Episodes
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In this episode, we sit down with Darren Enns, the visionary behind Eco Builders of Costa Rica. Originally from the Vancouver/Seattle area, Darren’s extensive background in industrial and commercial building took a new direction when he fell in love with Costa Rica’s Southern Zone. Drawn to the Uvita area, Darren’s passion for sustainability and responsible building inspired him to launch Eco Builders, a company dedicated to providing high-quality, eco-friendly homes in Costa Rica.
From sourcing sustainable materials to delivering a stress-free home-building experience, Darren is on a mission to redefine construction standards in Costa Rica. With his deep understanding of the local landscape and commitment to reducing environmental impact, he shares his vision for building responsibly in paradise and gives invaluable insights for anyone considering building or relocating to Costa Rica.
Join us to hear Darren’s inspiring story and gain a fresh perspective on sustainable living in Costa Rica. Whether you’re an aspiring expat, interested in eco-friendly construction, or just curious about life in Costa Rica, this episode is packed with tips and stories you won’t want to miss.
Key Highlights:
Darren’s journey from industrial-commercial building in Vancouver/Seattle to starting Eco Builders in Costa Rica 🌎
Exploring the Southern Zone, Limon, and ultimately settling in Uvita 🌴
Darren’s vision for sustainable and responsible building in Costa Rica 🏡
How Eco Builders ensures a smooth and stress-free home-building experience for clients 🔨
Tips for those considering building or relocating to Costa Rica
Tune in for a fascinating conversation about innovation, sustainability, and the Costa Rican dream. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share to stay updated on all our latest episodes!https://ecobuilderscostarica.com/
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In this episode, we meet Robin Jackson, a dedicated animal lover and doggy daycare owner from South Carolina, who’s currently on a 6-month journey to discover if Costa Rica could be her forever home. Bringing along her three beloved dogs, Robin chose the charming town of Santa Lucia as her base after several visits to explore Costa Rica’s beautiful landscapes and warm communities.
As Robin settles into the rhythm of Costa Rican life, she shares her adventures, including her volunteer work at a local dog shelter and insights into what it takes to make an international move with pets. From finding pet-friendly spots to connecting with the local culture, Robin gives us a firsthand look at the ups and downs of her journey to discover if Costa Rica could be the ultimate home for her and her furry companions.
Join us to hear Robin’s inspiring story of courage, adventure, and dedication to her four-legged family. This episode is packed with tips for expats, pet lovers, and anyone dreaming of a life in paradise.
Key Highlights:
Deciding to test Costa Rica as a permanent home for her and her dogs 🐶🌴
Why she chose Santa Lucia after multiple trips to Costa Rica 🇨🇷
Volunteering at a local dog shelter and giving back to the community 🐾❤️
Challenges and joys of traveling and living abroad with pets ✈️
Insights into Costa Rica’s pet-friendly culture and lifestyle 🌿
Don’t miss this episode if you’re an animal lover, an aspiring expat, or curious about life in Costa Rica. Like, subscribe, and share to stay updated with all our latest episodes!Link to Facebook
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Link to IG
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Link to website
https://www.shebasdoggydaycamp.com/Follow Our Podcast:
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Missing episodes?
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In this episode, we meet Robin Jackson, a dedicated animal lover and doggy daycare owner from South Carolina, who’s currently on a 6-month journey to discover if Costa Rica could be her forever home. Bringing along her three beloved dogs, Robin chose the charming town of Santa Lucia as her base after several visits to explore Costa Rica’s beautiful landscapes and warm communities.
As Robin settles into the rhythm of Costa Rican life, she shares her adventures, including her volunteer work at a local dog shelter and insights into what it takes to make an international move with pets. From finding pet-friendly spots to connecting with the local culture, Robin gives us a firsthand look at the ups and downs of her journey to discover if Costa Rica could be the ultimate home for her and her furry companions.
Join us to hear Robin’s inspiring story of courage, adventure, and dedication to her four-legged family. This episode is packed with tips for expats, pet lovers, and anyone dreaming of a life in paradise.
