blancas - Blogs - Tripatini2024-03-28T19:22:12Zhttps://tripatini.com/profiles/blogs/feed/tag/blancasSee wild dolphins and whales in Golfo Dulce, Costa Ricahttps://tripatini.com/profiles/blogs/see-wild-dolphins-and-whales-in-golfo-dulce-costa-rica2015-03-16T14:35:06.000Z2015-03-16T14:35:06.000ZShannon Farleyhttps://tripatini.com/members/ShannonFarley<div><p><b><i><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008930677,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img width="550" class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008930677,original{{/staticFileLink}}" height="359" alt="9008930677?profile=original" /></a>Article by Shannon Farley</i></b></p><p></p><p>The last time I was at <a href="http://www.nicuesalodge.com/" target="_blank">Playa Nicuesa Rainforest Lodge</a>, I was down at the beach cooling off from the hot sun in waist-deep <b>tranquil waters of the Golfo Dulce</b>, when suddenly there was a splash very close behind me. I turned quickly to look out toward the Gulf and was <b>greeted by</b> <b>three Bottlenose Dolphins calmly gliding about 15 feet past me</b> parallel to the beach.</p><p> </p><p>This is how it is on <b><a href="http://www.nicuesalodge.com/about-playa-nicuesa/exotic-destination/" target="_blank">Golfo Dulce</a> in southern Costa Rica</b>. During <a href="http://www.enchanting-costarica.com/activities/whale-watching-in-costa-rica/" target="_blank">whale-watching season</a>, you might see a <b>Humpback Whale mother and her calf</b> just offshore. <b>Almost always will you see dolphins</b> when you go on a <strong><a href="http://www.nicuesalodge.com/activities/ocean-eco-adventures/" target="_blank">boat tour of the Golfo Dulce</a></strong> or <strong><a href="http://www.nicuesalodge.com/magical-kayaking-tour-in-costa-rica-mangrove-river/" target="_blank">kayaking in the mangroves of the Esquinas River</a></strong>.</p><p> </p><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008930880,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img width="500" class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008930880,original{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="9008930880?profile=original" /></a>This area of <b>pristine tropical wilderness</b> by the <a href="http://www.nicuesalodge.com/about-playa-nicuesa/getting-here/" target="_blank">Osa Peninsula</a> is home to resident and migratory communities of <strong><a href="http://cetaceansgolfodulce.blogspot.com/p/species.html" target="_blank">Bottlenose Dolphins</a></strong> <i>(Tursiops truncatus)</i>, <b>Spotted Dolphins</b> <i>(Stenella attenuata)</i>, <strong><a href="http://www.costarica-scuba.com/costa-rican-spinner-dolphins/" target="_blank">Spinner Dolphins</a></strong> <i>(</i><i>Stenella longirostris)</i>, and occasionally-seen <b>False Killer Whales</b> <i>(Pseudorca crassidens)</i>. Every <b>August</b> when <strong><a href="http://www.nicuesalodge.com/having-a-whale-of-a-time-at-playa-nicuesa-rainforest-lodge-in-costa-rica/" target="_blank">whale-watching season begins in Golfo Dulce</a></strong>, <b>endangered Pacific Humpback Whales</b> migrate to Costa Rica’s warm waters to breed and give birth. <b><a href="http://cetaceansgolfodulce.blogspot.com/p/golfo-dulce.html" target="_blank">Golfo Dulce</a> is a critical habitat for marine life</b>, states the <a href="http://cetaceansgolfodulce.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Center for Cetacean Research of Costa Rica</a> (CEIC).</p><p> </p><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9296595884,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img width="500" class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9296595884,original{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="9296595884?profile=original" /></a>The Gulf’s calm and very clear jade green-blue water makes it <b>easy to see abundant marine life</b>. <b>Spotted Dolphins</b> are some of the most common dolphins to see, whether in small pods in shallow inshore waters or huge groups of up to 500 dolphins offshore in deep ocean.</p><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008931095,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img width="500" class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008931095,original{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="9008931095?profile=original" /></a> </p><p><b>Bottlenose Dolphins</b> stay close to river mouths, using the tidal cycles to catch fish. Golfo Dulce Bottlenose Dolphins are very social and are frequently seen in pods of two to 15 dolphins. <b>Spinner Dolphins</b>, as is obvious from the name, are known for spinning vertically out of the water on their tails.</p><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008931690,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008931690,original{{/staticFileLink}}" width="500" alt="9008931690?profile=original" /></a> </p><p>When you <b>stay at <a href="http://www.nicuesalodge.com/about-playa-nicuesa/our-philosophy-of-sustainability/" target="_blank">Costa Rica eco-lodge</a></b> <b>Playa Nicuesa</b> you can <b>see dolphins, whales</b> and other marine life in Golfo Dulce. The luxury <a href="http://www.nicuesalodge.com/accommodations/" target="_blank">Costa Rica rainforest lodge</a> has its own 165-acre <b>private rainforest preserve</b> bordering the <a href="http://www.nicuesalodge.com/remarkable-rainforest-of-dreams-in-southern-costa-rica/" target="_blank">Piedras Blancas National Park</a>. It is a <b>unique <a href="http://www.nicuesalodge.com/about-playa-nicuesa/exotic-destination/" target="_blank">Costa Rica adventure travel destination</a></b> for its remote, pristine wilderness location.</p><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008932072,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img width="500" class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008932072,original{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="9008932072?profile=original" /></a></p></div>Unique eco-friendly Playa Nicuesa Rainforest Lodge provides exotic, simple luxury in the Costa Rica junglehttps://tripatini.com/profiles/blogs/unique-eco-friendly-playa-nicuesa-rainforest-lodge-provides2014-11-28T02:47:40.000Z2014-11-28T02:47:40.000ZShannon Farleyhttps://tripatini.com/members/ShannonFarley<div><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008893481,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img width="550" class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008893481,original{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="9008893481?profile=original" /></a>What is it like to <b>stay at <a href="http://www.nicuesalodge.com/" target="_blank">Playa Nicuesa Rainforest Lodge</a></b>?</p><p> </p><p>The extraordinary <a href="http://www.nicuesalodge.com/costa-rica-eco-lodge-rates-packages/" target="_blank">Costa Rica eco-lodge</a> is designed <a href="http://www.nicuesalodge.com/about-playa-nicuesa/our-philosophy-of-sustainability/" target="_blank">sustainably</a>with lodge buildings tucked into the forest back from the beach. All construction is from <b>beautiful tropical hardwoods</b> taken from <b>naturally fallen or farmed trees,</b> and <b>recycled materials.</b></p><p> </p><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008893672,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008893672,original{{/staticFileLink}}" width="500" alt="9008893672?profile=original" /></a>For <a href="http://www.nicuesalodge.com/accommodations/" target="_blank">accommodations at Playa Nicuesa Rainforest Lodge</a>, there are three one-bedroom cabins, one cabin suite, one two-bedroom cabin, four rooms in the two-story Mango Guesthouse, and the two-story three-bedroom Jaguar House. All beds are either queen or twin-sized.</p><p> </p><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008894087,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img width="500" class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008894087,original{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="9008894087?profile=original" /></a>The <b>one-bedroom cabins</b> are very private, surrounded by forest to give you the unique feeling of <b>nature everywhere</b>. The cabins are built up from the ground on stilts, and feature a wall of louvered doors that you can open completely for panoramic views, or close for more privacy and at night. Cabins have one queen bed with mosquito netting; there is a ceiling fan, lights, safe box, closet, large plastic box to keep things dry, flashlight and oversize umbrella (handy in the rainforest!). The <b>unique bathrooms</b> have an <b>open-air garden shower</b> surrounded by high walls. Fabulous, natural, biodegradable bath products are from Costa Rican company <a href="http://www.rawbotanicals.com/" target="_blank">Raw Botanicals</a>. Two of the cabins are near to the main lodge building and one is closer to the beach.</p><p> </p><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008892857,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img width="500" class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008892857,original{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="9008892857?profile=original" /></a>The <b>Cabin Suite</b> is the newest accommodation at Playa Nicuesa Lodge. Near to the main lodge building, this cabin has a paved path and ramp all the way there and <b>accessible features</b> for persons with disabilities. The Cabin Suite has all of the features of the one-bedroom cabins, but is <b>much larger with a sitting area</b>, and a folding partition wall that can create two separate bedrooms if so desired.</p><p> </p><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008894492,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img width="500" class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008894492,original{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="9008894492?profile=original" /></a>The <b>two-bedroom cabin</b> also is like the single cabins but larger with two completely separate bedrooms connected by a sitting area that can also be converted to a third bedroom. There is one shared bathroom with the signature open-air shower. The two-bedroom cabin can <b>accommodate up to five persons</b> and is <b>ideal for families with young children</b>.</p><p> </p><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008895261,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img width="500" class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008895261,original{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="9008895261?profile=original" /></a>Located near the main lodge building, the <b>two-story Mango Guesthouse</b> contains <b>two private rooms upstairs</b> and <b>two private rooms downstairs</b>, each with their own <b>private bathroom and open-air shower</b>. Upstairs rooms have a small balcony sitting area, and downstairs rooms have a private terrace deck. For groups of six to 10 persons, reserving the entire Mango Guesthouse is ideal.</p><p> </p><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008895877,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img width="500" class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008895877,original{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="9008895877?profile=original" /></a>The <b>Jaguar House</b> is a good fit for <b>larger families</b>. The two-story house near the beach has three bedrooms, a living room, two bathrooms, and a very large upper deck looking out to the forest. Listening to the waves will lull you to sleep at night.