Pura Vida, the expression that sums up the Costa Rican way of life.
When I was still a student, I had the opportunity to spend several months in Costa Rica to do an internship in a company producing and exporting tropical plants. This country, renowned for its exceptional biodiversity and warm culture, was the ideal setting to combine work and discovery. During this stay, I had the chance to live at the heart of local life, staying with a family in Palmares, a charming village nestled in the mountains, not far from San José, the capital where I landed. Pura Vida is a phrase you will hear every day and simply respond to Pura Vida.
Living in Palmares: An Authentic Cultural Immersion
Palmares is a quaint little town that offered me a total immersion in Costa Rican culture. The family that welcomed me was incredibly generous, sharing not only their roof but also their traditions, their cuisine, and their stories. This daily life allowed me to discover the true soul of Costa Rica, far from the tourist trails, and to appreciate every moment spent in this community. The nature was superb and I regularly came across magnificent flowers (they have more than 1400 species) and colorful birds.
The organization of meals is quite random. One of the rare meals taken as a family was the Sunday meal where the whole family was invited (from grandchildren to grandparents, uncles and aunts. The rest of the week, in the kitchen, there was always a pot full of rice and plantains and everyone helped themselves when they were hungry.
I also remember that one evening, I had already had dinner and someone came to pick me up and told me that we were going to a restaurant: well, I kept it light: a Costa Rican ceviche and a tres leches cake as a starter. dessert!
I also attended a funeral: unlike our culture, everyone is dressed colorfully to convey joy and not sorrow. The funeral takes place with music and many smiles.
Exploring the Arenal Volcano
During my stay, I was able to visit the Arenal Volcano. Located in Arenal National Park, this majestic volcano is surrounded by dense rainforest and full of trails offering spectacular panoramas. I had the chance to see the breathtaking landscapes and relax in the natural hot springs which are said to have calming properties. It was a wonderful moment of connection with nature.
The Magic of Turtle Laying
Another highlight of my trip was watching turtles nesting on the coast. Seeing these ancient sea creatures emerge from the ocean to lay their eggs in the sand is a captivating and moving spectacle. This event, which takes place mainly at night, offers a lesson in resilience and the continuity of life that leaves no one indifferent. Witnessing this natural phenomenon reinforced my respect for environmental preservation, an essential aspect of Costa Rican culture. Unfortunately I was not able to take photos on the day of the laying, because we left very quickly, leaving clothes and cameras at the office. I will keep these memories deep in my memory.
Conclusion: A Transformative Experience
My internship in Costa Rica and life in Palmares was much more than just a professional experience. They allowed me to discover the beauty of a country where nature, culture and the warm welcome of the inhabitants blend harmoniously. Every moment spent exploring Costa Rica, whether at the base of the Arenal Volcano, on the beach watching turtles, in the mountains and lush jungle of Palmares, has enriched my life and brought new perspectives.
