If you ever travel to Costa Rica, you can’t legally enter the country without knowing the principles of pura vida. You are given a 30-minute test on the topic where you should gain at least…

OK, now seriously. Your trip to Costa Rica will be deeper and more meaningful if you know the concept that explains pretty much everything in Costa Rica. It is also better than any souvenir that you can bring back home – a new lifestyle to make you happier. Aren’t Costa Ricans geniuses?

What does pura vida mean?

It is an expression every Costa Rican uses several times a day. Pura vida literally translates as “pure life” or “simple life” but it’s much more than this. It’s the art of living a happy and worry-free life, the concept of taking things as they are and not trying to change them by all means, the deep respect for nature, family and the important things in life. You will be able to indulge in the pura vida lifestyle if you spend some time in Costa Rica and look at the facial expressions of people when they hear these words. It’s the way ticos (people from Costa Rica) remind each other that life is to be enjoyed.

Where does the phrase pura vida come from

Most probably the phrase came with the Mexican movie “Pura vida” shown in Costa Rica in the 1950s. The main character goes from trouble to trouble but keeps his optimistic view saying “pura vida”. Although the phrase didn’t have immediate success, it became part of the everyday language nationwide by the end of 1970s.

How to use pura vida

– Hi, Maria, how are you?

– Pura vida.

or

– Pura vida?

– I’m fine!

or

– She is so pura vida!

This simple. Pura vida can be a greeting, a way to say “excellent” or “easy-going”. The most important thing is to accept it with your heart. If soemthing doesn’t turn out like you expected – pura vida! If someone doesn’t show up for your meeting – pura vida! If you have food for dinner – that’s also pura vida! If you meet a friend on the street – pura vida again.

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1. Luxury Club Offerings

When you’re taking an international vacation, you’re being given a perfect opportunity to explore a brand-new side of yourself. Why not share that adventure with other, brand-new friends? With many of the choices out there, you can get a Costa Rica villa that includes a chef, and a luxury club setting where you can enjoy your socially-thrilling dining. After you’ve had your fill of great cuisine, you can hop on over to an area with a more party-heavy feel, and start meeting fellow vacationers who will become your best friends during your time in beautiful Costa Rica. You’ll have a great time enjoying all the friendship, drinks, and food your villa has to offer.

2. Poolside Social Settings

A luxury Costa Rican villa is not complete without a comfortable, luxurious poolside area. Not only can you bathe in warm waters, but you can often swim up to bars, and order poolside food as well. If you’re looking to tan, socialize or simply enjoy a relaxing dip, you’ll be right at home in a quality villa resort. Many pools are designed for maximum aesthetic awe and comfort as well, which will make them that much more impressive. If you want a trip that’s out of this world, you need to invest in a trip to a top-tier Costa Rican villa resort.

3. Group Tours and Guides

If you want an excellent way to meet people and explore simultaneously, you’ll want to ask your villa’s full-time staff about possible group tours and guided adventures. You can explore the country’s coolest spots while staying safe, and making tons of new friends along the way. Every new tour you go on will have something unique to offer you, after all. Just make sure you let your concierge know about tours that sound interesting to you, and they can handle the rest (more on this later on).

4. Massage and Spa Services

Once you’ve met some new friends or a potential romance, you should take full advantage of the stellar massage and spa services your villa is sure to offer. Waxing, massages, manicures, and many other fantastic spa services will be at your disposal, so feel free to get adventurous. If you’ve never enjoyed a spa visit before, be ready to discover a new obsession. Thankfully, you’ll have the ability to enjoy the spa’s services at practically anytime while you’re staying at the Costa Rican villa resort of your choosing.

5. Gourmet Food Parites

Outside of your typical daily meals, many villa resorts offer full-resort parties where gourmet food and drinks are abundant. This hearty atmosphere is perfect for those that need a lively vibe to feel confident socializing. If you’re interested in being set up with some fellow resort goers, ask your concierge if they know of anyone looking for extra company. Doing so can help you put yourself out there, and allow you to find friends and comrades who will boost your Costa Rican villa vacation that much more.

