As I mentioned in my last post, your loyal blogger is on the road, and isn’t sitting with his legs kicked up on a Costa Rican beach reading books under a tree (ok – well maybe a little of that). He also loves the outdoors and as such tries to be "active."
My friend Stan and I hiked up to the volcano crater of Rincon de la Vieja National Park (45 mins NE of Liberia, CR). It was one of the more challenging physical experiences I’ve endured. It wasn’t the time — it took seven hours round trip — but the immense steepness and poorly constructed trails that made it utterly grueling. Think stairmaster in mud.
The three following pictures illuminate how the hike went. Here I am at the outset of our hike, smiling, happy, and ready to go. The volcano is that big mountain in the background. Fyi, my collar is only popped to protect against sun burn — wouldn’t want to be confused with an east coast prep school kid!
Then after a grueling three hours up a muddy and mind-blowingly steep mountain, the picture looks much different:
When we finally reached the crater area, we walked along trail leading to the huge pit of steam and sulfur. It must be a close sibling of the moon, because if this isn’t a moonscape, I don’t know what is:
Stan and I joked that we were both "deeply humbled" by Mother Nature. Our trek was worth it. I’m a big believer in the importance of resilience and believe one’s "Resilience Quotient" (RQ) is transferable. That is, the experience of enduring hardship but ultimately finishing the job can help in other parts of life. Stan and I didn’t turn back, we finished the hike, and now have a great story and photos.
OK – back to reading on the beach.
SIR-I must take great offense at your slander against prep schoolers from the East Coast. Your collar pop is a grave insult to our native dress; as a rule, the practice of popping collars is not to be practical in any way, shape or form.
(cool photos, though!)
Resiliency – been doing some more long-rides but my first Century Ride is still my fondest memory – 100 miles with a nasty accident on Mile 55 around Lake Tahoe.
When do you get back, B?
That collar-popping was to attract as much Tica attention as possible. I hear they dig it.
Costa Rica is a true paradise. Known for its unlimited fun and adventure costa rica offers you with many activities like hiking, surfing, scooba diving and lots more. You can also spot the wildlife and the active volcano spots. An excellent account of how it really is if you visit and travel around Costa Rica. My own recent adventures have started in San Jose which is my base camp within a base camp. Like it rather a lot here so not at all sure when I will be moving on!