Our homeward bound flights took us from JFK to Cincinnati to Des Moines. Originally had a 3 hr layover in Cincinnati, but found out we were delayed - ended up delayed over 4+ hrs...ugh! And let me tell you, if you've never flown through Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky airport, you're not missing much. It's basically a hub for Delta and that's about it. Fun...
Apparently while we were gone, Des Moines got hit with more rain & flooding. Could sadly see the damage from the plane on our way in...
Have been home almost a week and am finally adjusting to the real world. I appreciate being in a country where they believe in toliet paper, toliet seats & soap in the bathrooms - something I won't miss from Tunisia. However, I will actually miss the dry, 100+ heat of Tunisia over the humidity of Iowa.
Sicily & Tunisia contrasted each other significantly. Sicily was so calm, serene & peaceful where as Tunisia was little more fast paced, crowded and a tad bit dirtier. It was good to see both cultures and it makes you appreciate what you have. It's always good to step out of your comfort zone...but good to know you can always go home! :)
Sadly, school starts (for me) on the 11th, so the traveling will have to subside for a while...sob sob sniff sniff... But, you know me, I won't be able to sit still for long...am hoping to do something for my birthday!! :)
I feel quite blessed for the amazing experiences I have had this summer. I have seen so many amazing things, have met some quite outstanding people, and made some friends this summer. I, of course, have oodles of pics...some that capture the moments and others that possibly could not capture the feeling. But, as CS Lewis said, "One who has journeyed in a foreign land cannot return unchanges."
Hope you've enjoyed reading this - Thanks to those who have read it!!
Check back - (I gotta figure out how to post pics)- you never know what I'll be up to next.... ;)
Con carino ~ steph :)
Sunday, August 3, 2008
Friday, August 1, 2008
Adios Africa - Hello America!! 7/28
Had a noon flight out of Tunisia. Their airport is definitely different than ours. You can only check in when they say you can (usually 2 hrs before hand) and it's usually a chaotic mess. Paris was like that as well.
Our flights are Tunis to Paris (2 hrs) and then Paris to NYC/JFK, all on Air France. The Paris to NYC flight was amazing. I got my seat assignment - row 69. I'm thinking, wow, this must be a huge plane for 69 rows...yep and I was UPSTAIRS!!! Yes, this is an old 747 that has an upper deck and I was seated up there!! It was kind of business-class-like. Extra leg room, TV screens in the backs of the seats. All my other planes this summer had the TV's in the seats, but on this one, downstairs, nope. Since it's an older plane, they haven't updated it yet, so those poor folks downstairs didn't have a choice of movies and just had screens up on the ceiling...oh, remember those days!?!? My, how times have changed. We've come to expect movies/TV on demand and when we don't get to choose, we pitch a fit.
Needless to say, everyone in our group kept wandering up to check on us and see what life was like upstairs. There were 5 of us there with LOADS of students. There were groups of Italians & Spaniards going to USA to study. They were scattered all over the plane, so they used our upstairs oasis as a lounge - good thing I didn't want to sleep.
NY wasn't bad, surprisingly, to get through Immigration. I expected it to be a zoo, but wasn't. Customs had a huge line since they only had 2 guys working...basically, they looked at your Customs Claim Form and let you go - no searching of luggage! WOO HOO!!
Had an overnight at the Hilton where we all basically checked in, ate dinner and went to bed. It was at dinner that someone pointed out that we had been on 3 continents today!! That floored me!! Wow!!!
Said good-byes to everyone at dinner since we're all on different flights in the morning. It's amazing...when you travel with people over an extended time period and talk to them every day and laugh with them every day, you grow attached. It's always hard going home since those people aren't around and they're the only ones who share those memories with you. It's always lonely when they aren't there in the morning at breakfast, or when you see something that reminds you of them - it makes you smile. Those are the best souveneirs to bring home - the memories & experiences with people, not necessarily the destinations.
Our flights are Tunis to Paris (2 hrs) and then Paris to NYC/JFK, all on Air France. The Paris to NYC flight was amazing. I got my seat assignment - row 69. I'm thinking, wow, this must be a huge plane for 69 rows...yep and I was UPSTAIRS!!! Yes, this is an old 747 that has an upper deck and I was seated up there!! It was kind of business-class-like. Extra leg room, TV screens in the backs of the seats. All my other planes this summer had the TV's in the seats, but on this one, downstairs, nope. Since it's an older plane, they haven't updated it yet, so those poor folks downstairs didn't have a choice of movies and just had screens up on the ceiling...oh, remember those days!?!? My, how times have changed. We've come to expect movies/TV on demand and when we don't get to choose, we pitch a fit.
Needless to say, everyone in our group kept wandering up to check on us and see what life was like upstairs. There were 5 of us there with LOADS of students. There were groups of Italians & Spaniards going to USA to study. They were scattered all over the plane, so they used our upstairs oasis as a lounge - good thing I didn't want to sleep.
NY wasn't bad, surprisingly, to get through Immigration. I expected it to be a zoo, but wasn't. Customs had a huge line since they only had 2 guys working...basically, they looked at your Customs Claim Form and let you go - no searching of luggage! WOO HOO!!
Had an overnight at the Hilton where we all basically checked in, ate dinner and went to bed. It was at dinner that someone pointed out that we had been on 3 continents today!! That floored me!! Wow!!!
Said good-byes to everyone at dinner since we're all on different flights in the morning. It's amazing...when you travel with people over an extended time period and talk to them every day and laugh with them every day, you grow attached. It's always hard going home since those people aren't around and they're the only ones who share those memories with you. It's always lonely when they aren't there in the morning at breakfast, or when you see something that reminds you of them - it makes you smile. Those are the best souveneirs to bring home - the memories & experiences with people, not necessarily the destinations.
Free Day 7/27/08
Was a rough day today...nothing scheduled until 3...meaning, I could sleep in!!! Woo hoo!! Had a nice, slow morning of breakfast and lounging by the pool. It was a rough day - not a cloud in the sky. Stayed inside our hotel compound and just chilled...rough....Not used to this - typically when I travel with kids, it's GO, GO and then GO some more. This chillin' stuff is sometimes hard to adjust to.
At 3, we headed to an amazing museum, El Bardo, with some of the most amazing Mosaics I have seen. Many still intact...and huge! Just made you wonder how they excavated them and moved them here. Many Roman statues as well...without their noses. By losing a bet, I found out that when the towns were invades, they would knock over the Roman statues (thus the noses breaking since they were the first things to hit) or they would break off the noses in a sign of disrespect.
Our farewell dinner was in the heart of the Medina. Is a different place without all the crazy hagglers trying to give you "good deal." The room was spectacular - decorated in bright colors & arabic style. Food was outstanding - had lamb. I got to be the "lucky" one to present our driver & guides their tip money and say a few words. We did lots of group pics and said some good-byes to those we wouldn't see in the morning. All of us are on the same flights except the couple that has to go to the Embassy.
Of course, I had to pay up on the bet that I lost. Had to buy drinks. But, since it's a Sunday, none of the bars in the "compound" were serving except the lower garden bar. It was a scavenger hunt trying to find it...and then, come to find out, they aren't serving wine. Oh, well, was a beautiful night for chillin' and reminiscin'...
