Puntarenas was discovered by Columbus in 1502 and named "Rich Coast" on his fourth and final voyage to the New World. Costa Rica never lived up to the promise of gold or other riches like its neighboring Spanish Colonies. Puntarenas remained a sleepy village until coffee production in the late 18th century transformed the Costa Rican economy. By the 1850's coffee had surpassed cacao, tobacco and sugar as the country's number one export and Puntarenas' port became a thriving business.
Gary and I did something we never do, we took a tour, offered on shore, with about 20 other people. The driver assured us that there would only be 10 people, but when the van arrived there was already 22 people on board. He took us to see the rain forest (which was dry as a desert) and several crocodiles. The rest of the time we spent either driving to & from the "rain forest" (1 hr. each way) with 2 shopping stops. The shipping consisted of wooden statues and trinkets with "Costa Rica" written. I have never found it necessary to have someone take me shopping...I invented shopping! But for the crocodiles the "tour" was a waste. We will never again go with other people to see the sights and shop.
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