</p><p> </p><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008896255,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img width="500" class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008896255,original{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="9008896255?profile=original" /></a><a href="http://www.enchanting-hotels.cr/en/playa-nicuesa-rainforest-lodge.html" target="_blank">Playa Nicuesa Rainforest Lodge</a> is located on a <b>165-acre private preserve</b> by the <a href="http://www.nicuesalodge.com/about-playa-nicuesa/exotic-destination/" target="_blank">Osa Peninsula</a> on <a href="http://www.nicuesalodge.com/having-a-whale-of-a-time-at-playa-nicuesa-rainforest-lodge-in-costa-rica/" target="_blank">Golfo Dulce</a> in <b>southern Costa Rica</b>. The property borders the <b><a href="http://www.nicuesalodge.com/remarkable-rainforest-of-dreams-in-southern-costa-rica/" target="_blank">Piedras Blancas National Park</a>.</b> To get there, <a href="http://www.nicuesalodge.com/about-playa-nicuesa/getting-here/" target="_blank">drive or fly</a> (NatureAir or Sansa Airlines) to either <b>Puerto Jimenez or Golfito</b>. Nicuesa Lodge will pick you up by boat and transfer you to the lodge (about 30 minutes one-way). <a href="http://www.nicuesalodge.com/costa-rica-eco-lodge-rates-packages/current-rates/" target="_blank">Included in lodge rates</a> are all meals, boat transfers, all taxes, all meals and snacks, unlimited self-guided hikes on preserve, use of kayaks, snorkeling and fishing equipment.</p><p> </p><p><b>Article by <a href="https://plus.google.com/u/0/+ShannonFarley/posts" target="_blank">Shannon Farley</a><br /></b></p></div>Plant a tree, be eco-minded when you travel at Playa Nicuesa Rainforest Lodge in Costa Ricahttps://tripatini.com/profiles/blogs/plant-a-tree-be-eco-minded-when-you-travel-at-playa-nicuesa2015-06-19T19:27:22.000Z2015-06-19T19:27:22.000ZShannon Farleyhttps://tripatini.com/members/ShannonFarley<div><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008971896,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img width="600" class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008971896,original{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="9008971896?profile=original" /></a>Costa Rica is a small country with a big success story in reforestation.</p><p> </p><p>The Central American nation <b>was nearly devastated by deforestation</b> by the early 1980s. Now more than 30 years later, <b>over 52 percent of Costa Rica’s land is covered with forest</b> between national parks, private reserves and wildlife refuges.</p><p><b>Costa Rica’s</b> <b>progressive reforestation and environmental protection</b> earned the country the accolade of being named the <b>third best <a href="http://www.dualcitizeninc.com/global-green-economy-index/" target="_blank">Green Country in the World</a></b> in the <a href="http://dualcitizeninc.com/GGEI-Report2014.pdf" target="_blank">2014 Global Green Economy Index</a>™ (GGEI).</p><p> </p><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9296601079,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img width="300" class="align-right" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9296601079,original{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="9296601079?profile=original" /></a>In <a href="http://www.nicuesalodge.com/about-playa-nicuesa/getting-here/" target="_blank">southern Costa Rica</a> on the <a href="http://www.enchanting-costarica.com/costa-rica-2/nicuesa-lodge-honors-golfo-dulce-in-costa-rica-on-world-oceans-day/" target="_blank">Golfo Dulce</a> (“Sweet Gulf”), <b>eco-friendly <a href="http://www.nicuesalodge.com/" target="_blank">Playa Nicuesa Rainforest Lodge</a></b> is doing its part to <b>help <a href="http://www.nicuesalodge.com/about-playa-nicuesa/our-philosophy-of-sustainability/carbon-footprint-campaign/" target="_blank">reforest Costa Rica</a></b>. The Costa Rica eco-lodge <strong>protects 95% of their 165-acre rainforest property</strong> in an undeveloped and natural state. They <b>began a</b> <b>reforestation program in 2010</b> to slowly <b>remove the cacao trees</b> – from the <b>former cacao plantation</b> where the lodge is built – that were infected by the fungus <i>Moniliophthora roreri</i>, or “frosty pod rot”. Instead, they are <b><a href="http://costarica-information.com/nature/plants/plants/trees" target="_blank">planting trees native to Costa Rica</a> and the local area</b>.</p><p> </p><p><b>Planting native trees</b> helps re-establish the <b>biological corridor for animals</b> between the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Parque-Nacional-Piedras-Blancas/227176070684454" target="_blank">Piedras Blancas National Park</a> and the <b>Golfito Wildlife Refuge</b> that border either side of Playa Nicuesa Rainforest Lodge.</p><p> </p><p>Nicuesa Lodge guests can <b>take part in the reforestation program by planting a tree</b> when visiting. <b>Guests who plant a tree during their stay at the lodge</b> receive a <b>thank you certificate</b> that includes a photo of the person planting the tree, their name, and the description of the tree planted with the scientific and common names.</p><p> </p><p>So far, approximately <b>150 trees have been planted by hotel guests and staff</b>: species like <b>Cortez Amarillo</b> (<i>Tabebuia</i> <i>ochracea</i>, Gold Trumpet tree), <b>Roble de Sabana</b> (<i>Tabebuia rosea</i>, Pink Trumpet tree), <b>Cenizaro</b> (<i>Samanea saman</i>, Rain Tree), <b>E</b><b>spavel</b> (<i>Anacardium excelsum</i>, Wild Cashew tree), and <b>G</b><b>allinazo</b> (<i>Schizolobium parahyba</i>, Brazilian Fire tree), among others. <b>Trees are obtained by donations and seeds</b> harvested naturally from the forest.</p><p> </p><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008972656,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img width="250" class="align-left" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008972656,original{{/staticFileLink}}" height="255" alt="9008972656?profile=original" /></a>“Last year, we accepted a donation of 50 Cenizaro starter trees from the Costa Rica Tourism Board (ICT). We also collect seeds from the forest on our property, germinate them and grow seedlings, which we then plant in an area we set aside for reforestation,” explained Natalia Solis, Sustainability Coordinator at Playa Nicuesa Rainforest Lodge. “This project invites and involves our guests to be part of a change that helps our environment and also helps offset the carbon emissions generated during their journey and visit to the lodge.”</p><p> </p><p>Besides planting trees when you <b>stay at</b> <b>Playa Nicuesa Rainforest Lodge,</b> you can reduce the ecological impact on the planet generated by your trip by <b><a href="http://www.fonafifo.go.cr/home/investments/carbon_calculator.html" target="_blank">purchasing carbon credits</a> that will be used to reforest land elsewhere in Costa Rica</b>. The program supported by Nicuesa Lodge is with the <b><a href="http://www.fonafifo.go.cr/home/index.html" target="_blank">Costa Rica National Forest Financing Fund</a></b> <a href="http://www.fonafifo.com/" title="FONAFIFO"><b>(FONAFIFO)</b>.</a></p><p> </p><p></p><p><b>Stay at a real Costa Rica eco-lodge</b></p><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008892857,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img width="600" class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008892857,original{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="9008892857?profile=original" /></a><b><a href="http://www.nicuesalodge.com/about-playa-nicuesa/exotic-destination/" target="_blank">Playa Nicuesa Rainforest Lodge</a> opened in April 2003</b> as one of the <b>first true <a href="http://www.enchanting-costarica.com/costa-rica-2/does-real-eco-tourism-exist-in-costa-rica/" target="_blank">eco-lodges in Costa Rica</a></b>. Operating now 12 years, Playa Nicuesa Rainforest Lodge holds the <b>highest rating</b> in the <b><a href="http://www.nicuesalodge.com/about-playa-nicuesa/our-philosophy-of-sustainability/" target="_blank">Certification for Sustainable Tourism Program</a> (CST)</b> by the Costa Rica Tourism Board (ICT). Playa Nicuesa recently received the important <a href="http://www.enchanting-costarica.com/costa-rica-2/costa-rica-eco-lodge-named-cleanest-beach-country/" target="_blank">Ecological Blue Flag Award</a> for the fifth time for having one of <b>Costa Rica’s cleanest beaches</b>. Additionally, <strong>Nicuesa Lodge is working to be certified a <a href="http://www.nicuesalodge.com/about-playa-nicuesa/our-philosophy-of-sustainability/carbon-footprint-campaign/" target="_blank">Carbon Neutral Business</a>, and the lodge supports the <a href="http://www.nicuesalodge.com/about-playa-nicuesa/our-philosophy-of-sustainability/ngos-we-support/" target="_blank">Osa Campaign</a> and the Nature Conservancy</strong> that protects the Golfo Dulce and Osa Peninsula region.</p><p> </p><p><a href="http://www.nicuesalodge.com/costa-rica-eco-lodge-rates-packages/" target="_blank">Contact Playa Nicuesa Rainforest Lodge</a> to visit the unique <a href="http://www.nicuesalodge.com/activities/" target="_blank">nature and adventure travel destination</a>.</p><p> </p><p><b><i>Article by Shannon Farley</i></b></p></div>World Oceans Day 2015: Protecting Golfo Dulce Costa Ricahttps://tripatini.com/profiles/blogs/world-oceans-day-2015-protecting-golfo-dulce-costa-rica2015-06-05T18:31:39.000Z2015-06-05T18:31:39.000ZShannon Farleyhttps://tripatini.com/members/ShannonFarley<div><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008930677,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img width="600" class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008930677,original{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="9008930677?profile=original" /></a>Out on the calm, clear, jade green-blue water of the <a href="http://cetaceansgolfodulce.blogspot.com/p/golfo-dulce.html" target="_blank">Golfo Dulce</a> (“Sweet Gulf”) in <a href="http://www.nicuesalodge.com/about-playa-nicuesa/getting-here/" target="_blank">southern Costa Rica</a>, it is easy to think this must be <b>one of the most pristine, beautiful places on Earth</b>. And it is. This inner sea is a <b>critical habitat for endangered migrating southern Pacific humpback whales, dolphins and sharks</b>, among other marine life.</p><p> </p><p><b>Then our boat passes a small patch of floating plastic bottles</b>, chips bags and other random flotsam. Trash. Human trash. And we are reminded that <b>if anything were to ruin this amazing creation, it would be humans</b>.</p><p> </p><p><b><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008968087,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img width="200" class="align-right" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008968087,original{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="9008968087?profile=original" /></a><a href="http://www.worldoceansday.org/" target="_blank">World Oceans Day</a> on June 8</b> reminds us to honor and protect the <b>beauty and life of the world’s oceans</b>. The <b>annual event by the <a href="http://www.un.org/en/events/oceansday/" target="_blank">United Nations</a></b> focuses this year on the theme <b>“Healthy oceans, healthy planet”</b> and especially on <b>eradicating plastic pollution</b>.</p><p> </p><p>“The ocean and its wildlife are choking on plastic, and we need to both stop this pollution at the source, and clean it up from the coasts,” states the World Oceans Day information. <strong>“The ocean is the heart of our planet.</strong> Like your heart pumping blood to every part of your body, <b>the ocean connects people across the Earth, no matter where we live.</b> The ocean regulates the climate, feeds millions of people every year, produces oxygen, is the home to an incredible array of wildlife, provides us with important medicines, and so much more! In order to ensure the health and safety of our communities and future generations, <b>it’s imperative that we take the responsibility to care for the ocean as it cares for us</b>.”