A Salute to Past Flights to Costa Rica

You know, it seems like more and more airlines have merged. Going through my old travel papers, I realized I’ve flown on a lot of airlines that don’t even exist anymore! I bet a lot of us have. I’m not even old enough to remember the jet set, but when I started flying, let’s just … Read more

Tamales in Costa Rica

Costa Rican tamale

So, a couple weeks ago I went shopping with my mom. Totally out of nowhere she asks, “When you eat a tamale, what’s the corn husk for?” “Well, Mom,” I explained, “Most Mexican tamales are made using a corn husk, but in Costa Rica they’re made with a banana or plantain leaf, not a corn … Read more

Why Does Costa Rican Fried Food Taste So Good?

Fried fish and french fries take-out

I’m a true believer that almost anything tastes better when you fry it. Notice I didn’t say it’s better for you. It’s just better. In Costa Rica, these fried goodies taste a hundred times better than at home. The fish, the French fries, battered chicken, empanadas–you get the idea. And the smell is unbelievable. I’m … Read more

Culture Shock

Girl sitting on beach thinking

Culture shock—that harsh slap in the face where you realize that not only is your way not the only way, but you’re also going to accept it whether you like it or not. Cuz for right now, there is no “my way or the highway.” You’re in it knee-deep, my friend. I have to admit … Read more