Giovanna

<<So exactly how does reading this news item about a women being brutally beaten, strangled, and murdered help me to plan a "good and safe trip"? I really would like to understand the intent of all these posts.>>

Likewise a ship going aground in Antartica, which the OP has posted, seems to have little bearing on my having a safe cruise.

I just found the whole situation odd and that's why I posted in the first place.

littlejohn

I don't mind stories like this for a couple of reasons. (1) it helps me realize I am but a guest and need to be respectful (2) I learn about new areas and what people do. Its too bad she lost her life, I admire her mission and convictions (3) Also, the responses from the locals there show that in general Costa Ricans were appreciative of the work she did. (5) Costa Rica isn't much different then us Canadians at home and how we view those that move to Canada.

But then again..I am new to this list..LOL

Jaguarman

It's important to realize that living on the Osa Peninsula is very different that visiting the Osa Peninsula. Tourists rarely have trouble, however, if you live here, it is the "wild west" in more ways than one and disputes are known to be settled with a gun or knife.

This is not the first time something so tragic has happened on the Osa. I have written the Costa Rican Embassy asking to fully investigate the issue and not drag feet.

One thing to consider is the lack of jobs on the Osa outside of the tourist industry. Poachers poach animals because they need food or money, not for the fun of it. It's unfortunate that Kim died trying to bring economic help to the community through her chocolate (which is amazing!)

On a side note that is somewhat related, I'm so disappointed with the many tourists (aka backpackers) I meet who don't want to pay fair wages for services or skip out on final payments, leaving service provider with very little means to search for other money. I kid you not!!

RIP Kimberely. We will miss you.
Ballardo Diaz, jungle guide

keymarina

We travel to the Osa frequently. After coming to the Osa, it is hard to vacation anywhere else because of its beauty and the people. We felt terrible to read about Kimberely. While we did not know her personally, I bought her chocolate at Jaguar every time I am there. It was delicious and made with love.
We have not changed our opinion about traveling there. I agree with Jaguarman about living there vs. traveling there. I also agree about "ugly tourists"....I have been embarrassed at times to even see/hear some of these people. I saw a guide jump into a car of local Ticos to get away from the "ugly woman tourist" who refused to finish paying him because she "didn't see enough animals". I have seen tourists argue over a $2 cab ride from the P. Jimenez airport to the town because they thought a few blocks was too much $$. I have seen tourists treat wait staff at Caroline's terribly, throw their garbage and cigarette butts on a deserted beach....I can go on and on.
When traveling anywhere, one must act with respect and caution. To be honest, I have felt more in danger in New Orleans than I ever have on the Osa Peninsula.
Again, we feel terrible for the loss of Kimberely for her friends and family. She was obviously loved very very much. I hope they arrest her attacker. Things move slowly and I believe justice will be done. The Osa remains one of the most sacred places on the Earth to us and we pray for the people that give their loves protecting it.

shillmac

Powerful remarks, both of you. Your words serve to remind all of us of the importance of our actions as well as the importance of understanding all of the nuances of an area and its traditions. Kimberly's story is a heartbreaking one, based on issues both simple and complex. I just wish that, for her sake, time could be turned back. Or perhaps that isn't the way it should be. We can only hope that one day there will be a better way, and her sacrifice will have made all the difference.