¡Pura Vida!

Pura Vida

Here in Costa Rica, there’s an expression that you’ll frequently hear. Either as a greeting or a thanks, you’ll hear, “¡Pura Vida!” The translation is Pure Life, and it means to not worry about the things that you cannot change. You must live in the moment and be thankful for what’s in front of you. It has quickly become one of my favorite things to say in Spanish. Followed closely by supermercado, la ventura, and claro que si.

This morning I woke up early to take pictures around Santa Elena and to find a coffee shop to try some Costa Rican brew. This little town has grown on me. The people are so kind and the shops are endearing. The roads are absolutely horrible. And if it’s any indication of how much of a social butterfly I am, I walked to the grocery store and had two locals call me by name and say hello. “Hola, Santos! Como estas? Ah, muy bien, gracias. ¡Pura Vida!” Makin’ friends everywhere.

A couple of weeks before I left Dallas, I was telling my mom how I always fall for guys who ride motorcycles. Well, just look at all the opportunities!! 😉 kidding.

Pura Vida

Today was my last full day in Monteverde, and I just didn’t feel like I got all of my cloud forest experience out. So I went to reception and booked a ticket to the Santa Elena Conservation Park. Best decision ever. I’ve never experienced hiking like this in my life.

According to my Fitbit, I hiked almost 9.5 miles (lawd knows how many meters that is) and 190 flights of stairs. 

Pura Vida

At one point, I heard the most terrifying howl somewhere in the midst of the forest. At just that moment, an older man with binoculars around his neck appeared on the trail.  I inquired about the sound. He said, “Oh, those are howler monkeys.”

Oh, awesome. Just how I like my monkeys: close and howling. ¡Pura Vida!

Hi, I’m so glad you’re on my site! My name is Meagan, and I write about my traveling adventures and finding beauty in each day. For more info about me, click here!

Meagan Tilley

I believe that every day is a day that matters – even just enjoying the little things. Whether that’s traveling to the top cities across the world or binge watching Gilmore Girls. To read more, click the About Me page!

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4 Comments

  1. Suzy Olesch

    Beautiful pictures except the creepy crawly things.

    Reply
    • Meagan Tilley

      Haha not a fan of the creepy crawly things either!

      Reply
  2. Sara @ Of Golden Roses

    When I was in Costa Rica I really learned that Pura Vida was more than just a saying, it was a way of life. It was a phrase that really stuck with me!

    Reply
    • Meagan Tilley

      I love the phrase! Definitely stuck with me as well.

      Reply

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