Is romance dead...?

I've heard people ask this question before, "Is romance really dead?". Honestly, I don't think so.

Walking around Central Park in Antigua, Guatemala at dust was wonderfully romantic, it's just ashame Stuart isn't here to share it with me.

The park was full of couples kissing and cuddling on benches. All different ages and the lights from the fountain and nearby building made it even more romantic.

Antigua is a beautiful Colonial city. The streets are all cobbled and the low rise buildings are pastel colours.

I've enjoyed today walking around the ruins in the city and just taking in all the beautiful arts and crafts in the shops.

Things are very inexpensive here compared to Costa Rica. I've just bought a lovely necklace for Q35 (about £2.80). I bartered down from Q75.

The main sitting next to me was very impressed. I'm still getting used to having conversations with people without them trying to sell me something. Some people genuinely just want to talk to someone new and I like this.

Tomorrow I am going to hike the local volcano. It's an early 6:00am start but it should be worth it. Then I think I'll try to find the local market in the afternoon.

I'm missing my friends and family a lot but with the wonders of modern technology (and free wifi) I'm in contact with them frequently.

Adrenaline junkie

I feel like an adrenaline junkie. I've always enjoyed the rides at theme parks and things like that but then I've also always been a little reserved and nervous. But this travelling has allowed me to really push myself.

I went white water rafting on a grade 3-4 river on Monday. I was so nervous when we were given the safety briefing but as soon as we were on the river, I couldn't stop screaming and giggling.

It was such a cool experience. I was in the middle and the paddling was fine. I thought I'd get tired but there's lots of times you stop paddling.

We stopped at one place where people were jumping from the top. It looked pretty high but I was more scared as they were jumping so close to the rocks.

We had some lovely fruit and I was walking around on the rocks. I thought I walked on a rock but it turned out to be a cow pat! Now I'm all up for new experiences but I could've done without the new experience of hot cow poop on my shoes thanks!

Back in the river we kept getting stuck. It was fun sometimes as we'd have to jump up and down to try and free us, also sometimes other boats crashed into us.

When we stopped again, another guide ask me if I was enjoying the water, as I was hyped up I was saying 'Yes it's great' and next minute I know, his pulled me into the river. It was funny and very refreshing but very cheeky...

Caroline went to rescue me but she wasn't in the right position so I shouted at her to get into the right position, only I could bark orders on how to be rescued, they whole boat found this amusing.

The next day we went in search of the La Fortuna waterfall. We were walking but didn't realise it closed early ( I know how can a waterfall close but it does!) so we found a swimming hole instead.

There were some Ticos (locals) jumping from the rope. It looked great fun but I couldn't see how feel it was. I asked a local and he dived head first in. I was the first one in our group to get into the water. I didn't use the rope to start with but just jumped from the rock, it was still high!

The Ticos were really friendly helping us with the rope and even helping us climb back up. I think that's something I've really appreciated, people genuinely want to talk or help you without getting anything out of it.

We then left the Arenal/La Fortunate area and headed to Monteverde. This is where the cloud forest is.

The evening we arrived we went for a typical dinner. Rice, beans, plantain, and lots of meat. It was delusions and washed down with Gravio. A very strong shot drink.

After dinner, we were shown the typical Costa Rican dance, Eltorito. It translates to 'Little Bull'.

We had the opportunity to dance it and I danced with Stephen. He is a crazy German teacher. Such a cool guy.

The girl wears a huge skirt and you hold it up (Like the Can Can skirts but not at the front, to the side) and you twirl around and to the side. Then you use the flag to make the bull run to you. It was good fun and it was sweet when some of the group said how graceful I was. I'm sure they wasn't watching me..!

We had an action packed day on Wednesday. First off was the morning hike in the cloud forest. I have to admit, it was my least favourite activity. It seemed like all we saw was trees and a few flowers, I prefer seeing the animals.

Next up was the hanging bridges. I really enjoyed them as you saw the forest from the top of the canopy. We saw a green viper snake straight away. The guide asked if we had any questions and I explained the only question he'll get from me is 'Is it poisonous?'.

