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Pura vida is a phrase lived by the people of Manuel Antonio. The direct translation is pure life, however it means so much more. Pura vida expresses contentment, happiness, and satisfaction with your life. This can surely be found here! After spending time with the locals, it is easy to adopt this philosophy because of their contagious enthusiasm for the joy they find in the simple things in life. One of the first things you'll notice is how friendly everyone is. The locals take a personal interest in tourists' satisfaction and opinion of their community. They were apologetic for the weather, explaining that a storm of this magnitude is very uncommon. Everyone is quick to say hello and greet you with a warm handshake as they introduce themselves. This is customary as we even saw local children greet one another with a handshake before they began their playtime activities. The food is as diverse as it is flavorful. If, however, you want to immerse yourself in the culture, try eating "typical" as often as possible. The Marlin Restaurant proved to offer the best breakfast during our stay. A tipico (typical) breakfast is eggs, fruit, black beans, rice, bacon, sausage, toast, fresh juice, and coffee. The portions are large and very satisfying, yet the price is only about $3.00. For lunch, try Cecilia's Tipico Food, the street vendor close to the park.you can't miss it, just follow your nose! Cecilia or Rita will be happy to prepare a Casado (it means married, apparently if you are married it is what you'll eat everyday) with fish, chicken, or pork. It includes cheese mashed potatoes, black beans and rice, lime marinated radish salad, flour tortillas, avocado wedge, carrots with cilantro, or another vegetable of the day. The food is prepared under a tarp tent on the beach and the smell of the meats cooking on the barbeque make your mouth water. These huge helpings are budget friendly at about $4.00 and well worth trying each dish. For dinner, it's back to the Marlin for a relaxing culinary experience. The only problem you'll have is trying to choose between all the wonderful taste sensations. They offer an abundance of variety so that even the most discriminating palate will surely find something to their liking. Whether it is ceviche, surf and turf, or simply soup, the Marlin has it all. As an appetizer, or for a quick bite, the DeMariscos is a great choice. Its rich blend of seafood favorites and the robust broth balance perfectly with the white rice served along side. At about $5.00 you'll add this soup to your list of favorites, as well. Another suggestion is the ceviche. Fresh, local fish is marinated and "cooked" using lime juice and a blend of herbs. At just over $3.00, this tropical appetizer is a local favorite for good reason. The salteado de camarones y calamar (shrimp and calamari sautéed in olive oil, fresh garlic, white wine, and herbs) cost about $6.00 and is a splendid choice. Finally, for those who want to splurge, the Extravaganza features a combination of lobster, jumbo shrimp and beef tenderloin for two. After being spoiled by the low prices, the $41.00 price seemed high, but considering that it is the ultimate surf and turf dinner for two, you'll quickly agree that this dish is appropriately named the Extravaganza! Even more impressive than the superb food and great prices is the level of service. The staff goes out of their way to ensure that your whole dining experience is the best it can be. Without being intrusive, they make you feel welcome and appreciated. They exemplify pura vida with not only their attitude but their longevity as staff members (average of 4 years) at the Marlin. The genuine pride and desire to provide a memorable experience shines through as they make you feel as if you are truly the most important customer they have. Whether it's helping with a meal selection or simply helping you brush up on your Spanish, the friendly staff is more than willing to spread pura vida! One cannot reminisce about the Marlin without mentioning the most recognized staff member, Blue. She is a favorite for both the locals and tourists. Whether she's chasing the monkeys away from the bananas or simply lying around awaiting a pat on the head, this sweet Cocker Spaniel will easily steal your heart. Many activities are available to those seeking adventure in this paradise. The street is lined with small shops offering guided tours and trips of every type. From canopy tours, rafting excursions, ocean kayaking, zip line adventures, and even the much appreciated guided tour through the national park to easily spot a three-toed sloth, the abundance of white-faced monkeys, and congos. Water sports are also a major draw to this Shangri-La where the thick, green rain forest meets the turquoise waters of the Pacific. For those less adventurous boogie boarding or snorkeling is a fun and easily mastered diversion while those looking for a higher dose of adrenaline, kayaking, scuba diving, or surfing may be a better choice. Equipment for these activities is available to rent, as well as accompanying lessons, if needed. Although many choices are available, Kobe surf shop, named for the owner's adorable four year old son (who already surfs), offers lessons by locals who embrace pura vida and are happy to attend to your every need. In fact, if they cannot help you, they know who can and gladly direct tourist to the best deals and talents around. The candles still beckon to passers by, even though the sky has now cleared. The river's water has receded to reveal the main street. The power and water have been restored to service this tiny town. The funny thing is that it adds nothing but convenience, for the people are who make this town all that it is and all that it stands for. PURA VIDA! Information Marlin
Restaurant
Raccon
Tour
Kobe
Surf Shop
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