Today on our second day in Costa Rica, we had the fantastic opportunity to visit some of the families living in this remote part of the country and learn a little of the Costa Rican culture. We found the people to be very warm and welcoming, and we enjoyed a taste of their local products: sugarcane, heart of palm, chocolate, vanilla, bananas, and pineapples, to name a few. In both the morning and the afternoon we visited local families, as well as the adjacent tropical rainforest. There we enjoyed great views of squirrel monkeys, yellow-throated toucans, scarlet macaws, a mother three-toed sloth with her baby, and a mother two-toed sloth with her baby. In all, it was a great day experiencing the culture and natural history for which Costa Rica is so well known.
12/3/2024
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National Geographic Quest
Coiba Island National Park, Panama
This morning, guests aboard National Geographic Quest visited the little island of Coco, a pristine snorkeling destination within Coiba Island National Park. The crystal-clear waters revealed an extraordinary array of marine life. Guests snorkeled over a rocky reef teeming with vibrant fish, including parrotfish, sergeant majors, damselfish, and angelfish. A thrilling highlight was the appearance of a whitetip reef shark, the star of the day. Guests also spotted eels and graceful sea turtles, making for an unforgettable underwater experience. After returning to the ship for a delicious lunch, the afternoon was spent on the main island of Coiba. The stunning beach offered a serene environment for relaxation. Guests engaged in exciting water activities, including kayaking and stand-up paddling, taking in the breathtaking coastal views. It was a perfect day of exploration and adventure, offering a combination of vibrant marine life and the natural beauty of Coiba Island National Park.