Tom’s Family Adventure Begins
We chose Costa Rica for our family vacation. With a combination of nature, culture and adventure, it served to intrigue the entire family’s specific desires for the ultimate destination getaway. Our teens were particularly looking forward to the novelty of ziplining above the rainforest canopy. My wife was anticipating the cultural experience, as influences from USA, Mexico and Central American countries, blend together to make a dynamic festive atmosphere in the rural villages. My interests were in nature, as Costa Rica has unique animals and plant life unequaled in this hemisphere.
After a slightly delayed flight, we arrived in the dark to our AirBNB. It was a delightful accomodation with two bedrooms, two bathrooms, a small living room, dining room, and full kitchen. Just right for our family of four. Our first task was to boil water and make coffee, to prep for the following day of touring.
Liberia Town
The next day was a four hour scenic bus ride to Liberia to celebrate the Guanacaste day festivities. Costa Rica is a hilly country. Deep ravines were on either side of the bus. The town square was beautiful and full of life. We made arrangements for a rental car and checked into our hotel, Villa Hermosa. The owner, Heidi, was very welcoming.
A short walk to town, and for $20, we all had chicken dinners. The open air restaurant had a bar and people dancing. This is what I love about the Central American countries, so full of life and joy! We journeyed home early that evening to prep for our drive to Rincon National Park the next day. We had not planned on renting a car, but the bus tour prices were twice what the guide books and online research had indicated, making the jeep rental a great value.
Rincon National Park
Up early for a traditional breakfast of rice, beans, plantains, eggs and tortillas, we were happy with the quality of the local food. Upon arrival, the park had an entrance fee of $15 per person. We had a challenging hike to a waterfall. Along the way we spotted and heard noisy howler monkeys.
Use the link above to listen to their sounds, it is scary stuff! After enjoying our lunch at the waterfall, the weather was taking a turn for the worse and we decided to return to the car. The trail became quite slippery with the wind and rain and my daughter fell twice.
San Rosa National Park
The next day’s adventure was the beach at San Rosa National Park. A treacherous 11 km road lead us to the beach. We were grateful for our jeep, as a sedan would not have made it. The ranger at the beach instructed us to beware of rip tides and not go in over our waist. On land, near the beach, were spider monkeys and two foot long iguanas. Nature surrounded us and I was at peace.
