This post was written by Mia Yakel, Local Manager, Costa Rica at Life Beyond the Room
When people first think of Costa Rica, things like ocean views, palm trees, toucans, and monkeys first come to mind. You will find these things here, but the true experience of Costa Rica promises so much more. Instead of just viewing wildlife and stepping into nature as a tourist, the jungle gives you the chance to experience nature in a whole new way.
With waterfalls around every corner and a seemingly infinite string of beautiful beaches, a childlike sense of exploration can be found here. There is no need to over-plan or over-schedule when you are planning to travel to Costa Rica, as some of the most beautiful moments here catch you by surprise. Seeing the most dazzling sun setting over deep indigo waters, or hearing whales calling to each other in the ocean. Not just catching a glimpse of a monkey as in a zoo, but seeing an entire family feeding together from a mango tree in their natural habitat. This appreciation for life is woven into the very culture of Costa Rica, reminding us that everything is “pura vida” as they say. This is used both as a greeting, a goodbye, or to communicate that something is all good. Pura Vida translates as pure life!
In 2022 I made a big shift, moving from the busy city of Atlanta into a small town in the middle of the Costa Rican jungle. It was a leap of faith and there were definitely some adjustments in the beginning, but since moving here, my appreciation for this country has only grown. Both for what it has brought me and my spirit in terms of reconnecting with nature, but also getting to enjoy the lifestyle that is available here. This can vary depending on the region or time of year, but there is a reason that Costa Rica is included on the list of Blue Zone territories. Getting to enjoy fresh coffee or cacao straight from the land, with a real-life soundtrack of jungle birds singing in the background, is an amazing way to start the day. Let alone enjoying fresh fruit straight off the trees! Or catching up on emails from a laptop in an open cafe, with a beautiful river view and a fresh smoothie. Much of the food is grown locally, so everything is fresh and full of flavor, especially compared to the fruits and vegetables I was used to getting back in the city. There is quite a strong mindfulness community here as well, so activities such as yoga, chi gong, and martial arts are common. Who knew you could train jiu-jitsu or aerial yoga in the jungle! The community itself is also quite strong, and Costa Ricans as a whole are some of the kindest people I have ever met in my life. They understand the intricacies of living in a small community. If someone or a family is in need, everyone lends a hand.
For those who wish to experience Pura Vida but like to keep moving, there is plenty of adventure to be had here as well! Surfing culture is alive and well in Costa Rica, especially along the southern coast. There are beaches and waves friendly both for beginners and for the more experienced. Other ocean activities such as scuba diving, free diving, and snorkeling are also common depending on the time of year. Heading into land, the hiking opportunities are abundant. Many people choose to hike to waterfalls to take a cool dip with an amazing view.
Or, one of the benefits of being in a place where the jungle and mountains meets the sea, you can also get panoramic views and cool temperatures up in the mountains. Some of the most beautiful clear starry nights I have experienced have been in these mountains. If you like a view, even better, you can even see the jungle from above with a zip line! Whatever your intention, if your desire is to connect to nature and revitalize a sense of adventure or purpose, Costa Rica is calling.
