Pura Vida

By Harry Alvarez| January 5, 2022

Pura Vida. It is more than a tourism tagline. It is a cultural phenomenon that has made Costa Rica one of my favorite places to travel to. Pura Vida captures the essence and accomplishments of Costa Rica. 

Pura Vida is the nature you’re constantly surrounded by and the appreciation of it that is ingrained in Costa Ricans. Environmentalism and a genuine care for the environment are part of Costa Rican culture. It is not forced, it’s part of life. If you dare to litter you better be ready for the consequences. This has made it possible for Costa Rica to maintain its lush rainforest, precious biodiversity, pristine coasts, and clean atmosphere. It has also made it one of the world leaders in environmentalism, which was most recently recognized by the Paris Accords. 

Pura Vida is an investment in social programs instead of an Army. In universal health care for its people. It’s why Costa Rica ranks among the countries in Latin America with the highest investment in public education. 

Pura Vida is the lifestyle. It is why Costa Rica is commonly high on the list of countries with the highest rates of happiness. 

Pura Vida is the first sip of coffee in the morning, the smile from the person that served it to you, and the feeling you get when you first taste it. 

How do you use the term Pura Vida? It's easy.

How was your day? Pura Vida.

How's your mom doing? Pura Vida.

I want to travel to Costa Rica. Pura Vida!

So come experience Pura Vida yourself!