Costa Rica
Blog 7: Hot Springs, Rare Birds, and a Big Volcano
17/05/25 13:11
Background
Since our arrival in Costa Rica, we have taken several nearby trips, including a few overnights, but none over 80 miles from our home in Atenas. However, when two good friends, Jamers and Nike, were going to visit, we decided to broaden our scope. Hence, we did a little research and settled on three locations that sounded like fun.
(Note that Nike took some excellent photos on our excursion. Photos you see with an asterisk are ones she shot.)
Arrive SJO
Jamers and Nike both arrived on the same plane a little early with little hassle so we picked them up off the street in record time. Arriving at home in the late afternoon, we had time to relax, tell old stories, and go out to one of the many pizza joints in town.
(* Above Photo by Nike)
Arenal
The next morning, we loaded up our car to drop the Pups off at the sitters. It was in the opposite direction of our destination, adding 30 minutes to our four-hour trip (56 miles). Jan took the ups and downs and arounds like the CR pro she is.
We stayed at Hotel Arenal Paraíso Resort & Spa, with our room facing the Arenal Volcano, just a 7-iron shot away (well, maybe a little further—it is a big volcano). We spent the late afternoon and early evening hanging at the hotel pool.
(* Above Photo by Nike)
After looking at a number of options, we decided on the “easy” 2.5-mile, hour-long hanging bridges hike. Our chatty tour guide (nice, friendly, good English) picked us up in a van and lead us up and around the hanging bridges, pointing out all the flora and fauna we came across. Note that it was a very enjoyable trip, but easy—not so much.
That evening we took advantage of the hot springs on the hotel property, then rested up for our next adventure.
Monteverde
The trip to Montverde was quite pretty, but the roads left much to be desired—you can understand that in bad weather, it is 4-wheel-drive-only territory.
We stayed at the Monteverde Country Lodge, a quaint, old hotel. Across the street was a good restaurant, complete with a guest-checking dog and a fine IPA.
Monteverde has the reputation as one of the best birding destinations on the planet. Lots of beautiful birds, but the most sought after is the resplendent questzal. So, of course, we hoped we’d see one, though the odds were low.
Curi-Chanca Reserve
The first morning, we hiked the Curi-Chanca Reserve. A quiet, very pleasant hike, but not a lot of sightings.
(* Above Photo by Nike)
(* Above Photo by Nike)
Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Reserve
Of all the excellent birding locations in the Monteverde area, the Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Reserve is the most well-known and the most popular. When we were there, it was busy but not as crowded as it is in the busy season.
Nike scouted it out the afternoon of our Curi-Chanca Reserve walk as the rest of us chilled. She came back gung-ho and talked all of us into changing our plan for zip-lining in order to visit the Cloud Forest the next morning.
It was warm and humid, and the trails were steep and slick in places, so our pace was a little slow. We attempted to find the location of the last resplendent questzal sighting, but no luck. So, we resigned ourself to lick our wounds and count our blessings. A coati joined us for about 10 minutes on the trail down.
Further on our way, I came across two excited women. Seeing me, they pointed up to a branch. BINGO! It was a questzal that was soon joined by others. Nike came up and we spent some time trying to photograph these beauties.
(* Above Video by Nike)
After seeing “THE BIRDS," a big thumbs up as Niki took a selfie.
(* Above Photo by Nike)
Manual Antonio National Park
After we checked in to our hotel, the Jungle Beach, we were told that there was no water there or anywhere in the vicinity, and no one knew when the spigots would be turned on. Going without water until the next morning wasn’t pleasant, but the possibility of no water for two days seemed like a bad situation. Hence, we decided to cut our trip short by one day.
The next morning, Jan and Jamers stayed at the hotel for the morning while Niki and I went to Manual Antonio National Park. Manual Antonio was Costa Rica’s first national park, its smallest national park, and its most crowded national park (you have to sign up online and only a limited number get let in). Is it worth it? This picture of the beach is persuading.
We saw a few birds, including this good-looking slaty-tailed trogon.
We also saw a two-toed sloth, but it was a neck-stretcher to see it.
Back Home
Noonish, we took the trip back to our home in Atenas. The next day was our last time together, so once again, we made a road trip—this time a short drive.
Rescate Wildlife Rescue Center Costa Rica
https://rescatewildlife.org/tickets-tours/
This is a first-class rescue center where the animals come first.
(* Above Photo by Nike)
For the most part, that ended our adventure—until next time.
IS THAT IT? NO! THERE IS MORE EXCITEMENT!
Starting immediately, you can view world-class old trucks! For 15 years, Alex and Jan traveled the Southwest part of the US shooting old trucks. Visit my gallery on Fine Art America to take a look. https://fineartamerica.com/profiles/32-james-alexander
Pura Vida!
Since our arrival in Costa Rica, we have taken several nearby trips, including a few overnights, but none over 80 miles from our home in Atenas. However, when two good friends, Jamers and Nike, were going to visit, we decided to broaden our scope. Hence, we did a little research and settled on three locations that sounded like fun.
(Note that Nike took some excellent photos on our excursion. Photos you see with an asterisk are ones she shot.)