</p><p> </p><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008968260,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img width="600" class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008968260,original{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="9008968260?profile=original" /></a>On the inside of <b>Costa Rica’s Osa Peninsula</b>, <b>Golfo Dulce</b> is approximately 50 km (31 miles) long and 10-15 km (6 -9 miles) wide with a <b>steeply sloped deep inner basin</b>. It is this depth, bottoming out around 215 m (705 ft.), and <b>low human impact</b> of the remote, sheltered gulf <b>that attracts large marine life</b>.</p><p> </p><p><b>Endangered <a href="http://www.enchanting-costarica.com/activities/whale-watching-in-costa-rica/" target="_blank">Pacific humpback whales</a></b> from the southern hemisphere <b>migrate here every August to October</b> to breed and give birth. The gulf is vital to the species’ survival, according to the <a href="http://cetaceansgolfodulce.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Center for Cetacean Research of Costa Rica</a> (CEIC), which is lobbying with other environmental organizations to <b>create a</b> <b>Marine Protected Area within Golfo Dulce</b>.</p><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008968275,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img width="600" class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008968275,original{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="9008968275?profile=original" /></a><a href="http://www.enchanting-costarica.com/activities/dolphin-tale-wild-dolphins-golfo-dulce-costa-rica/" target="_blank">Dolphins</a> – Bottlenose Dolphins, Spotted Dolphins, Spinner Dolphins, and occasionally-seen False Killer Whales – <b>and also sharks</b> live in these waters. You can find <b>tiger sharks</b> and <b>different species of <a href="http://www.scientificamerican.com/article/scalloped-hammerheads-become-first-shark-species-on-the-u-s-endangered-species-list/" target="_blank">hammerhead sharks</a></b> in Golfo Dulce. The <b>area is</b> <b>particularly</b> <b>key for hammerhead sharks</b>, which also come to the gulf to breed and give birth – usually beginning in May. Juvenile sharks then grow for four years in unprotected areas in the Golfo Dulce, according to Andrés López, investigator for the organization <a href="http://misiontiburon.org/en" target="_blank">Misión Tiburón</a> (Shark Mission) in Costa Rica.</p><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008967893,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img width="600" class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008967893,original{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="9008967893?profile=original" /></a> “Every day we are convinced more about the importance of Golfo Dulce for sharks. Today at dawn we marked 13 hammerhead sharks and two tiger sharks,” reported Misión Tiburón on their <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Misi%C3%B3n-Tibur%C3%B3n-Costa-Rica/260573634353?fref=photo" target="_blank">Facebook page</a>.</p><p></p><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008968301,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img width="600" class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008968301,original{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="9008968301?profile=original" /></a> </p><p><a href="https://www.facebook.com/NicuesaLodge" target="_blank">Visit Golfo Dulce in Costa Rica</a></p><p> </p><p><b><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008952670,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img width="200" class="align-right" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008952670,original{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="9008952670?profile=original" /></a>See amazing marine life in the Golfo Dulce</b> when you stay at <b><a href="http://www.nicuesalodge.com/" target="_blank">Playa Nicuesa Rainforest Lodge</a> in Costa Rica.</b> Set in the rainforest on a <b><a href="http://www.enchanting-costarica.com/activities/5-tropical-beaches-want-visit-southern-costa-rica/" target="_blank">remote beach of the Golfo Dulce</a>,</b> the Costa Rica eco-lodge offers <a href="http://www.nicuesalodge.com/activities/ocean-eco-adventures/" target="_blank">boat tours in Golfo Dulce</a> to see marine life and during <a href="http://www.nicuesalodge.com/having-a-whale-of-a-time-at-playa-nicuesa-rainforest-lodge-in-costa-rica/" target="_blank">whale-watching season</a>. You also frequently can see beautiful <a href="http://www.nicuesalodge.com/sparkling-bioluminescence-in-golfo-dulce-costa-rica/" target="_blank">bioluminescence in the gulf</a> on clear nights.</p><p> </p><p><b>Playa Nicuesa Rainforest Lodge</b> holds the <b>highest <a href="http://www.nicuesalodge.com/about-playa-nicuesa/our-philosophy-of-sustainability/" target="_blank">Certification for Sustainable Tourism</a> (CST)</b> in Costa Rica, and recently received the <a href="http://www.enchanting-costarica.com/costa-rica-2/costa-rica-eco-lodge-named-cleanest-beach-country/" target="_blank">Ecological Blue Flag Award</a> for the fifth time for keeping one of the <b>cleanest beaches in Costa Rica</b> free of trash and pollution.</p><p> </p><p><a href="http://www.nicuesalodge.com/costa-rica-eco-lodge-rates-packages/" target="_blank">Contact Playa Nicuesa Rainforest Lodge</a> to visit the unique <a href="http://www.nicuesalodge.com/activities/rainforest-eco-adventures/" target="_blank">nature and adventure travel destination</a>.</p><p> </p><p><b><i>Article by Shannon Farley</i></b></p></div>How did Playa Nicuesa Rainforest Lodge come to be in the remote Costa Rica jungle?https://tripatini.com/profiles/blogs/how-did-playa-nicuesa-rainforest-lodge-come-to-be-in-the-remote2015-05-27T22:00:00.000Z2015-05-27T22:00:00.000ZShannon Farleyhttps://tripatini.com/members/ShannonFarley<div><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008956079,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008956079,original{{/staticFileLink}}" width="640" alt="9008956079?profile=original" /></a>When I first visited <a href="http://www.nicuesalodge.com/" target="_blank">Playa Nicuesa Rainforest Lodge</a> at the end of 2004, what struck me most was <b>how in heaven did this amazing high-end <a href="http://www.nicuesalodge.com/costa-rica-eco-lodge-rates-packages/" target="_blank">Costa Rica eco-lodge</a> come to exist</b> in the middle of a jungle on the sea, with nothing else around?</p><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9296599285,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-right" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9296599285,original{{/staticFileLink}}" width="350" alt="9296599285?profile=original" /></a>The question is a valid one given <b>Nicuesa Lodge’s completely isolated location in <a href="http://www.nicuesalodge.com/about-playa-nicuesa/getting-here/" target="_blank">southern Costa Rica</a></b>. It is <b>a wild place</b> <b>of dense steamy rainforest and tranquil ocean</b>, intensely populated by <b>thousands of species of tropical wildlife</b>. Playa Nicuesa is a little crescent-shaped beach and small bay on the pristine <a href="http://www.enchanting-costarica.com/activities/5-tropical-beaches-want-visit-southern-costa-rica/" target="_blank">Golfo Dulce</a> – “Sweet Gulf” – a critical habitat for <b>migrating Pacific <a href="http://www.enchanting-costarica.com/activities/whale-watching-in-costa-rica/" target="_blank">Humpback Whales</a></b>, <b><a href="http://www.enchanting-costarica.com/activities/dolphin-tale-wild-dolphins-golfo-dulce-costa-rica/" target="_blank">dolphins</a> and hammerhead sharks</b>. The region is dedicated to <b>environmental</b> <b>conservation,</b> from the world-famous <b>Corcovado National Park</b> on the <b>Osa Peninsula</b> to the <a href="http://www.nicuesalodge.com/remarkable-rainforest-of-dreams-in-southern-costa-rica/" target="_blank">Piedras Blancas National Park</a> and three other private reserves.</p><p>What keeps <b>Playa Nicuesa Rainforest Lodge so unique and private</b> is that the lodge is <strong>accessible only by boat.</strong> Almost directly across the gulf from the <b>town of Puerto Jimenez</b>, Nicuesa Lodge’s <b>165-acre private preserve</b> is backed by rugged mountains and wild jungle of the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Parque-Nacional-Piedras-Blancas/227176070684454" target="_blank">Piedras Blancas National Park</a>. There are <b>no roads</b>, and there is <b>no development</b>.</p><p><b><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008956670,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008956670,original{{/staticFileLink}}" width="448" alt="9008956670?profile=original" /></a>So, how did a high-end eco-lodge come to be in this pure, remote place?</b></p><p>The <b>story starts with Nicuesa Lodge owner Michael Butler</b>, when he was a young <b>university graduate student studying urban planning in New York</b> in 1992. The tale involves dreams, adventures, faith, hope and a lot of hard work, all leading to the successful Costa Rica rainforest lodge that stands today.</p><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9296599691,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img width="250" class="align-right" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9296599691,original{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="9296599691?profile=original" /></a>Butler had an opportunity to go to Colombia to work on an urban planning project, but first he needed to improve his Spanish language skills. He took a few months to <b>backpack through Central America</b>, which brought him to Costa Rica for the first time.</p><p>He went to Colombia, finished his degree and was working in urban planning in New York. Then in 1994, he <b>visited a friend in the Peace Corps who was stationed in Costa Rica</b>. He traveled all over the country and <b>especially enjoyed the Osa Peninsula and Golfo Dulce</b>. “I met some people and thought it would be neat to live there,” said Butler. But like most people, he <b>returned home and got busy with work and life</b>. Although he never forgot Costa Rica.</p><p><b>He met a girl – Donna, now his wife</b>, who was working as an environmental planner in New York. The couple talked about Michael’s dream <b>of creating an eco-lodge</b>, and in 2000, got serious about starting the business. “We wanted to build something in a pristine place and have as little impact as possible,” said Butler. “We were really going for <a href="http://www.nicuesalodge.com/about-playa-nicuesa/our-philosophy-of-sustainability/" target="_blank">sustainability</a> when no one knew what that was.”</p><p> </p><p><span class="font-size-4"><b><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008957096,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008957096,original{{/staticFileLink}}" width="640" alt="9008957096?profile=original" /></a>Building Playa Nicuesa Rainforest Lodge</b></span></p><p>Butler returned to the area <b>he liked best in Costa Rica – the <a href="http://www.nicuesalodge.com/about-playa-nicuesa/getting-here/" target="_blank">Osa Peninsula and Golfo Dulce</a></b>. “I fell in love with that area. It was perfect for what we wanted to do,” he said. “At first we thought we’d buy a lodge to fix up, but we ended up falling in love with the area where we are” – which meant building. The <b>Butlers bought their property</b> – <b>an abandoned <a href="http://www.nicuesalodge.com/learn-to-make-chocolate-on-nicuesa-lodge-cocoa-tour/" target="_blank">cacao plantation</a></b> returning to jungle – <b>in 2001</b>, the same year they married.</p><p>In order to <b>supervise the building</b>, the couple had to <b>move to the remote location</b>. Butler said they <b>rented a small rustic cabin on the next beach</b> (San Josecito). It had an outdoor bathroom, one generator-powered light bulb to use to cook at night, and a propane gas stove. They used a large cooler with blocks of ice to store food, went to town once a week by boat for supplies, and their <b>only mode of communication was a marine radio</b>.