Romantic Destination Magazine 2026

Magic lies in the simplethings.

Where Love2026Travels

@carlavascot

"Technology evolves, but connection remains."

Celebration Is Timeless

Living just an hour and a half from the Big Apple has taught me that anything can become a reason to celebrate. I’ve witnessed how, here, every minute is lived with intensity, and distance is never an obstacle. Despite its dizzying pace, there is always room for art, music, food festivals, open‑air concerts, and even the magical winter events.

New York has revealed something essential to me: no matter how far artificial intelligence advances, the search for emotional connection remains

non‑negotiable. For me, celebration is a timeless concept. We did it thousands of years ago, and we continue to do it today—gathering, finding our life partner, our tribe… or whatever we choose to call it.

In this edition, I introduce various voices from the worlds of travel and weddings, each coming from different countries. It is my way of honoring the diversity that defines this vibrant city, while staying rooted in my Hispanic‑American heritage and the magic we have to offer the world.

Carla Vascot

CARLA VASCOT Founder

Since 2017, I have been collaborating with Viajes Bodas y Más, a magazine founded by my friend Carla Paola Vasco Tirado, dedicated to romance travel, honeymoons, destination weddings, and other topics within the travel and wedding industry. My contribution has focused primarily on content editing, but also on the creation of articles.

We celebrate the magazine’s 10th anniversary with a digital edition in which I reflect on the experience, the excitement, and the certainty that love is everywhere.

Julieta Muñoz Editorial Director @amaru_warmi

On the Cover

Groom & Bride: Mislene & Hector

Venue: Casa De Campo, Dominican Republic

Luxury Event Designer: Evaristo De Los Santos

PH:@Boyko.studio

Editorial Director: Julieta Muñoz

Founder & USA Director: Carla Vascot

President: Silvia Zurita

Graphic Editor: Erika Vizuete

Public Relations Ecuador: Loren Solis

WRITERS: Carla Vascot

Julieta Muñoz

Raul Guarderas

PHOTOGRAPHERS: @maison_narcis @erikavizueteph @boyko.studio

ROMANTIC DESTINATION MAGAZINE SPRING 2026 EDITION

Produced and Distributed by: Viajes, Bodas y Mas www.viajesbodasymas.com

VIAJES, BODAS Y MAS USA

Social Media Manager Emily Morejón

Junior Media Content Barbara Benitez

ADVERTISING carlavascot@gmail.com

No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means without the express written permission of the Publisher.

Get inspired and travel

Step into our world and uncover the spark that transforms travel into unforgettable experiences—leading you to the place meant just for you.

www.theseabypalmazul.com

Everywhere L O V E May Be

What is your love language?

It’s one of the most common questions in individual and couples therapy. It helps you recognize how you express love and how you expect to receive it. There are countless forms of love, desires and pleasures: sex, food, music, travel, art, sports and hundreds of other things. And there are many types of love as well—self‑love, romantic love, platonic love, fraternal love, parental love. Some people are happily married, others gloriously single; some adore their pets or their plants, and others have always dreamed of becoming parents. Technology increasingly shapes our lives, even influencing how we search for a partner and what kind of relationship we want.

At the end of 2024, I downloaded a dating app after hearing from a few women who had met their partners there. After confirming that the worst place to meet someone is the gym (no one speaks to you unless you’re using the machine they want), this modern

matchmaking method deserved a chance. Once you’re in the game, you encounter trends like branching (dating several people at once), breadcrumbing (keeping just enough contact to maintain someone’s interest), and the infamous ghosting (the sudden disappearance of someone who seemed interested). I’ve even experienced mutual ghosting, where both people simply forget about each other after sharing a “pleasant” moment. Sometimes it’s just not worth investing more energy. If someone no longer appeals to you, you step away. It should be normal behavior for someone who prioritizes their well‑being. Emotional responsibility also means setting boundaries— physical or emotional—when a relationship isn’t moving forward. It may seem ruthless, but cutting things off early can be healthier. The problem is that we expect an explanation, and not just any explanation, but one we like. Some stories remain unfinished, and ironically, that is their ending.

