Costa Rica, or 'the rich coast', got it's name when Christopher
Columbus visited in the 16th century and was impressed by the abundance
of gold worn by the local people. But you'll soon discover on a vacation
to this tiny Central American country, the true wealth of Costa Rica is
its incredible biodiversity and spectacular natural beauty.
The journey begins in the colorful capital city of San Jose. It is very
much a modern cosmopolitan city, full of sleek skyscrapers and busy people
but the lovely climate, which the locals refer to as 'eternal spring' makes
it a perfect city for sightseeing. The afternoon is spent checking out the
incredible treasures at the Gold Museum, mingling with some of the friendly
locals, or 'Ticos', at the Plaza de Cultural, and sampling some traditional
Costa Rican cuisine.
Costa Rican food is similar to what you find in other parts of Central America
with typical dishes containing rice, beans, and meat. You'll also find an
abundance of fresh fruits such as watermelon, mangoes, and pineapple. Because
they are grown locally they are exceptionally juicy and sweet. Another delicious
Costa Rican treat is pipa fria, cold coconut water, which is enjoyed with
a straw fright from the coconut! And, of course, Costa Rican coffee is fresh,
rich, and delicious! Some local plantations offer informational tours, where
you can see how the coffee bean is grown, picked, and ground' and then sample
the wonderful finished product!
From San Jose travel north to San Carlos, a small town that serves as the
gateway to the Arenal Volcano, one of the world's most active volcanoes.
It is quite an impressive sight, dominating the horizon with its massive
silhouette and emitting puffs of white smoke into the blue sky. Another
popular local attraction is Tabacon Hot Springs, a beautiful complex of
thermal pools and surrounded by lush tropical vegetation.
The next day visit the remote Cano Negro Nature Preserve, home to an incredible
assortment of indigenous wildlife. Upon arrival join a local guide aboard
a little motorboat and set off down the Rio Frio in search of wildlife.
You won't have to search far. Wildlife is everywhere! See crocodiles silently
peeking their eyes above the surface, a lethargic sloth clinging to a branch,
spider monkeys swinging in the trees high above, and the colorful birds
flying back and forth overhead. A truly incredible sight!
You wouldn't think Cano Negro could possibly be topped until you visit Monteverde
Cloud Forest. This expansive nature reserve has an incredible diversity
of flora and fauna, including trees that grow to heights of more then 100
feet and more then 400 species of birds. Monteverde is home to one of the
world's largest populations of the endangered Resplendent Quetzal, the ancient
holy bird of the Mayans. Keep your eyes peeled for the Quetzal as you explore
the Cloud Forest from its skywalk, a series of platforms and suspension
bridges built high in the treetops that gives you a fantastic birds-eye
view of the forest below. Being up so high among the sights and sounds of
the natural world, gives you a feeling of wonder and awe that is hard to
describe in mere words.
After exploring the tropical rainforests of Costa Rica's interior, head
for the gorgeous Guanacaste region on the northwest Pacific coast to cool
off and relax. A popular destination for sport fishermen, surfers, and beach
goers, this area is filled with world-class oceanfront resorts. The water
is blue, the beaches are clean, and the atmosphere is utterly relaxed. You
may wish to spend your days reading under the shade of an almond tree and
pacing the shoreline looking for sand dollars. And each night, as the sun
sinks below the horizon, watch the sky ignite into fiery shades of pink,
orange, and red. Pure Bliss.