Key Highlights:
Deciding to test Costa Rica as a permanent home for her and her dogs 🐶🌴
Why she chose Santa Lucia after multiple trips to Costa Rica 🇨🇷
Volunteering at a local dog shelter and giving back to the community 🐾❤️
Challenges and joys of traveling and living abroad with pets ✈️
Insights into Costa Rica’s pet-friendly culture and lifestyle 🌿
Don’t miss this episode if you’re an animal lover, an aspiring expat, or curious about life in Costa Rica. Like, subscribe, and share to stay updated with all our latest episodes!Link to Facebook
https://www.facebook.com/ShebasDoggyDayCamp?mibextid=LQQJ4d
Link to IG
https://www.instagram.com/shebasdoggydaycamp?igsh=MTRra3BhbGFtbmZ6cw%3D%3D&utm_source=qr
Link to website
https://www.shebasdoggydaycamp.com/ -
In this episode, we sit down with Mike McGinnis, a true Costa Rican expat pioneer who first arrived in Costa Rica as a young surfer in 1991. Drawn to the waves and the lifestyle, Mike quickly decided to make Costa Rica his permanent home. From the vibrant coastlines of Dominical to the serene hills of Tinamaste, he’s spent over 30 years immersing himself in the Tico way of life.
Mike shares insights on the pros and cons of living beachfront, his experiences with Costa Rica's iconic cleaner ants, and even his spiritual journey with Ayahuasca. Now a seasoned author working on his third book, Mike talks about how his writing captures the essence of Costa Rica and reflects on the experiences that have shaped his life in paradise.
Join us as we explore Mike’s three-decade journey, filled with surfing, writing, and deep cultural connections. If you’ve ever wondered about expat life, spirituality, or the real Costa Rica, this episode is packed with unique stories and practical insights.
Key Highlights:
Moving to Costa Rica as a young surfer and making it home 🏄♂️🌴
Life in Dominical and Tinamaste, and the beauty of embracing Tico culture 🇨🇷
The pros and cons of beachfront living 🏖️
Stories about cleaner ants and lessons from Ayahuasca 🍃🐜
Mike’s journey as an author and his upcoming third book 📖
Don’t miss this fascinating conversation with Mike McGinnis, a true Costa Rica expat with stories that will inspire and entertain. Like, subscribe, and share to stay updated with all our latest episodes! -
Join us as we dive into the incredible journey of Benoit Saumier, a former IT professional for the Canadian Government, who left it all behind for a new life in Costa Rica. During the pandemic, Benoit and his wife took a stand by supporting the Canadian trucker convoys, distributing cannabis to truckers as a form of protest. This act of defiance, coupled with their growing disillusionment with government policies, led them to seek a fresh start in Costa Rica.
After a fact-finding trip to this tropical paradise, Benoit and his wife were met with harsh penalties upon their return to Canada, including a staggering $1 million fine for breaking re-entry protocols. This was the final push they needed to make the move permanent. Now, they have created a beautiful retreat in Costa Rica, where Benoit's wife practices as a health coach, helping others on their wellness journeys.
Tune in to hear the trials and triumphs of their relocation, the challenges they faced with the Canadian government, and how they ultimately found peace and purpose in Costa Rica. This episode is a must-listen for anyone considering a major life change, seeking freedom, or curious about the expat experience in Costa Rica.
Key Highlights:
Supporting the Canadian trucker convoys and their stand against government mandates 🚚🇨🇦
Facing a $1 million fine upon return to Canada 💸
Making the decision to move to Costa Rica permanently 🌴
Establishing a wellness retreat and finding new purpose in paradise 🏡
The journey of transformation and the freedom found in Costa Rica ✨
Don't miss this inspiring story of courage, resilience, and the quest for a life of true freedom. Like, subscribe, and share to stay updated on all our latest episodes! -
In this episode, we chat with an inspiring couple who made the adventurous move from East Africa to Costa Rica, determined to help others navigate the complexities of relocating to a new country. They landed in Costa Rica in February 2021 with a clear mission: to start a relocation company that eases the process for others taking the leap. From handling paperwork to dealing with the minutia like buying a vehicle, they’re here to make it simpler.
