Kirby Collins asked:


I’ve lived on the east coast of Florida for many years but it wasn’t until recently that I spent a few days in the Panhandle. I was so surprised at how different it was from all the other places I had been in Florida, and I have been all over Florida. For one thing the water is a beautiful shade of emerald green and the beaches are white sand where as the water along the east coast are a beautiful clear blue and the beaches are a lovely oatmeal color, quite a contrast. One of the other things I noticed was how the area, especially around Destin, was so beautiful and peaceful. There were tree lined streets, small pastel painted houses, outdoor malls that were cleverly disguised as quaint wood framed buildings which held all the designer brands and labels and at least a dozen well manicured golf courses. I’m sure you’ve all heard of Florida Panhandle Beaches like Pensacola and Panama City Beach, but let me tell you about these great spots in between.

Dotted along the road between Destin and Panama City Beach are the picturesque, beachfront towns of Seaside, Watercolor, Sandestin and Miramar. These towns are small and homey, with tree lined streets and pastel painted houses; they look like something out of a movie. Hollywood thought so too, and so they decided to film the movie “The Truman Show”, starring Jim Carey, in the town of Seaside. If you’ve ever been to Hilton Head, South Carolina, Sandestin is a lot like it; very understated and classy. Sandestin is known for its fabulous Golf courses and the Village of Baytowne Warf, which consists of 50 boutiques and specialty merchants which overlook Choctawhatchee Bay. Watercolor is small, approximately 500 acres, but packed with many resort and residential areas all just waiting to be rented for your perfect Florida vacation. Grayton Beach State Park has a fishing pier and hiking trails. Miramar is the place shop. Home of the Silver Sands Factory Stores, it is called the largest designer outlet center in the U.S.; they have over 100 designer outlet shops.

Navarre Beach has soft white sand, emerald green water and is one more place to stretch out and just relax. It’s a great place to kayak along the shore or sail out and see what fish are biting today. Navarre Beach is the fastest growing community in Santa Rosa County, partly due to a new and scenic road that connects it to Pensacola Beach. While you can hit the greens for a round of golf at one of the many area courses, Navarre Beach is all about nature. Eight of the 12 miles of beach here are part of the Gulf Islands Natural Seashore and are federally protected. You can hike, picnic, bike along one of the trails, snorkel, fish and go boating. Try horseback riding or bird watching with the family; Navarre Beach is a great place to be still and get back to nature. They have many hotels, resorts and vacation rentals should you choose to vacation on the beach.

Destin is also known to be a big resort town and one of the most spectacular examples is the new Emerald Grande at Harbor Walk Village; this 5-star resort is located oceanfront and is available for weekly rentals. Even with an estimated 4.5 million people visiting the area, there are people who live in Destin year round, and according to a 2004 census, that number was reported to be just over 12,000 people

The East Pass, which is also called Destin Pass, is at the western tip of the peninsula and is the only outlet of Choctawhatchee Bay into the Gulf of Mexico. The claim has been made that this pass was dug by hand but it appears on early maps of the French, Spanish and English surveyors, so this is likely not true. The East Pass must be dredged on a regular basis in order for it to remain navigable, the first known map of the East Pass was drawn by Don Francisco Tapia, who was commissioned to survey the coast of Florida and draw the map.

The community of Destin has existed for over one hundred and fifty years and started as a humble fishing village. The city of Destin can trace it’s roots back to the 7th century A.D. when it is believed that the American Indians lived in the area. Destin is named for Captain Leonard Destin, who settled in Northwest Florida around 1845; he moved here from Connecticut and was a pioneer in the fishing industry. Today Destin is touted as the “World’s Luckiest Fishing Village” and claims the largest, best equipped fishing fleet in Florida docks are in Destin Harbor. When you visit, you can play golf, tennis and of course do anything you can think of on the water, including snorkeling and diving. If you’d like to charter a boat to do some fishing in the Gulf, you’ll appreciate the fact that the 100 Fathom Curve is closer to Destin than any other spot in Florida, making it the fastest way to get to the deep waters in the Gulf.

