The Perfect Pairing: More Than Just a Drink

At Nectandra, every element of the dining experience is carefully curated to enhance the flavors on your plate. While chefs craft exquisite dishes, the beverages served alongside them — or by themselves to accent a moment — are equally important. A well-made cocktail doesn’t just accompany a meal or a moment; it elevates it, underlining flavors, creating contrasts, and deepening the sensory experience.

Monteverde, Costa Rica, is a haven for biodiversity, its lush cloud forests teeming with an extraordinary array of plant life. The region's unique climate and geography have created an environment where thousands of plant species thrive, from towering trees to delicate mosses. 

Monteverde, Costa Rica, transforms into a vibrant hub of activity during the high season, offering visitors a unique mix of stunning natural wonders, bustling local attractions, and unforgettable experiences. This time of year is among the most exciting times to visit, with the region’s pleasant weather, festive atmosphere, and seasonal migrations drawing travelers from around the globe.

Recently, we were delighted to invite contributing writer Joy Detlor, usually a resident of Costa Rica’s Pacific coast, to join us in Monteverde and spend an evening dining with us at Nectandra.  Below, she captures her experience, and we’re happy to be able to share that with the Ocotea audience!

Sometimes we embark on a journey in life with a clear idea of where we are going, but along the way our path twists and turns. The stops we make introduce us to new and exciting opportunities, awaken hidden skills, or bring us full circle to beloved memories.

The Fascinating World of Mariposas: Butterflies in Monteverde

Butterflies, or mariposas, are among the most captivating creatures in the natural world. With their delicate wings, intricate patterns, and graceful flight, they have long inspired awe and curiosity. In this article, we’ll explore them further, and share a few fascinating details about these creatures.

Costa Rica’s Coatis: Playful Residents of the Wild

When exploring Costa Rica’s lush forests, you might be lucky enough to encounter a group of lively, long-tailed animals that seem to be as curious about you as you are about them. Meet the coati, one of Costa Rica’s most charming and intelligent creatures. 

Monteverde’s Star Attraction: The Cloud Forests

Monteverde is world-renowned for its magical cloud forests, which draw visitors from across the globe to explore one of Earth’s rarest ecosystems. While many biodiverse regions are captivating, Monteverde stands apart. 

Monteverde: A Birding Haven Like No Other

Monteverde is renowned as a birdwatcher’s paradise, home to almost 500 species, from dazzling hummingbirds to iconic Resplendent Quetzals. The changing seasons bring dynamic migrations and unique behaviors, making each month a distinct experience for bird enthusiasts.