Arrive SJO
Jamers and Nike both arrived on the same plane a little early with little hassle so we picked them up off the street in record time. Arriving at home in the late afternoon, we had time to relax, tell old stories, and go out to one of the many pizza joints in town.
(* Above Photo by Nike)
Arenal
The next morning, we loaded up our car to drop the Pups off at the sitters. It was in the opposite direction of our destination, adding 30 minutes to our four-hour trip (56 miles). Jan took the ups and downs and arounds like the CR pro she is.
We stayed at Hotel Arenal Paraíso Resort & Spa, with our room facing the Arenal Volcano, just a 7-iron shot away (well, maybe a little further—it is a big volcano). We spent the late afternoon and early evening hanging at the hotel pool.
(* Above Photo by Nike)
After looking at a number of options, we decided on the “easy” 2.5-mile, hour-long hanging bridges hike. Our chatty tour guide (nice, friendly, good English) picked us up in a van and lead us up and around the hanging bridges, pointing out all the flora and fauna we came across. Note that it was a very enjoyable trip, but easy—not so much.
That evening we took advantage of the hot springs on the hotel property, then rested up for our next adventure.
Monteverde
The trip to Montverde was quite pretty, but the roads left much to be desired—you can understand that in bad weather, it is 4-wheel-drive-only territory.
We stayed at the Monteverde Country Lodge, a quaint, old hotel. Across the street was a good restaurant, complete with a guest-checking dog and a fine IPA.
Monteverde has the reputation as one of the best birding destinations on the planet. Lots of beautiful birds, but the most sought after is the resplendent questzal. So, of course, we hoped we’d see one, though the odds were low.
Curi-Chanca Reserve
The first morning, we hiked the Curi-Chanca Reserve. A quiet, very pleasant hike, but not a lot of sightings.
(* Above Photo by Nike)
(* Above Photo by Nike)
Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Reserve
Of all the excellent birding locations in the Monteverde area, the Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Reserve is the most well-known and the most popular. When we were there, it was busy but not as crowded as it is in the busy season.
Nike scouted it out the afternoon of our Curi-Chanca Reserve walk as the rest of us chilled. She came back gung-ho and talked all of us into changing our plan for zip-lining in order to visit the Cloud Forest the next morning.
It was warm and humid, and the trails were steep and slick in places, so our pace was a little slow. We attempted to find the location of the last resplendent questzal sighting, but no luck. So, we resigned ourself to lick our wounds and count our blessings. A coati joined us for about 10 minutes on the trail down.
Further on our way, I came across two excited women. Seeing me, they pointed up to a branch. BINGO! It was a questzal that was soon joined by others. Nike came up and we spent some time trying to photograph these beauties.
(* Above Video by Nike)
After seeing “THE BIRDS," a big thumbs up as Niki took a selfie.
(* Above Photo by Nike)
Manual Antonio National Park
After we checked in to our hotel, the Jungle Beach, we were told that there was no water there or anywhere in the vicinity, and no one knew when the spigots would be turned on. Going without water until the next morning wasn’t pleasant, but the possibility of no water for two days seemed like a bad situation. Hence, we decided to cut our trip short by one day.
The next morning, Jan and Jamers stayed at the hotel for the morning while Niki and I went to Manual Antonio National Park. Manual Antonio was Costa Rica’s first national park, its smallest national park, and its most crowded national park (you have to sign up online and only a limited number get let in). Is it worth it? This picture of the beach is persuading.
We saw a few birds, including this good-looking slaty-tailed trogon.
We also saw a two-toed sloth, but it was a neck-stretcher to see it.
Back Home
Noonish, we took the trip back to our home in Atenas. The next day was our last time together, so once again, we made a road trip—this time a short drive.
Rescate Wildlife Rescue Center Costa Rica
https://rescatewildlife.org/tickets-tours/
This is a first-class rescue center where the animals come first.
(* Above Photo by Nike)
For the most part, that ended our adventure—until next time.
IS THAT IT? NO! THERE IS MORE EXCITEMENT!
Starting immediately, you can view world-class old trucks! For 15 years, Alex and Jan traveled the Southwest part of the US shooting old trucks. Visit my gallery on Fine Art America to take a look. https://fineartamerica.com/profiles/32-james-alexander
Pura Vida!
Bog 6: Mangos and Monkeys
27/04/25 17:20
This is mango season! Every day after my morning walk, I pick up a couple ripe mangos and have them for part of my breakfast—delicious! Monkeys feel the same way. They have been hanging out late at night and early in the morning feasting.
Here is a big male Congo monkey reflecting and digesting.
DO NOT GO TO THE BEACH!
Semana Santa, the seven days leading up to Easter, is a really big deal here. Catholicism is the official state religion, and Semana Santa and Easter are really big time. Businesses close or lessen hours and many/most/almost all natives head for the beach. Our good friends here gave us this warning, “DO NOT GO TO THE BEACH, as there are hundreds of running screaming kids, dueling boom boxes, and major blanket/towel/space infringement. We took their advice and enjoyed the quiet of our neighborhood. Note: I already put this on next year’s calendar.
Coatimundi Bash
Around noon one day, over 20 coatamundi showed up just across the water, scrambling and eating whatever fruits, berries, insects, birds, eggs, and lizards they could find in the half-hour search. What a treat to watch.
