MesoMag Volume 8
Volume 8 | February 20, 2025
This month, we spotlight Costa Rica—a country we admire for its effortless way of life, breathtaking biodiversity, and deep commitment to sustainability.
Here are a few reasons why Costa Rica is a masterclass in living well.
From Cloud Forests to Coastlines
Endless Landscapes
Costa Rica may be small, but it holds 12 distinct climate zones, packing cloud forests, volcanoes, jungles, and two stunning coastlines into one country.
A cloud forest is exactly what it sounds like—a high-altitude rainforest shrouded in mist. In Monteverde, you can cross hanging bridges through the canopy, spotting sloths, howler monkeys, and the elusive resplendent quetzal.
From there, the landscape shifts fast. Costa Rica has two coastlines—one on the Pacific and one on the Caribbean. The Pacific side offers golden beaches and world-class surf in Nosara and Santa Teresa. The Caribbean coast, in places like Puerto Viejo, moves to a laid-back reggae rhythm, with crystal waters and bright red poison dart frogs hiding in the jungle.
And then, there are the volcanoes. At Poás Volcano, you can stand on the edge of a turquoise crater lake at nearly 9,000 feet—then drive just four hours to the Caribbean, swapping cool mountain air for warm ocean waves on the same day.
A Pura Vida Mindset
The Art of Living Well
Pura vida means “pure life” and symbolizes a way of living that values simplicity, joy, and being present.
This outlook is woven into daily life. Mornings start with café chorreado, a traditional pour-over coffee, slowly brewed and savored. Meals are unhurried, often shared with family and friends. Even in cities, nature is never far—parks, rivers, and jungle trails keep life feeling connected and balanced.
Costa Rica consistently ranks as one of the happiest places in the world, and part of that comes from prioritizing well-being over stress. For visitors, pura vida is easy to embrace, reminding us that life is not to be rushed. Surf in the morning, take a hammock nap in the afternoon, and watch the sunset with fresh ceviche in hand.
Costa Rica Runs on Nature
Built for the Future of Sustainability
Sustainability is a massive priority for Costa Rica. Over 25% of the country is protected land, making it one of the most conservation-focused places on Earth.
Costa Rica runs on nature, generating nearly 99% of its electricity from renewable sources like hydropower, wind, and geothermal energy from its volcanoes. It’s also on track to become carbon neutral, setting a global standard for sustainability.
Since abolishing its military in 1949, Costa Rica has invested in education, healthcare, and conservation, proving that progress and preservation go hand in hand.
For travelers, this means eco-lodges in the jungle, carbon-neutral coffee farms, and national parks that will stay wild forever. In Costa Rica, sustainability isn’t just a policy—it’s the future.
MesoBites
🦥 Costa Rica is home to both two- and three-toed sloths, the ultimate ambassadors of pura vida. These slow-moving creatures spend 90% of their lives hanging in trees and can hold their breath for up to 40 minutes.
☕ Agua dulce is made by dissolving unrefined cane sugar (tapa de dulce) into hot water or milk. This comforting drink is a Costa Rican staple and perfect for sipping on misty mountain mornings.
🎸 Costa Rica has a thriving underground punk and ska scene, with bands like Los Govinda paving the way in the ‘90s. Today, dive bars and small venues keep the counterculture spirit alive.
🎨 Painter Francisco Amighetti captured eerie, dreamlike scenes of Costa Rica’s rural life and folklore. His work blends mysticism with a sharp critique of society.
🌿 Costa Rican curanderos use plants like guayusa for energy, uva de monte for immunity, and cecropia for respiratory health—keeping jungle medicine alive for generations. For a higher level of healing, many seek out ayahuasca ceremonies found throughout Costa Rica.
Step Into the Mesosphere
Ready for more? Discover a realm where ancient medicine meets modern consumption and visit the Mesosphere.
