Documenting Costa Rica - All Photos © www.robertwatcher.com
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Journal Entry #25 - Posted on Friday February 27th, 2009 at 3:36 pm by Anne Watcher
It would be an understatement to say that it is hard to find a place to stay in Cahuita. The possibilities are endless but if you want a taste of the jungle, a cute thatched roof hut, hot water shower and reasonable price then look no farther than the Alby Lodge.
The life long dream of Yvonne and Thomas, Alby Lodge is situated right near the national park, the white sand beach and the downtown area of Cahuita. The entrance is about 200 m walk back along a cute side street of Cahuita, winding it's way through the sights and sounds of the town ending in a tropical paradise.
The life long dream of Yvonne and Thomas, Alby Lodge is situated right near the national park, the white sand beach and the downtown area of Cahuita. The entrance is about 200 m walk back along a cute side street of Cahuita, winding it's way through the sights and sounds of the town ending in a tropical paradise.
There are four small houses for rent, each made with natural materials and a style that fits right into the area. Each hut has room for 4 people, bathroom with hot water shower, fan and mosquito netting over each bed. We didn't need it for the mosquitoes but have to admit it added a touch of romance to our stay.
The front porch is the perfect place to relax, read a book or have a nap in the very comfortable hammock.
The front porch is the perfect place to relax, read a book or have a nap in the very comfortable hammock.
The choices of restaurants go on and on in Cahuita offering everything from Jamaican to Italian to typical Costa Rican, but if you get the urge to do a little cooking of your own a very well equipment common kitchen is located in a cute ranchero near the home and office. Every utensil, pot or pan or spice you might require is there for the using. Forgot the pop and beer, no problem, the fridge is stocked and you pay for them when you leave.
Games, cards, and reading material are also there if you get bored and want a little something else to do. Candles also can be lit for "atmosphere".
Games, cards, and reading material are also there if you get bored and want a little something else to do. Candles also can be lit for "atmosphere".
For me the fun part of staying here is the unique alarm clock that lives in the trees surrounding you. Go to bed a little early because at about 4 in the morning the Howler monkeys think it is time to get up. The sound is unbelievable, a little scary at first, but quite interesting to say the least. I think these calls could be used for special effects in "certain" movies, maybe they have already!!
As the sun rose and you venture outside the trees literally seem to be alive with active howler and capuchin monkeys. A real sight to behold as they swing and jump from tree to tree, care for the little ones and have breakfast.
As the sun rose and you venture outside the trees literally seem to be alive with active howler and capuchin monkeys. A real sight to behold as they swing and jump from tree to tree, care for the little ones and have breakfast.
If you want further information contact Yvonne at www.albylodge.com She is very helpful and quick to answer any questions. I'm sure you wouldn't be disappointed with this as you choice of lodging, we sure were not!!
Edited on Sunday March 1st, 2009 at 9:28 am
Journal Entry #24 - Posted on Thursday February 26th, 2009 at 9:01 pm by Anne Watcher
A trip to the Caribbean coast would not be complete without a leisurely stroll along the easy to walk trails of Cahuita National Park. Rob and I visited the park early in the morning when the bird's were lively and the animals actively moving throughout the tall trees.
Although Cahuita National Park is small in size (1067 hectares) when compared to it's many counterparts in Costa Rica, it certainly holds it's own when it comes to variety of animals, birds and vegetation. It is also home to Costa Rica's only coral reef, which is located around Cahuita Point and the park is quite often more regarded for this portion than for the part on land. Unfortunately much of the reef was destroyed during the 1991 earthquake but is making a comeback mainly due to being protected. Snorkeling is now only allowed while accompanied by a guide.
Opened in 1970 and found on the south end of the town of Cahuita the park is accessed here by a foot-bridge that crosses Kelly Creek. Entrance here is on a donation basis and is open between 6 am. and 6 pm. There is another entrance on the other side of the point at Vargas Station where an entrance fee-$6.00- is charged and camping facilities are located. The southern part of the park, south of Vargas Point, is off limits and is a protected turtle nesting area for leatherbacks, hawksbill and green sea turtles
Kelly Creek entrance to the park. This is were Kelly Creek
joins the Caribbean.
