Travels to Central Valley
Costa Rica is often synonymous with adventure, pristine beaches and active volcanoes: in short, a paradise for the eco-tourist and wildlife enthusiast. While rainforest treks and canopy tours are commonly recounted, you seldom hear visitors raving about the souvenirs or handicrafts they picked up on their journey. For those in search of traditional woodworking and true craftsmanship in Costa Rica, a visit to the artisan town of Sarchí is a must. Located in the Central Valley among rolling hills and sugar cane plantations, Sarchí is the arts and crafts capital of the country. Less than …
Location: Central Valley, Grecia and Sarchi »
Activities: Shopping »
I had always heard wonderful stories from other travelers about The Butterfly Farm, located on the outskirts of Alajuela. The words magical and serene were frequently used to describe their experiences in the enclosed butterfly garden, housing some 52 species of butterflies. Although I am slightly biased when it comes to Costa Rica’s wildlife (furry creatures with inquisitive personalities have always topped my list), I was eager to visit The Butterfly Farm and take part in one of their two-hour guided tours. I was hoping to get up close and personal with a morpho, the …
Location: Alajuela, Central Valley »
Activities: Bird & Wildlife Watching »
I woke up early today, excited about my morning tour of Doka Estate, one of the oldest and largest working coffee plantations in the country. A longtime fan of their Tres Generaciones coffee, I was eager to learn more about the source of this caffeinated gold. Coffee has been an integral part of the Costa Rican economy and culture since the early 19th century when it was first planted in the rich volcanic soils of the Central Valley. Having grown up in a strict Maxwell House (with the occasional Folgers), I now appreciate the bold …
Location: Alajuela, Central Valley »
Activities: Coffee Tours »
