Costa Rica :: Love in the Surf & Sand It has been some time since I posted, but have been holding back, saving the best for the last of summer. Well, depending where you are, even though Labor Day has come and gone. The inspiration came from my travels to Central America. Costa Rica, the happiest and healthiest country on earth, which is why many choose it for special celebrations, retreats and destination weddings. The four seasons in the US are predominant and vary by region. Costa Rica, however, really has two seasons (dry – on and rainy – off) but in the small town of Santa Teresa, the busy season is now all year long. Once a sleepy fishing village, in a remote part of the Nicoya Peninsula, this town is now renowned for surfing, great chefs, hiking, massage (Stefano is a must!), restaurants, yoga, boot camp (I love Jill Payne’s PowerPayneFitness) and charming boutique hotels. The energy and spirituality levels are quite powerful, being so close to the equator. It was discovered in the 1990’s by tourists and the rest is history. This was my fifth trip down in four years and consider the village a second home. In Santa Teresa and now other towns in Costa Rica, there are friends that I pick up with where I left off and always new friends to be had. Full of expats from around the world, who live and visit there, the vibe is international, creative and hip, while still very laid back, with a definite community. From the well-traveled, to surfers to backpackers, there is a place for everybody. Most importantly, the local Ticos who create a special environment. Celebrities and high-profile people often visit, as the privacy by locals and visitors alike, is respected. Regulars include Matt Damon, Diane Lane, Mel Gibson and Gisele Bündchen who owns a house on Playa Hermosa, the location of her wedding with Tom Brady. I’d say the people of Santa Teresa are, well, larger than life, which is a good thing, if you can handle it. With 30+ hotels, not including in the nearby town of Mal Pais, as well as fabulous rental homes, it is the ideal place to have a wedding. Your guests, nonetheless, must be ready for a transportation adventure. Read more about some of the people and picks I have chosen to feature, a recipe from Jim Kelly of Soma Chefs, decor from Courtney White-Mellon of Simply Rustic and my own cocktail idea for a “make your own Mojito bar.” Should you wish to plan a special event or wedding in Santa Teresa, I’d be happy to be your guide. Navigation definitely requires one who is in the know and knows the right people. Pura Vida~