As I arrived in Costa Rica, it quickly became clear that daily life and business are approached with a different mindset than in the United States. Before the trip, we were told that “pura vida” is a major part of Costa Rican culture but experiencing it firsthand showed me that it is not just a saying, but a way of life. In the U.S., there is often a strong emphasis on looking good. In Costa Rica, however, the emphasis seems to be on actually feeling good, building relationships, and enjoying everyday interactions.
I noticed immediately when I met my host family. The grandson asked me right away if I played soccer, because he is on the court for nearly six hours a day. Soccer quickly became a way to connect, even without knowing each other well. Once I played, I was instantly welcomed into the group and friends with everyone I met. Then to add to that, our host mom greeted every single person we passed while walking down the street. Even brief greetings created a sense of connection, unlike the U.S. where people often pass by without acknowledging one another. These interactions showed how relationships and friendliness are central to Costa Rican culture.
One of our early cultural activities involved making homemade Costa Rican food. This created a space for storytelling and connection. Coming from a Salvadoran background, I found this especially meaningful because food plays a similar role in my own culture. Meals are not rushed, but are instead used as opportunities to bond, reflect, and enjoy time together.
From a business perspective, our visit to Toucan Rescue Ranch was very impactful. The people emphasized storytelling over simply selling a product or experience. Each animal had a story, and the business focused on educating visitors about ethical practices, including why tourists should not take selfies with animals. This approach reflects how Costa Rican businesses often prioritize ethics and emotional connection while still working to grow and raise funds.
Finally, Costa Rica is beautiful with lots of greenery. Visiting Jacó Beach, with its warm water and sunny skies, made it easy to understand how the pura vida lifestyle makes sense. Overall, my initial experiences have shown me that in Costa Rica, both culture and business are rooted in connection, balance, and genuinely feeling good, not just appearing successful.