The journey didn't stop there. Shortly after arriving, they had an "anchor baby" in Costa Rica and experienced the country’s healthcare system firsthand. Their positive experience solidified their belief in Costa Rica as an ideal destination for expats. Now, through their website startabroad.com, they provide a wealth of information and resources to help others make informed decisions about moving abroad.
Join us as they share their journey, the ups and downs of moving countries, and the invaluable insights they’ve gained along the way. If you're considering a move to Costa Rica or curious about the expat life, this episode is packed with practical tips and firsthand experiences to guide you through.
Key Highlights:
Moving from East Africa to Costa Rica 🌍✈️
Establishing their relocation company to help others make the move 🏡
The experience of having an ""anchor baby"" in Costa Rica and navigating the healthcare system 👶🩺
Insight into the process of buying a vehicle and other relocation details 🚗
Resources and advice for anyone considering a move to Costa Rica 🇨🇷
Don't miss this episode if you're dreaming of a new life abroad! Like, subscribe, and share to stay updated on all our latest episodes.Visit Their Website:
https://www.startabroad.com -
In this riveting episode, we sit down with Teri Nehring, a psycho-therapist who, along with her husband Paul, bought a property in Costa Rica over a Zoom call during the height of the pandemic. What they didn’t expect was to find their new home covered in mold upon arrival. With their belongings already en route in a shipping container, Teri and Paul had no choice but to dig in and make the best of the situation.
But this story takes a surprising turn! As they began to renovate and restore their new home, Teri and Paul discovered that their land was rich in white quartz, emitting an energy that transformed their space into a sanctuary of healing and restoration. Now, their 13 acres of protected rainforest has become a place of high vibrations, offering a serene environment for those seeking peace and renewal.
Join us as Teri shares their journey from unexpected challenges to creating a healing haven in Costa Rica’s lush rainforest. Whether you're interested in real estate adventures, holistic living, or the transformative power of nature, this episode has something for everyone!
Key Highlights:
The unexpected challenges of buying property in Costa Rica during the pandemic 🇨🇷🏠
Overcoming the mold disaster and transforming their home 🌿
The discovery of white quartz and its healing energy ✨
How 13 acres of protected rainforest became a sanctuary for wellness and restoration 🌳
Insights into holistic living and the power of positive vibrations
Tune in for an inspiring story of resilience, healing, and the magic of Costa Rica’s natural beauty. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share to stay updated on all our latest episodes.https://villaintiwasi.com
Follow Our Podcast:
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https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/expat-diaries-costa-rica-edition/id1726684671 -
In this heartwarming episode, we chat with Kat Bustamante, whose roots in Costa Rica led her on an incredible journey of love, resilience, and adventure. During a visit to her extended family in Costa Rica, Kat formed a deep connection with Fermin, who would later become her husband. After a life-changing motorcycle accident, the couple decided not to wait any longer, getting married and moving to New Jersey to start their lives together.
Over the years, they worked tirelessly, saving every penny with the dream of one day returning to Costa Rica. That dream finally came true when they purchased land near their families on the Limon side of the country. Join us as Kat shares the challenges and triumphs of their 10-year journey, from shipping their belongings in a container to clearing the land and building a new life in the heart of Costa Rica.
Key Highlights:
Kat and Fermin’s love story, from Costa Rica to New Jersey and back again ❤️🇨🇷
The impact of a life-changing motorcycle accident on their decision to marry 🏍️💍
The financial and emotional journey of saving to move back to Costa Rica 💰🌴
Purchasing land in Limon and the process of making it home 🏡
The ups and downs of shipping belongings, clearing land, and building from the ground up 🚢🌿
Tune in for an inspiring story of perseverance, love, and the fulfillment of a dream that was 10 years in the making. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share to stay updated on all our latest episodes.Follow Our Podcast:
https://www.linktr.ee/expatdiariespodcast
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https://www.tiktok.com/@expatdiariescostarica
https://www.instagram.com/expatdiariespodcast
https://www.facebook.com/ExpatDiariesPodcast
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/expat-diaries-costa-rica-edition/id1726684671#CostaRica #LoveStory #ExpatLife #LandPurchase #NewJerseyToCostaRica #FamilyJourney #PuraVida #DreamHome #PodcastEpisode"
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In this captivating episode, we sit down with Sally Pederson, a fearless world traveler and Canadian expat whose adventurous spirit led her to buy a home in Costa Rica after just three days in the country! Initially intended as a retirement retreat, life events and global changes expedited her move to the Tamarindo area in 2011, where she began a new chapter with her daughter and dog.