Next we saw lots of amazing humming birds. They are such gesticulating colours. In the morning hike, two flew so close to me, the guide said it was my pink jacket they were attracted to.

We also saw a family of owls. I thought this was a axing considering it was during the day.

The highlight of the hanging bridges was climbing inside the strangled tree. Vines grow around a tree until it dies from lack of sunlight then the tree is hollow. It was difficult to climb but I realised everyone else was using there bum to support themselves but I just climbed with my hands, damn I should have been smarter.

Next up was the zip lines. I wasn't sure what to expect. I was super nervous when we did the first line but after a few I got the hang of it and really enjoyed it.

There was a superman zip line where you lay on your front and it feels like your flying through the sky. The views were incredible as you are so high, it was totally amazing!

Next up was the Tarzan swing. I really wanted to say I'd done it. It was a 295foot swing. I went to the end of the platform but I just couldn't do it. I felt bad as loads of people were cheering for me to do it but I was too scared!

And finally (for now) was my awesome surfing lesson. I kicked arse at surfing in Quepos.

It's the first time I've ever surfed and the instructor said how I was the best one in the group.

I could some great waves and Jinah took a great video of me. I'm really proud how well I got on.

I'm really enjoying trying so many new crazy things but I think I've done so much in Costa Rica that the other countries I visit, I probably won't do as much.

That isn't necessarily a bad thing as it may give me more opportunity to truly embrace the culture and scenery.

The rainforest experience

The rainforest experience.

We travelled early Thursday morning to a remote lodge in Sarapiqui rainforest. The lodge is gorgeous situated on a lovely river.

The journey to the lodge was very difficult. It included a two hour boat ride, in the torrential rain. Then a two hour bus ride followed by an hour and half ride on a tractor.

For some reason I was feeling quite down. I'm not sure whether it was the idea of not having access to the Internet and not being in contact with my friends and family, or I was slightly hung over from the night before.

But I just couldn't switch my mind off on the journey. I was very close to crying at one point. But thankfully I just concentrated on how beautiful the scenery was.

When we got to the lodge I was so tired I went straight up to my room and slept. I was woken up for dinner.

After dinner we went on a night hike. It started at 8:00pm and it was supposed to be for two hours. I was a little nervous as the thing we'd see on the night hike are tarantula's, snakes and poison dart frogs.

I ended up at the back, I didn't like this but I had a head lamp on so saw where I was going quite well.

The first thing we saw was a tarantula. It was on the tree and I was literally a foot away from it. I was so proud being so close.

Thankfully we didn't see any snakes but we did see a few poison dart frogs. They are tiny but as the name suggests, they are poisonous. They can't kill you but can make you very ill.

When it was time to head back, I was at the front with the guide. This was really good as he kept pointing things out but every time he did my question was 'Is it poisonous?'

It was good as we were powering through the hike and when we turned around, no one was there. Clearly we were walking to fast, he said I was very healthy for keeping up. I think it was because I was using walking poles and everyone else just had a stick.

I decided to join the morning hike in search of birds. I had to get up at 5:15am. It was super early but a great way to start the day.

We saw some amazing birds like toucans, parrots and turkey vulture's. The hike was quite hard and even though it was so early, it was incredibly hot!

We enjoyed a good breakfast when we got back, I'm conscience of eating so much so I've tried to stay away from the carbs. I had some lovely pineapple, papaya, eggs and a sausage (or something similar).

After breakfast we chilled out a little then went on another hike (yes my third hike) to swim in the river. It was crystal clear and so refreshing.

I was one of the first ones in. The current was quite strong but it was really good. The guide put a rope up so we could climb on the rocks and jump off. Again I was one of the first, I did chicken out and go slightly lower than the others did.

After lunch I went horse riding. There were six from the group and two guides. The horses bridal was very different from back home. The rains were literally a rope around their nose. There's no mouth bit.

I ended up holding the rope in my right hand and held the front of the seat with my left hand.

The horses were very forward going. I can't remember my horses name but I know she was a girl.

She cantered so easily. It was such an incredible feeling. I felt so free roaming a rainforest in Costa Rica. It's the fastest I've ever been. She loved going fast up hill.

