Costa Rica - July 7-14

Summary

2010-07-13T19:26:00.001-07:00

My most favorite things on this trip were zip lining, rappelling down the waterfalls, and the intense games of marco polo at night. You can’t forget all the little things like the swimming with the Bri-Bri and the coconut expedition on the beach. I learned that it’s really hard to break a coconut without a specialized tool, like a machete would do it. Also, the food here is phenomenal. I couldn’t get enough of the chocolate:D HAHA! Anyway I had an amazing time and gladly I took a lot of pictures so I can remember this one in a life time trip.

*JOE C.*

Best Summer Ever

2010-07-13T19:25:00.003-07:00

My summers are usually me on the computer or on my Xbox 360 playing games, but this summer was amazing; I got to go to Costa Rica. I got to do things that most people don’t do until they are in their mid 20’s. This was an experience I will never forget. I will look forward to doing an adventure like this again.

Morgan M.

Costa Rica

2010-07-13T19:25:00.001-07:00

Costa Rica was amazing, we had so many fun activities and programs set up for us. My favorite was when we got to visit the villagers and learn about their family and culture. –Stephanie P.

Over The Edge

2010-07-13T16:04:00.001-07:00

Today our group did one of the most exciting things we’ve done this trip: repelling down the waterfalls.We rode 4x4’s out to where we geared up and headed to the first spot. We repelled down 5 different spots in the rainforest, and 4 out of the 5 we actually got to repel either next to or right on the waterfall. At the first spot, i was sort of nervous because I have never done something like this before. Zip lining is nothing like repelling down more than a 100ft waterfall. And repelling down rock walls is nothing like it at all. This was real, actual rocks in the middle of the rainforest. Getting fastened and starting to lean over the edge, was when the emotions really kicked in. Eventually I took a deep breath and did it. I knew once I did it once I could do it 4 more times effortlessly. And that’s how it ended up happening. Repelling down itself was exhilarating. I felt confident on the next four, even though I still wasn’t doing it right. I wasn’t the best at it, but it was still an amazing experience. I mean think about it, how many people can say they’ve been repelling down waterfalls in the middle of the rainforests of Costa Rica? Well now I’m one of those people who can say that I have.

--Carrie & Cera

COSTA RICA

2010-07-13T16:00:00.001-07:00

This is the last day of our adventure in Costa Rica. The country is by far one of the most beautiful places I've ever been to. going to miss this beautiful place. Goodbye Costa Rica!

Jon D.

Eddie’s Costa Rica Top Five

2010-07-13T15:58:00.001-07:00

1) Bri Bri visit and chocolate making

2) Sky Trek Zip lining

3) Kayaking

4) Waterfall Rappelling

5) Hot Springs

Alex Panetta’s Top 5

2010-07-13T15:55:00.001-07:00

1) Waterfall rappelling

2) Zip lining

3) Bri Bri and Chocolate making

4) Hot Springs

5) Lava Flows

Queso, Pinas, y Hot Springs

2010-07-13T15:53:00.001-07:00

Yesterday was an extremely jam-packed adventure. We started in the morning with an adrenaline rush by doing zip-lining through the treetops. There were eight ziplines in all, and we reached almost 50 mph on most of them! It was very very fun and the views were amazing.

Next we went to a family farm and learned about the cheese making process. We got to help milk the cows, and this is where I think Ceara has found her calling. She went to town milking that cow! We then saw how fresh cow’s milk is turned into cheese. The best part was getting to sample the freshly made cheese. A trip to the pineapple plantation was next and after learning about and helping plant some pineapples we got to have freshly picked pineapple. It was the best pineapple ever.

Our next stop was the hot springs. It was really relaxing, except for the really hot pool where the temperature was around 104-106. That was just too hot. But I have to say my favorite part of the hot springs experience was the smoothies Ceara and I got. She had a passion fruit and I had a soursop one. My soursop smoothie had to be the best smoothie I have ever had. Too bad we can’t get soursop in the US because it has become my new favorite fruit.

And this day couldn’t have ended better: seeing Arenal volcano erupt. Four times. It was awesome!

~Carrie

Hot Springs and Rappelling

2010-07-13T15:48:00.001-07:00

Yesterday we went to a hot springs resort. It was extremely fascinating that we were able to go and check out the different temperatures in the the different pools. One of the coolest parts of the hot springs resort was how “oddly” set up the pools were. I am unsure as to how this whole layout effecting the temperature works, but I frankly don’t care because the entire experience was heavenly. Their were some really cool waterfalls and natural jets in the pools. Actually, the first thing that I thought of when I was there, was that it seemed like a place were the “rich and famous” would hang out. I think that this was a very neat place.