Although Cahuita National Park is small in size (1067 hectares) when compared to it's many counterparts in Costa Rica, it certainly holds it's own when it comes to variety of animals, birds and vegetation. It is also home to Costa Rica's only coral reef, which is located around Cahuita Point and the park is quite often more regarded for this portion than for the part on land. Unfortunately much of the reef was destroyed during the 1991 earthquake but is making a comeback mainly due to being protected. Snorkeling is now only allowed while accompanied by a guide.
Opened in 1970 and found on the south end of the town of Cahuita the park is accessed here by a foot-bridge that crosses Kelly Creek. Entrance here is on a donation basis and is open between 6 am. and 6 pm. There is another entrance on the other side of the point at Vargas Station where an entrance fee-$6.00- is charged and camping facilities are located. The southern part of the park, south of Vargas Point, is off limits and is a protected turtle nesting area for leatherbacks, hawksbill and green sea turtles
Kelly Creek entrance to the park. This is were Kelly Creek
joins the Caribbean.
The hiking trails are easy to walk and along the way you will enjoy the endless variety of jungle vegetation and sounds. Be careful to look down as the path is frequently crossed by busy masses of leaf-cutter ants. In total it is about a 4 mile hike following the beach and around the point down to the ranger station at Vargas. Don't be in a rush because you will want to stop to take a swim to cool off. Due to an abnormally wet dry season, the water is much higher than usual and waves are stronger so take caution but do enjoy the warm clear Caribbean water.
Sandy and well groomed trails invite you to go farther.
White sand and warm clear water meet at the shore.
Endless varieties of vegetation make for an enjoyable walk. One thing we
noticed throughout the park was that many plants grow and dwell as one.
These leaves looked plastic and I was sure someone had glued them on for a joke, upon
closer inspection, there were real.
Leaf Cutter Ants busy as usual.
Sandy and well groomed trails invite you to go farther.
White sand and warm clear water meet at the shore.
Endless varieties of vegetation make for an enjoyable walk. One thing we
noticed throughout the park was that many plants grow and dwell as one.
These leaves looked plastic and I was sure someone had glued them on for a joke, upon
closer inspection, there were real.
Leaf Cutter Ants busy as usual.
Cahuita Park is also home to a diverse variety of animals including agoutis, sloths,green iguanas, pacas, coatimundis, and of the course the popular troops of howler and capuchin monkeys.
This sloth was trying to get some sleep and didn't even notice us watching from below.
Howler Monkey having his breakfast.
This Capuchin monkey posed for the camera.
This sloth was trying to get some sleep and didn't even notice us watching from below.
Howler Monkey having his breakfast.
This Capuchin monkey posed for the camera.
Just a word of caution but snakes do abound in this part of the world and they love the national parks. As we were heading along looking for the swimming area, we saw this brightly coloured fellow having a rest not a foot off the path. It is a yellow eyelash palm viper and oh and by the way HE'S POISONOUS!
Yellow Eyelash Palm Viper
Yellow Eyelash Palm Viper
Cahuita is also a bird watcher's paradise. Macaws, toucans, kingfishers, parrots, herons and endless others call this home.
What a highlight for us to see this Keel-billed Toucan
What a highlight for us to see this Keel-billed Toucan
If you get a chance to visit the coral reef you will be treated to queen angel fish, parrot fish, manta rays, reef sharks and many other species (123 in total) of stunning, brightly colored fish swim alone or in schools. Octopus, lobster, eels, anemones and crabs hide among the coral. More than 35 species of coral are found here along with 128 species of algae, 140 species of mollusk and 44 crustacean species.
But if you are like us and visited when water was too rough for the trip you can be entertained by the various crabs that live on the shore and along the water's edge. We spent quite a while watching the blue fiddler crab pop in and out of his home. Some spots had so many living there that it was like an animated movie scene where they bob in and out as we walked along.
