Pura Vida


A Costa Rica Retreat

 
 

March 1-8, 2025
Pura Vida
A Costa Rica Blue Zone Retreat

Pura Vida is Costa Rica’s unofficial national slogan, and you hear it everywhere.
The meaning is “pure life” and it has come to symbolize the simple, cheerful outlook and lifestyle of what is often called the happiest country in the world.

This beautiful country is also known for its stunning beaches, lush rainforests, incredible wildlife and happens to be one of the 5 Blue Zones in the world.
Blue Zones are rare geographical areas where people live significantly longer and healthier lives.
The Nicoya Peninsula in Costa Rica is one of these prized locations, known for its high concentration of centenarians-people who live to or beyond 100 years.
Unlike other Blue Zones, Nicoya’s charm lies in its tranquil environment and the unique lifestyle of its residents, which plays a pivotal role in their longevity.
One of the cornerstones of longevity here is a rich tapestry of locally sourced, natural foods.
Staples include corn, beans, rice, squash and tropical fruits.
These are complimented by lean proteins like fish and chicken, consumed in moderation. The diet is low in processed foods and high in fresh produce, which is key to maintining good health well into old age.
Physical activity in Nicoya is not about structured exercise routines, but rather a natural part of everyday life. The clean air, lush greenery and the overall serene environment also play a significant role in fostering good health.

Montezuma

Nestled on the coast of the Nicoya Peninsula, in the Puntarenas Province, is a small town that once began as a remote fishing village.
Montezuma has gained popularity since the 1980’s, and for good reason. It’s the best of both worlds. This small town is full of both locals and ex-pats, and is also home to several Wellness Resorts, one being the beautiful and well located, Ylang Ylang Beach Resort.
Here we will stay for 7 luxurious nights as we integrate ourselves into the lush and exotic environment of Costa Rica, as well as the local community that is chacterized by strong family bonds, a high level of social engagement and a deep connection to their lands and traditions.

Whether you are looking for adventure or relaxation,
this retreat provides something for everyone.

Explore stunning landscapes while also gaining insight into why locals here live longer than almost anywhere else on Earth. Stay with us in your private or shared Cabina, giving you a stunning jungle view only steps away from the beach.
Enjoy fresh, healthy and locally sourced meals prepared especially for you with options ranging from seafood, vegan, gluten free and Costa Rican classics.
Take in daily yoga classes offered with a stunning ocean view, refreshing sea breeze and the soothing sound of the Pacific Ocean.
Join us on a guided hike to the local Montezuma Waterfall and take a dip in its delicious swimming hole followed by a lounge on the rocks with your picnic lunch.

A Day in the Life

Arrive and settle in, acquaint yourself with the resort, the town and your fellow retreat goers. Enjoy dinner together (alcoholic beverages can be purchased) followed by a short walk into town for a tour of Montezuma, a stop at the store for snacks and drinks to bring back to your cabina, even stick around for some local music if you so wish.

On our first full day in Costa Rica, awaken to the sound of the pacific ocean only steps away.
Enjoy your coffee or tea on the beach or find a spot anywhere on the sprawling property.
After a yoga class and breakfast together, join our Author in Residence, Jocelyn Winn, for a workshop around journaling prompts for our week together, as well as how to connect with synchronicity, manifestation and the magic of Montezuma, Costa Rica.
From here, the afternoon is yours to explore, relax, or spend in any way that serves you best.
Pull up a hammock, swim in the ocean, take a stroll down the beach or to one of the local waterfalls.
Walk a few minutes into town, meet some locals and take in the shops, restaurants and many activities that are offered in Montezuma.
Book a spa service or excursions for later in the week.
The possibilities are endless.
We will meet back up for dinner at the resort and dine together under the setting sun.
After dinner, relax here or join some of the locals in town for music and dancing in the streets.
(This is an option most nights in Montezuma.)

Get some rest though, as we prepare to spend the next day on Tortuga Island, where we will sight see, snorkel, swim and spend the day relaxing Pura Vida style.

