San Jose, Costa Rica

Vibrant city, full of history, architecture, and colors!

Seibel Boots

These boots are over 10 years old and have been all over the world! When they started to fall apart, I couldn't bring myself to toss them. You should have heard the gasps I made as a Kalihi cobbler began tearing it apart to begin the healing process. The treat was the complimentary shoe shine at LAX. Good as new!

Churros con Chocolate

I credit my high school Spanish teacher, Señora Chang with instilling a passion for traveling. My fellow classmates would ask her questions about her travels and she gladly shared her stories with no abandon. The stories would take the place of lessons and before you know it, the bell would ring for the next period. What others saw as a way out of work, I viewed Señora Chang's stories as the catalyst for wanting to see the world! I vividly remember a poster in her class showing a young girl feasting on churros con chocolate and I would tell myself, "I want to do that!" I got to feast on churros con chocolate in the Plaza Mayor, Spain in 2001 when I was pregnant with Anna! We got to feast on this decadent treat TOGETHER in San Jose!

Robin's Cafe & Ice Cream

Tourists in Nosara are health conscious and Robin's Cafe is packed with trim, attractive, almost vegan patrons. Anna and I needed a sugar fix and Robin's homemade ice cream was the perfect treat in the hot and humid jungle!

Rancho Tico

My favorite restaurant, located in the pueblo of Nosara. The highlight of the trip were the evenings we shared with new friends from all over the world. Stories of surf experiences, afternoon outings, and the challenges of getting to Nosara were shared at dinner!

Arroz con Pollo

Translation: Rice with chicken is a meal popular in Central and South Americas. I found it odd to have it served with french fries but my family enjoyed all the carbs!

Casado

As soon as we landed in San Jose, I asked a local, "What should I eat in Costa Rica?" She replied, "Casado," with no hesitation. Casado is a Costa Rican meal using rice, black beans, plantains, salad, a tortilla, and an optional entree which I always chose fish. The Spanish word casar means to marry and this dish is a marriage of all the ingredients. I longingly think about my next casado in Costa Rica.

The Cabinas

Tucked away on Calle Mango is the cabin that we called home for a week-quiet and clean in a beautiful, tropical setting. A quad to get to and from the beach and a fierce guard dog with a sweet disposition were a plus!

Playa Guiones

This beach is a beginner surfer's paradise.... when it's 1-2 feet. But when it's big, the waves are more challenging than being in Hawaii due to absence of channels, nonstop waves, and a long paddle out.

Safari Surf, Nosara, Costa Rica

A surf tour company based in Nosara, Costa Rica. A great hang out for surf, food, friends, and much more!

Yoga

Amidst a lush tropical surrounding is The Healing Centre at the Harmony Hotel. A daily rotation of yoga styles to satisfy any yogi in a gorgeous open air studio.

Ceviche

Before traveling to Costa Rica, I did my research on local delicacies and this is one dish that was recommended. Fresh fish mixed with tomatoes, cilantro, and lime juice. Muy delicioso!

Horseback Riding with Tico Tours

Surfing, heights, and riding an animal all give me anxiety but I force myself to combat my fears. The afternoon ride through beach and jungle was joyous, calming, and picturesque.

Happy Anniversary

It's been 19 years since we tied the knot. That's a long time considering statistics that say one in every two marriages will end in divorce. Sure, we drive each other crazy, we argue, and take separate vacations but I still love the guy after all these years. I still remember the memorable courtship, the fun wedding, and our joyous married life. I occasionally reread my wedding cards that wished us a happy, joyous life as husband and wife, and I want to confirm that me and Scott have lived that life! Thank you for all your blessings! I warn Scott to never buy me jewelry nor clothes for special occasions but this last minute Costa Rican holiday was the perfect gift.

Cafe de Paris

Yes...even in Costa Rica! Surf in the morning, horseback riding in the afternoon and sightseeing can build up an appetite. What a great ending to fantastic Costa Rican meals...French desserts. Tarts, croissants, linzer tortes, and the ever simple yet tasty, apple crumb cake.

Wildlife in Costa Rica

I remember someone describing Costa Rica similar to Kaneohe with much larger insects! There are bigger lizards in the form of iguanas but the country side is just ALIVE-sounds, sights, and taste! Everywhere you looked were scenes you wouldn't see at home.

Safari Surf Kitchen

Not only does safari offer excellent surf lessons but meals that are so delicious! I wish I could take home chefs Marissa and Alicia. This was the best guacamole I've ever had in my life-creamy, fresh, and the perfect condiment.

Safari Surf, Nosara

Owner and childhood friend of my husband's, Tyler Marsh runs this cool, surf school for the past 15 years in the town of Nosara. Everyone from all over the world flock to the northwest coast of Costa Rica for fun, sun, yoga, and surf. Did I mention this town hosts yoga retreats led by Shiva Rea, Seane Corn, and many others?