My first impressions of Costa Rica were that people were more leisurely compared to America and wanted to seek their passion. I sense that they had an equal balance of work, passion, and environmental conservation. From the moment we landed in Costa Rica, people have a strong values regarding nature, passion, and family. This mindset is commonly captured by the phrase. We often hear “Pura Vida” which translates to pure life. This phrase reflects a relaxed and positive approach to daily life. This mindset was seen in our company visits and activities.
We visited a zip lining company called Parque de Aventura. While it may not resemble a traditional corporate office, the operation demonstrated strong organizational structure, customer service, and safety standards. Employees really emphasized the importance of teamwork and guest experience rather than rushing participants through the activity. The employees were very kind and helpful throughout the entire activity. I also became friends with a few of the employees and make jokes along the way with them! The business model showed how Costa Rican companies successfully integrate environmental responsibility with profitability, using the country’s natural resources in a sustainable and respectful way.
We visited La Fortuna, a waterfall that was entirely community-run, which offered insight into Costa Rica’s values. Members of the community were directly involved in maintaining the site and ensuring the preservation of the surrounding environment. This experience highlighted the importance of collective responsibility and local ownership. Rather than large-scale commercialization, the focus was on protecting natural resources while creating economic opportunities for residents.
I noticed several differences between doing business in the United States and Costa Rica. In Costa Rica, business interactions feel more personal and less transactional, with an emphasis on relationships and trust. Time is approached more flexibly, also known as “tico time”, and success is measured not only by financial outcomes but also by the social and environmental impact. U.S. business culture tends to prioritize efficiency, speed, and individual performance. Overall, Costa Rica’s approach offers a more meaningful connection that balances economic activity with cultural values.