Visit Tortuga Island

Jump on a boat with us as our group heads out on the perfect day excursion to Tortuga Island.
Begin with a 45 minute boat ride along the coast with breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and the Nicoya Peninsula. Watch the dolphins, jumping manta rays, primitive turtles and maybe even a humpback or pilot whale. Once at Tortuga Island spend time snorkeling at the volcanic reef surrounded by the crystalline waters and its numerous tropical fish.
Next our captain will take us to the white sand beach of Tortuga Island where drinks and fruits will be waiting while lunch is prepared. After a local luncheon, the afternoon will be yours to swim, hike, take a siesta or chill on the beach. As your day comes to an end, get back on the boat for another beautiful ride back to Montezuma.

Spend time your way

Montezuma is made for hammocks. There are hammocks at the Resort for your use, but you can also bring your own and tie it to a couple of shade trees on the beach for a very relaxing afternoon.

Explore the power of synchronicity and manifestation, receive journal prompts, or simply chat with our writer-in-residence Jocelyn Winn as you turn your lived experience into the written word.

Pamper yourself at the onsite spa where you can receive relaxing, restorative treatments that nurture your mind, body and soul.

Additional excursions are easily available in Montezuma.
Rent an ATV and explore for the day.
Take a surf lesson in Santa Teresa.
Spend an evening on a Bioluminescence tour.
Ride horseback on Montezuma beach.
Rent a scooter and explore the Natural Reserve of Cabo Blanco.
AND MORE!

The opportunities really are endless as to how you want to embrace your week in this Blue Zone Paradise.


Join us in March and experience this Costa Rica Blue Zone for yourself!

Trip Details


Meet your hosts


Candy Jackson has travelled to Costa Rica twice in 2024 to find the best retreat spot for you, and this is it! Read more about Candy and her Yoga journey by clicking on her name above.
She is joined by Special Guest, Jocelyn Winn, who will offer the exploration of synchronicity and manifestation through optional journal prompts, creative expression, writing consultations & more.

Package Includes

  • 8 Days/7 nights in a private or shared Cabina

  • 7 Breakfasts

  • 7 Dinners

  • Snorkeling excursion to Tortuga Island, includes lunch

  • Guided hike to The Montezuma Waterfalls

  • Daily Yoga classes

  • Qigong class with a local instructor

  • Ecstatic dance class with a local instructor

  • Optional 30 minute Reiki Treatment

  • Daily options to enhance your experience through writing consultations, journal prompts, synchronicity and manifestation workshops & more

  • So much time for you to choose how else to spend your week in this Blue Zone Paradise

Not Included

  • Airfare

  • Transport to and from aiport

  • Meals, snacks and drinks not mentioned above

  • Additional tours, excursions, spa services or other not included in the above itinerary

Pricing & Accomodations

$2,695 per person Shared Cabina
$3,695 per person Private Cabina SOLD OUT

Pay deposit of $1,000 per person or pay in full

  • ACH: Pay online using your bank account at check out.

  • Check: Use discount code paybycheck at check out.
    Drop off or mail to: Blossom Yoga & Wellness, 120 N. Main St., Concord, NH 03301.

  • Cash: Use discount code paycash at check out.
    Save 5% with all cash payments. Email us to arrange in person exchange.

  • CC: Pay online at check out.

Arrival & Departure

  • Fly in and out of San Jose (SJO) or Liberia (LIR)
    Arrive anytime of the day on Saturday March 1. (the earlier the better, though!)
    Depart anytime of the day on Saturday March 8. (the later the better, though!)

  • Choose SANSA Airlines for a domestic flight to Cobano, or take the bus or shuttle.
    (We highly recommend flying with SANSA, it’s a quick and very scenic flight.)

  • If flying SANSA, from The Cobano Airport take a taxi to Ylang Ylang Beach Resort in Montezuma.

  • If choosing the bus, there is a bus stop in the center of Montezuma.
    From there it is a short walk to Ylang Ylang Beach Resort.

  • Be sure to arrange roundtrip accomodations for your airport transfer in advance.

  • If you would like assistance with any of the above, reach out to Candy.

Cancellation Policy


Full and final payment is due 3 months before retreat, December 1, 2024
Any and all deposits and payments are non refundable unless we can fill your spot.
If a refund is issued, a $250 admin fee will be deducted.

Travel Insurance

Cancel for any reason trip insurance is available.
We recommend Allianz Travel Insurance @ www.allianztravelinsurance.com

As always, reach out to us with any questions.