</p><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008894087,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008894087,original{{/staticFileLink}}" width="640" alt="9008894087?profile=original" /></a>For <b>construction materials</b>, it wasn’t like they could get a delivery truck from the nearest hardware store. The Butlers had to <b>buy a barge to transport any materials</b>, including a backhoe once or twice. <b>The main lodge and most of the cabins were built in two years</b>. The couple really <b>paid attention to sustainability</b>, and also the <b>area’s seismic activity</b>. “We made sure we knew where the wood came from, that the gravel didn’t come from the beach, etc.” said Butler.</p><p><b>The wood used came from tree farms and naturally fallen trees</b> pulled out of the forest. <b>Roofing materials are made of recycled plastic banana bags</b>. They had to build the <b>gravity-fed water system</b> from the mountain springs, and invest in a <b>high-tech solar system</b> to generate electricity. “It was really labor intensive. It was a whole operation with like 20 guys living there to build. We ended up going with all local guys,” said Butler.</p><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008957854,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img width="550" class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008957854,original{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="9008957854?profile=original" /></a></p><p><span class="font-size-4"><b>An eco-lodge is born</b></span></p><p>The hard work paid off and nowadays <a href="http://www.nicuesalodge.com/playa-nicuesa-is-a-top-sustainable-hotel-in-costa-rica/" target="_blank">Playa Nicuesa Rainforest Lodge</a> holds the <b>highest rating</b> in the <b>Costa Rica Certification for Sustainable Tourism Program (CST)</b>. Playa Nicuesa also recently received the important <a href="http://www.enchanting-costarica.com/costa-rica-2/costa-rica-eco-lodge-named-cleanest-beach-country/" target="_blank">Ecological Blue Flag Award</a> for the fifth time for having one of <b>Costa Rica’s cleanest beaches</b>.</p><p><b>Playa Nicuesa Rainforest Lodge opened in April 2003</b> as one of the <b>first true <a href="http://www.nicuesalodge.com/about-playa-nicuesa/exotic-destination/" target="_blank">eco-lodges in Costa Rica</a></b>. Operating now 12 years, Butler says <b>the lodge has improved greatly over the years</b>. “Things have changed so much now,” he said. “There’s cell phone service at the lodge, electricity, a chef who cooks your meals ….” <b>More <a href="http://www.nicuesalodge.com/accommodations/" target="_blank">cabins</a>, a <a href="http://www.nicuesalodge.com/yoga-and-wellness-nicuesa-lodge/" target="_blank">yoga</a> deck, a <a href="http://www.nicuesalodge.com/harnessing-the-sun%E2%80%99s-energy-in-the-costa-rica-rainforest/" target="_blank">solar drying room</a></b> and employee facilities have been added; gardens and orchards planted.</p><p><b><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9296599298,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9296599298,original{{/staticFileLink}}" width="500" alt="9296599298?profile=original" /></a>The <a href="http://www.tripadvisor.com/Hotel_Review-g309284-d531378-Reviews-Playa_Nicuesa_Rainforest_Lodge-Puerto_Jimenez_Osa_Peninsula_Province_of_Puntarenas.html" target="_blank">Costa Rica rainforest lodge</a> really is a paradise</b> – appreciated more than ever, Butler says since he doesn’t live there full-time anymore. The Butlers first son, Leo, was born in 2004 and spent his first years at the lodge. When the Butlers second son, Henry, was born in 2007, the family needed to move back to “civilization”.</p><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008958470,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img width="650" class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008958470,original{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="9008958470?profile=original" /></a>For owner Michael Butler, <b>the best part about the maximum 30-guest lodge</b> is the <b>uncrowded pristine nature</b>. “You experience a big rain in the rainforest. Go out for a <a href="http://www.nicuesalodge.com/activities/ocean-eco-adventures/" target="_blank">kayak</a> at sunset and you’re the only person out there. And then you have a bartender making you a cocktail and a chef cooking you a fresh meal,” he said. “You go on the <a href="http://www.nicuesalodge.com/activities/rainforest-eco-adventures/" target="_blank">waterfall hike</a>, and it’s just you. There aren’t six groups coming up behind you. Our lodge seems to always be the highlight of people’s vacations, something they always remember.”</p><p><strong>For a real Costa Rica rainforest experience,</strong> <a href="http://www.nicuesalodge.com/costa-rica-eco-lodge-rates-packages/reservations/" target="_blank">contact Playa Nicuesa Rainforest Lodge</a><strong>.</strong></p><p> </p><p><b><i>Article by Shannon Farley</i></b></p></div>Costa Rica's cleanest beacheshttps://tripatini.com/profiles/blogs/costa-rica-s-cleanest-beaches2015-04-24T01:58:01.000Z2015-04-24T01:58:01.000ZShannon Farleyhttps://tripatini.com/members/ShannonFarley<div><p>The <b>trash problem of the world’s oceans</b> has reached epic proportions. However, in the small Central American nation of <b>Costa Rica</b>, <b>108 beach communities</b> <b>have taken a stand against litter and pollution</b> and are working to make a difference in the world predicament.</p><p> </p><p><b><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008952101,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-right" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008952101,original{{/staticFileLink}}" height="181" width="233" alt="9008952101?profile=original" /></a>The record number of Costa Rica beaches</b> received <b><a href="http://blog.natureair.com/index.php/2013/07/what-is-costa-ricas-blue-flag-program/" target="_blank">Ecological Blue Flag Awards</a> for 2014</b> for having good ecological practices, clean beaches, community cooperation and coastal protection. The <b>annual awards</b> were given out in a ceremony held in March 2015.</p><p> </p><p>One of these Costa Rica beaches that are tackling the world problem of ocean pollution is <a href="http://www.nicuesalodge.com/about-playa-nicuesa/" target="_blank">Playa Nicuesa</a>. The small beach <b>on the <a href="http://www.nicuesalodge.com/about-playa-nicuesa/getting-here/" target="_blank">Golfo Dulce in southern Costa Rica</a></b> is home to <b><a href="http://www.nicuesalodge.com/" target="_blank">Playa Nicuesa Rainforest Lodge</a>,</b> a sustainable Costa Rica eco-lodge known for its <b>pristine tropical beach</b>, <b>beautiful rainforest</b>, and <b>jade green Pacific Ocean</b> so clear you can see to the bottom. The region is a <a href="http://www.enchanting-costarica.com/costa-rica-2/does-real-eco-tourism-exist-in-costa-rica/" target="_blank">giant conservation area</a> that includes the world-famous <b>Corcovado National Park</b> on the <b>Osa Peninsula</b>, the <a href="http://www.nicuesalodge.com/remarkable-rainforest-of-dreams-in-southern-costa-rica/" target="_blank">Piedras Blancas National Park</a> and three other private reserves. The unique <b>Golfo Dulce</b> – “Sweet Gulf” – is a critical habitat for <b>migrating <a href="http://www.nicuesalodge.com/having-a-whale-of-a-time-at-playa-nicuesa-rainforest-lodge-in-costa-rica/" target="_blank">Pacific Humpback Whales</a></b>, and <b><a href="http://www.enchanting-costarica.com/activities/dolphin-tale-wild-dolphins-golfo-dulce-costa-rica/" target="_blank">dolphins</a> and sea turtles</b>.</p><p><b><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008873474,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008873474,original{{/staticFileLink}}" width="640" alt="9008873474?profile=original" /></a>Keeping these beaches unspoiled</b> is important, and <b>is</b> <b>a full-time job that Nicuesa Lodge staff</b> undertakes with conviction. This is the fifth time Nicuesa Lodge has been honored with receiving the <a href="http://www.ticotimes.net/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/BAE2015.jpg" target="_blank">Blue Flag Award</a> for being one of <a href="http://www.ticotimes.net/2015/03/27/costa-ricas-cleanest-beaches" target="_blank">Costa Rica’s cleanest beaches</a>.</p><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008956880,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img width="300" class="align-left" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008956880,original{{/staticFileLink}}" height="234" alt="9008956880?profile=original" /></a>“We are proud to say that <b>Playa Nicuesa is a very clean beach</b>, where our guests can enjoy it without any danger. We constantly hold beach cleanups to keep our beach clean,” said Natalia Solis, Sustainability Coordinator at Playa Nicuesa Rainforest Lodge. “These efforts to help nature are of the utmost importance to Playa Nicuesa since it is <b>part of the philosophy and principles that we have as a <a href="http://www.nicuesalodge.com/about-playa-nicuesa/our-philosophy-of-sustainability/" target="_blank">sustainable hotel</a></b>.”</p><p><b> </b></p><p><b>Playa Nicuesa Rainforest Lodge</b> is one of only three dozen hotels in Costa Rica that have received the <b>highest rating</b> in the <b><a href="http://www.nicuesalodge.com/playa-nicuesa-is-a-top-sustainable-hotel-in-costa-rica/" target="_blank">Certification for Sustainable Tourism Program</a> (CST)</b> by the Costa Rica Tourism Board (ICT).</p><p>In addition to its participation in the 19-year-old <a href="http://www.visitcostarica.com/ict/paginas/mapas/areasurf.asp?tab=0" target="_blank">Costa Rica Blue Flag Ecological Program</a> (<i>Bandera Azul Ecológica</i>), the <a href="http://www.nicuesalodge.com/costa-rica-eco-lodge-rates-packages/" target="_blank">Costa Rica eco-lodge</a> is involved in <b>many sustainable environmental projects:</b></p><ul><li><b>Beach cleanups</b> every four to six weeks by staff and guests.</li><li>Maintain five <b>trash receptacles near the beach</b> at Playa Nicuesa.</li><li>Work with the <b>Costa Rica Health Ministry campaign against dengue fever</b> in the region.</li><li>Hold <b>workshops on environmental issues</b>.</li><li><b>Test the hotel’s potable water</b> at least every three months to ensure its safe drinkability.</li><li><b>Test the ocean water</b> at Playa Nicuesa twice a year.</li><li><b>Reforestation</b> with native Costa Rican tree species to <b>create a biological corridor</b>.</li></ul><p> </p><p>“We know that we only have one planet and it is our home; this is why we try to improve our sustainable practices,” said Solis. “We hope that many more people join this program and that there are more beaches like Playa Nicuesa to set an example and motivate others to work together to protect our country’s precious natural resources.”</p><p><b> </b></p><p><b><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008957492,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008957492,original{{/staticFileLink}}" width="640" alt="9008957492?profile=original" /></a>Playa Nicuesa Rainforest Lodge</b></p><p> </p><p>A true <b>Costa Rica rainforest lodge</b>, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/NicuesaLodge" target="_blank">Playa Nicuesa Rainforest Lodge</a> is located on a <b>165-acre private rainforest preserve</b>. Being a <b>unique <a href="http://www.nicuesalodge.com/costa-rica-eco-lodge-rates-packages/vacation-packages/multisport-escapade/" target="_blank">adventure travel destination</a></b>, the <b>only way to get there is by boat</b> across the pristine waters of the Golfo Dulce from either <b>Golfito</b> or <b>Puerto Jimenez</b>.