Costa Rica

Costa Rica is a funny country. It is heavily influenced by the USA – dollars and American English, but if you can get out of the big cities and meet the real locals, the Ticos, you won’t be disappointed.

It’s an incredibly eco-diverse country. If nature, exotic animals and adventure sports are your thing, you should definitely visit Costa Rica.

I spent 6 months there – 3 month alone in the jungle and 3 working at the Butterfly Conservatory at the base of Vulcan Arenal.

The 3 months alone in the jungle were perhaps the most personally challenging and enlightening months of my life. I had very little contact with others so I was alone with my thoughts.

I’ve always been interested in meditation, and this was a form. I was alone with my thoughts 24/7. Aside from the deafening roar of the rainforest (which never stops), I was forced to accept who I am.

I wouldn’t take that time back for any amount of money.

You become attuned to the jungle. I woke when the animals did, slept when their daytime shift ended and felt in perfect harmony.

True, I did get drugged and kidnapped, however, that was kinda fun too.

It’s an expensive country as a result of the dollar, but it’s certainly a unique and life-changing travel destination.