Cartago in 1984

Basilica in Cartago with lawn

I first set foot in Costa Rica in 1984. Back then, Cartago was very different than it is now. Join me as I explore what’s changed and also what has stayed exactly the same from Cartago in 1984.

My Best Summer Memories

author on Cadillac Mountain, Bar Harbor

If there’s any time that can make you feel nostalgic, it’s long, hot summer days. I fondly remember so many good times growing up and visiting coastal Maine. Here are a few more of my summer memories from the 70s and 80s.

Ode to Axion Dish Paste

Display of Axion Dish Paste in Costa Rica

  This post contains an affiliate link that I may earn a small commission on at no additional cost to you. I only recommend products I have used myself and enjoy.   I’ve caught more flak for my love of Axion dish paste more than any other Costa Rican product. So, I’m going to put … Read more

La Basilica de Nuestra Señora de Los Angeles

La Basílica de Nuestra Señora de Los Ángeles is easily the most recognizable building in Cartago, Costa Rica. Just do an internet search on Cartago, Costa Rica, and images of the Basilica are the first thing to appear. The Basilica draws hundreds of tourists every year, each impressed with the magnitude and architecture at this … Read more

Myth #1—Costa Rica Only Sells Imperial Beer

I think I read somewhere that Costa Rica only sells Imperial beer. This is news to me. I thought they sold Bavaria, too. Oh, say.  Isn’t Pilsen crafted in Costa Rica, too? Three beers is better than one. I can see where this could be a problem. Ticos must get really bored with only three … Read more

Anthony Bourdain

Handwritten lists of Anthony Bourdain's Final Episodes

I have a notebook. In that notebook, I jot down blog post ideas as they occur to me. I have a growing list of subjects I want to talk about. On that list was Anthony Bourdain. As this blog gained momentum, and built up material I hoped to eventually write a post about Anthony Bourdain … Read more