In spite of its small size, Costa Rica packs a powerful punch. The Central American country’s remarkable abundance of diverse attributes, including its fascinating wildlife and distinctive tropical environment, are unsurpassed. With emerald-green forests, endless blue skies and stunning flora and fauna, my first trip there was like arriving in the beautiful fantasy Land of Oz. Each day I spent in this natural paradise of a country offered up one amazing surprise after another – magical sites and rare experiences that exist nowhere else on the planet. Indeed, it’s one of the world’s special places, one which easily convinced me that my first trip there would not be my last. This stunningly beautiful gem is sandwiched between the countries of Nicaragua to the north and Panama to the south. Its eastern shoreline is lapped by the tranquil Caribbean Sea, while its western perimeter is rimmed by the powerful Pacific. Considering Costa Rica’s abundance of blessings, both natural and otherwise, it’s hardly surprising that the country annually attracts hundreds of thousands of Canadian snowbirds. One of those snowbirds is Sally Matschke, who spends nearly six months a year on a peninsula in the western region of the country. She bought a house there in a gated community in which she says fellow residents are 85 per cent Canadian. Her slice of Costa Rica heaven includes tennis and pickleball courts and a golf course. “My favourite thing about the country is the weather,” she said. “It never typically rains December through April and I can literally count on guaranteed sunshine. No worries about weather disturbances or grey days.” In addition to perpetual sunshine and a beautiful natural environment, Matschke says that she likes the fact that the place is not overly touristy like many other sunshine spots. “Costa Rica offers something different than destinations conspicuous for their traditional malls, crowded beaches and WONDERS OF COSTA RICA Its lush rainforests and unique wildlife are just the beginning. By Donna Carter 14 | www.snowbirds.org Travel
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