Costa Rica first impressions
31 October 2014 | Marina Papagayo, Bahia Culebra, Costa Rica
Dan- hot and tropical
Wow, is this place clean or what?
After the somewhat blatant disregard for the environment that we observed in other countries, the first thing we noticed was the absence of litter. And I mean Oregon clean- those who are from there will know what I mean.
I can understand that a lack of education as to the damage that is being done to their environment leads to the level of littering and general pollution as well as the lack of money, and organizational willpower. That said- it would seem to me that countries as beautiful as the ones we have been in would greatly benefit from environmental awareness. This would increase pride of place as well as bring in more tourism. Admittedly I am just a turista, and as such, really don’t understand the full extent of the reasons behind this. I would think though that I am not alone in this opinion, but if I am- sorry!
Enough of that this is about Costa Rica
Pura Vida baby!
So clean is one thing, and as important as that is, it doesn’t compare to the sheer beauty of this place. Crystal waters, vistas for miles and green- not green, I would describe it as every green . all green, muy verde, etc. etc. And Parrots and Monkeys- yep it has those as well.
I know we are in the gringo/turista area of Costa Rica and as such it is biased to support us as we tour around, but you know what? I’m OK with that. It’s all a balance- we are a source of jobs and income and a rising tide raises all boats, more income in the area because of the tourism industry means that more infrastructure and more jobs are required. I know that some may be concerned over the disparity, but it does bring needed income to a country that has beauty in abundance to sell. In a perfect world this might be unnecessary, but the world is not perfect, and Costa Rica is doing a good job of raising the income for its citizens.
Yeah yeah yeah- OK, more first impressions
Playa de Coco- holy smokes, this is tacky.
Playa Potreros, nice folks and laid back
Playa Flamingo, time shares anyone?
Liberia, OK.
Playa Los Iguanito, beautiful, but a long kayak from the boat with the little fins
Papagayo Peninsula, lifestyles of the rich and famous- seriously
Roads, good so far, but don’t attempt a dirt road in the biblical rains here- especially in a clown car.
Marina Papagayo- nice to have our own private marina. This joint is as nice as anywhere we have ever been, and nicer than a lot of those. Docks are big enough to drive down; literally, they drive them in full size electric carts. The facilities are top-notch and the staff is right there if you need them. I don’t think you can get much better than this.