Coman Sandiego Travel

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  • Why we got married in Playa Flamingo, Costa Rica

    Beach Wedding with Live Music, Catered Reception, DJ under the Stars

    Some places don’t just leave an impression, they stay with you. For us, Playa Flamingo was one of those from the start.

    We ended up there by chance in 2024. We were staying in Tamarindo at first, but it felt a little busier than what we wanted. So we packed up, drove without much of a plan, and found ourselves in Playa Flamingo. It was quieter, more relaxed, and the beach was easily one of the most beautiful we’d seen. Something about it just clicked. At the time, it was just another stop, but it didn’t feel like one.

    When we got engaged, the decision was immediate. There wasn’t another place we even considered, we already knew.

    We chose Margaritaville Beach Resort Playa Flamingo as our home base, and it ended up being exactly what we needed. They offered both all-inclusive and non-all-inclusive options, which gave everyone flexibility and made planning easier for our group. The location couldn’t have been better, right on the beach with a large pool and that laid-back Costa Rica energy that makes everything feel simple and effortless.

    The wedding itself felt like something out of a dream. We had 53 of our closest friends and family there, and everything came together just before sunset on the beach. The light, the ocean, the energy all felt surreal. We were upgraded to the presidential suite, which made the experience even more special, giving us a space where everyone could gather after the DJ wrapped up and keep the night going together.

    The details were exactly what we wanted without feeling overdone. A buffet-style dinner with incredible steak and fresh fish, a beautiful cake, live music during the ceremony, and then a DJ who carried the energy through the rest of the night. The toasts were unforgettable, given by a close friend of Brian’s and my daughters, and one of the most meaningful moments was standing there with our four kids by our side. It wasn’t just a wedding, it felt like everything in our lives coming together in one place.

    One of the highlights leading up to it was our night-before dinner at Amigos Tacos y Beer. The owners handled everything seamlessly, and the whole night was exactly what we wanted, fun, relaxed, full of great food, plenty of margaritas, and even better company. In between everything, we would wander down to the beach and usually end up at Coco Loco, one of our favorite casual spots with some of the best drinks we found in Costa Rica.

    What stood out most was how easy everything felt. The wedding coordinator at Margaritaville Beach Resort Playa Flamingo handled every detail seamlessly, which meant we could actually be present and enjoy it all instead of worrying about logistics. There was no stress, no chaos, just moments we got to fully take in.

    Even now, people still talk about it, not just the wedding, but the entire experience. The setting, the energy, the people, and that balance of celebration, love, and relaxation all came together in a way that felt natural and unforgettable.

    We didn’t go on that first trip expecting to find our wedding destination, but somehow Playa Flamingo had already chosen us. If you’re thinking about doing something similar, we’d love to help you create it. Coman Sandiego Travel can guide you to the right destination and make the entire process feel just as easy.

  • Carry-on-Only Travel

    Travel is a whole lot smoother when your luggage works with you instead of making things harder. After plenty of trial and error, we’ve finally found a system that makes carry-on-only travel feel effortless: Briggs & Riley roller bags, a smart under-seat bag, and vacuum seal packing that completely change the game.

    Let’s start with the obvious, quality matters. Briggs & Riley isn’t just another luggage brand, it’s the kind of investment that pays off every single trip. The carry-on rollers move effortlessly, even when you’re rushing through an airport, the handles feel solid, and everything is designed with intention. You’re not dealing with stuck wheels, broken zippers, or awkward compartments, you’re just moving. And when you travel often, that difference adds up fast.

    What really makes these bags stand out is how much they hold without looking oversized. That’s where our system comes in. Pairing these carry-ons with vacuum seal travel bags has completely changed how we pack. We’re fitting multiple outfits, layers, and everything we actually want to bring into a fraction of the space. Bulky items like sweaters and shoes are no issue. Seal it, remove the air with a portable vacuum, and suddenly your carry-on feels twice the size.

    The under-seat bag is another key part of the system and honestly doesn’t get enough credit. Instead of stuffing everything into one suitcase, we use a structured personal bag that fits under the seat but holds all the essentials like electronics, chargers, snacks, a book, and my Rife generator that comes everywhere with me. It keeps everything organized and eliminates the need to dig through your suitcase mid-flight.

    The biggest benefit isn’t just saving space, it’s the freedom that comes with it. No checked bags means no waiting at baggage claim, no worrying about lost luggage, and no packing things you never end up using. You move faster, lighter, and with way more flexibility. Last-minute trips are simple, tight connections feel manageable, and changing plans on the go is no big deal. I’m still waiting for the day we have a layover and just decide not to get on the next flight.

    There’s also something satisfying about having a system that works. Packing becomes quicker, more intentional, and honestly kind of enjoyable. You know exactly what fits, where it goes, and how to use every bit of space. What used to feel like a chore becomes part of the process.

    At this point, we don’t even think twice about it. Briggs & Riley paired with vacuum seal bags means we bring everything we need and nothing we don’t. It’s simple, efficient, and makes every trip feel easier. And the personalized initials on the bags are a nice touch too.

