have been announced: Kat Izzo, from Zach's season of The Bachelor; Zoe McGrady, from Grant's season of The Bachelor; Hakeem Moulton and Jonathon Johnson, from Jenn's season of The Bachelorette; Leslie Fihma from The Golden Bachelor; and Gary Levingston from The Golden Bachelorette.

"Everything about the style of the show, we’re trying to elevate," continues Teti. "From new cameras and lenses to frame rates to the way it's shot — we’re trying to implement an upgraded, sexy style across the board."

Upgraded, sexy, and comfortable, that is. With men and women from The Golden Bachelor and Golden Bachelorette on hand this season, producers are creating an environment where the seniors can stay cool and sunstroke-free while looking for a love connection. "We're going to make sure that they have their perfect Paradise to keep them rested and hydrated," says Teti. "There's plenty of shade and comfortable water temperatures to be had."

Teti is staying tight-lipped about how the Golden cast members will be integrated into Paradise. Still, when asked if producers would allow a love connection between a Golden single and a younger contestant, the showrunner doesn't shut it down. "I would say that this season is designed to encourage [people] to stay within their lanes," he notes. "But yes, anything can happen in Paradise."

Bachelor in Paradise season 10 premieres Monday, July 7, on ABC.