But today we went rappelling. We went down waterfalls and just plain old rocks, but it was really rushing. I believe that this was one of the most adrenaline pumping moments of the trip. We went down four rock cliffs. It was really wet and wonderful. The views were amazing. The thrill of knowing that their are only two ropes keeping you from dropping to the ground was so exhilarating. At first, it was slightly nerve-racking but after the first drop, you figured out how to do it, and it became very fun. The highest, and first, cliff was 165 ft from the bottom. I really liked this adventure.

Overall, I think that today and yesterday were pretty cool and amazing. And I definitely liked all of the adventures we have done.

~~~Christopher Drummond

Ziplines

2010-07-12T21:17:00.000-07:00

We had an amazing time today on the ziplines. They were fast and they were high. The tallest one was over 200m above the ground and the longest one was over 1km long!

I have the GPS track linked below. The first two lines were test ones where I didn't even get to 10mph. The last 5 were all over 40mph with the last one being close to 50mph. That was wicked fast!

GPS Link

Arenal Volcano

2010-07-12T20:46:00.001-07:00

we’ve been staying at the base of the volcano Arenal. The view of the volcano Arenal has been amazing. The volcano is a perfect cone shape. though i haven’t yet scene it I’ve heard several people talk about the volcano erupting small amounts several times.

ZipLining

2010-07-12T20:44:00.001-07:00

today was a fun day we just got back it was a intense time most fun i had in a long time hope to do it again really soon .

the view was fantastic for the height i was at i was the first one to go which i got to experience everything before anyone else.

we went to the market and we bought 2.5 Coca-Cola they have 2 new containers of Coca-Cola 2.5 and 3 they are about the size of the regular Coca-Cola bottles back home.

`Austin Lotts

I LAVA the Canopy Tour!

2010-07-12T20:43:00.001-07:00

We arrived in Arenal last night to our beautiful lodges nestled at the base of the Arenal Volcano. Despite our first experience of rain in a rain forest, we still were able to view the entire volcano, hear the sounds, and some even saw bright red lava flow as they relaxed in the jacuzzi!!! Hopefully we will all see lava tonight ( :

The rain caused us to reschedule our canopy tour to this morning. As we woke up, and stepped out on our back patio, we looked up at the volcano and the calm skies and knew “today is the day” as Fabian says.

We drove about a half hour to Sky Adventures and geared up for one of the most thrilling experiences of my life. Words cannot describe the views of the Arenal Lake, Volcano, and lush rain forest….and words surely cannot describe the RUSH from zipping 50 mph 200 m above ground!

I am so proud of our fearless group. They continue to amaze me with their sense of adventure and thirst to learn and grow from this experience.

This has been a trip of a lifetime. PURA VIDA!

Tearney

48.4

2010-07-12T20:41:00.001-07:00

I bet you are wondering “What is ‘48.4’?” Well, 48.4 is our max speed, in miles per hour, that we hit during our zip lining adventure. This was a little bit less than what the company posted but none the less amazing!

I think that the zip lining was epic! It was soo much fun. Going through the canopy of the rainforest with the Arenal Volcano and Lake Arenal next to you was pretty cool. You could see a lot of the highest canopy as well as all of the lake and half of the volcano.

The zip lining was definitely well worth the wait. The stupid thunderstorm that happened yesterday near the volcano delayed our adventure. This was pretty angering because they told us that we couldn’t zip line after everyone got all suited up and were “pumped” for the adventure. But its still ok,we did it today and it was one of the best adventures so far.

By: Alex LaLone

Milking A Cow

2010-07-12T20:40:00.001-07:00

Today we went to a cheese farm and milked three cows. I have never seen a cow in person, let alone get the chance to milk one. So when i was presented with the opportunity, I made sure to take advantage of it. I am so glad I did. It was a bit gross for me to touch the cow’s utter, but once the farmer taught me how to milk the cow properly, it was like second nature. It was very easy and the cow was not putting up a fight to my surprise. I am so glad i had the chance to do this!

- Tiffany Vera

Food, Food,&, More Food.

2010-07-12T20:38:00.001-07:00

Today after the amazing zip lining experiance the group visited a local farm where they showed us the process of making cheese. They showed us step by step the process, then they prepared a small meal for us, where the main dish was cheese. We then headed over to a pineapple farm where we learned the process of growing pineapples. The farmers then let us taste some fresh pineapple which was very juicy. The farmers then let us into their home where they prepared a meal that was muy delicioso. The people in Costa Rica are very friendly and show so much hospitality.

-Teyra A.

Zip lining…

2010-07-12T18:37:00.003-07:00

Today we went zip lining. Although we were supposed to do it yesterday, we couldn't”t do it due to some storms :( But we did it first thing today, and it was AMAZI NG.

First we went up a “sky tram”, which is essentially a gondola in the rain forest, and when we got off, we were treated with passion fruit juice(which was outrageously good). After that, we went down to test cables to figure out how we were going to do it. Then, we went on the first “actual” cable; It was amazing because it was foggy, which made it fun to look down at the rainforest. After that, we went down four more cables that were less foggy but faster and longer. Finally we got done, and we were all extremely proud and at a point of ecstasy. Essentially, it was one of the best “aabenture”, that is how our guide Fabian says it. We loved every moment of it.

Gracias!

