Category Archives: World travel

Exploring Central Costa Rica

We spent a couple of days hanging out on the beach, cooking fresh seafood and making daily trips to the grocery store.  It was time for us to travel inland towards the Arenal Volcano, La Fortuna Waterfall and spend a night at Tabacon Hot Springs.  Our route took us northwest up the coast where we would make a quick stop in Jaco before making the trek towards our first stop at the waterfall.  We crossed the bridge saying goodbye to the alligators before stopping at the market for some road snacks then hopped on route 34 passing quaint little coastal towns along the way.

La Fortuna was an impressive 200 feet tall and we couldn’t wait to see one of Costa Rica’s most beautiful waterfalls.  The roar of the falls could be heard before we reached this magnificent cascade.  This spectacular force of nature is one of the most popular sites in Central America.  It didn’t take us long to descend the steps to the rocky base but took note that somehow we would have to make our way back the way we came down.

We had packed a picnic, so we found a space to admire the waterfall and the incredible mist that called us to take a swim.  I couldn’t help but test out the water, but even in the tropics, I was surprised the water was so cold and decided against jumping in.

It was difficult to break away from this magical spot, but we wanted to hike up to the Arenal Volcano where we would find several viewpoints and scenic lookouts.  The national park is the second most visited in the country and for so many reasons.  This was once the most active volcano in Costa Rica, but it has remained dormant since 2010.  The last time Arenal exploded was 1968 which destroyed the towns of Tabacon and Pueblo Nuevo.   At the time of my visit in 2006, there were rumors that the top could blow off at any moment, but we decided not to let that stop us.

I was pleasantly surprised that there were only two trails and that they were so short with the maximum length measuring 2.1 miles.  Hikers can pass through lava beds from blasts from the volcano’s past and capture scenic views of Lake Arenal.

While the hike in the park has a beautiful scenic area we decided to visit the Arenal Observatory for views of the volcano and lake.  Both were stunning, impressive and worth the detour.

Lake Arenal is Costa Rica’s largest lake measuring 33 square miles.  There are a wide range of activities that revolve around this large, man-made body of water such as boating, windsurfing, hiking, biking and of course spectacular fishing.  Arenal is known for its guapote, a local fish with sharp teeth and aggressive attitude.  I was surprised to learn that the ancient villages of Tronadora and Arenal are actually below the current lake, while newly built hotels around the volcano offer spectacular views and luxury accommodations.

It was getting late and we stopped at the Tabacon Hot Springs before checking into the Thermal Resort & Spa for the night.  Sitting under the grandeur of Arenal Volcano, this gorgeous hideaway is the perfect location for exploring and experiencing the natural pools of Costa Rica. Visitors are not required to stay at the resort to enjoy a day of pampering and can book a day pass.  While the Resort and Spa are family friendly, the Shangri-La Gardens is more private and accommodating for an adults-only experience.

The thermal spa was perfect for soothing our muscles after a long ride in the car and the luxurious bed was the perfect spot for an amazing night’s sleep, and what a restful night it was.

Have you visited Costa Rica?  What was your favorite place and do you have any recommendations for where to spend my next stay in this beautiful country?  I would love to hear from you if you would leave a message in the comments section below.  Many thanks for reading about my journey through central Costa Rica and wishing you many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

La Fortuna Waterfall
Alajuela Province
La Fortuna, Costa Rica
Telephone:  506 2479 9515

  • Admission Fee:  18 US dollars to enter
  • Hours:  All year around from 7AM to 5PM
  • Amenities:  third party tours provide more details;  check Viator for more information
  • Length of Visit:  1 – 2 hours
  • Tips for Your Visit:  Wear comfortable shoes for walking.  The busiest time is midday and early afternoon, so it is suggested to arrive in the morning.

Arenal Volcano
Alajuela Province, Costa Rica
Lake Arenal
Arajuela Province, Costa Rica

Tabacon Thermal Resort & Spa
Noreste de Centro de la Fortuna de San Carlos 13 Km
Provincia de Alajuela, Nuevo Arenal, Costa Rica
Telephone:  877 277 8291

  • Admission Fee:  No charge to visit the hot springs at the resort.
  • Hours:  Check with the resort for hours of operation
  • Length of Visit:  1 – 2 hours
  • Tips for Your Visit:  Wear comfortable shoes for walking and bathing suit for enjoying the hot springs.

Where to Stay:

Tabacon Thermal Resort & Spa
Noreste de Centro de la Fortuna de San Carlos 13 Km
Provincia de Alajuela, Nuevo Arenal, Costa Rica
Telephone:  877 277 8291

Where to Eat:

Jaco:
Los Mahi Tacos de Cholo
Centro Commercial Urena, Local 3
Avenida Pastor Diaz Diagonal a Calle El Bohio
Jaco Central, Jaco, Garabito Municipality
61101 Costa Rica
Telephone:  506  8741 0562

La Fortuna:
Spectacolar Cantina
Meters west from La Fortuna Church 125
Arenal Volcano National Park
La Fortuna de San Carlos 21007 Costa Rica
Telephone:  506 8569 7676

What to Eat:

  • Arroz con Leche is translated to rice with milk and is a popular dessert in Costa Rica. Additional ingredients include milk, cinnamon, salt and lemon zest, making this a delicious end to your meal.
  • Casado, which means marriage which is an interesting combination of meat such as beef, pork, chicken and fish as well as rice, beans, tortillas, fried platano maduro and salad.  In addition, the dish also includes a fruit juice.
  • Gallo Pinto is a mixture of rice and beans with red bell peppers, onions, cilantro and other spices.  The secret ingredient is the Salsa Lizano.  It is a popular breakfast dish.
  • Sopra Negra is translated to black soup, which is the base of this delicious soup.  Included with the black beans, there are onions, peppers, tomatoes, soft boiled eggs and spicy spices.
  • Tamales are similar to their Mexican cousin, but there are some differences, one of which is the wrapping.  In Costa Rica, tamales are wrapped in banana leaves rather than corn husks.

