Overseas family adventures, graduating with a geography degree and conducting fieldwork in Central America ignited my desire to travel whenever possible. An interest in geology, sweeping landscapes and ecosystems led me to visit over 30 countries, across four continents, all of which have brought me unforgettable memories that I endeavour to share.
One of the most inspiring countries I have explored is Costa Rica. Their national greeting of "Pura Vida" is embedded within their ethos and something I would love everyone to experience. Their connection to nature and focus on renewable energy is what drives the happiness of the country and what I admire most. Whilst I zip-lined across the forest canopy, white-water rafted, visited sustainable coffee plantations, hiked around volcanoes and relaxed on untouched beaches (noting how many scarlet macaws I saw fly above me), I experienced this proud nation who celebrate its rich culture, stunning natural beauty and diverse wildlife.
My views on travel are perfectly synonymous with Audley’s, and that’s why it's such an honour to be working with clients and creating experiences the ‘Audley Way’.
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Q&A with Samantha
What's the best local dish you've tasted?
Costa Rican food is tasty and always fresh and healthy. Travelling in Costa Rica would not be complete without trying its national dish, Gallo Pinto (rice and beans). It is usually served at breakfast with eggs and tortillas. Fish lovers will enjoy the array of seafood of offer, especially 鈥榗eviche鈥�. Make sure to try some delicious, sustainable and local coffee and chocolate wherever you are in Costa Rica. Oh, and remember to bring some home with you, for friends and family to try.
What's your most vivid travel moment?
A recent 鈥榩inch me鈥� moment was during a safari through Tortuguero National Park in Costa Rica. As waterways are the only method of travel I cruised along a system of natural canals and lagoons, spotting the rich biodiversity from the river. Seeing sloths, juvenile caimans in their nest, experiencing the dinosaur-like howl of the howler monkeys, watching a green basilisk lizard (otherwise known as the Jesus Christ lizard) run across water and admiring a family of spider monkeys play among the canopy, was truly incredible and something I will cherish forever.
Which book, film or artwork captures Costa Rica the most?
Hiking, swimming and exploring in the Costa Rican ecosystems can easily be compared to being in David Attenborough鈥檚 Green Planet documentary. Whether you witness the arribadas (the mass nesting of thousands of turtles), immerse yourself among 2.5% of the world鈥檚 biodiversity in the Osa Peninsula, or witness a three-toed sloth make its way up in the canopy from the forest floor, there is so much footage to be captured where the world of flora and fauna can be brought to life and narrated with such passion and a deep understanding.