Travel With Jo-Anne

04/02/2025

Thinking of the friends I have made on Santorini during my many visits there during what must be a terrifying time for them right now.

04/02/2025

30/01/2025

JO'S NEXT GREAT ADVENTURE - Alberta
So true!!

27/01/2025

JO'S NEXT GREAT ADVENTURE - Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
I recently discovered another fascinating feature in Edmonton. In 2001, the City of Edmonton, Alberta, renamed 118th Avenue as the Avenue of Champions and installed a 49-foot-tall aluminum bat as part of a revitalization effort. What makes the bat unique is that it actually spins around its base. According to research, there are diving baseball player figures hanging from the overhead electrical wires. When viewed from just the right angle, they’re supposed to appear as if they’re diving for a ball hit off the bat. However, I didn’t spot them during my visit.

The bat, which cost $80,000 to construct, was intended to breathe new life into a street struggling to shake off a reputation for crime, drugs, and prostitution. The landmark is located at the northwest corner of 97th Avenue and 118th Avenue. Interestingly, in 2010, residents began calling for the removal of some Avenue of Champions features, including the bat, as they conflicted with efforts to rebrand the area as a hub for artists and creativity.

Situated at a busy intersection, the bat is partially obscured by power poles and electric lines, which makes it an unusual and quirky attraction. Despite this, it’s definitely worth a visit. At one time, it was the largest bat in Canada, but Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, claimed that title in 2014 with a bat just one foot taller!

25/01/2025

JO'S NEXT GREAT ADVENTURE - Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
I am currently enjoying a visit with family in Alberta. On today's drive into the City of Edmonton, I saw this wonderful building while waiting at a light and just had to find out its history.

The Transit Hotel, built in 1908 by Patrick Dwyer at a cost of $50,000, was an imposing building in the Village of North Edmonton, now Fort Road and 127 Avenue. When it first opened, the Transit Hotel boasted 40 rooms, with many modern conveniences like bathrooms on the top two floors. Built in the middle of “Packingtown” the meat packing district, the hotel was the first building to have hot and cold running water, indoor plumbing, and a telephone. The Transit Hotel opened on Sept. 11, 1908, and was the only beer parlour along the Fort Trail to Fort Saskatchewan.

20/01/2025

My adventure to Costa Rica has come to ask close. I hope you enjoyed "travelling" with me. It was an incredible experience for me seeing the different landscapes of rainforest on the Caribbean side, the mountains, dry forests to the beach on the Pacific. I throughly enjoyed the many different species of birds like the Scarlet Macaw, Toucans, herons, egrets and Caracaras and the cool wildlife like Coati, sloths, caimans, Howler monkeys and iguanas. I experienced ziplining for the first time.....and the last. I navigated the waterways and hiked trails in national parks. I have now gone from 30°c plus temperatures to -35°c temperatures as I am now visiting family in Alberta.

18/01/2025

JO'S NEXT GREAT ADVENTURE - Costa Rica
DAY 12 - Final Full Day in Tamarindo
Well this wonderful tour is drawing to a close. Today was my last day and I spent it relaxing. After breakfast, I walked the beach collecting more shells, spotting sand art, watching surfers and saying farewell to my "T-shirt guy" Marco and his nephew, Jose.

The early afternoon was spent swimming in the resort pool and watching the troops of Howler Monkeys up in the trees near the pool. What a peaceful experience. I just can't get enough of watching the monkeys!

17/01/2025

JO'S NEXT GREAT ADVENTURE - Costa Rica
DAY 11 - Tamarindo Estuary
Another stunning day on the Pacific side of Costa Rica! This morning, after a delicious breakfast, some of us embarked on a serene boat ride through the Tamarindo Estuary. This ecologically significant area is part of the Las Baulas National Marine Park and lies between Tamarindo Beach and Playa Grande, separated by the Tamarindo River.

The estuary, lined with lush mangroves, is a haven for diverse flora and fauna. As we navigated the peaceful waterways, we had the chance to observe the incredible wildlife and learn about this vibrant ecosystem. Among the many bird species we spotted were Blue and Green Herons, a Caracara, a Baltimore Oriole, numerous Mangrove Swallows, Kiskadees, Kingfishers, Sandpipers, and a graceful Egret. Adding to the excitement, we also encountered a crocodile basking by the water, an iguana lounging in the sun, a playful group of howler monkeys, and the cutest young raccoons. It was a truly relaxing and enriching way to spend the morning.

The afternoon was dedicated to pure relaxation, swimming and lounging by the resort's pool, followed by yet another breathtaking sunset and a delightful dinner to cap off the day.

Tomorrow marks my final day in Costa Rica before heading off to my next adventure. Stay tuned....

