Visit to Costa Rica, January 21-
February 3, 2025
Costa Rica Trip
Tuesday, Jan 21, 2025
Uber was right on time to take me to the airport at 3:30 this morning. Joel was my driver and we had a nice chat on the 20 minute ride. I went through security with ease and found my gate with over an hour before boarding. We were delayed for about a half hour because of trouble starting one of the plane engines, not a great vote of confidence. However, the crew got it going and we took off for Miami.
Carry on luggage is a problem because people bring on luggage well beyond the so called limits. The bins fill up and for those of use who board in a later group, we are out of luck.
After some haggling, my problem got solved on this first leg of the trip. So, I prepared for the second flight by checking my carry on. I found out when I got on the plane that there was plenty of space for my duffel bag. The whole process is frustrating.
We left Miami on time and now I am beginning to write this travelogue. My two seat companions are a young couple who are very enamored of one another and quite affectionate.
And so, I will carry on for the next couple of hours, trying to pass the time, as I ponder what is ahead in Costa Rica. Gina let me know that Landon wants photos of the rainforest, I suspect for his class at school. I need to find out more about that.
I Arrived in Costa Rica on time and made my way through customs. I was picked up by Ronald and dropped at my Hotel, called The Autentico. I think I was one of the first of the trip to arrive and so I had to wait a bit for my room. Everyone here is very nice, particularly, Tania, the woman tending bar. I had a couple of nice word exchanges with while I downed a couple of beers. My luggage was delayed getting to my room and for awhile the elevator was not working. However, after a short time of trying to find something in English on the TV, I was able to gather my luggage, which appears to be in tact. The ambiance of the this hotel is nice and the people are friendly. Looking forward to when the rest of the group arrives either today or tomorrow. I will add some photos of the place tomorrow, but for now, I will attempt dinner in the hotel restaurant and call it a night. As plane trips go, it was OK, not super, but definitely on time with a driver to meet me at the airport. More tomorrow.
Wednesday, January 22, 2025
It was great to see Ann and Sally this morning at breakfast. We had a wonderful conversation catching up on the latest events in our lifes. Although I have enjoyed all my trips in the last fourteen years, I truly enjoy the trips taken with these two women friends from Wisconsin. There is an ease in our conversations that are filled with friendship and humor. Their flight went well, but they arrived much later in the day yesterday than I did. Yet, we were back at igniting our friendships early this morning.
We decided to take a walk around the area around 10 AM. We had spotted several park areas on our iPhone Maps and decided to trek the the relatively short distances to check them out. The first park was small, but had some nice walkways and a few views of the distant mountains. I started to use my Olympus Camera to record the various stages of our walk. After a short visit to this park, we headed the opposite direction toward a large green space with trees and plenty of space to roam. As we walked more searching for a body of water that we never found, we discovered a huge soccer field, a roller skating rink, tennis courts where two players were slamming the ball back and forth, some excellent views of architectural structures, with the mountains in the background, and a lot of people just having a good time, kicking the soccer ball,riding a scooter, jogging, or just sitting at a table in conversation with others. It was a good find and a satisfying walk of about 2 miles. The only difficulty was navigating the street crossings where moter cycylsts, cars, and trucks quickly navigated the city highways. Fortunately, the stop lights helped us along the way. We then met for lunch, but just before that, we met our guide for the trip Andres who told us that most people had arrived and that we would have a meeting at 6 tonight to discuss important items for our journey. He was quite pleasant and helpful.
Ann, Sally, and I then adjourned to the lunch room where we enjoyed a light lunch and some more conversation. I took a short nap to recover from my morning walk. At five, the three of us met for a drink and even more conversation.
Andres convened his meeting of our OAT Travel Group at 6. He shared a good deal of information about Costa Rica and the various spots on our itinerary. It sounds interesting and exciting. We have fourteen people in our group, many of whom spent their careers at some level of education. We should all have a lot to talk about as the trip proceeds. Andres gave us the “Rules of the Trip:”. Be on time, rest up during free time, be positive and not a whiner, enjoy the people of Costa Rica. There were some more rules, but not worth a mention here unless they apply later on in the trip. Andres was very direct about the rules which puts the responsibility on each of us to abide by them.
I had a rather large, dry hamburger for dinner with fries, which was a bit overdone. However, the conversation among new acquaintances while we ate was lively informative about our group. Many are seasoned travelers and have had very full filling careers. Ann and I shared a drink at the bar and called in a night after one drink.
It was great to see Ann and Sally this morning at breakfast. We had a wonderful conversation catching up on the latest events in our lifes. Although I have enjoyed all my trips in the last fourteen years, I truly enjoy the trips taken with these two women friends from Wisconsin. There is an ease in our conversations that are filled with friendship and humor. Their flight went well, but they arrived much later in the day yesterday than I did. Yet, we were back at igniting our friendships early this morning.
We decided to take a walk around the area around 10 AM. We had spotted several park areas on our iPhone Maps and decided to trek the the relatively short distances to check them out. The first park was small, but had some nice walkways and a few views of the distant mountains. I started to use my Olympus Camera to record the various stages of our walk. After a short visit to this park, we headed the opposite direction toward a large green space with trees and plenty of space to roam. As we walked more searching for a body of water that we never found, we discovered a huge soccer field, a roller skating rink, tennis courts where two players were slamming the ball back and forth, some excellent views of architectural structures, with the mountains in the background, and a lot of people just having a good time, kicking the soccer ball,riding a scooter, jogging, or just sitting at a table in conversation with others. It was a good find and a satisfying walk of about 2 miles. The only difficulty was navigating the street crossings where moter cycylsts, cars, and trucks quickly navigated the city highways. Fortunately, the stop lights helped us along the way. We then met for lunch, but just before that, we met our guide for the trip Andres who told us that most people had arrived and that we would have a meeting at 6 tonight to discuss important items for our journey. He was quite pleasant and helpful.
Ann, Sally, and I then adjourned to the lunch room where we enjoyed a light lunch and some more conversation. I took a short nap to recover from my morning walk. At five, the three of us met for a drink and even more conversation.
Andres convened his meeting of our OAT Travel Group at 6. He shared a good deal of information about Costa Rica and the various spots on our itinerary. It sounds interesting and exciting. We have fourteen people in our group, many of whom spent their careers at some level of education. We should all have a lot to talk about as the trip proceeds. Andres gave us the “Rules of the Trip:”. Be on time, rest up during free time, be positive and not a whiner, enjoy the people of Costa Rica. There were some more rules, but not worth a mention here unless they apply later on in the trip. Andres was very direct about the rules which puts the responsibility on each of us to abide by them.
I had a rather large, dry hamburger for dinner with fries, which was a bit overdone. However, the conversation among new acquaintances while we ate was lively informative about our group. Many are seasoned travelers and have had very full filling careers. Ann and I shared a drink at the bar and called in a night after one drink.
Thursday, January 23, 2025
We left our hotel at 8 and started are trek across one of the mountain ranges to Muelle San Carlos. About 90 minutes down the road we stopped at a Coffee Producing Farm at an elevation of 4200 feet where the owner gave us a wonderful demonstration of the coffee making process. There are five steps: growing the coffee fruit, layering it to get to the third layer of the fruit, drying the layered fruit, storing it, removing the fourth layer, and roasting the bean, The owner talked to us about the different varies of coffee plants, and then took us on a step by step sequencing of the process. He spoke Spanish and our guide, Andres, translated for us. They were a team in sync. The owner answered all of our many questions as we followed the process. I took photos of most of the various stages of producing and brewing the coffee. We then enjoyed a delicious beef and broth soup with fresh vegetables. It was an impressive first stop our trip.
We got on the bus and proceeded to climb the moutain to 6000 feet and the Continental device where the waters flowed East and West depending on location. This was a forested landscape covered in Clouds, thus known as one of the Cloud Forests of Costa Rica, It was slow going, but we eventually started down the mountain toward our destination of Muelle San Carlos and hotel in the Rain Forest of the north. Andres stopped the bus twice, once to take photos of a very impressive waterfall and secondly to spot and take photos of a Sloth hanging from the limb of one its favorite trees. It was a mail Sloth because of the black line on his back. Thanks to Andres’help, I was able to catch a short movie that hopefully my grandson, Landon, may enjoy. Andres knew that this are might have a Sloth or two hanging out in the trees. It was great call.
