Hello and welcome back to your favorite blog. This weeks installment features the thrilling adventures of the most lovable student group living out their self proclaimed travel dreams. That’s right, we planned everything from volcano climbing to relaxing on the Caribbean. Using boats, cars, airplanes, and our own feet, we have truly traveled far and wide this week.
While our student directed travel started in Antigua, the first real challenge was climbing to the peak of Acatenango.
From 4,000 feet up to sea level, we made the long journey from Antigua to Rio Dulce. Hot, humid, tropical climate and a diversity of small lizards greeted us at our first hostel.
Our first venture was to the Volcanically heated hot waterfalls of Finca el Paraiso.
After a short two night in the town of Rio Dulce, we moved farther down the river to our next stay at Finca Tatin.
Next we headed to Livingston, making our way through the breathtaking canyon.
After only a few hours in Guatemala City, our flight to Costa Rica left early the next morning. An easy 1.5 hours in the air took us to San José where we departed for Turrialba, the home of our final Spanish school and beloved host families.
“Here there are cacao pods, strange fruits, a berry that makes everything taste sweet, a tree that secretes vanilla scented oil, and berries with a strong orange pigment. There are also extremely bitter leaves that are said to cure stomach issues, and narcotic leaves containing DMT used for spiritual experiences. As I describe this garden in Turriable it really sounds like an otherworldly scene. The tour was led by a re representative of CATIE, The Tropical and Agricultural Research and Higher Education Center.” -Hunter Elwell.