Tag: birds

For one week in April, home was the Andaz Costa Rica Resort on the Papagayo Peninsula. It is a place where luxury and jungle have signed a peace agreement. One minute we were enjoying a beautiful breakfast with Bahia (bay) views, the next minute we were listening to the morning birdsong.

Each morning started with the soundtrack of Howler Monkeys high in the trees. We heard them before we saw them. Imagine the sound of a prehistoric dinosaur and a revving motorcycle collaborating as the sun rises. It was immediately obvious I was not in Missouri anymore.

Then there was the raccoon. Our Midwest raccoons are usually associated with trash cans and late-night mischief. Costa Rican raccoons apparently have rebranded. This one carried itself like it worked at the resort and wanted to make sure we were enjoying our stay. It casually appeared outside our door and we continued on our way.

But the real treat came in the early morning. As the world was just starting to wake up, this little dude was searching for a place to sleep. Hello, Anteater! There’s something unforgettable about seeing wildlife in the wild!

Later that morning, we traded walking shoes for e-bikes and rode through the peninsula, winding past ocean overlooks, tropical trees, and roads where every turn looked like a postcard. It felt like the perfect Costa Rica combination: adventure, beauty, and the constant possibility that another unexpected animal might appear around the corner.

And then there was the day trip to Rincón de la Vieja National Park. We hiked through volcanic terrain, then cooled off by swimming beneath a waterfall, the kind of moment that felt surreal (and COLD) while we were in it.

Later came the famous volcanic mud mask, equal parts spa treatment and comedy routine, followed by soaking in natural hot springs surrounded by the jungle. Somewhere between the waterfall, the mud, and the steam rising from the earth, it felt like Costa Rica had designed its own wellness program.

That’s what stayed with me most about this trip. The Papagayo Peninsula delivered ocean views, SUP (stand-up paddleboarding), wildlife, and laid-back luxury. Rincón de la Vieja National Park brought waterfalls, volcanic energy, and adventure.

Two completely different experiences, one unforgettable week.