At 3, we headed to an amazing museum, El Bardo, with some of the most amazing Mosaics I have seen. Many still intact...and huge! Just made you wonder how they excavated them and moved them here. Many Roman statues as well...without their noses. By losing a bet, I found out that when the towns were invades, they would knock over the Roman statues (thus the noses breaking since they were the first things to hit) or they would break off the noses in a sign of disrespect.
Our farewell dinner was in the heart of the Medina. Is a different place without all the crazy hagglers trying to give you "good deal." The room was spectacular - decorated in bright colors & arabic style. Food was outstanding - had lamb. I got to be the "lucky" one to present our driver & guides their tip money and say a few words. We did lots of group pics and said some good-byes to those we wouldn't see in the morning. All of us are on the same flights except the couple that has to go to the Embassy.
Of course, I had to pay up on the bet that I lost. Had to buy drinks. But, since it's a Sunday, none of the bars in the "compound" were serving except the lower garden bar. It was a scavenger hunt trying to find it...and then, come to find out, they aren't serving wine. Oh, well, was a beautiful night for chillin' and reminiscin'...
Thursday, July 31, 2008
Camels!!!! Oh, wait...Dromedaries!!! 7/26/08
So, today I was told that riding the camel/dromedary was not an option. We had to vote on it and us camel riders lost out...hence some of the beverages consumed the previous night at the "camel table." Well....I rode a dromedary today!!! We saw one at a pit stop where you had to tip people to get your picture with them. Seems to be the common thread anywhere. We were told not to take pics of locals and, if we did, then it was expected that you would tip them.
The day started out quite hot - go figure! We stopped in the lovely town of Kairouan - south of Tunis, and saw 2 beautfiul mosques. You had to have your knees and shoulders covered to enter or you could rent a robe. At the first place, many paid the 1 dinar to rent them and then got smart at the 2nd place and just pulled their bermuda shorts down far enough to cover their knees - was quite hilarious watching that!!
Then, we got to see a carpet show - good deals for you!! Watched the whole show....yadda yadda...we ship for you...whatever... just a few people bought rugs. I was not one of them!
We kept heading south and east and stopped at El Jem, with this HUGE Roman Colosseum. We even went underneath where they kept the animals and the Gladiators before their big show down. On our way out, there were 2 dromedaries (1 hump camels) and I figured I'd just get my pic with it...next thing I know, the guy puts me up on one and off I go!!! Quite awkward, but still....I got to ride a camel/dromedary in Africa!!! Woo hoo!!
The landscape in Tunisia is quite different. Up, along the coast, it was quite mountainous and green, but the farther south we went, it was barren, desert, flat, not much vegetation, etc... Quite interesting...and real hot! ugh! Luckily our driver keeps our bus freezing!! Gotta love Rauof!!
Another evening of good dinner, some polka dancing with good friends, good wine & good laughter!!
The day started out quite hot - go figure! We stopped in the lovely town of Kairouan - south of Tunis, and saw 2 beautfiul mosques. You had to have your knees and shoulders covered to enter or you could rent a robe. At the first place, many paid the 1 dinar to rent them and then got smart at the 2nd place and just pulled their bermuda shorts down far enough to cover their knees - was quite hilarious watching that!!
Then, we got to see a carpet show - good deals for you!! Watched the whole show....yadda yadda...we ship for you...whatever... just a few people bought rugs. I was not one of them!
We kept heading south and east and stopped at El Jem, with this HUGE Roman Colosseum. We even went underneath where they kept the animals and the Gladiators before their big show down. On our way out, there were 2 dromedaries (1 hump camels) and I figured I'd just get my pic with it...next thing I know, the guy puts me up on one and off I go!!! Quite awkward, but still....I got to ride a camel/dromedary in Africa!!! Woo hoo!!
The landscape in Tunisia is quite different. Up, along the coast, it was quite mountainous and green, but the farther south we went, it was barren, desert, flat, not much vegetation, etc... Quite interesting...and real hot! ugh! Luckily our driver keeps our bus freezing!! Gotta love Rauof!!
Another evening of good dinner, some polka dancing with good friends, good wine & good laughter!!
Wednesday, July 30, 2008
Tunisia - 7/25/08
Tunisia is quite an interesting place. It's located in Northern Africa, between Algeria & Libya. Everyone speaks Arabic & French, so I was out of luck here. Hardly understood them most of the time, but there were quite a few people who spoke English. They have been courting the tourists, trying to attract them there, but them they've got some work to do.
We landed in the middle of the night and it was hot then - should've known what we were going to be in for...lots of heat!!
So, our first experience in Tunis was quite an interesting one. Remember we were just coming from Sicily - very European, calm, serene, peaceful.... Tunis = EXACT opposite!! Our frist stop with our guide, Tarak & driver, Rauof, was the Medina and the shopping there. Imagine a small, dark, cramped alley filled with little shops and VERY pushy people trying to sell you stuff you don't need at elevated prices....yep...learn to haggle. Of course, they're trying every language, guessing where you are from, and trying to engage you, hoping something in their tiny shops will catch your eye. With my sunglasses on, I was told I would get a good deal because I have pretty eyes....yep, had shades on, so would be a little difficult to tell. Got a "English? Fish & Chips" comment, which I quickly replied, "No, burger & fries." :) Good idea to travel in packs down through the Medina - never wander alone - you're a sitting duck!! Did pick up a watercolor piece of art for a "good deal." Some people made out like bandits - others, not so much.
Luckily it was a National Holiday, so it wasn't so busy, so we trotted on over to the Market - which had just about anything you could think of - fresh fish, fruits, veggies, spices, camel testicles, leg of lamb, etc.... The floor in the fish market was disgusting - it was not for the weak of heart, or stomach.
Sadly, one of my amigos got pick-pocketed in the Medina or Market and lost his passport & credit cards, so off to the police station & Embassy they went.
After a glorious lunch, we headed to Carthage - that was amazing - with all the ruins and Roman baths...wow!! Such a gorgeous setting right on the water - wow! But, damn, it was hot - we were guessing over a 100, easily!! Stopped at another Roman amphitheater and climbed to the top. Was very well-preserved.
Our last stop was Sidi Bou Said - a combo of the white-washed, blue-domed villages of Greece with some Spanish architecture perched on the cliffs overlooking the Bay of Tunis. The legend tells of Saint Louis - coming to wage war he fell in love with a Berber princess and, changing his name became the patron saint of this village where he lived in joy and peace. Was lovely, and hot.... pushy people here as well...never wander alone!!!
Evening entertainment? Dancing the polka with the other travelers and doing a snowball dance - everyone got involved. Wine always helps with this!! I've got some entertaining people traveling with me, that's for sure!!
Good travel tip if every going to Northern Africa? Never leave home without toliet paper and some hand sanitizer. They rarely have TP nor soap, possibly not even toliet seats, in the public toliets. Yes, there's a stool, but people have bad aim. There's also a hose right next to toliet for a fresh feel, but then the floors are disgusting...get my drift?!!? Tunisian bathrooms are DISGUSTING!!!! (just thougth I'd share....)