</p><p> </p><p><b><i>Article by Shannon Farley</i></b></p></div>What’s cooking at Playa Nicuesa Rainforest Lodge in Costa Rica?https://tripatini.com/profiles/blogs/what-s-cooking-at-playa-nicuesa-rainforest-lodge-in-costa-rica2015-04-01T00:08:45.000Z2015-04-01T00:08:45.000ZShannon Farleyhttps://tripatini.com/members/ShannonFarley<div><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008949874,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img width="500" class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008949874,original{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="9008949874?profile=original" /></a>Let’s face it; we all care about what we eat. So if <b>visiting a <a href="http://www.nicuesalodge.com/about-playa-nicuesa/exotic-destination/" target="_blank">remote jungle eco-lodge</a></b> is in your plans, you might be <b>wondering if mealtime will resemble a <i>Mission Survive</i> episode</b> or be awesome.</p><p> </p><p>In fact, remote <strong><a href="http://www.nicuesalodge.com/" target="_blank">Costa Rica eco-lodge Playa Nicuesa Rainforest Lodge</a></strong> gets regular <b>rave reviews from guests</b> about its <b><a href="http://www.nicuesalodge.com/dining_costa_rica_eco_lodge/" target="_blank">exceptional, fresh, gourmet cuisine</a>. The abundance of fresh, healthy and wholesome ingredients</b> is inspiring, and <b>head chef Edixon Lezcano</b> adds a huge helping of creativity to Nicuesa’s menus. There are <b>Asian influences</b> – soy, ginger, citrus and tamarind sauces and dressings. There are <b>Latino influences</b> – quinoa, rice, beans, sauces and cooking methods. And then there are <b>“Edixon influences”</b> like homemade rich dark chocolate cake served with a sweet citrus sauce made from cas fruit (a kind of guava).</p><p> </p><p>“I try to serve healthy cuisine that is low in fat, using natural products that are not artificial,” noted Lezcano, who has delighted guests with his fantastic meals for the past eight years at Nicuesa Lodge.</p><p> </p><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008949693,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img width="500" class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008949693,original{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="9008949693?profile=original" /></a>One of the great aspects about <a href="http://www.nicuesalodge.com/" target="_blank">Playa Nicuesa Rainforest Lodge</a> is that <b>you don’t have to worry about where you are going to eat or what you will eat</b>. <a href="http://www.nicuesalodge.com/about-playa-nicuesa/frequently-asked-questions/" target="_blank">All meals are included</a> with your stay at the premier Costa Rica rainforest lodge, due to its remote wilderness location. <b>Playa Nicuesa</b> sits on the <b>Golfo Dulce</b> (“Sweet Gulf”) <b>in <a href="http://www.nicuesalodge.com/about-playa-nicuesa/getting-here/" target="_blank">southern Costa Rica</a>,</b> next to the <a href="http://www.nicuesalodge.com/remarkable-rainforest-of-dreams-in-southern-costa-rica/" target="_blank">Piedras Blancas National Park</a> and across from the <b>Osa Peninsula.</b> It is an area of <b>pristine tropical wilderness</b> – a <a href="http://www.nicuesalodge.com/about-playa-nicuesa/exotic-destination/" target="_blank">unique adventure travel destination</a>.</p><p> </p><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008820465,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img width="600" class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008820465,original{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="9008820465?profile=original" /></a>Meals are <b>served with flair</b> in Nicuesa Lodge’s <b>magnificent two-story tree house-style main lodge building</b>. The <b>open-air dining area</b> lets you look out at the tree canopy (great for wildlife spotting), the forest, beach and ocean; an open side deck is perfect for gazing at the night sky packed with stars. <b>Seating is family-style</b> with everyone at the lodge, which leads to <b>wonderful engaging conversations</b> about that day’s adventures, other travels and the beauty of life.</p><p> </p><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008893672,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008893672,original{{/staticFileLink}}" width="500" alt="9008893672?profile=original" /></a>On Nicuesa’s 165-acre private reserve they <b>grow tropical fruit trees</b> like mangoes, star fruit, cas guava, oranges, lemons, papayas, water apples, bananas, plantains and coconuts. The <a href="http://www.nicuesalodge.com/activities/rainforest-eco-adventures/" target="_blank">edible garden</a> supplies pineapples, sugar cane, basil, spinach, and other vegetables and herbs. They even grow cacao trees and offer a <a href="http://www.nicuesalodge.com/learn-to-make-chocolate-on-nicuesa-lodge-cocoa-tour/" target="_blank">chocolate tour</a> to show you the delicious process of making organic chocolate. <b>All breads, tortillas, desserts, juices and sauces are made fresh on-site</b>.</p><p> </p><p><b><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008951254,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img width="450" class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008951254,original{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="9008951254?profile=original" /></a><a href="http://www.nicuesalodge.com/activities/bountiful-fishing-trips/" target="_blank">Fishing</a> is a popular pastime</b> at the Costa Rica eco-lodge, which is a bonus for the kitchen. “If someone goes fishing and catches fish, we serve it the same day along with dinner to treat everyone,” said Lezcano.</p><p> </p><p>There are <b>always vegetarian and kids’ options</b> at all meals. <b>Happy hour</b> is one of the best times of the day, when guests gather for exotic tropical drink specials and tempting appetizers <b>every night before dinner</b> in the candlelit bar.</p><p> </p><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008951479,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008951479,original{{/staticFileLink}}" width="500" alt="9008951479?profile=original" /></a><a href="http://www.nicuesalodge.com/costa-rica-eco-lodge-rates-packages/reservations/" target="_blank">Contact Playa Nicuesa Rainforest Lodge</a> to book your <b><a href="http://www.nicuesalodge.com/costa-rica-eco-lodge-rates-packages/vacation-packages/family-adventure/" target="_blank">Costa Rica family vacation</a>, <a href="http://www.nicuesalodge.com/costa-rica-eco-lodge-rates-packages/vacation-packages/honeymoon-getaway/" target="_blank">honeymoon</a>, <a href="http://www.nicuesalodge.com/costa-rica-eco-lodge-rates-packages/vacation-packages/rainforest-eco-rainforest/" target="_blank">nature</a>and <a href="http://www.nicuesalodge.com/costa-rica-eco-lodge-rates-packages/vacation-packages/multisport-escapade/" target="_blank">adventure vacation</a>, or</b> <a href="http://www.nicuesalodge.com/yoga-and-wellness-nicuesa-lodge/" target="_blank">yoga retreat</a>.</p><p> </p><p><b><i>Article by <a href="https://plus.google.com/u/0/+ShannonFarley/posts" target="_blank">Shannon Farley</a><br /></i></b></p></div>Day-dreaming about Costa Rica? Get packing!https://tripatini.com/profiles/blogs/day-dreaming-about-costa-rica-get-packing2015-03-27T00:39:17.000Z2015-03-27T00:39:17.000ZShannon Farleyhttps://tripatini.com/members/ShannonFarley<div><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008935079,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008935079,original{{/staticFileLink}}" width="498" alt="9008935079?profile=original" /></a>I’m sitting at my desk, meant to be working. What I’m really doing is daydreaming about <a href="http://www.nicuesalodge.com/activities/ocean-eco-adventures/" target="_blank">snorkeling in the Golfo Dulce in Costa Rica</a>.</p><p> </p><p>I’m plotting how I can get <b>back to <a href="http://www.nicuesalodge.com/" target="_blank">Playa Nicuesa Rainforest Lodge</a> on <a href="http://www.nicuesalodge.com/about-playa-nicuesa/exotic-destination/" target="_blank">Golfo Dulce</a></b>. I’m remembering swimming in that calm sea and <b>the feel of delicious water</b> – not bath-water warm, but not cold either. I’m thinking about <b>how clear the Golfo Dulce water is</b>, and how vibrantly it <b>changes color from deep jade green</b> next to the shoreline where it reflects the jungle, <b>to bright blue</b> where it mirrors the immense sky. And I’m remembering the <b>thrill at <a href="http://www.enchanting-costarica.com/activities/dolphin-tale-wild-dolphins-golfo-dulce-costa-rica/" target="_blank">seeing wild dolphins</a></b> splash and play nearby.</p><p> </p><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9296596487,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img width="500" class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9296596487,original{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="9296596487?profile=original" /></a>It takes <b>a journey to get to</b> <b>the</b> <a href="http://www.nicuesalodge.com/accommodations/" target="_blank">Costa Rica rainforest lodge</a> <b>of</b> <b>Playa Nicuesa</b>, but most <a href="http://www.nicuesalodge.com/about-playa-nicuesa/exotic-destination/" target="_blank">unique locations</a> do. And it is worth it. <b>The <a href="http://www.nicuesalodge.com/about-playa-nicuesa/our-philosophy-of-sustainability/" target="_blank">Costa Rica eco-lodge</a></b> sits on the <b>Golfo Dulce</b> (“Sweet Gulf”) <b>in <a href="http://www.nicuesalodge.com/about-playa-nicuesa/getting-here/" target="_blank">southern Costa Rica</a>,</b> next to the <a href="http://www.nicuesalodge.com/remarkable-rainforest-of-dreams-in-southern-costa-rica/" target="_blank">Piedras Blancas National Park</a> and across from the <b>Osa Peninsula.</b> It is an area of <b>pristine tropical wilderness</b> – something you don’t see every day.</p><p> </p><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008873474,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img width="550" class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008873474,original{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="9008873474?profile=original" /></a>When you get there, you have <b>free use of kayaks, snorkeling and fishing equipment</b>, and <b>unlimited self-guided <a href="http://www.nicuesalodge.com/activities/" target="_blank">hikes in the rainforest</a> included</b> with your stay. Playa Nicuesa also has <a href="http://www.nicuesalodge.com/yoga-and-wellness-nicuesa-lodge/" target="_blank">yoga classes</a>, and <b>guided half-day and full-day tours</b>.</p><p><em> </em></p><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9296596498,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9296596498,original{{/staticFileLink}}" width="486" alt="9296596498?profile=original" /></a>For <b>snorkeling</b>, water clarity is best during summer season (January to May), but is <b>wonderful any time of year</b>. During <a href="http://www.nicuesalodge.com/having-a-whale-of-a-time-at-playa-nicuesa-rainforest-lodge-in-costa-rica/" target="_blank">whale-watching season</a> in August and September in the Gulf, you might see a migrating <b>Humpback Whale mother and her calf,</b> or a male whale looking for a mate. Almost always you will <b>see dolphins</b>. One year, a guest snorkeled right along with a massive (and gentle) whale shark.</p><p> </p><p><b><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008935877,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img width="550" class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008935877,original{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="9008935877?profile=original" /></a><a href="http://www.nicuesalodge.com/activities/ocean-eco-adventures/" target="_blank">Snorkeling activities at Playa Nicuesa Rainforest Lodge</a> include:</b></p><p></p><p>Snorkeling right <b>off the Playa Nicuesa boat dock or beach</b> to see multitudes of reef fish.</p><h3><span class="font-size-2"><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008936454,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img width="450" class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008936454,original{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="9008936454?profile=original" /></a>A kayaking/snorkeling tour (2-3 hours) from Playa Nicuesa along the Golfo Dulce shoreline to a secluded beach with rocky reef housing fish, eels, urchins and starfish</span>.