DESTINATION: Return To Costa Rica Paradise Beckons February 11-26, 2011

Friendly, peaceful Costa Rica is the southern most country in Central America with an immense range of climates, flora and fauna of particular interest to naturalists from around the world. In 1948 Costa Rica voted to abolish its army and has avoided the despotic dictatorships, military coups and internal turmoil that have plagued other countries in the region. It boasts a high level of sanitation and education, and is one of the most literate nations on earth.

Deeply committed to ecology, Costa Rica has set aside nearly 30% of its land as national parks, private reserves and refuges. We will visit many national parks in lush jungles, cloud forests, rain forests and mangroves and see playful monkeys, crocodiles, lizards, frogs, insects, butterflies and a mind-boggling assortment of exotic birds. Snakes? Well, yeah. Stay on the trail, listen to your guide and treasure the experience. We may get a view of Volcan Arenal as we hike over an old lava flow surprisingly covered in orchids. On the Caribbean coast, we will visit a sloth rescue center (sloths will, by the way, steal your heart), visit a local school and the Conservation Center for endangered sea turtles. Tortuguero, on the spectacular Caribbean coast, is probably the closest you will ever get to living with the people of any country.

Costa Rica is an excellent destination. Once you have savored the misty mountains, tropical rainforest and warm, friendly 'ticos,' you will know why we keep returning to Costa Rica. Mike Sappingfield and I have built up a lot of personal relationships in Costa Rica that make this a really special trip. Besides, we have killer happy hours. Check out the Calendar section for information on how you can join us on this incredible journey. La Pura Vida.