Today all the government offices and schools were closed for the “Day of the Races” formerly known as Columbus Day. All of central america celebrates this day and here in Puerto Viejo it was just one more day to kick back and hang out. The beaches were the most crowded I have seen them. A friend and I bicycled all up and down the road visiting people and sight seeing. She has been living here for seven years and knows many people so I was introduced to several new friends 
The day was an absolutely beautiful one – sun shining 
in the morning and then a brief rain this afternoon. It wasn’t too hot and I got to see a few things I had not seen before. We visited the only upscale hotel in this area – called the Le Chameleon – and I 
got to see one of the rooms. It was very nice and the grounds and the beach area that they have is absolutely gorgeous!
I met a woman who has had a blog for a couple of years now that I have followed. Her name is Lisa Valencia and she moved to PV about two years ago and is making a life for herself. She has an audio book that I purchased and she has a guide service that she is putting a lot of work. I have no doubt that her clients are very pleased with the places she takes them and the knowledge that they glean from her.
Other pictures from the day:
Buses taking people back to San Jose
Ticos fishing for dinner from the shore
Morning at the beach
Places to eat
Costa Rica Dog Lover 
Hi, I really enjoy this post!! We are thinking of going to Costa Rica on a honeymoon in October and we might hit the Caribbean side during Dia de la Raza. Sounds like a great time. We’ve heard of the Limon Carnival but I’m curious if there are other events to visit on that day instead, like something in PV (we heard Limon is a bit dangerous and rougher, especially in terms of a honeymoon — however, correct me if I’m wrong, because it does sound really fun!).
Is it always celebrated Oct. 12th in PV? This year, it’s a Wednesday… would people come out on the weekend before or after?
Thanks in advance for a reply. I’d love to talk more about PV with you if that is possible sometime soon!