Sally shares her remarkable journey of starting a life in Villa Real, navigating the ups and downs of expat life, and eventually letting her daughter return to Canada to finish high school. But the story doesn't end there—Sally’s wanderlust takes her from Costa Rica to Spain and then to her current home in Montenegro. Along the way, she embraces new cultures, health and wellness practices, and the joy of constant discovery.
Join us as we explore Sally's inspiring story of resilience, adaptability, and the pursuit of new experiences. If you’ve ever dreamed of living abroad or are looking for inspiration to make bold moves in your life, this episode is for you!
Key Highlights:
Buying a home in Costa Rica after just three days 🇨🇷🏡
Life in Tamarindo and Villa Real, Costa Rica 🌴
Navigating global moves with a family, including a return to Canada 🇨🇦
Exploring new horizons in Spain and Montenegro 🇪🇸🇲🇪
Embracing health, wellness, and the thrill of new experiences 🌱✨
Tune in to hear Sally’s incredible journey and get inspired to embark on your own global adventure! Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share to stay updated on all our latest episodes. -
Join us in this episode as we sit down with Forrest of Oregon, a seeker of healing and personal growth who has found his sanctuary in Costa Rica’s Diamonte Valley. Originally from Oregon, Forrest has prioritized his mental and physical health, embarking on a journey of self-discovery that has led him to the lush, serene landscapes of Tinamaste, Costa Rica.
Forrest shares his love for the cool climate, the close-knit psychedelic communities, and the natural beauty that surrounds him—an environment that starkly contrasts the bustling tourist spots like Manuel Antonio. He also reflects on his time in Nicaragua and Corcovado, each place adding unique layers to his quest for healing.
As Forrest looks ahead, his focus is clear: to heal, grow, and explore the depths of his being in the next year and a half. Tune in to hear his inspiring story of transformation, and discover why the Diamonte Valley holds a special place in his heart.
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Tune in to Episode #29 as we chat with Monique Claudio, a personal trainer and wellbeing advocate who arrived in Costa Rica before the 2020 lockdown and decided to stay. Currently based in Ojochal, Monique shares her journey of integrating into the local community, offering online fitness coaching, and volunteering. She also talks about her love for dog sitting and staying active, and how the 'Pura Vida' mindset has helped her navigate the challenges of expat life. Whether you’re considering a move or simply seeking inspiration for a balanced life, Monique’s story offers valuable insights.
Key Highlights:
Monique’s decision to move to Costa Rica before the 2020 lockdown 🌍
How she’s built a fulfilling life in Ojochal, blending fitness, community, and volunteering 💪🏡
The importance of the 'Pura Vida' mindset in overcoming the ups and downs of expat life 🧘♀️🇨🇷
Her passion for dog sitting and staying active in the beautiful surroundings of Costa Rica 🐕🏞️
Tips for anyone considering a move to Costa Rica or looking for a balanced, wellness-focused lifestyle ✨#CostaRica #PuraVida #ExpatLife #WellnessJourney #PersonalTrainer #FitnessCoach #Ojochal #DogSitting #VolunteerWork #BalancedLife #Wanderlust #TravelAndWellness"
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🎙️ Episode #X: Inside EMBODY Costa Rica - Music, Wellness, and Transformation with DTO 🎶🌿. In this captivating episode, we dive into the world of music production and holistic wellness with DTO, an award-winning producer and the visionary behind the professional recording studio at EMBODY Costa Rica. Nestled in the serene town of Atenas, this retreat center offers a unique environment where artists can create and record music in a state-of-the-art studio, surrounded by the tranquil beauty of Costa Rica.