What to Read:

  • It’s Every Monkey for Themselves:  A True Story of Sex, Love and Lies in the Jungle by Vanessa Woods
  • Oro by Cizia Zyke
  • Green Phoenix:  Restoring the Tropical Forests of Guanacaste, by William Allen
  • Monkeys are Made of Chocolate: Exotic and Unseen Costa Rica, by Jack Ewing
  • Costa Rica:  A Traveler’s Literary Companion by Barbara Ras, Oscar Arias
  • The Year of Fog, by Michelle Richmond

Photo Guide for Costa Rica:

  • Manuel Antonio National Park for wild animals such as sloths and monkeys
  • Tortuguero National Park for amazing loggerheads and hawksbill
  • Poas Volcano National Park for its impressive view of the interior of the volcano

Costa Rica’s Jaguar Rescue Center

It was another incredible day of surfing and water sports before we packed up our belongings to continue our journey towards Panama.  We made one last stop at the bar to thank our bartender and host for the last couple of days and to say good bye to the friendly toucan.  We each ordered an Imperial for the road, took a few photos of the spectacular view of the endless coffee fields and confirmed our route for Playa Chiquita.

The Casas del Caribe in Playa Chiquita was perfect for our short stay.  Situated on the beach, we could also reach the little town for dinner, shops, grocery and bars. We were interested in visiting the Jaguar Rescue Center for the day and then make a few stops before arriving back to the house in Playa Palo Seco.

Jaguar Rescue Center is located on the beach of Playa Chiquita and we did not have a difficult time finding it.  The refuge was founded by Encar Garcia of Spain and the late trained biologist Sandro Alviani.  Built as a temporary home for injured and orphaned animals, there were several other native Costa Rican animals such as sloths, monkeys, birds and reptiles that were briefly held here for veterinary care to ensure their health and safety before returning to the wild.

The highlight of my trip was seeing a black jaguar at the center.  Also known as panthers, these amazing creatures are nearly extinct due to illegal hunting and habitat loss.  Seeing these elusive big cats are rare and are protected in the country’s reserves and national parks.

In addition to the jaguars, we were able to see the ocelots, wooly possums, baby monkeys and a few sloths.  I had the opportunity to feed one of the baby sloths.  He was such a tiny little guy and so docile.

A baby monkey had just been brought to the rescue during our visit, too small for human interaction.  He had been found on the side of the road without its mother and a motorist rescued him and brought him in for medical care.  We learned that his survival rate was excellent and that the reserve would keep him under medical surveillance until he was well enough to thrive back in the wild.

We spent a few hours at the reserve, purchased some Imperial, Cacique Guerra and juice before setting up a chairs on the beach.  We had a few drinks before dinner and decided to try out another amazing restaurant and nightclub on the beach.  We turned in early that night because we had a long drive ahead of us the next day.  It was amazing to fall asleep with tunes of Bob Marley in my mind along with the sounds of crashing waves from the beach.  It was one of the best night’s sleep I had experienced in a long time.

Have you visited Costa Rica?  What was your favorite place and do you have any recommendations for where to spend my next stay in this beautiful country?  I would love to hear from you if you would leave a message in the comments section below.  Many thanks for reading about my journey through Costa Rica and wishing you many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Jaguar Rescue Center
In front of Villas del Caribe
Punta Coclas
41001, Costa Rica
Telephone:  506 2750 0710

Where to Stay:

Casas del Caribe
Oficinas Caribe Sur Limon
Playa Chiquita
70403, Costa Rica
Telephone:  506 8976 7543

Where to Eat:

Paradise 2.0 Beach Hub
25 meters al norte y 100 mts.
al oeste del Supermarcdo El Duende Gourmet
Playa Chiquita Limon Province, Puerto Viejo de Talamanca
70403, Costa Rica
Telephone:  506 2750 0544

What to Eat:

  • Arroz con Leche is translated to rice with milk and is a popular dessert in Costa Rica. Additional ingredients include milk, cinnamon, salt and lemon zest, making this a delicious end to your meal.
  • Casado, which means marriage which is an interesting combination of meat such as beef, pork, chicken and fish as well as rice, beans, tortillas, fried platano maduro and salad. In addition, the dish also includes a fruit juice.
  • Ceviche is raw fish that has been “cooked” with citrus juices.
    Gallo Pinto is a mixture of rice and beans with red bell peppers, onions, cilantro and other spices. The secret ingredient is the Salsa Lizano. It is a popular breakfast dish.
  • Sopra Negra is translated to black soup, which is the base of this delicious soup. Included with the black beans, there are onions, peppers, tomatoes, soft boiled eggs and spicy spices.
  • Tamales are similar to their Mexican cousin, but there are some differences, one of which is the wrapping. In Costa Rica, tamales are wrapped in banana leaves rather than corn husks.

What to Drink:

  • Agua Dolce (sweet water): which is sweetened with cane sugar
  • Cerveza (Beer): Imperial
  • Guaro: sugar cane liquor which sneaks up on you. Cacique is the most poular brand.

What to Read:

  • It’s Every Monkey for Themselves: A True Story of Sex, Love and Lies in the Jungle by Vanessa Woods
  • Oro by Cizia Zyke
  • Green Phoenix: Restoring the Tropical Forests of Guanacaste, by William Allen
  • Monkeys are Made of Chocolate: Exotic and Unseen Costa Rica, by Jack Ewing
  • Costa Rica: A Traveler’s Literary Companion by Barbara Ras, Oscar Arias
  • The Year of Fog, by Michelle Richmond

Photo Guide for Costa Rica:

  • Manuel Antonio National Park for wild animals such as sloths and monkeys
  • Tortuguero National Park for amazing loggerheads and hawksbill
  • Poas Volcano National Park for its impressive view of the interior of the volcano

Costa Rica’s Manuel Antonio National Park

Leaving Playa Palo Seco, my friend Melissa and I were excited to visit Manuel Antonio National Park.  About an hour from our home base, it was the first time I had visited the park and I was so excited for the opportunity to see sloths and howler monkeys.  Located in the town of Quepos on the Pacific Coast, the park is known for its wildlife and beautiful beaches.