</h3><p></p><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008936492,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img width="450" class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008936492,original{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="9008936492?profile=original" /></a>A <b>boat tour of Golfo Dulce</b> <b>(</b><b>2-4 hours)</b> to look for dolphins and other marine life, and <b>snorkel</b> in protected sites with coral reef. Marine life you may see include reef fish, schools of fish, spotted rays, starfish, dolphins and sea turtles.</p><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008937465,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img width="450" class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008937465,original{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="9008937465?profile=original" /></a></p><p>Contact Playa Nicuesa Rainforest Lodge to book your Costa Rica adventure.</p><p> </p><p><b><i>Article by Shannon Farley</i></b></p></div>People need nature. See why in the Costa Rica rainforest.https://tripatini.com/profiles/blogs/people-need-nature-see-why-in-the-costa-rica-rainforest2015-03-16T14:36:22.000Z2015-03-16T14:36:22.000ZShannon Farleyhttps://tripatini.com/members/ShannonFarley<div><p><b><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008820465,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img width="600" class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008820465,original{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="9008820465?profile=original" /></a>Article by <a href="https://plus.google.com/u/0/+ShannonFarley/posts" target="_blank">Shannon Farley</a><br /></b></p><p></p><p>“Nature doesn’t need people. People need nature,” is the message from <a href="http://natureisspeaking.org/" target="_blank">Conservation International</a>. The <b>environmental organization’s</b> <b>widely popular video campaigns</b> use famous actors’ and actresses’ voices with beautiful video footage of nature in two-minute messages to promote their important <a href="http://natureisspeaking.org/about.html" target="_blank">manifesto</a>:</p><p><b>“Human beings are part of nature. Nature is not dependent on human beings to exist. Human beings, on the other hand, are totally dependent on nature to exist.”</b></p><p>In Conservation International’s <b>“Nature is speaking” videos</b>, the pervading missive is “the only way to save ourselves is to listen to nature.”</p><p>“If they don’t figure out that <b>they are a part of nature, instead of just using nature</b>, they won’t be around,” cautions actor Robert Redford, speaking as a <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3e66bnuxV2A" target="_blank">redwood tree</a> about humans.</p><p>“One way or another, every living thing here needs me,” advises actor Harrison Ford in Conservation International’s video about the <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rM6txLtoaoc" target="_blank">ocean</a>. “It’s not their planet anyway. Never was. Never will be … <b>if nature isn’t kept healthy, humans won’t survive</b>. Simple as that.”</p><p><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/rM6txLtoaoc?wmode=opaque" frameborder="0"></iframe></p><p>There is a video about the crucial importance of <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lVMV3StvLCs" target="_blank">coral reef</a> on the planet, and a dramatic chilling message about not ever eating again if humans keep destroying <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Dor4XvjA8Wo" target="_blank">the soil</a>. There is a lighthearted video on <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0_OxI2JZex4" target="_blank">beautiful flowers</a> and their key role in nature, and a harbinger of doom about <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fwV9OYeGN88" target="_blank">water</a>and the <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rM6txLtoaoc" target="_blank">power of the oceans</a>. The <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jBqMJzv4Cs8" target="_blank">rainforest</a>is our source for wood, medicinal plants, escape, and most importantly, air. Julia Roberts as <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WmVLcj-XKnM" target="_blank">Mother Nature</a> tells us that she does not need us, but rather we need her.</p><p><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/WmVLcj-XKnM?wmode=opaque" frameborder="0"></iframe> </p><p>Roberts’ narrative sums up the significance: “Some call me nature. Others call me ‘Mother Nature.’ I’ve been here for over 4.5 billion years – 22,500 times longer than you. I don’t really need people, but people need me … when I thrive, you thrive. When I falter, you falter, or worse.”</p><p><b>You can <a href="http://natureisspeaking.org/act.html" target="_blank">take action to join nature</a></b> and <b>see the ocean, rainforest, soil, flowers, rivers and coral reef</b> in Mother Nature’s entire splendor at <b><a href="http://www.nicuesalodge.com/" target="_blank">Playa Nicuesa Rainforest Lodge</a> in Costa Rica</b>. The extraordinary <a href="http://www.nicuesalodge.com/costa-rica-eco-lodge-rates-packages/" target="_blank">Costa Rica eco-lodge</a> is located on a <b>165-acre private preserve</b> on the <a href="http://www.nicuesalodge.com/about-playa-nicuesa/exotic-destination/" target="_blank">Golfo Dulce</a> (“Sweet Gulf”) in <b>southern Costa Rica</b>. The <a href="http://www.nicuesalodge.com/about-playa-nicuesa/our-philosophy-of-sustainability/" target="_blank">sustainably-designed property</a> borders the <a href="http://www.nicuesalodge.com/activities/rainforest-eco-adventures/" target="_blank">Piedras Blancas National Park</a> and the <b><a href="http://www.nicuesalodge.com/about-playa-nicuesa/getting-here/" target="_blank">Osa Peninsula</a>.</b></p><p> </p></div>Win a trip to Playa Nicuesa Lodge in Costa Rica with cookbook photo contesthttps://tripatini.com/profiles/blogs/win-a-trip-to-playa-nicuesa-lodge-in-costa-rica-with-cookbook2014-12-13T22:27:59.000Z2014-12-13T22:27:59.000ZShannon Farleyhttps://tripatini.com/members/ShannonFarley<div><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008906474,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img width="450" class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008906474,original{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="9008906474?profile=original" /></a>Whenever I travel anywhere that serves delicious meals, I always think, “How can I recreate this at home and enjoy it again?”</p><p> </p><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008907489,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img width="350" class="align-right" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008907489,original{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="9008907489?profile=original" /></a>In the case of <b><a href="http://www.nicuesalodge.com/" target="_blank">Playa Nicuesa Rainforest Lodge</a> in Costa Rica</b>, now I can. The <a href="http://www.nicuesalodge.com/costa-rica-eco-lodge-rates-packages/" target="_blank">Costa Rica rainforest lodge</a> by the <a href="http://www.nicuesalodge.com/about-playa-nicuesa/getting-here/" target="_blank">Osa Peninsula</a> has released a free PDF downloadable <a href="http://www.nicuesalodge.com/cookbook/PNRL_Edible-Landscapes-Garden-Cookbook_2014-Edition.pdf" target="_blank">Edible Landscape Garden Cookbook</a> with a collection of 38 of their most popular recipes.</p><p> </p><p>Read any of the <a href="http://www.tripadvisor.com/Hotel_Review-g309270-d531378-Reviews-Playa_Nicuesa_Rainforest_Lodge-Golfito_Osa_Peninsula_Province_of_Puntarenas.html" target="_blank">TripAdvisor reviews</a> about <a href="http://www.nicuesalodge.com/about-playa-nicuesa/exotic-destination/" target="_blank">Playa Nicuesa Rainforest Lodge</a> and guests always mention the <a href="http://www.nicuesalodge.com/dining_costa_rica_eco_lodge/" target="_blank">delicious fresh meals</a>, tropical fruit and creative cocktails. Now you can create a little bit of <b>tropical paradise right in your own kitchen</b>.</p><p> </p><p>“Playa Nicuesa Rainforest Lodge was conceived in 2003 as a place where visitors would enjoy an intimate experience with the natural wonders of the Costa Rica rainforest and the Pacific Ocean, while enjoying an adventurous and sustainable vacation. Guests enjoyed our fresh and locally-sourced food so much that our family-style meals soon became a central part of the Nicuesa Lodge experience. More and more guests would ask us for our recipes to take home with them, and so was born the idea for our Edible Landscape Garden Cookbook,” write Nicuesa Lodge owners in the book introduction. “Our recipes became a clear reflection of Nicuesa’s overall philosophy: authentic, fresh, natural, fun and sustainable.”</p><p> </p><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008906494,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img width="350" class="align-left" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008906494,original{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="9008906494?profile=original" /></a>You can even enter a <a href="https://www.facebook.com/NicuesaLodge/app_600469859988196" target="_blank">photo contest</a> based on the new cookbook to <b>win a four-night vacation for two persons</b> at the <a href="http://www.nicuesalodge.com/about-playa-nicuesa/our-philosophy-of-sustainability/" target="_blank">Costa Rica eco-lodge</a>.</p><p> </p><p><b>The photo contest is easy</b>. Simply <b>download the new <a href="http://www.nicuesalodge.com/cookbook/PNRL_Edible-Landscapes-Garden-Cookbook_2014-Edition.pdf" target="_blank">Edible Landscape Garden Cookbook</a></b> from Playa Nicuesa Rainforest Lodge, and <b>prepare any recipe</b> you wish from the collection. <b>Snap a fun photo</b> of you, your family and/or friends enjoying the delicious dish and submit your photo on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/NicuesaLodge/app_600469859988196" target="_blank">Nicuesa Lodge’s Facebook photo campaign page</a>. Then <b>tell all of your friends to vote for your photo</b>. The photo with the <b>most votes by Dec. 15 wins!</b></p><p> </p><p>The winner will receive a <strong>four-night stay for two persons</strong> in a double Room in the <strong>Mango Guesthouse at Playa Nicuesa Rainforest Lodge with all meals</strong>, unlimited use of kayaks, snorkeling gear and fishing equipment, self-guided hikes throughout the 165-acre preserve, and boat transfers between the lodge and either Golfito or Puerto Jimenez. The stay at Playa Nicuesa Rainforest Lodge is valid between May 1, 2015 through <a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008907500,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img width="350" class="align-right" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008907500,original{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="9008907500?profile=original" /></a>September 30, 2015, or November 16, 2015 through December 15, 2015 (all dates subject to availability). See the official rules on the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/NicuesaLodge" target="_blank">Facebook page</a> for more details.</p><p> </p><p>You definitely don’t want to miss this opportunity to win a trip for two to the fabulous eco-lodge located on a 165-acre private preserve by the <a href="http://www.nicuesalodge.com/remarkable-rainforest-of-dreams-in-southern-costa-rica/" target="_blank">Piedras Blancas National Park</a> on <a href="http://www.nicuesalodge.com/having-a-whale-of-a-time-at-playa-nicuesa-rainforest-lodge-in-costa-rica/" target="_blank">Golfo Dulce</a> in <b>southern Costa Rica</b>. So get cooking and snapping!