May 26, 2019
One Costa Rican Spanish Phrase You Need to Know

Knowing some basic Spanish phrases is definitely helpful when visiting Costa Rica, but knowing this one particular Costa Rican Spanish phrase is a must! If you’ve been here before, you have undoubtedly heard and seen the phrase pura vida. If you are about to visit Costa Rica for the first time, you will likely hear this phrase within minutes of being in the country. Aside from directly translating to pure life, this Costa Rican Spanish phrase is synonymous with everything Costa Rica. 

Pura vida is a Costa Rican Spanish phrase that can act like a greeting, a salutation, a response, a philosophy, and a way of life. 

Pronunciation: POO-rah VEE-dah

Go with the flow

The phrase pura vida actually originated from a Mexican film called Pura Vida that was released in 1956. According to research done by Anna Marie Trester, pura vida “is the expression of the eternal optimism used by a comic character who can’t do anything right. The phrase struck a cord in Costa Rica and has been used ever since.” 

The pura vida way of life is one that can be adopted by anyone and easily learned by spending time in Costa Rica. The important aspects of the traditional Costa Rican way of life include family, community, work, natural food, nature, and an easy breezy, laid-back demeanor. This philosophy is about slowing down and taking the time to enjoy life, whether by spending time with friends and family or doing something you love, like surfing. It’s no wonder that Costa Rica has continually ranked as one of the happiest countries on the planet. Pura vida isn’t about material wealth, it’s about being time-rich. 

You will notice that when pura vida is used the speaker’s face naturally adorns a lighthearted smile. Pura Vida is contagious and something really wonderful and potentially life-changing to catch. Try it out when you are in Costa Rica! Here’s how.

Hello=pura vida

How are you=pura vida

I’m well=pura vida

Yes=pura vida 

Thank you=pura vida

You’re welcome=pura vida

Goodbye=pura vida

See you later=pura vida 

Pura Vida
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May 14, 2019
Lightweight Gear Guide for a Green Season Trip to Costa Rica

Green Season in Costa Rica begins in May. With the arrival of this rejuvenating season comes afternoon showers, brilliant rainbows, psychedelic sunsets, and a complete revival of the native plant and animal life. A little rain and humidity won’t put a damper on the amazing activities you can enjoy while you are visiting Costa Rica as long as you come prepared with the proper tropical winter (May through November is considered winter in Costa Rica) gear. 

What’s great about the recommended products below is that they are all very lightweight and compact, so you don’t have to worry about weighing down your luggage. If you are going to invest in travel and adventure gear, you are better off paying a little more for a product that is durable and long-lasting, opposed to contributing to the global waste problem of “fast fashion” and cheap throw-away stuff. Don’t worry though; this gear guide contains affordable and resilient gear that will last you for many trips to come to the tropics. 

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Thirst quenching rain

Rain jacket

A rain jacket is the perfect multi-purpose piece of clothing that you will be happy to have in Costa Rica, regardless of the season. You will want to bring one that is lightweight though, as it is warm in Costa Rica year round. A rain jacket that can be compressed and folded up is key if you want to pack lightly and keep your day pack small, as well. A good rain jacket will not only keep you dry during those tropical downpours, but it can also protect your skin from the sun and insects, as well as keeping you comfortable when it is windy.

Patagonia Storm Racer or Torrentshell

Columbia Watertight Jacket

Adventure shoes

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It’s all about traction!

If you own the right pair of adventure shoes, you can eliminate the need to bring multiple pairs of shoes for different purposes on your trip to Costa Rica. You want to make sure you bring a shoe that is made with quick-drying material, is cushioned and comfortable, and has good traction.

TropicFeel 

Vivobarefoot Ultra

Quick-dry towel

Regular beach towels are bulky and if it’s particularly humid and rainy they might take more than a whole day to dry. Every traveler should own a microfiber towel. These amazing compact towels are super absorbent and fast drying. They can be used as a beach towel, shower towel, sarong, or even a sun and windbreaker.

ECOdept MicroFiber Travel Towel

SYOURSELF MicroFiber Beach Bath Towel 

Water-Resistant day pack

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Green season magic

When you set out on one of your many adventures while exploring Costa Rica, you will likely want to have a few things handy for your outing. Perhaps you want to bring a camera, phone, dry change of clothes, mosquito repellent, sunscreen, and water. A dry-proof, water-resistant, or waterproof day pack is key to keeping all your stuff dry and easily accessible. These two-day packs, in particular, fold down into an easy to pack little pouch.

Outlander Ultralight Water-Resistant Packable Backpack

ELCM Foldable and Packable Waterproof Backpack

Waterproof phone case 

While it’s highly recommended that you take a little digital detox while you are in Costa Rica, having your phone with you to take photographs is a good idea. You will want to make sure that you have a protective case for your phone to avoid any damage to your device.

Lifeproof Waterproof Case

JOTO Universal Waterproof Case 

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