My experience with CEA CAPA so far has been amazing; we have been exposed to the wonders of Costa Rica, its culture, and its sights. There has been a diverse and vibrant mix of wildlife, beauty, and nature.  

From farm to cup, Franco in Barrio Escalante set the stage for Costa Rican coffee 

Watching sunsets and flipping perspectives in Manuel Antonio National Park 

Getting an insider look at the wildlife and fauna at Manuel Antonio 

Our first adventure with the program was with Franco’s in Barrio Escalante. We went from farm to cup and beyond, exploring how coffee is cultivated and where tradition meets innovation. We were then given an amazing dinner and got to know the students in the program.  

A quick stop on the road but a lasting memory with this stunning Longhorn 

From there we went to Manuel Antonio National Park on the Pacific side of Costa Rica where we were met with the best tour guide who showed us all the hidden spiders, crabs, snakes, and sloths! The day ended with a beautiful sunset after a long day at the beach, and at every hotel, we were met with a relaxing and unique experience. Each stop along the way was different, one in particular had Longhorns and horses.  

From the scenic countryside we next visited the suspended tranquility of Monteverde’s cloud forest. Soaring over the forest, we embraced the beauty of the world, embracing Costa Rica’s landscapes and watching the world slow down.  

Suspended between the trees in Monteverde 

Where the world slows down and the only thing that matters is the glow of green peace 

We then dove into some culture of Costa Rica, chopping, cooking, and savoring the flavors of traditional soup and rice pudding. The chocolate tour in La Fortuna was one to remember, we learned of different plants and their purposes in old times. This included a plant that helps with hangovers and a fruit that can stain your skin, which the boys learned the hard way, as our tour guide told them to close their eyes and had the girls paint their faces.  

From chopping veggies to perfecting soups, learning to cook like a local 

A cozy corner outside the cooking class 

We were also introduced to the complex process of making chocolate, which includes roasting the beans, grinding them, removing the shells, and then grinding them again into a paste. We were given leaves to mix different ingredients like coffee, brown sugar, salt, turmeric, vanilla, and more.  

Tasting the richness of Costa Rica with a chocolate tour in La Fortuna 

Hidden gem of the beaten path 

My last adventure in La Fortuna was off the beaten path, at an iconic rope swing, and spontaneous, unforgettable memories with friends. This collection of images has given me time to reflect on the connections I’ve experienced with the people and places of this wonderful country.