Where in the world is MapmakerJenny?
SAN JOSE - DALLAS - OKC
Saturday, February 26, 2011
Friday, February 25, 2011
DAY 9
Where in the world is MapmakerJenny?
ALAJUELA
Paos Volcano National Park
The summit area of Poas Volcano is covered with ash and has little vegetation. Explosions still occur regularly, and the activity like the steam, is often caused by the interaction of the lava with the water. While the water in the lake may seem inviting, it is extremely acidic and can be as hot as 185 degrees Fahrenheit, so it is definitely not for swimming. There is mild activity occurring frequently, and 39 eruptions have been recorded since 1828. In 1989, high gaseous emissions caused the part to shut down temporarily, but usually the eruptions are of steam and muddy water, giving Poas the distinction of being the world"s biggest geyser. There is an animal that is unique as well. It is the Poas yellow-green squirrel, and it is only found here in the part. Aside from this 79 species of birds live here, like hummingbirds and the resplendent Quetzal
La Paz Waterfall Gardens
ALAJUELA
Paos Volcano National Park
The summit area of Poas Volcano is covered with ash and has little vegetation. Explosions still occur regularly, and the activity like the steam, is often caused by the interaction of the lava with the water. While the water in the lake may seem inviting, it is extremely acidic and can be as hot as 185 degrees Fahrenheit, so it is definitely not for swimming. There is mild activity occurring frequently, and 39 eruptions have been recorded since 1828. In 1989, high gaseous emissions caused the part to shut down temporarily, but usually the eruptions are of steam and muddy water, giving Poas the distinction of being the world"s biggest geyser. There is an animal that is unique as well. It is the Poas yellow-green squirrel, and it is only found here in the part. Aside from this 79 species of birds live here, like hummingbirds and the resplendent Quetzal
La Paz Waterfall Gardens
La Paz Waterfall Gardens Nature Park is a privately owned and managed ecological attraction that opened in the fall of 2000. The construction of the Hiking Trails, Butterfly Observatory and Reception began in July of 1998 and was mostly complete by the fall of 2000. Since opening we have continually added new and interesting exhibits to enhance the quality of your visit. Please Enjoy.
Our Mission Statement is to preserve and protect the natural environment of the area for the education, entertainment, and enjoyment of all ages of people. Our strategy combines environmentally conscious design with maximum educational impact to the visitor.
The Park comprises 70 acres (28 hectares) of land including approximately 40 acres of cloud and rainforest and 30 acres (12 hectares) of pastureland cut by a previous owner. The forest area is currently protected under Private Wildlife Refuge Status and we are in the process of reforesting the unoccupied pastureland. We are also an active member of the Costa Rican Network of Private Nature Reserves, the Green Stamp Program, the Blue Flag Program and the Environmental Services Payment Program.
Coffee Tasting
•Doka offers 7 different export types; all same quality only difference is roasting times
•Contrary to popular belief the lighter the roast the more caffeine remains in the bean; Dark roasts have less caffeine
•One cup of coffee has an average of 1.5% caffeine; Black tea has 2%; Cocoa 4%; Coca cola 5%
•90% of Doka coffee is exported and sold to Starbucks (unroasted)
•10% remains in Costa Rica
•Ticos drink the inferior harvested beans but improve the flavor by adding caramelized sugar (torrefaccion) in the roasting process
•Most other brands of coffee are actually mixes of beans from various plantations which have different soils and climates and therefore produces variable quality
Thursday, February 24, 2011
DAY 8
Where in the world is MapmakerJenny?
The Sky Cam Tour
The slow paced Sky Tram gondolas will provide a smooth ride through the rain forest, with endless views along the way, so you can appreciate the natural beauty that surrounds you on your way to the top. Once at the at the observation deck, you will be able to enjoy the most magnificent views of the volcano&s south face for as long as you desire.
From the there, you will have two options for returning to the base. The first option is to ride back down the same way you came up, on the Sky Tram. On the ride you will be able to notice how the vegetation varies as the altitude changes once again.
The opther and more exciting options is that you can zip your way to the bottom along the fast moving canopy tour zip lines, the best option for those seeking a rush of adrenaline.
ARENAL
The Hanging Bridges
The hanging bridge circuit includes both bridges and trails. The bridges overlook a dense canopy – allowing visitors to peer directly into the upper reaches of the forest – and have fantastic views of the Arenal Volcano in the background. Trails connect the bridges and run through primary rainforest. Along these, visitors can get a closer look at the insects, reptiles, birds, flowers, plants and trees that call this forest home. Walking at a slow pace, the complete circuit will take most people about two hours to complete.The Sky Cam Tour
The slow paced Sky Tram gondolas will provide a smooth ride through the rain forest, with endless views along the way, so you can appreciate the natural beauty that surrounds you on your way to the top. Once at the at the observation deck, you will be able to enjoy the most magnificent views of the volcano&s south face for as long as you desire.