Then comes the stage of reflection and questioning during the search for Prince Charming (read with a hint of sarcasm and a dose of disbelief). When is the right moment to introduce someone to your family or friends? How soon should you talk about delicate topics like money, religion or children? After how many dates can you take off your underwear? There are all kinds of rules you can follow based on your own convictions— or simply at random, depending on which “proper lady guidelines” reach you first. The latest advice I heard on a podcast is that you shouldn’t go out alone with someone at the beginning; instead, invite them to join your everyday activities: walking your dog in the park, grabbing coffee with friends, having lunch with colleagues, hiking a mountain— whatever you normally do. It makes sense: it’s better for them to see your interests and personality in a relaxed, ordinary setting than in a date where everything is premeditated. It’s logical, yet few of us actually do it. Another interesting trend gaining popularity is “LAT” (Living Apart Together): couples who are

officially together but live separately. I find it amusing that many of them don’t even live alone—they live with roommates, just not with their partners. The modern version of “together but not mixed.”

A recent article in The Economist suggests we are returning to the early 1900s, when people married for money and social mobility. Women, in particular, were expected to find a wealthy husband with businesses, property, high social standing and a good education. Marriage had to be a good deal for both parties. At what point in history did love become the centerpiece of marriage? Curiously, the romantic idea of marriage is losing strength because life has become more expensive. As the saying goes, “when poverty comes in through the door, love goes out the window.” People move in together to share expenses, keep each other company and improve their quality of life. Even “lavender marriages” have become more common—unions between homosexual and heterosexual individuals to

avoid discrimination based on sexual orientation; in other words, marriages of convenience.

At the same time, videos are going viral advising heterosexual men to get married to improve their lives, but not women—because for women, being single is supposedly more advantageous. Being with or caring for a man requires a lot of energy, so the investment doesn’t pay off in the long run, at least when considering holistic benefits (mental health, financial stability, emotional support, family structure). Meanwhile, there is a global loneliness epidemic affecting both men and women, but especially middle‑aged men who struggle to form friendships or romantic relationships. There is an interpersonal disconnection that is intensified by endless digital connectivity. Why is it so hard to connect with another person? Perhaps because we’ve become hypersensitive, and any behavior can be used against you. If you stop replying, you’re inconsiderate. If you’re always attentive, you’re too intense. If someone you don’t like reaches out, they’re a creep; if someone you do like ignores you, they’re an idiot. There will never be a perfect balance between what we expect and what we receive from a partner.

To spice things up, the phrase “women don’t cry anymore, women cash in”—Shakira’s anthem— has become a motto for independent, empowered women, whether they identify as feminists or not. They say women suffer less from loneliness because they have all kinds of support networks: groups for single mothers, art clubs, book clubs, sports groups, business forums and countless platforms where women support other women. Personally, I prefer groups that seek to integrate everyone, regardless of identity, because unity creates strength and diversity builds resilience. Still, I recognize the importance of women‑only spaces, especially because they offer safety, foster (self)confidence and create a sense of belonging. Finding a place where you feel comfortable

Love is waiting for you...

and can share interests and goals is invaluable. For me, the mountains are that place—a space where I can release emotions, good and bad. That’s why I enjoy going out regularly with colleagues who hike or climb.

Then comes introspection. How, when and why should I enjoy my single life? What if I regret not becoming a mother? What do I look for in a partner? Do I want to build a life together or prefer LAT? Would I consider a lavender marriage? How much of my thinking comes from my true self, and how much from social constructs rooted decades ago? Endless thoughts that can go in many directions depending on the mood of the day. The simplest, most practical answer is that you should do what makes you happy right now. Marrying yourself to decisions made at a specific moment, under specific circumstances, and fighting to maintain them at all costs can be harmful. New variables will always appear, forcing you to rethink the equation and inevitably leading to a new result. Draw partial conclusions, refine them based on your accumulated experiences and take the leap. Love is waiting for you everywhere.

...everywhere.

Photography by:

One Fine Bridal Market

New York Bridal Fashion Week

We had the opportunity to attend One Fine Bridal Market during New York Bridal Fashion Week, one of the most influential gatherings for those shaping the pulse of the bridal industry. For the past decade, this event has brought together designers, buyers, and experts from around the world in a space where creativity, craftsmanship, and the future of bridal fashion converge through impeccable curation.

Held every April and October, One Fine Bridal Market has become an essential stop for discovering the collections that will define upcoming seasons—gowns that tell stories, accessories that elevate style, and proposals that anticipate global trends.

