Perreault Magazine - 60 -
Costa Rica Orosi Valley
VOLUNTOURISM
A new way to travel and give back!
About an hour from the city of San Jose, in a gorgeous, hidden valley (Orosi), rests the tiny community of El Yaz, known for its clean water, rich soil, eternal spring-like temperatures (about 75 degrees every day) and organic, agricultural way of life. Although the villagers love their natural paradise, they have struggled to make ends meet, as even low paying jobs are rare. Most villagers are not in abject poverty, but have no access to hot water, cars, or the quantity of protein sources to which a North American may be accustomed. Volunteer vacationers in this paradise location stay in one of two side by side mountain top houses.
Built in traditional Costa Rican style, furnished with fans & comfortable beds. These include Western-style bathrooms and showers, and hot water. On the 9 acre property are many fruit trees, spectacular views, hiking paths, many tropical birds, a covered Gazebo social area, basketball court, and hammocks.
Volunteers are fed plenty of fresh, healthy, abundant, Costa Rican dishes, heavy with fresh fruits, vegetables, rice and beans, with some chicken, egg and beef dishes. Electricity is available, though on a more limited basis than you may be used to at home.
by Kimberly Haley-Coleman