Birds from Our Backyard
Reptiles on the Rise
When it comes to spotting critters, Jan is at bald-eagle level. For example, while seated outside, Jan spotted a couple big male iguanas across water, 40 feet or so, and up in the trees at about the observation level of a New York skyscraper. These are the type of photos one does not normally see.
Upcoming Surprise: In my next blog I will be introducing…
Jack will be watching.
Pura Vida!
Here is a big male Congo monkey reflecting and digesting.
DO NOT GO TO THE BEACH!
Semana Santa, the seven days leading up to Easter, is a really big deal here. Catholicism is the official state religion, and Semana Santa and Easter are really big time. Businesses close or lessen hours and many/most/almost all natives head for the beach. Our good friends here gave us this warning, “DO NOT GO TO THE BEACH, as there are hundreds of running screaming kids, dueling boom boxes, and major blanket/towel/space infringement. We took their advice and enjoyed the quiet of our neighborhood. Note: I already put this on next year’s calendar.
Coatimundi Bash
Around noon one day, over 20 coatamundi showed up just across the water, scrambling and eating whatever fruits, berries, insects, birds, eggs, and lizards they could find in the half-hour search. What a treat to watch.
Birds from Our Backyard
Reptiles on the Rise
When it comes to spotting critters, Jan is at bald-eagle level. For example, while seated outside, Jan spotted a couple big male iguanas across water, 40 feet or so, and up in the trees at about the observation level of a New York skyscraper. These are the type of photos one does not normally see.
Upcoming Surprise: In my next blog I will be introducing…
Jack will be watching.
Pura Vida!
Blog 5: Monkey Mango Madness
13/04/25 08:07
As mentioned in an earlier blog, we have occasionally been visited by both white-faced and howler monkeys. Quite fun to watch them scamper, swing, and sway in our backyard trees. Lately, however, the howler visits have increased a lot—Jan and I both figured out the reason for the increase—the increase in mangos…howlers love mangos! Often the howling starts at 2 or 3 a.m. As I eat my breakfast, it is first light a few minutes after 6 a.m., and I see four or five swaying along in the tree tops. Here is a shot of the big male howler watching the other howlers at play.
Backyard Birds
Along with increased monkeys, the ripening mangos attract more birds. Here are some of our recent backyard visitors: a Montezuma, an immature male summer tanager, a rufous-backed wren, and a keel-billed toucan butt shot.
Finally, we got a hummingbird feeder up! Here are photos of the cinnamon hummingbird and the rufous-tailed hummingbird.
The Rescata Preserve
With friends, we visited the Rescata Preserve. https://rescatewildlife.org/. This is a world-class sanctuary that provides a good home for all kinds of critters, from jaguars to sloths to the resplendent quetzal.
Here is one big lizard and a white-faced monkey watching the big lizard.
Here is a sitting monkey, a hanging monkey, and a pair of scarlet macaws.
Fun Facts and Figures
Interested in a deeper dive on Costa Rica? Here are three resources that will rev your engine, warm your jets, and boost your horsepower:
You might see in my photo the pages are getting a little dog-eared from constant reference.
Till next time.
Pura Vida!
Backyard Birds
Along with increased monkeys, the ripening mangos attract more birds. Here are some of our recent backyard visitors: a Montezuma, an immature male summer tanager, a rufous-backed wren, and a keel-billed toucan butt shot.
Finally, we got a hummingbird feeder up! Here are photos of the cinnamon hummingbird and the rufous-tailed hummingbird.
The Rescata Preserve
With friends, we visited the Rescata Preserve. https://rescatewildlife.org/. This is a world-class sanctuary that provides a good home for all kinds of critters, from jaguars to sloths to the resplendent quetzal.
Here is one big lizard and a white-faced monkey watching the big lizard.
Here is a sitting monkey, a hanging monkey, and a pair of scarlet macaws.
Fun Facts and Figures
Interested in a deeper dive on Costa Rica? Here are three resources that will rev your engine, warm your jets, and boost your horsepower:
- Just for fun, check out YouTube. You will find lots of videos on Costa Rica and some are very well done. I suggest you limit your view time to two hours because you soon get tired of beautiful beaches, spewing volcanoes, flights of gorgeous birds, and so on and so on.
- Another recommendation is the free newsletter MyTanFeet.com. They give all sorts of solid information and excellent advice.
- For great facts, figures, and recommendations, Frommer’s 13th guide on Costa Rica is excellent.
You might see in my photo the pages are getting a little dog-eared from constant reference.
Till next time.
Pura Vida!
Blog 4: Simmering Springs and Wild Waterfalls
30/03/25 07:39
So much to see, so much to do!
Here is a morning view from our place usually accompanied by a light warm breeze and bird calls in the background and the smell of a great day coming up.
One morning, we took a 45-minute trek to the southwest to Carara National Park, a wonderland of wildlife and a must-visit for serious birders.
I took a three-hour photography tour in this wildlife wonderland. Here is a yellow-throated toucan, a spider monkey, and a scarlet macaw.
Then Jan and I and the Pups drove up a windy mountain road to the Tiko Restaurante Mirador. It is a dog-friendly, great-food restaurant with a wonderful view of the Pacific (they served good beer as well).