We arrived at our hotel/lodge (Tllijari). at 4 PM and went to our rooms. I am on the first floor with a view of the muddy, crocodile infested river flowing by the front of my hotel room.
I met Ann and Sally at 5:30 for a drink in the bar. Jan, Debbie, and Cindy joined us at various times. We adjourned to the dining room to order from a limited menu for dinner. I chose Gaspachio and shredded beef Costa Rican dish with rice and beans. It was the right amount of food and it was good, but not that interesting to me. However, I thought it important to try some of the local cuisine and I did. After dinner, I adjourned to my room overlooking the muddy San Carlos River, sat for a few minutes on the porch and retired for the evening. As a first day on an OAT trip, this was a good one. Learning about family managed coffee producing was quite interesting.
We left our hotel at 8 and started are trek across one of the mountain ranges to Muelle San Carlos. About 90 minutes down the road we stopped at a Coffee Producing Farm at an elevation of 4200 feet where the owner gave us a wonderful demonstration of the coffee making process. There are five steps: growing the coffee fruit, layering it to get to the third layer of the fruit, drying the layered fruit, storing it, removing the fourth layer, and roasting the bean, The owner talked to us about the different varies of coffee plants, and then took us on a step by step sequencing of the process. He spoke Spanish and our guide, Andres, translated for us. They were a team in sync. The owner answered all of our many questions as we followed the process. I took photos of most of the various stages of producing and brewing the coffee. We then enjoyed a delicious beef and broth soup with fresh vegetables. It was an impressive first stop our trip.
We got on the bus and proceeded to climb the moutain to 6000 feet and the Continental device where the waters flowed East and West depending on location. This was a forested landscape covered in Clouds, thus known as one of the Cloud Forests of Costa Rica, It was slow going, but we eventually started down the mountain toward our destination of Muelle San Carlos and hotel in the Rain Forest of the north. Andres stopped the bus twice, once to take photos of a very impressive waterfall and secondly to spot and take photos of a Sloth hanging from the limb of one its favorite trees. It was a mail Sloth because of the black line on his back. Thanks to Andres’help, I was able to catch a short movie that hopefully my grandson, Landon, may enjoy. Andres knew that this are might have a Sloth or two hanging out in the trees. It was great call.
We arrived at our hotel/lodge (Tllijari). at 4 PM and went to our rooms. I am on the first floor with a view of the muddy, crocodile infested river flowing by the front of my hotel room.
I met Ann and Sally at 5:30 for a drink in the bar. Jan, Debbie, and Cindy joined us at various times. We adjourned to the dining room to order from a limited menu for dinner. I chose Gaspachio and shredded beef Costa Rican dish with rice and beans. It was the right amount of food and it was good, but not that interesting to me. However, I thought it important to try some of the local cuisine and I did. After dinner, I adjourned to my room overlooking the muddy San Carlos River, sat for a few minutes on the porch and retired for the evening. As a first day on an OAT trip, this was a good one. Learning about family managed coffee producing was quite interesting.
Friday, January 23, 2025
We left San Carlos at 8 AM for Rio Frio and our wildlife adventure boat ride on the very high river which had flooded a good deal of the surrounding grass and forest areas. The ride seemed long because of the amount of traffic and how difficult is to pass on rather hilly straight roads. We arrived shortly after 9 AM and boarded the boat directly.
We headed south on the river to begin with. Andres and the boat driver were relentless in trying to identify wildlife in the trees. As a result we discovered and observed numerous colorful birds, iguana's, and two different types of monkeys, holler monkey being one of those versions. They inhabited the trees, but were not easy to spot or photograph. However, despite my ability to see through the natural camouflage of the various animals, I was able to capture some photos of these interesting creatures. Andres explained their mating and gathering habits as we went along. We saw a dwarf crocodile called a Caiman, native to Central America. At some point a few miles south on the river, we turned north and headed toward the boarder of Nicaragua. We saw some more wildlife and then sort of backed our boat over the border to say that we were in another country. There is tension between the two countries, because Nicaragua’s dictator, Ortega, puts restrictions his people coming and going into Costar Rica who come to work the coffee plantations and in other jobs that Costa Ricans do not want to do because it is difficult work for not much money. The boat ride was relaxing because we were not walking, but a bit taxing for me because of the stress of trying to see the hard to find animals in the trees.
We had lunch nearby at a place that caters to traveling busloads of tourists. The food came fast, tasted fine, and gave we members of the group a chance to reflect on our recent river experience.
On the way back to our hotel, we stopped to visit a local businessman and his wife and family. Several years ago, the business owner began to collect the trunks of Papaya Trees, which are hollow inside, and harvest them for a rice like dish by putting the material through a process. He had to invent most of the devices they use in changing the pulp inside the tree to an edible substance. My photos attempt to display the step by step process from raw material to the finished product. In the demonstration for us, the material they produced in front of us was bagged into 10 kilo bags for sale to passing motorists or to county fairs that cook the edible material for these local celebrations. The material is significantly cheaper than rice or other comparable dishes. This product is only produced in this part of Costa Rica. It was an example of a very bright business guy creating a product using castoff items to invent the manufacturing process. They were a delightful family, happy to share their business success, and to feed us some of their excellent product. This product can be blended with a whole variety of meat and vegetables. In addition, it is healthy.
We returned to the hotel about 4 PM, rested a bit and then headed out for the Night Walk in a section of the Rain Forest nearby where we would discover the beauty of a multitude of nocturnal creatures, mostly quite small. Andres took a number of photos that I will share here. We walked with flash lights for 90 minutes while our guides discovered and explained the many different types of frogs, lizards, a snake, and several nocturnal insects. I had my walking stick to help me navigate the tree root filled path and to circle around the muddy areas. The last thing you wanted to do was wander off the path into the Rain forest with its vast green vegetation and trees and significant drop offs. There was a tree canopy over us that blocked out the stars. It never rained during our walk, but it was clear that showers occurred often on this piece of heavily forested land.
We then took the bumpy road back to the main road and made the short drive back to the hotel. We went to dinner and enjoyed pleasant conversations over our Costa Rican cuisine. I hit the bed about 10 PM after a long and very interesting day.
We left San Carlos at 8 AM for Rio Frio and our wildlife adventure boat ride on the very high river which had flooded a good deal of the surrounding grass and forest areas. The ride seemed long because of the amount of traffic and how difficult is to pass on rather hilly straight roads. We arrived shortly after 9 AM and boarded the boat directly.
We headed south on the river to begin with. Andres and the boat driver were relentless in trying to identify wildlife in the trees. As a result we discovered and observed numerous colorful birds, iguana's, and two different types of monkeys, holler monkey being one of those versions. They inhabited the trees, but were not easy to spot or photograph. However, despite my ability to see through the natural camouflage of the various animals, I was able to capture some photos of these interesting creatures. Andres explained their mating and gathering habits as we went along. We saw a dwarf crocodile called a Caiman, native to Central America. At some point a few miles south on the river, we turned north and headed toward the boarder of Nicaragua. We saw some more wildlife and then sort of backed our boat over the border to say that we were in another country. There is tension between the two countries, because Nicaragua’s dictator, Ortega, puts restrictions his people coming and going into Costar Rica who come to work the coffee plantations and in other jobs that Costa Ricans do not want to do because it is difficult work for not much money. The boat ride was relaxing because we were not walking, but a bit taxing for me because of the stress of trying to see the hard to find animals in the trees.
We had lunch nearby at a place that caters to traveling busloads of tourists. The food came fast, tasted fine, and gave we members of the group a chance to reflect on our recent river experience.
On the way back to our hotel, we stopped to visit a local businessman and his wife and family. Several years ago, the business owner began to collect the trunks of Papaya Trees, which are hollow inside, and harvest them for a rice like dish by putting the material through a process. He had to invent most of the devices they use in changing the pulp inside the tree to an edible substance. My photos attempt to display the step by step process from raw material to the finished product. In the demonstration for us, the material they produced in front of us was bagged into 10 kilo bags for sale to passing motorists or to county fairs that cook the edible material for these local celebrations. The material is significantly cheaper than rice or other comparable dishes. This product is only produced in this part of Costa Rica. It was an example of a very bright business guy creating a product using castoff items to invent the manufacturing process. They were a delightful family, happy to share their business success, and to feed us some of their excellent product. This product can be blended with a whole variety of meat and vegetables. In addition, it is healthy.
