Head to Costa Rica for a Getaway

Most of us are living life in the fast lane. We know that an all-work and no-play mindset makes for dull living, but some of us can’t help but adopt it because of how busy we are. With so much on our plate, who has time for a breather?

If you’re looking to take a break from your concrete jungle, it’s time you go on a vacation! Despite your inner workaholic telling you to stay put, it is okay to get away from work every now and then.

University of Tampere postdoctoral research fellow Jessica De Bloom shares in a study that taking shorter vacations on a frequent basis is a healthy approach. If you feel guilty about taking a few days off to unwind, don’t! We deserve some time away from our busy lives.

Looking for a great vacation spot? Give Costa Rica a try! This Central American gem has earned its name (which means “rich coast,” by the way) because of its lush and diverse scenery. Once you set foot in the country, you’ll feel like you’re living life straight out of a postcard because of how picturesque it is. You’ll also find plenty of things to do in the Country of Eternal Spring.

Why Costa Rica? Read on to find out more.

#1: Get your dose of sunny and sandy fun.

Going by the cover photo, you can tell that Costa Rica has amazing beaches in store for everyone. That’s Playa Santa Teresa — the most popular beach in Santa Teresa, a quiet beach town on the country’s Nicoya Peninsula.

Surfers and beach bums will enjoy Costa Rica’s Pacific and Caribbean offerings. The former has an abundance of palm trees, which naturally look spectacular with its turquoise waters. Because of that, this side is home to the majority of the country’s tourism.

The latter offers different vibes because of its laid-back atmosphere despite the area’s rapid growth. And since it’s in the Caribbean, this side has Rastafarian influences, which contribute to the relaxed atmosphere.

#2: See trees of green and more.

Costa Rica is a nature lover’s paradise. Beaches aren’t the only natural wonders the country has to offer; its forests, mountains, jungles, and other landscapes are worth checking out as well.

Fun fact: 25% of Costa Rica’s national reserves and parks are protected in order to preserve the country’s lush surroundings. Another interesting tidbit? 5% of the planet’s biodiversity resides in the country. Given those facts, there’s plenty of greenery for folks to enjoy.

As of writing, the country has 27 national parks. Make the most of your trip by visiting at least a few of them. If you don’t know where to begin, start by going to crowd favorite Manuel Antonio.

#3: Seek thrills.

Want to have a more thrilling vacation? Spice it up with a bit of adventure! If you’re up for the challenge, don’t leave Costa Rica without giving ziplining a try.

Did you know that recreational ziplining originated in Costa Rica? You read that right! The canopy zipline was invented by American biologist Donald Perry in Sarapiqui back in 1979 because of his investigations on rainforest canopy. Canadian businessman Darren Hreniuk launched the first public canopy tour in Monteverde 18 years later, patenting the technology afterward.

If you have a fear of heights, that’s okay. There’s always scuba diving, kayaking, and snorkeling if you prefer aquatic activities.

#4: Bask in the people’s optimism.

Everywhere you go in Costa Rica, folks will almost always have a cheery disposition. Visitors will be pleasantly surprised by the radiating optimism of the locals as soon as they start exploring the country.

Costa Ricans are big on pura vida, which means “pure life.” What does that look like, you ask? That mantra means living life without its many bells and whistles and simply enjoying it to the fullest. As you find yourself enjoying your stay, you may find that this positivity is slowly rubbing off on you.

What are you waiting for? Take a well-deserved vacation leave and book a flight to Costa Rica now! The Country of Eternal Spring awaits.