What do you get when you mix together Jamaican immigrants, French Artisans, twenty-something free spirited Americans, a heaping dose of reggae along with breathtaking beaches and the spirit of the ganja? The hospitality of a small town with a big heart called Puerto Viejo. Expats from almost every country imaginable call Puerto Viejo home, which is located on the Southern Caribbean Coast of Costa Rica and four and a half hour drive from the capital, San Jose. Unlike other beach destinations, you won’t find overcrowded beaches lined with commercial buildings.
In order to preserve “The Rich Coast” the country has laws against building 50 meters along the beach. For this reason, lush natural green mountains line nearby pristine beaches.
Looking for a place to satisfy your sweet tooth? Handmade chocolates and desserts are baked daily at Bread and Chocolate, owned by a young cat from Baltimore who fell in love with Costa Rica after a Spanish immersion class during his college days. Any place that has truffles named “Hot Damn” and “Straight Up” is a place worth trying.
Need a place to unwind? Pure Jungle Spa says it all. Where else can you get a caribbean cooler body treatment along with tropical bliss facial and exotic foot ritual? For all my chocoholics, I’d try the ultimate total body chocolate decadence body treatment with the jungle chocolate facial.
Hungry from lounging on the beach all day? Try a little Jungle Love, owned by a San Francisco couple, Yamu and Poppy. Set in a small intimate garden atmosphere, their world fusion/tropical cuisine will definitely have you regretting you didn’t order an extra plate to go. The shrimp salad topped with mango salsa was a personal favorite.
For all you art hounds, Lulu Berlu houses creations from local and international artists. From African inspired furniture to purses made from recycled goods, to hand painted ceramics to eye-catching beachwear, Lulu Berlu will surely have something for everyone.
Lookin for an authentic Costa Rica meal? Don’t leave Puerto Viejo without stopping by Tex Mex. Don’t let the name fool you, you won’t find any mariachis here. This bar has it all in one spot with one of the city’s best breakfasts during the day and savory drinks by night.
Ladies, you can leave the Louboutin’s at home, with flip flops on your feet and rhythm to catch the beat, you’re set just leave a free hand for the mojito the bartender is ready to give you and be ready to live the Pura Vida
Check out: www.luluberluart.com www.purejunglespa.com
© 2009 – 2010, Lindsey Ferguson. All rights reserved by Sub Urban Media Group.
About Lindsey Ferguson
Great article! But its making me hate this cold, German weather even more ;(
“Any place that has truffles named “Hot Damn” and “Straight Up” is a place worth trying.”- AMEN!
We want to visit you in Germany Miss Santana….we gone need a place to crash and I’m sure you will be a great guide!
I just added you to my Google News Reader. Keep up the good work. Look forward to reading more from you in the future.