Pura Vida..

I have yet to sit down and write about my love for Costa Rica which to me is one of the most beautiful, relaxing places in the world. I don't know if it was my first trip to Quepos, Costa Rica 6 years ago that made me fall in love or my continued yearly trips (sometimes bi-annual trips) that increased my fondness.

Growing up I always wondered why people vacationed to the same tropical place year after year rather than venturing off to new destinations, which is what my family always did. It finally hit me though...you fall in love with a place, a culture, a cuisine, a life style and it makes any other place seem like an extremely tough sell.

My recommendation for the western pacific coast: Tamarindo. Though touristy and more developed by thy day, for a younger traveler you can experience it all here; bars, music, dollar imperials, fresh fish caught that morning, tours into the rainforest,

world-class surf spots a short boat ride away and the most amazing people you will ever meet. Because don't forget, Costa Rica was recently named the "happiest place on earth" stating that "Costa Ricans report the highest life satisfaction in the world and have the second-highest average life expectancy of the new world."

5 Favorite places in the Tamarindo area:

1. Mar y Sol (Playa Flamingo): While pricy for dinner, you have to go to their upstairs bar for happy hour at least. Watching the sunset here is an absolutely mesmerizing experience.

2. Monkey Bar (Playa Tamarindo): Friday nights this is my favorite bar in the world. Dollar imperials, guaro sours, 3 bars, a live salsa band to start the night and an amazing D.J to end it. You have to experience it to believe how truly wonderful this bar is. And it goes all night long.

3. Playa Conchal: The most beautiful white sand beach in Costa Rica. Pack an iced chest of cold beers and lounge around on the most gorgeaus sand you will ever see.

4. Playa Avenallas: Known for it's amazing surfing, this beach is like no other. A rambling stretch of white sand, an amazing restaurant with delicious tuna and surfers galore.

5. Any bar/restaurant that has imperials, guaro sours and fresh fish.

I may be partial to this place, but I recommend it to anyone who wants a truly unforgettable tropical vacation. Visit either in Oct-Dec or May-Sep. Fly into Liberia, pre-order a shuttle from Tamarindo Shuttles to wherever you are staying and enjoy :)