Costa Rica is a country that is famous for its natural beauty, biodiversity, and eco-friendly practices. But it is also known for its unique and positive philosophy of life, which is summed up by the phrase “pura vida”. Pura vida, which literally means “pure life”, is more than just a saying, it is a way of living that embraces simplicity, gratitude, happiness, and optimism. Pura vida is the essence of Costa Rican culture and identity, and it is something that you can experience and learn from when you visit this amazing country. Here are some tips on how to experience pura vida in Costa Rica: Learn the meaning and use of pura vida. Pura vida can be used as a greeting, a farewell, a response, a compliment, or an expression of agreement or satisfaction. It can also be used to describe a person, a place, or a situation that is good, cool, or awesome. For example, you can say “pura vida” when you meet someone, when you leave someone, when someone asks you how you are doing, when someone does something nice for you, when you see something beautiful or amazing, or when you agree with someone. You can also say that someone is “pura vida” if they are friendly, kind, or generous, or that something is “pura vida” if it is enjoyable, fun, or relaxing. The more you use pura vida, the more you will feel its positive vibe and attitude.

Appreciate the natural beauty and diversity of Costa Rica. Costa Rica is a paradise for nature lovers, as it has more than 5% of the world’s biodiversity in less than 0.1% of its land area. You can find stunning landscapes and wildlife in every corner of the country, from volcanoes and rainforests to beaches and coral reefs. You can also enjoy a variety of outdoor activities and adventures, such as hiking, biking, rafting, surfing, snorkeling, diving, zip-lining, and more. By exploring and respecting nature in Costa Rica, you will experience the pura vida lifestyle that values harmony and balance with the environment.

Connect with the local people and culture of Costa Rica. Costa Ricans (or Ticos) are known for being friendly, hospitable, and cheerful people who love to share their culture and traditions with visitors. You can learn a lot from them about pura vida by engaging in conversations, joining in celebrations and festivals, trying local food and drinks, listening to music and dancing, or participating in volunteer or community projects. You will find that Ticos are very proud of their country and their heritage, and that they have a strong sense of family and social responsibility. By connecting with the local people and culture of Costa Rica, you will experience the pura vida lifestyle that values happiness and well-being over materialism and stress.

Relax and enjoy yourself in Costa Rica. One of the most important aspects of pura vida is to have fun and enjoy life without worrying too much about the past or the future. Costa Rica offers many opportunities for relaxation and entertainment that will make you feel refreshed and rejuvenated. You can pamper yourself with spa treatments or yoga classes at one of the many wellness resorts in the country, such as Pura Vida Retreat & Spa, which offers world-class yoga instruction, organic cuisine, and spa services in a stunning setting overlooking the Central Valley. You can also indulge yourself with delicious chocolate or coffee made from locally grown cocoa beans or coffee beans at one of the many plantations or factories in the country. You can also simply chill out on one of the many beautiful beaches in the country, where you can swim, sunbathe, read a book, or watch the sunset. By relaxing and enjoying yourself in Costa Rica, you will experience the pura vida lifestyle that values quality over quantity and simplicity over complexity.

Pura vida is not just a phrase that you will hear in Costa Rica; it is a philosophy that you will feel in your heart and soul. By following these tips on how to experience pura vida in Costa Rica, you will discover why this country is one of the happiest and most peaceful in the world. You will also learn how to apply pura vida to your own life wherever you go. Pura vida is not only a way of living; it is also a way of being.

Photo by Jake Johnson