Hot Springs
Where there are volcanoes, there are hot springs, and thus Costa Rica has a large variety of springs across the country. Some new friends who are very savvy with the area invited us for a hot springs visit. We dropped the Pups off at their new sitter’s place, then in our car followed them for a two-hour drive with a couple of stops along the way.
We booked at the last moment, so were not able to stay in their hotel but found a room in another, El Tucano and Spa just a mile-and-a-tad away. Nice place!
Along with some serious soaking, over our stay I photo’d this golden-hooded tanager and this heliconia. Jan shot this gorgeous torch ginger (no touch up of any kind!).
La Paz Waterfall
We continued our journey heading east and south. Just before arriving at the waterfall, we checked out this great view.
Impressive.
After a few more short stops, we wandered back to enjoy a very nice meal at Monsoons.
Gardens in Sarchi
On another day, our friends gave us a tour of the gardens in Sarchi—peace and beauty.
Great place to relax.
Quick Trip to North Carolina
Visitors to Costa Rica are welcome to stay in the country as long as they like, but must leave the country at six-month intervals. Jan and I flew to North Carolina to meet this requirement but more importantly to spend time with Auntie Moreen and our very good friend Susanne. Both the company and the weather were wonderful. We also had the chance to pick up a few “can’t live without” items.
Backyard Shots
Here is a white-winged dove, a motmot, and a cinnamon-belied saltator.
Speaking of waterfalls, we have one in our backyard. Not as dramatic as La Paz, but how many people have a waterfall in their backyard?
Tunes at Coopeatenas
We have a store within a mile of where we live that is the lifeblood of our town. A nice grocery, it has most of the basics, a place to pay your bills, a casual place to sit and enjoy coffee, and an always-needed ATM machine for staying flexible. Often, they will have small events relative to local issues and sometimes some live entertainment. Here is an example:
Gotta love it!
Fun Facts and Figures
Costa Rica is on Central Standard Time and doesn't observe daylight savings time. The shortest day of the year is December 21. The longest day of the year is June 20. Days and nights are nearly equal year-round because it's located near the equator. Yesterday sunrise was at 5:39 a.m. and sunset was at 5:41 p.m.
Pura Vida!
Here is a morning view from our place usually accompanied by a light warm breeze and bird calls in the background and the smell of a great day coming up.
One morning, we took a 45-minute trek to the southwest to Carara National Park, a wonderland of wildlife and a must-visit for serious birders.
I took a three-hour photography tour in this wildlife wonderland. Here is a yellow-throated toucan, a spider monkey, and a scarlet macaw.
Then Jan and I and the Pups drove up a windy mountain road to the Tiko Restaurante Mirador. It is a dog-friendly, great-food restaurant with a wonderful view of the Pacific (they served good beer as well).
Hot Springs
Where there are volcanoes, there are hot springs, and thus Costa Rica has a large variety of springs across the country. Some new friends who are very savvy with the area invited us for a hot springs visit. We dropped the Pups off at their new sitter’s place, then in our car followed them for a two-hour drive with a couple of stops along the way.
We booked at the last moment, so were not able to stay in their hotel but found a room in another, El Tucano and Spa just a mile-and-a-tad away. Nice place!
Along with some serious soaking, over our stay I photo’d this golden-hooded tanager and this heliconia. Jan shot this gorgeous torch ginger (no touch up of any kind!).
La Paz Waterfall
We continued our journey heading east and south. Just before arriving at the waterfall, we checked out this great view.
Impressive.
After a few more short stops, we wandered back to enjoy a very nice meal at Monsoons.
Gardens in Sarchi
On another day, our friends gave us a tour of the gardens in Sarchi—peace and beauty.
Great place to relax.
Quick Trip to North Carolina
Visitors to Costa Rica are welcome to stay in the country as long as they like, but must leave the country at six-month intervals. Jan and I flew to North Carolina to meet this requirement but more importantly to spend time with Auntie Moreen and our very good friend Susanne. Both the company and the weather were wonderful. We also had the chance to pick up a few “can’t live without” items.
Backyard Shots
Here is a white-winged dove, a motmot, and a cinnamon-belied saltator.
Speaking of waterfalls, we have one in our backyard. Not as dramatic as La Paz, but how many people have a waterfall in their backyard?
Tunes at Coopeatenas
We have a store within a mile of where we live that is the lifeblood of our town. A nice grocery, it has most of the basics, a place to pay your bills, a casual place to sit and enjoy coffee, and an always-needed ATM machine for staying flexible. Often, they will have small events relative to local issues and sometimes some live entertainment. Here is an example:
Gotta love it!
Fun Facts and Figures
Costa Rica is on Central Standard Time and doesn't observe daylight savings time. The shortest day of the year is December 21. The longest day of the year is June 20. Days and nights are nearly equal year-round because it's located near the equator. Yesterday sunrise was at 5:39 a.m. and sunset was at 5:41 p.m.
Pura Vida!
Blog 3: Walking on Water
09/03/25 08:37
What kind of blog title is this? Read on and it will all make sense.
The Jesus Christ Lizard
I am not making this up, Jesus Christ has visited several times!
This basillisk lizard’s nickname comes from their ability to walk (actually run) on water. We have had a small one, a medium-sized one, and a big guy visit us.