Whether you are part of the bridal world or simply passionate about fashion, this is a setting that inspires, connects, and transforms. We invite you to experience it and explore the work of the most distinguished designers from around the globe.

hamadryade-lodge.com

Via Misahualli, 150155 Puerto Misahuallí-Ecuador

Sudamérica guarda ciudades que parecen escritas para el amor: viñedos que suspiran al atardecer, cascos históricos que laten con música propia, montañas que envuelven, playas que brillan con luz dorada. Cada una de estas siete ciudades ofrece un escenario único para vivir el romance en todas sus formas: una escapada en pareja, una luna de miel o incluso una boda íntima.

A continuación, una selección curada de destinos y hoteles que elevan cualquier viaje romántico a una experiencia memorable.

2 4 5

1

Mendoza

2 Romance entre viñedos y montañas

En Mendoza, el amor huele a uva madura y a brisa fresca de la cordillera. Entre Cielos, un hotel boutique inmerso en viñedos infinitos, ofrece suites con vistas abiertas, spa hamam y cenas bajo el cielo mendocino. Un destino perfecto para parejas que buscan calma, vino y paisajes que abrazan. Mas recomendaciones: The Vines Resort & Spa,

4

Cuenca

Historia, arte y encanto colonial

Cuenca enamora con su arquitectura patrimonial, su aire bohe mio y su ritmo pausado. Entre sus múltiples opciones, destaca Itza Hotel Boutique, Hotel Victoria, Hotel Oro Verde Cuenca. Un destino para parejas que disfrutan del arte, la cultura y los paseos románticos por calles empedradas.

Cartagena

Noches cálidas frente al mar

Cartagena es color, historia y sensualidad caribeña. En el corazón amurallado, Casa Pestagua —una joya colonial restaurada con elegancia— combina patios silenciosos, balcones floridos y un servicio impecable. Ideal para parejas que sueñan con romance tropical, arquitectura histórica y atardeceres frente al mar.

3

Quindío

Amor entre cafetales y naturaleza viva

El Quindío es un susurro verde: montañas suaves, aroma a café recién tostado y paisajes que invitan a detener el tiempo.

Puedes destacar Hacienda Bambusa, un refugio íntimo rodeado de naturaleza exuberante, perfecto para parejas que buscan conexión, tranquilidad y experiencias auténticas en el corazón del Eje Cafetero.

5

Punta del Este

Sofisticación junto al océano

Punta del Este combina glamour, playas infinitas y una energía vibrante que enamora en cualquier época del año. En medio de este escenario, L’Auberge se alza como un ícono de elegancia: una casona rodeada de jardines, con su emblemática torre y un ambiente que mezcla tradición, calidez y estilo europeo. Sus habitaciones íntimas, su servicio impecable y su atmósfera romántica lo convierten en el refugio ideal para parejas que buscan lujo relajado, tardes frente al mar y noches llenas de encanto.

Baños de Agua Santa

Aventura y bienestar en la montaña

Baños es naturaleza pura: cascadas, termas, montañas y adrenalina. Luna Volcán, con su ubicación privilegiada sobre la ciudad, ofrece vistas panorámicas, piscinas termales y suites románticas. Ideal para parejas que desean combinar aventura, bienestar y momentos íntimos en un entorno mágico.

Buenos Aires

Pasión urbana y elegancia

cultural

La capital argentina vibra con tango, arte y una vida cultural inagotable. Legado Mítico, un hotel boutique en Palermo, mezcla diseño, historia y sofisticación porteña. Un refugio perfecto para parejas que buscan romance urbano, gastronomía excepcional y noches llenas de energía. Nuestras recomendaciones son:Faena Buenos Aires, Palladio Hotel MGallery Buenos Aires, Legado Mitico Hotel Buenos Aires, Casa Lucia Buenos Aires.

Al final, cada uno de estos destinos guarda una forma distinta de encender el romance: entre viñedos silenciosos, calles coloniales que cuentan historias, montañas que envuelven, playas que brillan y ciudades que laten con energía propia.

Sudamérica sigue siendo un continente donde el amor se vive sin prisa, con intensidad y con una belleza que sorprende en cada esquina.

Solo hace falta elegir el lugar que más resuene con su historia y dejar que el viaje haga el resto.

