Guanacaste… A Piece of Paradise

Text and Photos by Carla Uribe

Eight years had passed since my last visit to Guanacaste, therefore, when I decided to return, for this years’ Semana Santa, I was expectant. I carefully packed all of the items I needed for my trip: sunscreen, sunglasses, a camera, a small suitcase, and, of course, snacks for the road. I was set to go.

The sun was scorching hot. This dry season has been the hottest in fifty years, but that did not worry me because these were perfect weather conditions for my trip. I have to admit that not even traffic was bad. (This, in itself, is a miracle, since notorious traffic jams are common in Costa Rica.)

The view on the way to Guanacaste is breathtaking. Gorgeous blue-hued mountains rise up majestically, amid lush, green vegetation. It would be much more dense if it weren’t for the rampant deforestation. In addition, crossing the “Puente De La Amistad” Bridge is an unforgettable experience. When crossing the bridge, the world opens up on you, and it is only then that you come to fully understand the magnificence of creation. Guanacaste trees also dot the landscape, opening up like umbrellas in the horizon. A few minutes later, a beautiful sunset of different orange hues covers the already blue sky. After a five-hour drive, such was the scenery as I parked in front of “Villas Flamingo.”

The villas are simple but comfortable. I find them to be appropriate for people who are traveling in groups of six or less. They generally have two bedrooms, and three bathrooms. The bedrooms are air conditioned. Moreover, there is a small kitchen, with its respective dinning area, as well as a small living room area. Cable TV is available. Most importantly, however, especially in this hot weather, is that there a community swimming pool in which to refresh yourself.

Flamingo beach itself is worth visiting. Its white sand and crystal- clear water welcome you. Not too many people visit it, so if you are looking for a quiet place to visit away from the noise of the city, Flamingo is the spot to be. If, however, you are looking to have some fun, there is always Amberes Disco.

New gravel road at Playas del Coco.

Not content with staying in one place, I decided to revisit Playas del Coco and see how it had changed. What I saw was nothing close to the beach I had visited so many times during my childhood. Now, there was a dirt road that crossed the entire beach, polluting the previously pristine landscape. Civilization had triumphed over nature, destroying everything that impeded its progress, including the flora and fauna that had lived there so peacefully years before. This was a sad spectacle for my sensitive soul.

The beach at Playas del Coco.

My last stop was Bahía Pez Vela. It is what I would call the epitome of tranquility. The harbor lies in perfect stillness, and, as night falls, a sensation of empowerment envelops you, with a fool moon doing its mischief. I think I can only say good things of my trip to Guanacaste this “Semana Santa”, namely because it brought back so many good memories and I spent such good times there.

Sunset at Avellanas.

To read more of Carla’s work, check out her blog here.

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