Author: loriscostaricablog

I made it to Tenorio Volcano, but that’s about as far as I got. I’ll post some pics taken on my iphone of what I could capture.  They did not come out very well.  When I return to CR, I will be sure to pack my good camera, rent a 4×4 for the day and try again. I’ve been out of range to post until today.

My little Suzuki made it as far as I could, but there is no road, contrary to what is said from blog posts and tour operators. I felt like I was back in the desert at ROP chasing kids up Pilot Cone. The poor car. I hope they don’t make me buy it.  It took a beating and wasn’t fun. My knee also took it hard as I was driving a standard and was on that clutch all day.

5 1/2 hours of driving so I could see this amazing waterfall and stay in a mountain lodge, basically my first taste of the jungle. There’s a lot of things in the jungle, and most of them I do not like. The noises, the movement at night was unnerving. I never got to see the waterfall, but did get to see some of the blue river and did stay at the lodge.

I guess the road, what there was of it anyway, got all the way washed out during the hurricane that hit Upala really hard last year.  I chose this side of Costa Rica because it’s not supposed to get hurricanes.  The one prior was 174 years ago.

Huge rocks and holes., with big uphills and big downhills climbing the volcano.

I haven’t recovered from that drive yet. On my return the following day I had to do it all over again. I see why so many locals here at the beach haven’t ever been there and even tour guides do not advertise this trip. Here’s where I stayed at the Catarata Mountain Lodge. The flora and the birds were incredible. Also saw a lot of the most beautiful butterflies including the huge blue monarch. Amazing.

Great little cabina, until the night fell upon this darling little gem. Totally unplugged, that was ok, but the bugs were too much for me. They were big, loud, and they flew.  I hate things that fly in the night. Finally got a comfy bed and lots of pillows, but I didn’t get any rest. I wrapped myself in that mosquito net and armed with OFF tried to kill them off. Ewww, they were awful, some kind of cockroach and beetle combo. Never again. I’d splurge on a hotel next time. Got cold once the sunset and finally had use for long pants and a sweater. Relief from the heat, but all I could think about was get me the heck outta here and back to the beach where there are good roads and no bugs.

I saw my first toucan in the wild, but my iphone just didn’t do it justice, so I just mention  it here. I remember driving through the Tapir Valley on my way to the volcano.

I recommend this trip only if you have a 4×4 and stay in a hotel, there’s one, and it’s nice. Then you will have the stamina to park the car and hike to the falls.  And don’t forget to take a good camera. I’ll give Tenorio this, it’s beautiful. Never seen such pretty flowers, birds, and butterflies.

Had to work today after my horrific night last night, when I’d never been so scared in my life. I spent hours in the bathroom shower, thinking a gunman had gone crazy next door, which is right out my window.  About 40 shots in 12 minutes. It’s also crazy that this would happen here. I’m in a very safe neighborhood, and my condo neighbors are the best.

No one but me seemed to care.  I heard no sirens, no talking, nothing but these gunshots. Well, it was not a gun, but a cannon let off in front of my house to mark the start of the Iron Man competition.  Had I been able to read a Tico newspaper, I would’ve known. I’m getting better at this type of dialect, but I can’t read.

I thought of a great way for me to practice and understand.  Watch Nickelodeon. They speak slowly, but enduring this is painful.  I can understand when they talk slowly, but they don’t in reality, only on TV.

Here’s some pics I took at work today. It was so hot, but a highlight was when I met some great folks from Reno. That’s a first. I was wearing my Sierra Gym shirt from my favorite gym in south shore.  They were tired of the weather, too and came to CR, visited the rescue center. It was great.

I’ve never seen the Capuchins take a rest like this when there’s food to be had from the visitors. It was hot.

This is where I’m going Tuesday and Wednesday on my days off this week.  I can’t wait to see it for real. This is Tenorio Volcano National Park. I’m staying at a mountain lodge. It’s going to be cooler for sure. Can’t wait for a break in this heat. I’ll take real snaps when I see it for myself.

