Surprises!

So, Maggie and I have been here in Costa Rica for about 1 week. It has been exciting and interesting getting acclimated in a new country. Here are some interesting things we have discovered.

1) Every Meal = Rice + Black Beans

2) The country is technologically advanced! There is wi-fi everywhere, all the students have iPads, and the hospital uses electronic records. In some ways, they are ahead of the US!

3) Lots of plant roots and herbal remedies. These drinks come from fermented milk, roots, and seeds. Most are supposed to help with stomach aches and other gastrointestinal issues. We had a local sit down and explain them to us and we also got to sample! Very interesting!

4) There are tons of markets (mercados) that make you feel like you're in China Town.

5) There are lots of hills and mountains. For some reason, I didn't realize all of the volcanoes and changes in elevation. I was expecting most of the country to be at sea level and flat. That is not the case!

6) Its expensive! The cost of eating out, shopping, and spending money is comprable to what things would cost in the US. I was hoping our dollar would stretch us a little further, but that is not happening so far! I need a Costa Rica Loan! Haha.

7) The entire country in GORGEOUS! There is more area with national parks than any other country. There are beaches, rainforests, tours, zip-lining courses, and so much wildlife. This is where Maggie and I will be going tomorrow.