We needed to find the “Beach Trail” to reach the entrance, so we stopped at one of the refreshment stands before entering the park.  We found a sign directing us towards the entrance, then after passing over the bridge, there was another sign directing us in the right direction.   From the bridge, it took us about 5 minutes until we had arrived.

The first hike we took was the Sendero el Perezoso Trail (sloth trail).  We did not realize that this would have taken us deeper into the park, but we were so excited to see sloths with our guide.  This trail runs parallel to the main trail within the park and we spent about 30 minutes on this trail because there were several 2-fingered and 3-fingered sloths.  Be careful if you find yourself looking up often as you would not want to trip over anything or miss any of the other amazing wildlife in the park such as crabs scurrying along the trail.

The Punta Catedral trail is just under a mile and leads to Punta Catedral which was once an island  I remember when we would visit here in the mid-90s and we would schlep through the water to reach the island.  Since that time, a strip of beach has been formed from several years of sand and sediment build up.  We always loved the amazing views by hiking the perimeter of the island.

The Sendero Playa Gemelas leads to the beach for which it is named.  This trail and beach is less crowded and provides some great tropical views.  It is also a great place to relax for a swim.  The trail is short and connects with other trails, so no need to worry about getting lost.  At the end of the trail is one of my favorite views to see Playa Puerto Escondido.  This is the place where we always find little geckos and I have heard some say that they have seen iguanas here though I have never seen them.

My favorite trail is the one that connects the Sendero Playa Gemelas and the Sendero Mirador known as the Sendero Congo. Although it is a short path, it is where I can find the most howler monkeys in one place,  it is so exciting to see these small little creatures chasing each other in the trees.

While there may be time where you can’t find the howlers on the trail, you may be able to hear them.

According to the park map, there are eleven separate trails. Don’t worry as the trails are clearly marked and posted placards are available along the way.

A visit to Manuel Antonio National Park is always an exciting time, so arrive early and spend as much time as you can exploring the trails, searching for howler monkeys and spotting sloths.

Have you visited Manuel Antonio National Park in Costa Rica?  I would love to hear about your experience if you would kindly leaved a message in the comments section below.  Many thanks for reading about my visit to the national park and wishing you amazing adventures!

What to See and What to Do: 

Manuel Antonio National Park
Quepos, Puntarenas, Costa Rica
Telephone:  506 2777 3339 or 800 280 2597

  • Admission Fee:    $18.08 for adults; $5.65 for children ages 2 – 12; children under the age of 2 is free
  • Hours:  Daily from 7AM to 5PM with the exception of Tuesday.  The park is open on holidays unless the holiday falls on a Tuesday.  The nearby beach closes at 3 and the park rangers will notify the remaining visitors that they will need to leave the park by 4PM, starting towards the exit by 3:30PM.
  • Amenities:  Guided tours ($51 for adults, $35 for children); Private tours ($71 for adults and $55 for children) The tours last for about 2.5 to 3 hours.   You can purchase your tickets through a third party (i.e., Viator) that will provide a guide.  Guides are available to show you around the park.  They will tell you about the flora and fauna as well as show you were the animals are hiding within the parks. Most tours will last only a couple of hours, but should you want to stay longer, the guide can explain how to take the bus back or where to grab a taxi.  Independent guides should wear their badges showing their ICT certification. For 2, expect to pay $20 per person for 2 hours and if they charge more, you can easily find another guide that will accept the $20 per hour/per person rate.
  • Parking: Parking is available at the park and there are several parking lots.  Follow the sign at the entrance and an attendant will assist you with parking.  Remember to note which parking lot you have parked your vehicle. Do not leave valuables in the car, roll up your windows and ensure the doors are locked.  Pay for parking in Costa Rican colones, not American dollars.  Depending on the season, you can expect to pay 3000 to 6000 colones. On your way to parking, look for restaurants and shops on the left and this will let you know that you are close.  There may be attendants that will tell you that you must park in their lot, but this is a scam.  After passing the shops and restaurants, you will see the Super Joseth convenient store.  You will notice a small road to your left, so turn left here and past the Hotel Vela Bar to reach the parking lots. Drive carefully as this is a narrow road.
  • Scenic View:  The park’s animals…the sloths and monkeys in the wild.
  • Length of Visit:  2 – 3 hours to include the beach
  • Tips for Your Visit:  Arrive early before the crowds.  Tickets must be purchased online as they are not available at the entrance.  If you arrive without a ticket, you will not be able to enter.  The park only sells approximately 3000 tickets per day. December through April and June through August are high season, so purchase your tickets well in advance. The website provides instructions for purchasing the tickets and you can select the English language.  The tickets are only valid for one day as there are no multi-day tickets available.  Your ticket can only be used once, which means you will need to purchase multiple tickets for the dates you would like to enter.  Ensure that you hire a certified guide who can point out the elusive sloths.  You should ask for their ICT (Institute of Costa Rica Tourism) credentials.  There will be scammers dressed in park ranger uniforms or fake badges and name tags.   When you arrive at the park, bring a printed copy of your reservation (the reservation number or barcode) in addition to your passport.  Should you not have your passport, you can show a copy of your passport for entry.  Alcohol, guns, cigarettes, drugs and speakers are prohibited.   Set your GPS or Google Maps to “Welcome Center Manuel Antonio” or “Hotel San Beda” for the correct directions.There are three bathrooms at the entrance of the park and three additional bathrooms within the park.  There is one facility where you will find bathrooms, showers and changing booths.   Visitors are not permitted to being food into the park. In 2023, the park added a cafeteria where visitors can purchase sandwiches, salads and drinks. There are also restaurants at the entrance of the park.

