Jun 22, 2019
The RipJack Inn: More than just a hotel

The RipJack Inn is more than just a hotel, it is a home for the first time and the returning visitor to Playa Grande. Dave, Annie, Luli, and the entire staff at the RipJack Inn are all one big loving family. That warm family feeling is extended to everyone who sets foot here, whether in the hotel, the restaurant, the bar, or the yoga shalas. Even Playa Grande locals frequent the RipJack Inn for a post-surf breakfast, sunset cocktails, and weekly live music. 

One of two pools

Perfectly positioned right across the street from one of the main beach access paths, the RipJack Inn is the epicenter of the coastal neighborhood of Playa Grande. It is a place where everyone knows or quickly learns your name. It a place where you know you can always go and feel like you belong there. 

It is this friendly and welcoming energy that attracts surfers, yogis, families, couples, friends, and solo travelers from around the globe. It is also for this reason that many people who stay at the RipJack Inn once, often come back again. There is nothing quite like feeling like you are home and part of a community when you are thousands of miles away from your actual home. 

Healthy, happy family and friends

In recent years, the RipJack Inn has also become a popular destination for yoga, surf, and fitness retreats; student group trips and weddings.  Between two yoga shalas, two pools, a restaurant, a bar, and immediate access to the beach and surf, the location doesn’t get much better than this in Playa Grande. There is also a diverse selection of rooms, suites, and bungalows to choose from. 

A place of love

Wedding parties have rented out the entire RipJack Inn to host one of the most romantic moments of any couple’s life. Ceremonies are usually conducted on the beach around sunset, dinner is served upstairs, and the party carries on into the night around the pool. Of course, you can customize your day however you see fit. Your guests will likely be delighted that they get to celebrate your love in one of the most magical places in Northern Guanacaste. You’ll feel like you are getting married at a beloved family member’s home. 

There is nothing impersonal about staying at and spending time at the RipJack Inn. You might arrive as a guest, but you will surely leave as a member of the RipJack Inn family. 

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Jun 9, 2019
How to Ward Off Pesky Mosquitos the Al Natural Way

Did you know that the mosquito is the world’s most dangerous creature? These tiny assassins are responsible for over a million deaths and hundreds of millions of cases of dengue, malaria, yellow fever, chikungunya, and zika among other diseases every year. There are more than 3,500 different species of mosquitos and they especially love hot and wet environments. 

Did you know that only the female mosquitos bite for blood and they only do so when they need the extra nutrients to produce their eggs? Male mosquitos are important pollinators as they feed on the nectar of all different types of plants. Mosquitos are actually one of the top pollinators of cacao, the raw ingredient that is used to make chocolate. So, while it is safe to say that everyone hates mosquitos, we actually need them. 

To avoid contracting one of nearly a dozen mosquito-borne diseases, some of which can be potentially life-threatening, it is critical to protect yourself. If you are particularly prone to mosquito bites or are exploring a heavy mosquito-populated area, it might be wise to use a mosquito repellent with DEET. However, if you want to avoid this toxic chemical and you are taking other precautions (see note below) you will be pleased to learn that many natural insect repellents work well thanks to a combination of essential oils.

Mosquitos hate lavender!

 

There are even some organic and locally-made insect repellents that you can purchase while you are in Costa Rica. These include Raw Botanicals Lemongrass Insect Deterrent and Alegria Soaps aloe-based insect gel.

From the earth

When purchasing a natural insect repellent or making your own, look for a combination of the following natural essential oils: 

Lemon eucalyptus

Tea tree

Cinnamon

Bergamot

Peppermint

Lavender

Citronella

Geranium

Thyme

Pine

Cedar

Basil 

Do not directly apply essential oils to your skin. Make sure you have a carrier oil such as coconut or almond oil mixed in to avoid irritation. 

