Travelers wishing to escape the city light scrambles often find relief in Costa Rica. This seaside country embraces summer, charming guests with its tiny towns and white-washed coasts. It offers experiences that can’t be denied.

They can be defined, however, with the "Pura Vida" phrase.

"Pura Vida" - translated literally as pure life - is a common expression within the Los Suenos, Jaco and Manuel Antonio regions. Locals sing out these words as greetings, farewells, prayers or small-talk replies. They’re meant to capture the spirit of the country, as well as reflect a Spanish heritage that still runs deep.

Travelers should expect to hear this phrase often - and should also expect to adopt it themselves. "Pura Vida" is a colloquialism that proves impossible to ignore. Use it on every deep sea adventure and canopy tour.