I Long For Another Vacation

On the beach


Checking out one of the many artistic turtle artifacts

Father and daughter

Scenic drive

*Sigh*

Vacations are so much fun. There's just something to be said about getting away from it all, slowing down, and taking a breather. Best of all, I get to take a break. I don't have to cook, clean or do laundry. On vacation, life is good! : )

The last vacation we took wasn't that long ago. After over a year of being stuck on the home front and much anticipation, we decided to take a family trip to Puerto Viejo, Limon on May 1 (perfect timing since it was a 3 day weekend). We packed up the kids, the car and headed out around 9 in the morning. We were on the beach by 2... after we found a hotel, unpacked a little and changed into our suits.

I had always wanted to go to Limon. Ever since I've been in Costa Rica and it only took me three years to get there. Something about the Jamaican influence there has always peaked my curiosity. I was dying to eat some Jamaican 'inspired' dishes and listen to the heavy patois infused Spanish.

The trip was uneventful. All three kids fell asleep half way there. The drive was so scenic and relaxing. And the traffic was not too bad. Although it was hot! It was about a 3 and a half hour drive, give or take... I was expecting it to take longer. We stopped off in Cahuita (because I just had to) for lunch at this beach inspired restaurant. My daughter had the most fun playing in the sand on the floor (well, the floor WAS sand), while hubby and Boobie watched all the little creatures that passed by to say a quick hello. Service was good and the food was amazing. And well worth the price.

After lunch we were off to Puerto Viejo. And when we arrived, I was not disappointed. It was just what I had expected. And it's hard for places to make a good first impression on me especially when I have high expectations. But I was impressed. The atmosphere was so relaxed and chill. And the day was perfect. Not too hot. Our first hotel was pretty cozy. It was just a room with a king sized bed but it had an amazing balcony and a jacuzzi tub, which we all enjoyed. The next day, however, we switched our hotel for a more family friendly cabin. It was better suited to our family of 5. The room came with two beds, one twin, one full. A porch with a hammock, cable tv, a mini fridge and private parking. It was perfect... the setting was so beautiful and serene. It was like walking through the rain forest... not to mention all the little crabs that would crawl out of their holes to greet us as we passed by or run away in fright. And of course it had a gorgeous pool.... a must when on vacation with kids in a place that is notorious for it's humidity. We spent a lot of time poolside.

Highlights included breakfast of coconut flavored rice and beans with the juiciest, most tender beef. Followed by a frozen cappucino at the all natural ice cream parlour next door and later a spot on the beach away from all the crowds. Dinner was coconut curried shrimp with rice. And I cannot forget the strawberry milkshake on Sunday, a delicious send off. There were some drawbacks, but nothing major to spoil our fun.

We tried to pack alot into our short 3 day trip. But once it was time to leave, we felt like we hadn't done enough or spent enough time enjoying the sights. We were leaving behind a place that was slow paced and tranquil. Laid back people, an irie vibe and just a chill environment. We weren't ready to leave, but I'm counting the days until we go back. Hopefully soon.