No matter where you are in the Panhandle when the day is done, do yourself a favor pick a beach and make it a point to stop and just sit and watch the sunset, it’s a memory you’ll take with you and cherish for the rest of your life.



ALTSCHULER

Tomer Harel asked:


Explore the California wine route, from San Francisco to Napa and Sonoma Valley.

Indeed, a California trip wouldn’t be complete without having a sip of its world famous wines. And what could be more fitting than a personalized visit to the Northern part of Sunny California, where the divine wine will prove to be just the icing on the cake.

Excited? There is every reason to be. But before you trek any further, it’s time for some trip planning for there are many things to explore along the way.

Located 35 miles north of San Francisco is the charming Napa and Sonoma Valley, home to the world-famous California wines. Punctuated with the romantic meeting of the Russian River and Pacific Coastline, the famous wine tour is a complete experience of revisiting olden times. Aside from the rolling hills bereft with vineyards, a long line of redwoods, historic towns and lush gardens abound.

Plan your trip with friends. Make sure to bring along your digital camera. Picture perfect scenery is part of the journey.

Heading up north, Calistoga and St. Helena will readily greet you with vineyards and lovely farmlands. Calistoga, also known as the “hot springs” of the West offers more than mud baths. You will also enjoy Sharpsteen Museum, Faithful Geyser and hot air balloon rides. St. Helena on the other hand is nestled in the heart of Napa Valley. The things do here are easy to remember: eat, drink and be merry! Famous for its sumptuous menu, St. Helena was part of General Vallejo’s land grant which was settled in 1834. And to this day the tradition of having good and cheerful lives is well kept.

Relaxing treats beckon the moment you set foot in Santa Rosa, Sonoma’s largest city entrenched right smack in the Sonoma Wine County. Your social trip planner will suggest indulging in Santa Rosa’s art and culture or may even challenge you to a cycling tour. Whether you choose one or both, you will definitely enjoy the city’s old brand of hospitality combined with urban art, recreation and wine.

Passing through Sonoma and into the Bodega Bay, you’ll reach the old settlement of Miwok and Pomo Indians. Up until the fall of 1775, this hilly terrain was home to hunting and gathering lifestyle as well as harvesting the seas and rivers. When Captain Smith reached the place a little over a hundred years after the Indians, he built California’s first steam powered saw mill. Rich with wood resources, Bodega Bay’s population is now under 100 after attracting settlers at the turn of century to its peak. It is now better known as the setting for Alfred Hitchcock’s The Bird.

Moving on to the rest of the journey, Healdsburg welcomes one in a big way. It is located in the center of three valleys and houses 60 wineries. Pomo Indians had their villages built here along the Russian River. Other settlers reached this place when the Gold Rush was at its peak and formed farming communities. Healdsburg is now known as the heart of wine country. A trip along the West Dry Creek Road will unravel more wineries. Check out Lambert Bridge, Quivira, and Preston and have a much-deserved sip. Cheers!



VIELE

Warren Wong asked:


The Caribbean island of Costa Rica is a popular tourist destination. Along with the many resorts, hotels and beaches, tourists have opportunities to enjoy beautiful scenery and exquisite shopping. However there are many natural and manmade Costa Rica tourist attractions that you should have on your itinerary when you visit this island.

1. Arenal Volcano National park and Observatory. This is an active volcano located in the San Jose area of Costa Rica. The tours usually start in the afternoon and involve about an hour’s walk through lava rocks before reaching the place where you can view the volcanic eruption. The sight of the eruption and the lava flow from the observatory is spectacular and is a sight that will remain in your memory for years to come. The best time to see the eruption is after dark when the glowing lava lights up the sky. If you visit on a cloudy day, you may not see anything.

2. Our Lady of Los Angeles Church. This is the most famous church in the Cartago Region, if not in all of Costa Rica. The focal point of the church is the statue of the Virgin Mary, called La Negrita. As legend has it, this statue was discovered at the site of the present church in 1635 and reappeared miraculously after it was removed. This is a destination for thousands of pilgrims each year, especially on August 2.