We landed in the middle of the night and it was hot then - should've known what we were going to be in for...lots of heat!!
So, our first experience in Tunis was quite an interesting one. Remember we were just coming from Sicily - very European, calm, serene, peaceful.... Tunis = EXACT opposite!! Our frist stop with our guide, Tarak & driver, Rauof, was the Medina and the shopping there. Imagine a small, dark, cramped alley filled with little shops and VERY pushy people trying to sell you stuff you don't need at elevated prices....yep...learn to haggle. Of course, they're trying every language, guessing where you are from, and trying to engage you, hoping something in their tiny shops will catch your eye. With my sunglasses on, I was told I would get a good deal because I have pretty eyes....yep, had shades on, so would be a little difficult to tell. Got a "English? Fish & Chips" comment, which I quickly replied, "No, burger & fries." :) Good idea to travel in packs down through the Medina - never wander alone - you're a sitting duck!! Did pick up a watercolor piece of art for a "good deal." Some people made out like bandits - others, not so much.
Luckily it was a National Holiday, so it wasn't so busy, so we trotted on over to the Market - which had just about anything you could think of - fresh fish, fruits, veggies, spices, camel testicles, leg of lamb, etc.... The floor in the fish market was disgusting - it was not for the weak of heart, or stomach.
Sadly, one of my amigos got pick-pocketed in the Medina or Market and lost his passport & credit cards, so off to the police station & Embassy they went.
After a glorious lunch, we headed to Carthage - that was amazing - with all the ruins and Roman baths...wow!! Such a gorgeous setting right on the water - wow! But, damn, it was hot - we were guessing over a 100, easily!! Stopped at another Roman amphitheater and climbed to the top. Was very well-preserved.
Our last stop was Sidi Bou Said - a combo of the white-washed, blue-domed villages of Greece with some Spanish architecture perched on the cliffs overlooking the Bay of Tunis. The legend tells of Saint Louis - coming to wage war he fell in love with a Berber princess and, changing his name became the patron saint of this village where he lived in joy and peace. Was lovely, and hot.... pushy people here as well...never wander alone!!!
Evening entertainment? Dancing the polka with the other travelers and doing a snowball dance - everyone got involved. Wine always helps with this!! I've got some entertaining people traveling with me, that's for sure!!
Good travel tip if every going to Northern Africa? Never leave home without toliet paper and some hand sanitizer. They rarely have TP nor soap, possibly not even toliet seats, in the public toliets. Yes, there's a stool, but people have bad aim. There's also a hose right next to toliet for a fresh feel, but then the floors are disgusting...get my drift?!!? Tunisian bathrooms are DISGUSTING!!!! (just thougth I'd share....)
Wednesday, July 23, 2008
Port town of Palermo
So, Palermo is up in the north of Sicily. It's a port town that has many ferries & cruise ships dock here. Today we toured it - last night it just look 'okay' but today....WOW! We went into 2 of the most spectacular churches I have ever seen. Both were decorated in tiles - the whole thing...walls, ceiling, flooring...amazing.
One was named Monreale, up in the mountain side - it was absolutely breathtaking. All the main scenes from the book of Genesis were done in tiles around the top of the santuary...gold being the main color. Then above the alter was a huge mosaic of Jesus....who was 21 ft tall!!! It was absolutely unreal!! So hard to describe - I'll have to upload pics to you can see them!!
Wandered around town after lunch. My amigos went back to the hotel and I kept wandering and just after I left them, I crossed another road down by the National theater only to be a witness to a car take out a moped. Mopeds are EVERYWHERE here...and they are crazy suckers! They don't break for ANYTHING or ANYONE, so pedestrian BEWARE!... Yep, well this lady must not have seen this twenty year old and she went sprawling, her helmet went flying...cops showed up...ambulance a little while later....ticked off drivers honking their horns.... ahhhh, the peaceful sounds of Sicily....
Tonight is our Farewell dinner....for those not going to Tunisia...that's not me, but we get a good dinner out of it. Have made some new amigos...the EF staff has taken great care of us! We get our luggage portered to our room...nice!! My mom would love that!!
Hope everyone survived the crazy, windy weather back home & that you have power!
**steph :)
One was named Monreale, up in the mountain side - it was absolutely breathtaking. All the main scenes from the book of Genesis were done in tiles around the top of the santuary...gold being the main color. Then above the alter was a huge mosaic of Jesus....who was 21 ft tall!!! It was absolutely unreal!! So hard to describe - I'll have to upload pics to you can see them!!
Wandered around town after lunch. My amigos went back to the hotel and I kept wandering and just after I left them, I crossed another road down by the National theater only to be a witness to a car take out a moped. Mopeds are EVERYWHERE here...and they are crazy suckers! They don't break for ANYTHING or ANYONE, so pedestrian BEWARE!... Yep, well this lady must not have seen this twenty year old and she went sprawling, her helmet went flying...cops showed up...ambulance a little while later....ticked off drivers honking their horns.... ahhhh, the peaceful sounds of Sicily....
Tonight is our Farewell dinner....for those not going to Tunisia...that's not me, but we get a good dinner out of it. Have made some new amigos...the EF staff has taken great care of us! We get our luggage portered to our room...nice!! My mom would love that!!
Hope everyone survived the crazy, windy weather back home & that you have power!
**steph :)
Tuesday, July 22, 2008
Ciao Taormina...Buon giorno Palermo!!
Well, sadly today we had to leave the lovely town of Taormina! This was one of those typical Italian/Sicilian cities you would picture in your brain. Narrow little alley ways and streets, no sidewalks, everyone out strolling at night eating gelatto...very typical. Was right on the Sea and had gorgeous views of Mt. Etna...can't really go wrong, can you?!?!!?
Today we headed out to Cefalu, a quaint little fishing village up on the Sea...absolutely gorgeous! We had about 2 hrs of free time and had an amazing lunch sea side with the waves crashing up against the rocks...aaahhhh...Then we wandered around down by the beach and the rocks.... was a gorgeous day - not too hot, finally!!
For the next few nights, we're staying in Palmero, also up in the north on the Tyrrhenain Sea. Our hotel is nice - quite modern, with uncomfy beds...go figure! Is a port town, so there are quite a few ferries that go out of here destined for a variety of places. It's a fairly large town, so this afternoon we chose to wander around. Tomorrow we're doing a whole walking tour.
Learned a bit about Olive Oil today. Interestingly enough, the best stuff comes when the olives are pressed right after picking. Apparently the local buy it from people they know instead of the big companies and store it, for up to a year, in glass jars. Some companies buy their olives cheaply from Spain & Tunisia/Northern Africa and then press them in Italy and claim it's Italian oil...interesting.
Haven't heard much about the Mafia since being here. That's apparently a good thing. When you hear about them, or they are active, it's because they're feeling the squeeze coming from somewhere.....let's just hope it stays quiet!!!
**steph, still super-excited about her ATVing day yesterday....wow!!!
Today we headed out to Cefalu, a quaint little fishing village up on the Sea...absolutely gorgeous! We had about 2 hrs of free time and had an amazing lunch sea side with the waves crashing up against the rocks...aaahhhh...Then we wandered around down by the beach and the rocks.... was a gorgeous day - not too hot, finally!!
