PURA VIDA
a philosophy of connection and simplicity
PURA VIDA
a philosophy of connection and simplicity
NOT JUST A PHRASE. A WAY OF LIVING.
Pura Vida is defined by rhythm, by nature, and by peace.
In Costa Rica, “Pura Vida” is more than a greeting. It’s how we live, how we see the world, and how we interact to one another. It means life is good, even when it’s simple. It’s a reminder to breathe, to be present, to treat people with kindness, and to celebrate the small things. Pura vida is a celebration of the rare privilege of meaningful connection.
WHAT PURA VIDA MEANS TO US
TO THE WORLD, we say welcome, responsibly. TO COSTA RICA, we say Thank You.
To live in Costa Rica is to find beauty in what many overlook: the taste of a mango just picked from a tree, the smile from a neighbor, the sound of the rain. It’s not about slowing down.
It’s about aligning with what matters. It’s about living the Pura Vida responsibly, incorporating this into your everyday.
This is not a lifestyle you’ll find in a brochure.
It’s not designed, or packaged, or forced.
It’s felt.
Welcome to the Pura Vida lifestyle. Welcome to Costa Rica.
EXTRAORDINARY FACTS ABOUT COSTA RICA
We may be a small country, but we have big reasons to brag.
In Costa Rica, every fact tells a story, and every story comes back to Pura Vida: our way of cherishing life, nature, and each other. Costa Rica is proof that small can be extraordinary, and that is the essence of Pura Vida.
LEARING TO USE PURA VIDA IN CONVERSATION
Common uses of “Pura Vida” in Costa Rica
| Usage | Meaning / Context |
|---|---|
| Pura vida = Hello | A friendly greeting. “¡Pura vida, mae!” (“Hey, man!”) |
| Pura vida = How are you? | A casual “How’s it going?” “¿Todo bien?” — “Pura vida.” |
| Pura vida = I’m good / Doing great | As a reply, meaning “I’m doing well.” “¿Cómo está?” — “¡Pura vida!” |
| Pura vida = Goodbye | A friendly way to say “see you” or “take care.” “Nos vemos mañana.” — “Pura vida.” |
| Pura vida = Thank you | Shows gratitude. “Gracias por la ayuda.” — “Pura vida.” |
| Pura vida = You’re welcome | As a response to thanks. “Gracias, mae.” — “Pura vida.” |
| Pura vida = OK / Sure / All good | Agreement or approval. “¿Vamos a la playa?” — “Pura vida.” |
| Pura vida = No problem | Equivalent to “no worries.” “Disculpe por llegar tarde.” — “Pura vida, no pasa nada.” |
| Pura vida = Cool / Awesome | Expresses something positive or impressive. “Esa casa está increíble.” — “¡Pura vida!” |
| Pura vida = Agreed / Exactly | Used in agreement. “Costa Rica es lo mejor.” — “Pura vida.” |
Less common and emotional uses of the phrase “Pura Vida” in Costa Rica
| Usage | Meaning / Emotion |
|---|---|
| Pura vida = Positive attitude / outlook on life | Expresses gratitude, simplicity, and optimism — a mindset. “Aunque haya tráfico, todo bien… pura vida.” |
| Pura vida = Cheers / Toast | Used in informal toasts or celebrations. *Raises glass* — “¡Pura vida!” |
| Pura vida = Expression of national pride | Often shouted or worn as a slogan meaning “Costa Rica forever!” “¡Viva Costa Rica! ¡Pura vida!” |
| Pura vida = End of conversation filler | Used like “alright then” or “take care.” “Bueno, hablamos luego.” — “Pura vida.” |
| Pura vida = Response to bad news (with optimism) | To soften disappointment, showing resilience. “Se canceló el viaje.” — “Ah bueno… pura vida.” |









