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BlogTravel storiesThe story behind our September catalog cover
Travel stories

The story behind our September catalog cover

Sep 03, 2020 by Emily Houston

Our September catalog is here! This big book of travel dreams is more inspirational than ever—and not just because it’s where you’ll find your perfect trip. For the first time ever, the cover of the catalog was photographed by and features a member of our global travel family. Here’s your behind-the-scenes look at how this cover came to life!

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Discover the destination

Can you guess which country was the backdrop for this photoshoot? Did I hear someone say Costa Rica? If so, treat yourself to some fresh pineapple (or a piña colada). We’ll take some of each, please!

Carlos and Maikol, two members of our global travel family who live in Costa Rica, collaborated to capture the perfect cover image. You’ll learn more about them as you keep reading! Carlos spent the day photographing Maikol on the grounds of the organic pineapple farm he works at, which we visit on tour. The farm focuses on upholding the eco-friendly practices that Costa Rica is known for.

Visit the farm on tour

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Meet the photographer

The photographer who snapped the cover-worthy picture is Carlos, one of our Costa Rican Tour Directors. A licensed naturalist guide and National Geographic certified photography instructor, Carlos is as passionate about showing travelers the beauty of his home country as he is photographing it. Check out his Instagram to see his wow-worthy wildlife photos.

Carlos lives in the capital of San José and has more than twenty years of experience as a guide and photographer. Whether it’s through sharing expert knowledge or telling personal stories, it’s locals like Carlos who take your tour from being just a trip to one unforgettable travel experience.

Join a live, interactive Online Escape to meet Carlos!

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Say “hola” to the cover star

They say a picture’s worth a thousand words, but the phrase really should be a picture can make a thousand people smile—or at least this photo can! Maikol is the star of our September catalog and one of the many locals you’ll meet on tour.

If there’s anyone who captures the essence of pura vida, it’s Maikol! He shares his passion for sustainable farming and tourism practices with every traveler who visits him at the organic pineapple farm he works at. Plus, he partners with his boss to create more opportunities for the people living in the rural region of Costa Rica where the farm is located.

Join a live, interactive Online Escape to meet Maikol!

Check out the e-version of our September catalog!


Photo essays
About the author | Emily Houston
Emily loves the simple travel moments—like watching hours pass by in minutes while sharing a meal and a laugh (or many) with her friends and family. Outside the office, you'll find Emily listening to anything and everything John Mayer, attempting to cook a New York Times recipe, or dreaming up her next trip.

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Costa Rica: Rainforests, Volcanoes & Wildlife
9 days | 12 days with Manuel Antonio & San José extension

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