~~~ Christopher Drummond

Fog of No Return!!!

2010-07-12T18:37:00.001-07:00

When zip lining in the jungle today we went through fog. When in the belly of the beast you couldn’t see more than a foot in front of you. IT WAS INSANE!!!!! The whole zip lining process felt like it took only 20 minutes, but it actually took a little over an hour. The top speed of the trip was 48.4 mph. they should somehow engineer a zip line to do a loop-D-loop going over 90 mph. Now that sounds exhilarating to me:D Oh yes, and if you weren’t watching world cup witch I don't know why you wouldn’t be watching because soccer(el futbol) is an outrageously epic ball of fun…get it, “ball” of fun.HAA!! ok well Spain won, witch disappointed the soccer gods because we all know Italy is the king of soccer:) Blog out

By:JOE CASTALDO

Volcano

2010-07-12T18:36:00.003-07:00

After we realized that our hotel was pretty close, and had an superb view of, the volcano, we decided to go swimming in the pool and chillax in the Jacuzzi. After about a half hour of swimming the pool, which has a waterfall and an infinity end, we thought we would jump in the Jacuzzi. So here we were in the Jacuzzi talking to some people from Arizona that said that you can only see the volcano erupt from the other side of the volcano. After those people left, we were discussing with Mr Hirschey of our mad we were that our hotel wasn’t on the other side of the volcano, so we could see it erupt. After about 10 minutes of that conversation, Mr Hirschey decided to leave to clean up for dinner. Shortly after he left, we were just sitting talking about some random topic when we saw this orange lava shoot out of the volcano. We instantly jumped up and said “Did you see that?” After we all agreed that it actually happened we ran to find Mr Hirschey because we thought about how mad he would be if he missed it. It turns out that he actually saw it as well. We all thought that this experience was so amazing that it wasn’t even funny. We are hoping that we will see more and that we will even capture it in photograph. I am so glad that our hotel is right next to the volcano because it is amazing.

~~~Christopher Drummond & Morgan Miller

Iguana Madness

2010-07-12T18:36:00.001-07:00

After zip lining today, witch was extremely outrageous, just for your information.HAHA:) Anyway we stopped at “Las Iguanas” witch is a nice little restaurant that has quite a population of iguanas. Here are a few photos taken by yours truly *JOE CASTALDO*

Amphibians

2010-07-12T18:28:00.001-07:00

During our trip to Costa Rica we have found many different amphibians. We have found newts, geckos, and iguanas. All of the students and leaders have found this extremely cool. The first day, we found a gecko. But when we got to the second hotel, we found many newts; some even on our doors and porches. And today we went to a “iguana hangout”, their were literally about 70 iguanas at this resturant/igunana park. Seeing so many amphibians on this trip has been priceless and amazing!

~~~Christopher Drummond

Farming Experience

2010-07-12T18:27:00.001-07:00

i just got to try and see how to make cheese. I never knew there was so much involved. It’s really cool and different to see how they make the cheese.

It takes a lot of time to make the cheese and how much patience is involved in it

By:Austin Lotts

Iguanas & Ice Cream

2010-07-12T18:25:00.001-07:00

One of the kids in our group recently tried a dragonfruit ice cream flavor yesterday, so when we made a stop all of us tried the unique flavor. It is very fruity and has a neon purple color. It is very good, and unlike any other ice cream flavor I have had before. The place we stopped at also had many iguanas! Fabian threw out lettuce and bananas and all of them swarmed towards the food. There were so many!! Different sizes and colors, and we counted around 65-70 iguanas! Carrie got lots of great photos of them.