    Here’s what I packed for the Bahamas:

    Roller bag ✔️
    1 pair of leggings • 2 swimsuits • 3 coverups • 3 skirts • 8 shirts (definitely more than I needed) • 2 sweaters • 2 pajamas • 4 shorts • 2 dresses • 7 pairs of underwear • 4 pairs of socks • 1 pair of tennis shoes switched out for my new OluKai water and tennis shoes • 2 pairs of flip flops • makeup, brushes, curling iron, and a travel steamer

    Carry-on #2 ✔️
    Rife generator with charger cords, TENS pads, remote, and booster • computer • book • snacks • fanny pack • purse

    Who says you can’t overpack in a carry-on 😌✨

    Affiliate link to vacuum travel bags.

  • Exuma, The Bahamas

    If you’re the kind of traveler who needs everything planned months in advance, this was not that kind of trip. This came together last minute after an invite from friends, and somehow that spontaneity made it even better. Within days, we went from “maybe” to wheels up, landing in one of the most beautiful places we’ve ever seen. And yes, the airport is tiny. Blink and you’re through it. But that’s part of the charm. You’re not here for luxury terminals, you’re here for what’s waiting outside in Exuma.

    The water in Exuma doesn’t look real. It’s that impossibly clear, glowing turquoise that shifts shades and sparkles depending on the light, like someone turned the saturation all the way up. Every beach feels untouched, every view like something you’re stepping into rather than just looking at.

    For the first half, we stayed at Hideaways at Palm Bay, and it made everything feel easy without taking away from the island experience. We were in a VRBO within the property, so we didn’t have access to the pool, but with the ocean steps away, it didn’t matter at all. Having a beachfront base close to everything made it simple to move between beach time, exploring, and meals without overthinking it.

    One of the highlights of the trip was Chat ‘N’ Chill on Stocking Island. Getting there is part of the experience, a quick boat taxi ride across that unreal water, leaving from Exuma Yacht Club. While waiting in line, I randomly heard my name and turned around to see a high school friend I hadn’t seen in years, one of those moments that makes the world feel even smaller. Once you arrive, it’s truly island vibes. Boats anchored just offshore, people barefoot in the sand, a volleyball game going on… Time disappears without you realizing it. You grab a drink, let the kids run, check out the gift shop, eat fresh conch salad, and even hop in the water with stingrays. It’s one of those places you don’t rush through.

    If you want something a little more polished, Coconut Club offers a more elevated beach day. It’s great for families with inflatable water toys for the kids, good food, cabanas to rent, and plenty of space to settle in and stay awhile.

    On another day, we explored Exuma Point Beach during low tide, and the shoreline felt endless. It had that salt flat feeling, where water and sand blur together and you can walk out forever. We also spent time at Jolly Hall Beach, which had a completely different energy. Quiet, calm, barely anyone around, and perfect for an easy beach day, especially with a Waboba in hand.

    Food in Exuma is its own experience. Grocery stores are limited. You will find produce, dairy, and plenty of packaged foods, but not always what you’re used to. We went to multiple stores before tracking down basics like popcorn kernels, coconut oil, and butter, which are staples for us no matter where we are.

    Restaurants were good but definitely on the pricier side. Splash Bar & Grill is an easygoing, on-the-water spot with that classic island feel. Tim’s on the Bay delivered great views, rum punch, and a fish sandwich that hit perfectly. Blu on the Water Restaurant & Bar felt a bit more elevated, especially if you grab one of the cabana tables, and Augusta Bay Restaurant brought that relaxed, welcoming look-out-at-the-ocean dining vibe. One thing to remember, you are on island time. Nothing is rushed, and the sooner you lean into that, the better.

    The second half of our stay deserves its own moment. Our friends booked an incredible compound with a pool and a truly private beach. Mornings were slow with coffee and ocean views, days were filled with kids running, sand everywhere, kayaking adventures that didn’t always go as planned, and zero sense of urgency. Nights turned into group dinners, dancing, laughing, and those kinds of moments that only happen when everyone is fully unplugged. One night we even had a private chef, which made it feel even more special. It wasn’t just a place to stay, it became part of the experience.

    One thing no one really talks about, but you will notice, is the no see ums. These tiny biting flies somehow always find you, and depending on the time of day, they can be relentless. The only thing that consistently worked for us was baby oil, and not just a light layer. You really have to really apply it. It sounds simple, but it made a huge difference.

    Getting around Exuma is its own adventure. The roads are a mix of smooth stretches and rough patches, so you never quite know what you’re going to get. Driving on the left side keeps you and your passenger paying attention at all times. It’s manageable, but definitely adds a little excitement. Gas stations are limited, and filling up can take more effort than expected, so it’s something you want to plan ahead.

    That’s Exuma. It’s not polished or overly convenient, and that’s exactly why it feels so special. It slows you down, makes you adjust, and pulls you into the moment. In return, you get water clearer than you imagined, beaches that feel like your own, and memories that come from the unplanned parts of the trip.

    We didn’t overthink this one. We said yes, showed up, and let it happen, grateful for good friends and beautiful scenery.

    Definitely do: visit Stocking Island by boat or water taxi
    Definitely don’t: visit Exuma Point Beach at low tide