After horse riding we had a little cookery lesson and made Tamale. It's rice, carrot, potato and pork. We'll cook them up and eat them tomorrow.

This afternoon has been cool. We've all just sat around chatting, painting our nails and now drinking wine.

The group of people is really good. We've got a few couple and there sweet but it makes me a little sad as I miss Stuart a lot.

I've made friends with Meera, Amy and Caroline. Meera is a really sweet girl who loves to party, she's 19 and has a cool zest for life. Amy and Caroline are both friends and teachers. Amy has a wicked sense of humour, we've had some funny banter. And Caroline is a really nice girl. We've been chatting and it's really nice to easily chat to knew people.

Tonight's dinner is BBQ and then we'll have a bonfire. I saw the guy chopping the wood and decided I wanted a go so I asked if I could help. It was quite difficult but very empowering.

First time experiences

There seems to be so many new things I am experiencing for the first time thanks to travelling.

The first fantastic experience was in Puerto Viejo
on Sunday. It had been raining constantly since Friday but Meera, Jeana and I decides to go for a swim in the Caribbean sea, in the dark.

It was only about 6:30pm but the sun had already set. We found the best sandy spot and went into the sea. It was actually fairly warm considering it was at night and raining.

When we we're in the sea, it then started lightening. It looked incredible over the horizon. It was one of those magical moments given to us by nature.

Walking back to the hotel was good as well. We saw these huge crabs crossing the road. They had very big claws.

That night I dreamed a crab was trying to pinch my bum. It's silly how my mind works.

The next day we went for a guided hike. Our guide Ricky was a really happy Rasta man. Along with the group came a lovely dog. Ricky called her 'black tongue'. Because, yes you guessed it, she has a black tongue.

We came across this huge spider and I backed away initially. Then Ricky picked it up and put it on his face. It looked amazing. He explained how it wasn't poisonous and how nature needs spiders.

Everyone took turns to hold it whilst I was still backed away. Then I decided fine, I'll hold it too. Ricky helped me but this massive spider was now crawling all over my hands and arm.

I'm so proud I held it. I'm hoping when I get home, I won't be ask scares of spiders anymore.

Along the hike we saw some amazing animals. We heard (before seeing) the howler monkeys. They sounded so dangerous but looked pretty cute in the trees.

Then we went searching for a yellow viper snake. Again, I'm a fan of snakes but we saw one and I got a picture. They are poisonous so I kept my distance.

After our hike we visited The Jaguar Rescue Centre. It is a really well run local rescue centre. It was sad but in a way nice, hearing the story of how the centre was named.

When the couple bought their home, a local knew they were Biologist and one day found a baby jaguar in need of medical attention. The local bought the cub to their home but sadly within a few weeks the cub died as she wasn't strong enough.

After then locals bought injuries animals frequently so they decided to build a rescue centre on their grounds and named the centre after their first animal, The Jaguar Rescue Centre.

In the centre., we were lucky enough to go into a monkey enclosure. There were lots of different monkeys from spider monkeys to howler monkeys.

I first of held a lovely baby monkey. I think it was a spider monkey but she for very excited and decided to bite me. Luckily she didn't draw blood so no need to worry about rabies.

After that two big howler monkeys decides to befriend me. One decided to sit on my shoulders and search my head for nits. Hopefully he either didn't find any or give me some. And the other monkey decided I was going to carry him in my arms.

It was an incredible experience. I love monkeys and it was so nice being so close and receiving their affection.

On Tuesday night, I had another amazing opportunity to watch wildlife. We arrived in Tortuguero and we went to the beach at the national park to watch the sea turtles.

It was incredible to see the giant green back turtle walk (or more waddle) from the ocean and make her way up the beach to find a place to nest.

Once she has found her spot to lay her eggs, she goes into a trance like state. It was brilliant as I was able to stand inches away from her and watch her lay her eggs.

Once she has laid her eggs safely, she then uses her back flippers to fill the hole then pat it over to disguise her nesting spot.

But it's very sad to hear that not many of her babies make it safely to the ocean. They are either eaten my birds, caimans or other predators. Or when they try to dig there way out of the hole, they may suffocate.