3. The Rainmaker. This is a series of suspension bridges on the Pacific Coast of the island. It was the first aerial walkway in Central America and reaches 25 stories tall at its highest point. The area around the bridges is spectacular with rainforest trails that wind along streams and to glorious waterfalls.

4. Rainforest Aerial Tram. This is a train that moves along the canopy of the rainforest. There are 22 cars in the train, each of which can carry five passengers. A naturalist guide points out sights of interest and explains the workings of the rainforest as well as the names of the birds and animals that you may be able to see.

5. Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Reserve. This type of forest is usually cloudy and humid because of its high altitude. There are eight different ecological zones within this reserve with over 400 species of birds, 110 species of amphibians and lizards, 100 species of mammals and over 2500 species of plants. Some of the hiking trails could be a bit muddy so visitors are advised to wear appropriate clothing and footwear.

6. Santa Rosa National Park. This is one of the oldest parks in Costa Rica. It covers almost 100,000 acres of land on the Santa Elena Peninsula. The numerous hiking trails offer breathtaking scenic views and the possibility of seeing many type of native wildlife. It is the largest dry tropical rainforest in Central America and is one of the best camping places in Costa Rica. It is the home of a sea turtle sanctuary as well as fabulous beaches for swimming and surfing.



DEROBERTIS

Naveen Marasinghe asked:


The region got its name as “Inland Empire” in the 1950s, in order to distinguish this from the coastal areas of the Greater Los Angeles Area and Los Angeles as well.

The name includes “inland” due to the fact that this region is 37 miles(60km) inland from the Pacific Ocean, from Huntington Beach, and falls east of downtown Los Angeles. The San Jose hills form the dividing line between Los Angeles and the Inland Empire from west to east. The hills also separate the San Gabriel Valley from the Pomona Valley and lead to the cluster of urban homes in San Bernardino Valley.

Inclusion of cities in the Southeastern Los Angeles County like Pomona, Diamond Bar, La Verne, and Claremont, lying east of the hills, can be attributed to the fact that they all fall in the Pomona Valley and are close to the Riverside, San Bernardino county line.

Looking at the south-north segment, it is the Santa Ana Mountains that divide Orange from San Bernardino and Riverside Counties. The Riverside area and San Diego county are segregated by the Santa Rosa Mountains and the Southern California part of the Sonoran Desert. However, physical boundaries are non-existent between the Inland Empire and the Greater Los Angeles Area, due to the interconnectivity provided by the comprehensive freeway systems in the United States.

The area falling north of San Diego county and east of LA and Orange county, was essentially a rural ”intermediate” area, which has seen rapid industrialization, urbanization and commercial development since the 1970s. Today, the Inland Empire is the 14th largest metropolitan area in the United States of America.

Los Angeles just a few miles away and you can easily reach Pasadena within minutes too. So, if you are visiting the Inland Empire, take the time to stay at the Langham Hotel Pasadena for a comfortable and convenient experience exclusive to just a few Pasadena hotels.



TINKHAM

John Singleson asked:


Vacationing in Florida is on the longing roll for many families. Whether you’re looking to expend time in Disney enjoying the many theme parks, or you want to waste a relaxing leave on the beaches of the Florida Keys- Florida offers a finicky strain of trip options for every lifestyle and resources.

Florida Panhandled: Many general destinations lie within the sphere known as the Florida Panhandle, plus Panama City Beach, Santa Rosa, Destin, and Pensacola Beach. You can find a polite form of escape rentals that are right on the coast, as well as rentals located more in the city limits. Florida Panhandle trip rentals are year-globular destinations. In Destin you can have over 24 miles of dirty fair beaches, water activities plus snorkeling, booming-sea fishing and diving, and dolphin study.