7

South American Cities for an Enviable Romance:

South America is home to cities that feel as if they were written for love: vineyards that sigh at sunset, historic quarters that pulse with their own music, mountains that embrace, and beaches that glow with golden light. Each of these seven cities offers a unique setting to experience romance in all its forms—whether it’s a couple’s escape, a honeymoon, or an intimate wedding.

Below, a curated selection of destinations and hotels that elevate any romantic journey into a memorable experience.

1 | Mendoza – Romance Among Vineyards and Mountains

In Mendoza, love smells like ripe grapes and fresh mountain breeze. Entre Cielos, a boutique hotel surrounded by endless vineyards, offers open‑view suites, a traditional hamam spa, and dinners under the Mendocino sky. A perfect destination for couples seeking calm, wine, and landscapes that embrace. More recommendations: The Vines Resort & Spa.

2 | Cartagena – Warm Nights by the Sea

Cartagena is color, history, and Caribbean sensuality. In the heart of the walled city, Casa Pestagua—a beautifully restored colonial gem—combines quiet courtyards, flowered balconies, and impeccable service. Ideal for couples dreaming of tropical romance, historic architecture, and sunsets over the sea.

3 | Quindío – Love Among Coffee Fields and Living Nature

Quindío is a green whisper: soft mountains, the aroma of freshly roasted coffee, and landscapes that invite you to slow down. Hacienda Bambusa stands out as an intimate retreat surrounded by lush nature—perfect for couples seeking connection, tranquility, and authentic experiences in the heart of Colombia’s Coffee Region.

4 | Cuenca – History, Art, and Colonial Charm

Cuenca enchants with its heritage architecture, bohemian spirit, and unhurried rhythm. Among its many options, Itza Hotel Boutique, Hotel Victoria, and Hotel Oro Verde Cuenca stand out for their character, comfort, and sense of place. A destination for couples who enjoy art, culture, and romantic walks along cobblestone streets.

5 | Punta del Este – Sophistication by the Ocean

Punta del Este blends glamour, endless beaches, and a vibrant energy that captivates year‑round. In this setting, L’Auberge rises as an icon of elegance: a manor surrounded by gardens, with its emblematic tower and a warm, European‑inspired atmosphere. Its intimate rooms, impeccable service, and romantic ambiance make it the ideal refuge for couples seeking relaxed luxury, seaside afternoons, and enchanting nights.

6 | Baños de Agua Santa – Adventure and Wellness in the Mountains

Baños is pure nature: waterfalls, hot springs, mountains, and adrenaline. Luna Volcán, perched above the city, offers panoramic views, thermal pools, and romantic suites. Perfect for couples who want to blend adventure, wellness, and intimate moments in a magical setting.

7 | Buenos Aires – Urban Passion and Cultural Elegance

Argentina’s capital vibrates with tango, art, and an endless cultural life. Legado Mítico, a boutique hotel in Palermo, blends design, history, and porteño sophistication. A perfect refuge for couples seeking urban romance, exceptional gastronomy, and nights full of energy.

Our recommendations: Faena Buenos Aires, Palladio Hotel MGallery, Legado Mítico Buenos Aires, Casa Lucía Buenos Aires.

In the end, each of these destinations holds its own way of igniting romance: among quiet vineyards, colonial streets that tell stories, mountains that embrace, shimmering beaches, and cities that pulse with life. South America remains a continent where love unfolds slowly, intensely, and with a beauty that surprises at every turn. All that’s left is to choose the place that resonates most with your story—and let the journey take care of the rest.Boutique, Hotel Victoria, and Hotel Oro Verde Cuenca stand out for their character, comfort, and sense of place. A destination for couples who enjoy art, culture, and romantic walks along cobblestone streets.

The date is at

Sunday, April 21, 2024, in the city of Buenos Aires. The date is at Aramburu, at 21h30.

Written

Good stories always have a date, place and high expectations, you will remember that moment, the atmosphere and the company. Everything is complemented by the senses, magic happens.

That night we arrived punctually to the invitation of Alicia Repetto and Casa Chameleon, members of Relais & Châteaux of Central and South America, to celebrate an intimate dinner at Aramburu, a successful concept of haute cuisine located in the neighborhood of La Recoleta.

