Costa Rica to Guatemala

After emerging from the Panama Canal we had another day at sea before our next port of call at Puerto Caldera, Costa Rica. There we opted to get off the beaten track and head for the rainforest and the croc-laden Tarcoles River. Costa Rica's economy paid dearly when they cleared the rainforest for a failed beef industry. Imported grasses wouldn't grow and even now some cattle appeared to be in self-destruction mode. A small herd was grazing on the riverbank and close to a 70 year old grand-daddy, 5m crocodile. He opened one eye in delight that his hamburger dinner had arrived!!

Can't believe the depth of green in the rainforest. We skimmed the treetops in a sky train, so quiet we could hear the bird calls. In our efforts to find a macaw we found a toucan instead.

We left Costa Rica saddened by the struggling existence of the people and the lack of care for the environment. Nicaragua painted an even more desperate picture. Many of the houses in the port of Corinto were in a sorry state. The children were starting early in a career of begging. All a matter of survival.

Here is a shot of contrasts......

The streets were clogged with bicycles and 'doubling' remains a national art. There appeared to be an unspoken contest of how many can fit on a bike. We saw three but rumour has it the record is six!

How come the women seem to brave the heat and dust selling their produce, while the men relax in the shade chatting, smoking or sleeping??

On to Guatemala and we were keen to see a coffee estate, the city of Antigua, and jade carving. On the way to all these sites one of Guatamala's volcanoes erupted and provided quite a spectacle. Antigua became our favourite spot, not just for its architecture and  cobbled streets, but also for the colour in their textiles and housing.

Again there were signs that it wasn't the safest environment.....

Guatamala not only suffers from street crime, but corruption by government officials is well-known. Our interpreter called them 'gangs with ties'. Sadly again, many people live below the breadline.

Next stop,....Mexico, on the way to San Diego.