Day 3- Start of Surf Camp

Got into Tamarindo safely yesterday using the Interbus shuttle service. I was originally planning on using the public bus system but when I was informed it turned a 4 hour direct shot into an 8-10 hr journey with 4 different transfers I made the decision to fork over an extra $25 and take shotgun in the smaller shuttle. If I had more time in Costa Rica I would acquaint myself more with the public transportation but the purpose of this trip isn't to live completely on a backpackers budge but to enjoy what the world offers before reporting to duty Oct. 1 for IBM. The shuttle worked out very nicely. I had the opportunity to practice my Spanish w/ the driver and grab a few morning siestas in the reclining front seat.

The shuttle arrived me at my hostel in Tamarindo around 1 in the afternoon (instead of 5-7 in the evening) which allowed me the opportunity to settle into my hostel, watch some Spanish television during the rainy part of the afternoon and grab an evening/sunset surf sesh to remove rust from my system before the start of my surf camp.

Out of every hostel I've ever stayed in (around 30) I think La Oveja Negra Hostel I'm staying in now holds the most character. The place is ran by a few guys from Spain, Argentina and Costa Rica that love to surf. Guests range from dreadlocked dudes to surfers to backpackers from Switzerland and Canada. Attached is a picture of the "Internet corner" to give a taste of the place. Oh and they hooked me up with a private room because they aren't at capacity (low season).

So I settle in and get to the beach to test out the Costa Rican surfing everyone speaks highly of. From te second I step foot in the water, I fall in love with it... Because the water is so warm (83-86 degrees I'd say). The waves are consistent and the hour out there went by quickly. I caught some nice waves and before I knew it, the sun was setting and it was getting dark. I'm not sure what it is about me doing things once dark and loving them (hot springs slide Tuesday, surfing yesterday) but it was really cool surfing in the near dark! It forces you to trust yourself and your abilities because you can't see the board amongst other things.

So that was cool. Went out last night.. Yada yada.. And now I'm about To head out for some more surfing (day 1 of the 3-day surf camp). Huge shout out to my friend / hockey linemate Matt Gellatly for buying my bed back at school and uncle Dave and aunt Renee for the generous gift of $ upon graduation that made this surf camp possible.

All is good in Costa Rica, living that Pura Vida. Hope all is well with everyone reading this, wherever you are in the world!