Check out this video clip:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CW0TijmAUqY
Iguanas
Iguanas are just about everywhere. I have to be on guard when walking the pups because when they see this reptile, they both blast off like cheetahs and pull like mastiffs.
We have a “family” of iguanas just the other side of the river. Depending on the day, there is a large adult male, a female or two, one or two or more youngsters, and sometimes a rival male.
We often see the “Big Guy” show his stuff when females are around, and more than once we have seen his actions bear fruit. (I have intimate photos, but felt it best not to display the hanky-panky). Here a few more family-approved shots.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Iguana
The White-Nosed Coati
In the heart of Costa Rica's forests, there's a special animal called the coati, or coatimundi, also known as "pizote" in Spanish. It's curious, with a striped tail and a cute face.
One afternoon as we were spotting iguanas, first one, then two, then more coati appeared in the area usually occupied by the iguanas. We spotted nine in total as they systematically searched the iguana area, presumably looking for food? A little research showed that iguanas are on their meal menu! Who knew?
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N2Z1rOTc_mo
A Few Birds
Here is a blue-gray tanager, a chachalaca, and a keel-billed toucan. All of these were at our home or close by.
Butterflies
Check out the orange banner butterfly.
Plants & Flowers
Take a look at torch ginger, sunset bells, and the bird of paradise.
Things Coming Up
We continue to enjoy Costa Rica more each day. We are making new friends, learning our way around, and the weather has been just fantastic. Another huge plus is that we have found a really good pup-sitter! This adds a nice level of freedom for exploring. More info coming soon.
Pura Vida!
The Jesus Christ Lizard
I am not making this up, Jesus Christ has visited several times!
This basillisk lizard’s nickname comes from their ability to walk (actually run) on water. We have had a small one, a medium-sized one, and a big guy visit us.
Check out this video clip:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CW0TijmAUqY
Iguanas
Iguanas are just about everywhere. I have to be on guard when walking the pups because when they see this reptile, they both blast off like cheetahs and pull like mastiffs.
We have a “family” of iguanas just the other side of the river. Depending on the day, there is a large adult male, a female or two, one or two or more youngsters, and sometimes a rival male.
We often see the “Big Guy” show his stuff when females are around, and more than once we have seen his actions bear fruit. (I have intimate photos, but felt it best not to display the hanky-panky). Here a few more family-approved shots.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Iguana
The White-Nosed Coati
In the heart of Costa Rica's forests, there's a special animal called the coati, or coatimundi, also known as "pizote" in Spanish. It's curious, with a striped tail and a cute face.
One afternoon as we were spotting iguanas, first one, then two, then more coati appeared in the area usually occupied by the iguanas. We spotted nine in total as they systematically searched the iguana area, presumably looking for food? A little research showed that iguanas are on their meal menu! Who knew?
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N2Z1rOTc_mo
A Few Birds
Here is a blue-gray tanager, a chachalaca, and a keel-billed toucan. All of these were at our home or close by.
Butterflies
Check out the orange banner butterfly.
Plants & Flowers
Take a look at torch ginger, sunset bells, and the bird of paradise.
Things Coming Up
We continue to enjoy Costa Rica more each day. We are making new friends, learning our way around, and the weather has been just fantastic. Another huge plus is that we have found a really good pup-sitter! This adds a nice level of freedom for exploring. More info coming soon.
Pura Vida!
Blog 2: Monkey Business
22/02/25 13:12
Our last writing, Blog #1, Vamos a Central America, shared our interesting move from the States to Costa Rica.
Jan and I and our two pups are in our new home in Atenas, Costa Rica. A few bags are still unpacked, but lots going on.
Our New Home
Our new casa is a three-year-old furnished home with three bedrooms (one is my office), two baths, an electric stove, washer and dryer, refrigerator, microwave, on-demand hot water, Internet, and lots of ceiling fans (no AC needed). Although our motorhome was huge by RVing standards, our new place feels pleasantly massive.
Our walk-out patio deck borders a grove of bamboo, a stand of deciduous trees, and a streaming river with a waterfall.
Bird Feeder Birds
A variety of birds live close or nearby, and many like to frequent our bird feeder out on the deck. We had a couple in town build the feeder for us, and it is a constant focus of entertainment.
Here you can see my camera set up just a few yards away from the action.
Jan fills our bird feeder each morning just before dawn, and we usually get a nice variety of birds to eat the fruit—they like the papaya, love the bananas, but oranges and other fruit, not so much.
Here are a few customers: Motmots, Baltimore oriole, Hofmann’s woodpecker, keel-billed toucan, and more.
Lots more birds will be coming in future blogs.
Monkey Business
We have been wonderfully pleased with some of our deck visitors (and again you will see more in the future), but at the top of our entertainment list (that goes for Jack and Toby as well) are monkeys. We have two different types of monkeys with some basic similarities and a few big differences.
White-faced capuchin monkeys (normally called white-faced monkeys) seem to be the most common. What a treat! With no warning, the leaves start to tremble and branches start to bow as these seriously looking mammals zig-zag across the canopy in perfect Tarzan choreography. We have seen them in groups of two to seven, eating leaves and coming quite close as they swing through the bamboo.