Where to Stay:

We stayed at our private residence located at Playa Palo Seco during our stay

Where to Eat:

Rico Tico Jungle Grill
Near Manuel Antonio Si Como No Resort & Wildlife Refuge
Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica
Telephone: 506 2777 0777

What to Eat:

  • Arroz con Leche is translated to rice with milk and is a popular dessert in Costa Rica. Additional ingredients include milk, cinnamon, salt and lemon zest, making this a delicious end to your meal.
  • Casado, which means marriage which is an interesting combination of meat such as beef, pork, chicken and fish as well as rice, beans, tortillas, fried platano maduro and salad. In addition, the dish also includes a fruit juice.
  • Ceviche is raw fish that has been “cooked” with citrus juices.
  • Gallo Pinto is a mixture of rice and beans with red bell peppers, onions, cilantro and other spices. The secret ingredient is the Salsa Lizano. It is a popular breakfast dish.
  • Sopra Negra is translated to black soup, which is the base of this delicious soup. Included with the black beans, there are onions, peppers, tomatoes, soft boiled eggs and spicy spices.
  • Tamales are similar to their Mexican cousin, but there are some differences, one of which is the wrapping. In Costa Rica, tamales are wrapped in banana leaves rather than corn husks.

What to Drink:

  • Agua Dolce (sweet water): which is sweetened with cane sugar
  • Cerveza (Beer): Imperial
  • Guaro: sugar cane liquor which sneaks up on you. Cacique is the most popular brand.

What to Read:

  • It’s Every Monkey for Themselves: A True Story of Sex, Love and Lies in the Jungle by Vanessa Woods
  • Oro by Cizia Zyke
  • Green Phoenix: Restoring the Tropical Forests of Guanacaste, by William Allen
  • Monkeys are Made of Chocolate: Exotic and Unseen Costa Rica, by Jack Ewing
  • Costa Rica: A Traveler’s Literary Companion by Barbara Ras, Oscar Arias
  • The Year of Fog, by Michelle Richmond

Photo Guide for Costa Rica:

  • Manuel Antonio National Park for wild animals such as sloths and monkeys
  • Tortuguero National Park for amazing loggerheads and hawksbill
  • Poas Volcano National Park for its impressive view of the interior of the volcano

Disclosure:   Please refer to our blog disclaimer tab for more information.

Checking out the Costa Rican Coast for the First Time

I remember the excitement I felt when the plane touched down in San Jose, Costa Rica on a beautiful February morning.  My best friend Melissa was going to pick me up and we were going to head out to the beach house in Playa Palo Seco.  It was my first time visiting, so I wanted to see as much of the country as possible, not knowing that I would eventually visit several times.

The open air airport was so small that it was easy to see Melissa as she and our friend David met me in baggage claim.  I took in deep breaths of air enjoying the mild humidity which was such a contrast to the snowy weather I had just left behind in Cincinnati.   I  couldn’t wait to explore this magnificent country in Central America and to experience the local food and culture.

We drove through the city of San Jose because we wanted to try to make it to the beach before nightfall with a couple of stops along the way.  We took for a few minutes to enjoy the architecture before beginning our three-hour journey.

The drive was absolutely stunning with endless forests and majestic mountains.  We drove through coffee fields and tropical plants as our rental car continued its climb heading south east towards the Pacific Coast.  Before reaching Palo Seco, we drove through the mountains on 301 where the road began to narrow and hugged the steep cliffs.

Frequently the scenery would disappear as the clouds clung to the surrounding peaks.  We were happy to finally reach the small town to pick up a few items before reaching the beach house.  The house was not air conditioned so we relied on fans to cool us down at night.  We also stopped by the local grocery to pick up some Imperial beer and food for the next couple of weeks.

We stopped short of the bridge so that we could see the local alligators and it became a favorite stop on our annual trips.  We lovingly referred to the crossing as Crocodile Bridge which crossed the Pirris River.   These bad boys measured over 13 feet long and there were at least a dozen of them basking in the sun as we drove over the bridge.  No one dare go riverside and it’s quite obvious why.

Bidding farewell to the reptiles, we headed west towards the beach until reaching a dead end. We could see a large, abandoned water park to our left and made a southern turn here to reach the house.  By now, we were traveling on a dirt road, having passed a small restaurant, we could soon see our beloved shack on the left.  Across the street we had access to endless beach, so I couldn’t wait to wake up early and catch a few waves.

Our plans were to hang out at the beach for a couple of days before heading back inland and then travel over to the gulf side to Puerto Limon near the Panamanian border.  I had been looking forward to exploring this amazing country, and so far, it has been spectacular.

Have you explored the beautiful country of Costa Rica?  What were some of your favorite places?  I would love to hear from you with any suggestions or questions if you leave a message in the comments section below.  Many thanks for reading about my first visit to Costa Rica and wishing you many Happy Travels!

The Costa Rican Countryside

The famous Crocodiles

A Photographic View of Costa Rica, 2002

Amazing Costa Rican Beaches

Our neighbor cooking us up some Red Snapper

Our beach hut

Cheffy and David Ready to Surf

Costa Rican Beaches

Drinking Beers with our Neighbors

Amazing CR Beach

Roadside Signs

The Sunset from Quepos, Costa Rica

Cheeky Monkeys in Manuel Antonio National Park

Sunset in Palo Seco Beach

Enjoying the Gorgeous Costa Rican Beaches

Flying into Quepos, Costa Rica

Entering Playa Palo Seco

The Gorgeous Costa Rican Countryside

The Diverse Geology of Costa Rica

Visiting the Falls

Melissa and Costa Rican boyfriend, Jeffrey

Dancing the Night Away at the Club

Hanging at the Neighbors’ House

The Costa Rican Coast

Beach Time

Preparing to Enter the Tunnel

Gorgeous Scenery from the Beach

Costa Rican Drive By

Can’t get enough of the scenery in Costa Rica

Getting our Car Stuck in the Sand

Rocky Beaches

Volcanic Beach of Costa Rica

Farmland for Miles

Disclosure:   Please refer to our blog disclaimer tab for more information.

Stingray City, Grand Cayman’s #1 Excursion

The weather could not have been more perfect for our amazing excursion to Stingray City.  We arrived at the pier early to catch our tour boat taking us to the barrier reefs of the North Sound.  After a 25 minute ride, the boat anchored near a series of shallow sandbars. The snorkeling site was teaming with colorful fish and the infamous southern stingrays.