I got home from work today and found her in the usual spot. It’s like she’s waiting for me. I gave her some pineapple today, but she preferred the apple I gave her later.  I got peed on again at work in the Capuchin cage at meal time. I was hot, sticky, and took a dip in my pool as soon as I got home.  Next thing I know this iguana, it’s big, is under my chaise lounge and took a hello little bite at my finger. Scared me, scared her, but she didn’t run off. I think she was saying hello, not trying to bite me.  I feed the iguanas at work, so I felt good feeding this one, too. It’s like we have this connection, well maybe not, but she isn’t afraid of me approaching her. Anyway, it was funny and peculiar at the same time.

My day off and I can’t get that little fawn we got last Thursday off my mind.  By happenstance, I was driving to Ocotal beach yesterday and saw a sign for “The Monkey Farm”. Hmmm.

I checked out their website http://www.themonkeyfarm.org and read what they really are about.  I set out this morning to go check this place out for myself.  It’s claim and purpose is to be the world’s first totally sustainable farm.  It was an incredible place. No monkeys, but an incredible mission and a very dedicated staff of volunteers.  Wow,they had a lot. The Congo Trail, where I work, has two.  I met with the founder, Vicki Conley, and learned a lot about how the government works when it comes to the environment. I really wanted to talk to her about the fawn. I wanted her to take him as we are not equipped to keep the little guy.

In Costa Rica, the director of environmental affairs is the highest post next to the president.  I found that fascinating, yet it made sense since CR is all about sustainability and wildlife. Vicki is amazing in her knowledge of rescuing animals and saving the howler monkeys. One of the leading tragedies is electrocution from the power lines. Although, they receive injured and abandoned howler monkeys, her mission is to get them healthy and release back into the wild. She finds it odd that we haven’t released our howler, Lenny,back into the wild. The claim is he won’t make it on his own, but she had a different take.

The Monkey Farm is a farm. It’s free to visit, they are non-profit. Long story shorter, she met a guy in Colorado who can get the Costa Rican government things to prevent electrocutions at 1/3 the cost of what they are currently paying and using.  The government was onboard, but didn’t know how to install these protectors correctly. It’s in the works…I truly believe the government will get it and a lot of howlers will be saved.

Another tough road to get here and I imagine in the wet season, it would require a 4×4. I drove my little Suzuki. There are a bunch of blue bottles hanging from the dry branches which marks the spot. You know you’ve made it.  Hey, this is the very first place I’ve been and NOT gotten lost in the process. Great signage all the way.  I forgot to ask if there was a purpose of the bottles or just a cool quirky idea.

There are a lot of farm animals here because they serve a purpose to the sustainability of the farm.  They use the goat’s milk to feed the monkeys and this little fawn will hopefully get to come here. He needs goat’s milk as he is bottled fed and I’m not sure what he gets from us.

She agreed to take him, although it may become a government hassle. This farm grows all their own food, vegetables.  Check out their website and you can see what they do. It’s amazing.  I was there for one purpose, finding a place suitable for the little fawn. I did not tour the place, but I’m sure it’s not the last time I will meet Vicki and visit the farm.  It’s very close to my house. She knows all about my refuge, and the biologist in charge. It was great to hear what she had to say about how we’re doing, not bad in light of the circumstances. Ismael has made great improvements and has the best intentions, but my refuge is privately owned, so final say goes to the owner.

The mission of the farm is to become the world’s first fully sustainable rescue center and serve as a model for which other countries can follow. This woman has a plan and is on a mission. I found her fascinating and her knowledge invaluable.

She agreed to take the little fawn and let the government know. even though she is not certified yet.  All the requirements have been met, she keeps detailed records, and has done everything right. It’s just a slow process. So, in a way I hope getting this fawn will help her finally get the certification.

Meanwhile, back at home my “buddy” was waiting for me to feed him some grapes.