The second type is the Howler monkey. Howler monkeys are commonly called “Congo monkeys” in Costa Rica.
Wonder why they are called “howler?” Click here for a clue.
As you probably have guessed, you can hear these guys coming. In fact, the common reaction of people the first time they hear this howl is: “Holy Moly! What is it? Are there bears in Costa Rica! Where can I hide!” For example, the normally fearless Toby stops in his tracks, and cautious Jack, well, he acts cautiously.
Driving in SJO
Our first day driving in a new city and in a new car was good—we only got honked at twice and flipped off once! I’ve done a little big-city driving, and this had all the similar attributes—speed limits considered just recommendations, tailgating seen as a sign of professional know-how—but another big consideration here is the quality of the roads. In many cases, the roads are the worst: narrow, rocky lanes ending with no warning, initially smooth roads turning into cow paths, and San Andreas-fault wannabes waiting around a bend.
Later, after we had time to reflect, we’ve arrived at the following Key Points and Recommendations for Driving:
In the next blog, I’ll introduce you to some new critters I think you will like and maybe share an experience or two.
Pura Vida!
Jan and I and our two pups are in our new home in Atenas, Costa Rica. A few bags are still unpacked, but lots going on.
Our New Home
Our new casa is a three-year-old furnished home with three bedrooms (one is my office), two baths, an electric stove, washer and dryer, refrigerator, microwave, on-demand hot water, Internet, and lots of ceiling fans (no AC needed). Although our motorhome was huge by RVing standards, our new place feels pleasantly massive.
Our walk-out patio deck borders a grove of bamboo, a stand of deciduous trees, and a streaming river with a waterfall.
Bird Feeder Birds
A variety of birds live close or nearby, and many like to frequent our bird feeder out on the deck. We had a couple in town build the feeder for us, and it is a constant focus of entertainment.
Here you can see my camera set up just a few yards away from the action.
Jan fills our bird feeder each morning just before dawn, and we usually get a nice variety of birds to eat the fruit—they like the papaya, love the bananas, but oranges and other fruit, not so much.
Here are a few customers: Motmots, Baltimore oriole, Hofmann’s woodpecker, keel-billed toucan, and more.
Lots more birds will be coming in future blogs.
Monkey Business
We have been wonderfully pleased with some of our deck visitors (and again you will see more in the future), but at the top of our entertainment list (that goes for Jack and Toby as well) are monkeys. We have two different types of monkeys with some basic similarities and a few big differences.
White-faced capuchin monkeys (normally called white-faced monkeys) seem to be the most common. What a treat! With no warning, the leaves start to tremble and branches start to bow as these seriously looking mammals zig-zag across the canopy in perfect Tarzan choreography. We have seen them in groups of two to seven, eating leaves and coming quite close as they swing through the bamboo.
The second type is the Howler monkey. Howler monkeys are commonly called “Congo monkeys” in Costa Rica.
Wonder why they are called “howler?” Click here for a clue.
As you probably have guessed, you can hear these guys coming. In fact, the common reaction of people the first time they hear this howl is: “Holy Moly! What is it? Are there bears in Costa Rica! Where can I hide!” For example, the normally fearless Toby stops in his tracks, and cautious Jack, well, he acts cautiously.
Driving in SJO
Our first day driving in a new city and in a new car was good—we only got honked at twice and flipped off once! I’ve done a little big-city driving, and this had all the similar attributes—speed limits considered just recommendations, tailgating seen as a sign of professional know-how—but another big consideration here is the quality of the roads. In many cases, the roads are the worst: narrow, rocky lanes ending with no warning, initially smooth roads turning into cow paths, and San Andreas-fault wannabes waiting around a bend.
Later, after we had time to reflect, we’ve arrived at the following Key Points and Recommendations for Driving:
- Study a real map ahead of time just to get some grounding if things go south. (Don’t even think about traveling without a travel app, such as Waze or Google.
- Road signs are nice…when they are there and IF they are accurate.
- Really try to drive a 4WD, as they handle potholes and dirt paths much better.
- When Waze (the most popular travel app) says turn in 100 meters, you better be ready.
- Ignore the motorcycles/motor bikes (because they ignore you). The drivers must be on missions from God or on the way to someone who tips really well for on-time delivery for the crazy risks they take.
- If your app says one hour, plan on two, and be ready for three. Hence, pee early, bring extra water, a snack might be nice, and audio books are good as well.
- Watch for and use hand signs to conspire with other drivers. For example, the “I’m coming anyway" command or “come quick and I’ll let you in" signal, and so on.
- Tolerate tailgating—that’s just what they do.
- Don’t drive at night—park it and text Uber.
- Use relaxation therapy before leaving.
- Mild, non-impairing drugs might be an OK option.
- Be calm and be kind.
In the next blog, I’ll introduce you to some new critters I think you will like and maybe share an experience or two.
Pura Vida!
Blog 1: Vamos a Central America
31/01/25 13:55
Welcome past readers of my Motoring Across America blog, and a tip of the hat to everyone else joining as we share our journey moving to glorious Costa Rica.
Our Last Situation
Jan and I and our two pups were booked to fly from North Carolina to Costa Rica to start a new life journey. However, by airline rules, our big guy, Jack, must endure this five-plus-hour international flight in the cramped, hot, stinky cargo bay. This is bad enough, but if the air temperature the day of the flight reaches 85 degrees, he is evicted and cannot fly at all—bad situation at best. But what can we do?