In Panama City Beach, current holiday rentals include condos and houses on Shell Island and M.B Miller County Pier. There is no shortage of activity in Panama City- from water sports to hide-sea fishing to amusement parks and the ever-standard, wineglass foot boat tours, you will forever find exciting effects to do while on retreat. If you’re interested in aquatic life, outing the Gulf World Marine Park while staying in your leave rentals, for shows and encounters with lively dolphins.

Orlando: The most current holiday destination in Florida, Orlando boasts hundreds of theme parks, amusement and water parks, and family fun centers. Rentals can be found right in the spirit of trip activity, or a little extra away from it all depending on your preference. Home to Walt Disney World, Sea World, Universal Orlando and Daytona Speedway, it’s simple to overlook everything also Orlando has to suggest vacationers. Orlando also home to some of the most superb botanical gardens and makeup trails. You can find abundance of biking trails, as well as ordinary springs. Vacationers sans relaxation rather than nonstop action can like many of the areas crude attractions instead of the amusement parks that disclose the geographical position.

Miami: A gorgeous Florida holiday destination, and the only avow to have two citizen parks. The Everglades National Park is considered a feral network that cannot be found anywhere besides on earth. The Biscayne National Park boasts the only living sultry reef in the United States. There is a nice class of trip options within Miami. Speedways and amusements for the active types and steamy relaxation for those looking to get away for some, much desirable “R and R.” You have a swarm of options in your strain of rentals also, from beachfront resorts, to art deco boutique hotels in the city, to reserved homes along the coastline.

Florida Keys. The keys are actually some islands that are part of Florida. Key West home to the renowned “Duvall Street.” Many popular establishments have a Duvall Street Address, including “Sloppy Joes Bar,” which was a preferred pause for Ernest Hemingway when he was living in Key West. The avenue also boasts numerous art galleries. Each night, both tourists and locals pick in Mallory Square to enjoy what is known as the Sunset Fest. The Sunset Fest allows people to enjoy one another’s crowd while scrutiny the beauty of the evening and listening to narrow musicians and scrutiny Key West Carnival acts. Key West holiday rentals include cottages, motels, hotels and homes. Key Largo is the diving capital of the world! Whether you are new to the undersea world or are a veteran diver, Key Largo offers exceptional worth diving vacations. John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, a favorite underwater park, is located in Key Largo. Even if you are unable or unwilling to try diving, you can enjoy the beautiful coral reefs by charming a pester in one of the beaker-floor boats. Key Largo is the flanking island to Miami, located about an hour and thirty notes from Miami International airport, which makes the destination improve for day visitors from Miami, or for complete holiday stays in a variety of rentals.

Whether you’re looking for an action packed holiday, or one that allows you and your family to relax on sandy beaches- Florida has many locations to meet your wishes.



SALYARDS

Kadence Buchanan asked:


If the age-old saying is correct about variety being the spice of life then Sonoma County of Northern California is, in fact, “sugar and spice and everything nice.” In other words, Sonoma County is a true delight in every sense of the word. Within its total area of roughly 1,800 square miles, eleven percent of which is covered by water, it is well endowed with extensive variety of nature’s gifts. Sonoma County has dry land formation such as mountain ranges and flat lands; a wide assortment of bodies of water that include rivers, streams, creeks, lakes, marshlands, bays and an ocean; a generous selection of wooded lands that consist of an oak woodland, a redwood forest, northern coastal scrub, grasslands, an oak savanna, a riparian woodland and vineyards. It has lots and lots of vineyards.

Sonoma County, the land of nature’s delights, can be found in northern California which also happens to be northwestern part of the United States and it is surrounded by the Pacific Ocean on its west with 76 miles of coastline beaches and hydrographic formations such as Bodega Bay as well as the mouths of the Russian and the Gualala Rivers, and with Marin County on its south, Mendocino County on its north, Napa County on its east, Lake County on its northeast, Solano and Contra Costa Counties on its southeast.

Now that we have had a chance to glance at Sonoma County as a complete package or, better yet, as a broad picture, let us focus in on some of the details:

Dry Land …

1. The Mayacamas Mountains are part of the California Coast Ranges and their highest peak is Cobb Mountain at 4,724 feet above sea level. The Mayacamas Mountains also include Mount Saint Helena and Hood Mountain.