He’s so hard to see as hard as I try to get his pic, he is the same color as the rock wall around my pool. I think it’s a female because I do not see a beard. I tried to give some carrots and tomatoes, but she didn’t eat them. I gave in and gave her my last banana. She’s been coming around for a few days and is the most patient creature.

So, that is how I spent my day off.  On Tuesday, I’m headed for the Rio Celeste for two days. It will be incredible and a bit cooler as it sits in a valley between two volcanoes.

I will send pics. Located in Tenorio National Park, it is a spectacular site to witness.  It’s about an hour and 1/2 from home.  We shall see how long it actually takes me. I’m bound to get lost.  I’m staying the night here to take in the rain forest, the canopy, the hanging bridges, and this incredible waterfall with water so blue, it’s electrifying. I hope I get some good snaps. It’s only $30 bucks a night to stay at the lodge. 1st bargain I’ve come across. You could take a tour and pay upwards of $100, but I have a car and a map.

Later…

Here’s where I live. I think my apartment is 32 square meters, about 300 sq. ft.  Smaller than my sister’s motor home!  But it suits me just fine. I like living small these days.

I live one block off the beach in the quieter part of town. Lots of Canadians and a few Americans. The Pacific isn’t as warm as my last visit here. I think, well I don’t know what I think as to why. So I’ve not been surfing yet, too cold.

When I get to Punta Arenas and Jaco Beach, maybe it’ll be warmer water. Until later.

Saw some sad news today on Facebook. Jack Burns passed away. RIP Jack. Francis I wish you the best during this tough time.

I’ve been off for a few days and what a surprise to come n and find new turkey chicks, six in total, and a new fawn. So little.  I guess they got the report of this little guy last Sunday, but just caught him last night. No one knows what to do with him so he’s sharing the cage with the howler monkey, Lenny, whom I showed in an earlier post.

Really, I’ve never done such physical labor in my life.  I’m too old, but I can’t help it, keep going back.  To some of you, it’s probably sounds weird. It’s back breaking work in the heat, but the animals have to be taken care of. Now, with an additional seven animals, it’s daunting work.  It takes over 4 hours to prepare the food, in a tiny kitchen with cement floors standing over the sink cutting veges and fruit.  Then the chore of feeding them.  Yeah, the little white-faced monkeys are easy as they are young and crave human interaction, but the spider monkeys are beasts, and kind of mean. They will be happy then turn on you in a flash.  I go in with a stick and someone else teases them with bananas on the other side of the cage to distract them. 

Haven’t made the drive down the coast to Punta Arenas yet. My next door neighbor will be here on the 16th, so I’m going with him as that’s where his home and tree farm is located.

Tuesday night at Coconutz Bar is Karaoke night. Wish I could still drink I would have grabbed that mike. I know I would sound as good as my sister. Neither of us can carry a tune, but who cares when you’re a bit buzzed.

Coconutz is THE place. Anyone who has been in Cabo, in the old days, knows the Giggling Marlin.  It’s just like that, back in the day.  

Dave is belting out Margaritaville by Buffet.  Of course, I sang, but only the table next to me could hear me. Gawd, I hope they were drunk.  Fun night.  Hate to see you leave tomorrow Dave and Gloria…Great hang out spot with locals and visitors alike. The owner is from the US and has brought down 3 Harleys.  I’m trying to see if it’s plausible for me to bring mine, too. It’s all outdoors, great drinks, ( I hear) and good food.  I still have stitiches all over my mouth so I had some soup, and it was delish.

Costa Rica is expensive.  If you are looking for a budget holiday in Central America, go next door to Nicaragua or the Caribbean side of Mexico. I’ll tell you, the Caribbean is hot, humid, and the bugs are huge.  Here on the northwest side of the country, the Pacific side, you do not have any of that. Plus it is safe and clean for the solo traveller.  Nicaragua is very close to here. When visas expire, folks hop a bus to the border, cross and return all in 5 hours.  Funny, how this works.Most of the people I’ve met do this instead of going for legal residency which could take 6 years.

