We returned last evening from a rejuvenating weekend visiting La Fortuna and staying at the Hotel Arenal Springs! The ride from Sta Elena to Arenal was so beautiful; the landscape looked surreal, like a painting. Rolling hills with cows grazing and houses on open farm-land inspire me to live more simply and to feel more connected to the natural environment.
Upon arrival to La Fortuna we enjoyed free time walking about. I love looking at all the hand-made items made of wood, such as salad bowls and masks. Clearly a tourist destination, most were labeled in English and in US dollars. As I walked back to the van for our departure, I met two young children, likely siblings. I have been photographing Costa Rica's beautiful children during the past two weeks and knew they were perfect for my album. In my poor Spanish, I asked, Puedo tomar su foto? They gladly obliged, the girl scooting closer to her brother and embracing him. This photo has become a favorite of our trip.
Although I had heard from previous years' students that the weekend in Arenal was amazing, I think I was not fully prepared for what I'd see. We were fortunate to have clear skies and, therefore, a clear view of the volcano. Incredible. Our hotel rooms, like small bungalows, were charming, comfortable, and I'd even say luxurious with a beautiful bathroom with a skylight and plants in the shower. All immediately changed and headed to the hot springs. I spent more than 3 hours there with our students, other student groups, and a newlywed couple (a UGA graduate, coincidentally). The Arenal Volcano was in clear view in the backdrop.
As I knew, this program was been "work," not a vacation, but for this weekend, we felt like tourists and relaxed completely at this resort hotel. It was fantastic. As pertaining to my group's respective research topics, including sustainability, happiness, and proper water use and sanitation, there are examples of these ideals throughout Costa Rica. The Arenal Hotel included recycling bins sorted by glass, aluminum, and even organic matter (I assume for composting), as well as physical signs in bathrooms with messages such as, "Cada gota del agua cuenta." I even noted how Costa Ricans practice sustainability in small ways. For example, my mama tica and I shared applications on our iPhones last night and she taught me how to close applications by double clicking in order to save the battery. Water is conserved and I am asked to turn off the water heater after showering. Frequently, lights are turned off and lights, etc. unplugged when not in use; all bedroom and bathroom doors are also closed, I am thinking to keep air flow in the open rooms.
I've noticed advertisements for the Coca Cola bottled purified water brand, Alpina, since learning about this last week. I've read online (for example) that Costa Ricans drink less bottled water than the average in Latin America, but that water treatment plants struggle with keeping up with demand. I have not noticed Costa Ricans drinking out of plastic water bottles (usually only tourists) and even school children bring reusable bottles to school. I read online that Coca Cola has introduced education programs for sustainable water use. I wish to learn more this week and to interview my family and CPI personnel regarding the commercialization of this country's agua puro prior to departure.
This week is our ultima semana in Costa Rica. How much we have learned in two weeks. I am certain the remaining 6 days will be enjoyable and educational tambien.
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