Adventures in Costa Rica

We recently returned from an incredible week in Costa Rica with Amy and Brian. We saw howler and spider monkeys, a two-toed sloth, wild boar, iguanas, lizards, toucans, parrots, and a random pot-bellied pig. More photos to come on FB.

monkey hanging out

 two-toed sloth

 can you spot the monkey?

We spent the first half of the week in Arenal and stayed at Silencio del Campo. It was gorgeous! We had a great view of Arenal volcano, enjoyed soaking in the hot springs and touring the jungle. We hiked to La Fortuna waterfall and went swimming, which was so much fun.

View of Arenal Volcano from our villa

We also went on a "volcano hike" that was more of a jungle hike, but very beautiful nonetheless. Afterwards, we spent hours soaking in Baldi Hot Springs, riding the waterslides and enjoying the swim up bar. I had intended on brushing up on my Spanish prior to our trip, but with finals for school, it didn't quite happen. I was pleasantly surprised that a good amount of Spanish came back to me during the course of our trip. Everyone in Costa Rica was so nice and accommodating. I still need to get that Spanish class scheduled, though.

Next, we headed to Tamarindo for some beach time. We had a great time enjoying the beach, water and fresh seafood.

 Miami Vices - the official vacation cocktail

5-26-11 Celebrating our 4-year wedding anniversary

Carter and I celebrated our 4-year wedding anniversary. We planned on taking surf lessons but got rained out. So we played Scrabble instead. Amy and Brian were so sweet to make dinner so special for us :) Brian and I took a yoga class one morning and discovered our instructor was also a chiropractor, karate instructor and latin dance instructor. Getting my back aligned, neck and toes cracked were an added bonus. One of the highlights of our trip was a day trip on a catamaran. On any other snorkel/boat trip, they make you wear life jackets and have to get off the boat via stairs. Not in Costa Rica. You can jump off the boat and they just toss you a couple of beers and a noodle. Jumping off the boat was definitely one of the highlights for all of us.

 fresh red snapper

 i'm on a boat!

Overall, it was a phenomenal week and we had the best time. Costa Rica is a BEAUTIFUL country and I feel like we barely scratched the surface of all there is to do. I hope we go back again soon!