“I was born in San Jose, Costa Rica in 1979 and moved to the United States when I was only 5. Sadly I did not retain any memory of my first five years in this amazing country. Luckily, Alyce subbed a class that I normally attended and mentioned the Discover Your Pura Vida retreat. I knew in my gut I had to sign up. When we landed in San Jose and I stepped on solid ground, I knew I was back home. It flooded over me like a waterfall. I feel so much gratitude and love towards Alyce and Ian for bringing me back to my home country and giving me the opportunity to experience new adventures with wonderful people. To this day, I feel more connected to Alyce, Ian and my Costa Rica travel buddy Bethany than most people in my life due to this trip.
I cannot stress enough - sign up for this trip! It will change your life! xoxo”
“The experience exceeded my wildest expectations. The balance between high adventure, terrifying (hello waterfall rappelling) experiences and restorative, relaxing (love that yoga gazebo) time spent was just right. I appreciated having a balanced schedule of a wide range of activities and eating experiences, along with not having to be concerned about how to get there. Kokoro was lovely...and was the ideal spot to be able to relax. Food was terrific, fresh and I never tired of it.
There's something special about being able to connect to a place and especially with people who you can return home with and continue the adventure. Ian and Alyce have developed an extraordinary week where people can fill their cup emotionally, physically and spiritually. These two special people with their intention and love bring out the best of a group. Their encouragement and willingness to help you as an individual, too, cannot be underestimated. Everyone was wholly accepted where they were, whether that be traveling alone, as a couple, as an older individual, one with little experience in yoga or the yoga-trained person. I valued that...and they are treasures and goes beyond our yoga practice during this retreat.
My worry was that I was going to be left behind or pushed to the point of getting angry or scared...maybe shamed for not being able to participate. NONE of that happened. In fact, the contrary occurred and I was the recipient of many gifts. I learned more about acceptance and see myself embracing it in my everyday life.
Thank you for helping some people 'fill in the blanks' about free time. Especially circling in those who were interested in the Hot River. I don't know if we would have been able to figure that out on our own, and we loved it!
Thank you so much for everything!”
— Karen, Pura Vida Tribe 2020