Ceara & Carrie

Day 4

2010-07-12T06:18:00.001-07:00

Day 4 brought the rain that we were anticipating as part of our Costa Rican adventure. It did not start out that way.

After checking out of our hotel, we drove deep into the country to help the Costa Rican reforestation efforts. The group planted 192 trees on a family farm where reforestation will be key to replenishing a substantial home for the Green Macaw.

We planted on the farm of Marvin and Maria and their adorable daughter Kimberly. Kimberly is 4 years old and knew her way around the farm. As a thank you for the work we did, Maria and Marvin served us fresh fruit (of course!) which included fresh pineapple and coconut juice. Marvin literally lopped the tops off of the coconuts, stuck a straw in and we drank. Very refreshing after a hard mornings work.

Our drive to the Arenal volcano included multiple stops for food and fun. We watched the 1st half of the World Cup final at an amazing restaurant which served amazingly fresh rice pudding for dessert.

The final activity was maybe the most anticipated. Zip lining. After seeing storms build on our way up the mountain, the skies opened up and an amazingly beautiful thunderstorm erupted. We watched the thunderstorm from the mountain then again back at our hotel. We caught glimpses of Arenal erupting in and out of the rain and storms.

Zip lining has been delayed and we will be partaking in the amazing two-mile adventure this morning. More pics and stories to follow!

Ocean Waves…

2010-07-11T06:43:00.003-07:00

Today we visited the ocean. We went swimming,kayaking, biking, snorkeling, and body surfing! Although the weather wasn’t as sunny as we’d like it to be, we got some great waves coming into the beaches.

Kayaking

Although the waves stopped us from kayaking on schedule, we convinced the guides to allow us to go to the second beach; Where we decided that any “brave,courageous soul” could take out a kayak and try to go either into or past the waves. This provided a challenge to any person that decided to attempt to take on the waves. We definitely had an amazing time with the kayaks.

Snorkeling

Snorkeling was fun. Even though it was extremely wavy and shook up the coral and fish, we had fun. It was kind of fun because we were soo close to the coral and fish. Actually, some people even realized that as the stood up, they were on top of it!

Body Surfing

After kayaking, we decided to see if we could catch some waves. So, with our international orange colored life vests, we went out to the ocean to meet with the waves. The waves were an estimated 10 feet high! About 9 of us went out to meet the waves. The waves were…in one word, AMAZING! The only thing that I feel I can compare them to is the rouge wave in the movie Poseidon. I was amazed at how big and fun they were. This was probably the funniest part of the time we spent in the ocean and on the beaches.

Today

Overall, think that today was great! Some of us even want to come back, after we graduate, so we can track down some of the “gnarly” waves again! I think that the time spent on the ocean was,no doubt about it, the time of our life!

