Instead of diving today, we took the opportunity to accomplish other tasks assigned to us. We were split into three groups – some students remained behind to do data processing, some walked around Cahuita to work on an artwork inventory, and the final group interviewed a fisherman about his personal history and connection with the ocean. Each group worked for one hour and then switched assignments.
My group was assigned to do the artwork inventory first. We walked around Cahuita and used GPS coordinates taken of artwork yesterday to find murals, restaurant artwork, statues, and other elements of art which showcased the unique location we are in. We were supposed to move to interviewing the fisherman after that. However, only one fisherman was available, so we had to change our plans a bit. Once he was interviewed, we only had the artwork inventory and data processing left to accomplish. Luckily, we will be able to interview other members of the fishing community and Cauhita in the coming days.
The afternoon’s session was spent exploring Puerto Viejo. We took a bus from the local Mepe station, and arrived in about thirty minutes. The group split into two – the people who had already eaten lunch went to create an inventory of artwork around town, while the others took the opportunity for a delicious combination of Costa Rican and Australian food. After rejoining the group, we visited El Lanchon, and then went on a walking tour of the city. Puerto Viejo is a very different town than Cahuita. It is much larger and has more tourist attractions. It had a completely different feel from Cahuita and (personally) does not have as much charm.
It continually amazes me just how beautiful Costa Rica is and how any view is only a camera shot away from being on a postcard.
– Bettie