Javi the Frog's Travel Blog - Page 3

Some people come to Costa Rica for the sun-drenched coastlines, but if you're like me, you may be more interested in what's underground! I know what you're thinking - a tree frog that prefers down below to the tree tops? Well, you haven't seen these caves yet! One of my dearest memories of traveling through Costa Rica was when I hopped all the way up the Arenal Volcano and then down into the northern lowlands where the mystical Venado Caves sit. For a little tree frog like me, I can easily hop along the 2,700-meter stretch of limestone to visit some of my friends: crickets, monochrome frogs and spiders! However, humans have to duck through small crevices, repel down waterfalls and squeeze between rock formations trust me, it's like nothing you've ever seen before... [More]

Costa Rica is one of the few countries in the world that doesn't have an army. In fact, the abolition of the Costa Rican military was drafted into the country's constitution in 1949! However, the country does have an interesting military history. Come with me to learn more about how Costa Rica abolished its military presence!... [More]

Taking a vacation in Costa Rica with your children can be a wonderful experience for the whole family. The capital of San Jose has much to see and do, but perhaps the most exciting place for the little ones to visit is The Children's Museum, located just north of downtown San Jose. Filled with fun and educational exhibits, a trip to this enchanting museum is sure to be an unforgettable day out for parents and kids alike... [More]

Boasting coastlines on the Pacific Ocean and Caribbean Sea, Costa Rica offers you a world of exciting watersports activities. If you're looking to get away from it all during your vacation in Costa Rica, a sailing trip is the perfect way to enjoy the stunning natural beauty of this tropical paradise. With so many ports to choose from, you'll be spoiled for choice when it comes to embarking on a leisurely sailing trip on the open ocean. Come with me to discover the best places to sail in Costa Rica.. [More]

Manuel Antonio National Park is one of my favorite wildlife refuges in Costa Rica. Aside from the fact that several of my brothers and sisters live there, the views of the Pacific Coast are amazing! That's not the only reason you should visit this beautiful park, though. If you're the adventurous type, you can explore the treetops of the jungles surrounding Manuel Antonio on an exciting canopy tour. Come with me to learn more about these thrilling excursions through the rainforest!... [More]

Since 1908, the Vargas family has been growing Costa Rican coffee on the Doka Coffee Plantation in Sabanilla de Alajuela. This estate produces some of the highest quality coffee in the country along the slopes of the Alajuela Poas Volcano. Because of the fertile soil, perfect altitude and ideal climate, the Vargas family is able to produce eight different blends of coffee. This plantation uses a century-old water mill from England that powers the plantation, and the Costa Rican government designated it as a historical and architectural heritage site... [More]

The National Museum of Costa Rica is one of my favorite tourist attractions in San Jose. Even the building itself has a fascinating history, as it used to be military barracks! The museum is home to a variety of permanent and temporary collections, and one of the most interesting is the "Human Remains" exhibition... [More]

When you're planning what to do in Costa Rica, Cartago should be on your list! As the first capital of Costa Rica, Cartago is one of the oldest communities in the country, and as you can imagine, there are some great sites to see. You may not realize it, but I am actually a huge history buff. It may be from my travels throughout Costa Rica, or all the stories that I've heard in the rainforest, but I love visiting historic areas. The ruins in Cartago, which date back to the 16th century, give you a glimpse into the rich history of Costa Rica. In 1723, an eruption of the Irazu Volcano nearly destroyed the entire town, but luckily there are still some ruins that stand today. Since the volcano sits a mere 24 miles away, there have been several eruptions that have damaged some of the ruins... [More]

There are so many ways to travel the lands of Costa Rica. For me, I like hopping because I can splash in puddles and jump up to high branches! During my travels, I explore different forms of transportation and one of my favorites is horseback riding. From atop a majestic horse, you can see much more clearly - that is, unless you are very tall! It's a whole new way to experience nature, because humans can feel as though they are a part of it. You can trek through the lush forests, alongside a volcano or on the white-sand beaches... [More]

As any traveler will tell you, Costa Rica is a tropical paradise that boasts a scenic beauty and biodiversity unlike anywhere else in the world. No matter where in the country their adventure may take them, visitors will find plenty to see, do and explore throughout the Central American nation. Guests will get more out of their trip if they plan to visit an entire region rather than spend all of their time in urban centers like San Jose, and a journey across the Caribbean coast is a great place to start.... [More]

Costa Rica is a foodie's paradise. With near-perfect growing conditions for crops year-round, our beautiful country offers travelers the opportunity to indulge in a variety of delicious meals any time of the year. Depending on when you visit, there are a number of seasonal foods that are sure to make your mouth water... [More]

If you're flying into San Jose's largest airport, Juan Santamaria International, you might be wondering who the hub's mysterious namesake is - or was. Well, Juan Santamaria is Costa Rica's most beloved national hero, and his tale is one of patriotism, courage and strength. Let's find out more about Juan Santamaria... [More]

Extending from south from Guanacaste, Nicoya Peninsula is heavily forested and mountainous on the inland, but the shoreline is one of the country's finest. Each village'slong stretchof beachfrontboasts a distinctive character which is one of the most charming aspects of this region. You'll find endless aquatic attractions to suit your the needs, whether you're an adventurous spirit like me or a true novice. I love Nicoya Peninsula because of the diverse ecosystems and extremely different seasons. I've never lived in this region, but I've come here to visit during the dry season - which starts at the end of November and lasts into May - and always found it quite charming... [More]

Sea shells are so tiny - well, not compared to me sometimes - but one of my favorite things about beaches! You can imagine my excitement when I hop to Playa Conchal - its name came from the millions of crushed shells that make up the shoreline. Boasting crystal clear waters where you can see your toes wiggling in the sand and the fishes swimming nearby, Playa Conchal is one of the most famous beaches in Costa Rica! This pristine waters are a highlight along the Caribbean Coast, and because weather in Costa Rica is typically sunny in this region, you can enjoy the beach on almost any day... [More]

Costa Rica is home to an abundance of natural wonders that mingle together to create some of the most beautiful scenery around! On my journeys, I’ve hopped along streams, mountain springs, freshwater ponds and through forests to find hundreds of waterfalls that are truly majestic. I’ve heard that humans especially love these cascading attractions, while there are still many unknown or closed off to the public, there are plenty unbelievable ones to be visited. For example, while La Paz is often filled with humans, but then there were more secluded waterfalls like Rio Pacuare. No matter where you’re staying in a Costa Rica all inclusive, it’s likely you’ll find one of these stunning natural wonders... [More]