Our Anniversary Adventure: From Miami’s Shores to Costa Rica’s Rain Forests
Francisco and I recently celebrated our 30th anniversary, and what better way to mark this milestone than with an adventure through Miami, Panama City, and Costa Rica? Let me take you on a journey through our unforgettable trip.
Our adventure began in Miami, where we immersed ourselves in the vibrant culture of Little Havana. Strolling down Calle Ocho, we savored Cubano sandwiches and sipped Mojitos. We then hopped on bikes, exploring South Beach's stunning art deco architecture and soaking in the gentle breezes. Our Miami experience wouldn't be complete without a visit to the Wynwood Walls, where the youthful art scene captivated us.
Next, we flew to Panama City, stepping into the past in the charming Casco Viejo, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Our stay in a building from 1674 was like time traveling! The highlight was seeing the Panama Canal, sipping drinks at the Amador Causeway, and marveling at Frank Gehry's Biosphere Museum. We were struck by the impressive skyline, especially our favorite building, the F&F Tower, affectionately known as 'The Screw'.
Costa Rica was our next destination. Landing in San Jose, we shuttled to La Fortuna, near the majestic Arenal Volcano. Our lodging was nestled on a serene farm, where the night sounds of birds and frogs lulled us to sleep. At the Eco Termales hot springs, we enjoyed flower-adorned cocktails amidst lush gardens and soothing pools.
Seeking a thrill, we tried ATV riding at the volcano's base. Let's just say, we weren't the fastest in the group, but what we lacked in speed, we made up for in laughter and enjoyment! The hanging bridges at Mistico park were another highlight, offering a breathtaking canopy view of the rainforest and playful monkeys going about their day.
A time-saving water taxi across Lake Arenal and another shuttle brought us closer to the Monteverde Cloud Forest. Greeted by White-nosed Coatis, our experience was already off to an exciting start. The Orchid Garden in La Fortuna was educational and enchanting, with its tiny orchids and rare scents.
At the Monteverde Butterfly Gardens, we were surrounded by fluttering beauty, including the stunning Blue Morpho, and even encountered some fascinating insects. Our favorite hike was in El Tigre Waterfall Park, a mesmerizing trail of waterfalls and swimming holes, capped off with a horseback ride and delicious Gallo Pinto.
Our trip concluded in San Jose, where we immersed ourselves in the city's culture, visiting the Gold and Jade Museums and tasting exotic fruits. The Costa Rican Colones, with their beautiful nature scenes, were a visual treat to see and spend. Our final experience was a cooking class in a commercial photographer's studio, filled with cross-cultural conversations and delicious dining.
While Portland was in the grips of winter, we were soaking in the warmth and wonders of these incredible destinations. If you're ever curious about traveling to any of these places, Francisco and I would love to share more of our experiences.
Until next time,
Kim (and Francisco)
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