There is something special about small-town life. Especially when the town in question sits amongst the lush green backdrop of tropical forests high in the hills, and when the views stretch for miles in every direction. 

I recently wrote an article discussing the interconnectivity of the natural world, specifically the rainforests of Monteverde. The ways in which elements of the natural world support and provide for each other got me thinking more about the part we play in the world around us and how nature affects us, both emotionally and physically.

One of the things that surprised me the most the first time I visited Monteverde was the biodiversity. Since Monteverde is famous around the world for just that, my statement probably doesn’t make a lot of sense, but let me explain.

The moment you drive up the hill and catch a glimpse of the Ocotea Hotel’s graceful lines and striking modern design, you understand that you are about to experience something new and unique.  The stark white walls and expansive windows certainly stand out against the lush greenery of the gardens and the spreading branches of damas trees like a cool and comforting oasis.

It’s an honor to be able to share the stories and experiences of those who have come to stay with us in the Ocotea Boutique Hotel. Today, our guest writer Joy Detlor explores her own “Misty Morning in the Clouds.”

When you’ve been in the tour business for as long as we have you pick up on a few local favorites. Especially when you have watched them grow and evolve over the course of 15 years working together.

Designing, and building the Ocotea Boutique Hotel has been a complex and lengthy labor of love, and everyone on the Ocotea team is extremely proud of our accomplishment. It’s a joy to help people learn about Monteverde and all that it has to offer and to provide them with the best possible experience here so that they go home and tell everyone about our incredible corner of the world.

When I was a naturalist tour guide, I met a couple of amateur photographers who I traveled with for a while (I shared their passion for photography. We had been in different areas of Costa Rica and wherever we went, I could see their passion for finding beauty in the most simple places. But what they really taught me is that you can have and enjoy a photographic eye even without a camera (or phone) in your hand.

As the Ocotea Boutique Hotel continues to grow and thrive, it's natural to look back at our team’s humble beginnings and smile. The journey that brought us from a small family-owned and operated tour company to where we are now hasn’t always been easy. But it has been incredible, and that’s why we would like to take this opportunity to share a bit about Ocotea Tours & Transfer and what it means to our family.