Another interesting first experience was going to the local disco. It was great dancing with the locals and funniest thing was the random stray dogs coming into the club and sitting in the middle of the dance floor.

Because it started to rain so heavily on the way back, my dress got completely soaked. But the boat ride across the river at 2am with thunder and lightening is something I won't forget in a hurry.
It seems like travelling is an opportunity to experience so many new and wonderful things. I'm really enjoying it but wish I had someone to share some of these with.

The beauty of nature

Yesterday I had an amazing day exploring some of the beautiful beaches of Costa Rica.

There was four of us from the hostel and Manfred (the tour guide and hostel owner) took us on his own tour. First of we were driven by another lady at the hostel to meet the Manfred, now I thought Mum was a bad driver, this women trumps her!!!

When we were on our way, our first stop was Tarcoles river where we saw crocodiles. Manfred said how usually there are only about five or six at the river but we must have counted at least 25. The bridge overlooking the river was busy, lots of tourist and a group of Americans. All of a sudden they were screaming and cue OMG!!

Apparently a poor little monkey was trying to cross the river and he fell and the crocodiles ate him. I missed it which I´m glad of but was wondering what it would have been like if one of the people fell off the bridge.... Just wondering...

A bird was walking close to the water and I had my camera at the ready just in case they felt hungry again but Manfred said they don´t normally touch the birds, much to my disappointment.

The change in weather from San Jose to over the Pacific side was incredible. San Jose is far less humid and lower temperature, whereas it was so hot and sticky over the other side. I´m not complaining as it was lovely to have the heat and luckily I was sitting in the front so I wasn´t squashed in the back, I´m not actually sure how I managed that considering I am the smallest one but just goes to show whoever gets there first I suppose (small victories...!)

We then headed to the beautiful beach of Punta Leona which means Lioness in Spanish. The road down to the beach was a small dirt track, lots of pot holes but it was nice as it clearly wasn´t the typical tour guide beach.

When we arrived we had to walk through a little forest and on some beams over a river to get to the beach. It´s actually a beach for a hotel but they haven´t made it completely exclusive yet. We found a nice shady spot under some trees and headed straight for the water.

The water was an odd sandy colour but it was still fairly clear. It was so warm. It reminded me a little of Cuba, like walking into a bath.

I went back to get my camera and to my surprise there was a naughty raccoon trying to get inside our bags. I thought it was really cute but also mindful of the fact it was a wild animal, I did what all tourist do... I got my camera out and started snapping.

When I decided I had enough pictures, I figured I better tell someone that our bags are getting raided. Manfred told me to shoe him away... I started to throw stones near him (clearly not at him, that would just be mean) and all the little bugger did was look at the stone then look at me, it was quite amusing actually. A local decided to come over and help get him away so that was good.

We then decided to walk around to the other side to the other beach. The walk was a little difficult in flip flops as lots of stones to walk over and climbing but as soon as I saw the other beach, it was well worth it. It was a little busier than the other (that must be where the tour groups normally go) but it was still wonderful.

I made a few little messages in the sand, one for Stu and another was "Costa Rica 2012". But unfortunately when I got back to the hostel and tried to upload all my pictures, I managed to corrupt my memory card. I´m gutted as I had some great pictures but thankful it was only one week in and not towards the end of my trip.

After the beach we headed off to Jaco to get some lunch. Manfred took me to an ATM as I hadn´t been able to withdraw cash since getting here, I was starting to panic until I realised the machines I was using didn´t accept Mastercard. Thankfully that´s all sorted now.

We went to a nice little restaurant just off the beach. On the TV was the opening ceremony for the 2012 London Olympics. I thought it was amazing and kept laughing, especially at Mr. Bean´s set. I was really proud to be watching and actually a little sad that I am missing it. I´ve asked my brother to record the Gymnastics and horse riding for me so hopefully he will.

Lunch was really nice, typical rice, beans, chicken and banana. I never actually eat the banana, it´s just too weird. For lunch and a drink cost 2 pounds and 73p. Bargain!!

After lunch we drove along the famous Jaco beach, personally I wasn´t impressed. The sand looked dirty and so did the sea, I much preferred the first beach we went to.

