Day 7: The bittersweet inevitable end to our journey-- (Written by Troy Cami)

The bittersweet inevitable end to our journey. Our last farewell to Costa Rica started well before the flight to the US. We left the resort where we shared memories of volleyball, karaoke, and seeing wild monkeys and lizards. The two hour drive was our last windshield view of Costa Rica.

On the bus ride some of us rode in silence, enjoying the window view or reflecting upon the last week and it's many challenges, experiences, and differences. Some of us played and sung folk music together, rhythmically tapping to it's uplifting tune. Eventually, the two hour bus ride has to end.

Arriving at the airport, we had to bid farewell to our personal driver Olman and our vocally talented guide Chito. As we thanked him one last time and said goodbye, some of us could be heard saying,
"I might literally cry." 

The wonders of the airport; where we ventured around outrageously priced souvineers, coffee, and food. Awaiting our delayed flight we sat in a circle sharing memories of the trip, reminding each other of the names of certain places, and most importantly enjoying our much needed screen time. 

Arriving in America has reminded us about reality. Our own personal lives that require attention, energy, and sometimes laborious effort to maintain. Some of us will continue to still be busy and others will take some rest and relaxation from our fulfilling and surprisingly busy trip to Costa Rica. In this transition to reality, I wanted everybody to reflect about their experience in Costa Rica.

I asked "What will you miss about Costa Rica?" 

Martina: "The fresh juice and fruit." 

Caelin: "The Beach, especially being able to swim at sunset"

Mia: "The beach and it's huge waves. In Connecticut the ocean is this dark green where you can't even see two feet deep." 

Sam: "The nature and seeing Iguanas." 

Bonnie: "The people. The respectful and friendly culture and Costa Rica's simple lifestyle." 

Grace: "I'm gonna miss the fresh cut up fruit already prepared for you in the morning." 

Jamie: "Justin."

Bryan: "You all." 

Hannah: "Mhm, the warm ocean." 

And for me, I will miss the Costa Rican culture and it's incredibly fresh food. 

Farewell, or should I say...

Pura Vida,

Troy