My exploration of Costa Rica began in San Jose, located in the central valley and surrounded by magical natural wonders. As the capital city it is the center of culture. Shopping, nightlife, museums, galleries and theaters are yours to explore. Costa Rica is a living natural laboratory of flora and fauna, 25% of the country is protected under a system of National Parks, Biological Reserves, Wildlife Refuges, Forest Reserves and Protected Zones.

My next stop was Monteverde, an area known throughout the world for its conservation efforts and accomplishments. Distinguished by its cool climate, misty cloud forests and countless species of butterflies. The Quetzal, considered by many bird experts to be the most beautiful bird of Latin America, is one of the most important inhabitants. Our guide in the reserve advised us he hadn't seen one for months...our group saw 3 that day! Monteverde is a haven of rural art and culture influenced by a Quaker community that calls the area home. The reserve itself is home to more than 2500 plants and 400 bird species. One of the most popular activities is the Sky Trek, a system of trails, suspension bridges and canopy ziplines. It will boost your adrenaline and will make you lose track of time!

The next day we continued to the Guanacaste area, located in the Northern Pacific Coast of Costa Rica. The region is known for beautiful sunny days, long beaches and expansive cattle ranches. Tourist activities include horseback riding, hiking, biking, bird watching, diving and fishing. The principal city of the area is Liberia, where the second international airport in Costa Rica is located. My stay was in Tamarindo where there is a variety of hotel and lodging options for any budget, as well as exceptional selections of cuisine. The bay has world-class sport fishing, surfing and golf.

After leaving Tamarindo and traversing the large Nicoya Peninsula I arrived in Quepos, the town of choice for travelers exploring Manuel Antonio National Park. One of the most beautiful and well known parks in the country has a rainy tropical climate that favors unique conditions.

I returned to San Jose for my flight home.