Slow Living & Cultural Fusions In Puerto Viejo and Cocles, Costa Rica
Costa Rica, a country celebrated for its abundant biodiversity, heartwarming locals, and tranquil ambiance, holds within its borders the charming towns of Puerto Viejo and Cocles. Nestled in the Limon province, these coastal paradises offer a unique blend of cultures and a chance to truly embrace the Pura Vida lifestyle - as well as discover One Love, Jah Bless and Evry Ting Irie.
Entrance to Manzanillo National Park.
Puerto Viejo and Cocles stand as serene sanctuaries, far-removed from the incessant bustle of city life. Here, life slows down, moving in sync with the rhythm of the vibrant, surrounding jungle. The palpable 'PRANA life force' of this lush wilderness pervades every leaf, creature, breath of wind, and raindrop, whispering profound truths to those willing to listen.
The locals, like the jungle, operate on their own time. This relaxed approach is encapsulated by the painted signs around town reading "slow food", a gentle reminder to visitors that they've left the city's haste behind.
In this Caribbean haven, the mantra is simple: breathe in the air, appreciate the scenery, and don't sweat the small stuff. In other words, Pura Vida! — or Evry Ting Irie (Everything’s Alright).
Puerto Viejo Art Shop
One of Puerto Viejo and Cocles' unique attributes is the harmonious blend of various cultures and nationalities. These towns have become a home for people worldwide, fostering a multicultural community that is both diverse and inclusive. From the indigenous Bri Bri people to the Afro-Caribbean community, the Latin Costa Ricans and expats from various countries, the cultural exchange is a standout feature of the local vibe. This diversity is reflected in the local cuisine, art, music, and traditions that showcase these towns as a cultural paradise.
Fishermen in Puerto Viejo Town.
The rhythm of reggae music, vibrant shops, Jamaican flavors, and local festivals celebrating Afro-Caribbean heritage set this coast apart from the rest of Costa Rica. The Jamaican settlers, who initially arrived in an untouched wilderness, built a modest yet joyful life primarily through cacao farming and fishing. Over time, they lived and worked alongside the Keköldi Indigenous people of the Talamanca Mountains and a few Chinese families. The Jamaican settlers were the founders of these towns, it was only later that the national Government would change the names to Spanish. Wol’Abah is the Jamaican pronunciation for Old Harbour, the original name of Puerto Viejo. Cocles is still an english name, Punta Uva was Grape Point and Manzanillo was Manzanille.
Punta Uva Beach.
The local philosophy can be summed up in two important phrases: "Pura Vida" and "One Love". Pura Vida, translating to "Pure Life", is about living life to the fullest, appreciating the simple things, and maintaining positivity. The One Love phrase (popularized internationally by Bob Marley) ties back to the Rastafarian culture and is a hope for unity, respect, and love for all beings.
Today, the vibrant One Love Rastafarian culture is still going strong. At Beach Break, a popular surfing destination, you're warmly invited into this rich culture. You can drop by Iriria's beachside spot for some fabulous gourmet coffee, or treat yourself to the finest Jerk Chicken at Take It Easy’s cart. It’s always a great time here with activities ranging from surfing, tightrope walking, and volleyball, to indulging in an array of delicious foods, tasty Caribbean chocolates, and don't forget the fire show every Saturday at organized by Fire Space.
Every year there is now the WOLABA PARADE to celebrate the founding culture, with Calypso, Soca, Reggae, Dancehall, Band marching, dance, laughter and rejoicing together as a community and host to visitors from the country and abroad.
Music video filmed at Puerto Viejo, in front of Grow Restaurant.