Also…

So far the trip has been great! And completely mesmerizing. I am think this goes with out saying but on behalf of every student, “ We are totally grateful and glad that al of the parents worked hard to allow us to go on this trip!”

~~~ Christopher Drummond

Kayaking

2010-07-11T06:43:00.001-07:00

Today I went kayaking in the ocean. The waves were 10-15 feet high! We paddled out 240 feet, Then, we turned around to go back to shore. As we got about 80 feet from shore, we caught a big wave; And it threw us head over heels and I got hit in the back by the kayak. It was a neat experience.

Morgan Miller

Bri Bri Village Visit

2010-07-11T06:07:00.001-07:00

Motor boats took us on an hour and a half long boat ride through olive green water. We glided smoothly on the river that bordered Panama and Costa Rica. When the river became too shallow, the front boatman would use a tall bamboo stick to push off the ground and propel us forward. The scenery surrounding us was spectacular. I felt like I was in a travel magazine. I slowly took it all in, still amazed at the fact that I was in the middle of the jungle in Costa Rica. We arrived at a river bank and were greeted by a few very welcoming villagers, they held our hands firmly and helped us out of the unstable boat.

We hiked through winding, narrow paths that were muddy from the monsoons that had occurred a few days earlier. A major leader and founder of the Bri Bri village and organization led the way through the thick vegetation. The sun played peek-a-boo between the leaves in the canopy and the spaces of visible sky. A variety of tropical trees and bushes loomed over our heads.

At the village we learned about the cacao plants, ate lunch and made fresh 100% dark chocolate. The dark chocolate alone left a bitter taste in your mouth, but with just a bit of sugar it transformed into a heavenly treat. I bought a souvenir and drank authentic, black Costa Rican coffee with rock sugar. Before we had lunch, we had the opportunity to refresh ourselves and swim in the cool, crisp river water. I enjoyed climbing up the rocks and sliding down the rapids. I almost touched an ugly brown spider, literally the size my palm, while trying to find a big enough crevice in the rock to put my left hand.

The villagers led a simple, uncomplicated life. Their economy revolved mainly around their exportation of chocolate and bananas. Three women founded the organization and village, now there are fifteen main women in charge. These women broke away from their suffocating, patriarchal society to from a productive, feminist society that produced all organic goods. They are all very proud of their work. The village also included an outdoor hotel, a primary school and a secondary school. The residents of the village were kind and hospitable. I had an amazing time visiting the Bri Bri village.

~ Nikita

Night Hike

2010-07-11T06:06:00.001-07:00

We got to go on a night hike last night. It was such a peaceful place, the nocturnal sounds of the forest provided a soothing backdrop as we looked for animals and insects. Below is a link to our GPS track.

GPS track

Kayaking in the Caribbean

2010-07-11T05:36:00.001-07:00

The larger than life crashing waves of the Caribbean formed a problem for those of us who wanted to kayak. But it didn’t stop us from experiencing a true adventure. Even though it was tough, and it took several tries, we conquered the huge waves and kayaked in the Caribbean. It was an amazing experience! To know that we persevered through the challenges that nature presented and were able to come out successful was a great feeling. This experience is one that will last a lifetime.

- Tiffany Vera

Pura vida!

2010-07-11T05:34:00.001-07:00

We have been having the time of our lives experiencing so many adventures with such amazing students! The fun simply doesn’t stop! We can’t believe how much we are all learning! We are tasting new fruits and foods, learning how to make chocolate and build structures with materials of the forest, kayaking waves, snorkeling, opening coconuts, watching waves crash at night, freeing baby turtles into the sea, moving at 25 mph in dugout canoes, discovering new animals, and etc… and so far… very few bugs and no rain!!!! And the kids are awesome!!! Thank you DSA!!!

Joel & Tearney

Chocolate making and Bananas

2010-07-11T05:24:00.001-07:00

Yesterday we spent the day with the Bribri people at their organic station. They showed us how to make chocolate in the traditional way which was pretty cool. The cacao is ground with a big stone to remove the shells. To separate the shells from the ground cacao, the cacao is flipped in the air! The shells will be blown away while the cacao falls back into the container. It’s then ground further in a grinder and takes on the look of melted chocolate because the oils in the cacao are released. Condensed milk is then added along with sugar. The result tastes great with bananas! This was definitely something we won’t forget.

~Carrie & Ceara

Day 3 Wrap up

2010-07-11T04:55:00.000-07:00

It was another fabulous day in Costa Rica!

After a little later wake up call, we headed out for kayaking, bicycling and snorkeling. We biked about two miles to a beach for snorkeling. While snorkeling, we were able to see some fish and a whole lot of coral. It was beautiful coral and very colorful.

Kayaking was very challenging with big waves, but several of the students were up for the opportunity to kayak out to the calm water and ride the waves back.

After a "light" lunch, we headed away from the Caribbean (we will miss you). On our way to our accomodations for the evening, we stopped at a fruit stand with the most fresh fruit many of us had ever tasted. We sampled many fruits we had never even heard of, let alone tasted. The richness and diversity of the fruits is awe-inspring. There was a type of fruit for everyone!

We decided that we have tasted at least 16 different types of fruit on this trip. Some are relatively common (bananas, mangoes for example) while others are amazingly unique to Costa Rica (soursop, sour guava and others).

After arriving at our hotel for the evening, we went on a night walk through the Tirimbina Rainforest. Our guide showed us amazing wildlife including a four-inch preying mantis, spiders the size of ones hand, among many others.

All were ready for a good night's rest before reforestation and ziplining tomorrow. The students are extremely excited for this part of the adventure.

It is awe-inspiring to see students overcome their fears of bugs, bridges (did we mention an 800 foot bridge into the rainforest?) and food on this adventure. Also, the perserverance of the students when faced with adversity. The parents should truly be proud of their students.

Food :D

2010-07-10T18:38:00.001-07:00

The food we have eaten throughout the trip has been fabulous. All the tropical fruits have been of a different taste than the ones back home. My personal opinion is that Costa Rican food ,in general, is better. We do eat a lot of rice and beans though.

This was the first dish we had in Costa Rica

By: JOE CASTALDO

A day with the Bri Bri

2010-07-09T17:03:00.001-07:00

Today we went to Yorkin, a Bri Bri community. The Bri Bri are one of several indigenous tribes in Costa Rica. Today we got to explore the community and learn about how the Bri Bri live in the rainforest and produce cacao, bananas and other products.

One of the highlights of the day was making organic chocolate. We separated the skins from the seeds and then ground them up to make a cacao paste. Then sweetened condensed milk was added. This made the best chocolate I’ve ever tasted. I’m sold on Yorkin Chocolate! Now, how do I get find it at home?

New view of Sloths!

2010-07-09T16:48:00.001-07:00

I have to say, my idea of sloths has completely changed! I always thought they were ugly disease infested creatures that were completely lazy… but actually these creatures aren’t lazy, just slow… and aren’t ugly, but actually kind of cute… and not actually full of parasites at all! Having a blast!

