What is a Blue Zone?
A “Blue Zone” is an area of the world where it is typical for people to live past 100 years old. One of the five designated blue zones in the world, the Nicoya Peninsula in Costa Rica features residents who live even longer than those in the rest of the country.
These “longevity hotspots” have been identified by scientists and demographers as having shared health characteristics and lifestyles that contribute to longer lifespans than the norm. Overall, Costa Ricans aged 60 enjoy the world’s longest life expectancy of any country.
According to research, genes only account for 30% of longevity, and lifestyle accounts for 70%. Costa Ricans, or Ticos as they are more often called, are proud of their nation’s more than 100-year history of social equality and democratic leadership. Since 1948, Costa Rica has not had a standing military, which has led to the expansion of government-funded initiatives for free education, accessible healthcare, low-cost housing, a just working environment, and environmental protection.
What region of Costa Rica is considered a Blue Zone?
The Nicoya Peninsula’s middle region is where Costa Rica’s Blue Zone is located. The cantons of Hojancha, Nandayure, Carrillo, Santa Cruz, and Nicoya are specifically included. Playas del Coco, Flamingo, Tamarindo, Nosara, and Sámara are among the well-known towns in these cantons; nonetheless, the locals who live extremely long lives typically reside in rural and mountain settlements rather than in these seaside tourist hotspots.
Scientists, nutritionists, anthropologists, and anyone interested in learning the secrets of vitality from the remote regions of nations with the highest longevity rates have been drawn to Costa Rica’s Nicoya Peninsula since it was named a Blue Zone.
Why is Costa Rica and Nicoya a Blue Region?
Here are the major factors that have helped Costa Rica become a Blue Region.
1. A slower pace of life
It is quite simple to notice that life here in Costa Rica moves slower than in the rest of the globe if you are fortunate enough to spend some time there. However, there is a feeling that if something isn’t completed today, it will still be there tomorrow. Rest time is respected; lunch breaks, afternoon naps, and Sundays are all intended as opportunities to unplug from work and re-energize.
2. Connection with nature
Costa Rica’s natural environment is particularly amazing. Locals experience a deep connection to nature that is becoming increasingly rare worldwide. The country is surrounded by a breathtaking environment. Many people who work outside are fortunate enough to breathe clean air and enjoy the sunshine daily. Popular activities include horseback riding, swimming, hiking, fishing, and surfing.
3. Local food
The abundance of local, fresh foods is one of the amazing parts of this culture. Almost every corner has a local farm stand selling fresh seasonal produce, and the trees burst with luscious exotic fruits. “Pipas,” which are iced coconuts, are widely available and will satisfy any thirst. Typically, family members pass along recipes that call for fresh, natural foods, which are then gently cooked with care and affection. Restaurants in Guanacaste offer a wide variety of cuisine and have a relaxed atmosphere that reflects the local culture.
4. Strong sense of family and community
Another significant characteristic shared by all the cultures in the Blue Zone is a strong sense of family and community. Family comes first, and numerous generations of families coexist close to one another, interact frequently, and support and learn from one another. Children frequently play outside, walk to school together, and are usually friendly and caring toward their neighbors. Unplugging from digital distractions allows different generations to interact and have fun together.
The lifestyle of Nicoya Peninsula Blue Zone
Hard effort is valued by the residents of the Nicoya Peninsula Blue Zone. During the dry season (December to May), it is nearly always clear and sunny, and many people lead active outdoor lifestyles. Outside, they eat, work, and unwind. Contrast this with North American lives, where people spend most of their time at home, work, or school. Regular sun exposure is a natural source of vitamin D, which supports the health of the heart and bones.
What does this mean to me as a traveler?
As a traveler, I would love to explore Costa Rica and its blue zone regions. The love and unity among locals, their love for the culture, food, and everything about their country, are worth exploring. Beautiful Costa Rica deserves to be considered among the healthier and more peaceful countries worldwide. If you haven’t visited here till now, do not be late. Plan your trip any time sooner.
The Bottom Line
This is such a great and soothing destination to visit because of the low-stress, natural, and healthy environment. The Nicoya Peninsula alone won’t necessarily improve your health or increase your chances of living to 100, but visitors frequently report feeling their stress leave their bodies when they arrive. Maybe this explains why retreats focused on well-being, yoga, mindfulness, and wellness are so common in Costa Rica’s Blue Zone. Check out TravelLuxCurator for more informative posts about Costa Rica and all around the world. Plus, it’s a platform that can help you decide and plan your next trip.
