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Highlights of My Solo Holiday in Costa Rica
Join me on an enchanting journey to one of the most exciting destinations on Earth. Just moments ago, I stepped off a boat in the heart of Costa Rica, where the majestic sight of a mother pufferfish and her calf, accompanied by a pod of playful dolphins, captivated my heart. Their graceful movements in the wild, pristine ocean were like a glimpse into a world of pure and serene beauty.
Now, I’m standing barefoot on a beach so picturesque, it looks lifted from a postcard. Fine sand caresses my toes while the hot sun caresses my skin and overhead, a symphony of exotic birds weaves through the air. At this moment, my soul soars, overwhelmed by a deep sense of gratitude and awe.
The experience is made even more important by the fact that I am traveling alone. With no distractions and no schedule to follow, time seems to stand still, allowing me to fully immerse myself in this slice of paradise. I’m lost in the moment, completely absorbed in the amazing beauty that surrounds me, and it’s a feeling I want to enjoy as much as possible.
A spiritual awakening among the wonders of nature
Even though I’m not religious, I feel a connection to something bigger on this trip. The series of coincidental moments I’ve experienced are too aligned to be mere coincidence. Although the sun and sangria may seem to have influenced my thoughts, I embrace this journey with an open heart.
The past six months have been a rollercoaster of emotions and challenges. I found myself descending a trail, ignoring the warning signs that eventually landed me in the hospital with exhaustion. But at this low point, I found an awakening, a much-needed pause to reevaluate my life’s direction.
Fast forward four weeks, and here I am, refreshed and rejuvenated, basking in the joy of my first solo international vacation. Costa Rica was not only an idyllic travel destination, but a journey of self-discovery.
Here are the key factors that lead to that incredible feeling of positivity.
- My first solo group vacation with G Adventures
- Embracing the Lessons of the Manifesto
- Learning the raw beauty of solo travel
- Encounters with kindred spirits. Healing, Chakras and Spiritual Vortices
My first solo vacation with G Adventures
My first solo vacation with G Adventures was a remarkable trip. In the stunning landscapes of Costa Rica, I have forged lifelong friendships. Each day unfolded with seamless planning, freeing me from the usual burdens of organization and care. This adventure pushed me beyond my comfort zone, raising my adrenaline to new heights. Surrounded by more natural beauty than I ever dreamed of, I have experienced a world of wonder.
Embracing the Lessons of the Manifesto
In “Manifest,” a recommended read for this journey, by my therapist Rosie writes about the courage to let go of what no longer serves us and pursue what truly fills our hearts.
If you had asked me just a few months ago, I would have wanted to manifest my own Mr. Darcy. To fall hopelessly in love, move into a house together in a village with cobbled streets, enjoy skiing holidays and snowball fights…
This trip, however, threw off my priorities and this question now haunts me. Should I first manifest a calmer approach to life?
Sure, I’ve always dreamed of owning a Porsche – I mean who wouldn’t, but I don’t crave a big fancy house, diamonds or fine dining. This trip showed me that life’s richest experiences come from exploring and embracing new adventures, even if they are done alone.
The Raw Beauty of Solo Travel
After my tour, I extended my stay, unwilling to miss the opportunity to witness more of Costa Rica’s magnificent wildlife. The rustic charm of my accommodation in Uvita, with outdoor cold showers and inevitable encounters with creepy crawlies was a test of endurance. However, the days rewarded me with heavenly beaches and waterfalls, wilderness hikes that have carved eternal memories. This solo time turned into an unexpected therapy session, an opportunity to reflect on life’s challenges and think about changes I could make upon my return.
Encounters with kindred spirits
On my last night in Uvita, a discussion about the event with two fellow travelers turned into a deep conversation about life, burnout, and the pursuit of wellness beyond traditional medicine.
Both young people, seeking respite from their fast-paced lives, had turned to meditation and alternative healing practices, finding solace and renewal in the serene landscapes of Costa Rica. They discussed the concept of spiritual vortices, places where the earth’s energy is believed to converge, and pondered whether such energies had brought us together to share our stories and learn from each other’s journeys.
Time for reflection as my vacation comes to an end
My trip ended at a modern youth hostel in San Jose, where mornings began with yoga sessions. The atmosphere, enhanced by the scent of incense and the presence of a charismatic, tanned Spanish yoga instructor, set a peaceful tone for the day. His teachings, woven into compelling stories, emphasized the importance of self-care and the need to slow down in our fast-paced lives. It inspired us to embrace moments of gratitude and calm, a rare find in our normal routine.
This experience was further enriched by an unexpected connection. I befriended a fellow traveler, a therapist by profession, who had just started her adventure in Costa Rica. Over dinner, accompanied by refreshing sangria, we delved into conversations about the urgent need to break free from the pressures of modern dating. We shared our disdain for intrusive questions about our free status, finding solidarity in our experiences. The evening culminated with a celebratory toast to the local mantra, ‘Pura Vida’, which embodies the essence of a good life!
An invitation to individual travelers
Whether you are single, divorced or separated, I strongly encourage you to embark on a journey that could redefine your sense of empowerment. A year ago, the thought of traveling alone filled me with dread, leading to feelings of isolation. As an avid traveler, my divorce seemed to have grounded my wanderlust. However, a turning point came through therapy where I was challenged to think about the worst that could happen if I ventured out solo.
I started small – enjoying a coffee by myself, enjoying a solo lunch and then treating myself to the perfect date for dance lessons in the city. These steps gradually built up my confidence, culminating in the decision to embark on this unforgettable adventure. You can read more about my journey through loneliness on my blog.
Remember, the journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step. What’s holding you back? Embrace the ‘Pura Vida’ lifestyle and discover the solo vacation that could change your life.
This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you.
