In October we were at a friend’s daughter's wedding with Barb and Rich - just casually chatting about our adventure and sail plans to Costa Rica with a mention about them joining us in the Papagayo’s - low and behold - they did …. What a tremendous seven days we had!
As much as we can, we always try and make the first full day for our guests a “rest and regroup” day - letting them get a feel for “boat life!” So after settling in - we got right to the “rest” part and walked up to the pool for a swim and happy hour!! (LOVE that about the Blatchford’s - they LOVE happy hour!) The Dive Bar at our marina is a great place with half price drinks and a half price menu item daily between 5 and 7pm - perfect for retirees!
Barb and Rich - got right in the groove!
Captain Dale wanted to take Barb and Rich for two day sails - but first things first - we had a birds nest at the top of the mast so Rich had to hoist Dale up 62' .... he did a fine job as the first mate and didn't let the Captain fall!
Our first sail was over to this awesome little bay with swimming, beach walking, lunch and a early happy hour as we headed back to the marina. This little spot is so quiet and peaceful - one can usually hear the monkey’s howling over the break in the surf. Perfect spot to just be!
Well ... Rich was watching out for the Captain's safety - but of course the photo says it all!!
Sitting in the perfect spot - sail away!
Our own little happy hour with umbrellas and all - on the foredeck of Companion
Our second day sail was to Play del Coco Bay - a fun little beach and surf town - we just hung out on the boat to get some more “rays” for Barb - she wanted to go home with a tan!! (Remember they live in Florida!) Then back to the marina for a swim before we headed over to the Four Season’s Tico Lounge for dinner … a real treat for us - Thanks Rich.
Four Season's Papagayo - Tico Lounge
Just a beautiful location- on the edge of the Papagayo Peninsula - Cheers to friends!
A real craftsman - their pottery tells their story.
Next stop was the Beach at Carrillo - walking for a couple of hours - beach combing, and picking up shells - this beach had the most amazing spiral shells in tact …. Once again Barb was out in the full sun getting her fair share UV rays!
This is one of our favorite beaches - Carrillo
Over to Samara - to Gusto’s at the Beach for lunch and a long happy hour!! What fun to just people watch right on the beachs’ edge! Besides being totally relaxed!
One happy guy - good food, cold beer, sitting on the beach - having lunch!
Our last full day was an early one - wanted to take them to the Hanging Bridges of Arenal, it is a 3 hour drive from the marina - but so worth it … now Barb is (was) fearful of heights - but she proved that “she could do it” and was on the bridges - even stopping to enjoy the views … hands free at that!! We were all so proud! Once again humbled by the awesomeness of the jungle flora …
Barb is doin' the walk - remember .. Barb is a little nervous - to say the least
It is over 90 degrees - hot and humid -we are about 200 feet above the jungle floor
and she is smiling - and I will quote her:
"I would not have missed this for the world!"
A first for her!!
The waterfall below the hanging bridges
After that challenge, we decided that a good lunch was in order - really heading no where but following signs for this restaurant “Fusion” on the edge of the Arenal Lake - we were treated to a delicious lunch and a gorgeous view of the volcano! Just a fun ride on a dirt/rock rode!!
Barb and Rich introduced us to a new card game - really got the hang of it quickly - enjoyed our evenings playing.
Barb and Rich introduced us to a new card game - really got the hang of it quickly - enjoyed our evenings playing.
The best surprise for Barb and Rich, is that they think they discovered their “new Mexico” -
Costa Rica is gorgeous - safe - environmentally sound, great locals, super food and cold beer! …
They are sure they will be back!
Costa Rica is gorgeous - safe - environmentally sound, great locals, super food and cold beer! …
They are sure they will be back!
Thanks for sharing time, family stories, and life with us on Companion!!
Now you just have to come to the Pacific NW to see the orcas!
Now you just have to come to the Pacific NW to see the orcas!
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