Quepos, Costa Rica, April 2021

In April 2021, after returning from Chile, I took my second trip to Costa Rica, this time focusing on relaxation, nature, and simply enjoying the beauty of life. I chose to spend most of my time in Quepos, surrounded by the lush jungle and the endless blue of the Pacific, and later visited Alajuela, where I enjoyed stunning views and the magic of thermal baths. After a week of pure enjoyment, I returned to Panama full of energy and ready for my next professional challenges.

Quepos – A Gateway to Nature and Coastal Beauty

Quepos, located on Costa Rica’s central Pacific coast, is best known as the gateway to Manuel Antonio National Park, one of the most biodiverse areas in the country. However, beyond its famous neighbour, Quepos itself has its own charm, character, and laid-back vibe.
• The green of the jungle here is truly spectacular—so deep, so alive, that it almost feels like stepping into a different world.
• The seafood was incredible—freshly caught fish, ceviche bursting with citrus flavours, and delicious local dishes that made every meal a delight.
• Walking through the town, I enjoyed meeting locals, talking to people about their lives, and soaking in the pura vida (pure life) energy that Costa Rica is so famous for.

One of the most unexpected highlights of my time in Quepos was stumbling upon a Polish restaurant, run by a Polish-Costa Rican couple. Finding a piece of Poland in the middle of Costa Rica was completely unexpected, and of course, I couldn’t resist stopping by. Sitting in a small corner of Quepos, eating pierogi and enjoying Polish hospitality, felt both surreal and heartwarming—a reminder that home can be found in the most surprising places.

A short distance away, Manuel Antonio National Park offered some of the most breathtaking scenery I had seen—white sandy beaches, thick rainforest, and an astonishing variety of wildlife, from curious monkeys to slow-moving sloths. The park is one of the most visited in Costa Rica, and for good reason—it is a true natural paradise.

Alajuela – Thermal Waters and Mountain Views

From the coast, I made my way to Alajuela, a city known for its volcanic landscapes, rich agricultural lands, and natural hot springs.
• The region is home to Poás Volcano, one of Costa Rica’s most famous volcanoes, known for its active crater and surreal blue-green acidic lake.
• The thermal baths were a highlight of the trip—soaking in the geothermal waters, surrounded by tropical greenery and the sounds of nature, was an experience of pure relaxation.
• The views from Alajuela were stunning, with rolling hills, coffee plantations, and a sense of tranquillity that made it a perfect contrast to the energy of Quepos.

Refreshed and Ready for New Challenges

This second trip to Costa Rica was everything I needed—relaxation, connection with nature, and the simple joy of discovering new places. After a week of walking through lush forests, meeting friendly locals, and indulging in the best of Costa Rica’s food and landscapes, I returned to Panama refreshed and ready for the next adventure.

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