We returned to the hotel about 4 PM, rested a bit and then headed out for the Night Walk in a section of the Rain Forest nearby where we would discover the beauty of a multitude of nocturnal creatures, mostly quite small. Andres took a number of photos that I will share here. We walked with flash lights for 90 minutes while our guides discovered and explained the many different types of frogs, lizards, a snake, and several nocturnal insects. I had my walking stick to help me navigate the tree root filled path and to circle around the muddy areas. The last thing you wanted to do was wander off the path into the Rain forest with its vast green vegetation and trees and significant drop offs. There was a tree canopy over us that blocked out the stars. It never rained during our walk, but it was clear that showers occurred often on this piece of heavily forested land.
We then took the bumpy road back to the main road and made the short drive back to the hotel. We went to dinner and enjoyed pleasant conversations over our Costa Rican cuisine. I hit the bed about 10 PM after a long and very interesting day.
Saturday, January 25, 2025
It was another busy day, but with a later start at 9 AM. I almost missed the bus losing track. of time as I worked on this journal. However, I made the bus and we set out for Juanilama Village, controlled by a Committee of Women who provide a unique governmental structure for this rural community. It was about an hour drive, partly on a bumpy road into the village for a visit at the secondary school. Andres explained the educational system in Costa Rica to us on the bus. The public schools do not get enough money to support, particularly the rural schools that have fewer students and often only one or two teachers and a principal.
We were treated royally at the small secondary school we visited. Students go to elementary school up to sixth grade, then go to secondary school up to eleventh grade. They need to pass a graduation test, which permits them to take entrance exams into the Costa Rican University system. There is a Technical post secondary school that students who do not make the entrance requirements can go to in order to become mechanics, plumbers, etc.
An English teacher told us about the village school and we introduced ourselves to the teacher, a board member parent, and several students who had come to the presentation to show us what they do in the school. After the introductions, the students shared some history of the school, examples of their talented craft work, and a lovely demonstration of Costa Rican dance in costumes with the colors of the local area, in this case green and white. I shot some video of a portion of the three dances they did for us. We joined in with them on the last dance for a joyous celebration of this local visit by our group. The teacher gave us a tour of the tiny school that only had three classrooms where all of the instruction took place. We presented the school with some gift materials, climbed back on our bus and drove just a mile down the road to Jami’s house where we would participate in making lunch. Jami is the Vice President of the Juanilama Women’s Association and keeper of a lovely, well put together home. Jami is a seamstress and has a sophisticated sewing machine array to support her designing and making clothes for her family and others. Jami was widowed a year ago, but she talked about the hard work and conditions early on that she and her husband experienced in building their home in the village. Her husband had constructed other structures to house their chickens and animals, but he also built a second house for their daughter, but now use it as an Air B&B.
We adjourned to a community area on the property to make lunch. Several women were there preparing the food, but we were able to help. Some of us made salad, others cooked the plantain, others prepared the rice and beans. I helped in preparing the 20 tortillas that we made with the dough made by one of the women. These “Day in the Life” experiences with OAT where we help to prepare the food that we will consume are always a joy, and this experience was no exception. We sat at the table with the women who prepared all of this and enjoyed a delightful lunch. Andres did a great job in explaining all of the details that define this vibrant community and, in addition, provided us with lunch. We left our gifts for the women, thanked them and retreated to the bus for the ride back to the hotel. This was a delightful story in the life of the village demonstrated by the dedicated women who manage it all.
I took a short photo walk back at the hotel, but my camera was not behaving and the walk was unproductive. We left for La Fortuna, a good sized town nearby whose growth was influenced by the volcano that continues to be active. It was a busy little town with lots of stores, a beautiful park square with many shops, restaurants, gelato stores, surrounding it, including a Catholic Church where I attended Saturday night Mass before joining my group across the street for dinner and more delightful conversations, this time with Lynn, Brian, Melanie, Harland, and Debbie. The food and talk was great. After dinner, Ann bought Sally and I a gelato, which was a great finale to the very interesting day. We arrived back at the hotel before 9 PM and I went to bed.
This was a special day on the trip because of all the wonderful local people we met, a commodity that Costa Rica has in abundance.
It was another busy day, but with a later start at 9 AM. I almost missed the bus losing track. of time as I worked on this journal. However, I made the bus and we set out for Juanilama Village, controlled by a Committee of Women who provide a unique governmental structure for this rural community. It was about an hour drive, partly on a bumpy road into the village for a visit at the secondary school. Andres explained the educational system in Costa Rica to us on the bus. The public schools do not get enough money to support, particularly the rural schools that have fewer students and often only one or two teachers and a principal.
We were treated royally at the small secondary school we visited. Students go to elementary school up to sixth grade, then go to secondary school up to eleventh grade. They need to pass a graduation test, which permits them to take entrance exams into the Costa Rican University system. There is a Technical post secondary school that students who do not make the entrance requirements can go to in order to become mechanics, plumbers, etc.
An English teacher told us about the village school and we introduced ourselves to the teacher, a board member parent, and several students who had come to the presentation to show us what they do in the school. After the introductions, the students shared some history of the school, examples of their talented craft work, and a lovely demonstration of Costa Rican dance in costumes with the colors of the local area, in this case green and white. I shot some video of a portion of the three dances they did for us. We joined in with them on the last dance for a joyous celebration of this local visit by our group. The teacher gave us a tour of the tiny school that only had three classrooms where all of the instruction took place. We presented the school with some gift materials, climbed back on our bus and drove just a mile down the road to Jami’s house where we would participate in making lunch. Jami is the Vice President of the Juanilama Women’s Association and keeper of a lovely, well put together home. Jami is a seamstress and has a sophisticated sewing machine array to support her designing and making clothes for her family and others. Jami was widowed a year ago, but she talked about the hard work and conditions early on that she and her husband experienced in building their home in the village. Her husband had constructed other structures to house their chickens and animals, but he also built a second house for their daughter, but now use it as an Air B&B.
We adjourned to a community area on the property to make lunch. Several women were there preparing the food, but we were able to help. Some of us made salad, others cooked the plantain, others prepared the rice and beans. I helped in preparing the 20 tortillas that we made with the dough made by one of the women. These “Day in the Life” experiences with OAT where we help to prepare the food that we will consume are always a joy, and this experience was no exception. We sat at the table with the women who prepared all of this and enjoyed a delightful lunch. Andres did a great job in explaining all of the details that define this vibrant community and, in addition, provided us with lunch. We left our gifts for the women, thanked them and retreated to the bus for the ride back to the hotel. This was a delightful story in the life of the village demonstrated by the dedicated women who manage it all.
I took a short photo walk back at the hotel, but my camera was not behaving and the walk was unproductive. We left for La Fortuna, a good sized town nearby whose growth was influenced by the volcano that continues to be active. It was a busy little town with lots of stores, a beautiful park square with many shops, restaurants, gelato stores, surrounding it, including a Catholic Church where I attended Saturday night Mass before joining my group across the street for dinner and more delightful conversations, this time with Lynn, Brian, Melanie, Harland, and Debbie. The food and talk was great. After dinner, Ann bought Sally and I a gelato, which was a great finale to the very interesting day. We arrived back at the hotel before 9 PM and I went to bed.
This was a special day on the trip because of all the wonderful local people we met, a commodity that Costa Rica has in abundance.
Sunday, January 26, 2025
Our goal today was to reach Monteverde and the Pura Vida Resort by 4 PM. So, after breakfast we set out on our westward trek to the Cloud Forest in Monteverdi. Our first destination was the Lake Arenal near one of the once active Volcanos of Costa Rica. We reached the Arenal Volcanic National Park in late morning and took the bumpy ride on the road into the park. When we were almost there, we encountered a down tree from the heavy rain and wind storm that had occurred the day before. We had to walk the last quarter mile down to the Ranger Station. Our guide was told the park was closed, but he was able to negotiate our trek down to the lake and our awaiting boat that would take us on a nature cruise of the Arsenal Lake, a man made result of the Volcano from years past. We made the trek which was all down the hlll to the boat and began our cruise. Andres and the boat driver looked for birds and wildlife along the shore and we shot views of the once active volcano with cloud cover at the very top. Andres explained the history of the Volcanos and three different cones, A being the largest and the latest to develop. In the meantime, both kept their eyes out for birds on the shore and areas where a smaller version of a crocodile known as a Caimen, might reside. The waters were so high that Andres thought the Caimens would not emerge for view. However, along with several different birds to photograph, we did spot a baby Caiman hiding in the shore line weeds.