Blue Fiddler Crab
As Rob and I watched the waves roll in this little fellow sat down beside us to enjoy the view
also. House Geckos are common here as well as many parts of the world. A couple
even joined us at night.
But if you are like us and visited when water was too rough for the trip you can be entertained by the various crabs that live on the shore and along the water's edge. We spent quite a while watching the blue fiddler crab pop in and out of his home. Some spots had so many living there that it was like an animated movie scene where they bob in and out as we walked along.
Blue Fiddler Crab
As Rob and I watched the waves roll in this little fellow sat down beside us to enjoy the view
also. House Geckos are common here as well as many parts of the world. A couple
even joined us at night.
Edited on Friday February 27th, 2009 at 12:33 pm
Journal Entry #23 - Posted on Tuesday February 24th, 2009 at 12:28 am by Anne Watcher
A few days ago we received an email that was written all in Spanish. Although our Spanish has improved over last year it still leaves a lot to be desired. However we were able to get the main parts of the email.
Just before we headed home last year we ate at Pizza Hut in Alajuela and as usual Rob took a picture of the staff. We must have left our website address with them, because this email was from Erik - one of the guys in the photo. He proceeded to tell us that he was the one in glasses and the lady in the white blouse was or was to become his wife. He also said how much he enjoyed the photos of his country.
Here is the picture from last year:
http://asifweknow.com/index.php?pg=2&crnt=2643&type=1&year=2008
So today we felt like pizza and decided to return to see if they recognized us. While Erik wasn't there, Alexandrea (the one in the white blouse) was. We soon discovered that she recognized us and had phoned Erik to come to the store to see us. Soon he arrived with a big smile on his face and a hearty handshake. They gathered the whole staff around the front counter and Rob got a great updated shot of this year's staff.
left to right: Erick, Victor, Alexandra, Jackeline, Juan, Evette, Noel
Just before we headed home last year we ate at Pizza Hut in Alajuela and as usual Rob took a picture of the staff. We must have left our website address with them, because this email was from Erik - one of the guys in the photo. He proceeded to tell us that he was the one in glasses and the lady in the white blouse was or was to become his wife. He also said how much he enjoyed the photos of his country.
Here is the picture from last year:
http://asifweknow.com/index.php?pg=2&crnt=2643&type=1&year=2008
So today we felt like pizza and decided to return to see if they recognized us. While Erik wasn't there, Alexandrea (the one in the white blouse) was. We soon discovered that she recognized us and had phoned Erik to come to the store to see us. Soon he arrived with a big smile on his face and a hearty handshake. They gathered the whole staff around the front counter and Rob got a great updated shot of this year's staff.
left to right: Erick, Victor, Alexandra, Jackeline, Juan, Evette, Noel
Edited on Friday February 27th, 2009 at 5:41 pm
Journal Entry #22 - Posted on Saturday February 21st, 2009 at 12:01 pm by Anne Watcher
Although Costa Rica is not as rich as other countries when it comes to arts and crafts, it certainly has made it's mark with the Ox-Cart or Los Carretas. Bear in mind that even though the flashy ox-cart of today has little resemblance to the original rough cut, cane-framed vehicles of by gone days, the brightly painted oxcart holds a prominent place in the history of Costa Rica and it's economic development.
Original Wheel
Original Wheel
Dating back to the start of the 19th century and originally pulled by people, yes I said people, the oxcart was the prime source of transport for the family, coffee and other agricultural products. As the need for transporting these goods grew, the loads became too heavy and the people were replaced by ox. They were used well into the 20th century and seem to symbolize the self-reliance of the small Costa Rican farmer. Hauling their coffee beans from the Central Valley to Puntarenas on the Pacific coast, they were perfect for the country's dirt roads up and down the mountains. Even the wheel design, a Costa Rican original, was perfect for the sea of muck that the roads became in the rainy season. This spokeless wheel which was a cross between the Aztec disc and the Spanish spoked wheel was perfect as it cut right through the mud without becoming bogged down. They had to be strong and well made because it could mean financial ruin to the farmer if the trip was not successful.
