of light & flight

the destination

Guanacaste, Costa Rica

We always knew we’d have a destination wedding. Coming from two different cultures and having built the foundation of our relationship doing long distance, travelling and falling in love amidst new adventures, it always seemed the most fitting for us. Over the last seven years, we travelled to over 26 countries, each place embedding itself into a special part of our hearts. How could we possibly pick one to be the wedding location? We couldn’t. In the end, it made the most sense to simply add a new, beautiful place and culture to our story.

We decided to go somewhere we had never been before and to take those we love with us. First and foremost, we prioritised a trip that our families could enjoy and relax on; our families who came from two different cultures, lived on two different continents, and who rarely had the opportunity to be together on the same one. Both had played a huge role in our relationship. It was with their trust, support and advice that we were able to conquer the first years of long distance, an international move, a major accident and recovery, and the building of the beautiful life we have together, now. All of which involved major sacrifices and contributions on their behalves.

From there we started narrowing down what we wanted to share with our families- adventure, hiking, jungle, beach, romance, a new culture, relaxation, the list went on. One place seemed to stand out as soon as we came across a specific villa, sitting atop a hillside, ambushed by jungle, and looking out to the ocean. Costa Rica.

With the unexpected halt of life due to Corona and with all of our families growing, we are more aware than ever what a unique opportunity a destination wedding is. It won’t be easy and we are all taking a risk making it happen. For that, we appreciate everyone’s support and efforts in helping making it a reality and understand that unexpected changes may arise. We hope that it can act as a vacation and memorable time with family for all involved and that we will see a positive movement in the health of the world as the date approaches.

The Guanacaste region is located on the pacific coast of Costa Rica. Known for it’s dry tropical forests, national parks, white sand beaches, and turquoise blue waters it seemed to have the perfect mix of the culture and authenticity we wanted while also allowing for the true vacation vibes. Research led us to the popular destination of Tamarindo. Located in the dry rainforest, it’s short rainy seasons would bring all sorts of tropical greens and the opportunity to see native animals, such as monkeys and sloths, while still allowing for plenty of moments of dry, tropical weather. With national parks near by and an endless choice of beaches to choose from, Tamarindo left no room for boredom; snorkeling, surfing, diving, kayaking, hiking, jungle trekking, zip ling- there was something for everyone.

The wedding will take place during green season which yes, is also referred to as the rainy season. However, before you get too nervous, we were reassured that the rainiest part of the season kicks off mostly in mid to late September and October, with August actually being one of the best months to be there. While it’s best to pack for some occasional quick, light showers, it should be mostly dry and the most beautiful time to be there with the rainforest lush and the animals out to see. Coming from Amsterdam and Portland- rain shouldn’t be a shock for either families ;)

Travel Information

Liberia International Airport is the closest airport to Tamarindo, the location of the villa and wedding.

For family coming from the US, most flights from Portland and San Francisco to Liberia International Airport will require a stop over. There are no direct flights from PDX or SFO, unfortunately (as of research circa 2021). There are direct flights to San Jose International Airport. It is always possible to drive or fly from Liberia if you’d like to go early and make a trip of it, as well.

Family flying out of Amsterdam will have the option to fly KLM directly into Liberia International Airport or San Jose International airport. You can fly to San Jose International airport and drive for a slightly cheaper price.

Flights may have changed in recent months/year due to Corona so it may be best to look into this a bit further.