For the next few nights, we're staying in Palmero, also up in the north on the Tyrrhenain Sea. Our hotel is nice - quite modern, with uncomfy beds...go figure! Is a port town, so there are quite a few ferries that go out of here destined for a variety of places. It's a fairly large town, so this afternoon we chose to wander around. Tomorrow we're doing a whole walking tour.
Learned a bit about Olive Oil today. Interestingly enough, the best stuff comes when the olives are pressed right after picking. Apparently the local buy it from people they know instead of the big companies and store it, for up to a year, in glass jars. Some companies buy their olives cheaply from Spain & Tunisia/Northern Africa and then press them in Italy and claim it's Italian oil...interesting.
Haven't heard much about the Mafia since being here. That's apparently a good thing. When you hear about them, or they are active, it's because they're feeling the squeeze coming from somewhere.....let's just hope it stays quiet!!!
**steph, still super-excited about her ATVing day yesterday....wow!!!
Monday, July 21, 2008
Sunburnt...and worth every Euro
Today was AMAZING! Possibly one of the best days of the summer!!
It was our optional tour out to the Aeolian/Iolian Islands...which wasn't an optional, it was included. So, we went out to Lipari in our own private boat...yeah....Sun was a shining... good stuff. So we wandered around Lipari, soaked up the sun and enjoyed this gorgeous island. Then, back on the boat for lunch and a tour of some smaller islands, including Stromboli - the active volcano island. The water surrounded these islands is about the most beautiful turquoise blue I've ever seen.
Our last stop of the day was Vulcana, where they have an infamous sulfer springs to bathe in and a black beach for sunbathing. I guess all the ash from the volcanos rains down on the beach and turns the sand black. So, was pretty excited to see this place - the sulfer springs stunk like gross rotten eggs. Well, then Guiseppe thows a curve ball at us and tells us that instead of chillin' on the beach, we could rent scooters and go around the island....HELL YEAH!!
So, with about 9 friends and our 2 guides, we all rented ATV's and went up to the top of this gorgeous island - could even see Etna in the background from one point and could see all the islands we had just seen earlier that day from the other side.!! IT WAS AWESOME!!! Had to be about the funnest (yes, I used funnest) day ever. What would have added would have been if we went off-roading a bit. Having the Sicilian sun and wind ripping through my hair and burning my skin....yeah, it was awesome!!!
It was our optional tour out to the Aeolian/Iolian Islands...which wasn't an optional, it was included. So, we went out to Lipari in our own private boat...yeah....Sun was a shining... good stuff. So we wandered around Lipari, soaked up the sun and enjoyed this gorgeous island. Then, back on the boat for lunch and a tour of some smaller islands, including Stromboli - the active volcano island. The water surrounded these islands is about the most beautiful turquoise blue I've ever seen.
Our last stop of the day was Vulcana, where they have an infamous sulfer springs to bathe in and a black beach for sunbathing. I guess all the ash from the volcanos rains down on the beach and turns the sand black. So, was pretty excited to see this place - the sulfer springs stunk like gross rotten eggs. Well, then Guiseppe thows a curve ball at us and tells us that instead of chillin' on the beach, we could rent scooters and go around the island....HELL YEAH!!
So, with about 9 friends and our 2 guides, we all rented ATV's and went up to the top of this gorgeous island - could even see Etna in the background from one point and could see all the islands we had just seen earlier that day from the other side.!! IT WAS AWESOME!!! Had to be about the funnest (yes, I used funnest) day ever. What would have added would have been if we went off-roading a bit. Having the Sicilian sun and wind ripping through my hair and burning my skin....yeah, it was awesome!!!
Sunday, July 20, 2008
Lazy Sunday
Today was our break-out sessions for our 4 hrs of Convention. There are 5 EF staff members here, who introduced themselves and then we had to do the same. It was supposed to be short, sweet & to the point....yeah right. Some went on & on...zzzzz. We heard about some of the new things that EF has been up to lately and then broke into groups and rotated amongst the EF'ers.
And, here's today's highlight.....
So, we're in our last focus group, sitting out on the terrace with Etna in the background, getting a little sun, when all of a sudden we hear rumble rumble.......then again rumble rumble.....and again....rumble rumble...about 10 more times. While we're speculating on what it was, the front desk guy comes out and explains to us that it was Etna we just heard.....YEP, heard ETNA rumbling today....was the coolest, craziest, weirdest thing I've ever heard...wonder what it would have been like had it happened yesterday when we were up there?!?!!? Holy frijoles! It was cool!!
After lunch, we spent a lazy day just wandering the streets of Taormina. Took the gondola/funicular down to the beach, had a drink & some ice cream and then met some friends & the EF staff for din-din. Nicely, they picked up the check....yeah!!
Tonight we're off for a tour of Castelmora, a castle up on the hill we'll get to see at sunset - maybe some lava action will be seen as well. Hope it cools off (but doubtful it will) - was quite warm today!!
Ciao Ciao **steph :)
p.s. Te amo Jack!!
And, here's today's highlight.....
So, we're in our last focus group, sitting out on the terrace with Etna in the background, getting a little sun, when all of a sudden we hear rumble rumble.......then again rumble rumble.....and again....rumble rumble...about 10 more times. While we're speculating on what it was, the front desk guy comes out and explains to us that it was Etna we just heard.....YEP, heard ETNA rumbling today....was the coolest, craziest, weirdest thing I've ever heard...wonder what it would have been like had it happened yesterday when we were up there?!?!!? Holy frijoles! It was cool!!
After lunch, we spent a lazy day just wandering the streets of Taormina. Took the gondola/funicular down to the beach, had a drink & some ice cream and then met some friends & the EF staff for din-din. Nicely, they picked up the check....yeah!!
Tonight we're off for a tour of Castelmora, a castle up on the hill we'll get to see at sunset - maybe some lava action will be seen as well. Hope it cools off (but doubtful it will) - was quite warm today!!
Ciao Ciao **steph :)
p.s. Te amo Jack!!
Saturday, July 19, 2008
Mt. Etna
We had to take a shuttle bus to our regular coach since it couldn't fit through the narrow, winding streets of Taormina. Then, an hour later, we were up by the craters of Mt. Etna. It's just as amazing as you would think. You can see the charred earth where the lava came down and the parts that were spared...unreal....We got to walk up & around this huge crater and saw a house that had lava come up and bury the side and back half of it in 2001. There's even a gondola you can take up and then hop in a jeep and go tour the volcano & see the lava. I guess no more insurance companies will insure this gondola....can't imagine why!?!? :) It is still spewing some lava. Tonight at dinner on our rough top terrace, you can see the lava flowing. Tonight's wasn't as much as our welcome lava of yesterday, but it's still amazing to be sitting there, thinking about where you are and the scenery around you. It's quite breath-taking.
I think Etna definitely beats out Poas and Arenal on the 'Coolest Volcano of the Summer' list.
I'm feeling quite blessed at the moment...
I think Etna definitely beats out Poas and Arenal on the 'Coolest Volcano of the Summer' list.