6. Full-Time Maid Services

If you’re outside socializing, you won’t have time to constantly clean up after yourself. Due to this, villas take care of their customer by offering every party a full-time maid service. Not only can this allow you to relax to the fullest, but it will ensure that your room is always ready to host a party. With this possibility opened up, you can more easily become the life of the party at your villa resort.

7. Personal Concierge

Trying to handle all the plans revolving around transportation, tours, socializing, parties, and weekly events can be overwhelming. When you’re on vacation, the last thing you want to do is become stressed about planning and staying in touch with current events happening on-site. Thankfully, quality Costa Rican villa resorts provide each guest with a personal concierge to handle these tasks. Sit back, tell them about your interests, and they will keep you both informed and prepared for all the best events on-site.

Time to Expand Your Dream Vacation

With new friends and acquaintances, you can take full advantage of all the amazing features and food your villa resort has to offer. Each of the seven qualities we’ve discussed above can help support you as you explore Costa Rica, and live out a dream vacation that you’ve been looking forward to for years.

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Here are our favorite picks of local wisdom:

Pura vida in Costa Rica

Pura vida simply translated in English is “pure life”, but the phrase actually has a far deeper meaning. Costa Ricans use it to say hello, to say bye or as an answer to the question “How are you?”. Pura vida is in fact a way of life, where you accept that no matter how difficult, your life is not that bad at all.

>>> Read more about Pura vida.

Dolce far niente in Italy

Dolce far niente literally means “sweet doing nothing” and the Italians, especially in the southern part of the country, know how to turn idleness into a happy occupation. This philosophy of life contains a number of important prohibitions, such as no haste, no taking problems to heart and no paying attention to the surrounding nuisance.

>>> Read more about Dolce far niente.

Hakuna matata in Africa

Thanks to the animated film “The Lion King” everybody knows a bit of Swahili. Hakuna matata means “no problem”, “no worries”. The phrase is used mainly in Kenya and Zanzibar and is mentioned in the famous “Jambo Bwana” song.

Tri Hita Karana in Bali

If harmony means happiness, then this philosophy of life from Bali will help you achieve it. In English, Tri Hita Karana means “three reasons for well-being” – being in harmony with people, in harmony with God and in harmony with nature.

Aylyak in Bulgaria

Aylyak is an untranslatable Bulgarian word which can be roughly translated as “the art of doing everything at a relaxed pace without worrying about anything”. The Aylyak lifestyle is mainly typical for the residents of the city of Plovdiv famous for taking long, leisurely walks back and forth along their main pedestrian street.

>>> Read more about aylyak.

Fernweh in Germany

English doesn’t have an antonym of “nostalgia” but in German it’s Fernweh. It means a strong desire for traveling, dreaming of far and unknown lands and new experiences. So give in to your Fernweh and hit the road.

Friluftsliv in Norway

There’s no such thing as bad weather, only inappropriate clothing. True to this principle, the Norwegians are fans of Friluftsliv or life in “free” air (“open-air living”). The northern country’s inhabitants appreciate the benefits of spending time in the open for health and well-being, regardless of weather conditions. Whether it is running, cycling or just going out to the park nearby to take some photos – the important thing is to breathe fresh air.

Wabi-Sabi in Japan

Salvador Dali once said “Have no fear of perfection – you’ll never reach it”. This is exactly what the Japanese idea Wabi-Sabi tries to convey. In English it means “accept imperfection” and applies to the individual body and character, friends and life in general.

The post 8 philosophies of a happy life from around the world appeared first on 203Challenges.

1. Iceland

Escape from reality on a majestical Iceland cruise. Iceland is known for its glaciers, waterfalls, hot springs, and views of the Northern Lights.  Bathing in hot springs is believed to promote relaxation, restoration and healing. 

Studies have even called it the secret to happiness. Choose from natural or artificial, large or small, quiet or busy.

Aside from hot springs, the capital city Reykjavik draws many tourists. You can easily walk around to explore the restaurants, museums and shops. Another sight to see is Vatnajökull, the largest glacier in Europe. The Northern Lights are best seen between September and March, making this a popular time to travel to Iceland.