Trips often took up to 15 days and because there were sometimes 10,000 squeaking oxcarts making their way to the coast, local economies benefitted. There was now a need for inns, work crews to maintain roads and smithies to fix any breakdowns along the way. On the way back home these farmers would fill their carts with goods to take back to their homes in the Central Valley.
So where did all those bright colours come from?? Well legend has it that a farmer got bored and decided to paint his wheels and it just sort of caught on. Others copied and soon each region had their own design so one could identify where the farmer was from simply by viewing the cart's design. At first bright colours and geometric patterns where used but around 1915 flowers started to appear. These depicted a peaceful way of life and a sensitive culture which would dignify a lowly work implement with such beauty. Landscapes and even faces started to appear after that. Annual contests, still going on today, were held to find the most creative artists. Along the way the carts were also tuned to make a distinct sound supposedly so the farmer could hear his workers. This was done by a metal ring striking the hubnut of each wheel. The oxcart had now crossed over from purely functional to a source of pride for it's owner and this brought about the use of better woods and greater care in their construction.
Great care and talent goes into the painting process
This cart left unpainted shows the beauty and quality of wood used.
Flowers mixed with geometric designs
Trips often took up to 15 days and because there were sometimes 10,000 squeaking oxcarts making their way to the coast, local economies benefitted. There was now a need for inns, work crews to maintain roads and smithies to fix any breakdowns along the way. On the way back home these farmers would fill their carts with goods to take back to their homes in the Central Valley.
So where did all those bright colours come from?? Well legend has it that a farmer got bored and decided to paint his wheels and it just sort of caught on. Others copied and soon each region had their own design so one could identify where the farmer was from simply by viewing the cart's design. At first bright colours and geometric patterns where used but around 1915 flowers started to appear. These depicted a peaceful way of life and a sensitive culture which would dignify a lowly work implement with such beauty. Landscapes and even faces started to appear after that. Annual contests, still going on today, were held to find the most creative artists. Along the way the carts were also tuned to make a distinct sound supposedly so the farmer could hear his workers. This was done by a metal ring striking the hubnut of each wheel. The oxcart had now crossed over from purely functional to a source of pride for it's owner and this brought about the use of better woods and greater care in their construction.
Great care and talent goes into the painting process
This cart left unpainted shows the beauty and quality of wood used.
Flowers mixed with geometric designs
Today as you travel the highways and byways of Costa Rica you can still see some of these oxcarts used by local farmers. Harvesting coffee beans is a tricky business and sometimes the old way just does it best.
Want to see how they are made? Thus our trip to Sarchi, the handicraft capital of Costa Rica. Along with endless furniture and wood products to take home, Sarchi has two oxcart manufacturers. Joaquin Chaverri is the oldest and you can visit his factory as you enter the town of Sarchi. Here they produce miniature replicas to larger carts that are designed to be used as planters or living room cocktail carts. Regardless of size they are all beautifully decorated in the traditional way. Speaking of size, drop by the central park to see the world's largest ox-cart. We did, even have the pictures to prove it!!!
Even I can play tourist given the right location
Close to the town's center is the other factory, that of Eloy Alfaro and Sons. Here they produce mainly one of a kind carts for special orders. What is so interesting about this factory is that it is done in the original way using mainly water powered tools, paper templates and freshly planed woods. The location it's self is in the original Hacienda la Eva, with the large old trees still gracefully growing in the yard. Take the time to wonder around, watch the artesians at work and enjoy a craft of yesteryear. Definitely a highlight during a trip to Sarchi. The factory is located on Calle Eva, 1 1/2 blocks north of Ruta 118.
Old original home where Taller Eloy Alfaro and Sons work today. The assembly
of the carts takes place on the upper level. You had to tread lightly as
the floor felt weak in spots to me.
Water powered planer
the water wheel
Painted carts sit under the old tree in front yard, a harmonious mix of old and new.