We had lunch on the boat, continued to cruise the shoreline and eventually reached the far shoreline where Allen had driven the truck to pick us up. We then began are long and bumpy trip on a very rural back road through some of the most wonderful mountains and valleys with many cattle roaming the land, and horses grazing. We went up and down, back and forth on this road filled with switch backs and marveled all the way at the scenery. We were rewarded for this bumpy road with and ice cream and refreshment stop about an hour out of Monteverde. We eventually made it off the bumpy road on to a real highway, but not without some clapping for Allen’s driving through this treacherous terrain.
We arrived at our resort hotel around 4 and obtained keys to our room. They were located in Building 5 about halfway up the mountain where we were transported from Reception to our rooms by our bus driver, Allen. My room is beautiful with scenic views of the valley below what is known in Costa Rica as the Cloud Forest. We are some 5000 feet above sea level and looking out my very large window facing west and beautiful sunsets are jaw dropping. Ann, Sally and I adjourned to the welcoming restaurant and bar where we shared a few drinks, some conversation, a beautiful sunset, and some NFL Conference level football with the Eagles and the Chiefs ending up victorious and headed to the Super Bowl in two weeks.
We ate a very nice meal at the same restaurant and settled in for the night around 9 PM. This resort complex is quite large with many of its own activities, but because we are so high, air conditioning is not really necessary. There are windows that open to the outside which allows very cool air to enter the room. It was a bit chilly last night, but now I know the technology for closing the windows placed high on the walls, so tonight should be better.
This is whole different geographic area of Costa Rica and it is very beautiful. For a small country, it has rich scenery, culture, nice people, and good food. Some of the roads need improvement.
Our goal today was to reach Monteverde and the Pura Vida Resort by 4 PM. So, after breakfast we set out on our westward trek to the Cloud Forest in Monteverdi. Our first destination was the Lake Arenal near one of the once active Volcanos of Costa Rica. We reached the Arenal Volcanic National Park in late morning and took the bumpy ride on the road into the park. When we were almost there, we encountered a down tree from the heavy rain and wind storm that had occurred the day before. We had to walk the last quarter mile down to the Ranger Station. Our guide was told the park was closed, but he was able to negotiate our trek down to the lake and our awaiting boat that would take us on a nature cruise of the Arsenal Lake, a man made result of the Volcano from years past. We made the trek which was all down the hlll to the boat and began our cruise. Andres and the boat driver looked for birds and wildlife along the shore and we shot views of the once active volcano with cloud cover at the very top. Andres explained the history of the Volcanos and three different cones, A being the largest and the latest to develop. In the meantime, both kept their eyes out for birds on the shore and areas where a smaller version of a crocodile known as a Caimen, might reside. The waters were so high that Andres thought the Caimens would not emerge for view. However, along with several different birds to photograph, we did spot a baby Caiman hiding in the shore line weeds.
We had lunch on the boat, continued to cruise the shoreline and eventually reached the far shoreline where Allen had driven the truck to pick us up. We then began are long and bumpy trip on a very rural back road through some of the most wonderful mountains and valleys with many cattle roaming the land, and horses grazing. We went up and down, back and forth on this road filled with switch backs and marveled all the way at the scenery. We were rewarded for this bumpy road with and ice cream and refreshment stop about an hour out of Monteverde. We eventually made it off the bumpy road on to a real highway, but not without some clapping for Allen’s driving through this treacherous terrain.
We arrived at our resort hotel around 4 and obtained keys to our room. They were located in Building 5 about halfway up the mountain where we were transported from Reception to our rooms by our bus driver, Allen. My room is beautiful with scenic views of the valley below what is known in Costa Rica as the Cloud Forest. We are some 5000 feet above sea level and looking out my very large window facing west and beautiful sunsets are jaw dropping. Ann, Sally and I adjourned to the welcoming restaurant and bar where we shared a few drinks, some conversation, a beautiful sunset, and some NFL Conference level football with the Eagles and the Chiefs ending up victorious and headed to the Super Bowl in two weeks.
We ate a very nice meal at the same restaurant and settled in for the night around 9 PM. This resort complex is quite large with many of its own activities, but because we are so high, air conditioning is not really necessary. There are windows that open to the outside which allows very cool air to enter the room. It was a bit chilly last night, but now I know the technology for closing the windows placed high on the walls, so tonight should be better.
This is whole different geographic area of Costa Rica and it is very beautiful. For a small country, it has rich scenery, culture, nice people, and good food. Some of the roads need improvement.
Monday, January 27, 2025
First, a few words about this Resort Hotel in Monteverde known as Las Rienlas. It sits atop a high area in Monteverde up in the Cloud Forest. It has units on several different elevation levels. We are in Building 5 where our rooms overlook the vast valley and far away mountains areas in the distance, including a large body of water known as an extension of the Pacific into the Gulf. Its scenic beauty is mesmerizing, particularly at Sunset when the sphere disappears behind the distant mountains areas hills. It is truly a beautiful place. The breakfast restaurant is at the first level of the resort and we have to drive down to it. To walk back to our units from the restaurant would be an exhausting venture. The resort has shuttles to take you back and forth and our driver Allen picks us up most of the time.
After breakfast, which is pretty consistent across Costa Rica, we head out to the Cloud Forest National Park for a 4 mile hike on a hilly trail frequently with ups and downs. Andres stopped on numerous occasions to point out the flora and fauna along the way. He did spot a famous Costa Rican bird, the Quetzal, up in a tree and we all got a look at it. I was able to see the bird through the scope and its beautiful green plumage and long tail. My own photo leaves much to be desired.
I knew about 20 minutes into the hike that I would not make it to the full distance. The up hill trajectories left me a little out of breath. I turned back at .70 miles on the hike with one another member of our group. We took our time going back and it turned out to be a pleasant hike. It was mostly green rain forests that I saw on the hike with some wildlife, flowers, and interesting vegetation. The good news is that the hike provided a good portion of my 3 miles I traversed yesterday and caused me to make my normal walking exercise goal. The group returned from the hike and we ate lunch at the restaurant located at the National Park. I had a tasty dish of pasta and red sauce, which I hope was a bit lighter than some of the other choices.
After lunch, Andres took us on a brief walk in the park to the Humming Bird Station located near a coffee shop. We spent about 15 minutes shooting photos of the beautifully colored, tiny birds, with their speedy wings. We even saw a sloth hanging on the roof above the station. It was a “Surprise” that for me help to make up for the section of the hike that I missed.
We arrived back at the Resort about 2 PM. I did not go to the Bat Sanctuary, which was an option for some. I wanted to rest a bit and to catch up with this journal, which I did. About 3:30, I walked down to the pool and sat in conversation with Ann and Sally and several members of our group. Ann invited Sally and I to her room for a glass of wine and to watch the beautiful sunset that we captured in photos as we talked about the day’s events and the overall trip. I have seen two sunsets from the heights of this resort and both were exceptional. There is little doubt in my mind that this country is a Naturalist’s heaven with its many different species, plants, and dramatic landscapes, and haunting sunsets.
Allen drove all of us to a wonderful Italian restaurant in the middle of Monteverde where I enjoyed a wood burning stove baked pizza and an Imperial beer. It was the completion of a strenuous but worthwhile series of events during the day.
First, a few words about this Resort Hotel in Monteverde known as Las Rienlas. It sits atop a high area in Monteverde up in the Cloud Forest. It has units on several different elevation levels. We are in Building 5 where our rooms overlook the vast valley and far away mountains areas in the distance, including a large body of water known as an extension of the Pacific into the Gulf. Its scenic beauty is mesmerizing, particularly at Sunset when the sphere disappears behind the distant mountains areas hills. It is truly a beautiful place. The breakfast restaurant is at the first level of the resort and we have to drive down to it. To walk back to our units from the restaurant would be an exhausting venture. The resort has shuttles to take you back and forth and our driver Allen picks us up most of the time.
