San Jose, affectionately known to its residents as 'Chepe', lies in the heart of Costa Rica and is home to almost two-thirds of the country’s population. With few buildings over 100 years old, the mountainous capital is relatively modern compared to its Latin American counterparts, but still has a significant amount of culture, art and history for visitors to discover. With a number of theatres full of Costa Rican culture, museums that include the largest collection of American jade in the world, and streets full of bright murals and painted buses, San Jose is an eclectic city waiting to be experienced.
The Arenal Volcano erupted violently July 29th 1968 destroying the region west of its base with hot gases, rocks and later, lava flows. Today the volcano steams quietly and heats local rivers that have been developed into popular hot springs and spas. Forest vegetation is quickly returning and covering the massive rock fragments and lava flows, and rain forest wildlife once again flourishes in and around the park.
Tucked between the slopes of Miravalles Volcano and Tenorio Volcano in a verdant valley south of Upala, Bijagua de Upala, also known simply as Bijagua, is a small farming community set on the border of Guanacaste and Alajuela. This remote village is a rustic retreat, perfectly placed as a gateway to the famous Tenorio Volcano National Park. Outdoor lovers can enjoy a scenic trek along the trails and watch the hypnotic torrent of the Rio Celeste Waterfall as it plunges into the turquoise waters of the Blue Lagoon. After hours of exploring the forest’s leafy landscape, weary travellers can enjoy a leisurely soak in the park’s thermal hot springs. Don’t miss a visit to the Heliconias Rainforest Lodge, where visitors can traverse the network of trails and suspension bridges set amid lush rainforest.
Sandwiched between the hustle and bustle of Playa del Coco and Playa Panama on the western coast of Guanacaste Province in Costa Rica, lies Playa Hermosa; a sanctuary of relaxation. Hermosa, the Spanish translation for beautiful, is a testament to this tropical haven with its golden shores, marine-rich turquoise waters and lush greenery, all just metres apart. Boasting warm inviting waters, visitors can surf the powerful breaks, enjoy a leisurely kayak along the bay and snorkel amidst the ocean’s rich dive sites featuring volcanic rock, vibrant coral gardens and spectacular marine life. Those seeking an inland experience can indulge in decadent cuisine, meander around the many shops that line the beach or venture further out for a day trip to the spectacular Arenal Volcano.