DTO’s innovative approach to music production is matched by his and his wife Hemalayaa’s passion for promoting wellness and personal growth. Together, they own and run EMBODY Costa Rica, a serene wellness and retreat center designed to nurture the mind, body, and spirit.
Key Highlights:
Explore the cutting-edge recording studio at EMBODY Costa Rica
Learn about DTO’s journey as an award-winning music producer
Discover the holistic wellness programs offered at EMBODY Costa Rica
Insights into yoga, meditation, and transformative workshops led by DTO and Hemalayaa
A glimpse into the serene accommodations and supportive community that make EMBODY a top destination for rejuvenation and self-discovery
Whether you’re an artist looking for a creative sanctuary or someone seeking a transformative wellness experience, this episode offers a wealth of inspiration and practical insights.🌐 Learn more about DTO's work at DTOmusic.com and discover the transformational offerings at EmbodyCostaRica.com.
Tune in now and embark on a journey of creativity and holistic living in the heart of Costa Rica! Don't forget to like, share, and subscribe to stay connected with our latest episodes.
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In our newest episode, we chat with Gabriel Guillemette, a trailblazer who revolutionized mortgage brokerage in Costa Rica, making it possible for non-citizens to finance properties and projects. Gabriel, originally from Quebec, moved to Costa Rica with his wife and three young sons after two challenging years in quarantine. Driven by a desire for a better quality of life and education for his children, Gabriel and his family embraced their new home and quickly started multiple successful businesses.
Key Highlights:
Gabriel's journey from Quebec to Costa Rica with his family
The groundbreaking work in mortgage brokerage for expats
Starting and growing successful businesses in Costa Rica
The family's smooth adaptation and the boys becoming multi-lingual
Overcoming the challenges of relocation and thriving in a new environment
Gabriel’s story is one of innovation, resilience, and success. Learn how his pioneering efforts have opened new doors for expats in Costa Rica and how his family has flourished in their new home.🌐 Join us for this inspiring episode and discover the possibilities that await in Costa Rica!
Check out Gabriels Development company: www.gpwdev.com and his finance company: www.ccs.financial
Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe to support our channel and stay updated with our latest episodes! -
🎙️ Episode #26: Terry Carlile - Thriving in Costa Rica: From Graphic Design to Community Impact 🇨🇷🎨
In our latest episode, we sit down with Terry Carlile, who followed his twin brother to Costa Rica five years ago and has since made a significant impact in the Guanacaste area. Terry works as a graphic designer for Howler Magazine and also plays a vital role in his brother's church and ministry. His contributions extend to launching a new company in Costa Rica, which starts with a staff of 10 locals and aims to grow, boosting the local economy.
Key Highlights:
Terry’s journey from following his twin brother to establishing a fulfilling life in Costa Rica
His role at Howler Magazine and the variety of tasks he undertakes
The impactful work with his brother’s church and ministry
Launching a new company and its economic contributions to the community
Overcoming minor challenges, like adapting to the unique traffic flow in Costa Rica
Terry’s story is a testament to the opportunities and rewarding experiences that come with moving to Costa Rica. Despite minor annoyances like the unpredictable traffic, he finds immense satisfaction in his new life.🌐 Tune in for insights, inspiration, and practical advice on making the move to Costa Rica!
Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe to support our channel and never miss an episode!
#CostaRica #ExpatLife #Guanacaste #GraphicDesign #CommunityImpact #HowlerMagazine #ChurchMinistry #LocalEconomy #MoveToCostaRica #LivingAbroad
https://howlermag.com
https://beachcommunitychurchcr.com
www.propertyanalyticspv.com
www.puravidashow.com -
🎙️ Meet Melissa Garita - Your Legal Guide to Moving to Costa Rica
In this episode, we sit down with Melissa Garita, a renowned Tico attorney dedicated to helping expats navigate the legal landscape of Costa Rica. From residency applications to real estate transactions and litigation, Melissa and her firm, Saggia Legge Abogados y Notarios, provide expert legal assistance without breaking the bank.