</p><p> </p><p><b>Article by <a href="https://plus.google.com/+ShannonFarley/posts" target="_blank">Shannon Farley</a><br /></b></p></div>Costa Rica makes Top 10 Green Countries in the Worldhttps://tripatini.com/profiles/blogs/costa-rica-makes-top-10-green-countries-in-the-world2014-11-15T21:48:32.000Z2014-11-15T21:48:32.000ZShannon Farleyhttps://tripatini.com/members/ShannonFarley<div><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008891657,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img width="300" class="align-left" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008891657,original{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="9008891657?profile=original" /></a>Right behind <b>Sweden and Norway</b> as the <b>top Green Countries in the World</b>, is the little <b>Central American nation of Costa Rica</b>.</p><p> </p><p>According to the recently released <a href="http://dualcitizeninc.com/GGEI-Report2014.pdf" target="_blank">2014 Global Green Economy Index</a>™ (GGEI), <b>Costa Rica</b> is the <b>third best Green Country in the World.</b></p><p> </p><p>The Global Green Economy Index™ (GGEI) measures the <b>green economic performance</b> <b>of 60 countries</b> <b>and 70 cities</b> in the world. The GGEI also assesses the <b>public’s perception of a nation’s green</b> <b>performance</b>. The fourth edition of the GGEI, published by private U.S.-based consultancy <a href="http://www.dualcitizeninc.com/global-green-economy-index/" target="_blank">Dual Citizen LLC</a> was released at the end of October 2014.</p><p> </p><p>For <b>Green</b> <b>Performance</b>, the <b>top 10 countries</b> are: Sweden, Norway, Costa Rica, Germany, Denmark, Switzerland, Austria, Finland, Iceland and Spain. For <b>Perception</b>, <b>Germany leads</b>, followed by Denmark, Sweden, Norway, Netherlands, United States, Japan, UK, Finland and Switzerland; <b>Costa Rica comes in at 14<sup>th</sup> place in this ranking</b>. The Perception index is interesting given that Costa Rica ranks third in performance but 14<sup>th</sup> in perception; while China ranks 13<sup>th</sup> in perception and 55<sup>th</sup> in performance.</p><p> </p><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008892469,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img width="200" class="align-right" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008892469,original{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="9008892469?profile=original" /></a>This is the <b>first time that Costa Rica has been included</b> in the GGEI.</p><p> </p><p>“Covered for the first time, Costa Rica records an impressive result, ranking third behind Sweden and Norway on performance and in the top 15 for perceptions overall, a notable accomplishment for such a small country,” states the GGEI. “Costa Rica’s overall top result on the performance measure is driven by impressive results on both the Efficiency Sectors and Environment and Natural Capital dimensions, making it one of only a few countries to achieve such strong results in both areas.”</p><p> </p><p><b>Costa Rica</b> is the <b>top ranked country</b> <b>in green tourism</b> in terms of performance in the five areas assessed by the GGEI, the report notes.</p><p> </p><p><b><a href="http://www.enchanting-costarica.com/costa-rica-2/does-real-eco-tourism-exist-in-costa-rica/" target="_blank">Ecotourism</a> or green tourism</b>, also called sustainable travel, is extremely important in Costa Rica. <b><a href="http://www.nicuesalodge.com/" target="_blank">Playa Nicuesa Rainforest Lodge</a></b> is a leading hotel in <a href="http://www.nicuesalodge.com/about-playa-nicuesa/our-philosophy-of-sustainability/" target="_blank">sustainable travel in Costa Rica</a>. The<b> <a href="http://www.nicuesalodge.com/costa-rica-eco-lodge-rates-packages/" target="_blank">Costa Rica rainforest lodge</a> by the <a href="http://www.nicuesalodge.com/about-playa-nicuesa/getting-here/" target="_blank">Osa Peninsula</a></b> is one of only three dozen hotels in Costa Rica that have received the <b>highest rating</b> in the<b> <a href="http://sustainable-tourism.co.cr/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=3&Itemid=8&lang=en" target="_blank">Certification for Sustainable Tourism Program</a> (CST)</b>.</p><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008892857,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img width="350" class="align-left" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008892857,original{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="9008892857?profile=original" /></a> </p><p>Located on a 165-acre private preserve in <b>southern Costa Rica,</b> Playa Nicuesa Rainforest Lodge is bordered by the <a href="http://www.nicuesalodge.com/remarkable-rainforest-of-dreams-in-southern-costa-rica/" target="_blank">Piedras Blancas National Park</a> and the pristine <a href="http://www.nicuesalodge.com/about-playa-nicuesa/exotic-destination/" target="_blank">Golfo Dulce</a> (Sweet Gulf) across from the <b>Osa Peninsula</b>. The region is a critical habitat for <b>migrating <a href="http://www.nicuesalodge.com/having-a-whale-of-a-time-at-playa-nicuesa-rainforest-lodge-in-costa-rica/" target="_blank">Pacific Humpback Whales</a></b>, hammerhead sharks, dolphins, sea turtles, <a href="http://www.nicuesalodge.com/see-scarlet-macaws-on-a-nicuesa-lodge-rainforest-adventure/" target="_blank">Scarlet Macaws</a> and <b>jaguars</b>.</p><p> </p><p>The lodge is offering <a href="http://www.nicuesalodge.com/green-season-2014/" target="_blank">Green season specials</a> through Dec. 15, 2014.</p><p> </p><p><b>Article by Shannon Farley</b></p><p> </p></div>Does eco-tourism really exist in Costa Rica?https://tripatini.com/profiles/blogs/does-eco-tourism-really-exist-in-costa-rica2014-09-10T21:16:37.000Z2014-09-10T21:16:37.000ZShannon Farleyhttps://tripatini.com/members/ShannonFarley<div><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008873474,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img width="500" class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008873474,original{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="9008873474?profile=original" /></a>What does <b>eco-tourism</b> and being <b>sustainable</b> really mean? Is that just recycling the trash or turning off a few lights?</p><p> </p><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008873680,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-right" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008873680,original{{/staticFileLink}}" width="141" alt="9008873680?profile=original" /></a>At <strong><a href="http://www.nicuesalodge.com/" target="_blank">Playa Nicuesa Rainforest Lodge in Costa Rica</a></strong>, sustainability means much more. The <a href="http://www.nicuesalodge.com/costa-rica-eco-lodge-rates-packages/" target="_blank">Costa Rica rainforest lodge</a> is one of only three dozen hotels in Costa Rica that have received the <b>highest rating of Five Leaves</b> in the <b><a href="http://sustainable-tourism.co.cr/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=3&Itemid=8&lang=en" target="_blank">Certification for Sustainable Tourism Program</a> (CST)</b>.</p><p> </p><p>Created by the Costa Rican Tourism Board (ICT), the <b>CST program</b> <b>rates and certifies tourism businesses</b> based on their compliance with natural, cultural and social resource management. <strong>CST</strong> <b>consists of five</b> <strong>levels, called “Leaves”;</strong> <b>Level five,</b> or <b>Five Leaves</b>, signifies that the company is considered “<b>outstanding in terms of sustainability</b>.”</p><p> </p><p>“Our goal is to provide guests with an experience that they will always remember fondly: Excellence, friendly service, high-end accommodations, educational opportunities and unique, well-run adventure activities, and to provide this experience while operating the lodge in the most environmentally-friendly manner possible,” explained Playa Nicuesa owners, Michael and Donna Butler.</p><p> </p><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008817255,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img width="350" class="align-left" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008817255,original{{/staticFileLink}}" height="251" alt="9008817255?profile=original" /></a>The <b>extraordinary <a href="http://www.nicuesalodge.com/about-playa-nicuesa/our-philosophy-of-sustainability/" target="_blank">Costa Rica eco-lodge</a></b> was <strong>designed in harmony with the environment</strong> constructed from naturally fallen trees and recycled materials. Immersed in the dense tropical rainforest bordering the <a href="http://www.enchanting-costarica.com/destinations/jaguars-and-monkeys-and-whales-on-osa-peninsula-costa-rica/" target="_blank">Piedras Blancas National Park</a> and the pristine <b>Golfo Dulce</b> (Sweet Gulf) in <b>southern Costa Rica</b>, Playa Nicuesa Rainforest Lodge is located on a 165-acre private preserve. Adding to its uniqueness, the <a href="http://www.nicuesalodge.com/about-playa-nicuesa/getting-here/" target="_blank">only way to get there is by boat</a> across the pristine waters of the Golfo Dulce from either <b>Golfito</b> or <b>Puerto Jimenez</b>.</p><p></p><p>“We traveled all over Costa Rica and other parts of Central America to find and create a special place where one can intimately experience the natural world of both the tropical rainforest and the Pacific Ocean,” expounded the Costa Rica rainforest lodge owners. “Our plan was to create a place that <strong>offers the <a href="http://www.nicuesalodge.com/accommodations/" target="_blank">comfort of a lodge</a> and the <a href="http://www.nicuesalodge.com/activities/" target="_blank">activities</a> and diversity of an adventure tour</strong>.”</p><p></p><p>The area is part of a <b>giant conservation area</b> including the world-famous <b>Corcovado National Park</b> on the <b>Osa Peninsula</b>. The unique <b>tropical fjord of Golfo Dulce</b> is a critical habitat for <a href="http://www.nicuesalodge.com/having-a-whale-of-a-time-at-playa-nicuesa-rainforest-lodge-in-costa-rica/" target="_blank">migrating Pacific Humpback Whales</a>, and resident and migratory communities of dolphins and sea turtles.</p><p> </p><p><b><a href="http://www.nicuesalodge.com/about-playa-nicuesa/our-philosophy-of-sustainability/" target="_blank">Playa Nicuesa sustainability</a> highlights:<a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008874257,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img width="300" class="align-right" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008874257,original{{/staticFileLink}}" height="307" alt="9008874257?profile=original" /></a></b></p><ul><li> Lodge buildings are located on less than 2% of property – 98% is a private protected area.</li><li>Used recycled construction materials, such as: roof tiles on the lodge and cabins made from recycled plastics, including banana bags.</li><li>Wood came from naturally fallen trees, permitted by the government to be pulled out of the forest by oxen, or from farmed trees.</li><li>Electricity is provided by solar energy. Panels are located on main lodge structure. Back-up generator runs on recycled vegetable oil.</li><li>Solar drying room used to dry all of the lodge wash.</li><li>Hot water is provided by on-demand propane which means that the propane is used only when the hot water faucet is turned on.</li><li>Received the Ecological Blue Flag Award for clean beaches.</li></ul><p> </p><p><b>Article by Shannon Farley</b></p></div>Does real eco-tourism exist in Costa Rica?https://tripatini.com/profiles/blogs/does-real-eco-tourism-exist-in-costa-rica2014-09-04T22:08:52.000Z2014-09-04T22:08:52.000ZDanny Solano Alvarezhttps://tripatini.com/members/DannySolanoAlvarez<div><p style="text-align:justify;"><a target="_blank" href="http://www.nicuesalodge.com/about-playa-nicuesa/our-philosophy-of-sustainability/"><img class="align-left" src="http://www.enchanting-costarica.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/Trails-Playa-Nicuesa-1-225x300.jpg?width=225" width="225" alt="Trails-Playa-Nicuesa-1-225x300.jpg?width=225" /></a>There is a lot of talk in travel about <b>eco-tourism</b> and being <b>sustainable</b>. But what does that really mean? Is that simply turning off a few lights, not wasting water and recycling the trash?