Then we went to our final stop, Hermosa Beach. It was really dark sand and the waves were crashing into the shore. It was lovely as the sun had started to set and I just sat up against a fallen tree reading my book (What better scene to read about naughty Mr. Grey).

The beach was lovely, quite, still and peaceful, until a hermit crap decided to take a seat next to me. Let´s just say my scream and jumping up about 10 foot in the air ruined the tranquil moment. This of course amused Manfred no end.

We left the beach just after 5pm to head back to the hostel It took over two hours to get back so I was very sleepy by the time I got in. I was looking forward to a nice hot shower, but who am I kidding. This is a hostel so I settled for a luke warm one.

On the way back, the sky kept flashing. I wasn´t sure if it was lightening or fireworks but it turned out to be lightening. It was amazing. Everytime it flashed, I smiled. It was really odd as sometimes I´m actually scared of lightening but it just looked so beautiful and it´s the first time I´ve seen lightening without thunder or rain.

During the night though it made up with the rain. It rained from about 10pm until gone 6am. It was so loud crashing down but it sounded fantastic, such energy.

Today is my final day in the hostel, I am heading over to my joining hotel this afternoon. I´ve really enjoyed my first experience in a hostel and it is all thanks to the wonderful owners Manfred and Meylinge. I would certainly highly recommend Costa Rica Love Hostel.

Best day so far

Today has probably been the best day so far. I've been feeling so lonely since getting here and frankly a bit bored. Because there isn't much to do around the hostel.

But today I went on a little tour of a few rivers and rainforest. Because the guy from the hostel runs the tours, it was only me and him.

I didn't have a problem with this as he seems nice. Although when we were in the car in the middle of the forest and he said 'Oh damn I've forgotten my knife' I was slightly concerned.

It's funny as he must have seen the colour drain from my already pale face because he started laughing and explained it was because there are some flowers he likes that would have wanted to take home to his girlfriend.

I did have the opportunity to swim at the first river (Las Juntas) we stopped at but I decided not to. Funny enough, ever since the conversation regarding worms wiggling up my 'lady bits', I don't really want that thanks! Cheers Dad and Stu.

The second river (Rio Sucio) we went to was beautiful. It's the only river in San Jose that forks and merges into one. And one side is brown (due to the zinc in the mountain) and the other side is blue. It was really pretty.

We also visited a coffee plantation. I didn't realise coffee beans were red berries when ripe, they go brown from the roasting. See, I'm learning so much!

The guide also took me to the oldest church in Costa Rica. Is was so beautiful and looked in great condition. He said they have restored it several times. It was originally built in 1895.

He also explained that wherever a church us built, a sports field is built in front of it then a school. That is how the towns are established.

I'm currently in San Jose relaxing in the sun sitting outside the museum. It's been really nice just chilling out and people watching albeit a little lonely.

I've been a little naughty and indulged in some retail therapy. I have two defences: 1. My bag was only 12kg on the way out and 2. I bought two bra tops, a dress and a shirt for the grand sum of £7.12. How could I resist!!!

I think the saying "I can resist anything except temptation" springs to mind.

Tomorrow is my last night in the hostel. I'm looking forward to starting my tour on Saturday and really exploring Costa Rica and hopefully making some friends.

I was going to leave the hostel a day early until I realised they were holding out on me and there's a bigger bathroom. It was like the holy grail when I saw it this morning. It's huge compared to the one I've been using. I may treat myself and even wash my hair tonight.... I know how to live!!

Even the longest journey starts with one small step.

So, my first official travel blog post. I should be used to writing things down in a blog, but I haven't actually written much for a while.

I've enjoyed an amazing weekend with Stuart (my boyfriend). It was his birthday yesterday so we've been together since Thursday. We wanted to spend as much time together as possible before I left.

We really didn't sleep well last night. I kept waking up. It's really odd as I knew I wouldn't sleep well but I was so tired, I thought I would have at least slept a little better.

To be honest, I don't think I slept well not only because I'm going to miss my friends and family loads but this is a pretty big journey for me.

I'm usually a very homely girl but I planned this trip to escape from the anniversary. At the time of booking, I figured I'd prefer to be some place else. Well looks like I've slightly shot myself in the foot...