From the there, you will have two options for returning to the base. The first option is to ride back down the same way you came up, on the Sky Tram. On the ride you will be able to notice how the vegetation varies as the altitude changes once again.
The opther and more exciting options is that you can zip your way to the bottom along the fast moving canopy tour zip lines, the best option for those seeking a rush of adrenaline.
Wednesday, February 23, 2011
DAY 7
Where in the world is MapmakerJenny?
ARENAL
Tabacon
There are several mineral baths in the Arenal area, but Tabacon is the only one that is not pumped to create pools. Tabacon has a mineral river heated by the volcano to nearly 100 degrees. The river has been divided into a number of separate pools and waterfalls where guests can wander and soak in beautifully landscaped hot pools.
La Fortune Waterfall
Tuesday, February 22, 2011
DAY 6
Where in the world is MapmakerJenny?
ARENAL
Positioned within Costa Rica’s fertile northern lowlands, the Arenal Volcano is an unavoidable presence while traveling within this part of the country. It is tall, loud and flashy, and – as one of the world’s ten most active volcanoes – it emits lava and enormous ash columns on a regular basis. Arenal’s perfectly symmetrical shape makes it a sightseer’s dream, while its abundance of outdoor activities makes it an easy place to check things off your “must-do in Costa Rica” list.
As Arenal's ultimate travel resource, this site is dedicated to providing you with information about the Arenal Volcano and the surrounding area. It’s our hope that with the tools and services we offer, you’ll be able to plan a fun and memorable adventure to Costa Rica.
Hibiscus Maze (Madman's Maze)Madman’s Maze a 80’ x 80’ hibiscus maze with enough twists and turns to make a sane person crazy.
Monday, February 21, 2011
DAY 5
Where in the world is MapmakerJenny?
MANUEL ANTONIO -
El Avion Restaurant
Set on the edge of Manuel Antonio's hillside with a great view of the ocean and surrounding forests, this restaurant is actually housed under some permanent tents and the starboard wing of a retired army transport plane, hence the name El Avión, which means "the Plane." This specific plane was actually shot down by the Sandinista army, leading to a scandal that uncovered illegal CIA supply missions to the Contra rebels in Nicaragua. Today you can enjoy a wide range of seafood and steaks as you take in the unique surroundings and glow of history. Inside the fuselage you'll also find a small bar.
Sunday, February 20, 2011
DAY 4
Where in the world is MapmakerJenny?
MANUEL ANTONIO
Manuel Antonio contains a charming combination of rain forest, beaches and coral reefs. This beaches are the most beautiful in the country, lined with lush forest, and the snorkeling is excellent too. The forest is home for sloths, iguanas, the rare and adorable squirrel monkeys and millions of colorful little crabs. And the trail that winds around Punta Catedral affords some spectacular views. The park is easy to reach, south of the town of Quepos, and is near a good selection of hotels and restaurants.
Boca Bar Mogotes
Our new 80,000 gal adult pool also features a whirlpool spa, waterwall-falls, swim-up bar, and spectacular romantic ocean and jungle vistas. It has two 42 inches flat TVs (for contact with the real world – news-sports), and a deliciously light food menu. We develped Boca Bar Mogotes to accomodate the needs of our adult guests – yet another exotic get-a-away-from-it-all Si Como No experience. For guests over 18.
Si Como NoSi Como No Resort Spa & Wildlife Refuge is a central-Pacific coast resort in the jungle-covered hills just above Manuel Antonio National Park. It’s barefoot luxury with a pura vida vibe, perfect for families and couples who love the beach, tropical adventures, spa, pools, superb dinning and four-star accommodations.
This award-winning eco-design nature resort & spa offers its guest its own signature version of “barefoot luxury.” Panoramic views are yours to enjoy from beautiful balconies looking down from the most idyllic hilltop in the area.
Enjoy nearby beaches, Manuel Antonio National Park and the hotel’s private Wildlife Refuge and Butterfly Atrium, adjacent to the property. Renown for warm, friendly service, guests can choose from two excellent restaurants, guided nature and adventure tours plus shopping, fabulous nightlife and our own private cinema. And for Costa Rica weddings and honeymoons, this is where life memories are made, one tropical sunset at a time.
Saturday, February 19, 2011
DAY 3
Where in the world is MapmakerJenny?
