Costa Rica (Lonely Planet, 9th Edition) - Matthew Firestone [456]
Why should people visit the Sarapiquí region? Meghan: There are many beautiful places in Costa Rica, but to me, the Sarapiquí Valley is the most special area of all. In Sarapiquí, the tourists traditionally come to enjoy the biodiversity, birds, adventure, or to study and share with the community. The harmony and good vibes between the locals and foreigners here in Sarapiquí is very distinct and special, the climate here is beautiful, the people are warm and friendly, the air is fresh and clean, the water crystalline and wildlife abounds. Sarapiquí is a haven for anyone looking for an authentic tourism experience.
Davis: The people, security, location, national parks, rivers and mountains are some of the many reasons to visit Sarapiquí instead of, say, the Pacific resorts. Locals practice sustainable development and simple living with nature. Visiting the area will help the people of Sarapiquí to continue their conservation efforts. Sarapiquí is the best rainforest experience in Costa Rica.
Is Costa Rica a good travel destination for children? Davis: One of the most important values of Costa Rica is the family, the essential basis for living in harmony. People are very friendly and love children. It’s completely normal to see men and women lovingly doting on children. Most places offer special attention, service and discounts for children. The food and weather are ideal for families of all ages to have a wonderful time anywhere in Costa Rica.
What’s it like raising two young children in the rainforest? Meghan: It’s been a blessing. It is much easier to get away from the pressures of consumerism and the material here in the rainforest. The colours, tastes, smells and sounds of our natural surroundings provide an endless natural wonderland…and reinforce our children’s innate love for nature and help them learn creative solutions for a sustainable future. Throuought this experience, they have taught us that we really do need less ‘stuff,’ and the time we spend together and immersed in nature is priceless.
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Sleeping
This stretch of jungle boasts quite a range of accommodations, from budget bunks in town, designed for local long-term plantation workers, to several extraordinary lodges on the outskirts, the most exclusive of which are on the road to La Virgen. Lodges in the area north of Puerto Viejo are also listed, including one in the river town of Trinidad, on the Nicaraguan border.
BUDGET
Trinidad Lodge (2213-0661, 8381-0621; r per person US$10) Situated on the Río San Juan in the community of Trinidad, this budget lodge is right across from the Nicaraguan border crossing and is pretty much the only gig in town. Though on the rustic side, the bamboo-walled bungalows are charming and very clean, with cold-water bathroom. Candle power provides light when the generator shuts off at the end of the night, and meals (₡2300 to ₡4600) are available at the rancho, with a pool table besides. The lodge is accessible only by boat (₡5800), which departs once daily at 2pm from the main dock of Puerto Viejo de Sarapiquí (35km away). The motorized launches leave Trinidad daily at (yawn) 5am. Due to the launch schedules, consider staying two nights to fully appreciate a hike, horseback-riding tour or boat trip through this lush, remote sector of jungle.
Mi Lindo Sarapiquí (2766-6281; s/d US$18/30; ) On the south side of the soccer field, this is the best budget option in the town center. Rooms here are simple but spacious and clean, and have a private hot shower and fan. The onsite restaurant (mains ₡1700 to ₡5800; open 10am to 10pm) is slightly pricey, though it offers some of the freshest seafood in town.
Posada Andrea Cristina B&B (2766-6265; www.andreacristina.com; s/d incl breakfast US$28/48, tree-house d US$55, extra guests per person US$15; ) About 1km west of the center, this recommended