Do you know the way to San Jose ...? La la la la la la la la la la la ...
We didn't make it to the capital of Costa Rica, but at least I do now know where it is and how to get there. We did not, in fact, make it beyond Puntarenas, the small traditional fishing village situated on a narrow peninsula where the cruise ship berthed. We decided to stay and enjoy the atmosphere of this seaside location which is also favoured on weekends by the residents of San Jose as a seaside escape.

We docked at the end of a long pier connecting us to a long, black sandy beach. On one side the beach was clean and wide and clear, making a spot well used by swimmers and sunbathers. To the right of the pier an equally large, wide stretch of beach was covered in drift wood, with the odd sunbather claiming a small spot of sand amid what the ocean had washed ashore.

Puntarenas, which means 'sandy point', is the prime port of Costa Rica and also the country's most important fishing harbour. It had a real holiday feel about it, with many colourful stalls sprawled either side of a long path running by the beach. Although the day was very humid, the breeze coming off the water and the many palm trees and other tropical foliage provided a cool place to enjoy wandering about. The people were very friendly and hospitable and not at all over-bearing in plying their wares.

The Spanish language seems to roll off tongues in a cheerful, robust way which somehow implies a passion for life. I do love the Costa Ricans' popular expression, 'Pura Vida'. It means 'pure life', and as well as being used as a form of greeting it is also used as an affirmation of taking the time to enjoy life and celebrate good fortune.

So, 'Pura Vida' my friends. Know that I am enjoying and appreciating my good fortune and that everyday I am thankful to be lucky enough to experience these opportunities.