My Exotic Escape to Costa Rica: A Story of Adventure, Courage, and Relaxation

With travel comes a world of experiences, and for many, it is a journey filled with courage and inspiration. For Vanex, this dream was sparked by the adventurous spirit of his late uncle, who unexpectedly passed away at just 20 years old. Despite his fear of flying, Vanex's desire to explore the world grew stronger. After a recent trip to Jamaica, Costa Rica emerged as his next dream destination. Invited by a vibrant group known as The Amazings, Vanex decided it was time to face his flying fears and embark on this exciting adventure.

The Journey Begins

In 2022, with a whirlwind of emotions, Vanex boarded an American Airlines flight from Los Angeles International Airport (LAX). His excitement quickly turned to frustration when delays led him to miss his connecting flight in New York City. As a result, he and his companions had to wait until the following day to continue their journey. This setback caused them to lose the first day of their eagerly awaited vacation and excursions, but Vanex's spirits remained high, motivated by the adventures that lay ahead.

Arrival in Costa Rica

After an exhausting journey, they arrived at Liberia Airport, surrounded by the lush landscapes of Costa Rica. Their accommodation, Dreams Las Mareas, was a 90-minute drive away from the airport, positioned near the Nicaraguan border and close to stunning waterfronts. The anticipation of relaxation and adventure filled the air as they barely had time to settle into their all-inclusive resort. Ready for exploration, without any rest, they headed straight into their first excursion.

First Day Excursion: Nicaragua Awaits

Eager to dive into their adventure, the group set off to Nicaragua on their first day. They drove to the border, where clearing customs became part of the experience. Once across the border, they hopped into a local vehicle that would take them deeper into the treasures of Nicaragua. The first stop was a quaint breakfast spot in Rivas, where the local cuisine welcomed them with open arms. Local dishes provided a flavorful introduction to Nicaraguan traditions and inspired Vanex to appreciate regional flavors even more.

Lake Nicaragua Boat Tour

Next, Vanex and his friends enjoyed a boat tour on Lake Nicaragua. This experience stood out as a highlight for Vanex, especially when he spotted a monkey sanctuary. Watching the playful monkeys swing from the trees made for an enchanting experience. Fun fact: Lake Nicaragua is one of the largest lakes in Central America, spanning over 100 square miles.

Exploring Grenada

After the boat tour, the group made their way to Parque Central de Grenada, the vibrant town square. They visited a local chocolate factory where they participated in a chocolate-making class. Vanex was reluctant but happy to be chosen as one of two participants to demonstrate the crafting process. The class included a fun, unique tradition, a chocolate dance, which provided laughter and relief from the tropical heat.

The Active Volcano Adventure

Next on the agenda was a visit to Parque Nacional Volcán Masaya, an active volcano. The sight of billowing smoke left everyone in awe, reminding them of the earth’s raw power. Vanex snapped photos, capturing the heat and drama of the moment, despite being told the volcano could erupt unexpectedly.

Lunch and Lake Catarina

After the volcano, the group enjoyed a hearty lunch before heading to Lake Catarina. This peaceful spot provided the perfect backdrop to unwind and reflect on their action-packed day. Nearby, quaint shops offered local crafts and souvenirs, allowing Vanex to take a piece of Nicaragua home with him.

Crossing Back to Costa Rica

With newfound memories from Nicaragua, the group made their way back to Costa Rica, going through customs once again. Crossing between two countries added to the overall excitement of the journey. Vanex felt a strong sense of accomplishment for facing his fears and fully embracing the adventure.

Journey Into the Rainforest

The next day, they set out on an exciting adventure to the lush and vibrant Rainforest. As they entered this tropical paradise, they were immediately enveloped by the rich sounds of nature, from the gentle rustling of leaves to the melodic calls of various birds. Throughout their exploration, they encountered a fascinating array of wildlife, including agile bats fluttering overhead, slow-moving sloths lazily hanging from branches, and a dazzling assortment of exotic birds, each showcasing their vibrant plumage and unique songs. The beauty of the rainforest was truly breathtaking, with its dense canopy filtering sunlight into soft, dappled patterns on the forest floor.

One of the most scenic highlights of their journey was the magnificent waterfalls cascading down rocky cliffs, creating a mesmerizing display of sparkling water. The sound of the rushing water was both calming and invigorating, and they took a moment to appreciate the stunning scenery, with rainbows forming in the mist that rose from the falls. They spent the entire day immersed in the wonders of the rainforest, hiking along winding trails, discovering hidden nooks filled with vibrant flora, and capturing countless photographs to remember this unforgettable experience. As they wandered deeper into the jungle, they felt a profound connection to nature, marveling at the intricate ecosystems that thrived around them.

The remaining days of their trip were spent at the luxurious resort, where they opted for a more leisurely pace. Here, they indulged in the soothing ambiance of their surroundings, lounging by the pool and soaking up the sun. The resort was teeming with life, and one of the most delightful surprises was the sight of playful monkeys that frequented the area. These curious creatures would often come surprisingly close, their playful antics drawing laughter from the guests. However, despite the temptation to interact with them, many visitors were cautioned against feeding the monkeys, as it could disrupt their natural behavior and well-being. Nonetheless, some guests, ignoring the advice, would offer them snacks, which only encouraged the monkeys to come closer, creating a lively atmosphere filled with both excitement and concern for the wildlife.

The Growth Journey

Vanex's trip to Costa Rica was more than just breathtaking landscapes and exciting excursions; it was a transformative journey of personal growth and courage. Inspired by his uncle's adventurous spirit, he faced his fear of flying and embraced the unknown. From Nicaragua's vibrant culture to Costa Rica's breathtaking views, every experience was a reminder of the immense value of stepping out of one's comfort zone.

As he returned home, Vanex carried with him not just colorful souvenirs but memories that would last a lifetime. His journey serves as a reminder that travel is about more than just reaching your destination; it's about the experiences, connections, and growth that come along the way. Vanex says he really enjoyed his time in Costa Rica and would go back at a moment's notice, but would plan rest days between excursions next time.

So, if you are feeling inspired to travel, take that leap of faith. You never know what extraordinary adventures might await you!