2. The Sonoma Mountain provides a spectacular view of the Pacific Ocean on the West and the entire Sonoma Valley on the east from its moderate height of 2,287 feet above sea level. Sonoma Mountain’s most southern crest is well known as Sear Point and projects into the San Pablo Bay.

3. Sonoma Valley is also known as the Valley of the Moon and it is the flat basin of Sonoma County and the place of birth of California’s viticulture.

Wooded Lands …

1. Oak woodland is a portion of land in Sonoma County that is overgrown with oak trees that form only limited shading which then promote undergrowth of shrubs, herbs and grasses.

2. Redwood forest is populated by redwoods which are also known as Sequoias. Reaching heights of up to 380 feet, these giants are known as the world’s tallest trees and at up to 26 feet in diameter, they are not skinny either.

Bodies of Water …

1, The Russian River runs southward from Lake Mendocino and is Sonoma County’s largest river. The Russian River’s largest offshoot is Laguna de Santa Rosa and is purported to be the home of the most abundant and varied wildlife in Sonoma County. The largest tributary of Laguna de Santa Rosa is Santa Rosa Creek which, in turn, has Brush, Mark West, Mantanzas, Spring and Piner Creeks as its key tributaries.

2. Sonoma County’s additional bodies of water are the Petaluma River; San Antonio, Americano and Sonoma Creeks; San Pablo and San Francisco Bays; Sonoma, Tolay Ilsanjo, Ralphine and Fountaingrove Lakes; and last but certainly not least, the Pacific Ocean.

As I have said in my opening statement, Sonoma County is a true geographic and topographic delight.



DARAKJY

Kadence Buchanan asked:


Yes, Sonoma County of Northern California is indeed a virtual treasure chest packed to the utmost with a wealth of human history and their wide variety of cultures, their ethnicities, their traditions, their philosophies and their aspirations. It would take many volumes of huge tomes to accurately depict their stories in detail. But, as my space here is limited, I shall attempt to abbreviate as best as I can and only hope that I do them justice. However, if my endeavors fall short and I have not given their stories the voice that they so earnestly deserve, I beg their forgiveness as well as yours.

Human history began in Sonoma County with the Pomo, the Coast Miwok and the Wappo Indian nations who were its first known inhabitants between 8000 and 5000 BC. These early natives were attracted to this part of the world by many of its positive aspects but the main and most significant ones were:

* The easy access to many and varying bodies of water which served them for transportation, recreation, hygiene, hydration, ritualistic ceremonies and provided them with an abundance of fishing opportunities.

* The availability of a great number of hunting grounds for large and small game on the region’s dry lands, wetlands, swamps and forests. Additionally, the area’s indigenous and migratory birds were countless.

* The richness and fertility of the soil provided them great means to grow and cultivate their edible, ritualistic and medicinal fruits, vegetables, grains and herbs.

* The temperate climate made for an easy and comfortable existence without the need to worry or struggle with extreme heat and unbearable cold.

Each of the Indians tribes I mentioned above prospered and thrived while living in peace with each other and in harmony with nature. Life in Sonoma County was good until the white men arrived.

Beginning with the late 16th century until the middle part of the 19th century, new settlers began arriving from Europe, particularly from Spain and Russia, by the shiploads. They were on a quest to find lands for farming, furs and timber for commerce and to “civilize” and convert the natives into Christianity.

The first permanent Russian settlement grounded its roots along the seacoast of Sonoma County in 1812 and was named Fort Ross. Fort Ross was sold to a Mexican pioneer in 1841 and most of the Russians left the area. Concurrently, the Spaniards were establishing a chain of missions on the coast of California. Their 21st and last California mission ended up in the Sonoma County region in 1823 and was named Mission San Francisco Solano.

