Many of us cherish the memories made on our first trip to Costa Rica. Some to Las Catalinas, while others to various corners of this captivating country. The allure that accompanies the discovery of this tranquil, lush landscape is collective. As we embrace the spirit of love this month, we would like to share some of Christian’s story that captures the essence of falling in love with Costa Rica.
Touching down in Costa Rica's Guanacaste Province, Christian was looking for rejuvenation during a month-long retreat over the holidays. The festive season reminds him of the loss of his mother in 2022, so to escape, he decided to head to the shores of the Pacific Ocean—the very ocean where he was born and raised, a source of peace for him.
His time in Costa Rica proved to be transformative, his memories are marked by recording new music in a local studio, reading Hemingway on the beach, laughing with newfound friends, dining and drinking. Christian immersed himself in the vibrant local culture, even trading his shirts for national soccer team jerseys, of which he now has four. “One night, someone brought me a Costa Rican flag and draped it over my shoulders as a gift. That was a great moment. A standout amongst many great moments.” Christian recalls.
Among the cherished memories was his bittersweet farewell at Celeste. “The night before I left, I was at my regular haunt, Celeste, in a little beautiful town on the beach called Las Catalinas, and the staff were coming up to me, some in tears, saying they were sad I was leaving. I was sad, too. I was there for their opening night, and what a party that was.”
Enthralled by the warmth and hospitality of the Costa Rican people, Christian has become an advocate for others to experience the country's allure. He praises its pristine beaches, jungles teeming with diverse wildlife, and the ethos of "Pura Vida" that permeated every aspect of life. Inspired by the nation's commitment to peace and sustainability, he marveled at its lush landscapes and embraced the simplicity of living in harmony with nature.
Throughout his vacation, Christian reveled in the hospitality of luxury retreats like Casa Chameleon and Santarena Hotel, with great amenities, and sunsets painted a canvas of unparalleled beauty. Yet, it was the intimate moments spent in the company of fellow travelers and locals that left an unforgettable mark on his soul.
As he bid farewell to Costa Rica, Christian carried with him a newfound appreciation for life's simple pleasures and a profound sense of gratitude for the experiences during his journey. Christian reflects, “I am in love, and I have a feeling one day I will call this place home.” He left a piece of his heart in Guanacaste, yet he also took a piece of Guanacaste home with him.
Read Christian's Costa Rican Adventure article here.