After breakfast, which is pretty consistent across Costa Rica, we head out to the Cloud Forest National Park for a 4 mile hike on a hilly trail frequently with ups and downs. Andres stopped on numerous occasions to point out the flora and fauna along the way. He did spot a famous Costa Rican bird, the Quetzal, up in a tree and we all got a look at it. I was able to see the bird through the scope and its beautiful green plumage and long tail. My own photo leaves much to be desired.
I knew about 20 minutes into the hike that I would not make it to the full distance. The up hill trajectories left me a little out of breath. I turned back at .70 miles on the hike with one another member of our group. We took our time going back and it turned out to be a pleasant hike. It was mostly green rain forests that I saw on the hike with some wildlife, flowers, and interesting vegetation. The good news is that the hike provided a good portion of my 3 miles I traversed yesterday and caused me to make my normal walking exercise goal. The group returned from the hike and we ate lunch at the restaurant located at the National Park. I had a tasty dish of pasta and red sauce, which I hope was a bit lighter than some of the other choices.
After lunch, Andres took us on a brief walk in the park to the Humming Bird Station located near a coffee shop. We spent about 15 minutes shooting photos of the beautifully colored, tiny birds, with their speedy wings. We even saw a sloth hanging on the roof above the station. It was a “Surprise” that for me help to make up for the section of the hike that I missed.
We arrived back at the Resort about 2 PM. I did not go to the Bat Sanctuary, which was an option for some. I wanted to rest a bit and to catch up with this journal, which I did. About 3:30, I walked down to the pool and sat in conversation with Ann and Sally and several members of our group. Ann invited Sally and I to her room for a glass of wine and to watch the beautiful sunset that we captured in photos as we talked about the day’s events and the overall trip. I have seen two sunsets from the heights of this resort and both were exceptional. There is little doubt in my mind that this country is a Naturalist’s heaven with its many different species, plants, and dramatic landscapes, and haunting sunsets.
Allen drove all of us to a wonderful Italian restaurant in the middle of Monteverde where I enjoyed a wood burning stove baked pizza and an Imperial beer. It was the completion of a strenuous but worthwhile series of events during the day.
Tuesday, January 28, 2025
This was an action packed day. It began with Zip Lining at the top elevations of our Resort and gave ten of us on the tour a real thrill. We arrived at 8 AM to be met by a crew of Zip Line Experts who helped us put on our gear, helped us to feel comfortable, explained the technique for riding the wire, and then proceeded to help us on each leg of our journey. I have never done this before, so I was nervous not so much about the safety factors, but about how I would process the information that I received along the way from the crew. Except for one place where I braked a little early, I made it to the platforms without incidence. A crew member came out 10 feet to rescue me from the one miscue. We traversed seven separate zip lines with the second to last being the longest. At one point we repelled down to a lower level and at another, we navigated a hanging bridge. I really enjoyed the experience. Our guide took some photos of each of us and the group to document our accomplishments. It took about two hours for the 10 of us to navigate the course. The views of the tree tops were beautiful and we saw a good deal of the vast countryside on the longest ride toward the end of the course. It was a truly great experience.
After thanking our crew members, we headed back to our Resort a few hundred feet below. At 11:15, we left to have lunch and dropped off laundry with a local business operator. We proceeded on to a family dairy farm where one of the family members gave us a history of the farm and the Quakers who settled the area. He traced the family tree for us and talked about the joys and challenges of the farm. Because they have a large family, they produced most of the crops for their own use, but also provide the local market with dairy, coffee, and other agricultural products. They have also expanded their family business to others. One of the daughters manages a lodge.
We took a tour of the lovely garden and saw the green house where they raise some specialized products. i took some photos of the lovely flowers integrated into the farm property. Following the tour, we had a delightful lunch of rice and beans, chicken, a delicious salad and some of their own cheese. These experiences with OAT become the special moments of the trip. Zip Lining is exciting. Lunch with a local family is special.
After lunch, we headed out for another hiking adventure at the top of the trees where we would navigate a series of hanging bridges constructed at the tree top level of the Cloud Forest. It was another hike of ups and downs, but not as strenuous as the day before. I was able to cross three of the six bridges and was able to take photos of the tree tops and the various scenes at the top of the forest. There are actually 6 bridges on this walk. I only made half the journey. It was just wise for me to stop. I had seen the essence of this activity had to offer and I am very glad that I experienced it.
Before dinner, we had a glass of wine in Ann’s room where Ann, Sally, and I watched another fabulous sunset. The colors are awesome and provide truly unique compositions.
We all went out for dinner in town where I had a Costa Rican Fajita dish that was OK, but I only had three tortillas to fill. However, I ate most of it and returned for our final night in our mountaintop hotel. I had my laundry done yesterday, so I was ready for the remainder of the trip.
This was an action packed day. It began with Zip Lining at the top elevations of our Resort and gave ten of us on the tour a real thrill. We arrived at 8 AM to be met by a crew of Zip Line Experts who helped us put on our gear, helped us to feel comfortable, explained the technique for riding the wire, and then proceeded to help us on each leg of our journey. I have never done this before, so I was nervous not so much about the safety factors, but about how I would process the information that I received along the way from the crew. Except for one place where I braked a little early, I made it to the platforms without incidence. A crew member came out 10 feet to rescue me from the one miscue. We traversed seven separate zip lines with the second to last being the longest. At one point we repelled down to a lower level and at another, we navigated a hanging bridge. I really enjoyed the experience. Our guide took some photos of each of us and the group to document our accomplishments. It took about two hours for the 10 of us to navigate the course. The views of the tree tops were beautiful and we saw a good deal of the vast countryside on the longest ride toward the end of the course. It was a truly great experience.
After thanking our crew members, we headed back to our Resort a few hundred feet below. At 11:15, we left to have lunch and dropped off laundry with a local business operator. We proceeded on to a family dairy farm where one of the family members gave us a history of the farm and the Quakers who settled the area. He traced the family tree for us and talked about the joys and challenges of the farm. Because they have a large family, they produced most of the crops for their own use, but also provide the local market with dairy, coffee, and other agricultural products. They have also expanded their family business to others. One of the daughters manages a lodge.
We took a tour of the lovely garden and saw the green house where they raise some specialized products. i took some photos of the lovely flowers integrated into the farm property. Following the tour, we had a delightful lunch of rice and beans, chicken, a delicious salad and some of their own cheese. These experiences with OAT become the special moments of the trip. Zip Lining is exciting. Lunch with a local family is special.
After lunch, we headed out for another hiking adventure at the top of the trees where we would navigate a series of hanging bridges constructed at the tree top level of the Cloud Forest. It was another hike of ups and downs, but not as strenuous as the day before. I was able to cross three of the six bridges and was able to take photos of the tree tops and the various scenes at the top of the forest. There are actually 6 bridges on this walk. I only made half the journey. It was just wise for me to stop. I had seen the essence of this activity had to offer and I am very glad that I experienced it.
Before dinner, we had a glass of wine in Ann’s room where Ann, Sally, and I watched another fabulous sunset. The colors are awesome and provide truly unique compositions.
We all went out for dinner in town where I had a Costa Rican Fajita dish that was OK, but I only had three tortillas to fill. However, I ate most of it and returned for our final night in our mountaintop hotel. I had my laundry done yesterday, so I was ready for the remainder of the trip.
Wednesday, January 29, 2025
Today is my late wife’s Birthday. She has been gone for fourteen years. She is greatly missed today and everyday.
Today began with the beginning of a long drive to our next destination, Manuel Antonio National Park. We left the high mountains of Monteverde and drove back and forth down the mountain to sea level. Along the way, we stopped at a very nice souvenir place where I bought some shirts and a wooden dish with spoons. We continued our drive until we reached the “Crocodile River” where we took another boat ride to search out some crocodiles and many different species of birds. We found three crocs that people had named. Tyson was one of the Crocs. They just lie in the water and hardly move. However, no one jumped into pet one
As the boat meandered up and down the river, we spotted many birds, including pelicans, vultures, and colorful smaller birds. We saw many egrets and several blue herons. Andres pointed out these various creatures and the boat captain would steer the boat in that direction. This trip has been all about the wildlife of Costa Rica and this activity was no exception.