California was annexed as a State on the United States in 1850 and Sonoma County was officially recognized as a county with its local government in the City of Sonoma. In 1854, however, the county’s government relocated to the larger city of Santa Rosa.

Today, Sonoma County is still governed from its county seat in Santa Rosa and to commemorate its historic treasures, many grand monuments have been erected within its borders.



AZEVEDO

Swati A asked:


If you want to enjoy best California wine then Sonoma wine region is a perfect place to experience it. Unlike the neighboring Napa wine region which is more commercialized, Sonoma wine country has is more smaller and family owned and operated kind of wineries. You will find very friendly people in Sonoma country wine tasting rooms, more than anywhere in the whole wine growing region. Sonoma wine country has more than 200 wineries (big and small) and it has about 100 thousand acres wine growing land.

Sonoma has 5 distinct wine-growing districts: Dry Creek Valley, Los Carneros District, Sonoma Valley, Russian River Valley and Alexander Valley. You will find the premium quality wines of both white and red wine, famous categories include Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Pino, Syrah, Zinfandel, Shiraz and very often vineyards have their own special wine. The best time to visit the region is during summers when the vines/grape plants are loaded with grapes. Although it can be a bit warm, it is truly the best time to enjoy the true ambiance of the region.

To reach the Sonoma wine country, just drive 30 miles north of Golden gate bridge and about 20 miles more to reach the wine growing heartland of the region. You can alternatively fly here by using the services of Horizon airlines which connects Sonoma county’s Santa Rosa Airport (RSA) to Los Angeles, Las Vegas and Seattle. There are shuttle buses (Airporter Express) directly from San Francisco and Oakland airports to the county. Although there is public transport available in bigger cities of the county, to visit the core wine region you will need to drive on your own. To fully enjoy the region, we suggest you to stay here for at least a few days and not plan just a day-trip. Sonoma county has more to offer than just wine, it is a huge entertainment location on its own offering a variety of activities and attractions, some of which are listed below.

POPULAR TOURIST ATTRACTIONS AND ACTIVITIES:

1. Take a hot air balloon ride end enjoy the vastness and beauty of wine region from the sky. There are many hot air ballooning operators in the region.

2. Visit the beautiful River rock casino at Russian river and Alexander valley, offering a range of services to their guests.

3. Point Arena Lighthouse and Museum.

4. Boating and fishing facilities at the Sonoma coast along the Pacific ocean and along the Russian river. Rent a cabin at Jenner facing the ocean and spend the night with your loved ones.

5. Taste the Sonoma county goat cheese considered the best in country.

6. Safari west wildlife preserve.

7. Hike at the Armstrong Redwoods state reserve .

8. Infineon Raceway where you can enjoy professional car racing experience.

9. Fort Ross State Historic Park: The site of trading post and fort established by Russians in 1812.

10. Train Ride and wine train.

11. Petrified forest and old faithful geyser in Calistoga.

12. Several premium Golf courses, Spa’s and shopping malls for you to relax.

13. Being so close to San Francisco you may also consider visiting the GOLDEN GATE bridge, Pier 39,Alcatraz, China Town and the famous Crooked street of SF Downtown.

14. Luther Burbank Home and Gardens: Life and work of the horticulturist who introduced 800 variety of flowers, fruits, nuts etc..

15. Nightlife is good too, there are several bars and clubs especially in Santa Rosa.

Great websites for comprehensive information are sonoma-county.org and sonomacounty.com

 

 



TEXTOR

Joe Loiacano asked:


If you thinking of a perfect place to have an overnight camp, a picnic, or simply a place to relax and enjoy, try the Tenaja Falls. Experience the fun of incredible roadside views while on your way and enjoy the beauty of the rushing waters, lush vegetations, beautiful rock formations, and breathtaking views at the top.

