The key to making it through a transition (work, love, whatever) is often a quick change of scenery. Which is why my Costa Rica trip couldn’t have come at a better time.  Digging out my Eagle Creek backpack, in storage since a post-college graduation tour of Europe, felt empowering, energizing and a little terrifying.  Hidden behind the heels and the handbags, there it was, just waiting for the right time and my right state of mind.

Here, 5 favorite things on the journey: some carried from home and others brand new, discovered along the way.

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Celestial, symbolic hoops by Satya (c/o). Sun: vitality, leadership and life. Moon: nourishment and protection. With sundresses and mini skirts, a pretty and hopeful pairing.

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Hammocks: the best place to take a nap…ever. These were waiting for us at our hotel, La Cascada, in the hippie beach town of Montezuma. Take me back now.

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Bumble and bumble hair products: travel-sized versions of my frizz-free essentials, straight blowdry balm (apply a quarter-sized dollop pre-blowout) and Bb. texture hair (un)dressing creme (for just air drying).  Without these, all I have to do is step off the plane and my hair goes wild!

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Morning smoothies from The Greenhouse (aka: my “Shake Shack”).  The embodiment of Costa Rican living: daily concoctions of fresh fruit, veggies and ginger blended beachside by a laid-back, luscious guy who never stops smiling.  Pura vida!

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And, these guys. From Korea to Canada, Finland to the Flatiron. Here’s to international love.

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7 thoughts on “Pura Vida {Part II}

  • January 15, 2014 at 6:57 AM
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    ABSOLUTELY FANTASTIC… MAKES ME WANT TO GO

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    • January 15, 2014 at 8:27 AM
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      Thanks for reading!

      Reply
  • January 15, 2014 at 9:13 AM
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    Looks like a lot of fun. I need the bb texture cream too otherwise it is frizz city. Pls share

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    • January 15, 2014 at 9:34 AM
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      Yes, those are two essential products!

      Reply
  • January 15, 2014 at 9:49 AM
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    Looks amazing, Rachel! Happy New Year…hope to see you soon!

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    • January 15, 2014 at 11:09 AM
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      It was…happy new year to you too! Let’s work out together soon…where to next?!

      Reply
  • January 17, 2014 at 2:06 PM
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    i really loved these pics and the commentary….Makes me want to go too, but no rapelling down *or up* waterfalls for me!!

    Reply

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