~~~Joel

Coconuts and Caribbean Seas

2010-07-09T16:47:00.001-07:00

Having tons of fun in Costa Rica! Ceara got “Happy Birthday” sung to her by our tour guide and the rest of our group. Spent the afternoon swimming in the ocean…smashing coconuts and trying coconut milk….stumbling upon a puffer fish in the waves….and watching baby sea turtles race to the water.

~~Carrie&Ceara

Costa Rica Day 2

2010-07-09T16:46:00.003-07:00

Today we visited a “sloth sanctuary” we learned about sloths and took a canoe ride through a creek we saw about a thousand crabs and a bunch of birds including a hummingbird and its nest.

-Eddie

Beaches…

2010-07-09T16:46:00.001-07:00

After an already long day. we decided that we would check out the beach by the hotel. We had a very interesting time checking out coconut trees and coral covered volcanic rock. As we went down the beach, we thought we would try a coconut; we probably spent more time and energy on opening the coconut then we did actually drinking/eating the coconut. We are definitely having a great time in Costa Rica especially the beaches…

---Christopher Drummond

Seeing a Sloth

2010-07-09T16:45:00.001-07:00

Went to a really cool sloth rescue place and touched a sloth. They’re a lot cooler up close. the little guys a definitely well adapted for survival. I like that they also never frown, they always smile.

Sincerely,

Jon DeWolf

The Rambutan

2010-07-09T16:44:00.001-07:00

Apples, oranges, and grapes are some of the fruits we eat in America. During our first meal in Costa Rica I along with Teyra encountered an exotic fruit known as the rambutan. The rambutan is a red prickly little oval fruit. To eat it, you have to peel the skin to eat the sweet grape like fruit inside. It was delicious! I can’t wait to try new food!

- Tiffany Vera

Mariposas(Butterflies)

2010-07-09T16:43:00.003-07:00

After driving for an hour or so we had stopped at this rest stop and during the stop the group entered this butterfly sanctuary. The room was filled with these beautiful butterflies. The main butterfly was the Great Owl Butterfly. The Great Owl had landed on me and it was a pretty great experiance. We also saw a blue jean frog which is poisonious so I made sure to keep my distance. This was like no other rest stop i’ve been to.

-Teyra Anderson

100% Organic Chocolate

2010-07-09T16:43:00.001-07:00

One of the highlights of today was eating organic chocolate. Strait out of the grinder it was pretty bad. one you added condensed milk it was the best chocolate you have ever tasted. just to add another exciting thing we did right after we ate lunch we went to the river and swam in it. during swimming many of us got cuts and bruised due to bumping into rocks from the strong current.

~~~ Joe Castaldo

Sloths

2010-07-09T16:42:00.001-07:00

My recently found friend, Curious George, is a sloth. He is extremely hairy. His fur is very thick,to keep him warm, layered. much like human hair.

I also got to get my picture taken with Buttercup, the Queen of the Sanctuary.

The baby sloths I saw were extremely cute and funny. One was even doing sit-ups XP

~~~ Austin Lotts

Chocolate, Cascades in a Canoe, and … Marco Polo!

