Puerto Limon, Costa Rica

Spotted Frog in Costa Rica

Christopher Columbus proved that richness does not necessarily translate to consumer goods and monetary gains. He named the land “rich coast” upon an assumption that the fine gold and jade that the native people were wearing as proof of natural wealth, when in fact those materials came from outside the country’s borders. Oftentimes interpretation is completely dependent on personal perception and the willingness to explore beyond the given trail.

Zip Lining Costa Rica

For me, Costa Rica’s wealth is found in its beautiful abundance of vibrant colors. Although I traditionally do not categorize myself as an average tourist because of my passion for immersion, sometimes the cliche activities are necessary and turn out to be some of the most amazing adventures. In this case, I gained a new perspective of the canopy by zip lining through the treetops. While gearing up we could hear the famed howler monkey proclaiming his territory and even found two frogs that were radiating with color. One was as red as a burning flame and the other black and green speckled like the shadowed tropical grounds of its home.

I was excitedly anticipating zip lining as I heard that there is no better place than Costa Rica to do so. I know completely understand the truth in the statements. This particular course offered us twelve tree house type platforms to leap from, and we dove down 11 double cables. It took about an hour to complete the course. I was surprised by how safe I felt while falling down the lines and I actually had mid-air moments where I could take in the full view of the jungle around me. Although I didn’t spot any monkeys I felt in communion with my long tailed friends as I flew alongside their branches. I could not have asked for better views of the canopy from both above and within.

Local Catholic Church

Facts are given in mass quantities on tours. I learned that the country is mostly made up of my fellow Roman Catholics, but it was not until I stumbled upon a beautiful church did the meaning really settle in. The exterior was not impressive, geometric hard stone edges lacking any complementary accent. I slowly found my way in the dark sanctuary where stained glass windows let in rays of light through its mosaics from floor to ceiling. It was a hidden gem that I’d bet good money none of my fellow shipmates laid eyes on. It was in this quiet moment that I took the time to thank God for bringing me on the trip just before venturing out to file away a few more snapshots.

I weaved in and out of the streets and central marketplace admiring the graffiti-art type murals that covered the walls, and the bold bright paints that gave each new facade a different character. I feel in love with this withered turquoise house that I assumed reflected years of history beaten by tropical storms. I just stopped and sat there with a bright gold flower in the forefront of my view that radiated rustic elegance in a humble world. I people watched in the market, vendors selling local produce and families sitting along the sidewalks chatting. As I walked closer to the port, the main street had a featured art collection that was eerie and delicate at the same time. Looking up to the sky hung black and white dresses that seemed to be worn by ghosts who idly sat on high swings.

Costa Rica Street Art

I had a few more hours in Puerto Limon to experience the local grounds. I simply strolled around the small town taking in its atmosphere and culture. There was a great park with a huge pink and white gazebo in the middle, and palm trees lined every walkway. Each isle led to the ocean where relics of buildings stood along a rocky black beach. A group of young people were drumming freely on the sidewalk making soulful background music for passerby’s. One can judge a place well by its main streets. This is where people come together in a central familiar place, where celebrations are held and commerce commences. All of these are wonderful to see, but its in the side streets where one really feels the pulse of everyday life.

Looking at the town superficially, you could argue that the country is quite poor by its run down houses and scattered abandoned buildings. But the most memorable aspect of the country that I will hold in my mind is the pulsating colors that made these seemingly withered structures truly wealthy. I could feel the spirit of Costa Rica in every fiber as I finished the day with a beer on a local street corner listening to the beat of Puerto Limon’s young musicians cruise on by.