Other precaution measures that you can take to reduce your risk of getting mauled by mosquitos is to wear lightweight and light-colored long sleeves and long pants, especially around dawn and dusk; eliminate any standing water around your home or accommodations; and burn citronella incents, coils, or candles. Mosquitos might be the world’s most despised pests, but with the right insect repellent, we can co-exist.

Check out the RipJack Inn’s little boutique or Pots and Bowls for local products, including natural insect repellent.

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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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Apr 28, 2019
Nine Waterfalls within Driving Distance from Playa Grande, Costa Rica

Even though Guanacaste is the driest of the seven provinces, there is no shortage of waterfalls to chase around this diverse region of Costa Rica. From Playa Grande, there are ample opportunities to gaze up at several glorious waterfalls. The waterfalls in this particular list are all within driving distance from Playa Grande and can be visited as part of a day-trip to several other popular natural attractions. 

Llanos de Cortés

Llanos de Cortés is an easily accessible waterfall just outside of Liberia in the town of Bagaces. This is the perfect place to stop by on your way to or from other attractions like Rincón de la Vieja National Park, La Fortuna, the Tenorio National Park, or the Puma Rescue Center. After paying a small entrance fee and taking a short walk down a path from the parking lot, you will arrive at a magnificent waterfall and pristine natural swimming pool. This spot is also ideal for an afternoon picnic, as many locals like to do on the weekends here.

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Picnic by a waterfall/ Photo Courtesy of Me

Four Main Waterfalls in the Rincón de la Vieja National Park

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A great way to escape the Guanacaste heat/ Photo Credit: Patrick Nouhailler-Flickr

Oropéndula 

This 82-foot waterfall is conveniently located near the Las Pailas entrance to the Rincón de la Vieja National Park. You can assess this impressive waterfall on horseback or on foot. At the base of the falls is a crystal clear turquoise swimming hole.

Chorreras 

There are actually two waterfalls that cascade down a canyon in the Rincón de la Vieja National Park. What’s unique about this particular waterfall(s) is that the pool beneath is a majestic sky blue color thanks to the high concentration of minerals in the water. On horseback, you can reach this duel-waterfall in 25-minutes.

Victoria 

Victoria waterfall is located on the Rio Negro and plunges 115-foot into an inviting natural pool. The Rio Negro is a famed river tubing destination within the Rincón de la Vieja Nationa Park. You can certainly tube the river and explore this waterfall in a day’s adventure.

Cangreja 

The Canjrega waterfall is located deep in the biodiverse and beautiful forest of Rincón de la Vieja. Cooper from the nearby volcano turns the water that pools at the base of this 130-foot waterfall a heavenly blue color. From the park’s entrance, you can easily hike to this jaw-dropping forest waterfall.

Waterfalls at Sensoria 

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A great place to chase waterfalls/Photo Courtesy of Sensoria

Sensoria: Land of Senses and Magical Rainforest is a privately owned and protected property in Guanacaste that is host to four spectacular waterfalls, natural thermal hot springs, blue rivers, and abundant wildlife. Only a few guests are granted access to Sensoria daily, so if you make a reservation, you can rest assured knowing that you won’t be bothered by crowds of people while you are enjoying the waterfalls and natural attractions of this little slice of paradise. The four waterfalls are Buenos Aires, Aguilar, Jicara, and Dantas.

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Visit Sensoria for a waterfall filled day/Photo Courtesy of Sensoria

While many visitors from around the world flock to Guanacaste’s golden beaches, the interior of the province is host to waterfalls, diverse forest ecosystems, and an incredible collection of wildlife. If you are staying in Playa Grande, you can enjoy both the salt and fresh water features of this unique place in Costa Rica.

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Apr 14, 2019
Fruit Feature: Papaya, the Miracle Worker of the Tropics

Papaya is the ultimate tropical fruit! Papaya flourishes throughout Central America, the Caribbean, Florida, and India. This widely available fruit grows year-around in the tropics. You will find papaya at every fruit stand and food market throughout Costa Rica, as well as being a common ingredient for smoothies and juices. While papaya is a tasty fruit, it is also one that possesses an incredible amount of vitamins and nutrients. This powerhouse fruit offers an impressive array of health benefits to anyone who regularly consumes it. 

