July 15th, 2013- Day 1

Hours well spent 

Finca La Anita

 As many of the parents know all too well, we met at MSP at 3:50 this morning to begin our adventure. Connecting through Atlanta, we took two 757 jet liners, eventually arriving in Liberia, Costa Rica. The view over the Gulf of Mexico was spectacular, and I missed out on a much-coveted window seat. Luckily, after multiple customs and security stations, we managed not to lose a single passport (knocking on wood). With an exhausted crew of 14 students, we boarded a bus from the airport. Lunch was a group meal at a small steakhouse known as El Toro Negro. Though some had their doubts about local food, it was delicious and all apprehension was overcome by hunger.
          The bus ride and lunch break gave us time to appreciate the culture, noticing that everyone we met was kind and welcoming. Our Spanish is rusty to say the least, but we struggled through some thank you's. Then we moved on to our end destination, a small, beautiful cabin resort called Finca La Anita. We were assigned cabins in small groups, which are quite cozy.
         After we settled in, we gathered for an orientation and received knee-high rubber boots, primarily for preventing snake bites. Precautions must be taken for safety, but with our sound judgment and experienced guides, there is little threat. With our equipment and orientation, we went for a hike in the rainforest, with a   slight reminiscence of the jungle from Jurassic Park. There were ants to see, rivers to cross, and much more.
      Returning from our hike, we enjoyed a fantastic supper of fresh, locally caught fish, home grown lettuce and spinach salad, and banana sorbet with cacao chips on top. We are now officially spoiled, and returning to our American food and processed cupcakes may be a challenge.
     In conclusion, the first day of our expedition was largely consumed by travel, but we have the best times ahead of us. I know we are all excited to be on this trip, and thankful we were able to come. All we have left for today is getting a good night's sleep, and I'm looking forward to that part. Stay tuned for further entries and photos.