ALAJUELA
Zoo Ave
Dozens of scarlet macaws, reclusive owls, majestic raptors, several different species of toucans, and a host of brilliantly colored birds from Costa Rica and around the world make this one exciting place to visit. In total, over 115 species of birds are on display, including some 80 species found in Costa Rica. Bird-watching enthusiasts will be able to get a closer look at birds they might have seen in the wild. There are also large iguana, deer, tapir, ocelot, puma, and monkey exhibits -- and look out for the 3.6m (12-ft.) crocodile. Zoo Ave. houses only injured, donated, or confiscated animals. It takes about 2 hours to walk the paths and visit all the exhibits here.
The Butterfly Farm
The Butterfly Farm is situated in the central valley town of La Guácima de Alajuela. La Guácima is about a 25 minute drive west of San José (from La Sabana park). The town is also located about 25 minutes southwest of Alajuela and the Juan Santamaría International Airport. The Butterfly Farm is located 500 meters south, 100 meters east, of the main entrance to Los Reyes Country Club. The farm's entrance is on the left hand side.
For over 20 years, since 1990, The Butterfly Farm has been offering in-depth 2-hour guided tours to the public. Depending on the weather, what's going on in the garden and the guide, every tour is unique and provides a broad perspective on butterflies, Nature and mankind's fascination wtih these extraordinary insects.
In 2009 the farm introduced the Gallery for Human Transformation. Drawing upon the understandings of the ancient Greeks and traditional cultures, the gallery synthysizes the symbolic and mythological meanings of the butterfly and, metaphorically, suggests man's need to complete his own metamorphosis.
ALAJUELA
Zoo Ave
Dozens of scarlet macaws, reclusive owls, majestic raptors, several different species of toucans, and a host of brilliantly colored birds from Costa Rica and around the world make this one exciting place to visit. In total, over 115 species of birds are on display, including some 80 species found in Costa Rica. Bird-watching enthusiasts will be able to get a closer look at birds they might have seen in the wild. There are also large iguana, deer, tapir, ocelot, puma, and monkey exhibits -- and look out for the 3.6m (12-ft.) crocodile. Zoo Ave. houses only injured, donated, or confiscated animals. It takes about 2 hours to walk the paths and visit all the exhibits here.
The Butterfly Farm
The Butterfly Farm is situated in the central valley town of La Guácima de Alajuela. La Guácima is about a 25 minute drive west of San José (from La Sabana park). The town is also located about 25 minutes southwest of Alajuela and the Juan Santamaría International Airport. The Butterfly Farm is located 500 meters south, 100 meters east, of the main entrance to Los Reyes Country Club. The farm's entrance is on the left hand side.
For over 20 years, since 1990, The Butterfly Farm has been offering in-depth 2-hour guided tours to the public. Depending on the weather, what's going on in the garden and the guide, every tour is unique and provides a broad perspective on butterflies, Nature and mankind's fascination wtih these extraordinary insects.
In 2009 the farm introduced the Gallery for Human Transformation. Drawing upon the understandings of the ancient Greeks and traditional cultures, the gallery synthysizes the symbolic and mythological meanings of the butterfly and, metaphorically, suggests man's need to complete his own metamorphosis.
Friday, February 18, 2011
DAY 2
Where in the World is Mapmaker Jenny?
SAN JOSE - ALAJUELA, COSTA RICA
One of the oldest democracies in the Americas, Costa Rica is also considered one of the most biologically diverse countries on earth. It covers only .03% of the world's surface (roughly the size of West Virginia) and yet has an astonishing 5% of the world's life forms. With a population of approximately three million people, Costa Rica is a country that enjoys immense diversity of climates and environmental regions.
Costa Rica, or "rich coast" in English, is bordered by Nicaragua to the north and Panama to the southeast. It is endowed with a virtual treasure trove of palm-fringed Caribbean beaches, steaming volcanoes, cascading waterfalls, forested mountains, dense rain forests, dramatic cloud forests, and rustic countryside. Its people pride themselves on peace and friendliness while the rich biodiversity lends opportunities for snorkeling, hiking, kayaking, and other outdoor activities.
Thursday, February 17, 2011
DAY 1
Where in the world is Mapmaker Jenny?
Today I flew from Oklahoma City, OK to Dallas, TX.
The flight was just the way I like it... Uneventful.
Carol met me at the airport and we began the trip as we be both imagined, with some good ole Tex Mex dining.
Afterwards, we spent the evening going over what we both hope to get out of this photography tour.
As usual it involved lots of laughing.
Monday, February 14, 2011
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