Pura Vida on a Budget: How to Make it Worthwhile in Paradise.
By Silvanna Pacheco, April 17th, 2024
Costa Rica is the postcard-perfect paradise of rainforests, volcanoes and beautiful beaches attracting many travelers with its “pura vida” vibe. Visitors do bring essential revenue to the country, but they can also inflate prices, especially in popular areas. For budget travelers and even locals some areas turn out to be very expensive to visit.
Here are some tips to make the most out of your Pura Vida experience:
Travel during Green Season: Because the green season is the shoulder season for tourism in Costa Rica, you can find significant savings on flights and accommodations. The Green Season goes from May to November. With fewer tourists around, you’ll also have a more relaxed and enjoyable experience. Popular attractions won’t be as crowded, and you’ll have more opportunities to interact with the locals.
Green season is also the rainy season which brings lush and greener landscapes. The rainforests are at their most vibrant, and the waterfalls are cascading at full force. The increased rainfall also means that the wildlife is more active, so you’re more likely to see animals like monkeys, sloths, and toucans.
Escape the Tourist Trail: Popular destinations are great, but don’t be afraid to venture off the beaten path. Smaller towns and villages boast a laid-back atmosphere, stunning natural beauty, and a chance to immerse yourself in the authentic Costa Rican way of life. You’ll be rewarded with more affordable lodging, delicious local restaurants and more unique activities.
Embrace Local Eats: Visit small local restaurants. These are casual and welcoming. Don’t be surprised to see locals catching up over coffee or families enjoying a hearty lunch. These restaurants serve authentic Costa Rican cuisine at a fraction of the price. Think gallo pinto (rice and beans), fresh seafood dishes, and tropical fruits. The star of the show is usually the “casado,” a traditional Costa Rican plate featuring rice and beans, a protein like grilled chicken or fish, a fresh salad, and fried plantains (platanos maduros). Check out this list of some of the best foods and sodas you can find in Costa Rica.
Focus on Experiences: By investing in experiences, you’ll take home memories that will last a lifetime. Costa Rica is a place where you can truly connect with nature, challenge yourself, and learn about a different way of life.
Pura Vida isn’t just about luxury resorts. It’s about slowing down, appreciating nature’s beauty, and connecting with the warm Costa Rican culture. By planning strategically and embracing a more local experience, you can create an unforgettable Costa Rican adventure without emptying your wallet.
Pages
- Discover the Untouched Beauty of Drake Bay, Costa Rica.
- Retiring in Costa Rica: A Paradise Found.
- Top 5 Costa Rican Coffee Destinations
- A Journey Through Alajuela: Where History Meets Nature.
- Follow the Cacao Trail – Travel to the Caribbean Coast of Costa Rica
- A Morning Cup Of Nature: Treat Yourself Monteverde Style.
- A Greener Future For Costa Rica.
- Beyond the Postcard: Visiting Arenal Volcano and La Fortuna.
- Sustainable Travel to Costa Rica.
- Exploring Costa Rica During the Rainy Season.
- Unveiling the cheesy secrets of Santa Cruz, Turrialba.
- Hotel Fleur de Lys: Swiss hospitality in the heart of San Jose.
- Pura Vida on a Budget: How to Make it Worthwhile in Paradise.
- Conquering the Clouds: A Day Trip to Irazu Volcano National Park.
- Costa Rica: A Stage for the Breathtaking Acrobatics of Humpback Whales
- The Beginning of the Dry Season in Costa Rica.
- North Pacific beaches – Where to go and what to do.
- Local Food – Dishes you are most likely to try when visiting Costa Rica.
- Luxury Travel – Visit the Four Seasons Costa Rica
- Packing essentials for your trip to Costa Rica.
- Visit Cartago, a city of traditions and religion.
- La Paz Waterfall Gardens: The perfect family day trip!
- Coffee: A Costa Rican Adventure!