We ate lunch at the boat facility. The food here is good, but I am eating way too much. I fear getting on the scale when I get home. Lunch was followed with another two hours on the bus which did not help my aching legs. However, we finally made it to our next hotel in Manuel Antonio at 3:30. We are right on the beach in comfortable rooms overlooking a well landscaped garden, pool, and a beach on the Pacific Ocean. Ann, Sally, and I joined others from our group on the beach for Happy Hour, which has a two for one policy. I had my first gin and tonic in a long time. There were white faced monkeys swinging from the trees at the beach and occasionally tried to steal food. One adventurous monkey found a piece of pizza to devour.
It was a delightful way to relax after a long day on the bus. We ate dinner at the hotel restaurant. I had Mahi Mahi, which was a bit dry but tasted fine. We were back in our rooms by 8:30. Very tired, I crawled into bed, listen to a podcast for a brief time and went to sleep.
For a small country, about the size of West Virginia, Costa Rica has varied eco systems that caused us to move from cool weather to warm and humid in a matter of hours. It is a very impressive country. And as I have written several times, the people are friendly, helpful, and kind. Tomorrow, I hope to swim in the Pacific Ocean, at least for a short time. The beach at our hotel is more tropical than my beach in Mt. Pleasant and the waves appeared to be a little higher. It was good to be at sea level again.
Today is my late wife’s Birthday. She has been gone for fourteen years. She is greatly missed today and everyday.
Today began with the beginning of a long drive to our next destination, Manuel Antonio National Park. We left the high mountains of Monteverde and drove back and forth down the mountain to sea level. Along the way, we stopped at a very nice souvenir place where I bought some shirts and a wooden dish with spoons. We continued our drive until we reached the “Crocodile River” where we took another boat ride to search out some crocodiles and many different species of birds. We found three crocs that people had named. Tyson was one of the Crocs. They just lie in the water and hardly move. However, no one jumped into pet one
As the boat meandered up and down the river, we spotted many birds, including pelicans, vultures, and colorful smaller birds. We saw many egrets and several blue herons. Andres pointed out these various creatures and the boat captain would steer the boat in that direction. This trip has been all about the wildlife of Costa Rica and this activity was no exception.
We ate lunch at the boat facility. The food here is good, but I am eating way too much. I fear getting on the scale when I get home. Lunch was followed with another two hours on the bus which did not help my aching legs. However, we finally made it to our next hotel in Manuel Antonio at 3:30. We are right on the beach in comfortable rooms overlooking a well landscaped garden, pool, and a beach on the Pacific Ocean. Ann, Sally, and I joined others from our group on the beach for Happy Hour, which has a two for one policy. I had my first gin and tonic in a long time. There were white faced monkeys swinging from the trees at the beach and occasionally tried to steal food. One adventurous monkey found a piece of pizza to devour.
It was a delightful way to relax after a long day on the bus. We ate dinner at the hotel restaurant. I had Mahi Mahi, which was a bit dry but tasted fine. We were back in our rooms by 8:30. Very tired, I crawled into bed, listen to a podcast for a brief time and went to sleep.
For a small country, about the size of West Virginia, Costa Rica has varied eco systems that caused us to move from cool weather to warm and humid in a matter of hours. It is a very impressive country. And as I have written several times, the people are friendly, helpful, and kind. Tomorrow, I hope to swim in the Pacific Ocean, at least for a short time. The beach at our hotel is more tropical than my beach in Mt. Pleasant and the waves appeared to be a little higher. It was good to be at sea level again.
Thursday, January 30, 2025
My dear wife of almost 30 years passed away fourteen years ago on this day. I remember the day well, but most of all I remember the joy of those 30 years with a talented, beautiful, loving woman who was a great wife and friend.
After breakfast we drove the very shot distant to Manual Antonio National Park where we embarked on another 2.5 mile hike on mostly flat terrain. But there were enough hills to slow me down as I made this journey. On the first half of the walk, Andres stopped many times to have us view more birds and tell us about certain trees in the forest. I shot photos on the first half of our walk and I was particularly pleased with shots of some crabs we saw along the way. There are two beaches in the park and we stopped at the second one. Andres gave us an hour to swim in the pacific, which I did with Jerry, Ann, Sally, and Pat. There was a little drop off walking into the warm Pacific water, which made entry and exit a little awkward, but the water was warm, yet refreshing, and made the awkwardness worthwhile. It was a challenge to decide what to wear back for the remaining half of the walk, but I decided to walk back in my trunks and shirt, but change from my water shoes back to my hiking ones. That was wise, because the walk back was on gravel and up several hills, which made my walking slow and deliberate. I managed to keep up and this time i finished the complete hike. We ate lunch at the hotel restaurant and I spent the afternoon resting. Ann, Sally, and I are planning to meet at the beach at 5 PM for. Happy Hour followed by a pizza. Many of the group gathered; for a drink around a beach table before dinner. Tonight we split up into smaller groups for dinner, but most of us ate at the restaurant.
My dear wife of almost 30 years passed away fourteen years ago on this day. I remember the day well, but most of all I remember the joy of those 30 years with a talented, beautiful, loving woman who was a great wife and friend.
After breakfast we drove the very shot distant to Manual Antonio National Park where we embarked on another 2.5 mile hike on mostly flat terrain. But there were enough hills to slow me down as I made this journey. On the first half of the walk, Andres stopped many times to have us view more birds and tell us about certain trees in the forest. I shot photos on the first half of our walk and I was particularly pleased with shots of some crabs we saw along the way. There are two beaches in the park and we stopped at the second one. Andres gave us an hour to swim in the pacific, which I did with Jerry, Ann, Sally, and Pat. There was a little drop off walking into the warm Pacific water, which made entry and exit a little awkward, but the water was warm, yet refreshing, and made the awkwardness worthwhile. It was a challenge to decide what to wear back for the remaining half of the walk, but I decided to walk back in my trunks and shirt, but change from my water shoes back to my hiking ones. That was wise, because the walk back was on gravel and up several hills, which made my walking slow and deliberate. I managed to keep up and this time i finished the complete hike. We ate lunch at the hotel restaurant and I spent the afternoon resting. Ann, Sally, and I are planning to meet at the beach at 5 PM for. Happy Hour followed by a pizza. Many of the group gathered; for a drink around a beach table before dinner. Tonight we split up into smaller groups for dinner, but most of us ate at the restaurant.
Friday, January 31, 2025
We left the beach and traveled south along the coast line for about a half hour and stopped at a Spice Farm that produced vanilla, pepper, cinnamon, all spice, and cocoa. Our local guide gave us the history of the farm and then took us on a lovely tour of the farm, stopping often to explain a particular spice, having us try to guess the spice by smelling the leaves, and then we listen to an explanation of what the spice really was. Cinnamon was a surprise as was allspice. We walked beautiful rainforest vegetation and I was able to take some photos of flowers. We eventually passed a single cow grazing on a hillside pasture as we made our way to a look out point that overlooked the valley below. This was our rest stop and we enjoyed a cocoa drink with a drop of vanilla and several different ice creams that incorporated the spices from the farm. This was an organic farm that produces the real version of the spice. We often get artificial versions in our grocery stores. We walked back to our entry point on the tour and our local guide gave us a demonstration of how chocolate is produced from the cocoa bean. It was a very educational tour and I bought some vanilla, and small jars of black and white pepper pods.
We then headed toward our lunch spot located on a Pacific Ocean beach a bit farther south. It was a quaint little restaurant near the beach that served seafood as its primary dish. I had fish tacos made with Mahi Mahi. It was a large lunch and very tasty.
We then left for our afternoon bus ride up the mountains to our next destination, a birder resort some 7500 feet above sea level where it would be much cooler. To get there we had to traverse a mountain as high as 11000 feet. The Pan American Highway winds its way through these mountains and the driving can be slow going when you get behind large trucks. Our driver, Allen, showed tremendous patience as he waited for the rare moments in the trip when you could pass a large truck safely. Andres has done this trip many times and he is adept at judging our ETA taking into account the traffic difficulties through the mountains. The views were beautiful as we navigated one switch back after another. We reached the point we turned left off the main highway and started a downhill trek of about 3500 feet to our Resort Lodge at 7500 feet above sea level. It was a beautiful ride on a very narrow windy road to get to our destination. The Lodge dedicated to birders is beautifully laid out. Andres told us the incredible story of how the original dairy farm came into being in this valley and how they eventually moved towards the hotel business because of birder interest in the Quetzel Bird which is found often in this valley. It is a beautiful bird, one among many species that inhabit this valley. The lodge is adorned with beautiful flowers and mountain landscapes rising above the valley. It is a paradise for my camera.