2010-07-09T16:41:00.001-07:00

Today we visited an aboriginal village. Where we saw many different types of fruits and plants, made chocolate, and ate one nifty meal.

The chocolate making process is extremely interesting because of how the aboriginals have configured the process. It is actually quite simple.

The Chaco Beans and the freshly ground Chocolate

In order to get to the aboriginal village, we had to take a canoe to the village. It was a very fun and crazy ride in the river that divides the Republic of Panama and the republic of Costa Rica.

And Marco Polo. during our free time at the hotel, we have played many games of Marco Polo in the pool. We have even convinced the “adults” to join in on the fun. We have also created many variations that have made the game even better!

Well since I have even picked up on some Spanish while down here, I would like to say…

ADIOS!!!

~~~Christopher Drummond

PS:

I like all of the lizard-like creatures!

Day ·2 - The day the adventure really started in Costa Rica!

2010-07-08T20:18:00.000-07:00

We had an incredible day in Costa Rica. The day was totally packed. Beginning with a breakfast and an early start, we headed through the mountainous region in central Costa Rica.

After viewing the 2nd largest National Park, the rainforest and the river, we headed to an afternoon with the sloths. At the sloth rehabilitation center, Aviarios del Carabe, we were introduced to multiple sloths, including Buttercup. who posed for a few pictures with each of us.

Then, a dugout canoe ride through the jungle reserve yielded views of exotic birds, fish, iguanas and more sloths! Following the bus ride back to our new accomodations near Limon, we experienced the Caribbean Sea in all its glory. Our hotel neighbors the Caribbean and offered the chance for a little afternoon downtime.

The highlight of the day for many of the students was in the evening. At sunset, students were able to release seven (7) Leatherback turtle babies into the Caribbean. These turtles were less than eight hours old! The students were able to help nest and encourage the turtles to adapt to their new home.

Finally a presentation about sea turtles, a fabolous dinner and off to bed before another early wake-up call tomorrow!

Enjoy a few pictures. Many of the students have blogged their experiences, pictures and thoughts and they will be uploaded tomorrow. Pura Vida!

2010-07-08T10:22:00.000-07:00

Congratulations to our Follow Me contest winner, Joseph Castaldo. Joseph received an Discovery Student Adventures engraved iPod Touch for gathering the most followers on this Costa Rica travel blog. ROCK ON, Joseph!

We’re in Costa Rica!

2010-07-08T05:07:00.001-07:00

Everyone arrived safely, though about 40 minutes late.

Stepping into the Costa Rican night was like stepping into a steam bath for this Northwesterner. The air was so thick you could cut it with a knife. When I met Fabian, our travel manager, he was wearing a jacket! Even when I lived in Hawaii I never experienced humidity like this!

Fabian speaks excellent English, so I am finding it difficult to practice my Spanish. Fabian assures me that everyone will get a Spanish lesson on this trip.

Tomorrow, SLOTHS!

Arrival in Costa Rica!

2010-07-07T22:11:00.000-07:00

Each of the travelers have arrived safely and have checked into the hotel. The long day of travel each has encountered means early to bed, as we are preparing for the sloths tomorrow at Aviarios del Caribe! Buenas Noches!

Bradey Day

World's Game?

2010-07-07T22:03:00.000-07:00

Our world travelers arrived in Miami to the world's game. Just before their arrival, nearly 300 people sat around each of the televisions in the terminal at Miami International Airport to watch Spain defeat Germany. Literally, near the televisions, there was no place to walk!

Manana nos vamos para Costa Rica!

2010-07-06T15:56:00.001-07:00

Tomorrow we leave for Costa Rica and I am so excited!

I got all my stuff packed, and now I’m just waiting for the time to pass. Base camp gave me so many gadgets to document our adventure that I now have to check a bag rather than going with just my carry-on. Of course being the tech geek that I am I added a few.

Laptop – Mine, I only share if you ask nicely!
Netbook – So you can all blog about your adventures.
Camera – So we can see all of your smiling faces!
GPS – I want to track any hiking we do, plus we can see how fast we go in the zip lines!
Underwater video camera – for underwater video goodness. I had to arm wrestle for it!
SPOT Satellite Messenger – for telling Base Camp where we are.