Pack your swimsuit and camera for this trip of a lifetime. Photograph the glaciers, the hot springs, the wild roaming Icelandic horses and the Northern Lights! The breathtaking views in Iceland will be ones you’ll remember for the rest of your life!

2. Turks and Caicos

Choose to dive in the turquoise waters or sunbathe on the white sands of Turks and Caicos on a relaxing vacation. This tropical island boasts fantastic beaches, superb scuba diving and sportfishing. You can stay in great all-inclusive resorts or opt for quiet villas.

You can spend your days soaking up the sun and the breathtaking scenic views from a beach chair with your favorite tropical drink. Watersports, golfing and exploring the islands are all options for those who want to do more than relax oceanside.

3. Italy

If you’re looking for a romantic getaway, look no further. Take an evening gondola ride through the canals of Venice snuggled up with your significant other. Taste wines and eat delicious meals along the Tuscan wine trail. Put a lock on the Ponte Vecchio and throw away the key to signify your love. Dip in the Blue Grotto along the Amalfi Coast.

Sightseeing could quickly fill your days if you desire a more active vacation. The Colosseum, Leaning Tower of Pisa, Vatican City, the ruins of Pompeii, the Trevi Fountain, the Pantheon and the Sistine Chapel are just a few examples of desired destinations.

4. Grand Canyon

Prepare to be amazed by the magnificent enormity of the Grand Canyon. Most visitors choose to visit the South Rim for sightseeing and trail hiking. This is probably due to Grand Canyon Village and the highly touted views from Yavapai Point, home to the Grand Canyon’s best view. The Bright Angel Trail is a fantastic path with extraordinary views. The North Rim is quieter and the perfect place for camping in the words or some serious hikes.

5. Costa Rica

Visit this Central American gem for an action-packed, memorable adventure. From beaches to rainforests, Costa Rica has it all. You can relax on beaches, but you’ll also want to allow time to explore all this country has to offer.

Thrill-seekers must be sure to book an afternoon of ziplining, where you will surely get a rush of adrenaline as you soar through the rainforest. Mountain biking, horseback riding, hiking, surfing and catamaran tours are popular outdoor activities.

6. Ireland

The capital, Dublin, is filled with pubs, shops and delicious food. It’s the perfect spot for those looking for great nightlife. Grab a pint at a notorious pub, like Temple Bar or The Brazen Head. Ireland is home to the Guinness Storehouse and the Jameson Distillery, both of which offer lovely guided tours.

Major tourist attractions include the Blarney Castle (be sure to kiss the Blarney Stone!), Powerscourt Estate, Trinity College and Giant’s Causeway. The Wild Atlantic Way is a winding, scenic tour filled with beautiful landscapes for photography enthusiasts. Renting a car enhances the experience. Along the way, you’ll want to stop to see the famous Cliffs of Moher.

There are so many amazing vacation destinations in the world. The hardest part is choosing where to go! 

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The Country Offers a Special Visa for Retirees

When researching your options for retirement, some people are discouraged from seeking refuge in other countries from the long and complicated bureaucratic processes to establish themselves overseas. However, doing proper research on the subject brings you right to Costa Rica. Their government understands the appealing nature of its land and people, and they offer different resident options tailored specifically for retirees. You can either opt for the Pensionado Program, in which you need to show proof of receiving at least $1,000 per month from your retirement funds, or go with the Rentista program if you have at least $60,000 in your bank when applying, or you’re earning $2,500 per month for at least 2 years. Every two years you’ll need to renovate your participation in the program with a $100 fee, and once you’ve successfully gone through three cycles, you are entitled to apply for permanent residency. You can either continue with the program or go with the option of settling permanently in Costa Rica, depending on what’s more convenient for your situation.

Excellent Real Estate Investment Opportunities

People interested in retiring to Costa Rica have another way to ensure their ticket to paradise. The government offers a program for investors where they can invest a minimum of $200,000 into a business or property in the country. However, these need to be previously authorized to be eligible for the program, which you can check beforehand through an allied website or the consulate to know about the investment’s requirements. This option is great for couples since one spouse can prove their purchasing power and the other can apply as a dependent for the process. Even if you decide to return to your country after living in Costa Rica, the rising demand for properties in the country for other retirees and tourists looking to rent can become an attractive opportunity for any real estate investor.

