I had no idea how complicated it is to process good coffee. The work is done by hand, not machine - each bean is picked only when it is ripe. But that is just the first part of a long process of separating the different layers of the bean to finally arrive at the 'coffee bean,' drying takes several days in the sun, and finally roasting them in a special oven for their light, medium and dark flavors. It was a wonderful experience as well as an education. The tour included a buffet lunch that was delicious with fresh tropical fruits and, of course the best coffee!
I am leaving now to visit a market.
Sunday, June 19, 2011
Tuesday, June 14, 2011
3rd week
I can't believe that I have started my third week. I have had beautiful weather with lots of sun, and of course, a little rain in the afternoon and during the night. This is a tropical climate. I wear a light jacket if i go out in the evening. Coming from Chicago it's really funny to hear someone refer to this weather as "winter." I visited the National Museum and went back with some friends to hear a jazz concert. It was wonderful! I'm going to a coffee plantation on Friday so I'll tell you about that over the weekend.
Monday, June 6, 2011
Volcano Poas & Waterfall Park
Hola a todos,
!Que aventura! I was so lucky to be able to see the actual crater. As I was taking pictures, I watched a cloud move over the mountain top completely covering the crater. After leaving Volcan Poas the bus took us to Waterfall Park to see Costa Rican "floras y faunas" (flowers and animals). I cannot express in words the natural beauty that is here.
I am working hard in my literature class, however it is very interesting. My vocabulary is increasing everyday, as well as my confidence. I have a presentation next Tuesday on a short story by Jorge Borges. I am fortunate to have such a wonderful professor. My second class is on the culture and civilization in Latin America. I am not only leaving class daily with information, but also with teaching techniques. My professor is an advocate for student-centered classes.
I cannot say enough good things about this program that MLSA provides for students studying abroad. I am very privileged and thankful to be here.
Cathy
!Que aventura! I was so lucky to be able to see the actual crater. As I was taking pictures, I watched a cloud move over the mountain top completely covering the crater. After leaving Volcan Poas the bus took us to Waterfall Park to see Costa Rican "floras y faunas" (flowers and animals). I cannot express in words the natural beauty that is here.
I am working hard in my literature class, however it is very interesting. My vocabulary is increasing everyday, as well as my confidence. I have a presentation next Tuesday on a short story by Jorge Borges. I am fortunate to have such a wonderful professor. My second class is on the culture and civilization in Latin America. I am not only leaving class daily with information, but also with teaching techniques. My professor is an advocate for student-centered classes.
I cannot say enough good things about this program that MLSA provides for students studying abroad. I am very privileged and thankful to be here.
Cathy
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