Lucky Break
Doing some online research, we found the answer to our Jack-in-the-Box dilemma.
Picture this, dog lovers: As you sip your champagne and nibble on lobster and caviar in your executive chair on your private charter jet, your pampered pup sits on your lap or in nearby seat grazing on Florida shrimp and nibbles of Gouda cheese. You fly to your destination with your pup receiving constant attention and continual comfort. You and your pup exit the flight relaxed and welcoming the day. No issues. No fear…no terror…no separation anxiety (well, except for the anxiety of a wholesome sum of money separating from your wallet!). The name of our savior in the skies? Perro Air. (Note: I may have embellished the description above just a tad!)
We immediately contacted Perro Air and committed to having Jack and Jan fly with them when available. Hey, it’s only money.
The challenge is that Perro Air only flies to/from certain airports in certain Costa Rica cities to certain airports in certain US cities on certain dates. Of course nothing aligned with our hopes, but beggars and choosers, as they say. So, we built our new travel schedule around theirs. Now things started to get interesting. The Perro Air decision had a significant impact on our travel plans. Take a look:
Original Plan: Easy-Peasy
New Plan: Lots of Moving Parts
OK, there you have it: not pretty, not easy, not inexpensive, but doable.
Bright Spot: Scouting Trip
Adopting the Perro Air plan freed up 10 days for us. Hey, we already had bought tickets. It sure would be nice to have a place “ready to go” when we brought the Pups to their new home. So, keeping to our original dates, we dropped off the Pups at Cousin Chris’s and headed for the airport. Along with two roller-board suitcases, my briefcase, and Jan’s big purse, we had five containers, each with 50 to 75 pounds of our remaining worldly goods.
We flew to SJO airport to look for houses in the Central Valley, which seemed to be the best fit for us.
We had booked First Class seats, as it allowed more baggage, and it was a pleasant and uneventful flight. A porter at the baggage claim helped us get our luggage through security and over to the parking area where we met an employee of the car broker whom I worked with to get our purchase of our 4WD Hundai Santa Fe Car.
Thursday (the next day)
With the realtor's help, we visited four different homes in the Valley. All had some attributes, but none stuck out. So, it was a great learning day, but we left the day a little bummed.
Friday
On Friday we met up with a very nice, very sharp realtor in the town of Atenas. Within five minutes we were at a house for rent, and within two more minutes, Jan was saying in her outside voice,“This is it! This is the one I want!”
I am sometimes a little slow but never a dummy. From then on, I just listened and solemnly nodded my head.
This was the place that Jan saw online weeks earlier and loved, but thought it might have been rented out already. Jan negotiated a few things, and within a couple of hours we had worked out the details, agreed to the terms, and put down the deposit. The manager kindly agreed to allow us to store our four bins at our property, which was a big relief. All good.
On a Roll: Our Good News Continues
I scanned the Perro Air website to see if there were any updates—I was hoping they would not cancel Jan and Jackson’s flight. It was all a go, but I also saw that Jack and Jan’s flight was not sold out. Was this an opportunity?
Fingers crossed, I dropped them a note asking if there might be room for little Toby on the flight, and if so, could I buy him a seat? That would potentially save a lot of hassle. I was doubtful that they would agree, or if they did, they would want big bucks. But the kind folks responded that an extra 12 pounds was not an issue and he could come along at no extra charge. Gotta love Perro Air! The stress relief was immediate.
Next Steps
Jan and I returned to North Carolina. We arranged appointments and health certificates for the Pups (at the cost of $1,100), worked out any remaining travel glitches, and then a few days later, Jan and the Pups took an Uber to the Ft. Lauderdale Executive Airport, where they jetted directly on Perro Air to Liberia.
My two-stop flight got in within three hours of them. We spent the night at the Hampton Inn near the airport, resting up for our drive the next morning. After a very tasty breakfast (Hiltons do a nice job), we headed out early, and within three hours we were back in Atenas, fueling up with gas, and then fueling up with groceries before stopping at our new home. We spent a few hours unloading, moving, shuttling, stacking etc. before signing papers and officially committing to our lease.
Wow, holy moly, saints be praised, pass the sausages…we did it!
My next blog will introduce you to our new home and share what it is really like here in Costa Rica. You will be introduced to some serious monkey business, peak inside an X-rated Iguana experience, and meet Jesus Christ in action (for real!).
Pura Vida!
Our Last Situation
Jan and I and our two pups were booked to fly from North Carolina to Costa Rica to start a new life journey. However, by airline rules, our big guy, Jack, must endure this five-plus-hour international flight in the cramped, hot, stinky cargo bay. This is bad enough, but if the air temperature the day of the flight reaches 85 degrees, he is evicted and cannot fly at all—bad situation at best. But what can we do?
Lucky Break
Doing some online research, we found the answer to our Jack-in-the-Box dilemma.