I'm feeling quite blessed at the moment...
Sicily
Well, this place is amazing! Took forever to get here but is worth it! We're off to Etna in about 5 minutos. Last night, when we landed, we could see lava flowing from Etna...what a welcome! We drove north up the coast to Taormina, which is a quaint little town nestled in the hillside...amazing! Is a tad warm, today, 80's, but is tolerable! Have met some lovely group leaders from all over the place. We can see Etna from our hotel...is amazing!!
Gotta jet - off to see my 3rd Volcano of the summer!!!
**steph :)
Gotta jet - off to see my 3rd Volcano of the summer!!!
**steph :)
Wednesday, July 16, 2008
Round 3: The Adventure Continues...
Tomorrow morning I am off to Sicily & Tunisia. Its going to take me 29+ hrs to get there, but I guess all the cool places take forever to get to and are hopefully worth it. I drove into Des Moines tonight to the Holiday Inn and am leaving my car here. I am attending an EF Convention for 13 days...of which only 4 hrs are actual 'convention' time...nice!!! My friend, Mary, from Riverside is coming along since she always brings kids, so will be nice to have an amiga around.
Of course, the fun already started here at the Holiday Inn. They give me my key, I lug ALL my stuff to the opposite corner of the hotel only to find someone in my room. So, I lug ALL my stuff back and they upgrade me to a Dome room, free drinks and complimentary snacks....nice!!
Let the fun begin....
*steph :)
Of course, the fun already started here at the Holiday Inn. They give me my key, I lug ALL my stuff to the opposite corner of the hotel only to find someone in my room. So, I lug ALL my stuff back and they upgrade me to a Dome room, free drinks and complimentary snacks....nice!!
Let the fun begin....
*steph :)
Monday, July 14, 2008
Casa Dulce Casa
HOME SWEET HOME!!!
It was a chore getting here, but I did. Made it on the shuttle, with about 20 other people. We had heard the lines to pay the taxes were going to be gianormous at the airpot, but being one of the last ones on the shuttle means your luggage comes off first. Got to the tax line...walked right up to the counter - NO LINES!! But, about 30 seconds after I did, a huge tour group showed up - great timing! Next hurdle was the Delta check-in. The Continental line was out to the sidewalk, but not Delta - walked right up to an attendant....that NEVER happens!! Made it through security just about as quick!! Flight left on time and off I went. Slept a bit on the plane. Made friends with the guy next to me, Juan, from Heredia, Costa Rica, who gave me his number so I can call him the next time in town...don't get any ideas, he's married and is about 50.
So, connecting through Atlanta on the way down wasn't bad...luck didn't hold out on the way home. There were storms in Atlanta, so they routed us around the storms. Landed a little early, but had to sit out on a side -runway for about 15 min. since our gate was occupied. Could see 15+ planes lined up for take-off. Finally got to the gate and the next hurdle was the Immigration line. UNREAL! There were so many people there, and sadly, the guy didn't even stamp my passport. They're supposed to, but Walten was not a friendly guy. Next stop was luggage and as I walked up, there was my beautiful, blue, hardside suitcase....come to mama!! Off through Customs and they just passed me over - gracias! Rechecked the bag and back through security and then to find where my gate was.
My flight wasn't even up on the board....nice. So had to go ask at the info desk, along with about 20 + other people. My flight was delayed 2+ hrs., no gran dealio. I can deal with that. Strangely enough, Abby's boyfriend, Mark, was passing through Atlanta as well about the same time, so we chilled out and caught up at my gate. He took off to his flight about 6:30 and mine was supposed to be leaving at 7:20, then 8:05, then they changed our gate back to the original one. To make a LONG story short, my 4:13 flight ended up leaving at 8:40. Was supposed to be home at 5:11 and got home at 9:30. I LOVE Hellanta!!!
Needless to say, climbing into my bed last night was the BEST feeling ever!! I won't miss the uncomfortable bed of the Ramada, that's for sure! I will miss my time with my bar/office/conference buddies every night! Salud to them!! Viva Imperial! :)
Am off to do laundry since I'm leaving again on Thursday for an EF Group Leaders Convention in Sicily & Tunisia.
~steph :)
Sunday, July 13, 2008
Adiós Costa Rica :(
Well, it´s just about time for me to hop on a jet plane outta this country. I am sad to see it go. It´s such a lovely country with many extemes. The extreme green gorgeousness that fills the fields in contrast to the dirty, ugly big city of San José. There are the extremely poor people living in shacks along a polluted river compared to the rich houses that surround our hotel. It´s sad to see these, but I know this isn´t the only country with these problems. I just hope tourism doesn´t destroy the beautiful flora & fauna that makes this country a dreamy place to visit.
I have learned a few things on this trip, such as...
1) to book the hotel shuttle so I don´t have to ride in a crazy taxi in the pouring rain
2) even though it´s summer, wear warm clothes
3) because it´s the rainy season, always carry an umbrella
4) have extra batteries in pocket so I don´t have to dig through my bag to find them & scare off all the butterflies that had landed on me
5) just like in Europe, don´t forget to pack a washcloth
6) gallo pinto is served (and eaten) breakfast, lunch & dinner
7) teachers are worse than kids when on a tour bus
8) I really didn´t need to change my dollars to colones...everyone takes dollars here
9) don´t go to sessions put on by professors....SNOOZERS when all they do is READ their papers!
10) don´t bury yourself in the back of a crazy city bus unless you have an escape rout
11) always have an escape route
12) watch out for the crazy old man with the ox & cart who you have to tip to take a picture - he´s just a dirty old man
13) don´t forget to save $26 for airport tax...yes, I have to PAY to leave this country! (Imagine if America did that....adiós debt...hello more crazies staying!)
Well, must jet...literally!! The airport shuttle is leaving in 15 minutos and then I´ll have to stand in line to pay my taxes!!
**steph :)
I have learned a few things on this trip, such as...
1) to book the hotel shuttle so I don´t have to ride in a crazy taxi in the pouring rain
2) even though it´s summer, wear warm clothes
3) because it´s the rainy season, always carry an umbrella
4) have extra batteries in pocket so I don´t have to dig through my bag to find them & scare off all the butterflies that had landed on me
5) just like in Europe, don´t forget to pack a washcloth
6) gallo pinto is served (and eaten) breakfast, lunch & dinner
7) teachers are worse than kids when on a tour bus
8) I really didn´t need to change my dollars to colones...everyone takes dollars here
9) don´t go to sessions put on by professors....SNOOZERS when all they do is READ their papers!
10) don´t bury yourself in the back of a crazy city bus unless you have an escape rout
11) always have an escape route
12) watch out for the crazy old man with the ox & cart who you have to tip to take a picture - he´s just a dirty old man
13) don´t forget to save $26 for airport tax...yes, I have to PAY to leave this country! (Imagine if America did that....adiós debt...hello more crazies staying!)
Well, must jet...literally!! The airport shuttle is leaving in 15 minutos and then I´ll have to stand in line to pay my taxes!!