Ann, Sally, and I met in the welcoming bar area for drink before dinner and to sit around the beautiful gas fire in the middle of the lounge. It was a nice way to relax after a long and treacherous bus ride. We ate dinner as a group in the restaurant. We have plentiful amounts of food throughout this trip. I chose to appetizers for my dinner, the onion soup, and bruschetta with smoked trout. Both were delicious and satisfied my limited need for more food. We three amigos gathered around the lounge fire for an after dinner drink and pleasant conversation with Jerry. Then to bed for me. This s a beautiful lodge with pleasant rooms. However, the firmness of the bed does not match the other beds in the other hotels we have stayed at. On the other hand, I am writing this journal sitting in a very comfortable chair at a workable round small table, one of my best writing areas of all the hotels. We have just two days of touring left before we get on our plane back home. It has been a wonderful trip to date.
We left the beach and traveled south along the coast line for about a half hour and stopped at a Spice Farm that produced vanilla, pepper, cinnamon, all spice, and cocoa. Our local guide gave us the history of the farm and then took us on a lovely tour of the farm, stopping often to explain a particular spice, having us try to guess the spice by smelling the leaves, and then we listen to an explanation of what the spice really was. Cinnamon was a surprise as was allspice. We walked beautiful rainforest vegetation and I was able to take some photos of flowers. We eventually passed a single cow grazing on a hillside pasture as we made our way to a look out point that overlooked the valley below. This was our rest stop and we enjoyed a cocoa drink with a drop of vanilla and several different ice creams that incorporated the spices from the farm. This was an organic farm that produces the real version of the spice. We often get artificial versions in our grocery stores. We walked back to our entry point on the tour and our local guide gave us a demonstration of how chocolate is produced from the cocoa bean. It was a very educational tour and I bought some vanilla, and small jars of black and white pepper pods.
We then headed toward our lunch spot located on a Pacific Ocean beach a bit farther south. It was a quaint little restaurant near the beach that served seafood as its primary dish. I had fish tacos made with Mahi Mahi. It was a large lunch and very tasty.
We then left for our afternoon bus ride up the mountains to our next destination, a birder resort some 7500 feet above sea level where it would be much cooler. To get there we had to traverse a mountain as high as 11000 feet. The Pan American Highway winds its way through these mountains and the driving can be slow going when you get behind large trucks. Our driver, Allen, showed tremendous patience as he waited for the rare moments in the trip when you could pass a large truck safely. Andres has done this trip many times and he is adept at judging our ETA taking into account the traffic difficulties through the mountains. The views were beautiful as we navigated one switch back after another. We reached the point we turned left off the main highway and started a downhill trek of about 3500 feet to our Resort Lodge at 7500 feet above sea level. It was a beautiful ride on a very narrow windy road to get to our destination. The Lodge dedicated to birders is beautifully laid out. Andres told us the incredible story of how the original dairy farm came into being in this valley and how they eventually moved towards the hotel business because of birder interest in the Quetzel Bird which is found often in this valley. It is a beautiful bird, one among many species that inhabit this valley. The lodge is adorned with beautiful flowers and mountain landscapes rising above the valley. It is a paradise for my camera.
Ann, Sally, and I met in the welcoming bar area for drink before dinner and to sit around the beautiful gas fire in the middle of the lounge. It was a nice way to relax after a long and treacherous bus ride. We ate dinner as a group in the restaurant. We have plentiful amounts of food throughout this trip. I chose to appetizers for my dinner, the onion soup, and bruschetta with smoked trout. Both were delicious and satisfied my limited need for more food. We three amigos gathered around the lounge fire for an after dinner drink and pleasant conversation with Jerry. Then to bed for me. This s a beautiful lodge with pleasant rooms. However, the firmness of the bed does not match the other beds in the other hotels we have stayed at. On the other hand, I am writing this journal sitting in a very comfortable chair at a workable round small table, one of my best writing areas of all the hotels. We have just two days of touring left before we get on our plane back home. It has been a wonderful trip to date.
Saturday, February 1, 2025
We did an early morning search Quetzel Bird, but were unsuccessful. However, I did get a nice photo of a Woodpecker and we saw some hummingbirds and a hawk high in the sky. I left this optional group early for breakfast because they were going to stand in one place for 30 minutes and wait for the famous green Quetzel Bird. Patience is often not a virtue for me.
After breakfast we all piled into four wheel jeeps to head up the mountain on land owned by the Resort to hike the forest, spot birds and identify vegetation. I chose to go only on the shorter walk, which, although it was raining steadily, was quite pleasant. The forest was quiet, the path easier than most we had traveled, and the distance to the viewing tower short. After some time viewing the scenery, three of us hopped on the jeep and headed back to home base. The experience of walking the high forest was worth it, but not too taxing on this old body.
I spent the rest of the morning deleting and processing some of the over 1000 photos that I have shot on this trip. I was able to reduce the amount by about 300 and in the meantime modified some photos into better compositions and presentation.
We ate lunch at 12:30 and then I took a solo walk down the Lodge driveway to look at the river and shoot some more photos. It was a pleasant walk on a cool mountain day in Costa Rica. It was quite a change from the very hot, humid climate on the beach Manuel Antonio National Park. I worked some more on organizing my photos and began this journal entry for today’s events. I wandered into the bar for a Gin and Tonic around mid afternoon. Ann joined me around 4:30 and later Sally. At 6, were treated to a video display of our time on the Zip Line and Hanging Bridges by our guide Andres, who is an expert photographer. We had lots of laughs and good memories of that special event and of the whole trip. We adjourned for a group dinner and I finished off the evening with a class of wine with Ann and Sally in Ann’s room.
We did an early morning search Quetzel Bird, but were unsuccessful. However, I did get a nice photo of a Woodpecker and we saw some hummingbirds and a hawk high in the sky. I left this optional group early for breakfast because they were going to stand in one place for 30 minutes and wait for the famous green Quetzel Bird. Patience is often not a virtue for me.
After breakfast we all piled into four wheel jeeps to head up the mountain on land owned by the Resort to hike the forest, spot birds and identify vegetation. I chose to go only on the shorter walk, which, although it was raining steadily, was quite pleasant. The forest was quiet, the path easier than most we had traveled, and the distance to the viewing tower short. After some time viewing the scenery, three of us hopped on the jeep and headed back to home base. The experience of walking the high forest was worth it, but not too taxing on this old body.
I spent the rest of the morning deleting and processing some of the over 1000 photos that I have shot on this trip. I was able to reduce the amount by about 300 and in the meantime modified some photos into better compositions and presentation.
We ate lunch at 12:30 and then I took a solo walk down the Lodge driveway to look at the river and shoot some more photos. It was a pleasant walk on a cool mountain day in Costa Rica. It was quite a change from the very hot, humid climate on the beach Manuel Antonio National Park. I worked some more on organizing my photos and began this journal entry for today’s events. I wandered into the bar for a Gin and Tonic around mid afternoon. Ann joined me around 4:30 and later Sally. At 6, were treated to a video display of our time on the Zip Line and Hanging Bridges by our guide Andres, who is an expert photographer. We had lots of laughs and good memories of that special event and of the whole trip. We adjourned for a group dinner and I finished off the evening with a class of wine with Ann and Sally in Ann’s room.
Sunday, February 2, 2025
After another slightly uncomfortable night in the not so firm bed in my room, we began our last full day on the trip. The hotel/lodge was wonderful and my room for the most part was very comfortable except for the bed. I woke at 5 and readied myself for an early morning trip some of our group and Andres to a farm up the road, know for is bird watching and in particular for the Quetzal Bird, the famous green Costa Rican bird, with a bright red breast and a long tail. We were treated to seeing two of them through Andres’ scope and even though I did not get a photo of the bird, I felt some satisfaction in seeing it in its full splendor. I also had the opportunity to shoot some interesting photos of the vegetation and oddly shaped trees. There was one avocado tree with ripe fruit that caught my attention. It may lend itself to an abstract representation after processing the photo. This whole valley is exceptionally beautiful and remote from the rest of the the hustle and bustle so evident in San Jose.
