Sunday, June 6, 2010

CAYUGA ESSAY CONTEST WINNING ENTRY BY RENE & DAVE THOMAS


The following essay by Rene and Dave Thomas won the Cayuga Essay Contest which ended on June 1, 2010. Cayuga asked our Facebook friends and fans to write a short essay about their visit to any Cayuga-managed resort and compete to win a 2-night complimentary stay at Harmony Hotel. Essays were to focus on Cayuga’s mission at each of its resorts to allow guests to Experience, Learn, Connect and Relax. The Harmony of these four elements provides the basis for a sustainable vacation at an eco-resort. Contest entrants were to tell us in roughly 300 words why they enjoyed their stay, touching on each of the harmonious elements. They were also asked to submit several photos illustrating their essay.

Staying at Lapa Rios gave us the opportunity to experience our honeymoon in a unique resort that allows the surrounding area to complement its many charms. From the local homemade chips and juices to the wonderful local staff, we were immersed in a world unlike the one we had left behind.


Instead of a rigid clockwork schedule, we used the rising and setting of the sun as our chronological guide. This allowed for many lazy days spent aimlessly walking and taking in the natural beauty and wonder surrounding us. Being able to leisurely walk the trails gave such a feeling of freedom that it was easy to forget the outside world even existed. We enjoyed finding new areas on the beach and walking to the local school. Everyone we met was very welcoming and took such pride in their locale. That made everything all the more special.


The wildlife of the Osa Peninsula was much more varied than I had imagined. After walking among the trails and jungles for several days we felt a certain kinship with the wildlife. Being able to observe the different birds and monkeys was truly an experience that we will forever remember. It was a remarkable feeling to be seemingly accepted by the jungle.


The ecolodge itself is remarkable. It is a rarity in this day and age to see a business that puts the needs of the people first and puts so much back into the community. We were thoroughly impressed by the compassion and help that Lapa Rios has provided for the locals.


Although the days were long and beautiful, whether on the beach or in the jungle, our five days seemed to go by in a flash. Our stay at Lapa Rios was the most memorable of our honeymoon in Cost Rica and will forever remain a cherished memory.


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