16/01/2025

JO'S NEXT GREAT ADVENTURE - Costa Rica
DAY 10 - Free Day
What a relaxing day! After a delightful breakfast, my travel buddy and I set off for a walk along Tamarindo Beach. With the tide out, it was the perfect opportunity to explore the volcanic rocks and scattered treasures along the shore. I couldn’t resist the allure of collecting all kinds of shells and pieces of coral—my own little treasure hunt. To my surprise, I even stumbled upon a pair of sunglasses and goggles! The sand was equally captivating, shaped into intricate patterns by the ebb and flow of the water—a natural masterpiece.

We walked to one end of the beach, soaking in the beauty, and then turned around to explore the other direction. Our adventure eventually led us to a charming beachfront restaurant and bar, where we enjoyed a delicious lunch and refreshing drinks. Life doesn’t get much better than this.

Tomorrow, I’ll be heading out on another boat tour, hoping to spot even more of Costa Rica’s incredible wildlife. Stay tuned for the next adventure!

16/01/2025

JO'S NEXT GREAT ADVENTURE - Costa Rica
DAY 9 - A Day in Nature
Today, we embarked on an incredible full-day adventure to Rincón de la Vieja National Park, a geothermal wonderland and UNESCO World Heritage Site centered around the Rincón de la Vieja Volcano. This active stratovolcano, towering 1,916 meters (6,286 feet) above sea level, is the largest in the Guanacaste Mountain Range and a defining feature of the park. Its name, meaning "Old Woman’s Corner" in Spanish, originates from a fascinating Chorotega legend. The tale recounts the tragic love story of Princess Curubandá, who fell for Mixcoac, a warrior from a rival tribe. After her father cast Mixcoac into the volcano, the heartbroken princess sought refuge nearby, living out her days as a hermit believed to wield mystical healing powers. Her enduring sorrow and connection to the mountain inspired the volcano’s name.

The volcano’s geothermal activity was a highlight of the visit, with bubbling mud pots, steaming fumaroles, and natural hot springs scattered throughout the park, particularly in the Las Pailas sector. These fumaroles, surrounded by mineral-stained ground, released clouds of steam and sulfurous gases, creating a surreal and otherworldly atmosphere. Thanks to recent rainfall on the volcano, we were also treated to the breathtaking sight of the Seasonal Waterfall thundering with water.

Rincón de la Vieja National Park spans over 34,000 acres, offering diverse ecosystems ranging from tropical dry forests to lush cloud forests. On our three-hour hike, it was fascinating to observe the changing landscapes—from the moist, densely vegetated rainforest struggling for sunlight to the dry forest, where shorter plants bask in abundant sunlight but compete for water.

The park's wildlife was another highlight. Along the trail, we spotted a Boa Constrictor resting on a branch, a sloth napping high above us, a green iguana perched confidently on a log, and even a turkey roosting on a tree branch. On a smaller scale, I marveled at a Leaf-cutter Ant dutifully carrying a piece of leaf, as well as the bustling activity of Fire Ants and Army Ants. Every corner seemed alive with nature’s wonders.

After a packed day of exploration and discovery, we returned to our hotel, tired but deeply satisfied. Tomorrow is a free day—what adventures will it bring? Stay tuned......

15/01/2025

JO'S NEXT GREAT ADVENTURE - Costa Rica
DAY 8 - From the Mountains to the Beach
Today, we bid farewell to the stunning landscapes of Monteverde and journeyed west to Tamarindo, our final destination for the next five nights. Located on the Pacific coast, Tamarindo Beach is renowned as a prime surfing destination, offering consistent waves suitable for both beginners and seasoned surfers. While I won’t be venturing onto a surfboard myself, it’s easy to see why this beach draws so many enthusiasts.

The drive to the coast was long but captivating, offering a fascinating glimpse into Costa Rica’s diverse landscapes. At one point, we traveled along the Pan-American Highway, an extraordinary network stretching roughly 30,000 kilometers from Prudhoe Bay, Alaska, in the far north, all the way to Ushuaia, Argentina, at South America’s southern tip.

Along the way, we paused for a quick break and were treated to a spectacular sight—Scarlet Macaws perched nearby. These vibrant and majestic birds are truly a wonder to behold!

Another highlight of our journey was learning about the ingenious "monkey bridges" constructed over highways. These suspended pathways help prevent monkeys from being electrocuted on power lines or struck by passing vehicles. It’s a small but significant effort to protect Costa Rica’s incredible biodiversity.

Our route took us through several quaint towns and villages, including Abangares. This canton holds a rich historical and cultural legacy, thanks to its mining heritage. In the late 19th century, German entrepreneur Anastasio Alfaro began exploring the region’s gold deposits, leading to the establishment of the Abangares Mining Company in the 1890s. For decades, gold mining shaped the area’s economy, though not without challenges, as it sparked tensions due to exploitative labor practices and environmental degradation. By the mid-20th century, mining activity dwindled as reserves declined, leaving behind a fascinating historical footprint.

We finally arrived in Tamarindo, where the temperature greeted us with a balmy 33°C. After checking into our rooms, we headed to a beachfront bar for a refreshing lunch and a well-deserved drink. Later in the day, my travel buddy and I strolled through the charming town, indulging in gelato for dinner and ending the evening by watching a breathtaking sunset over the Pacific.

