Best Souvenirs to Bring Back from Costa Rica
It’s an age old tradition to share stories of amazing vacations with friends and family whilst unveiling and handing out gifts from said vacation. Costa Rica Beach Rentals knows that souvenirs are something cherished by not only those who traveled but those who stayed behind. In Japanese tradition, one is expected to bring back a tiny gift for everyone they know, while Western cultures often bring back bigger gifts for a select few. Whatever your tradition, Costa Rica Beach Rentals can point you in the right direction for the perfect gift, no matter the taste of your picky family members. In fact, Santa Teresa is such a hotspot for local creatives that there are a ton of items in this tiny town that can’t be found anywhere else in the world, and you’ll be dying to get your hands on some of the local swag, if for no other reason than to be part of the in-crowd during your luxurious Costa Rica Beach Rentals holiday.
It won’t take long to notice a large percentage of the locals population sporting hats, shirts, and stickers with the word “CREATED” plastered across it, along with one or more catchy phrases related to the area. This clothing brand was created by a young entrepreneur who grew up in Mal Pais long before there was ever electricity. Locals of Santa Teresa, whether tico or expat, take pride in their community that has grown into a top travel destination and the local garb reflects that. Brands aren’t just a brand here, they have a story and the people behind them you’re even likely to share a drink with at some point. By bringing home one of these souvenirs you’re not just supporting a clothing company, you’re supporting a way of life that is all about prioritizing a good time along with genuine kindness that is hard to find to this degree anywhere else in the world.
Another fantastic local establishment to support is Studio Colectiva. Primarily geared towards the feminine spectrum, but still with stylish garb for men, Studio Colectiva blends classy upscale fashion with laid-back beach vibes. Stop into their Plaza Norte shop location in North Santa Teresa and you’re likely to meet the designer and owner herself. It’s truly special to be able to speak to the artist and get the backstory of what may have inspired the piece and where all the materials were sourced from. Not only do you get to take home beautiful, locally crafted jewelry and fashion, but you’ll also get the story and experience to pass along each time someone comments on how beautiful it looks on you. Bring back soaps, palo santo, and other textiles to loved ones at home and you’re sure to be the talk of all the upcoming dinner parties.
Specialties from the country you visit are always good go-to’s for souvenirs and Costa Rica is world-renowned for its coffee. Grown in volcanic soils looking down onto cloud forests that are some of the most biodiverse in the world, Costa Rican coffee can be found as specialty coffee in North America and throughout the world, but nothing compares to the authentically fresh roasted blends you’ll find at The Roastery.It’s easy to become a coffee snob in Costa Rica and when you bring back a bag for each of your friends along with the conversation piece known as a “Chorreador de Cafe” or “coffee sock”, they’ll share your same enthusiasm and praise you for introducing them to flavor profiles that are like discovering a new color.
One item travelers won’t find anywhere else they travel is Costa Rica’s equivalent to ketchup. Actually closer to the historically original ketchup than the modern tomato-based iteration now known worldwide, Lizano is a mixed veggie condiment that can be found on any table of any restaurant nationwide and it quickly becomes a favorite to anyone who tries it. You’ll definitely want to bring home some Lizano for your own dinner table, but Costa Rica Beach Rentals recommends getting a whole case because all your friends are going to be asking where they can get their own bottle to take home. Best to be ahead of the curve here and get a mini-bottle for everyone you know, so your personal bottle stays intact for as long as possible!
So many fantastic souvenirs to bring back and Costa Rica Beach Rentals knows you’ll find even more original items along the way. Make sure to leave a little room in your luggage so you can bring back something special for everyone. Maybe the plan is a piece of custom fashion for family, a bag of coffee for close friends and bottles of Lizano for everyone at the office. Whatever the case, Costa Rica Beach Rentals knows you’ll make the best choice. Tune back in right here for more updates on all things Santa Teresa and Southern Nicoya Blue Zone because Costa Rica Beach Rentals doesn’t just want to find you the perfect luxury rental, we want you to have the best possible experience in our lovely jungle paradise!