A new episode of The Real Poker Girls of Las Vegas podcast is now live (Costa Rica Poker Festival 2026) — and it arrives at a moment when women’s poker is experiencing real, measurable momentum.

Hosted by Lupe Soto,  Tatiana Fox, and Rebbecca Scales, the episode reflects on an unprecedented year for women in poker and looks ahead to what January 2026 in Costa Rica represents — not just as a destination, but as a signal of how far women’s events have come globally.

For Women Poker News readers, this episode offers more than a travel preview. It’s a candid, behind-the-scenes conversation about growth, access, safety, and why international poker festivals are finally beginning to meet women players where they are.

A Year That Changed the Landscape

Early in the episode, the hosts reflect on how dramatically the women’s poker calendar expanded over the past year. Where women once had to fight for inclusion, operators are now building women’s events directly into festival schedules — a shift that didn’t happen overnight.

Lupe Soto, founder of LIPS (Ladies International Poker Series), speaks to how women’s championships are no longer treated as side events, but as integral parts of major poker series. That evolution is especially visible in Costa Rica, where the LIPS Costa Rica Women’s Championship will take place during the 2026 Costa Rica Poker Festival.

The conversation underscores a key theme: progress happens when women show up — and keep showing up.

Why Costa Rica Matters

Costa Rica has quietly become one of the most welcoming international stops for women poker players, and the podcast breaks down why.

The hosts discuss:

  • Why San José is an accessible and comfortable entry point for international travel

  • How tournament schedules that start later in the day allow players to explore without sacrificing poker

  • Why Costa Rica’s hospitality culture makes a difference for solo travelers

  • The importance of language access, trusted transportation, and group support

Rather than glossing over concerns, the episode addresses them directly — making it especially valuable for women considering their first poker trip outside the U.S.

More Than a Tournament Stop

One of the episode’s strongest takeaways is that poker travel doesn’t have to be isolating or intimidating.

The hosts also touch on the fact that The Real Poker Girls will be traveling to Costa Rica together and offering optional group adventures alongside the festival, creating an ultimate destination poker experience — one that blends competitive play with curated cultural excursions and community. While the podcast doesn’t dive into full details, listeners are encouraged to explore more about those plans separately at

 https://therealpokergirls.com/travel

A Conversation Worth Hearing

This episode isn’t just about Costa Rica — it’s about where women’s poker is heading next.

Listeners will hear:

  • Honest reflections on how women’s events are evolving

  • Insight into international poker travel from experienced hosts

  • Why Costa Rica 2026 feels like a turning point

  • How the community continues to drive progress in the game

For Women Poker News readers following the global women’s poker movement, this episode offers context, clarity, and a reminder that visibility matters.

Listen Now

🎙 The Real Poker Girls of Las Vegas (Costa Rica Poker Festival 2026)   — New Episode Out Now

Whether you’re already planning your 2026 schedule or simply tracking the growth of women’s poker worldwide, this episode is a timely and insightful listen.

Costa Rica 2026 isn’t just another stop — it’s part of a bigger story.