With our snorkeling equipment in hand, we disembarked into the sound.  Carefully shuffling our feet so that we did not step on the stingray’s barb, we arrived in the shallow waters measuring three to four feet deep.   Our guide had brought a pail of chummed squid meat for us to feed the stingrays.  We were instructed to hold our hands flat underwater so the stingray will try to “suck” the meat from our hands.   Before long, we were surrounded by nearly 50 stingrays ranging in various sizes, rubbing up against us with hopes of being fed.  These gentle giants were so friendly, we could pet them, feed them and take photos with them.

Stingrays are known to live 15 to 25 years and learned that several of the stingrays on our tour were regulars.  Some of the star stingrays in the group were “Ray Charles” and “Sugar Ray.”  I was most surprised at how unafraid they were of humans and that they were actually playful, rubbing up against us with their soft, slimy-feeling fins.

We enjoyed our 90 minute encounter with these amazing sea creatures which was such an amazing, educational experience.   If you visit the island of Grand Cayman, Stingray City is a must.

Have you visited Stingray City in Grand Cayman?  What did you think of your experience?  I would love to hear what you thought about snorkeling with stingrays if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below.  Many thanks for reading about my amazing experience at Stingray City and wishing you many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Stingray City Cayman Islands
31026 Seven Mile Beach
Seven Mile Beach, Grand Cayman
Cayman Islands KY1-1205
Telephone: 345 322 3400

Visit the website for a number of excursions that include a trip to Stingray City.

Where to Stay:

Sunshine Suites Resort
1465 Esterley Tibbetts Highway
Seven Mile Beach
Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands KY1-1201
Telephone: 877 780 1110

Where to Eat:

Bacaro
Yacht Drive, West Bay
Grand Cayman, KY1-9006
Cayman Islands
Telephone: 345 749 4800

I could not resist the Salumi e Formaggi Platter assorted cured meats and gourmet cheese, olives, dried figs, nuts and homemade crackers and ended my night with a chocolate martini.

What to Eat:

  • Caymanian Fruit Cake: Very similar to the Christmas fruit cakes made in the US, Grand Cayman also makes its own fruit cake with local fruit soaked in rum.
  • Coconut Shrimp: Grand Cayman uses fresh shaved coconut for this lovely appetizer, giving the dish an irresistible flavor.
  • Conch Stew: Conch is a popular ingredient in many dishes on the island of Grand Cayman. The stew includes this sea snail cooked with tomatoes, island herbs and Cayman peppers adding some heat to the stew.
  • Fish Rundown: Grand Cayman’s fish rundown is unique to the island made from chunks of local fish or salt beef, coconut milk and local spices. The stew can either contain plantain, dumplings or breadfruit, this is a seafood dish you won’t want to miss.
  • Heavy Cake: Considered the national cake of the island, the heavy cake is made from cassava (tapioca) flour which comes from a root grown on the island. Based on a 200 year old recipe, the moist, dense cake is very sweet and is usually flavored with the spices cinnamon and nutmeg.
  • Johnny Cakes (Fritters): Made from unleavened dough, the Johnny Cake is sweetened, baked and then fried as an outstanding appetizer.
  • Mudslide: A cocktail made with vodka, coffee-flavored liqueur, and Irish cream. Often times it is topped with whipped cream from a can.
  • Turtle Stew: Turtle stew, the national dish of the Cayman Islands, is a popular staple on many restaurant menus and the locals use farm raised turtles as its main ingredient. Order a side of rice and plantains to complete the experience.

What to Read: 

  • The Firm by John Grisham
  • Founded Upon the Seas:  A History of the Cayman Islands by Michael Craton
  • The Cayman Islands by Hans Hanau
  • Cayman Cowboys by Eric Douglas

Photo Guide for Grand Cayman:

  • Cayman Crystal Caves:  stalagmites and stalactites; a great place to cool off during the summer
  • Rum Point:  beautiful shades of blue ocean and the directional sign
  • Seven Mile Beach:  pristine white sand for miles
  • Smith Cove: for its crystal clear water
  • Stingray City:  above or below water, you can capture some amazing photos of the tame, super-friendly stingrays
  • Sunset over the Edge Cafe:  amazing sunsets from this restaurant and bar

Disclosure:   Please refer to our blog disclaimer tab for more information.

Postcards from Hell, Grand Cayman

Our plane touched down on the island of Grand Cayman where the weather was a balmy 80 degrees in January of 1997.  Traveling with my friend Cheryl, we were excited to pick up our rental car, check into our hotel on Seven Mile Beach and begin exploring the island,  most known for its spectacular diving.

Located 480 miles south of Miami, Grand Cayman is one of three of the Cayman Islands which is a popular cruise ship port for the Western Caribbean itineraries.  I had visited here while working for the cruise lines and longed for its laid back atmosphere, friendly stingrays and beautiful white sand beaches.

After checking into our hotel, we didn’t waste time exploring the island starting with a visit to Hell.  Staying on Seven Mile Beach, we drove north until we reached the island’s West Bay.

The attraction was surprisingly small, but since it was free, we followed the boardwalk towards acres of black-covered limestone formations.  The rocks appeared to have been scorched from a raging fire,  leaving an eerie landscape resembling a Biblical apocalypse.

Hell’s owner, Ivan Farrington was well known by the locals as he became famous for wearing a devil costume at the site.  Visitors could pose for photos with the  “Devil in Hell”, a picture perfect opportunity.

UPDATE:  As of spring of 2019, Ivan is selling his geological attraction of Hell for an outstanding eight million dollars.  Any takers?

Hell was really not much to write home about, but we thought it would be fun to send a postcard back to family and friends from the post office.  We browsed the gift shop, posted our cards and decided to drive back to the hotel.

We found The Cracked Conch, a nearby restaurant where we dined on unbelievable seafood.  After dinner, we decided to enjoy the pool before a big day of adventure tomorrow.  We planned to wake up early and drive towards the east of the island to explore its interesting attractions and shoreline views, so we will be needing a great night’s sleep.