**steph :)
Arenal...in the clouds
Today was my last full day in CR...boo hoo! My tour today took us to Sarchi, Zalcero, Arenal & Baldi Hot Spring. Sarchi is where the famous ox carts are hand-crafted. We saw the World´s Largest Ox Cart, shopped and headed to Zalcero, another little city. The drive today was very curvy and you needed your seatbelt. Luckily it didn´t rain on us at all, but that didn´t stop the clouds from getting in my way of seeing Arenal. ugh!! That´s the world´s 4th most active volcano and we saw nada.. :( We did get to relax this afternoon at the Baldi hot spring. There were about 20 pools there that you just wandered in and out of...felt sooooo good on all the achy muscles. And, after another dinner of rice & beans, we headed back to the hotel. Today, I ate rice & beans for all 3 meals....I´m becoming a true Tica!!
*steph :)
*steph :)
Friday, July 11, 2008
San José
So, today was our last day of the conference. Went to 2 1/2 sessions. The last one I ditched out of cuz I went to hear about some vocab stuff and they had 2 presenters that had to share the session and the boring lady went first. Yeah, I tried to be polite & stay and then went ¨Screw it! I´m in Costa Rica and I´m not putting up with this!¨So I left! yeah me!! Overall it was a good conference (location helps) but there were quite a few professors doing presentations where all they did was sit & read their papers...ugh! Give me something that I can take back & use in my classroom in a month - that´s what us real teachers want!
Today was my brave adventure to San José. Had heard real sketchy stories about SJ - especially taking the bus back. But I went in a group of 7 and then we split up after that. Saw the Cathedral, Teatro Nacional, Parque Central and the gift shop of the Museo de Oro (gold museum). SJ is a huge, ugly, dirty city - not what you would expect when you like of CR. I´m actually glad we weren´t stay there - uck! Being out in the burbs is MUCH better!! I felt semi-safe walking around, but then again I had 2 guys with me - makes a difference. Had death-grip on my bag the entire time, but just walked around like I knew what I was doing - confidence makes a big difference.
The real highlight of SJ was that the Cows on Parade were in town!!! WOO HOO!!! You know, those statues of cows decorated & designed by local artists...yep, in SJ for the summer! Qué coincedencia!! Got oodles of pics of them and was in the middle of taking others when, big surprise, it started raining. So everyone in the Parque scrambled up to the bandshell and just stood there to wait it out. Couple of shady characters there...so was no big surprise that the cops just happened to wander over and stand by us.
Took the bus back...that was interesting. We stupidly went to the back...and quickly realized we had no escape route as the bus filled to capacity & had standing room only and us gringos with all our purchases and dinero were surrounded by about 15 guys....It all turned out fine - we got back right at dusk. Any later would have worried me more!
But, that´s San José. Tomorrow I´m off for my last excursion. We´re going the Arenal Volcano, Sarchi and Baldi Hot Springs!! Am very excited, but sad to leave. Has really opened my eyes to this part of the world and makes me want to bring kids to do a service-learning project...might not be a bad idea...I´ve made some connections here to make that happen!! :)
Gotta jet - Nos vemos **steph :)
Today was my brave adventure to San José. Had heard real sketchy stories about SJ - especially taking the bus back. But I went in a group of 7 and then we split up after that. Saw the Cathedral, Teatro Nacional, Parque Central and the gift shop of the Museo de Oro (gold museum). SJ is a huge, ugly, dirty city - not what you would expect when you like of CR. I´m actually glad we weren´t stay there - uck! Being out in the burbs is MUCH better!! I felt semi-safe walking around, but then again I had 2 guys with me - makes a difference. Had death-grip on my bag the entire time, but just walked around like I knew what I was doing - confidence makes a big difference.
The real highlight of SJ was that the Cows on Parade were in town!!! WOO HOO!!! You know, those statues of cows decorated & designed by local artists...yep, in SJ for the summer! Qué coincedencia!! Got oodles of pics of them and was in the middle of taking others when, big surprise, it started raining. So everyone in the Parque scrambled up to the bandshell and just stood there to wait it out. Couple of shady characters there...so was no big surprise that the cops just happened to wander over and stand by us.
Took the bus back...that was interesting. We stupidly went to the back...and quickly realized we had no escape route as the bus filled to capacity & had standing room only and us gringos with all our purchases and dinero were surrounded by about 15 guys....It all turned out fine - we got back right at dusk. Any later would have worried me more!
But, that´s San José. Tomorrow I´m off for my last excursion. We´re going the Arenal Volcano, Sarchi and Baldi Hot Springs!! Am very excited, but sad to leave. Has really opened my eyes to this part of the world and makes me want to bring kids to do a service-learning project...might not be a bad idea...I´ve made some connections here to make that happen!! :)
Gotta jet - Nos vemos **steph :)
Travel-Free Thursday
So, yesterday was such an amazing day....gotta have a let down after that. Today was conference day....tolerable. Keynote speaker was a tad snoozy during our luncheon, but I have gotten some new ideas and just hope I have the time (or will make the time) to implement some of them. Have met some great people at the conference from all parts of the country/world. That´s sometimes the best part - the networking and the meeting of new people and the collaborating and sharing of ideas. You know me, Srta Social Butterfly, it´s what I do...and I love it!
A funny.... I guess...maybe more weird....at the airport, there´s a cardboard man standing there holding a sign that says it´s illegal to do that and ¨We will drive you to jail.¨ I was quite taken aback with that on Monday... wondering what the heck is up with that... Then, we get to our hotel, and in our welcome packet there´s a letter that says´"No social gatherings are to take place in your room." I´m thinking to myself, am I in Thailand?!?! Apparently CR has had an issue of foreigners coming into their country and having sex with minors...I guess that´s one way to tell everyone!
The weather has been grand...during the morning hours only! It´s rained every afternoon since I´ve been here. Today it rained the least, but Wednesday...wow! We couldn´t hear our presenter giving her speech it was SO loud! But, just like Ireland, you gotta have the rain to make it all green, right?!?!
The conference is over tomorrow at noon and then I´m going to head to Center City for a while...in the light. Have heard sketchy things, but the Cows on Parade are there and a girl´s gotta go see `em. :)
Hasta ** steph :)
A funny.... I guess...maybe more weird....at the airport, there´s a cardboard man standing there holding a sign that says it´s illegal to do that and ¨We will drive you to jail.¨ I was quite taken aback with that on Monday... wondering what the heck is up with that... Then, we get to our hotel, and in our welcome packet there´s a letter that says´"No social gatherings are to take place in your room." I´m thinking to myself, am I in Thailand?!?! Apparently CR has had an issue of foreigners coming into their country and having sex with minors...I guess that´s one way to tell everyone!
The weather has been grand...during the morning hours only! It´s rained every afternoon since I´ve been here. Today it rained the least, but Wednesday...wow! We couldn´t hear our presenter giving her speech it was SO loud! But, just like Ireland, you gotta have the rain to make it all green, right?!?!
The conference is over tomorrow at noon and then I´m going to head to Center City for a while...in the light. Have heard sketchy things, but the Cows on Parade are there and a girl´s gotta go see `em. :)
Hasta ** steph :)
Wednesday, July 9, 2008
Poás & La Paz Waterfall Gardens
Well, today had to be the best day so far!!!
