"Living the Good Life" can mean many different things to many different people but here in Costa Rica where it is referred to as Pura Vida, it means a slower pace of living, not getting in a hurry and "taking time to smell the roses" as we say in America. It is often used as a greeting in a way to say "Life is wonderful I have no worries" or to wish someone to have a good day or good life!
Living in Costa Rica is an adventure that begins with a new chapter each day. I love enjoy a hot steaming cup of Costa Rican coffee in the morning and take a nice long walk on the beach, breath in the fresh air of the Pacific and take color bursting photographs of the incredible flowers, landscape, beautiful birds, unique animals and amazing people.
One of the most exciting things about living in Costa Rica is that the simplest outing to the bank and grocery store can turn into an afternoon of the most engrossing entertainment! Of course when you are as adventuresome as we are you tend to stray off the beaten path to explore for new and interesting sites.
On this day as we were taking care of those daily tasks we came upon a group of Pelicans in the bay at Los Suenos. I had actually ventured over to take a photo of the beautiful cove and the waves crashing on the rocks. And there they were....these massive birds with their long beautiful bills gracefully sitting on the water. They did not sit long and as they lifted up my first thought was that they were going to fly away. And then the show began...........
They would fly in a circular pattern with the grace of an elegant aerial ballet and then pause midair and plunge down into the water. After resting there momentarily they would repeat the show again and again! It was so fascinating that I could not stop watching and clicking away! We watched for quiet a while and I wondered just how long they could continue this intriguing pattern of flight. I assume that they were feasting on the fish of the sea with each swoop.
FOR BETTER VIEWING CLICK PHOTOS TO ENLARGE.
There is just something so peaceful about a bird in flight.
I hope that you enjoyed the "dance" as much as we did!
Pura Vida, used by Costa Ricans means "Pure Life." It is used as a greeting, a farewell, and to express satisfaction. Costa Ricans use the phrase to express a philosophy of strong community, perseverance, good spirits, enjoying life slowly, celebrating good fortune, whether small or large. And that is exactly what I have been doing for the last three weeks! Enjoying the good life slowly!
The area in Costa Rica where we enjoy the pura vida is at Playa Bejuco is on the Pacific side just south of the surfer town of Jaco and Hermosa. A four hour flight into San Jose and a roller coaster 2 hour ride over the mountain on a very curvy two lane road is rewarded with breathtaking views of the mountains and valleys covered with beautiful rain forests and coffee plantations.
One of the first stops we like to make is at one of the many fruit stands to stock up on fresh fruit and vegetables! Papaya, mango, avacodo, limons, and melons are just a few of the juicy treats you can find here. I guess you can tell that one of my favorite things to do in Costa Rica is EAT! The food is just bursting with flavor and so o o o o FRESH! One of our favorite meals is a Casado,a typical Costa Rica meal consisting of rice, beans,fried plantains, salad, a tortilla, and an entree of choice that may include chicken, beef or pork.
My second favorite thing is the PEOPLE! (Roll your mouse over photos for descriptions)
And don't forget the animals! Better known as FAUNA. Some warm and furry.... Some feathery and chatty......
And some that you prefer to observe from afar!.... And there is always the......"What in the heck is that?" species! Mans best friend wherever you go....the Costa Rican PERRO! And of course the product of the rainforest the beautiful flora with gorgeous bursts of color!
Don't forget the SUNSETS!
There is always something to do in Costa Rica! Swimming, Surfing, Hiking through the Rain forest, Canopy Tours with Zip Lines and Bridge walks thru the trees, Waterfall, Volcano and Coffee Plantation tours, Island tours, Fishing, Beach walks, ATV & Horseback riding, Rafting, Kayaking, Soaking in the Hot Springs or just lying in a hammock.
If you are thinking of a trip to Costa Rica consider staying at Costa del Sol. It is a great neighborhood that includes a nice mix of homeowners from all over the world! It is just a short walk to the beach and conveniently located between Jaco and Manuel Antonio.
Pura Vida, used by Costa Ricans means "Pure Life." It is used as a greeting, a farewell, and to express satisfaction. Costa Ricans use the phrase to express a philosophy of strong community, perseverance, good spirits, enjoying life slowly, celebrating good fortune, whether small or large.
