A golden sun lights up the river as we near Squirres and the end of the Rio Pacuare.

Wow. Costa Rica is awesome. Every day there is a day well spent. Living is slow and easy in Costa Rica. Warm rain and warmer water. Sunshine and jungle shade. Fresh fruit(guanabana anyone?), casado con pescado and gallo pinto. Ocean waves and tropical birds.

Of all the places I’ve traveled in Latin America, the traveling and the kayaking is easiest in Costa Rica. Lack of Spanish skills won’t greatly limit what you can do. Crime is low and mostly limited to property theft – a little vigilance is all thats required. If you’re looking to paddle abroad, or just escape the bitter northern winter, give CR a look. You won’t be disappointed.

These photos are just a fraction of what I shot during my 11 days in the country. More will come as I churn through, along with a story that connects them.

Snowmageddon 2009 led to some flight delays.

Did you hear about this new sport called whitewater rafting?...

....Apparently its 100% safe. Isn't that great?!?

Cacho, Patty & Betsy at the put-in for the lower Pacuare.

Dilapadated shack on Cacho's property in the montains near Volcano Poas.

Cacho leads the group down to the river and on a burly hike.

Riding thermals upward, vultures soar above the Rio Sarapiqui.

Fisherman's shack on the Pacific Coast.

Costa Rica is filled with curious, friendly little dogs. Take-out for the Pacuare.

Betsy chills at our riverside camp on the Pacuare

We stayed here for a night. This was the kitchen. I loved it.