Affordable and Relaxed Lifestyle

The idea behind packing your things and moving to another country can sound expensive, but the reality is completely the opposite if you know how to budget. On one hand, you get to enjoy the breathtaking nature the country has to offer, with exciting outdoor activities and great care for their environment. With pleasant temperatures all year-round, there’s almost no reason to worry about the cold. Most importantly, many people have gone through the process and lived comfortably with their saved funds without worrying excessively about their expenses, since the cost of living in Costa Rica is much more affordable than in the U.S. or Canada. A single person needs on average $18,000 per year, and a couple can easily adjust their spending to $30,000 annually if they don’t mind cutting down some expenses. As you can see, the cost of entry is fairly low in contrast to the scene back home, and in addition to this, you get access to a universal healthcare system with a monthly fee based on your current income. If you’re willing to give up some exported goods, avoid going out to restaurants often, and looking to live in areas away from the most populated cities, you can easily afford a good lifestyle in Costa Rica.

Living in another country during your golden years can be an attractive option for many retirees, especially considering the low cost of entry required to apply and live in Costa Rica. The biggest advantage here is that you can choose to rent for the first few years to travel around the country before settling down or go straight with a property or business investment if your financial situation allows it. The country offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to experience a new lifestyle and enjoy your retirement in a blissful, paradisaical place surrounded by people in a similar situation as you. If you start planning now, there’s nothing stopping you from practice pura vida and be happy in Costa Rica!

The post Here’s Why You Might Want to Retire to Costa Rica appeared first on 203Challenges.

Whether you choose vibrant Limon city surrounded by beautiful greenery, the historical and white gravelly city of Liberia, or Costa Rica’s vibrant capital San Jose, you’re sure to have an unforgettable adventure. But if you want to experience something extra special, plan your visit during Semana Santa.

What is Semana Santa?

Semana Santa is the Easter holiday and is one of the biggest yearly celebrations. Classed as a holy week, schools are closed, and many Costa Ricans are off work. It’s a week-long period of celebrations – beginning on Palm Sunday and ending on Easter Sunday – making it popular time with tourists, too. This means that going on holiday to Costa Rica during March may cost you a little more. However, it’s worth it to witness the events and festivities!

Religious Celebrations

The week of Semana Santa is a riot of color, parades, processions and festivals. Held in cities across the country, the main celebrations take place on Thursday, Friday and Easter Sunday.

On Maundy Thursday, there are special services held in Catholic churches to mark Passover. But it’s on Friday that the real spirit of Semana Santa begins. On this day, you can witness colourful processions as locals come out to watch re-enactments of Jesus being mounted on the cross. It’s a serious and deeply religious affair, with mourners gathering and prayers said as biblical stories are portrayed.

These events lead up to a giant celebration on Easter Sunday. The end of Lent, fasts are broken, locals begin their feasts, there is cheer in the streets and church bells ring out.

Taste Traditional Foods

For tourists, one of the highlights for Semana Santa is the food – it’s a great opportunity to sample traditional cuisine. You’ll find a lot of seafood, particularly shrimp and fried fish, as well as a delicious array of desserts, with the most popular being empanadas (a type of sweet stuffed pastry) made using a seasonal squash called chiverre.

Things to Consider

If you go to Costa Rica during Semana Santa, there are a few things to remember.

Firstly, the sale of alcohol is often limited. In some places, it’s not sold for 48 hours, from midnight on Wednesday to midnight on Friday. Each county does have its own rules, so it’s worth checking before booking. Although in cities and busy tourist areas, this is likely to be less of an issue!

In addition, a lot of local businesses and banks close during this period. However, tourism focused places generally remain open.

Lastly, March is a very hot month for Costa Rica, with highs of up to 37 degrees Celsius! So, remember to pack your sun cream, spend time in the shade and drink plenty of fluids – that means water, not just alcohol!

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