Plus, find out how papaya leaves are used to treat a common mosquito-transmitted illness. 

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Papaya plantation in Costa Rica

Papaya contains…

Zeaxanthin: an antioxidant that has been proven to help eyes filter blue light (light from your computer, phone, and television screens) and ward off macular degeneration. 

Beta-carotene: an antioxidant that helps reduce the risk of cancer. 

Vitamin K: improves calcium absorption and reduces calcium elimination in the body. 

Papain: an enzyme that aids in digestion and helps reduce inflammation in the body. 

Chymopapain: an enzyme that reduces inflammation in the body. Chronic inflammation has been linked to nearly every chronic disease. 

Potassium: reduces the risk of developing heart disease. A diet that is high in potassium and low in sodium is essential for heart health. 

Choline: a nutrient that supports sleep, memory, and muscle movement. It also supports the structure of cellular membranes. 

Vitamin A and C: promotes healthy skin and hair. 

Papaya is also chalked full of B vitamins, vitamin E, calcium, and lycopene, an antioxidant that is also found in tomatoes. 

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Nature’s medicine

Papaya fights dengue! 

Dengue is a mosquito-transmitted illness that affects millions of people every year throughout the tropics. There are several different strands of dengue, but some can lead to hospitalization and the need for a blood transfusion. One of the most dangerous aspects of this viral infection is that it causes your blood platelets to drop significantly, and in some severe cases this can lead to internal bleeding. 

Papaya leaf extract or juice has been proven to help prevent platelets from dropping to dangerously low levels and even prevent platelet destruction all together when infected with dengue. 

This natural treatment has also been known to help reduce the other symptoms that are associated with dengue, such as high fever, severe headache, and debilitating body aches.

https://youtu.be/l4qaKEHXVj4

While papaya is available in North America and other regions where it is not locally grown, make sure you enjoy some fresh papaya from the source the next time you are in Costa Rica.

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Mar 31, 2019
How to Stay in the Know in Playa Grande, Costa Rica

Get the inside scoop about what’s happening in and around Playa Grande by utilizing these amazing free online and in-print local resources.

The Howler Magazine

The Howler Magazine was established in 1996 and became Guanacaste’s first English language magazine. It has long served as a source of entertainment, information, and inspiration for both visitors and locals alike. This free monthly magazine is a great resource and can be picked up at the Wilmart, the RipJack Inn reception, Pots and Bowls, Las Tortugas Hotel, the Automercado, and many other local establishments in and around Playa Grande. 

Playa Grande, Costa Rica
Local knowledge

The Swell Dealer

The Swell Dealer is a free publication and website where you can find out about what’s happening in Playa Grande, Tamarindo, Langosta, Brasilto, Surfside, and Potrero. This is one of the best sources for finding out about locals events, fundraisers, live music, parties, happy hours, fitness classes, and all sorts of different specials and discounts. You can find The Swell Dealer at the Automercado and other supermarkets, as well as an online and continuously updated social calendar. 

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Local deals and events

RipJack Inn Bulletin Board

At the entrance of the RipJack Inn bar and restaurant to the right, you will find a bulletin board with flyers and information about yoga classes, live music, and other local happenings. 

La Comunidad Playa Grande Facebook Page 

This Facebook page is a useful resource if you are staying in Playa Grande long-term or full-time. You will find emergency phone numbers and information about what is happening in Playa Grande. 

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Know before you go

RipJack Inn Blog

Twice a month we share an article related to surfing, yoga, wellness, nutrition, events, local advice, recommendations, and tips. 

RipJack Inn Instagram 

Stay up-to-date on the day-to-day at the RipJack Inn and Playa Grande. @ripjackinncr 

Grande Real Estate Blog

The Grande Real Estate blog offers local insight into life in Playa Grande. You will also find helpful information about education, relocation, activities, wildlife and adventure tours, surrounding beaches, surfing, and local culture. 

