I have been back and forth about my decision to leave home and move to essentially the other side of the world. Costa Rica is one of my favourite countries, it has been at the top of my list of places to visit (alongside Hawaii). With countless things to do, some of the best beaches in the world and a plethora of fanua like no other, it truly is a place of wonder. What’s more, the beauty transpires further than just the beaches, it also reflects the country’s culture, people and ethics as a nation. They abolished their army in the late 40’s, which has subsequently increased finances for other sectors including eduction and healthcare. Leading to higher literacy rates and the best health care in central America. Their ethics go even further, as Costa Rica is one of the leading countries to embrace eco-tourism with over 25% of the country protected under national parks – a truly beautiful country in more ways than just one. Did I say the surf is pretty good too?

People ask why Costa Rica? To which I blurt out an impassioned list of reasons not too far from what I state above. Influences have played their part though. The book the Rum Diary by Hunter S Thompson (an alcohol-crazed adventure across Puerto Rico) fuelled my need for adventure, whilst films like Cocktail starring a fun 80’s Tom Cruise (New Yorker who packs his bags to bartend in the tropics of Jamaica) painted the picture of a tropical lifestyle. A lot can be taken away from this film, including many life lessons, cognans law is certainly something people should abide by.

I would be lying if I said I was not scared, I am terrified of finding myself back in England 6 months from now. Broke and jobless, with nothing more than a fading tan to show for my time, still chasing a dream that has left me behind. I have seen exactly this happen whilst travelling. I will not force anything during my time in Costa Rica however I will make sure I am with direction.

This was the opportunity which jumped out at me. I feel trapped in England, I do enjoy spending time with my family and the comfort of living at home, but that is part of the problem. It is too comfortable; I get agitated when I am here for too long. I know there is so much more out there, America gave me a taste of this. There is so many things to do and places to visit and people to meet.

I truly am looking forward to moving to such a diverse and beautiful country, in regards to Costa Rica’s nature, climate, culture and ethics as a country. It really is a remarkable country and I cannot wait to experience its beauty for myself. Only time will tell if it is the right decision, but it’s happening and I will embrace it. I am 21 years old and can afford to make such bold decisions, if not now then when?

Costa Rica is the chance for me to become fully independent and self-sustainable, have more time to do what I love and enjoy, and explore a world of new places. It will not be all palm trees and sunsets – as my blog ironically states – but hopefully it will be the right choice for me and I will be happy.

A positive frame of mind is an important prospect with a change as big as this. But not everybody has been supportive of my decision, some seek to belittle and dismiss choices made by others in aid to reassure themselves. I know not everybody is going to agree with the decisions you make. We each have our own unique way of living, there is no correct way in which we should all live our lives. We each love, appreciate and want different things from life, there are only common values in which we can all follow. The rest is up to you, that is the most important thing. Whatever you do, make sure you are doing it for you and that you are happy.

I will detail more on what I will actually be doing in Costa Rica in my next post, sloths are on the agenda.