Arrival in Paradise

The moment I stepped off the plane in San Jose, Costa Rica, I felt the familiar rush of excitement that comes with the promise of new adventures. My wife and I were greeted by Sarah and Greivin, the masterminds behind Travel Tropical Tours, and David, our driver for the week. Their warm smiles and easygoing nature set the tone for what would be an unforgettable journey.

Our first stop was the Cloud Forest region of Monteverde, a place that seemed to be plucked straight from a dream. We checked into the Hotel Belmar, a charming haven nestled amidst the lush greenery. The hotel’s farm-to-table approach to dining was a revelation. Each meal was a symphony of flavors, with ingredients harvested fresh from their gardens. As a surfer who’s spent years chasing waves and sampling local cuisines, I was blown away by the culinary artistry on display.

Dining Among the Treetops

One of the standout experiences in Monteverde was the Tree Top Dining Experience at San Lucas. Picture this: a nine-course meal served in a glass-enclosed dining room, suspended among the treetops. The views were as breathtaking as the food itself. Each course was a masterpiece, a delicate balance of flavors and textures that left us in awe. It was a once-in-a-lifetime dining experience that rivaled the thrill of catching the perfect wave.

From Monteverde, we journeyed to the Arenal rainforest region, where we stayed at the Tabacon Hot Springs Resort. The hot springs were a soothing balm for our travel-weary bodies, and the spa treatments were pure bliss. We even took a cooking class at El Fogon de Chela, where we learned to make empanadas that were as satisfying as a day spent surfing the perfect break.

Embracing Nature’s Wonders

Our tour was a celebration of Costa Rica’s natural beauty. We explored Sloth Park, traversed the Hanging Bridges, and embarked on a Wildlife River Cruise. Each excursion was meticulously planned by Sarah and Greivin, whose passion for their country’s flora and fauna was infectious. Greivin’s enthusiasm was reminiscent of the joy I feel when discovering a new surf spot.

The Arenal Hike and Night Walk in the jungle were highlights, offering glimpses of the vibrant ecosystem that thrives in the rainforest. As someone who spends much of his life in the ocean, it was a refreshing change to immerse myself in the wonders of the forest.

Our journey concluded with a visit to the Jaguar Rescue Center and a day spent lounging on the beaches of Cocles. The freedom to choose our own beach adventures was a nod to the nomadic lifestyle my wife and I cherish. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a first-time visitor, Costa Rica’s blend of wildlife, parks, and comfort is a siren call that’s impossible to resist. Costa Rica Adventure