Tomorrow, we’ll be exploring Rincón de la Vieja National Park for an adventurous hike. Stay tuned for more updates!

13/01/2025

JO'S NEXT GREAT AVENTURE - Costa Rica
DAY 7 - Monteverde
It was a memorable final day in the Monteverde area. After breakfast, we ventured to the Santa Elena Cloud Forest Reserve for a refreshing hike. A cloud forest is a unique type of tropical or subtropical rainforest found in mountainous regions, distinguished by constant low-level cloud cover, high humidity, and cooler temperatures. These forests, located at elevations between 1,500 and 3,000 meters, feature dense vegetation such as mosses, orchids, and ferns.

The Santa Elena Cloud Forest Reserve is a lush, biodiverse haven situated at an elevation of approximately 5,250 feet. Its enchanting atmosphere is marked by towering trees draped in moss and epiphytes like orchids and bromeliads. The reserve is home to a remarkable array of wildlife, including the resplendent quetzal, howler monkeys, and countless bird and plant species. While we didn’t spot any wildlife during our hike, we enjoyed the serene beauty of the vegetation and climbed the observation deck for a stunning view. Interestingly, the reserve’s 765 acres were initially leased by the Santa Elena community high school for agricultural research, but farming efforts failed. In 1989, the land was repurposed into a cloud forest reserve, officially opening as an ecotourism site on March 1, 1992, in collaboration with Youth Challenge International, a Canadian nonprofit.

Later, we visited the Monteverde Butterfly Gardens, where we explored screened enclosures filled with beautiful butterflies and learned about various insects. As the day came to a close, we returned to our hotel, where nature provided one last treat—a family of coatis wandered past, offering delightful entertainment from our balcony.

Tomorrow, we bid farewell to the cloud forest and journey to the pristine beaches of Guanacaste. Stay tuned for more adventures!

11/01/2025

JO'S NEXT GREAT ADVENTURE - Costa Rica
DAY 5 - Zip-lining
Today was a huge milestone for me—one I’ll likely never repeat, but I did it! I took on the challenge of zip-lining through the breathtaking Costa Rican forest canopy, soaring along cables stretched between canyons. While the views of the Arenal Volcano and the shimmering lake were said to be spectacular, I was too terrified to glance sideways. Still, I proved to myself that I could do it, even though I’m definitely not an adrenaline ju**ie!

This wasn’t just any zip line—it was the tallest in Costa Rica, spanning an incredible 2.7 kilometers and divided into seven sections. The lines ranged from 82 feet on the shortest stretch to an adrenaline-pumping 2,461 feet on the sixth line, with the highest point towering 660 feet above the ground. Speeds reached up to 70 km/h, and braking (or attempting to!) was guided by spotters shaking the cables.

Despite my fear, I’m proud of myself for taking the leap—literally—and I wholeheartedly recommend this adventure to anyone visiting Costa Rica. It’s an unforgettable experience, even if you don’t have a thrill-seeker’s heart!

11/01/2025

JO'S NEXT GREAT ADVENTURE - Costa Rica
DAY 4 - La Fortuna
Today was full of adventures! After breakfast, we travelled to La Fortuna Waterfall. We had barely left our bus upon arrival when we saw a sloth nibbling leaves on top of a tall tree. Tucked within the lush rainforest, La Fortuna Waterfall cascades 70 meters (230 feet) normally into a sparkling turquoise pool below. However, after the last few days of torrential rain, the waterfall and pools below were quite churned up. The thunderous roar of the water echoes through the jungle. It was a steep descent of 500 steps but we were rewarded with breathtaking views of this natural marvel, surrounded by towering trees and vibrant tropical flora. The climb back up the stairs.....not so fun! La Fortuna Waterfall is a stunning testament to the untamed allure of Costa Rica’s wilderness.

After we left the waterfall, we ventured back into La Fortuna for lunch. Those who have travelled with me before, know I like to try new beers and local cuisine. Today was no different. I enjoyed a nice cold Bavaria Masters and a local dishes called Chifrijo. It is a beloved Costa Rican dish that combines layers of bold flavors and textures, making it a favorite among locals....and me too!

Then we were off to our next adventure of the day, a walk through Mistico - Arenal Hanging Bridges Park. This was an extraordinary opportunity to explore the canopy from above. It is a network of trails and suspension bridges spanning over 3 kilometers (1.9 miles) and includes 16 bridges, six of which are suspended high above the forest floor. As we walked across these bridges, we were immersed in the sights and sounds of the jungle, with panoramic views of towering trees, cascading waterfalls, and, because it was a clear day, the majestic Arenal Volcano. The area was rich in biodiversity, making it a haven for birdwatchers and wildlife enthusiasts. It was a wonderful experience!

It was an amazing day full of activity so time to rest up for tomorrow. It is a free day, so I and others are going zip-lining! Stay tuned....