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Mar 17, 2019
Four Free Activities to Do Around Playa Grande, Costa Rica

Coco Chanel once said, “the best things in life are free.” The second part of that quote is, “the second best things are very, very expensive,” but that’s beside the point we are going to make here! 

You’ve made it Costa Rica, you’ve paid for your plane ticket, your transportation, and your accommodations. You will pay for your tours, meals, souvenirs, happy hour cocktails, and likely several other things. While vacations aren’t necessarily cheap, you can save a few bucks by enjoying some of the free activities a place has to offer.

While you are staying in Playa Grande, take advantage of the following four activities that won’t cost you a penny if you don’t want it to. 

Take a stroll and a swim 

Playa Grande is literally a big beach! A walk from the RipJack Inn beach path to the most southern end of the beach before the estuary takes around forty minutes. If you walk the other way and continue past the rock and ontop Playa Ventanas the distance is only slightly less. When the tide is low, the sand is firmly packed in and ideal for long strolls along the sea. It is not uncommon to walk and see no one else. 

This peaceful and wholesome activity is entirely free!

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Peace and solitude by the sea Photo credit: Christian Barrette/Flickr

Enjoy some live music

Every Wednesday there is live music for free upstairs at the RipJack Inn. Every Friday there is free music at the Wilmart. Occasionally, on Saturdays, there is free music at Las Olas Beach Club, as well as on Sundays at Pots and Bowls. For being such a small town, there are actually ample opportunities to enjoy some free live music. 

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Enjoy the show

Check out the night markets

Night markets are a relatively new thing in the area. They have quickly gained popularity and are free to attend. Of course, if you decide to buy something while you are there, then they aren’t completely free. On Monday there is a night market in Flamingo, on Wednesday there is one in Playa Grande at Las Olas Beach Club, and on Thursdays, there is one in Tamarindo. You will find live music, local artisans selling their wares, and food vendors. This is something fun for the entire family. 

Watch the sunset 

You absolutely cannot spend time in Playa Grande and not take advantage of one of nature’s most spectacular daily shows. Watching the sunset is a free activity that both locals and visitors embrace while spending time in this beautiful part of the world. Every evening is different, and often it is right after the sun sets that the sky really comes to life. It is a good ritual while you are in Costa Rica to end the daylight hours on the beach. 

Playa Grande, Costa Rica
No two sunsets are ever the same Photo credit: Jakob Christensen/Flickr

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Mar 3, 2019
A Few Reasons Why Playa Grande, Costa Rica Should Be Your Next Vacation Destination

Do you have itchy feet? Are you currently watching the snow flurries fall while daydreaming about piña coladas and palm trees? Do you need some sunshine kisses on your skin and a warm salt water hug? If you are on the fence about where you would like to spend your next chunk of leisure time, you should consider Playa Grande, Costa Rica.

Here are a few reasons that might persuade you to book a trip to this quaint little town by the sea.

Space

Unlike the more developed towns that surround Playa Grande where nearly every conceivable space is occupied by a hotel, home, hostel, or shop of some sort, you will find much more open space here. Playa Grande has just the right amount of stuff. There are a few restaurants, two surf shops, a couple of hotels, and little clusters of homes.

There is far more green space in Playa Grande than there are humanmade structures. For this reason, Playa Grande is also home to a diverse population of wildlife. Playa Grande is part of the Las Baulas National Marine Park, so aside from a few houses at the northern end of the beach, there is no development on the beach. You can walk for miles in both directions and see few if anyone else on the beach.

Playa Grande vacation destination
Morning choir / Photo courtesy of Jenn Parker

Serenity

Playa Grande is a very peaceful place. It is a town that attracts yogis, surfers, families, nature-lovers, and serenity-seekers. Around sunrise and sunset, you can hear a symphony of howler monkeys, parrots, blackbirds, and magpie jays mixed in with the sound of the waves crashing against the shoreline. The town goes quiet once the sun goes down. It is here that you can let the sounds of nature lull you into a state of calm and contentment.

