Costa Rica tempts couples with the perfect backdrop for a memorable wedding

Exchange vows in an enchanting woodland locale. One of the country's most famous parks, Manuel Antonio, has dense rainforest vegetation that spills onto immaculate surrounding beaches—offering a refreshing milieu to the lush maze of the rainforest. A perfect spot for a timeless ceremony, Manuel Antonio offers many dreamy opportunities for your big day. Take inspiration from Mother Nature and commit to your soulmate under an elegant altar made of unique orchids not seen anywhere else in the world. Afterwards, host a luxe rustic outdoor reception under the stars. In addition, couples and their guests get access to the park's scenic trails, bubbling volcanic mud pools and more. Beyond the main event, itineraries can include a multitude of outdoor activities for the wedding party, which will not only make your festivities interactive, but also provide you and your invitees with a truly remarkable shared experience that will stay with you forever.

Say 'I do' with sand between your toes. Couples in search of an epic beach site for their special day will find themselves and their guests captivated by Costa Rica's seaside splendor. With close to 900 miles (1,500 kilometers) of immaculate coastline, Costa Rica is home to a stunning selection of world-renowned beaches. The combination of breathtaking white-sand, sweeping mountain views and an ideal tropical climate makes Guanacaste one of Costa Rica's most popular regions. Located in the northwestern corner of Costa Rica, the region presents a diverse geography and stunning sunset views. The neighboring beach towns offer a wide variety of water sports, excursions and restaurant options—plenty of activities for visitors to enjoy pre and post nuptial celebrations. Beyond the wedding day, couples and guests can kick-off festivities with a fun surf lesson, enjoy a rehearsal dinner on a catamaran tour and bond while discovering the craters of an active volcano at Rincón de la Vieja National Park.

Begin your journey off the beaten path. Also on the Pacific coast is the Papagayo Peninsula—almost 5,000 acres of remarkable land that includes tropical dry forests and several untouched beaches, which are perfect for glamping with your wedding crew. Tie the knot in a distinctive fashion. Lavish tents that hold up to fifteen guests and include many luxury amenities are available at very reasonable rates year-round.

Go green beyond the greenery. Costa Rica is a leader in sustainable tourism and established the Certification for Sustainable Tourism (CST) to protect and preserve its natural resources. Newlyweds, who want to draw from the Pura Vida vibe, can incorporate the nature theme further by choosing CST-certified venues, working with local planning experts and accepting donations on behalf of a local organization—in lieu of wedding gifts.

Hottest new wedding trend: shared cultural experiences. Destination weddings are an exceptional way for couples to ensure their special day is inimitable. In the idyllic Costa Rica, loved ones can truly unplug and connect with nature and one another. With a variety of adventure, culinary and cultural activities, Costa Rica provides plenty for wedding parties to experience something new and delightful together. Whether your group is participating in a pre-ceremony yoga class, visiting an art museum or zip lining through the trees post-reception, Costa Rica is a distinct destination with something to please everyone.

If your dream is to take a page out of nature and get hitched in the wild, Costa Rica's varied outdoor possibilities will give you the charming wedding you've always wanted.

For more information on Costa Rica, visit www.visitcostarica.com

About Costa Rica
Nestled between Nicaragua and Panama, Costa Rica offers visitors an abundance of unique wildlife, landscapes and climates -- meaning a trip to this Central American country is anything but run-of-the-mill. The country proudly shelters approximately five percent of the known biodiversity in the world and has become a global leader in sustainable practices. Visitors to Costa Rica enjoy a highly organized tourism infrastructure offering a broad terrain of activities and accommodations.

About Instituto Costarricense de Turismo (ICT)
Established in 1955, the Costa Rica Tourism Board (the ICT), alongside its partners in the private sector, spearheads the vital task of regulating and promoting Costa Rica's extensive tourism offerings.

SOURCE Costa Rica Tourism Board