Don't get me wrong, I am so looking forward to meeting new people, exploring new beautiful places and trying a whole bunch of new things. But I didn't anticipate how difficult it would be to leave everyone.

The journey to the airport was typical. Lots of traffic, I felt nervous and Mum was driving me crazy. I feel bad as I'm sure she means well (ok, who am I kidding, I hope she means well...) but she was really getting on my nerves. I honestly have no patience with her, it's sad really.

By the time we got to the airport, I felt a little rushed. I think I got checked in about an hour and half before my flight. That's actually pretty late for me.

Stu came to the airport with me and we had breakfast together. By the time I walked through security, I was really sad.

I know it's mad as I'm going on such an exciting adventure. But I've also embarked on an amazing journey with Stu.

I never expected to have such strong feelings for someone so quickly. But there really is something special about us. I will miss Stu like crazy but I know he'll be there when I return. Hell he better be, he has my car...!

All joking aside, I'm so thankful for how I'm feeling. I went through the worst year of my life last year, and 2012 has been the best year so far. And I'm sure I've got plenty more great years ahead.

I decided to upgrade to Premium Economy. It wasn't too expensive and it's been nice having a bit extra room. And even real glass and knife and forks... I'm so rock 'n' roll!

I have to admit, it's been really nice. The service with Virgin has been great. It seems Virgin are a very good brand. I'm not sure why it happens to be my favourite brand of late...

Changing flights in Miami was a bit of a nightmare. The signs for where to go wasn't exactly the clearest. Then by the time I had queued twice for different passport controls, I literally had enough time to grab something to eat before catching my American Airlines flight to San Jose.

It's the first time I have flown AA. It seems ok but nothing special. I was fortunate enough to be given an exit seat so I had plenty of leg room but because the flight was just under three hours, there was limited entertainment.

What has kept me slightly amused (and slightly scared...) is some of the advice offered to me for my trip.

Let's see Daddy's advice was;
- Don't leave my drinks unattended (which makes sense however he never said I wasn't allowed to take drinks from strangers).
- Tap my shoes out before putting them on (this is the one that's freaked me out, luckily if any nasty bugs come out of my shoes, then I can at least whack them with my shoe).
- Be safe. (It goes without saying really...).

Some more unique advice has been;
- Plant something, you never know you may return. (Good advice however logically I'm not sure it'll work).
- Do one thing that takes you out of your comfort zone each day. (To be honest, just waking up without any of my friends or family is that).

It's great receiving advice and handy tips. My lovely friend gave me a beautiful travel journal with some lovely quotes and little 'must do' things. I intend to update this blog as much as I can, as well as keep my paper journal.

When I got to Costa Rica airport, I thought it was going to be difficult finding my transfers as lots of guys come running up asking if I need a taxi but I said to one i've arranged through the hostel and he knew who to take me to, so that was good.

The staff at the hostel are very friendly but one of the ladies English is very basic, similar to my Spanish.

I do wish I had taken more time to learn Spanish but funny enough I've been pretty occupied over the last few weeks :-p

My lovely friends bought we a handy phrase book so I think I'm going to spend some time learning some.

I keep getting the little Portuguese I know mixed up with Spanish. I'll figure it out.

The hostel is very clean but basic, which considering this is my first ever stay in a hostel, I'd have to guess this is actually good.

When I got settled last night, I sent Stuart a message and we skyped. I feel bad as it was about 4am in the UK.

I got really upset as I just felt really overwhelmed. I think I was tired from the journey, slightly concerned at my lack of knowledge and preparation and incredibly lonely.

Stu was amazing comforting me and said I'm sure I'll feel better in the morning. Thankfully he was right.

I think today I'll go and explore local to the hostel. Driving at night made it look like a shanti town.... Not good. However the driver said it is a safe area.

Maybe tomorrow I will try to find the beach. I need to get some directions from the hostel. I'm apprehensive about just jumping on a bus but I suppose worse case scenario is, I just get a taxi back. Ok, who am I kidding that's so not worse case however I don't want to think like that.

Well this is my first post from Costa Rica. Hope you are all well and love you loads.

Mucho amor y buenos deseos.