We put over 1,000 miles on the rental car!

Last week I had my first opportunity to play tour guide. After celebrating my 27th birthday (picture shown), my friend Ben and I traveled to Volcan Arenal, Cuidad Quesada, Manuel Antonio and Mal Pais. But not before a must-needed karaoke stop at a local watering hole (picture shown) and a day trip to a local beach (which ended with a flat tire...on a Sunday)!

We started the adventure by heading to Rio Celeste. Our car was stopped at a police check where they asked my friend's name. After spelling B-E-N we were on our way. I'd hate to think what would have happened if he had a different name... A few wrong turns and an interesting gas experience we realized a 4WD was necessary to reach the rio. On to our next adventure.

Rounding the stunning Lake Arenal, we arrived in La Castillo just in time for the park to be closing. After settling into our hotel with a breath-taking view (picture shown) we stumbled across a tour guide who offered to take us on a night tour of the volcano...via ATV. A full moon and clear view of the lava from top to bottom, I couldn't had hoped for better conditions.

A quick stop in Quesada (where I volunteered) to visit my Tia and we were off to Manuel Antonio. Eight hours later we finally arrived in what the Lonely Planet refers to as "The Six Flags of Costa Rica." A somewhat disappointing display of tourism and outrageous prices - thankfully the pristine white-sand beaches and crystal clear water made up for it (picture shown). Not to mention all the different animal species we were lucky enough to spot.

Bright and early we were back on the road. A quick ferry ride (great timing on our part) and we were on the Nicoya Peninsula, headed towards Mal Pais. This booming beach town offers a more tranquil setting and killer waves, although the locals say it is only a matter of years before it is built up and as expensive as some of the other tourist spots. Here's hoping the extreme downpours keep the visitors at bay for a little while longer. A short morning of surfing (picture shown) our adventure had come full circle.

A jam-packed, adventurous vacation that went by way too fast. I couldn't have asked for a better travel partner (thanks, Ben). Hopefully this entry motivated some of you to hop on a plane and come visit this amazing country. I'll keep the light on...

K