Heard literally everywhere throughout the country, “Pura Vida” goes way beyond the simple English translation of “Pure Life”. It’s been in the local dialect for over 50 years and is sure to be heard by anyone coming down for a visit to this beautiful country.
Pronunciation
Literally pronounced POO-rah VEE-dah, it represents a sort of Costa Rican philosophy. I’ve heard many refer to it as a sort of synonym for “hakuna matata” and means life is wonderful; go enjoy it. It’s a phrase and symbol representing the relaxed culture and slower pace of Costa Rica.
I’ve had many a conversation with locals about what this phrase means to them. Many believe that the more foreigners grasping this concept, the better the world will be. The more people taking a step back, looking at their lives in the perspective of others, and really learning to relax, the better for all.
It’s a hard right turn from the American Dream I was raised on and, after being here for a few months, I think I’ve forgotten the rat-race and really soaked up the Pura Vida lifestyle.
Examples of How It’s Used
Below are some examples of how I hear the team used throughout my day-to-day:
English
Hey Tamara! Pura Vida?
Everything’s great! Thank God!
Español
¡Hola Tamara!, ¿Pura vida?
¡Todo bien! Gracias a dios.
–
English
Hey there! How is everything?
Pura Vida! And you?
Español
¡Buenas! ¿Como está todo?
¡Pura vida! ¿y Usted?
–
English
See you tomorrow!
Pura Vida! Bye!
Español
¡Nos vemos, mañana!
¡Pura vida, chao!
–
English
Thank you very much!
Not a problem! Pura Vida!
Español
¡Muchas Gracias!
¡No hay problema! ¡Pura Vida!