There are exceptions, of course. BE old like me, buy property, buy a car, and open a bank account with the national bank. Show you have steady income for the remainder of your life and can support yourself.  Why doesn’t America work this way????

I’ve spoken to many Tico’s and they all say the same thing. It is very difficult to obtain a visa for the US unless they marry. CR and it’s people are so peaceful, the US would rather import middle easterners.  I swear I will never get this. Enough political speak…

Renting a car is probably going to be your biggest expense and biggest hassle. I recommend Dollar rent a car if someone is coming to visit. They’re fair, easy to work with, and have new vehicles.  I returned my car today. It was $740 US for two weeks.  You can rent a 2 bedroom condo for $400 a month, near the beach.  I had to rent another car today and asked for a deal.  They will work with you if they know you live here and have used them before. As the high season begins to wind down, it will become much cheaper for everything but groceries and food.  I don’t drink, so I cannot say what alcohol prices are.

I’ve learned to control my frustrations here. The tico’s will not tolerate rudeness or disrespect or demands. The term ugly American comes to my mind when I think of how we are perceived in other countries. Don’t be flashy, blend in.  I hope my temperment holds when I get home, I mean my mouth.  Doubtful, but always a chance. It is amazing what a smile gets you. Helpful, nice, peaceful people.  In the town I live currently, is run over by Canadians. While I’m home, I will try to figure out where I want to be.

Headed south tomorrow on my days off to explore the Punta Arenas area. It’s more jungle, but on the Pacific and I’ve heard great things about it.  But, I do remember the NatGeo special on the fellow from Alaska who was killed walking from the Caribbean to the Pacific through the jungle near that area. I’m going to Jaco Beach, another surf town and check it out. Because the rain forest is near, it’s not too difficult to find cooler temps.

Post more tomorrow from Jaco Beach, just a two hour drive. Yeah,sure.  It will take me all day perhaps.  Maps are not much help at all!!

Couldn’t stand it anymore. No swimming,no sun, nada.  Dr. Ricky Lopes says to just sit under the air conditioner for 10 days. Are you kidding me?  I can’t sit still for an hour…

So I went to work Sunday. I missed the animals and couldn’t sit around any longer. It was tough, I was in pain, it was flipping so hot, and the work dirty, hard, sad, and I went anyway.  Glad I did. Lots of visitors and only one staff member.

Anyway, I am on a regular schedule now, so I guess I’m committed. I had better get my staff shirt now, I’ve earned it, and tourists will know I work here.  We’ll see.

OUCH! I knew it would hurt, but I also thought I would get some good painkillers like I would had Dr. Cassidy done the procedure.  The problem is CR doesn’t have or sell Vicodin, or similar.  You go from Ibuprofen to Morphine, which I will not take. Before you consider dental or any other surgery, consult with your at home physician and see if they will prescribe you the painkillers you’d need when they slice open your gums and insert screws into the bone.  It hurts.  I have lots of stitches so I’m restricted to a baby food diet, but nothing hot.

Do I think it was worth it?  Yep, if you’re on a budget like I am. It’s less than 1/4 the cost in the US.  The procedure takes months to complete, so I’m headed home 4/27 for a couple months for my gums to recover so I can be ready for the actual teeth. Got screwed, but no teeth yet.

It’s finally my dental appointment day. I’m getting 3 implants, two extractions, and one bone graft all in one day.  So, I might be taking a few days off from writing.

I’m nervous, but love my dentist.  All this would cost about $15,000. at home. My total is $3000 here. The medications are weak, but very expensive. Another $150 for them.

I hope I can tough it out. They do not use vicodin here. That is what works when I’m tortured by any dentist at home. So, we will see how I faire after this is all done.

It will take 7 months to complete, so I will be heading home May 1 to heal then return in July for final work. It will be cooler in July as the wet season will be in full swing. I understand it’s the best time of year up here in the northwest region where it is desert like.  There is no hurricane season here in Costa Rica on this side, anyway.