Jan 10, 2013

Coasting Through Costa Rica

                               
                                           Adrianna with Costa Rican Children







C O S T A   R I C A

Coffee plantations, jungles, rainforests, surfing, volcanos, white water rafting are just some of the things associated with Costa Rica. Because of it's great weather, outdoor activities, delicious food, friendly people and affordable prices Costa Rica now attracts everyone from honeymooners to students on spring break.

From yoga reterats to resorts, jungle huts to camping Costa Rica's diversity fits the needs of traverlers to the fullest. Most people fly into San Jose the hub of  Costa Rica and from there the world of Costa Rica awaits those seeking a vacation they'll long remember.

Start your trip in Costa Rica with a cup of coffee. Having toured some of the coffee plantations in Costa Rica I learned a lot about how coffee beans are grown and the work involved in producing one of the world's most popular drinks. Costa Ricans enjoy their coffee and so do visitors who find that a day just isn't complete without a cup or two of three of Costa Rican coffee.

Whether you wish to just vacation in one region of Costa Rica or tour the whole country you'll fall in love with Costa Rica and its people.


THE REGIONS OF COSTA RICA:

1) The Central Valley has one of the best rivers in Central America called the "Pacuara River" and it has fantastic rapids for rafting. The Central Valley's altitude and mineral rich soil makes it one of the most popular places to grow coffee and a tour of a coffee plantation is a must when visiting this region of Costa Rica.

2) The Northern Plains has Lake Arenal (one of the best lakes to windsurf) in the world. This area also has the third most active volcano in the world called Arenal Volcano. With 25,000 acres Cano Negro National Wildlife is where the crocodiles, jaguars, turtles, birds, and monkeys hang out.

3) The North Pacific has beaches galore, fishes villages, and the best surfing in Costa Rica. This region also has many sea turtle nests along the beach and from July-January they often appear during the evening hours.

4) The South Pacific is the place to go for hiking, kayaking and snorkeling.. Tent camping or staying at an eco lodge will bring you in tune with nature. A few days in Corcovado National Park is an experience of a lifetime. This park contains lush rain forests, abundant wildlife, brilliant hiking, and a remote feeling. Be sure to say hello to the monkeys.

5) The Caribbean region doesn't contain aqua colored still waters but you'll still hear the sounds of calypso and reggae music and eat fresh seafood with rice, beans, and coconut milk. This region has  devoted surfers, New Age hippies, and people who like to party. Tortuguero National Park is a popular place to visit but because of its remotness the only way to really enjoy it is by booking a tour package which includes guided tours, lodging, transportation and meals.

Costa Rica is an eco friendly country. The locals take an active role in preserving the beautiful and natural environment that makes Costa Rica so special.

While in Costa Rica it's a good idea to know some Spanish since Spanish is the offical language of Costa Rica.

Enjoy coasting your way through Costa Rica!!!             

Baked Plantains: (A little taste of Costa Rica)

Take three fresh plantains and cut the ends then peel the plantains. Cut plantains into 1/2 inch slices.
Arrange the plantains on an oiled baking sheet. Bake at 450 degrees for 10-15 minutes!
Be sure to put a decent amount of oil on the baking pan. Plantains should be golden brown when fully baked.

Melon Fresco (Drink)

Peel and take out out the seeds of a whole fresh cantaloupe. Puree the cantaloupe in a blender with 1 cup of cold water, 2 tablespoons of lime juice, and 1 tablespoon of sugar. Blend well!

Serves 4



Disfrutar (Enjoy)


                                                                                    
Speaking a bit of Spanish in Costa Rica

Hallo-Hello
Adios-Good Bye
Gracias-Thank You
Coma Estas (informal) How are you?
Coma Esta (formal) How are you?
Par Favor-Please
Cafe-Coffee                                                                   
Viajar-to travel

Adrianna (Travel World)              

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