Up bright & early to catch a 6:30 bus to Poás Volcano National Park and La Paz Waterfall Gardens.
It´s amazing what a difference it is getting out of the city and into the nature of CR. Today was the day where, if you imagine what CR is like in your brain, that´s what I saw today. :)
We stopped at a coffee plantation and got to see all the plants and sample the coffee. Did you know that CR exports their coffee to Germany to have them turn into decaf and then ship it back!?!? It´s apparently cheaper to do it that way than to build a factory here....crazy....
Up to the Poás Volcano we went and after a short hike I was at a volcano....amazing! We apparently lucked out on the weather cuz we could see the crater, the smoke coming out of it and could even see the cone of the Arenal Volcano - the 4th most active volcano in the world (which I´m going to see on Saturday!!). The Volcano was cool - hard to describe but since I´ve never see a volcano before, it was breathtaking.
On our way to La Paz, we saw these people on the side of the road taking pics, so Fernando stopped the bus and we all got to be Japanese tourists for a few segundos cuz there was a SLOTH up in the tree moving around!! So, we all scrambled to the left side of the bus and snapped away!! WOW!!!
La Paz Waterfall Gardens was our last stop - even the name sounds heavenly, doesn´t it?!?! We grabbed walking sticks and headed down to the butterfly house where thousands of butterflies are flying and dive-bombing everywhere....wow! They were sure attracted to my yellow shirt! Saw some monkeys and then, before lunch, stopped at the hummingbird gardens. Those things are cool!! After our typical CR meal (lots of rice & beans) we headed toward the Waterfalls. These were impressive! We got to see 2 of them. Had to hike through the extremely green jungle to get there and we were quite close for our pics (cameras got wet!!) Hiked through some more jungle to find the 2nd one...so impressive...and huge!! We don´t have things like that in Iowa, so this country girl was quite overwhelmed!! Just as we were hiking out, the clouds rolled in... and so did the rain. We high-tailed it back to the hotel, all amazed at our day. It was one of the best days...so far!!
(oh, I did attend a few sessions today.... they were pretty good!!)
This country never ceases to amaze me! I´d love to just wander around the jungles and see all the flora & fauna this place has to offer. Apparently, San José is not the place to be - quite shady...but we´re going to attempt that mañana..but just for a few hours. All the people I´ve talked to that have gone have had crazy stories to share. But, once you´re out of the Central Valley and up into the mountains & volcanos....it´s amazing! The gorgeous green is everywhere...sigh....
Well, best go charge my batteries and get some shut eye!!
Hasta **steph :)
Up bright & early to catch a 6:30 bus to Poás Volcano National Park and La Paz Waterfall Gardens.
It´s amazing what a difference it is getting out of the city and into the nature of CR. Today was the day where, if you imagine what CR is like in your brain, that´s what I saw today. :)
We stopped at a coffee plantation and got to see all the plants and sample the coffee. Did you know that CR exports their coffee to Germany to have them turn into decaf and then ship it back!?!? It´s apparently cheaper to do it that way than to build a factory here....crazy....
Up to the Poás Volcano we went and after a short hike I was at a volcano....amazing! We apparently lucked out on the weather cuz we could see the crater, the smoke coming out of it and could even see the cone of the Arenal Volcano - the 4th most active volcano in the world (which I´m going to see on Saturday!!). The Volcano was cool - hard to describe but since I´ve never see a volcano before, it was breathtaking.
On our way to La Paz, we saw these people on the side of the road taking pics, so Fernando stopped the bus and we all got to be Japanese tourists for a few segundos cuz there was a SLOTH up in the tree moving around!! So, we all scrambled to the left side of the bus and snapped away!! WOW!!!
La Paz Waterfall Gardens was our last stop - even the name sounds heavenly, doesn´t it?!?! We grabbed walking sticks and headed down to the butterfly house where thousands of butterflies are flying and dive-bombing everywhere....wow! They were sure attracted to my yellow shirt! Saw some monkeys and then, before lunch, stopped at the hummingbird gardens. Those things are cool!! After our typical CR meal (lots of rice & beans) we headed toward the Waterfalls. These were impressive! We got to see 2 of them. Had to hike through the extremely green jungle to get there and we were quite close for our pics (cameras got wet!!) Hiked through some more jungle to find the 2nd one...so impressive...and huge!! We don´t have things like that in Iowa, so this country girl was quite overwhelmed!! Just as we were hiking out, the clouds rolled in... and so did the rain. We high-tailed it back to the hotel, all amazed at our day. It was one of the best days...so far!!
(oh, I did attend a few sessions today.... they were pretty good!!)
This country never ceases to amaze me! I´d love to just wander around the jungles and see all the flora & fauna this place has to offer. Apparently, San José is not the place to be - quite shady...but we´re going to attempt that mañana..but just for a few hours. All the people I´ve talked to that have gone have had crazy stories to share. But, once you´re out of the Central Valley and up into the mountains & volcanos....it´s amazing! The gorgeous green is everywhere...sigh....
Well, best go charge my batteries and get some shut eye!!
Hasta **steph :)
Tuesday, July 8, 2008
And the fun begins....
So, today is Day 1 of the conference. Sessions went from 8-5. Am a tad tired of sitting all day. The best part of one of the sessions was the view from the room (hence the pic) - high up on the 5th floor over looking the pool area with an awesome view of the mountains & all the greenery of CR. Am WAY excited to get out & explore! I have met up with some colegas that I met in Salt Lake City in Feb at that conference, so that´s been fun to run into "old" friends. Mainly there´s a bunch of Spanish teachers running around, wearing this crazy neck pouches and studying the conference programs trying to decide which session will be worth their time. Had some good ones today... had some real snoozers today.... but that happens at all conferences. The vendors haven´t been too impressive - no one to really schmooze and get some free stuff out of (you know me - that´s what I do at conferences....).
The weather has ebbed & flowed as well. Last night it cooled off & was absolutely gorgeous - great sleeping weather. Woke up to sun & blue skies....and then it started raining this afternoon. Guess it´s their rainy season here - goes from May-Nov...nice...it can rain all it wants while I´m in sessions, but not when I´m out exploring the flora & fauna of this amazing country!!
Tomorrow looks to be a great day! Am off to the Poas Volcano & La Paz waterfall gardens! Just sounds heavenly, doesn´t it!?!?! :) Better get my batteries charges and ready to go!!
Well, must jet - I think there´s a cerveza or a mojito calling my name after sitting on my culo all day listening to presenters!!
Ciao ciao *** steph :)
The weather has ebbed & flowed as well. Last night it cooled off & was absolutely gorgeous - great sleeping weather. Woke up to sun & blue skies....and then it started raining this afternoon. Guess it´s their rainy season here - goes from May-Nov...nice...it can rain all it wants while I´m in sessions, but not when I´m out exploring the flora & fauna of this amazing country!!
Tomorrow looks to be a great day! Am off to the Poas Volcano & La Paz waterfall gardens! Just sounds heavenly, doesn´t it!?!?! :) Better get my batteries charges and ready to go!!
Well, must jet - I think there´s a cerveza or a mojito calling my name after sitting on my culo all day listening to presenters!!