The Tenaja Falls is part of Cleveland National Forest in California and the most interesting natural feature of the San Mateo Canyon Wilderness. Tenaja Falls is 15 miles south of Ortega Highway.  From Ortega Highway, you will pass through the city of Lake Elsinore and head south on I-15 then exit to Clinton Keith west into the Santa Ana Mountains. To your right, you will pass the Santa Rosa Plateau. Continue on Clinton Keith until you reach Tenaja Road, then turn right. Look for the Cleveland Forest Road. It’s a small right turn with a small white sign that can be easily missed, so pay attention. The road is very narrow but is paved. After a mile and a half on the Cleveland Forest Road, you will pass the trailhead for the South Tenaja Trail; the next trailhead you come to is the Tenaja Falls trailhead.

Upon reaching the trailhead, a pleasant half-hour hike will take you to Tenaja Falls; when the water is flowing, it is quite a dramatic sight. The best time to view the falls is on the spring when the water rushes over the rocks, especially if you want to go swimming, when wildflowers and birds are abundant. You may enjoy the view on the surrounding rocks or can even have picnic. Just a caution – poison oak is abundant year-round in the area. So if you are bringing kids with you, it is better to have a high leveled car. Always keep an eye on them also.

It is also fun climbing around the rocks viewing the beautiful San Mateo wilderness. Overnight camping is allowed in this area, a perfect place because the hike to the top is relatively easy. Just remember to be eco-friendly by keeping your trash and bringing it down with you on your way back home.

Tenaja Falls is more suited for friends’ hangout. It is relatively safe and reachable, plus the only real costs involved are gas. I know what you’re thinking but its not that bad. Good news is there are no permits and reservations necessary. You don’t need the presence of guides and gears; just pure fun. This is also an ideal place for dating couples. The views are fantastic and the seclusion of the place is quite romantic.



SELLE

Ling Tong asked:


For its small size, Costa Rica packs a wallop in the number of tourist attractions it has for its visitors. There are Costa Rican tourist attractions in every region of the country with sights that you won’t be able to see anywhere else. Take a trip to the Arenal Volcano Observatory Park where you can stand on the observation deck to have magnificent views of an active volcano. The park also offers hiking opportunities to cascading waterfalls, towers and monuments. You can even choose to stay in the park because there is a lodge within its boundaries.

The church of Our Lady of Los Angeles is the most famous church in the country. It is located in Cartago in the Central Valley. The story behind this church is that a statue was discovered on this site in 1635 and miraculously reappeared after it was removed. A church was then built on the site and the location became the site of shrine to which thousands of pilgrims journey on August 2 of each year. Many healings have been attributed to this church and the site of the gifts and offerings left by those healed is an impressive sight.

On the Central Pacific Coast you have to see and walk the Rainmaker. This is a series of suspension bridges that run through the canopy of the rainforest, the first aerial walkway in Central America. From the walkway you can see a trail through the rainforest as well as many waterfalls. At its highest point the bridges are 25 stories tall. In this same area, you can also take the Rainforest Aerial Tram that moves along the rainforest canopy. There is a naturalist guide on every trip to point our sights of interest and to alert you to the sight of animals you otherwise may miss.

In Monteverde, two of the must see attractions are the Cloud Forest and the Butterfly Garden. The Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Reserve where you can see thousands of species of birds and animals in their natural habitat. The hike through the forest is very scenic with tall trees, rapids and waterfalls. At the Butterfly Garden, you will see hundreds of species of butterflies in the screened garden. There are many photo opportunities to see butterflies in virtually every color of the rainbow.

Visit the oldest park in the country, Santa Rosa Park, when you visit the Northwest. It is here you will see the nesting sea turtles on the beach. There are attractive beaches here that are open to the public and there is a vast network of hiking trails that lets you see the wildlife and plant life of the area. This World Heritage Site is the last remaining dry rainforest in Central America.

San Jose is a treasure trove of tourist attractions, chief of which is the Pre-Columbian Gold Museum.  Here you will see one of the largest collections of gold from before the discovery of the country by Christopher Columbus. In addition to the gold artifacts, this museum also house paintings and a postal stamp museum. The Jade Museum houses one of the largest collections of Jade, but it also offers the most breathtaking views of the city from the windows of the 11th floor.



NUNAMAKER