Pura Vida

​A visit to Costa Rica featured high on my list of things to do this year. The landscape, animals and the reputation for peaceful, green and positive living, Pura Vida is what attracted me – and I wasn’t disappointed. The country has lots to offer, including stunning beaches, unspoilt jungle and adventure activities galore.
I went on a two week long varied trip organised by KE Adventure which covered volcanic highland savanna through to coastal jungle fringed beaches, accessible only by stepping over the side of the boat and timing your landing with the surf. The trip was led by the effervescent Joe Bernini, who was effective at spotting and identifying wildlife and interpreting the spirit of Pura Vida while handling all the organisational stuff. Little wonder he has been voted a winner of Leader of the Year by KE Adventure clients.
Highlights of the trip for me were the antics of the spider monkeys, bathing in refreshingly cool pools beneath dramatic waterfalls and the privilege of close up views of a Quetzel, a fashionista of the bird world.