by Libby Thornton
“Pura vida” by direct translation means pure life, but for the people in Costa Rica it is so much more.
After traveling through Costa Rica for ten days over Spring Break, one of the biggest standouts to me was the genuine kindness of the Costa Ricans (Ticos) and the immense pride they have in their country. I believe this all goes back to the phrase pura vida that defines their outlook on life.
When you are on Tico Time you do not have to worry, rush, or cry, because life is beautiful, something to experience, not something to speed through.
On our first day, a small group that I was in traveled to Manuel Antonio National Park and Nauyaca Waterfall Nature Park. We hired a guide for the day, who gave us incredible insight not only into the diverse wildlife and history of Costa Rica, but also introduced us to the pura vida mindset.
One of the ways he described pura vida was by comparing it to Hakuna Matata from Disney’s “The Lion King.”
Immediately the verse, “It means no worries, for the rest of your days,” played in my head. But, as he continued to describe the significance, and as our group witnessed for the rest of our time in Costa Rica, pura vida is much more personal than a silly song.
Pura vida is a greeting. Sometimes instead of hearing words like “Hola,” “Buenas,” or “Adios” from cashiers or restaurant workers, we would hear the phrase “Pura Vida.”
Pura vida is also a way to describe something positively: “The weather is pura vida for surfing.”
But, most notable, pura vida is a feeling of happiness despite trials, and joy despite chaos. One that you cannot experience unless you have seen it within the Ticos and been welcomed in.
But don’t worry, adapting to the Tico lifestyle is not difficult, and it happens quickly after the plane touches down.
Ticos take genuine joy in showing off their country. They want you to experience the rich biodiversity and learn everything you can during your stay.
They want to bring you in and will not hesitate to help you find the way if you are lost. And, if you are anything like me, they will have you not wanting to leave!
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