</p><p style="text-align:justify;">According to the <a title="United Nations on sustainable development" href="http://sustainabledevelopment.un.org/" target="_blank"><b>United Nations</b></a>, sustainability is “meeting the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.” <b><a class="zem_slink" title="Costa Rica" href="http://maps.google.com/maps?ll=9.93333333333,-84.0833333333&spn=10.0,10.0&q=9.93333333333,-84.0833333333%20(Costa%20Rica)&t=h" target="_blank">Costa Rica</a> pioneered sustainable tourism</b> over the past decade through its <b><a title="Certification for Sustainable Tourism in Costa Rica" href="http://sustainable-tourism.co.cr/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=3&Itemid=8&lang=en" target="_blank">Certification for Sustainable Tourism Program</a> (CST)</b>, validated as a global model by the <a class="zem_slink" title="United Nations" href="http://www.un.org/" target="_blank">United Nations</a>.</p><p style="text-align:justify;">Created by the <a title="Costa Rican Tourism Board ICT" href="www.visitcostarica.com" target="_blank">Costa Rican Tourism Board</a> (ICT), the <b>CST program</b> <b>rates and certifies tourism businesses</b> based on their compliance with natural, cultural and social resource management. <strong>CST</strong> <b>consists of five</b> <strong>levels, called “Leaves”;</strong> <b>Level five,</b> or <b>Five Leaves</b>, signifies that the company is considered “<b>outstanding in terms of sustainability</b>.” The rating process can take more than a year to complete, with frequent inspections and evaluations, and the <b>highest levels are very difficult to obtain</b>.</p><p style="text-align:justify;"><b><a target="_blank" href="http://www.nicuesalodge.com/"><img class="align-right" src="http://www.enchanting-costarica.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/Beach-at-Playa-Nicuesa-05-300x225.jpg?width=300" width="300" alt="Beach-at-Playa-Nicuesa-05-300x225.jpg?width=300" /></a>Playa Nicuesa Rainforest Lodge</b> is one of only three dozen hotels in Costa Rica that have received the <b>highest rating for sustainability of Five Leaves</b>. The <b>extraordinary <a title="Costa Rica eco lodge Playa Nicuesa" href="http://www.nicuesalodge.com/about-playa-nicuesa/exotic-destination/" target="_blank">Costa Rica eco-lodge</a></b> was <strong>constructed in harmony with the environment</strong> from naturally fallen trees and recycled materials. A true <a title="Rainforest lodge in Costa Rica, Playa Nicuesa" href="http://www.nicuesalodge.com/accommodations/" target="_blank"><b>Costa Rica rainforest lodge</b></a>, it is located on a 165-acre private preserve in the dense tropical rainforest bordering the <a title="Piedras Blancas National Park, Costa Rica" href="http://www.enchanting-costarica.com/destinations/jaguars-and-monkeys-and-whales-on-osa-peninsula-costa-rica/" target="_blank"><b>Piedras Blancas National Park</b></a> and the pristine <a title="Humpback whales in Golfo Dulce Costa Rica" href="http://www.nicuesalodge.com/having-a-whale-of-a-time-at-playa-nicuesa-rainforest-lodge-in-costa-rica/" target="_blank"><b>Golfo Dulce</b></a> (Sweet Gulf) by the <a title="Playa Nicuesa by the Osa Peninsula, Costa Rica" href="http://www.nicuesalodge.com/about-playa-nicuesa/getting-here/" target="_blank"><b>Osa Peninsula</b></a> in <b>southern Costa Rica</b>. Since the <b>only way to get there is by boat</b> across the pristine waters of the <a class="zem_slink" title="Gulf of Dulce" href="http://maps.google.com/maps?ll=8.58333333333,-83.2666666667&spn=0.1,0.1&q=8.58333333333,-83.2666666667%20(Gulf%20of%20Dulce)&t=h" target="_blank">Golfo Dulce</a> from either the towns of <b><a class="zem_slink" title="Golfito" href="http://maps.google.com/maps?ll=8.6343158,-83.161869&spn=0.1,0.1&q=8.6343158,-83.161869%20(Golfito)&t=h" target="_blank">Golfito</a></b> or <b><a class="zem_slink" title="Puerto Jiménez" href="http://maps.google.com/maps?ll=8.55,-83.3166666667&spn=0.1,0.1&q=8.55,-83.3166666667%20(Puerto%20Jim%C3%A9nez)&t=h" target="_blank">Puerto Jimenez</a></b>, you can imagine how difficult it was to build.</p><p style="text-align:justify;">“We traveled all over Costa Rica and other parts of Central America to find and create a special place where one can intimately experience the natural world of both the tropical rainforest and the Pacific Ocean,” explained Playa Nicuesa owners, Michael and Donna Butler. “Our plan was to create a place that <strong>offers the <a title="Playa Nicuesa Rainforest Lodge in Costa Rica" href="http://www.nicuesalodge.com/costa-rica-eco-lodge-rates-packages/" target="_blank">comfort of a lodge</a> and the activities and diversity of an adventure tour</strong>.”</p><p style="text-align:justify;"><b><a title="Playa Nicuesa philosophy of sustainability in Costa Rica" href="http://www.nicuesalodge.com/about-playa-nicuesa/our-philosophy-of-sustainability/" target="_blank">Playa Nicuesa sustainability</a> highlights:</b></p><ul style="text-align:justify;"><li>Lodge buildings are located on less than 2% of property – 98% is a <strong>private protected area</strong>.<a target="_blank" href="http://www.nicuesalodge.com/"><img class="align-left" src="http://www.enchanting-costarica.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/Playa-Nicuesa-bungalow-300x201.jpg?width=300" width="300" alt="Playa-Nicuesa-bungalow-300x201.jpg?width=300" /></a></li><li>Used <strong>recycled construction materials</strong>, such as: roof tiles on the lodge and cabins made from recycled plastics, including banana bags.</li><li><strong>Wood</strong> came from naturally fallen trees, permitted by the government to be pulled out of the forest by oxen, or from farmed trees.</li><li>Electricity is provided by <strong>solar energy</strong>. Panels are located on main lodge structure. Back-up generator runs on recycled vegetable oil.</li><li><strong>Solar drying room</strong> used to dry all of the lodge wash.</li><li><strong>Hot water</strong> is provided by on-demand propane which means that the propane is used only when the hot water faucet is turned on.</li><li>Received the <strong>Ecological Blue Flag Award</strong> for clean beaches.</li></ul><p style="text-align:justify;">Check out Playa Nicuesa Rainforest Lodge <b>“<a title="Green season specials at Playa Nicuesa Rainforest Lodge" href="http://www.nicuesalodge.com/green-season-2014/" target="_blank">Green Season Specials</a>”</b> for adventure, nature, yoga, relaxation and comfort at <b>great prices through Sept. 30, 2014.</b></p><p style="text-align:justify;"><b>Article by <a title="Follow writer Shannon Farley on Google+" href="https://plus.google.com/u/0/+ShannonFarley/posts" target="_blank">Shannon Farley</a></b></p><p><a href="http://es.pinterest.com/pin/create/extension/"></a></p></div>Kayaking in Costa Rica's mangroveshttps://tripatini.com/profiles/blogs/kayaking-in-costa-rica-s-mangroves2014-04-21T17:00:00.000Z2014-04-21T17:00:00.000ZShannon Farleyhttps://tripatini.com/members/ShannonFarley<div><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008837865,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img width="300" class="align-right" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008837865,original{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="9008837865?profile=original" /></a>One of my most <strong>favorite <a href="http://www.nicuesalodge.com/activities/ocean-eco-adventures/" target="_blank">tours</a> at <a href="http://www.nicuesalodge.com/" target="_blank">Playa Nicuesa Rainforest Lodge</a> in Costa Rica</strong> is to go <strong>kayaking in the mangrove estuary at the Esquinas River</strong>, and then <strong>snorkeling in Golfo Dulce</strong>.</p><p> </p><p>There is a <strong>magic in peacefully gliding along in a kayak</strong>; the only sounds coming from small splashes of kayak paddles sliding through the water, the songs of birds, and the occasional explosion of noise from rainforest insects. <strong>Tangled mangrove roots</strong> stretch down into silty water like tentacles, while multicolored crabs skitter along the dank wood. <strong>Sunshine lights up lime green water</strong> reflecting dense green vegetation.</p><p> </p><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008838682,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img width="200" class="align-left" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008838682,original{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="9008838682?profile=original" /></a>If you stay alert, you may spot the bumpy snout and eyes of a partly-submerged <strong>caiman or crocodile</strong>. Or you may see a <strong>rainbow boa</strong> curled around a tree branch, or catch sight of <strong>white-faced, spider or squirrel monkeys</strong> swinging through the trees. <strong>Birds are plentiful</strong>, so you will surely see snowy white egrets, ibis, toucans, Scarlet Macaws, any number of kingfishers and herons, multitudes of shore birds at low tide, and maybe a low tree splashed pink with Roseate Spoonbills.</p><p> </p><p>From Playa Nicuesa Rainforest Lodge, you travel by boat along the coast <a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008839066,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img width="250" class="align-right" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008839066,original{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="9008839066?profile=original" /></a>further up into the <strong>Golfo Dulce</strong> (Sweet Gulf) <strong>to get to the Esquinas River</strong> (meaning “corner” river in Spanish). Kayaks will be towed behind the boat until you reach the river. The <strong>Esquinas River is a tidal river</strong>, meaning the water level is fuller at high tide and lower as the tide pulls the river out into the Gulf. You will always <strong>kayak with the current</strong> to make paddling easier, so depending on the tides depends on whether you start kayaking upstream or downstream. Besides kayaking in the main river, you will explore small tributaries amid the mangroves.</p><p> </p><p>After an hour or more of kayaking, you will board the boat once again to travel back out into the Gulf to a prime <strong>snorkeling spot</strong>. <strong>Right off the coast, there are many small coral reefs</strong> housing masses of brightly colored tropical fish and other marine life. <strong>The Gulf water is warm, calm and usually crystal clear</strong>.</p><p> </p><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008839077,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img width="250" class="align-left" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008839077,original{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="9008839077?profile=original" /></a>On the way back to Playa Nicuesa, watch for <strong>playful dolphins, sting rays and sea turtles in the water</strong>. In September, you might see <a href="http://enchanting-costarica.com/activities/humpback-whale-watching-season-starts-in-costa-rica/" target="_blank">migrating Humpback Whales</a> that come into the Golfo Dulce to breed and give birth.</p><p> </p><p><strong>Playa Nicuesa Rainforest Lodge is an environmentally <a href="http://www.nicuesalodge.com/about-playa-nicuesa/our-philosophy-of-sustainability/conserving-the-osa-region/" target="_blank">sustainable eco-lodge</a> by the</strong> <a href="http://www.nicuesalodge.com/about-playa-nicuesa/getting-here/" target="_blank">Osa Peninsula</a>. The <a href="http://www.nicuesalodge.com/about-playa-nicuesa/exotic-destination/" target="_blank">award-winning eco-lodge</a> offers family vacations, honeymoon trips, nature and adventure vacations, and <a href="http://www.nicuesalodge.com/yoga-and-wellness-nicuesa-lodge/" target="_blank">yoga classes and retreats</a>.</p><p> </p><p><strong>Article by Shannon Farley</strong></p></div>