A well placed kitchen where there was a lot of movement. The lighting is something that stood out in the place. The menu brought a great and unexpected surprise with each dish. The welcome menu of wild herbs and seasonal flowers so delicately presented in an edible foil was a delight I have yet to see at a wedding–it’s on my list of recommendations.

Sweet and fresh, my selections in life go like this, you don’t forget certain flavors and this menu is no exception, you feel the passion for the cuisine and its continuous reinvention. The search for excellence is transmitted in each of their culinary creations based on seasonal products, as well as their collaborators who made us feel their commitment to this mission.

My favorites of the night: Pumpkin Cannoli, Angus Shiso Nori, and

"THE LIGHTING IS SOMETHING THAT STOOD OUT IN THE PLACE."

Chocolate Avocado Mango. An 18 course dinner with a wine pairing that made us travel to several regions of the country, passing through Cafayate, the Uco Valley and Mainqué, accompanying the flavors of each dish. At the same time, I was discovering the people with whom I shared the table. It has been one of the most motivating experiences of the last season, a great taste of what Emotions 2024 was like.

Whether it’s a trip as a couple, honeymoon, or an intimate event with which you want to surprise, we encourage you to book a romantic destination experience with new flavors, textures, and colors in Aramburu. EMOTIONS 2023

www.arambururesto.com.ar

PLAN YOUR WEDDING

info@casachameleonhotels.com

THE MOST ROMANTIC VENUE

Casa Chameleon Hotels offer an exquisite setting for any special occasion, from intimate gatherings to grand celebrations with your loved ones.

With open air event spaces, award winning dining options, and breathtaking surroundings, our venues are the ideal location for making unforgettable memories on your big day.

Contact Us US & Canada: 1 860 333 6199 Costa Rica +506 2103 1212

Romantic Destination Magazine

welcomes the Spring/ Summer season in SoHo

Credits: Public Relations: Carla Vascot Flowers. Estigma Floral Designs Venue: Sui Yoga New York PH: Erika Vizuete

Photography by: www.erikavizuete.com @erikavizueteph

Because when there is genuine connection, a photograph does not simply capture a moment — it preserves a legacy.

THE CREATIVE MIND BEHIND THE LENS

Scan to explore the full experience.

Erika Vizuete is an Ecuadorian photographer based in New York, inspired by individuals who embrace their story, pursue their dreams with intention, and reinvent themselves in the city she now calls home.

With a background in graphic and editorial design, and years of moving between Ecuador and New York, Erika developed a refined visual perspective that seamlessly blends design, storytelling, and photography. Her early career collaborations with renowned editorial publications shaped her aesthetic and strengthened her ability to merge artistry with purpose. Today, she specializes in lifestyle, portraiture, and brand storytelling — with a natural sensitivity for capturing love in its most authentic form.

For over a decade, Erika has worked alongside recognized brands and influential voices within the Latin community. In 2022, she opened her photography studio in the heart of New York City, bringing together years of experience, cultural depth, and creative evolution.

For Erika, photography — especially in the world of weddings — is about more than beautiful images. It is about connection. While technique and aesthetics are essential, she believes what truly gives a photograph meaning is the trust and intimacy built with each couple.

LOVE STORY

“As we began planning our wedding, I quickly found myself overwhelmed by the endless possibilities. I explored countless websites, Instagram accounts, and recommendations until I discovered Estigma Floral Designs. The moment I saw Johanna’s work, I knew she was the one we needed.

Katie Almas & Karl Mihm

Estigma Floral Design

Johanna is meticulous, kind, and genuinely thoughtful—not only in her creative approach, but also in the way she cares for her clients. She dedicated significant time to shaping and refining her proposal to match our vision and budget, keeping us informed at every step, from the smallest detail to the most important decisions. As someone who appreciates transparency and staying involved in the process, I was deeply grateful for her communication and openness throughout the entire design and production journey.

From the very beginning, I envisioned whimsical, vibrant, architectural florals for our wedding day. Johanna brought that vision to life with a natural, almost instinctive ease, and the result was more magical than I ever imagined. Walking into our reception brought me to tears—every tablescape and floral installation was crafted with extraordinary precision and beauty. Months later, our friends still talk about how incredible the florals were.

Johanna is an exceptional florist—talented, intuitive, and a true joy to work with. I wholeheartedly recommend her for any floral design needs.”