Have you visited Grand Cayman’s West Bay town of Hell?  I would love to hear about your experience if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below.   Many thanks for reading about my throwback visit to Grand Cayman and wishing you many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Devil’s Hangout
Hell Road, West Bay
Hell, Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands
Telephone:  +345 949 3358

Where to Stay:

Sunshine Suites Resort
1465 Esterley Tibbetts Highway
Seven Mile Beach
Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands KY1-1201
Telephone: 877 780 1110

Where to Eat:

Cracked Conch
847 North West Point, Road, West Bay
Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands KY1-1201
Telephone: 345 945 5217

This award-winning restaurant is located on the West Bay of Grand Cayman offering fresh seafood (namely conch) with spectacular oceanfront views. Order the outstanding conch ceviche, followed by the Pan Seared Snapper served with creamy chorizo, local cho cho, Madagascar beans and tomato vinaigrette. Save room for the Guava Glazed Bread & Butter Pudding!  You won’t believe their amazing liquor selection.

What to Eat:

  • Caymanian Fruit Cake: Very similar to the Christmas fruit cakes made in the US, Grand Cayman also makes its own fruit cake with local fruit soaked in rum.
  • Coconut Shrimp: Grand Cayman uses fresh shaved coconut for this lovely appetizer, giving the dish an irresistible flavor.
  • Conch Stew: Conch is a popular ingredient in many dishes on the island of Grand Cayman. The stew includes this sea snail cooked with tomatoes, island herbs and Cayman peppers adding some heat to the stew.
  • Fish Rundown: Grand Cayman’s fish rundown is unique to the island made from chunks of local fish or salt beef, coconut milk and local spices. The stew can either contain plantain, dumplings or breadfruit, this is a seafood dish you won’t want to miss.
  • Heavy Cake: Considered the national cake of the island, the heavy cake is made from cassava (tapioca) flour which comes from a root grown on the island. Based on a 200 year old recipe, the moist, dense cake is very sweet and is usually flavored with the spices cinnamon and nutmeg.
  • Johnny Cakes (Fritters): Made from unleavened dough, the Johnny Cake is sweetened, baked and then fried as an outstanding appetizer.
  • Mudslide: A cocktail made with vodka, coffee-flavored liqueur, and Irish cream. Often times it is topped with whipped cream from a can.
  • Turtle Stew: Turtle stew, the national dish of the Cayman Islands, is a popular staple on many restaurant menus and the locals use farm raised turtles as its main ingredient. Order a side of rice and plantains to complete the experience.

What to Read: 

  • The Firm by John Grisham
  • Founded Upon the Seas:  A History of the Cayman Islands by Michael Craton
  • The Cayman Islands by Hans Hanau
  • Cayman Cowboys by Eric Douglas

Photo Guide for Grand Cayman

  • Cayman Crystal Caves:  stalagmites and stalactites; a great place to cool off during the summer
  • Rum Point:  beautiful shades of blue ocean and the directional sign
  • Seven Mile Beach:  pristine white sand for miles
  • Smith Cove: for its crystal clear water
  • Stingray City:  above or below water, you can capture some amazing photos of the tame, super-friendly stingrays
  • Sunset over the Edge Cafe:  amazing sunsets from this restaurant and bar

Disclosure:   Please refer to our blog disclaimer tab for more information.

An Afternoon Drive Along the South Coast of Grand Cayman

Another spectacular day on the island of Grand Cayman, so my friend Cheryl and I hopped in our rental car for an afternoon drive.  Traveling from the West Bay, we headed towards our first stop, Pedro St. James, about a 30 minute journey from Seven Mile Beach.

We arrived in Bodden Town at Pedro St. James Historic Site where we parked the car and began the short trek to the attraction.  Also known as Pedro’s Castle, the home had been eerily abandoned and was in its first phase of restoration.  We were hoping to learn more about the history of plantation life in Grand Cayman and made the decision to explore this fabulous residence.

Dating back to the 18th century, the Great House is considered the oldest surviving structure on the island.  The three-story home, reinforced by 18-inch thick stone, was owned by wealthy Englishman, William Eden.  Once a working 7-acre farm, the colorful estate sits atop a limestone cliff overlooking the Caribbean Sea.  It is easy to imagine fields of yams,  cassava and plantains.  It was here in 1835 where Jamaican Governor Sligo read the Declaration of Emancipation, freeing the African slaves living throughout the British colonies.

We decided to explore the house and climbed to the third floor veranda to take in the beautiful view of the spectacular turquoise shoreline.   As we strolled the property, we were surprised to learn that the “English Castle” was not yet open to the public. The government had just purchased the property in 1991 (we were visiting in 1997) to restore the old stone manor and its English gardens.

Today, Pedro St. James Historic Site is complete with memorabilia, antiques and period furniture.  The comfortable theater presents an interactive video providing a historical account of the site.  The 20-minute audio-visual runs hourly starting at 10AM with the final show beginning at 4PM.  In addition to touring the estate and gardens, the attraction includes a stamp room, a hurricane Ivan memorial and a self-guided rum tour with rum tastings included.

A ten minute drive from St. Pedro are the Pirates Caves.  Sitting atop a hill, it was here where buccaneers were said to have hidden their plunder in a series of caverns.  A great, family-friendly attraction, grown-ups and children alike can hunt for the buried treasure of infamous pirates such as Blackbeard, Edward Low and local swashbuckler, Roy Bodden. Installed lights within the caves make the venue a more appropriate excursion for families with small children. While legend claims the loot remains within the caves, it has not yet been discovered.

Today, visitors can explore the caves on a self-guided tour.  Aspiring trailblazers can don a helmet with a light attached and grab a flashlight to authenticate the experience, reveling in their adventurous fantasy.  Fruit bats living in the caves and legendary ghosts said to protect the buried treasure add a level of intrigue to the quest for riches beyond belief.

Our pursuit to locate a pirate’s booty was unsuccessful, so we drove further east towards the blowholes on the southeast side of the island.  We couldn’t resist the short drive to relax along the seashore and watch the waves crash along the craggy coast.  We stepped out of the car, walked among the rocks and felt the salty spray misting our faces.  Searching for hermit crabs and starfish, we enjoyed exploring the shallow pools before ending our day at Morgan’s Seafood Restaurant on Seven Mile Beach.  With an abundance of seafood and tropical drinks, I could not imagine ending the day in a more spectacular way.

