A TROPICAL ADVENTURE IN COSTA RICA
Whether exploring hillyplaces like Monteverde’s cloud forests or relaxing in hot springs near Arenal Volcano, Costa Rica offers endless thrills. Zip-line through jungle canopies, surf the Pacific waves, and immerse yourself in this paradise’s rich biodiversity and Pura Vida spirit.
Costa Rica Travel Blog – Winter sun is calling
Stop for a moment and define tropical. My long-standing tendency to return to smoothies to tackle life’s little challenges makes me think of fruits like pineapple, coconut, and more. Then that big burning thing appears in the sky, a distant memory in the middle of a Scottish winter. It’s a given. A beach seems appropriate, or maybe a rainforest. Probably a scene from Lost. Before he somehow becomes mentally disturbed. There’s also a “totally tropical flavor, man” on the horizon. Remember these things? The Caribbean, the Pacific Ocean, stunning sunsets, dazzling wildlife… Costa Rica has it all.
It’s not a natural image for Scots, but most of us will think about it with sadness at some point. I think Costa Rica itself is tropical. Bringing sweetness to the palate, making the locals smile at every turn and simply showcasing the wonders of nature, this is the land just outside the Attenborough Docks. Look closely at these pictures, I bet you don’t hear him say that.
The two weeks I spent in this paradise took me to San Jose, Arenal, Monteverdi and Manuel Antonio National Park. Chosen to offer relaxation, hiking, adventure and nature, this itinerary includes the tours that travelers love and showcases Costa Rica at its most dramatic.
Arenal
The country’s most active volcano is located here. I have said so much to think about. Although Arenal Volcano is mostly shrouded in mist, the awe-inspiring view of the object towering over the village of La Fortuna is often breathtaking. Arenal is also famous for its many hot springs and the dramatic La Fortuna waterfall. Hiking and horseback riding are possible around the volcano, as well as rainforest activities ranging from guided walks to zip-lining. Although this is not a function of the kilt, the latter will serve as one of the highlights of life.
Whether you go solo or in the company of a local expert, a peaceful walk in the woods is something I’ve been thinking about since I spent my days reading the Tintin books as a child. I tiptoe across the forest floor, constantly alert (and in my case on the verge of a cardiac event due to my fear of slippery reptiles), all senses working at a speed I’ve never known them to do before. Don’t be stronger than this. Dense, luscious forest stretching for miles in every direction, the audible sound of monkeys frolicking in the foliage and the rustling of leaves create a spontaneous touch to the camera and an overwhelming sense of distance from conventional 21st century life.
Snakes, tarantulas, toucans and more can be seen in these areas, and the exotic microclimate is a source of outdoor energy with everything from foliage walks to hot spring relaxation. I was talking to a local guide who had found a skunk in his yard that week, and I asked him – in the best way I could – how do you kill a skunk? Anyway, snake. Cause a confused reaction. — Of course you take his head with a sickle. “Oh sure,” Scott snapped, suddenly feeling sick. Yeah, well, no problem, big man.
Monteverde
Home to the famous Cloud Forest Reserve, thanks to its high-altitude geography, Monteverde is the perfect ally of Arenal for lovers of forest hiking and nature exploration. It is a deliberate challenge to reach the center of the village, which is a small, bustling settlement with excellent accommodation in a very rural setting.
I give the nod to Monteverde Lodge & Gardens because you’d be hard-pressed to find a quieter, more luxurious place to stay. Full marks in every category, and with an adjacent eco-reserve (which includes a two-hour jungle trek where you’re unlikely to see another human being), it’s the perfect way to have this kind of travelling experience with Punefirst travel blog. The only sounds are the sounds of your breathing and the hum of insects that spread everywhere.
