Costa Rica Vacations

Yes, the name of this place does have a capital ‘S’ at the end of its name!  This research and educational center is run by a Belgian nonprofit organization, and includes a jungle lodge and three interesting attractions.  The botanical garden has over 400 native plants, all neatly labeled, including epiphytes, orchids, ferns and various plants beloved of hummingbirds and butterflies.  There’s also a museum with exhibits on rain forest biology and the indifenous peoples of the region.

Unlike some of its neighbors to the north, Costa Rica doesn’t have ver many Pre-Columbians archeological sites.  Here you’ll find one of the best in the country.  A 15th-century indigenous village has been excavated and partially reconstructed, and there are some cool stones and petroglyphs. 

Info:  Just off the main road near the village of La Virgen de Sarapiqui, about 85km from San Jose.  www.sarapiquis.org Tel. 761-1004.  Rooms in lodge run about $82-116 double.