Have you visited Grand Cayman? Did you venture out past Seven Mile Beach and George Town?  I would love to hear about your experience if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below.  Many thanks for reading about my “throwback” visit to Grand Cayman and wishing you many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Pedro St. James Historic Site
Pedro Castle Road
Savannah, KY1-1501
Cayman Islands
Telephone:  345 947 3329

  • Admission Fee for Self Guided Tours:  Adults:  CI $10; Children (ages 6 – 12):  CI $5 and Children (0-5):  Free Admission Fee for Guided Tours:   Adults:  CI $15; Children (ages 6 – 12): CI $5 and Children (0-5):  Free
  • Hours:  Open daily from 8:30AM to 5PM; closed Christmas Day and Good Friday
  •  Amenities:  Theater, Wedding Venue, Stamp Room, Rum Tastings, Hurricane Ivan Memorial
  •  Guided Tours:  Self-guided and guided tours available (see Admission Fee information)
  • Length of Visit:  1 – 2 hours
  • Tips for Your Visit:  For a more memorable experience, book the guided tour.  One of the guides is a descendant of the original owner.  Although the house is open until 5PM, visitors must arrive before 4PM to view the amazing video.

Underground Pirates Caves
281 Bodden Town Road
Bodden Town, KY1-1501
Telephone:  345 929 2520
Email: cindy@piratescaves.ky or ian@piratescaves.ky

  • Admission Fee:  Adults:  CI $15; Children (ages 0 – 11)
  • Hours:  Open only by reservation;  contact Cindy or Ian by email or telephone
  •  Amenities:  Gift shop, Pirates Eatery, Rescue Animals
  • Length of Visit:  1 – 2 hours
  • Tips for Your Visit:  Wear tennis shoes because the caves can be slippery.  Advanced reservations must be made by contacting Cindy or Ian by email or phone (provided above).

Where to Stay:

Sunshine Suites Resort
1465 Esterley Tibbetts Highway
Seven Mile Beach
Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands KY1-1201
Telephone: 877 780 1110

Where to Eat:

Morgans Seafood Restaurant
Governors Creek Cayman Islands
Yacht Club, Grand Cayman
Cayman Islands
Telephone:  345 946 7049

I started with the Tomato & Mozzarella appetizer and ordered the Fresh Mixed Seafood Risotto which was absolutely divine.  We ordered a bottle of Veuve Clicquot to celebrate our vacation!

What to Eat:

  • Caymanian Fruit Cake: Very similar to the Christmas fruit cakes made in the US, Grand Cayman also makes its own fruit cake with local fruit soaked in rum.
  • Coconut Shrimp: Grand Cayman uses fresh shaved coconut for this lovely appetizer, giving the dish an irresistible flavor.
  • Conch Stew: Conch is a popular ingredient in many dishes on the island of Grand Cayman. The stew includes this sea snail cooked with tomatoes, island herbs and Cayman peppers adding some heat to the stew.
  • Fish Rundown: Grand Cayman’s fish rundown is unique to the island made from chunks of local fish or salt beef, coconut milk and local spices. The stew can either contain plantain, dumplings or breadfruit, this is a seafood dish you won’t want to miss.
  • Heavy Cake: Considered the national cake of the island, the heavy cake is made from cassava (tapioca) flour which comes from a root grown on the island. Based on a 200 year old recipe, the moist, dense cake is very sweet and is usually flavored with the spices cinnamon and nutmeg.
  • Johnny Cakes (Fritters): Made from unleavened dough, the Johnny Cake is sweetened, baked and then fried as an outstanding appetizer.
  • Mudslide: A cocktail made with vodka, coffee-flavored liqueur, and Irish cream. Often times it is topped with whipped cream from a can.
  • Turtle Stew: Turtle stew, the national dish of the Cayman Islands, is a popular staple on many restaurant menus and the locals use farm raised turtles as its main ingredient. Order a side of rice and plantains to complete the experience.

What to Read: 

  • The Firm by John Grisham
  • Founded Upon the Seas:  A History of the Cayman Islands by Michael Craton
  • The Cayman Islands by Hans Hanau
  • Cayman Cowboys by Eric Douglas

Photo Guide for Grand Cayman:

  • Cayman Crystal Caves:  stalagmites and stalactites; a great place to cool off during the summer
  • Rum Point:  beautiful shades of blue ocean and the directional sign
  • Seven Mile Beach:  pristine white sand for miles
  • Smith Cove: for its crystal clear water
  • Stingray City:  above or below water, you can capture some amazing photos of the tame, super-friendly stingrays
  • Sunset over the Edge Cafe:  amazing sunsets from this restaurant and bar

Disclosure:   Please refer to our blog disclaimer tab for more information.

My Inspirational Liebster Nominees

I extend a heartfelt thanks to bohotraveller for my first ever Liebster nomination!  I am just as excited to nominate four additional travel bloggers that have a passion and dedication for exploring the world and giving others an insight to their adventures!  I now present my four Liebster nominations!!

TAMARA AND DAPHNE at  http://girlswanderlust.com are travel loving Dutch girls that are exploring the globe, documenting each step of the way!  They have a fun approach to their blog and are hitting locations that I find to be very interesting!  Love the site and its ease to navigate!!

BOHOTRAVELLER is more than just a travel blog!  They offer a wide range of services from travel planning and a store where you can buy so cool gear!  Not to mention that they nominated me for the Liebster award, but really, check out their site at https://bohotraveller.com!  It’s pretty amazing!

STEVEN from http://thewelltravelledman.com takes an indepth informational approach to his travel posts!  I find myself enjoying history again with all of his fascinating insight and look forward to seeing what he has in store for his next trip!

Each of these travelers have a passion for travel and have amazing blogs that provide a fabulous resource to current and future travelers!

Congratulations to you and keep on writing your fabulous posts!  Here are the rules for accepting your nomination!

  1. Thank the person/blog who nominated you and post a link to their blog on your blog.
  2. Display the award on your blog. This can be done by including it in your post and/or displaying it using a widget (note: the best way to do this is to save the image to your own computer and then upload it to your blog/post).
  3.  Answer the 10 questions about yourself that your nominating blogger chooses for you.
  4. Nominate blogs that you feel deserve the award. These must be new bloggers (less than two years blogging) who have fewer than 1000 followers.
  5. Create a list of questions for your nominated bloggers to answer.
  6. List these rules in your post (feel free to cut & paste!)
  7. Inform the blogs that you nominated that they have been awarded the award and provide a link for them to your post so that they can learn about it.

