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pura vida

A philosophy of life

Pura Vida, literally translated means "Pure Life." Contextually, it means "Full of Life" "Purified life", "This is living!", "Going great!" It is used as a greeting, a farewell, and to express satisfaction.

Pura Vida also means "I am doing alright", "I'm doing perfect" and "Thank you".

Pura Vida is an attitude, a feeling. It’s all good. It’s relaxing, taking it easy.

The phrase has become widely known in the USA and Europe. Some foreigners view the phrase as an expression of a leisurely lifestyle, of disregard for time and wanton friendliness. However, Costa Ricans use the phrase to express a philosophy of strong community, perseverance, good spirits, enjoying life slowly, celebrating good fortune, whether small or large.

Expats who adopt the expression properly get a big smile in return. It is an acknowledgment of the Costa Rican attitude towards life.

A few examples

• “How are you?”
  “Pura Vida.”

• “How’s the weather?”
  “Pura Vida.”

A pretty girl or cute muchacho ... that  is also “pura vida"!