Today, I had to leave my Mama Tica and the homestay in Heredia as we traveled to Monteverde. The homestay in Heredia has started to feel like home. We have had long conversations with Mama Maria and have played many games with her. We will return in a few days, but I will miss these moments with Mama Maria. On the bus ride to Monteverde, we saw two very different ecosystems of Costa Rica: the Pacific coast and beach near Puntarenas and the cloud forest of Monteverde on the continental divide. Some of the scenery was breathtaking.
We stopped during the bus ride because our bus driver noticed something rare. There were tens of howler monkeys up in the trees. It was remarkable to see so many monkeys all in one spot. Most were sleeping, but a few were jumping from tree to tree. We learned that because of the heat and food they eat, they lay on the branches and barely move. As we went further up the mountains, houses were more scattered and stuck out among their surroundings. This made for some stunning scenery. The clouds at the tops of mountains in Monteverde looked very beautiful too. I think about how beautiful Costa Rica is when I reflect on it each day. The variety of green and the stunning mountains stuck out to me.
This experience so far has been so unique. I could not have imagined already having such a strong connection before coming here. I came in hoping for the best but not bringing any expectations. I have felt welcomed by locals and especially by Mama Maria. It brightens my day to greet, communicate, and laugh with people in the community. I have learned a lot about the culture and lifestyle. There are language differences from what I learned in class for years. To say you’re welcome, locals say “con mucho gusto” and not “de nada.” I find other changes and new phrases so interesting. I have had so much fun, and I hope for that to continue.
At Monteverde, we listened to a presentation from Don Ricardo Guindon. Don Ricardo talked to us about the history of Quakers and their settlement in the region. It was unique that his parents were essential to the history. This meant we heard stories from an inside perspective. The Quakers had an impact on the community. The Quakers noticed that good cheese was not in the market. The people saw a chance to profit, and this increased the economy. We also learned that the people worked to implement electricity early on. This allowed them to power the factory and the entire town altogether. I learned a lot today. Now, I am excited about the Cloud Forest Hike tomorrow. The scenery should be breathtaking.