|
Travels both intrepid and trepidatious, around the world and around the block |
The Many Temptations
of a
|
There are four naturalists
on board, each offering a slightly different area of expertise, from botany
to bird watching. They were enthusiastic and had a deep level of knowledge,
understanding and respect for the environment. They conveyed their subject
matter in an informative, articulate and stimulating manner. Nightly lectures
were given to help us fully appreciate the varied ecological habitats
we were to explore the following day. That was also a time for the Hotel
Manager to communicate the schedule for the following day and to advise
us on what to expect. Questions and comments were always welcomed.
Shore excursions were informative
and all hikes were done in small intimate groupings. The hikes varied
in length and terrain, but were generally guided at a leisurely pace and
not overly strenuous (I'm 46 and moderately fit). There is something of
interest for everyone including birders, biologists, and those who are
just curious and appreciate beauty. We saw a band of howler monkeys, white
face monkeys, iguanas, Jesus Christ lizards (they literally walk on water),
anteaters, scarlet macaws, kingfishers, parrots, toucans, and a myriad
of other species of birds and animals, while hiking through the various
jungle habitats, it was amazing. Sailings take place at night so that
you can fully enjoy the hikes and water activities during daylight hours.
Water
activities are varied and include swimming, snorkeling (masks, snorkel
and fins are available), kayaking, skiing, knee boarding at no extra charge
while, scuba diving and deep-sea fishing are an additional cost.
The M/V Temptress Voyager is
a small cruise ship sleeping 63 passengers in comfortable air-conditioned
cabins with private baths, large picture windows, electrical outlets and
adequate storage space under the bed. The crew is warm, friendly, and
professional. The high level of service and congeniality far surpassed
my expectations. We were made to feel truly special (the ratio of passenger
to crew is an amazing 3:1). Complimentary laundry service was provided
two times a week and there is a clothes dryer available to all. At the
end of your daily adventures you can leave your muddy or sandy shoes behind
on the aft deck and have them magically returned in the morning clean
and dry. My hiking shoes have not looked that good since I bought them!
We must not forget the food!
The chefs on board did an excellent job of providing us with a wide variety
of international cuisines that were well prepared and quite delicious.
I was impressed that there was always a vegetarian entree available for
those who preferred it and a seemingly endless supply of tropical fruits.
Wine was included with lunch and dinner. Bar service is available from
9:30 am to late night and, unlike most cruises, all domestic beer, wine,
liquor, and tropical specialty drinks are complimentary. The pina coladas
were particularly yummy. Hors d'oeuvres were also plentiful during evening
happy hour. There is no assigned seating nor is there a formal night.
It was an outstanding adventure despite the unseasonably heavy rains and rough seas the week of my trip. I would strongly recommend this cruise to anyone who wants to explore this remote and pristine part of the world and enjoy the comforts of an all-inclusive ecologically oriented vacation. The atmosphere is relaxed, casual, and intimate - allowing you to sit back and thoroughly enjoy all that the Temptress will tempt you with. All I can say is, if I enjoyed it as much as I did, with less than optimal conditions and a head cold, then I can only imagine how incredible it must be under normal circumstances. It was the perfect combination of adventure and comfort.
The Temptress Adventure
Cruise offers 3, 4 and 7 night programs beginning in late October through
August. There is also a 5 night family program available in June, July
and August, with special early booking discounts as well as special rates
for children. Free airfare is also offered for sailings between January
22 and April 8, 2000 if booked before January 31, 2000.
For more on the Temptress experience,
see Temptress Tips.
________________
Liz Stroh-Coughlin, is the owner of Off the Beaten Path Travel in Los
Gatos, CA. When last heard from, Liz was touring Japan and Bali. She specializes
in family adventure travel and would love to help you take your own Costa
Rican adventure. She will be happy to answer questions about the Temptress
experience, toll-free, at 877-353-9591 or 408-353-9591 or by e-mail at
Lizfamilytravel@aol.com.
IF YOU FIND THIS WEB SITE HELPFUL, PLEASE CONSIDER
PURCHASING OUR BOOKS! THANKS.
The
Intrepid Traveler
POB 531, Branford, CT 06405
(203) 469-0214
Copyright© 2001-2007. All rights reserved.