One of my favorite outdoor activities is kayaking, so when we had the opportunity to kayak in Lake Arenal we were excited to go despite the looming clouds and foreboding weather. There is something so peaceful about being close to the water and feeling so small next to a huge volcano.
Don’t let the weather completely dictate your plans
Not only was it not bright and sunny, it was raining all morning, but we went out anyways, and within a few hours the clouds spread apart and the sun was shining. Don’t discount any activity due to the weather. You never know what you could miss out on or when the sun might decide to surprise you.
Get your own kayak
I understand that some couples or friends want to enjoy the kayak adventure together. I love my husband, but being in the same kayak together doesn’t work for us. While I am kayaking off to the left he is usually looking at something to the right. While I am a 1/2 mile behind him he is speeding ahead. I usually stop to take lots of photos along the way and the stop and go isn’t his style. We enjoy kayaking in the same lake, but controlling our own paddles…even if we do race every once in awhile.
Locals have great stories
We were accompanied by Hugo, a local in Arenal, who had met many passing tourists and had many stories to share. We kayaked across the lake, left our kayaks near the shore and walked around for a bit. Hugo shared stories about his family, where he had adventured to, along with stories of the token “crazy tourists” he had encountered that made me laugh (and feel a little less crazy as a traveler). It was refreshing to hear his love for the land and his perspective on tourism in Costa Rica. Taking time to ask questions always pays off.
Learn how to cut a pineapple
We learned this quickly in Costa Rica. While Josh and I have always struggled with cutting this fruit, Hugo had it opened in seconds and ready to eat. Once slice here… another few here and…voilà! As with most of our Costa Rican excursions, we ended by sharing some delicious fresh fruit.
Is kayaking on your list of activities when you visit a country? What is something that you love to do when you travel to a new place?
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