—Katie Almas & Karl Mihm

Vendors:

Flower Design: Johanna Orellana / Estigma Floral Designs www.estigmafloraldesigns.com/

Photographer: Katie Osgood

Hair and makeup: Bar Wedding

Nigth Before: Talea Cobble Hill

Photo Booth: Majestic Photo Booth

Transportation: Hampton Jitney

DJ/ ceremony music: 74 Events

Ligthting: Pegasus

Event Coordinator: Elizabeth Treimanis

A Greco‑Roman dream in the DominicanRepublic

Casa de Campo

became the perfect stage for this long‑awaited celebration, where every corner was transformed into a tribute to beauty and elegance.

The vision was brought to life by

Evaristo

de los Santos,

a renowned wedding planner admired for his talent and creativity. Together with his team, Evaristo orchestrated the magic of this wedding, ensuring that every detail aligned seamlessly with the Greco‑Roman theme. His dedication and meticulous attention to detail were essential in creating an unforgettable experience for the couple and their guests.

Every moment of the celebration was captured by the talented

Boyko team,

who immortalized the beauty and emotion of the day through stunning imagery. Their photographs not only documented the event but also told a story—one that reflects the essence of Mislene and Héctor’s love.

Jessica Salcedo:

ELEVATING THE TABLE INTO AN ART OF CELEBRATION

The table is more than an object; it is an emotional landscape where family stories find continuity. It is where traditions are celebrated, memories take shape, and the beauty of everyday life becomes something worth preserving.

Within this intimate language, Jessica Salcedo creates warm, intentional atmospheres that elevate the act of gathering. Her sensitivity—rooted in the generous Sunday tables of her grandparents and refined through her interior design background—has led her to collaborate with local brands and the prestigious international firm Vista Alegre.

For Jessica, hospitality begins with intention: a well‑pressed napkin, a garden flower, a thoughtful gesture meant for someone else. Her work invites us to return to the table as an act of care and presence, reminding us that true beauty does not depend on budget but on the heart behind it.

La mesa es más que un objeto; es un paisaje emocional donde las historias familiares encuentran continuidad. Es el espacio donde se celebran tradiciones, los recuerdos cobran forma y la belleza de lo cotidiano se transforma en algo digno de atesorar.

Dentro de este lenguaje íntimo, Jessica Salcedo crea atmósferas cálidas e intencionales que elevan el acto de reunirse. Su sensibilidad — arraigada en las generosas mesas dominicales de sus abuelos y afinada a través de su formación en diseño de interiores — la ha llevado a colaborar con marcas locales y con la prestigiosa firma internacional Vista Alegre.

Para Jessica, la hospitalidad comienza con la intención: una servilleta cuidadosamente planchada, una flor del jardín, un gesto pensado para alguien más. Su trabajo nos invita a regresar a la mesa como un acto de cuidado y presencia, recordándonos que la verdadera belleza no depende del presupuesto, sino del corazón que la sostiene.

Fotos cortesía de @jessicasalcedoliving

Jessica Salcedo:

Galapagos Special

A COMPLETE GUIDE TO HONEYMOONS AND WEDDINGS

The Galapagos archipelago remains a largely unexplored destination for many Ecuadorians. To truly connect with these islands, you need to visit more than once— and what better way to experience them for the first time than with your partner on a romantic getaway, a honeymoon, or even on your wedding day.

In 2025, the archipelago welcomed 279,277 visitors drawn by its ecotourism appeal.

Its otherworldly landscapes, shaped by volcanic origins, are complemented by the world’s second largest marine reserve. The archipelago is made up of 13 large islands, 9 medium islands, and 107 islets, each offering its own unique charm.

Planning a honeymoon or wedding in the Enchanted Islands requires attention to several important details:

BEFORE YOU TRAVEL

1. Book flights well in advance. Planning at least six months before the big day can secure fares as low as US $300 from Quito or Guayaquil to Baltra or San Cristóbal.

2. Work with a romance travel agent who can guide you through the permits and authorizations required to enter the archipelago. You must have reservations at a hotel with the appropriate safe‑operations permit and registration with the Ministry of Tourism, along with your ID and/ or passport. When done on time, the process is simple.

3. Pack for adventure: comfortable clothing, snorkeling gear, sturdy walking shoes, insect repellent, a reusable water bottle, a hat, sunscreen, beachwear, and—most importantly—a deep desire to discover the extraordinary beauty of the Galapagos.