Picture this, dog lovers: As you sip your champagne and nibble on lobster and caviar in your executive chair on your private charter jet, your pampered pup sits on your lap or in nearby seat grazing on Florida shrimp and nibbles of Gouda cheese. You fly to your destination with your pup receiving constant attention and continual comfort. You and your pup exit the flight relaxed and welcoming the day. No issues. No fear…no terror…no separation anxiety (well, except for the anxiety of a wholesome sum of money separating from your wallet!). The name of our savior in the skies? Perro Air. (Note: I may have embellished the description above just a tad!)
We immediately contacted Perro Air and committed to having Jack and Jan fly with them when available. Hey, it’s only money.
The challenge is that Perro Air only flies to/from certain airports in certain Costa Rica cities to certain airports in certain US cities on certain dates. Of course nothing aligned with our hopes, but beggars and choosers, as they say. So, we built our new travel schedule around theirs. Now things started to get interesting. The Perro Air decision had a significant impact on our travel plans. Take a look:
Original Plan: Easy-Peasy
- We take two weeks to sell the Jeep for a good price in Charlotte, North Carolina.
- A relative would drive all of us the 40 minutes to the Charlotte airport.
- We would fly direct from Charlotte to the San Jose airport in Costa Rica (4 hours and 20 minutes).
- We would rent a car, and then drive the 30 minutes to our new home.
New Plan: Lots of Moving Parts
- Find something productive to do for a couple weeks.
- Drive Jeep from Charlotte to Savannah.
- Drive to Ocala and stay with a friend.
- Visit friends in Ft. Myers.
- Drive to Ft. Lauderdale. Sell our Jeep to Carvana and have them pick it up at our hotel.
- Alex and Toby: Along with a full suitcase, a 70-pound container, and a cage for Toby, Alex and Toby Uber to the airport, fly to Atlanta, switch planes and fly to Liberia, Costa Rica. Alex would have in his pocket $200 in tens in case bribes were required if Toby started trouble.
- Jan and Jack: Casually Uber to the airport, and then fly to Liberia in style. Late afternoon we would all meet up at the hotel by Liberia airport and spend the night. The next day, we would drive five hours across the country to SJO, and then drive to our new home.
- Rest for 10 days—have groceries delivered.
OK, there you have it: not pretty, not easy, not inexpensive, but doable.
Bright Spot: Scouting Trip
Adopting the Perro Air plan freed up 10 days for us. Hey, we already had bought tickets. It sure would be nice to have a place “ready to go” when we brought the Pups to their new home. So, keeping to our original dates, we dropped off the Pups at Cousin Chris’s and headed for the airport. Along with two roller-board suitcases, my briefcase, and Jan’s big purse, we had five containers, each with 50 to 75 pounds of our remaining worldly goods.
We flew to SJO airport to look for houses in the Central Valley, which seemed to be the best fit for us.
We had booked First Class seats, as it allowed more baggage, and it was a pleasant and uneventful flight. A porter at the baggage claim helped us get our luggage through security and over to the parking area where we met an employee of the car broker whom I worked with to get our purchase of our 4WD Hundai Santa Fe Car.
Thursday (the next day)
With the realtor's help, we visited four different homes in the Valley. All had some attributes, but none stuck out. So, it was a great learning day, but we left the day a little bummed.
Friday
On Friday we met up with a very nice, very sharp realtor in the town of Atenas. Within five minutes we were at a house for rent, and within two more minutes, Jan was saying in her outside voice,“This is it! This is the one I want!”
I am sometimes a little slow but never a dummy. From then on, I just listened and solemnly nodded my head.
This was the place that Jan saw online weeks earlier and loved, but thought it might have been rented out already. Jan negotiated a few things, and within a couple of hours we had worked out the details, agreed to the terms, and put down the deposit. The manager kindly agreed to allow us to store our four bins at our property, which was a big relief. All good.
On a Roll: Our Good News Continues
I scanned the Perro Air website to see if there were any updates—I was hoping they would not cancel Jan and Jackson’s flight. It was all a go, but I also saw that Jack and Jan’s flight was not sold out. Was this an opportunity?
Fingers crossed, I dropped them a note asking if there might be room for little Toby on the flight, and if so, could I buy him a seat? That would potentially save a lot of hassle. I was doubtful that they would agree, or if they did, they would want big bucks. But the kind folks responded that an extra 12 pounds was not an issue and he could come along at no extra charge. Gotta love Perro Air! The stress relief was immediate.
Next Steps
Jan and I returned to North Carolina. We arranged appointments and health certificates for the Pups (at the cost of $1,100), worked out any remaining travel glitches, and then a few days later, Jan and the Pups took an Uber to the Ft. Lauderdale Executive Airport, where they jetted directly on Perro Air to Liberia.
My two-stop flight got in within three hours of them. We spent the night at the Hampton Inn near the airport, resting up for our drive the next morning. After a very tasty breakfast (Hiltons do a nice job), we headed out early, and within three hours we were back in Atenas, fueling up with gas, and then fueling up with groceries before stopping at our new home. We spent a few hours unloading, moving, shuttling, stacking etc. before signing papers and officially committing to our lease.
Wow, holy moly, saints be praised, pass the sausages…we did it!
My next blog will introduce you to our new home and share what it is really like here in Costa Rica. You will be introduced to some serious monkey business, peak inside an X-rated Iguana experience, and meet Jesus Christ in action (for real!).
Pura Vida!