Pura Vida

Simply translated, it means “simple life” or “pure life”, but here in Costa Rica, it is more than just a saying—it is a way of life.

One of the first terms you’ll notice when getting to Costa Rica is “pura vida.” These two words pretty much sum up everything that makes this Central American paradise so amazing. They literally mean “pure life,” but they have to do more with a type of living than a simple saying.

Chances are that you’ll hear “pura vida” from friends and friendly people all over Costa Rica. It’s our way of saying hello, making you feel welcome or saying goodbye in a happy way.