After breakfast, we started the long 9 mile trek up to the Pan American Highway where we would turn left toward San Jose. We had a stop in Cartago, the original Captal of Costa Rica prior to our arrival in San Jose. Andres gave us a history lesson on how Costa Rica came to abolish its Army in 1848 and some interesting stories about the politics since Costa Rica gained its independence. We got off the bus and visited the Central Park in Cartago with its recently sculpted statute of independence centered in the park. We then walked across the street to a very unfinished church structure that now housed a beautiful garden where people could stroll. The we went to the pride of the town, which is the Basilica where a Mass service was in process. It is an impressive structure dedicated to the memory of a small girl finding a statute of the baby Jesus and his mother on a rock that assumed mysterious powers, including the healing of the sick. People were there to touch the rock and collect some holy water that represented the healing aspects of the location. A service began while we were there and the Basilica was filled with parishioners.
We climbed back on the bus and headed to a restaurant with view of the vast valley. The food was good as usual. After lunch, we continued our journey to San Jose and and after a brief bus tour of some government and art buildings in the city we arrived back at the hotel where I started this journey on January 20. We still have the evening ahead and our farewell event. I began to think about my packing strategy for the trip home.
At 6, we met in the lobby to take the bus to dinner at a nice restaurant in the food district of San Jose. Andres gave us another of his photographic treats with a visual and musical rendition our group’s adventures over the past two weeks. We laughed a lot as we saw ourselves displayed along with the magnificent birds and other creatures of Costa Rica. It was a day by day summery of the joy felt by all of us on this trip. Andres handed out the Edmund Hillary pins to frequent travelers with OAT. We then enjoyed our last meal together as a touring group of friends who had bonded over the past two weeks. Those who said a few words had great praise for our guide, Andres, and our driver, Allen.
We enjoyed our meal and dessert and final conversations, jumped on the bus and headed back to the hotel to say final goodbyes and get a few hours sleep. Ann, Sally, and I shared a drink in the lounge and then retired to our rooms. It is always sad on this last day of a trip. The fourteen travelers have gotten to know each other well. We jelled as a group and basically enjoyed each others company. So, this last goodbye was not easy.
After another slightly uncomfortable night in the not so firm bed in my room, we began our last full day on the trip. The hotel/lodge was wonderful and my room for the most part was very comfortable except for the bed. I woke at 5 and readied myself for an early morning trip some of our group and Andres to a farm up the road, know for is bird watching and in particular for the Quetzal Bird, the famous green Costa Rican bird, with a bright red breast and a long tail. We were treated to seeing two of them through Andres’ scope and even though I did not get a photo of the bird, I felt some satisfaction in seeing it in its full splendor. I also had the opportunity to shoot some interesting photos of the vegetation and oddly shaped trees. There was one avocado tree with ripe fruit that caught my attention. It may lend itself to an abstract representation after processing the photo. This whole valley is exceptionally beautiful and remote from the rest of the the hustle and bustle so evident in San Jose.
After breakfast, we started the long 9 mile trek up to the Pan American Highway where we would turn left toward San Jose. We had a stop in Cartago, the original Captal of Costa Rica prior to our arrival in San Jose. Andres gave us a history lesson on how Costa Rica came to abolish its Army in 1848 and some interesting stories about the politics since Costa Rica gained its independence. We got off the bus and visited the Central Park in Cartago with its recently sculpted statute of independence centered in the park. We then walked across the street to a very unfinished church structure that now housed a beautiful garden where people could stroll. The we went to the pride of the town, which is the Basilica where a Mass service was in process. It is an impressive structure dedicated to the memory of a small girl finding a statute of the baby Jesus and his mother on a rock that assumed mysterious powers, including the healing of the sick. People were there to touch the rock and collect some holy water that represented the healing aspects of the location. A service began while we were there and the Basilica was filled with parishioners.
We climbed back on the bus and headed to a restaurant with view of the vast valley. The food was good as usual. After lunch, we continued our journey to San Jose and and after a brief bus tour of some government and art buildings in the city we arrived back at the hotel where I started this journey on January 20. We still have the evening ahead and our farewell event. I began to think about my packing strategy for the trip home.
At 6, we met in the lobby to take the bus to dinner at a nice restaurant in the food district of San Jose. Andres gave us another of his photographic treats with a visual and musical rendition our group’s adventures over the past two weeks. We laughed a lot as we saw ourselves displayed along with the magnificent birds and other creatures of Costa Rica. It was a day by day summery of the joy felt by all of us on this trip. Andres handed out the Edmund Hillary pins to frequent travelers with OAT. We then enjoyed our last meal together as a touring group of friends who had bonded over the past two weeks. Those who said a few words had great praise for our guide, Andres, and our driver, Allen.
We enjoyed our meal and dessert and final conversations, jumped on the bus and headed back to the hotel to say final goodbyes and get a few hours sleep. Ann, Sally, and I shared a drink in the lounge and then retired to our rooms. It is always sad on this last day of a trip. The fourteen travelers have gotten to know each other well. We jelled as a group and basically enjoyed each others company. So, this last goodbye was not easy.
Monday, February 3, 2025
I arose at 3 AM and prepared for the busy travel day. My airport driver picked me up at 4:45 and I was at the airport by a little after 5 AM. The check and baggage line moved slowly do to a thin staff presence, but I made it through and had no problem making the first leg of my flight, I was able to check my carryon for free, so I kept my back back with my electronics and meds. We took off early and 2 hours and 30 minutes later, we landed in Miami. I made it through customs, rechecked my bags, and went through a lengthy security line. I stopped at a grill for a beer and Mahi Mahi sandwich, which satisfied my hunger.
I was lulled into complacency during my five hour layover in Miami. They went and changed the gate in me from D48-D5 and I did not notice it until just a few minutes before boarding started. I started walking the distance, but soon hooked a ride with a very nice lady who wheels older people like me up and down the airport corridors. It seemed to take forever to get there and when I did, they were loading Group 9, so I went right on the plane. The plane was delayed about fifteen minutes taking off, but we are hoping to land sometime around 7:15, the scheduled arrival time. Uber is very expensive going the other way to home, so I am not sure what I will do when I land. I did get an Uber for half the price of the original offered and got home at a decent hour. It was one of my better experiences flying home from an OAT trip.
I have said at various times in this journal that Costa Rica is a special place with landforms, wildlife, and many interesting adventures. I truly enjoyed this trip. Our guide Andres was special and added to the beauty of the trip. I have so many photos to add to this site, that it will be sometime before I get it all organized for posting. I apologize, but the task is monumental. I hope that I can be very selective in choosing my photos to. demonstrate the beauty of what saw and give a richness to the journal text.
I arose at 3 AM and prepared for the busy travel day. My airport driver picked me up at 4:45 and I was at the airport by a little after 5 AM. The check and baggage line moved slowly do to a thin staff presence, but I made it through and had no problem making the first leg of my flight, I was able to check my carryon for free, so I kept my back back with my electronics and meds. We took off early and 2 hours and 30 minutes later, we landed in Miami. I made it through customs, rechecked my bags, and went through a lengthy security line. I stopped at a grill for a beer and Mahi Mahi sandwich, which satisfied my hunger.
I was lulled into complacency during my five hour layover in Miami. They went and changed the gate in me from D48-D5 and I did not notice it until just a few minutes before boarding started. I started walking the distance, but soon hooked a ride with a very nice lady who wheels older people like me up and down the airport corridors. It seemed to take forever to get there and when I did, they were loading Group 9, so I went right on the plane. The plane was delayed about fifteen minutes taking off, but we are hoping to land sometime around 7:15, the scheduled arrival time. Uber is very expensive going the other way to home, so I am not sure what I will do when I land. I did get an Uber for half the price of the original offered and got home at a decent hour. It was one of my better experiences flying home from an OAT trip.
I have said at various times in this journal that Costa Rica is a special place with landforms, wildlife, and many interesting adventures. I truly enjoyed this trip. Our guide Andres was special and added to the beauty of the trip. I have so many photos to add to this site, that it will be sometime before I get it all organized for posting. I apologize, but the task is monumental. I hope that I can be very selective in choosing my photos to. demonstrate the beauty of what saw and give a richness to the journal text.
