Today, we had a four-hour drive from Heredia to Monteverde, where we will stay for the next two nights. During this four-hour drive, we stopped at this rest stop, which had the most breathtaking views down into the central valley, with the mountains overlooking the distance. Additionally, the grass showed the message in my picture. Throughout our bus ride, it was interesting to see the different neighborhoods and towns throughout Costa Rica. The building architecture altered depending on locations, and the placement of the houses on hillsides or bunched together on top of the mountains was interesting. I found myself holding my phone against the window and videoing amazing views down the hills into the valley while seeing other mountains in the distance to remember this experience. This drive provided the best views so far on this trip. Additionally, the views from the top of Monteverde are eye-opening. 

Throughout the road trip today, I noticed dozens of family-owned or small businesses. These businesses ranged from selling fruits to small automobile shops. People appeared happy to work at their own pace and enjoy their jobs. I understand that tourism and technology are growing industries in Costa Rica; however, today, I strengthened the belief that Costa Rica is a blue-collar country due to its vital agricultural and industrial sectors. 

Foreigners migrating from the United States to Monteverde positively impacted the economy and culture. Our speaker today provided many critical reasons why his ancestors bettered the city of Monteverde overall. Our speaker’s ancestors developed ways to generate and produce electricity in the town. Electricity would be huge in helping run a successful business involving the production and selling of cheese. This good would support the local economy and push it forward. Furthering production and providing power to the mountaintop allowed for more expansion. Additionally, mail pockets became of use, and that led to mailboxes.