Exploring Costa Rica’s Nature and Culture

Costa Rica

Costa Rica, with its diverse landscapes and vibrant culture, offers a beautiful blend of rainforest and local charm that makes it a truly unforgettable destination. When planning our trip to this tropical country we experienced the beauty of nature firsthand and were delighted by the hospitality of the Costa Rican people. Just under an hour’s drive from San José’s Juan Santamaría International Airport. We stayed at the Suitree Experience Hotel, situated outside the small town of Obandito. There are not enough words to describe the beauty of this hotel. Scattered amongst the trees the hotel provided privacy and stunning views, offering a special retreat from the congestion of the more popular tourist areas. The hotel, still fresh from its opening, offered exceptional value with staff eager to show off what they had. The intimate surroundings and thoughtful design allowed us to disconnect completely and be immersed in the landscape. Including wrap-around porches and uninterrupted views of the canopies accompanied by the hummingbirds feeding on the flowers and howler monkeys amongst the surrounding mountains belting out throughout the day. Made the hotel one of the most unique experiences I have ever had. Though a bit off the beaten path, the journey to the hotel was filled with authentic experiences that showcased the country’s rich culture. As often overlooked the journey from the airport to the resort is often viewed as a hindrance to enjoying what is supposed to be a relaxing poolside vacation. In reality, it is a traveler's first genuine look at the place they traveled to. We always make it a point to talk to the taxi drivers to see what's worth doing and seeing and more often than not we look into their recommendations. Our cab driver made an impromptu stop along the way to introduce us to mamón chino, a tropical fruit that closely resembles lychee that was being sold at a roadside stand. An unexpected yet delightful taste of Costa Rican life. Along the drive, we quickly noticed how attuned the locals were to the value of the U.S. dollar. Visitors should be mindful of this dynamic, as tipping is customary, especially when receiving assistance in areas like the airport or from drivers. Costa Rica's tropical climate added to the allure of our visit. Throughout our stay in October, the weather remained remarkably consistent, with daytime temperatures hovering between 70°F and 90°F. Though October falls within the rainy season, the showers are typically brief and refreshing, making it easy to enjoy outdoor adventures without interruption. Costa Rica’s natural wonders are truly part of its allure. Our time was filled with ATV rides and horseback tours through the jungle to explore hidden waterfalls. The lush forests of the region home to animals I have only seen in captivity reminded us of the vibrant wildlife that thrives in the country’s protected environments.

My favorite was the zipline tour, which took us soaring through the treetops and over the rainforest. Flying a few hundred feet above the ground from point to point, we got better and better angles of the forest. A visit to a nearby zoo allowed us to observe Costa Rica’s diverse wildlife up close, including sloths, toucans, and jaguars. The experience was further enhanced by the sight of hundreds of iridescent hummingbirds jetting tree to tree, their vibrant colors adding another layer to the landscape. Our travels also took us to the coastal town of Las Catalinas, where the Mediterranean-like atmosphere was a refreshing departure from the tropical jungles we had explored. The town’s beaches, cobblestone streets, and colorful architecture felt similar to an Italian village, with a relaxed pace that invited visitors to slow down and savor the moment. Las Catalinas is known for its eco-conscious development, where luxury blends effortlessly with nature. Here, visitors can rent surfboards, and kayaks, or take part in outdoor fitness classes at a unique gym built from natural materials such as logs and cable exercises. Whether enjoying the beach, working out, or dining at one of the restaurants or breweries in the open air, the area’s charm was undeniable, and we found ourselves entranced by its peaceful ambiance. The culinary experiences in Costa Rica were equally as memorable. The hotel’s exceptional chef prepared a variety of dishes under a shaded canopy, ensuring that both my seemingly limitless diet and my girlfriend’s vegetarian preferences were well accommodated. Every meal was a celebration of fresh, local ingredients—fruits, vegetables, seafood, and the country’s renowned rice and beans offering a perfect introduction to the region’s cuisine. Our exploration of Costa Rican culture also took us to a local cocoa farm, where we learned about the chocolate-making process. Cocoa has been a vital part of Costa Rica’s agricultural history, and the tour offered a fascinating glimpse into its traditional production methods. Alongside the cocoa tour, we visited local coffee farms, where we gained insight into the careful cultivation of Costa Rica’s world-renowned coffee beans. 

Costa Rica proved to be more than just a vacation—it was an immersive journey through nature, culture, and adventure. From the peaceful seclusion of our hotel to the exhilarating outdoor activities, every moment in this vibrant country felt like a discovery. Whether it was the rich biodiversity, the warmth of the people, or the simple beauty of a beachside town, Costa Rica left an indelible mark on us. In the end, it wasn’t just the breathtaking landscapes that made the trip unforgettable, but the way the country embraced us, inviting us to connect with its land and people in a way that few destinations can.