So I need some ideas about how we can mashup and use some of these things. I’m thinking about using the GPS, our cameras and Google Earth or Everytrail.com to show where our pictures were taken. I’m sure there are other things we can do as well.

Thanks for putting up with me why I geek out a bit. I look forward to meeting all of you in San Jose. Have an awesome flight!

-- Geoff
DSA’s head geek

Pack Smart for your Adventure!

2010-07-02T10:23:00.000-07:00

Once your flight takes off there’s no looking back so make sure you’re a perfect packer. Travelers, take note!! It is rainy season in Costa Rica so make sure you avoid clothes that won’t dry quickly. Nylon and spandex are great; cotton, not so good.

Here are our suggestions:

Carry-On Bag: We suggest a small backpack that rests on both shoulders. You will carry this during our activities, so make sure it is ready for an active journey and is comfortable!
• Cell phone, IPod, anything electronically powered
• Book, notepad and pens
• Camera and film/memory card, batteries; a waterproof bag to hold camera
• Sunglasses
• Comb/brush tissues
• 3 oz. maximum amounts of personal hygiene items in Ziploc bag
• Deodorant
• Toothbrush & toothpaste
• 1 change of clothing
• Snacks; must be professionally and individually packaged
Checked baggage:
• Cotton or lightweight long pants (convertible style pants work great!)
• 2 pairs comfortable walking shorts
• 7 t-shirts, or other comfortable lightweight
• short-sleeved shirts
• Windbreaker/ light sweater / sweatshirt
• 2 long-sleeved shirts for layering and sun protection
• At least 7 changes of underwear/socks
• 1-2 bathing suits with cover-up
• Pajamas
• Poncho for rain
• Comfortable walking/hiking shoes with good ankle support and rubber soles
• Sandals
• Sun Protection: Hat, sunglasses, waterproof sunblock and Lip balm
• Waterproof insect repellent
• Laundry detergent (purchase individual pouches)
• Empty reusable water bottle/canteen
• Shampoo/conditioner/soap
• Personal Items such as sanitary supplies, shaving kits/cosmetics

Getting excited!

2010-06-23T14:43:00.001-07:00

Hello to all traveling on the July 7 trip to Costa Rica. My name is Bradey Day and I am an Adventure Specialist with Discovery Student Adventures who has worked with most of the families traveling on this trip. In addition, I will be joining you for this adventure.

I cannot wait to meet you all in person and experience the amazing destination that is Costa Rica. The trips have all been unbelieveable to hear about as students and teachers have returned.

Hope you are all prepared and do not hesitate to call us with any last minute questions (1.866.963.3417).

Boots? - Check!

2010-06-21T15:21:00.000-07:00

I went to get some new boots for my trip. My leather ones take DAYS to dry once they get soaked and according to Alix they are going to get soaked in CR.

When I told the salesperson where I was going, he handed me a pair of Merrell Moab Ventilators. He said these are the boots that I wanted, they let the water in but they dry quick.

I tested them out while hiking with my kids, I was purposely stepping in the creeks to get them wet! They did the job, my feet got wet but they were dry again within a few minutes. Just what I need!

So I can check boots off my packing list! How's your packing going?

BTW, this is not an endorsement of Merrell boots by DSA. I just happen to like mine and thought I would pass it along.

WISE words of advise from Costa Rica

2010-06-16T15:02:00.001-07:00

The students from Amarillo, New Orleans, and DC had some words of advise...

DON'T leave home withOUT
Madison...dry-fit clothes
Alan...spending money & a way to call your mom to deposit MORE money!
Joe...more than one pair of shoes
Nathaniel...extra socks

Brenda...pants, NOT jeans, to wear through the rainforest
Desiree...pepto chewables
Miranda...travel detergent
Alex-the Driver...OLD shoes, they will get EXTRA muddy & EXTRA wet!
Danny-OUR AWESOME Travel Manager...your best dance moves, with your Idol voice (poonchi, poonchi, poonchi)
Ms. G **especially for the teachers... everything that your wonderful students will FORGET...
Alix (me)...a flashlight!

and the WHOLE GROUP says..."bring your appetite for BEANS & RICE!"

From our new found love, Costa Rica....Pura Vida!

First Follow Me Contest Winner Announced

2010-06-08T22:31:00.000-07:00

Congratulations to Madison M.! She is our Follow Me Contest winner for our June 8th trip to Costa Rica. Way to go, Madison! Students, you too can earn a chance to win a free iPod Touch. Just get as many people as you can to register to follow your blog by directing them to DiscoveryStudentsAdventures.com/destinations/blogs. Let them know what dates you are traveling and ask them to register to follow you on your adventures this summer. Good luck!!!