Originally published on November 14, 2013.
If you’ve never been to Costa Rica, you’re never going to fully understand the essence of ¡Pura Vida!, which literally means Pure Life (or simple life). I learned that it is more than just experiencing ‘pure life’, but it is basically Costa Rica’s way of life, as well as the law of the land. One of my many favorite memories are the Pura Vida 101 lessons I’ve learned from the friendly hotel staff, quirky driver and our conversant zip line guide.
I was told, you always greet, say, respond “Pura Vida” to anything. Costa Ricans use this term to say hello, to say goodbye, to say everything’s great, and to say everything’s cool. And so, I’ve exhausted these two words for the seven days I was in Costa Rica. To the point where I firmly believed the power of those words. Almost as if they were some kind of mantra. More than words, Pura Vida is a lifestyle. A simple way of looking at life. Stress free and staying optimistic no matter what comes your way.
This is exactly why I love to travel. To learn new things, expand my horizons and discover cultures. My never-ending chase of living life to the fullest just added another point of view. And for that, I am grateful.
It was easy to achieve Pura Vida in Costa Rica. There is something about being surrounded by nature at it’s purest form. From the black sands of Jaco beach, to the volcanic hot springs at Arenal. It brings a sense of healing. Physically, mentally and spiritually. This must be how it’s like to be one with nature.
Even in the middle of minor issues, I found myself remaining calm and laughing it off like it was no big deal. Like when I ran out of cash, and my debit card was blocked. Or overlooking the required departure tax and had to find a way to pay for it in the middle of the city.
¡Pura Vida!
My Costa Rica trip still remains one of my favorite and memorable trips. There were a lot of adventures, laughters, lessons and interesting moments. Traveling with good friends made it all the more special. Ironically, it was also one of my simplest vacations. There was no pressure for making it “the best trip”, yet it turned out to be one of them. No fancy hotels, or fancy outfits. No James Beard award-winning food. No overhyped tourist landmarks. Above all, there was just us and pura vida.
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Jen is a Chicago-based traveler and creative. She is a full-time development & communications executive specializing in non-profit organizations. Originally from the East Coast, she created The Jetsetter as a place to share her travel stories and photos with friends and family. Now, it is a place for adventurers and dreamers. Its purpose is to inspire and encourage busy professionals to see the world and achieve a better work-life balance.