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Calm sea, calm mind

Stretch, Sweat, and Surf

Playa Grande isn’t a party town, and because there isn’t much of a late nightlife scene here, many people who spend time here choose to take advantage of the daytime hours. If you want to practice yoga, take some fitness classes, and or catch some waves, Playa Grande is the place for you. The RipJack Inn has two yoga shalas and is located directly in front of a beach path that ends at the central surf zone. There is also a new fitness studio in town that offers a variety of classes and open-gym hours.

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Come to Playa Grande to play

No-Stress

Playa Grande is a convenient home base to set out on a fantastic variety of day trips. However, if this vacation is more about just kicking back and relaxing, you don’t need to leave Playa Grande. Everything that you might need and want is available right in town. Playa Grande is the perfect place to settle into and enjoy all that this charming beach town has to offer.

We look forward to seeing you on your next vacation!

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Feb 17, 2019
4 Traditional Costa Rican Dishes You Must Try Upstairs

I may be a bit biased (but I doubt it!) because I adore everything about Costa Rica, but the traditional cuisine of this incredible little country is definitely one of the many reasons you should visit. Staples in the Costa Rica diet include rice, beans, corn tortillas, queso fresco, plantains, papaya, bananas, various types of squash, locally-caught seafood, and free-range chicken and meat.

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Food to fuel your adventures

If you want to experience the best local cuisine, you can find it at nearly any soda. A soda is a restaurant, typically family-owned and operated that serves traditional Costa Rican food. These small restaurants are very budget-friendly! Every town in Costa Rica has at least one soda. In Huacas, you will find multiple sodas, including Soda Guanacaste. If you make it to Villa Real, the town before you turn in to go to Tamarindo, Soda Las Palmas is a must!

Eating a soda is a great way to have an authentic cultural experience while you are visiting Costa Rica. If you don’t feel like venturing out of Playa Grande though, you can enjoy some local favorites around town. Upstairs at the RipJack Inn, our menu features several of those must-try dishes.

Gallo Pinto

Gallo pinto is synonymous with Costa Rica! A perfectly married blend of rice, bean, cilantro, onions, pepper, and other spices is a breakfast basic. At the RipJack Inn, the gallo pinto is made with brown rice and is served in some breakfast and lunch dishes including the grilled breakfast wrap, desayuno tipico, and veggie hummus wrap.

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Gallo pinto is a must-eat!

Patacones

Patacones are a favorite local snack. Green plantains are cut, fried, pressed into a disc-shape, and fried again. They are typically accompanied by refried beans and salsa fresca. I don’t know anyone who doesn’t like patacones!

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The perfect afternoon snack

Ceviche

You can’t go to the coast and not enjoy some ceviche! While ceviche is not a dish exclusively found in Costa Rica, it is one that is done well here. The basics of a ceviche include fresh fish, a lot of limes, cilantro, some veggies like chile dulce, salt, other seasonings, and often a good splash of ginger ale.

This dish is the epitome of fresh and really hits the spot on a hot tropical day at the beach. Ceviche is usually served with homemade tortilla chips, plantains chips, or if you are lucky patacones.

Cascado

A cascado is what Costa Ricans call a typical plate of food. Cascados can be served at breakfast, lunch, or dinner and frequently Costa Ricans have more than one a day. This plate always includes rice and beans and then a combination of salad, sweet plantains, queso fresco, and either fish, chicken, beef, or pork. There are all different combinations, and everyone place does their cascado a little differently.

This is the ultimate Costa Rican dish. If you are surfing while you are in Playa Grande, a cascado is the ultimate surfer’s food.

Traditional Costa Rica food is all made from locally grown and sourced ingredients. While you are in Costa Rica, do yourself a favor and try a variety of local food. I promise you that you won’t regret it!

Buen provecho!

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