Ciao ciao *** steph :)
Monday, July 7, 2008
Made it...whew!!
Well, I made it - woo hoo!! All the flights went well - had a little rough landing in San Jose, but the flight over the Caymen Islands was well worth it!! The water was about 3 different shades of blue - and that´s what I could see from the plane!! Breathtaking!
So, we land in CR - my luggage comes right off and I head to the ATM. Well, one should really research what the exchange rate is before coming to a country...so I head to the ATM and it tells me I can take out money is amounts of 1000. Not really having a clue, I take out 2000. Yep, that´s about $4. When I saw my balance was 500,000+, I felt like a millionaire, especially after being in Spain with that darn Euro!!
So, I guess I´d better get some more money out to survive the week!! :)
Once we went to catch the shuttle, the heavens opened up and we had ourselves a HUGE downpour!! Ugh!! We ended up in a taxi, not really knowing if he was going to take us to the hotel or leave us out in the middle of nowhere for dead. But it was $5 a piece (and I could pay in dollars!) and we arrived safe & sound - still in the downpour. It´s a quaint little hotel/resort. I basically dumped my stuff and started exploring - the downpour has stopped. The flora & fauna is amazing - and I´m still at the hotel. Gonna wander around a bit - take pics and see what exploring I can do.
Everyone is super nice & friendly here & not the nice-friendly-looking for a tip type. That´s a switch!
Will post later as internet is free for guests! WOO HOO!!
**steph
p.s. am still getting used to the keyboard - it´s like the european ones - things are moved and it´s frustrating, but i´ll deal...carpe diem!! :)
So, we land in CR - my luggage comes right off and I head to the ATM. Well, one should really research what the exchange rate is before coming to a country...so I head to the ATM and it tells me I can take out money is amounts of 1000. Not really having a clue, I take out 2000. Yep, that´s about $4. When I saw my balance was 500,000+, I felt like a millionaire, especially after being in Spain with that darn Euro!!
So, I guess I´d better get some more money out to survive the week!! :)
Once we went to catch the shuttle, the heavens opened up and we had ourselves a HUGE downpour!! Ugh!! We ended up in a taxi, not really knowing if he was going to take us to the hotel or leave us out in the middle of nowhere for dead. But it was $5 a piece (and I could pay in dollars!) and we arrived safe & sound - still in the downpour. It´s a quaint little hotel/resort. I basically dumped my stuff and started exploring - the downpour has stopped. The flora & fauna is amazing - and I´m still at the hotel. Gonna wander around a bit - take pics and see what exploring I can do.
Everyone is super nice & friendly here & not the nice-friendly-looking for a tip type. That´s a switch!
Will post later as internet is free for guests! WOO HOO!!
**steph
p.s. am still getting used to the keyboard - it´s like the european ones - things are moved and it´s frustrating, but i´ll deal...carpe diem!! :)
Sunday, July 6, 2008
Costa Rica or bust!!
Hola to all!I
Well, I'm off again! Tomorrow morning I'm leaving for Costa Rica for 7 days for the AATSP conference (American Assoc of Teachers of Spanish & Portuguese). I'm quite excited as I've never been to Costa Rica and have heard such amazing stories of the beauty of this country. I get in at noon on Monday and have the rest of the day free. Within the conference are excursions I get to do. Wednesday morning I'm going to Poas Volcano & a Nature Reserve and Saturday, all day, I'm off to the Arenal Volcano & Baldi Hot Springs. Am hoping to do a tour of San Jose and one to Sarchi. So, my bags are packed, my camera & passport are ready to go. Now, we play the waiting game...ugh!!
It's so hard to believe that it's been 3 weeks since I returned from Spain. We had such a magnificent time there that time has just flown. I went with 16 kids & my mom and we were paired up with 3 other groups: Colorado, Missouri & Texas. Big surprise - Texas were trouble again - but, none of that hindered our fun - my kids were awesome - we made so many GOOD memories!! We are family!! We visited the amazing towns of Madrid, Toledo, Granada, Benlmadena, Gibraltar, Sevilla, Cordoba, Segovia & Barcelona.
It's hard to believe it had been 3 yrs since I was last there - it felt just like yesterday. There's just something about that country that never ceases to amaze me & I'm so lucky to have returned so many times and to have always made new memories. What I love about student travel is seeing the same-ol-same-ol through someone else's eyes and sharing this lovely country with others. I always find it's the people you travel with that make the memories & I had some top notch people with me and met some more fantastic people along the way. :)
Well, must finish packing - am semi-stressing and obsessing this time. With other trips, I've known what to expect - unless I'm with kids - then it's expect the unexpected.... But, Costa Rica is completely new for me - so I'm excited for the unknown. I don't have it all planned out. I don't have all the maps downloaded and ready to go - I'm just going to go with it - that's good for me.Everyone needs to be pushed into the unknown every now and again. Live in the moment...As a teacher, you always have to be flexible...same with travel...gotta roll with it....That's what I'm gonna do...roll with it - cuz it's all good!! Carpe Diem!
~steph :)
Well, I'm off again! Tomorrow morning I'm leaving for Costa Rica for 7 days for the AATSP conference (American Assoc of Teachers of Spanish & Portuguese). I'm quite excited as I've never been to Costa Rica and have heard such amazing stories of the beauty of this country. I get in at noon on Monday and have the rest of the day free. Within the conference are excursions I get to do. Wednesday morning I'm going to Poas Volcano & a Nature Reserve and Saturday, all day, I'm off to the Arenal Volcano & Baldi Hot Springs. Am hoping to do a tour of San Jose and one to Sarchi. So, my bags are packed, my camera & passport are ready to go. Now, we play the waiting game...ugh!!
It's so hard to believe that it's been 3 weeks since I returned from Spain. We had such a magnificent time there that time has just flown. I went with 16 kids & my mom and we were paired up with 3 other groups: Colorado, Missouri & Texas. Big surprise - Texas were trouble again - but, none of that hindered our fun - my kids were awesome - we made so many GOOD memories!! We are family!! We visited the amazing towns of Madrid, Toledo, Granada, Benlmadena, Gibraltar, Sevilla, Cordoba, Segovia & Barcelona.
It's hard to believe it had been 3 yrs since I was last there - it felt just like yesterday. There's just something about that country that never ceases to amaze me & I'm so lucky to have returned so many times and to have always made new memories. What I love about student travel is seeing the same-ol-same-ol through someone else's eyes and sharing this lovely country with others. I always find it's the people you travel with that make the memories & I had some top notch people with me and met some more fantastic people along the way. :)
Well, must finish packing - am semi-stressing and obsessing this time. With other trips, I've known what to expect - unless I'm with kids - then it's expect the unexpected.... But, Costa Rica is completely new for me - so I'm excited for the unknown. I don't have it all planned out. I don't have all the maps downloaded and ready to go - I'm just going to go with it - that's good for me.Everyone needs to be pushed into the unknown every now and again. Live in the moment...As a teacher, you always have to be flexible...same with travel...gotta roll with it....That's what I'm gonna do...roll with it - cuz it's all good!! Carpe Diem!
~steph :)
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