It was a long and tiring week of nonstop studying, but it was well worth the efforts. Strangely enough, I actually enjoyed the endless studying and test-taking - a true confirmation of my love for the subject matter. Reviewing all the material we have covered thus far made me feel quite accomplished - we have learned a lot of fascinating stuff! The research proposal got done too, though with significantly less enthusiasm. The Soltis Center was a lovely place for all this studying. Set in the middle of the rainforest and completely removed from civilization, we were really able to focus on our studies and enjoy the most gorgeous sights when we needed a break. Here are a couple of shots of the Soltis Center (and the toga party we had in celebration of the end of midterm exams!):
Vacation Week Recap:
After the Soltis Center, I made my way to the Arenal Springs Resort in La Fortuna and met up with my mum. The hotel was gorgeous, and the Arenal Volcano was simply breathtaking. We had a great couple of days by the volcano and got to do some crazy things there too! We hiked on the hardened lava from the last eruption of the volcano, ziplined through the canopy of the jungle and went horseback riding.
After our great time in La Fortuna, mum and I traveled to Puerto Viejo (on the Caribbean coast). We had some fun adventures surfing, sea kayaking and hanging out with monkeys and sloths. The Caribbean food was to die for and the beaches were beautiful.
After a relaxing time in Puerto Viejo, we made the trek back to San Jose. Mum flew out of the airport this afternoon, and I am now back at my homestay! I have another week of classes and interesting fieldtrips here, and then we are off to the research station at La Selva on Saturday! Here are a couple of photos of San Jose from our hotel last night ...
Alrightie ... it's bedtime for me, I have class in the morning!
