Sun and soccer--relaxing with the Ticos

SSTers enjoyed a change of pace from the San José city life when they headed for the blue sea and sky of the Pacific Coast. It was a hot day in the sand and surf as the they basked on Playa Herradura, one of Costa Rica's natural beauties.

• Sarah A., Andrea, and Jonathan H. writing in the sand.
• Jonathan L. up a tree.

Near to the hearts of Costa Ricans is their love of soccer. In order to more fully appreciate this aspect of Costa Rican culture, SSTers attended the championship game of the Costa Rican professional soccer league. Despite arriving two hours early, we were still left with end seats! And because we were seated between fans from Alajuela (In the Black and Red stripes) and those from opposing Heredia, we were occasionally showered with slushies. As Alajuela scored each of their 5 goals, the sold-out crowd cheered, chanted, and jumped!

• Some of the group in the stadium.