Costa Rica is a place of personal significance to me, and a place I hope to call home one day. Twenty-five years ago, I took a leave of absence from my corporate job and headed to Costa Rica. I had the privilege of living with local families which exposed me to a way of life that, despite its simplicity, embodies true fulfillment, locally referred to as Pura Vida. "Pura Vida" is more than just a phrase in Costa Rica; it's a way of life. It embodies an appreciation for the simple pleasures and gratitude for the present moment. The people I met radiated an undeniable joy for life, modeling that happiness transcends material possessions. It was a far cry from NYC where I was living at the time, but everything about it felt so right. I also remember thinking that the government was getting so much right - no military spending, fully funded college education and most importantly environmental stewardship before it was a global mandate. The culture permeated health and I felt so alive and healthy there, surfing daily, living slowly and unknowingly living in a Blue Zone. Since having kids I have gone almost every year, often spending a month of summer there. Costa Rica is a place I love very dearly and I strive to have my photos capture the ecological beauty, the lush rainforests, pristine beaches, and breathtaking landscapes that define Costa Rica's natural beauty.