Key Takeaways:
Simplified residency application process
Affordable legal services in Costa Rica
Insights into real estate transactions
Welcoming environment for expats
Fluent English-speaking services
Melissa's passion for assisting expats and her appreciation for the diverse cultures they bring to Costa Rica shines through in this conversation. With offices in Heredia and Limon, and a new office coming soon to Guanacaste, Saggia Legge Abogados y Notarios is ready to welcome new clients.🌐 Learn more about Melissa and her team at www.saggialegge.com (website under construction)
Tune in to discover how Melissa and her firm can make your move to Costa Rica smooth and stress-free. Don't miss out on these valuable insights and practical advice!
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100089335125588
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🎙️ Episode #X: Deepa’s Organic Oasis - Protecting Costa Rica’s Rainforest and Watershed 🌿🇨🇷
In this inspiring episode, we interview Deepa, an extraordinary soul who moved to Costa Rica over 17 years ago with a mission to protect and nurture the environment. Deepa's story is one of passion and dedication as she cares for over 175 acres of pristine rainforest and watershed.
Key Highlights:
Deepa’s journey from a Registered Nurse to a dedicated environmental protector
The creation of a ""food forest"" and future natural healing developments
The role of foreign volunteers in her conservation efforts.How Deepa’s love for animals and commitment to protecting the water source impacts local villages.
Discover how Deepa is creating and protecting life in Costa Rica, both as a nurse and as an environmental guardian. If you’re looking for an organic adventure in farming or want to learn more about natural healing, Deepa’s initiatives are a beacon of inspiration.
🌐 Explore more about Deepa's projects at www.luzdelcorazón.net and www.earths-embrace.com https://www.facebook.com/share/p/MLyoPYRHJyhLTrR7/?mibextid=WC7FNe
Join us for a deep dive into Deepa’s incredible journey and find out how you can get involved in her efforts to protect Costa Rica’s natural beauty.
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Shelley was looking for a community to be a part of an she found it in Ojochal. Not to mention pigs, geese, a duck and dogs and cats. An avid animal lover and rescue haven, Shelley is now creating her own resuce called "The Haven" and I can only say that the animals that are lucky enough to cross her path love her. You will too!
Find Shelleey here:
https://www.mommashavencostaricananimalrescue.com
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61557474077588 -
Part 2 takes us from quad tours, white water rafting and waterfalls. The Nauyaca Waterfalls https://www.nauyacawaterfall.com/ are the most photographed waterfalls in Costa Rica and that is saying a ton, because there are literally hundreds of waterfalls to find on your trip. When in the Southern Zone ther are quite a few rivers to raft, however, I have done the Naranjo River and the Savegre River rafting, so when deciding which one to take my grands on, I knew the Naranjo was less intense.
I booked the rafting trip through VIATOR here: https://bit.ly/3XC8XE1 The quad/waterfall tour was a ton of fun. We had experienced wuite a bit of rain so ther creeks and river crossings on the quads proved to be dirty and exhilarating. The kids loved it! I booked the quad tour here: https://bit.ly/3VSSoTg I used GetYourGuide app for this. Then the last day we did family pictures on the beach at Dominicalito.
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Part 1 of vacationing in Costa Rica with Collin and Patience, my grandkids who are 12 and 13. If you want to know if there are things that can tear them away from their phones long enough. Tune in! We started by stopping by Tarcoles to see the crocodiles on the way to the AirBNB. The next day was a visit to Las Ventanas and wave jumping at Bahia Ballena https://www.visitcostarica.com/en/costa-rica/where-to-go/protected-areas/ballena-national-marine-park to do some wave jumping. These kids are having a blast. But between these two beaches we were sure to pop in to Pizza Time in Uvita https://www.facebook.com/p/Pizza-Time-Uvita-100063573005638/ fed the crew and moved on to the next location (photo ops)
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Robin is planning vacation to Costa Rica for members of her family that have never been there. Remembering to be a tourist can be hard.
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