BEST SEASONS AND LOCATIONS FOR YOUR

WEDDING

1. The ideal months for weddings are May–June and October–November, when temperatures average around 27°C

2. Recommended flowers include bougainvillea and plumeria (frangipani) perfect for decorating wedding arches, centerpieces, and ambient setups with candles, lights, or special fabrics. Hiring a local decorator is essential to explore the best options.

3. The setting makes all the difference: from dramatic lava tunnels and white‑sand beaches near inhabited ports to luxury hotels with premium infrastructure. (Permits are required.)

4. Consider offering local, origin‑certified souvenirs such as coffee, artisanal crafts, craft beers, or cocoa nibs.

5. A multi‑day wedding experience is highly recommended, allowing guests to enjoy unforgettable activities such as diving with sharks, swimming with sea lions, and exploring nature in its purest form.

KEY CONSIDERATIONS WHEN PLANNING A WEDDING IN THE GALAPAGOS

1. As a marine reserve, the islands have a restricted list of permitted products, and logistics can be slow. Shipping items to and from the mainland takes time.

2. Reconfirm conditions with all vendors and suppliers, and ensure agreements are signed.

3. Plan inter‑island transfers for guests— depending on the wedding location, these may require small planes or boats.

4. There is no immigration office in the Galapagos to formalize foreign marriages.

5. Confirm the date of the civil, religious, or symbolic ceremony at least twice.

6. Ensure all suppliers comply with biosafety standards within the tourism value chain.

7. Hire a Galapagos Destination Wedding Consultant.

8. Book flights, accommodations, and post‑wedding tours well in advance for both guests and your honeymoon, ideally through a certified operator or romance travel specialist.

Plan your scouting trip to the Enchanted Islands with special rates and the guidance of your travel consultant. www.viajesbodasymas.com

Written by Raúl Guarderas.

No Travel, No Paradise

Travel is a variation of the word “paradise.” It may even be the consequence of searching for one’s own. In that sense, it opens the intention of finding that Eden that so strongly captures the attention of every traveler.

Yes, travel seduces—and even before setting off, the idea of discovering new places sets the mind dreaming and imagining. Some choose an agency, an operator, a DMC, or a travel “designer.” Others, the FITs (Free Independent Travellers), dive into that imaginative, restless, investigative syndrome, and perhaps share the results and ideas for their next journey with their circle (or clan), the people they gather with for such plans. In other words, from backpacker to nomad, crafting the trip in their own way. They may also be a solitary soul whose vacation time is limited to just a few days.

Finally, the amplified expression of the latter—those with more time and freedom to move, mainly with their own vehicle (whatever it may be), crossing borders and seeing the journey itself as the goal—is what we now know as overlanding. In first person, and in just a few paragraphs, I want to share what it meant to discover this as my way of traveling: meaningful, enriching, and perhaps even challenging. Experiencing this adventure, enjoying the ability to travel on (or from the perspective of) my motorcycle, felt like love at first sight. And if life allows it, I believe I will continue traveling this way.

Just 45 minutes from Quito, Sierra Alisos offers an unforgettable escape into nature. Nestled on 250 acres of private farm, our beautifully refurbished lodge is a one-of-a-kind retreat, rich in nature and surrounded by breathtaking landscapes.

www.sierra-alisos.com

Tambillo Alto, Mejía, Ecuador, 171106 Hacienda Sierra Alisos, Ecuador (+593) 98 940 5064

Cartagena Wedding Dreams & Wedding Forum

Recognized as the most vibrant event in Colombia’s wedding and events industry, Cartagena Wedding Dreams & Wedding Forum began as a boutique gathering featuring high‑profile national speakers, along with special guests from Spain, Santo Domingo, and beyond. Its first editions took place in one of Cartagena’s most iconic hotels, the Sofitel Legend Santa Clara.

Today, it has evolved into the definitive meeting point for professionals who share a clear vision: positioning Cartagena as Latin America’s leading romance destination.

Each edition is a transformative experience—an invitation to get inspired, build authentic connections, and showcase your brand before a select audience from the global events community. Here, ideas ignite, collaborations flourish, and the creative energy is unmistakable.

