I am a published author from Toronto, and I often seek unique places to inspire my writing. For my latest thriller, much of the action is set in the dense and mysterious jungles of Costa Rica, so I decided to spend a month in San José to immerse myself in the culture and surroundings. To make the most of my stay, I rented a villa in the upscale Escazú area and arranged for a private chauffeur, Oscar, to assist with my daily excursions.

I soon discovered that he wasn’t just a driver—his deep knowledge of the city brought a richness to every outing, providing me with insights I couldn’t have found in a guidebook.
Each morning, Oscar took me on excursions through the highlights of Costa Rica, from the festive streets of San José to the breathtaking surrounding landscapes. His engaging stories of Costa Rican culture were very useful for my research, and I gained insights that brought authenticity to the jungle scenes in my novel. At the same time, his presence made every trip feel secure and comfortable.
Afternoons were dedicated to writing. Inspired by Oscar’s guidance and the rich experiences he facilitated, the words flowed. By the end of the trip, I had completed the manuscript for my novel, and as a gesture of gratitude, I named a secondary character “Oscar” in his honor. His kindness and dedication will remain one of my fondest memories of the journey.

“I take pride in helping clients discover Costa Rica’s beauty while giving them the peace of mind to focus on their goals.”