Location, location, location!

It is true that wedding details are important, but one detail that many tend to forget is… What’s next? Do we stay at the hotel after the wedding? Is there anything else to do outside of the resort? What about your guests – will they have the chance to have a vacation as well as attend our wedding? Sure… your family and friends come down to celebrate with you during your special day, but will that be the only highlight of their (and your!) trip? Yep…that’s a lot of questions… but don’t worry, Pura Vida, that’s why im here for.

Of course I can talk to you about our little slice of paradise we like to call Hilton Papagayo (the best resort out there by the way!), but instead, let me talk to you about what's around us. One thing is for sure, whatever time of year you come, take out your cameras, because Costa Rica is definitely Facebook worthy!

Between December and April, it is very rare for even a drop rain to fall in the area; therefore it’s commonly called the Gold Season. The rain starts creeping back in at the beginning of May, up to mid November, which is considered the Green Season. I have never seen a place that rain (yes, that weather that normally makes you want to stay in all day) brings smiles to everyone’s faces; this is because the area turns into a place that even locals feel that they have seen for the very first time. Lush and green, this incredible scenery is everything that you dreamed that Costa Rica would be.  These short afternoon showers, in no way stop guests from hitting the zip lines, white water rafting trips, atv tours, and even mud baths!  The Gold Season starts at the beginning of November, which is also great for many outdoor activities…like tanning of course! There is never a month that I would tell you “DON’T COME!” Rain or shine, Costa Rica looks beautiful, and I have no doubt that is magical place will surely surprise you.

Amazing highlights of the country can be experienced on tours such as white water rafting in Rio Tenorio, swimming in the majestic Rio Celeste, Cortes Waterfalls , Palo Verde National Park, Volcano Rincon de La Vieja, and Zip Lining at Congo Trail, are just some of the nearby activities that you can also enjoy. Reservations can easily be done on property, so don’t worry, PURA VIDA, everything is right here for you.

And if you prefer to venture out, rent a car with GPS (we have Alamo on site). Costa Rica is quite safe. I’m not saying to go dress like Mr. T. from the ATeam, rent a Benz and sick out your arm out the window with the next iPhone, but once you avoid actions such as these, you will get the opportunity to enjoy yourself. Remember, as the Ticos say…. Pura Vida.

Close to Hilton Papagayo (7 min), you can find a beach town called Playa Hermosa, where you can hang with the locals, enjoy local dishes such as a Cevichito or Arroz con Camarones. I won’t translate, I will let you Google that!  

You can also visit Playa del Coco (10 min) from the hotel, where you can find great nightlife. It’s a fun little beach town with restaurants, bars, and souvenir shops.

You can explore Liberia, 25 minutes from the hotel. This is quite a large town (or small city) which is commonly called the heart of Guanacaste. Catholic Churches, Parks, Restaurants, Movie theaters, Universities, among others are found in this area...and for those who are not as adventurous; there are also fast food options, so you can get your McDonalds fix as well…

Why not take a 1 hour drive to the beautiful beaches of Tamarindo, famous for surfers, fun bars, large variety of restaurants and amazing sunsets.

These are just some suggestions, and believe me, there are many MORE.  So EXPLORE and see what’s in STORE, tell your significant other “don’t be a CHORE”, and do something you have never done BEFORE! 

As you can see, Costa Rica is a lovely destination that satisfies all tastes for you, your significant other, and your guests. Once you arrive, it a place that you will  be talking about for years to come…