It is the “rainy season” in Central America. This usually runs from April to October. It never gets cold. However, during this time, the rains can persist from 10 minute showers to maybe 10 weeks of “persistent precipitation”.
Again, we were made welcome, this time in the recently developed terminal of Puntarenas, Costa Rica. Having a hint of rail travel, I chose the Costa Rica Rail and River Ride, as very briefly described and illustrated yesterday. Firstly, (not in the order described in the brochure) we travelled by coach for over an hour, inland, past villages and other pockets of civilisation to the Tarcoles River for a 50 minute meander on a modern purpose built flat bottom motor boat. (Again see previous blog). The cruise brochure hinted strongly at, but went out of its way, not to guarantee, plenteous sightings of cormorants, pelicans, and frigates. A rare monkey appeared high in a tree, but was silhouetted against a bright sky and was hardly discernable. The brochure also urged guests to look out for “huge iguanas and lizards as well as herons, egrets and stalks in search of a bite to eat on the riverbanks.” Our knowledgeable and highly experienced tour guide warned us that much of the wildlife would be hard to discern using their camouflage capabilities as a defence against unwanted attention. With a laser torch, she pointed out seven tiny bats clinging to a tree branch, like black inverted triangles. And I saw a blue heron perched on a branch. It was explained that not being fully developed, the grey plumage would eventually become blue…what I had spotted was a young “blue heron.” No, as elsewhere on this holiday, wildlife was not in the great abundance the brochure suggested. And, being the rainy season, while on the river, the heavens opened to an almighty great crash of thunder. We returned to the coach and continued to the “mandatory” souvenir shop. There was a huge eclectic choice of souvenirs crafted, seemingly, by local artisans, many of which were quite beautiful and worthy of bringing home. I acquired some framed butterflies. As a child, I would have been thrilled to own these. Also, some other bits as well as postcards which, at last, I have written and sent.We continued further to where we would board a train over part of what little remains of Costa Rica’ s rail system.
From what I gather, the “Pacific Railroad Train” consists of one diesel shunt locomotive and two ancient but tourist friendly, recently refurbished, and attractively liveried passenger vehicles, plus a caboose style car for the provision of light refreshments and drinks, all of which were served at our seat. We trundled at what seemed like just above walking pace past tiny villages of desperately poor people in make-shift accommodation. Children lined the tracks gleefully shouting “5 dollars.” I did “do some modest business” at the folkloric dance show, also “inevitable” on such trips.
I would not have “missed this excellent trip for the world.” I got to see a lot of a country I couldn’t have seen independently in just one day. It was fascinating and enlightening, and of course, thought provoking. And, yet again, I saw and enjoyed endless countryside with its abundance of “nature.”
I was pretty tired last night, and was glad to join members of our table for an earlier more casual and relaxed dinner offered by the Lido on Deck 9. There was major storm outside as lightning flashed in rapid bursts of bright light, still visible despite prominent reflections from the floor to ceiling windows of the Lido. We all gave “show-time” a miss and I enjoyed a decent sleep. Howling gales disturbed my slumber this morning. I found the seas tempestuous, the balcony soaking wet with rain and the sky “Manchester grey.” The wind is no longer howling, but I doubt if the open decks will be populated with sun-worshippers any time soon.
Yesterday’s account was written this morning up to around 10.25hrs. I forgot, completely, that it was Sunday, and was thus far too late for the church service. And, at midday, the ship’s time was advanced by an hour. I only just made it for my usual breakfast of porridge, 100 calories of plain yoghurt and a delicious chilled half grapefruit. Outside, the weather remains wet, grey, misty and uninviting. This may have something to do with a devastating weather system in the southern States of America. I read that a Carnival cruise ship was unable to reach port, but have few details to hand right now.
I continue to be ever so thankful for these incredible travel experiences, but I do wonder how long these ambitious wanderings can continue.
Thanks for reading,
David.
David's Cruise 