PLANNING AND DESIGN

Cartagena de Indias: A Leading Wedding Tourism

Destination in South America

Cartagena de Indias continues to position itself as one of the strongest destinations in Latin America for weddings and romance tourism. Its historical heritage, colonial temples, and wide range of venues have made it a reference point for national and international couples seeking a setting with identity, tradition, and Caribbean charm.

According to Luis Gómez, Creative and Planning Director of Siente Bodas, the city offers “locations filled with history that allow for memorable ceremonies,” a characteristic that has driven the sustained growth of the sector.

HIGH-DEMAND TEMPLES AND VENUES

Among the most requested temples are the Cathedral of Santa Catalina de Alejandría, Santo Toribio Parish, San Pedro Claver Church, and Santo Domingo Church. The Cathedral alone hosts around 250 weddings per year, a figure that reflects the destination‘s relevance in the wedding market.

The city’s venue offering is equally diverse. Hotels and colonial houses such as the Four Seasons Hotel and Residences Cartagena, Sofitel Legend Santa Clara, Casa 1537, Casa Santos de Piedra, Casa Pestahua, the Baluartes, Casa Estrella, the Naval Museum, and Bellas Artes are among the most frequently chosen spaces for receptions and social events.

ECONOMIC IMPACT ACROSS STRATEGIC SECTORS

The rise of destination weddings boosts industries such as hospitality, event production, gastronomy, fashion design, beauty services, and air travel. Wedding budgets in Cartagena typically range between USD 25,000 and USD 60,000, depending on the type of celebration and services included.

IDEAL SEASON FOR WEDDINGS

The period from December to April is considered the most favorable for weddings in the city due to its dry climate and steady breezes. However, ceremonies are held throughout the year, especially in indoor venues that allow couples to avoid the rainy season while maintaining the charm of Cartagena’s colonial atmosphere.

A DESTINATION CHOSEN BY COUPLES FROM AROUND THE WORLD

According to Siente Bodas, 71% of the ceremonies correspond to foreign couples. Most come from the United States (55%), followed by Canada (25%), Venezuela (10%), Mexico (7%), and a remaining 3% from countries such as Brazil, India, Australia, Spain, France, Denmark, South Africa, and the Netherlands. Colonial architecture, the city’s historical significance, and its romantic atmosphere are key factors influencing their decision.

TRENDS IN AGES AND CELEBRATION FORMATS

Most couples who choose Cartagena are between 25 and 35 years old, although there is a growing number of celebrations among couples aged 45 to 60, a trend gaining strength in the industry. Siente Bodas organizes an average of 30 weddings per year, with celebrations lasting two to seven days. These often include menu tastings, welcome cocktails, ceremonies, beach days, and farewell brunches.

ATTRACTIVE FEATURES THAT REINFORCE THE DESTINATION’S APPEAL

The combination of history, culture, and the Caribbean Sea makes Cartagena a competitive destination at the international level. The city has been recognized by the World Travel Awards as one of South America’s leading romance destinations consecutively since 2018, a distinction that reinforces its positioning in the wedding and honeymoon tourism sector.

COMING SOON ANDES BATH RITUAL

A luxurious blend of plants, flowers, extracts, and mineral salts to feel the magic of the Andes on your body every day.

FABULOSAS CELEBRACIONES

This fabulous celebration, organized by Malú By Luna Planner and designed with the magnificent vision of Johanna Kronfle from Villa Gardenia, was the baptism of Lucía Almudena, born on April 8th, 2024. The event took place in the city of Manta, at Polígono La Costa, on April 26th.

Esta fabulosa celebración organizada por Malú By Luna Planner y Diseñada con la magnifica visión de Johanna Kronfle de Villa Gardenia fue el Bautizo de Lucía Almudena, nacida el 8 de abril del 2024, el evento fue realizado en la ciudad de Manta en el Polígono La Costa el 26 de abril.

Vendors:

Coordinación: @malubylunaplanner

Decoración: @villagardenia.ec

Catering: @casarosada.ec

Fotos: @alejandraruiz

Videografo: @arocapro

Dulces: @fioredonoso @chokolatp @postresdianacarrion

Pastel: @cake.studio.ec

Música: @marvilita @paoydossantos_ @marthaloor83

Cócteles: luigimurillo_bartenderservices

Papelería: @something.bluestudio @thelittlestudio.ec