Traveling to Monteverde

Our group had another travel heavy day as we left the left Arenal on our way to Monteverde, one of Costa Rica's best known ecological treasures. We spent about 5 hours in the bus today winding our way around Lake Arenal and working our way through winding, mountain roads. As usual, our guides' experience shined as they allowed for several stretch breaks at popular snack spots. If your student was awake for this portion of the trip (most weren't), they were treated to panoramic views of the plains, one last glimpse of Arenal, and several close-ups of Costa Rica's wind-power infrastructure.

A german bakery visit made for a tasty stop outside Arenal

Once in Monteverde, our group visited a small school. The school partners with EF Tours and is accustomed to visitors, which was helpful as their precocious students kicked off conversations with our uncharacteristically shy 8th graders. After introductions and some questions, the students enjoyed less forced interactions as they danced and played soccer.

Dancing at fun during our school visit

Monteverde is far and away my favorite location we will visit on this tour. Its cloud forests are unique in the world as their combination of geology, climate, isolation, and local conservation have preserved a truly precious biological gem. The area is yet another example of local activism partnering with responsible tourism to profit a community while preserving its environment. The students are less likely than myself to be impressed by the orchids and the chance at a quetzal siting, but they will certainly come home with stories of ice cream, zip-lining, and horseback riding.

This evening we are in a rustic hotel just minutes away from the cloud forest. The students will have to do without AC tonight, but this region is cool at night and we hope to wear them out by stuffing them with s'mores then dancing in the "discoteca"!

Exploring the town of Santa Elena

Tomorrow is going to be a very busy day as we zip-line and horseback ride in the morning then hike the cloud forest in the afternoon.

Lastly, I would like to publicly shout out Ms. Cuffee for putting together such a seamless, smooth, well-organized, educational, fun, and safe adventure for our students. This trip is running like clockwork thanks to her tireless efforts. It takes a special kind of person to put on a trip like this and she is shining!

No "Lazy Days" for Ms. Cuffee!