I hope that these questions take you back to the memory of some of the most awesome places you have traveled!  I look forward to hearing your answers and have a great time answering them!

  1. What is the biggest lesson you have learned while travelling?
  2. If money was no object, where would you travel?
  3. Are you a person who likes to visit a place once or do you make plans to make several trips to a place? Why?
  4. Have you ever made an unexpected friend while travelling? If yes, how did it happen?
  5. How often do you travel per year? How often would you LIKE to travel?
  6. What is your most favorite place to visit in your own country?
  7. Do you research the places you are visiting ahead of time or do you tend to travel without any plans?
  8. How do you immerse yourself in the culture of a place that you are visiting?
  9. What travel experience challenged you or made a life changing impact on your life?
  10. Please provide your list of Liebster nominees

Disclosure:   Please refer to our blog disclaimer tab for more information.

The Liebster Award: Nominating Fellow Travel Bloggers for their Exceptional Talent

I want to extend a humbling thanks to the wonderful staff of bohotraveller at http://bohotraveller.com/ for nominating me for the Liebster Award, an award by fellow travel writers who in turn recognize other  writers for their amazing contribution to travel!   I am overwhelmingly grateful for the recognition as I had recently started sharing my travel adventures this year!  Here is what bohotraveller had to say about my travelblog:

A travel bug bit her when she was a little girl and her passion for travel increased multifold when she took up a job as Assistant Purser on the SS Vera Cruz. What hooked us to her blog was the amazing collection of pictures from around the world and her coverage of Arizona just blew us off our feet. So before we spill more beans on her, why don’t you pay a visit to her on https://www.thesuitelifeoftravel.com/ and get in touch with this lovely traveler!

Many thanks to bohotraveller for taking an interest in my blog and for the nomination!   It has been such an amazing experience to share stories with others who are just as passionate about travel as I am!  I look forward to posting more information that I hope can be helpful to all my readers with their travels and thank you for your continued support!  I can’t thank you enough for the honor, bohotraveller!  Muah!

Having accepted this nomination, I have answered the ten questions that were provided by bohotraveller and have thoroughly enjoyed this process as it has taken me back to some of most memorable adventures!

Question 1:  Tell us a little about yourself.  And do add something that we do not know about you!
Travel is my passion and I currently work in pharmaceuticals on the research development side of the industry.  I have been an active traveler for most of my life living on both coasts of the United States! I am an insane lover of all animals, especially cats, big or small and have one of my own named Sammy.  When I was in the sixth grade, I won the highest honors for a singing contest for the state of Ohio!

Question 2:  What is your blog about and when did you start? 
My blog is a compilation of travels that I have experienced both internationally and in my backyard.  You can find an opportunity to write a story if you just look for it and explore the places that interest you, even in your own hometown!  My first blog post was published on January 1, 2014!

Question 3:  Why did you feel the need for a blog?
I have always been fascinated by travel writing, and kept journals of my cruise ship life and all of the travels I had experienced since my early vacations.  I did not have the courage to submit my writings to be published, but my friends and colleagues encouraged me to start a blog as a way to keep up with me and my travels.  And voila! It has since become a passion and second career, to say the least!

Question 4:  What is your most favourite destination till date?
Working on cruise ships, this was always the question I dreaded to answer.  Mainly because each place that you visit will usually make an impact on you in one way or another.  But to be fair in answering, I would have to say Bali, Indonesia, for several reasons.  It was my first major solo travel trip with the help of a Balinese friend that I stayed in contact with over the years since my cruise ship days.  Secondly, I was invited private Hindu ceremonies that brought me closer to the culture of the Balinese.  Finally, if you have ever seen photos of Bali, you can see the beauty in the island and the diversity that you can experience here!

Question 5:  What is next on your bucket list?
I have a bucket list that seems to be unending.  This year I will be hitting Madeira, Portugal, Vietnam and Cambodia as well Nova Scotia and New Brunswick!   Next year I have already begun planning my two top bucket list items which are trips to Israel and Machu Picchu!

Question 6:  If you could live only in one place all your life, which place would you choose and why?
I have always been fascinated by the Italian culture and their way of life.  I would have to say that living in Tuscany would be the ideal place for my laid-back personality and love of wine. The only drawback would be that the weather can be cold at times.

Question 7:  What is the biggest challenge that you have ever faced in your travels to date?
Having missed my connecting flight to Venice, I worked with the ticketing agent to “creatively” create an itinerary that would allow me to arrive before the cruise ship for which I was scheduled to embark the next day.   Within a 24 hour period, I had visited five countries.  The route went from Newark, NJ where I was to fly into Heathrow, England and taxi to Gatwick.  The time to reach Gatwick was too short, so the agent booked me on a flight to Frankfurt, Germany.  Upon arrival they immediately provided me a ticket to Paris, France, as there were no seats available for Venice.  From Paris, I boarded the final leg of my flight, finally arriving in Venice, Italy!   I was about 10 hours late from my initial arrival, but I somehow managed, with the help of the airline staff, to make it before my cruise the next day!

Question 8:  You are a seaside person or a mountain person?  And why?
Maybe it’s my living on cruise ships for so many years, that I love the sound of water and love to watch the waves crashing on the beach.  It is such a therapeutic experience for me to smell the salty air and sink my toes in the sand.

Question 9:  Apart from travelling, what else do you really enjoy doing?
Photography!  From family photos to landscape and animals, I absolutely love to capture incredible sights on film!

And with that said, I want to once again thank bohotraveller for their kind words of introduction, the nomination and keeping in touch for some travel inspiration!

For some, travel is an outlet that takes one to a whole new level in understanding culture, seeing the beauty in the world and experiencing an education that you can’t always find at home!  This is what I found in MY nominees for the Liebster award!!

Disclosure:   Please refer to our blog disclaimer tab for more information.