Costa Rica redefines the adage of man versus nature. The elements seem to greatly favour the triumph of vegetation, and human intervention must be undertaken with much resolve and dedication. Fenceposts, for example, are staked as segmented tree trunks, but quickly turn back into trees.The roads here are the most… textured I have witnessed to date. They appear as though assaulted by an ongoing series of highly localized meteor showers. Some roads are defined more by the absence of vegetation than the presence of asphalt. Curving and winding through this highly mountenous region at inclines impractical (and illegal) in snowy countries, two lanes often merge into one, making passing vehicles a challenge, as if the roads weren´t challenging enough on their own.The edges of most roads, when paved, resemble a pie crust. There is no curb or sidewalk, and people walk and bike on the road as well, vehicles swerving politely around them. A common cycling style involves placing one hand on the handlebars, while the other holds up an umbrella. The effect of water on the roads is visible. In effect, they are quickly eroaded.