What to expect when you first get there?
When you land, there will be vans waiting to pick you up from the airport where they will then take everyone to the nearby Walmart. This is your opportunity to stock up on things you have forgotten/need, snacks, and one or two meals that you will most likely have at your Airbnb outside of the planned meals. This will be the only time planned to go to a big grocery store, otherwise the stores in our little town are closer to mini mart items. Once everyone has gotten their groceries, the vans will then take you to your designated Airbnb, it is about a 90 minute car drive from the airport to the gated community everyone is staying in.
What should I bring?
While how much or how little you do on the trip is very much up to you, it is worth noting that Costa Rica will officially be in their "wet season" so any outdoor activities may be subject to rain, however, it usually comes and goes quickly and will still be summer temperatures. For the wedding, we are asking everyone to wear black. On the invitation we stated for it to be formal and while we don't mean for it to be a black tie event, we would like everyone to show us their best black outfits! If you are wanting to participate in any of the adventures, planned or your own, then some good outdoor clothes are recommended as well.
What are the planned activities?
On Sunday night, David Webster is hosting a welcome dinner, it will be at the main house/venue, transportation will be provided from Vista Del Lagos.
There are various adventures that Costa Rica has to offer and it's solely up to each individual on whether they'd like to participate! We are planning at least 2-3 adventures for the week. Monday and Tuesday will consist of two waterfal hikes, both are rated as moderately strenuous, so sturdy hiking shoes are recommended. We will be having the rehearsal dinner on Tuesday, which everyone is invited too, transportation will be provided. Wednesday is the WEDDING!! Thursday we will be hopping on a boat that will take us to some hot springs at a resort called The Springs. Once there, we can do some white water tubing and dine at a restaurant to relax and recover.
What to expect for transportation?
We will have vans on standby to be used when we move in big groups. However, if you'd like to rent your own car, there are two options. First, you may rent a car a from the airport, however the downsides to this are the long drive to housing, it's very expensive, and the roads at night can be treacherous in some areas. The second option is rent directly from our Airbnb host. We are still finalizing the process but if you'd like to rent a car from the host, please let us know. We will also have a designated "transportation coordinator" and we will provide her contact information to you before you arrive.
Do we have a registry?
Nope! Instead, we are asking people to donate to a Costa Rican charity. We have listed some of our favorites below! Copy and paste the links into your browser to find out more about each charity!
- Territorio de Zaguates (Land of the Strays): This is a dog sanctuary that does not believe in euthanasia as a solution to the problem of abandoned dogs in Costa Rica. They are a temporary home for thousands of puppies looking for a second chance, but are also the permanent home of many others who may never find their own family because of their looks, age or special needs and treatment.
Donation link: https://donate.territoriodezaguates.com
- Kids Saving the Rainforest: Located in the heart of Manuel Antonio. This rescue center passionately focuses on the rescue, research, and rehabilitation of iconic species such as sloths, primates, and parrots. They are deeply involved in the creation of wildlife bridges, reforestation projects, and educational initiatives for local children. Their jungle campus is a vibrant learning hub, welcoming students, teachers, and professionals globally to immerse themselves in wildlife at the rescue center and sanctuary.
Donation link: https://www.kidssavingtherainforest.org/?form=DONATE
- The Costa Rican Red Cross: provides emergency assistance and disaster relief and health care, and other services to people in need. They have helped millions of people in Costa Rica and around the world.
Donation link: http://cruzroja.or.cr
- Un Techo para mi País: a charity that works to combat poverty and provide housing for families in need. They have built over 14,000 homes in Costa Rica and have helped countless families improve their lives.
Donation link: https://costarica.techo.org/dona/
- Fundación Ayuda a la Niñez Desamparada: a charity that provides care and support to children who have been abandoned or abused. They operate several homes for children and schools, and other programs.
Donation link: https://dehvi.org/donar-ahora/