Santa Elena, Costa Rica
Wednesday, April 23, 2008
Very pretty place but a tourist trap. One thing that I have learned about traveling for long amounts of time like this is that you begin to compare places that you have visited on your trip and don't look at them separately. I'm sure that Monteverde to some people would be a picturesque little Costa Rican town but I have already visited places just like it for 1/4 the cost and four times the authenticity. It is inundated with tourist companies, packaged tours and rip-off adventures. Save time and money if you are backpacking in Central America an go elsewhere. Don't be fooled by the guidebooks (it's all relative of course) and avoid this place. That or go for one day and it will do you fine. Also, steer clear of a canopy tour, if you are debating it, save your money for some other grand experience. You won't regret it! Twas not as gratifying as I thought!
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