----
Want to see how they are made? Thus our trip to Sarchi, the handicraft capital of Costa Rica. Along with endless furniture and wood products to take home, Sarchi has two oxcart manufacturers. Joaquin Chaverri is the oldest and you can visit his factory as you enter the town of Sarchi. Here they produce miniature replicas to larger carts that are designed to be used as planters or living room cocktail carts. Regardless of size they are all beautifully decorated in the traditional way. Speaking of size, drop by the central park to see the world's largest ox-cart. We did, even have the pictures to prove it!!!
Even I can play tourist given the right location
Close to the town's center is the other factory, that of Eloy Alfaro and Sons. Here they produce mainly one of a kind carts for special orders. What is so interesting about this factory is that it is done in the original way using mainly water powered tools, paper templates and freshly planed woods. The location it's self is in the original Hacienda la Eva, with the large old trees still gracefully growing in the yard. Take the time to wonder around, watch the artesians at work and enjoy a craft of yesteryear. Definitely a highlight during a trip to Sarchi. The factory is located on Calle Eva, 1 1/2 blocks north of Ruta 118.
Old original home where Taller Eloy Alfaro and Sons work today. The assembly
of the carts takes place on the upper level. You had to tread lightly as
the floor felt weak in spots to me.
Water powered planer
the water wheel
Painted carts sit under the old tree in front yard, a harmonious mix of old and new.
----
Edited on Sunday February 22nd, 2009 at 1:40 pm
Journal Entry #21 - Posted on Friday February 20th, 2009 at 9:43 pm by Anne Watcher
Last year when we were here in Costa Rica, Rob and I marveled at the strength of the Leaf Cutter Ants as they carried that piece of leaf for what seemed miles. Today when we got off the bus from Sarchi we saw this fellow and two of his buddies. As if not to be out-done these three eager beavers had the whole dried up flower on their backs!!!! ABSOLUTELY AMAZING!! If only we could we could do that.
Edited on Friday February 20th, 2009 at 9:53 pm
Journal Entry #20 - Posted on Friday February 20th, 2009 at 8:50 pm by Anne Watcher
Sooner or later you knew food had to come up!!!! While we have been eating great local food as usual, this was the first new restaurant we have tried this year. Rob and I took a trip to Sarchi today to check out the ox cart business. We had been looking around a souvenir shop frequented by many tourists and although they had a restaurant we chose not to eat there. Right across the street was an inviting place, bright, cheery and a nice breeze blowing through. Are we glad we decided to eat there.
Delicias del Mar, located on the corner of Calle San Rafael and Ruta 118, is a seafood restaurant. Rob chose the Breaded Sea Bass and I had Arroz con Camarones (rice with shrimp). I really think it should of been Shrimp with Rice. Both meals were "muy bueno" and even though I had ordered the small portion, it was more than I could eat. Rob's Sea Bass was lightly breaded and spiced, cooked perfect and tender.
If you are in Sarchi and want to have a very reasonably priced meal, served by friendly staff and in a cheerful atmosphere try Delicias del Mar!!
Total price with beverage: 9125 colones about $19.00 CAD
Bright cheerful colours invite you into Delicias del Mar
Arroz con Camarones
Andreas, our cheerful waiter, serving Rob his Sea Bass (breaded)
Ro Nal, our chef and his assistant Jose'
Maria, hostess and cashier
Delicias del Mar, located on the corner of Calle San Rafael and Ruta 118, is a seafood restaurant. Rob chose the Breaded Sea Bass and I had Arroz con Camarones (rice with shrimp). I really think it should of been Shrimp with Rice. Both meals were "muy bueno" and even though I had ordered the small portion, it was more than I could eat. Rob's Sea Bass was lightly breaded and spiced, cooked perfect and tender.
If you are in Sarchi and want to have a very reasonably priced meal, served by friendly staff and in a cheerful atmosphere try Delicias del Mar!!
