Me and My Monkey in Costa Rica
We were told about the monkeys when we checked into to the Hyatt’s Andaz Peninsula Papagayo Resort, a delightful, all natural spot nestled on Culebra Bay on the Pacific Coast of Costa Rica. There were two types in evidence — the capuchins and howler monkeys — and, instead of being alarmed to hear the latter earning their name at night, it was suggested we...
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It’s Easy Being Green On Costa Rica’s Osa Peninsula
Forget Kermit's self-doubts. Kids and adults will discover how much fun they can have within an incredibly well sustained biosphere on the Osa Peninsula.Named one of the most biologically intense places on the earth by National Geographic magazine, the Osa Peninsula of Costa Rica is THE place to see throngs of animals and birds, including many rare and endangered species. In...
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Costa Rica’s Lapa Rios: River Of Scarlet Macaws
If eco-lodge makes you think "rustic," read on about a high-end place that offers unique accommodations, gourmet meals, attentive staff and spa treatments on the remote Osa Peninsula of Costa Rica.Lapa Rios, loosely translated as "River of Scarlet Macaws," is a luxury eco-resort situated in a private 1,000-acre nature reserve. Located...
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Studying abroad in high school
For those of you looking for a study abroad program for your teen, go with SPI Study Abroad:Both of my kids have studied abroad with SPI (in Costa Rica and in Italy) and loved it. I felt very comfortable with the level of supervision...
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Family Fun In Guanacaste Costa Rica
Guanacaste, on Costa Rica’s Pacific Coast, is a mix of beautiful beaches, lush rainforest and fascinating fauna. Costa Rica’s rich biodiversity, strong infrastructure and stable political situation make this country a popular destination for families who wish to visit Central America. This peaceful nation abolished its army permanently in 1949 and even...
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Chapter 6 (of 11): The Osa Peninsula
"This is worse than bland," declared Paddy in his London accent. "It tastes like wet socks." He passed the cup of watered oatmeal to Lochy. "It`s energy," replied Lochy with a blunt Scottish twang. He slurped a dripping spoonful into his mouth. "If you concentrate really hard, you can taste the milk and sugar," I suggested....
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Sol Abroad Spanish Language Immersion for Teens
This past summer my sixteen–year-old daughter chose to study Spanish abroad. She had been studying Spanish since middle school and realized that in order to achieve a true level of fluency, she needed to immerse herself in an all-Spanish speaking environment.A representative from Sol Abroad had visited her high school, and she was...
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Soft Adventures in Costa Rica
Costa Rica's land activities provide plenty of "soft" adventures for vacationing families with less active -- or more fearful -- loved ones.Costa Rica's land activities provide plenty of "soft" adventures for vacationing families with less active -- or more fearful -- loved ones. Nature has blessed Costa Rica with an ecosystem of scenic beauty and variety, from...
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Costa Rica’s Drake Bay Wilderness
In search of adventure, s single father and two teens explore Costa Rica. Over the past decade, Costa Rica has emerged as the standout eco-adventure destination in the Americas. From its rugged, jungle and beach-lined Pacific coastline to its relaxed, funky Caribbean coast; from active volcanoes to mist-steeped cloud forests, to mile after mile of untouched virgin jungle ripe for exploration,...
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Costa Rica’s Capital of San Jose
The area around Costa Rica's capital is rich with cultural history and natural wonder. To discover some key attractions in San Jose and beyond, read on. This sprawling low-rise metropolitan area has close to one million residents and serves as the hub of Costa Rica. Although it may not be the most picturesque of this country's many lush and naturally beautiful destinations, it...
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