We’re trying to get ready for Semana Santa (Holy Week) here in Costa Rica. Being that we’re a Catholic country, religious festivities are quite a special occasion to socialize and bring out some of the nation’s best long-standing traditions.

Each city and town has their own street processions taking place every day this week. They dramatize all the stages of Christ’s way to the crucifixion and resurrection. Oxcarts, horses and trucks are blessed.

It’s also time to indulge in local delicacies of the season, such as chiverre (sweet preserves made from spaghetti squash), arroz con leche and lots of seafood dishes (as many still give up meat for lent).

It’s a very exciting time here, religious or not. Most people have the greater part of the week off from work. And they take advantage of this time to head to the beach.

Time at the beach this during this season can be fun – but crazy. It’s nice to be in the middle of a different culture’s celebrating, but I personally find the beaches nicer when there aren’t many people around. Though it is fun to meet new people, if you happen to be outgoing. And this week all the beaches will be packed!

Those tourists arriving to Costa Rica at this time of the year who have not made plans in advance can have trouble finding car and hotel reservations.

San Jose will be dead on Thursday and Friday, but all the country roads (most especially those leading to the beaches) will be packed.

Besides being a holiday, Easter brings along the end of the dry season, though the rainy season ramps up slowly. So Costa Ricans and foreigners are eager to get a taste of the last sunny, clear-sky weather of the season, while relaxing and hiking at the beach and mountains during Holy Week.

As for me, I’ll be home relaxing!