Total price with beverage: 9125 colones about $19.00 CAD
Bright cheerful colours invite you into Delicias del Mar
Arroz con Camarones
Andreas, our cheerful waiter, serving Rob his Sea Bass (breaded)
Ro Nal, our chef and his assistant Jose'
Maria, hostess and cashier
Edited on Friday February 20th, 2009 at 9:29 pm
Journal Entry #19 - Posted on Wednesday February 18th, 2009 at 7:02 pm by Anne Watcher
Just as I can find a fabric or quilt shop no matter where I go, Rob too has an eye for a wedding. While spending Saturday afternoon on Manuel Antonio's beautiful beach, he spotted this couple being married as the sun set on a great day. You would almost think he was their photographer and was right by their side.
the happy couple
Family and friends watch the nuptuals.
As we were pulling out of the parking lot this happy couple came around the corner and headed to their cars. Quick on the draw Rob raised his camera and they smiled and waved. Obviously this was a popular place and time to get married. I have to agree, Manual Antonio is a gorgeous spot for a wedding or vacation!!
the happy couple
Family and friends watch the nuptuals.
As we were pulling out of the parking lot this happy couple came around the corner and headed to their cars. Quick on the draw Rob raised his camera and they smiled and waved. Obviously this was a popular place and time to get married. I have to agree, Manual Antonio is a gorgeous spot for a wedding or vacation!!
Edited on Wednesday February 18th, 2009 at 7:24 pm
Journal Entry #18 - Posted on Wednesday February 18th, 2009 at 1:27 pm by Anne Watcher
You travel to Costa Rica to enjoy sun, surf, monkeys and of course COFFEE. I love coffee, I work with coffee back home, so naturally when in Costa Rica I want to drink a good cup of joe. Unfortunately that is easier said then done. Costa Rica produces some of the best coffee in the world but due to the fact that it has been/still is a developing country, the best beans are exported leaving the less desirable ones to be consumed locally. However I have found 2 or 3 small cafes where I can enjoy a really good cafe con leche.
One such place is Cafe Milagro in the small fishing town of Quepos. Started by then student Adrienne in December of 1994 and out of a desire for that great cup of coffee, Cafe Milagro roasts it's own beans to get their unique flavour. Armed with help and support from family and friends, readily available credit offered to students, a former dancing partner turned coffee-roaster partner, Adrienne purchased a roaster, had a crash course on how to run it and bought some books on the art of roasting.
She was a woman in a man's world and many tried to "get one over on her" but she was not detered. Her personality and determination won the locals over and soon a cafe with baked items was added. Keeping the human touch and scenses in their roasting still today, Cafe Milagro produces a rich and dark roast and a smooth and lively light roast. Both are made from mountain grown arabica beans from the Tarrazu and Tres Rios regions of Costa Rica.
Now with their newest venture, an online store, you can purchase their unique flavour to enjoy at home anywhere in the world. For more information or to purchase coffee please visit: www.cafemilagro.com
Bags of beans and the roaster at Cafe Milagro
We were helped by very friendly Jason and Sadie.
Cafe Milagro is situated right along the waterfront in Quepos, CR
One such place is Cafe Milagro in the small fishing town of Quepos. Started by then student Adrienne in December of 1994 and out of a desire for that great cup of coffee, Cafe Milagro roasts it's own beans to get their unique flavour. Armed with help and support from family and friends, readily available credit offered to students, a former dancing partner turned coffee-roaster partner, Adrienne purchased a roaster, had a crash course on how to run it and bought some books on the art of roasting.
She was a woman in a man's world and many tried to "get one over on her" but she was not detered. Her personality and determination won the locals over and soon a cafe with baked items was added. Keeping the human touch and scenses in their roasting still today, Cafe Milagro produces a rich and dark roast and a smooth and lively light roast. Both are made from mountain grown arabica beans from the Tarrazu and Tres Rios regions of Costa Rica.
Now with their newest venture, an online store, you can purchase their unique flavour to enjoy at home anywhere in the world. For more information or to purchase coffee please visit: www.cafemilagro.com
Bags of beans and the roaster at Cafe Milagro
We were helped by very friendly Jason and Sadie.
Cafe Milagro is situated right along the waterfront in Quepos, CR
Edited on Wednesday February 18th, 2009 at 2:49 pm
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