In recent years, more and more people have been drawn to a lifestyle that blends adventure, simplicity, and purpose. One family that fully embraced this philosophy is Leya Abramson-Witz and her family, who made the bold decision to leave behind the hustle of Toronto and move to Costa Rica. Their journey wasn’t just a geographical shift—it was a conscious choice to live a more intentional, well-designed life. Inspired by their story, let’s dive into what it takes to design a life in Costa Rica, where the famous “Pura Vida” lifestyle becomes more than just a slogan—it becomes the foundation for everyday living.
Why Move to Costa Rica?
For Leya, the decision to move to Costa Rica wasn’t an impulsive one—it was the result of a series of life events that led her to reevaluate what truly mattered. Living through the long pandemic lockdowns in Toronto, the family faced the challenges of balancing work, school, and a growing sense of dissatisfaction with the fast-paced, consumer-driven lifestyle. They wanted something different, something more connected to nature, people, and real experiences.
A trip to Costa Rica in 2011 left a lasting impression, and when summer 2021 came around, the family found themselves yearning for the simplicity of the Costa Rican life. After two months of living there, working remotely, and exploring the country’s natural beauty, the family felt a profound shift. They weren’t just on vacation; they were truly living.
A Day in the Life of the Witz Family
In Costa Rica, the Witz family has learned to embrace the slower pace that defines the local culture. Their typical day starts early—5 a.m.—with the sounds of howling monkeys and chirping birds waking them up. After a quick breakfast and getting the kids ready for school, it’s time for work. Leya and her husband Greg, both working remotely, start their day early, ensuring they meet their commitments to their Canadian jobs.
In the afternoons, the family shifts gears. They explore the local area, checking in on their property, attending fitness classes, or simply spending quality time together. Evening activities revolve around family, whether it’s attending a jiu-jitsu class or gathering for a simple yet meaningful dinner. Weekends are reserved for social activities, like beach sunsets, bonfires, and catching up with friends—both old and new.
Living a Balanced, Healthy Lifestyle
The Witz family’s move to Costa Rica has redefined their approach to health and wellness. Living in a village, far from the conveniences of big-city life, has forced them to prioritize what really matters: health, family, and community. With outdoor activities being a central part of their daily routine, Leya has become an avid hiker, cyclist, and pickleball player. The idea of ‘being active’ isn’t a chore here—it’s woven into the fabric of everyday life.
This move has also allowed the family to cultivate a deeper connection to the natural world. “Pura Vida,” which translates to “pure life,” isn’t just a phrase in Costa Rica—it’s a way of being. It’s about embracing a slower, more fulfilling pace of life where people aren’t just working to live—they are living to enjoy life.
Social Life and Cultural Integration
For Leya, one of the most enriching aspects of living in Costa Rica is the community. The expat community in their town has become like an extended family—supporting one another through the ups and downs of this big transition. Costa Ricans are known for their warmth, and over time, the Witz family has built meaningful relationships with both locals and other expats. Costa Rican culture, which emphasizes family, community, and celebration, has become an integral part of their life.
They’ve embraced local traditions, including participating in parades, fairs, and the country’s many celebrations. The slower pace of life, where everyone takes a long lunch break and works to live rather than lives to work, has been a refreshing change from their previous experience in North America.
Challenges and Realities of the Move
However, life in Costa Rica isn’t all sunshine and easy living. The Witz family faced their own set of challenges, especially in the beginning. The language barrier was significant for their young children, but with patience and the help of tutors, they soon adapted. The country’s infrastructure, while beautiful and inspiring, also comes with its own set of inconveniences. Amazon isn’t as accessible, and the process of banking can be a slow, tedious affair. But these challenges were met with the same resilience and adaptability that defined their decision to move in the first place.
In addition to logistical hurdles, there was the emotional challenge of being far from family. Though they’ve made trips back to Canada, the physical distance from loved ones can sometimes feel difficult. Yet, the close-knit nature of their expat community has helped bridge that gap, creating a sense of belonging and support in their new home.
The Practicalities: Navigating Life in Costa Rica
While the lifestyle in Costa Rica may seem idyllic, there are practical considerations to take into account. Visa requirements, taxes, and healthcare are all important factors to navigate. Thankfully, Costa Rica has an established residency program for foreigners, and expats can find healthcare options that are both affordable and reliable.
Managing finances in a new country also requires some planning. The cost of living is generally lower than in North America, but managing income from remote work and budgeting for unexpected costs (like shipping personal items from the U.S.) requires attention. However, for those who are willing to make the necessary adjustments, the trade-off of a simpler, more fulfilling life is well worth it.
Final Thoughts
Leya’s journey to Costa Rica exemplifies what it means to live a well-designed life—one that prioritizes balance, community, and adventure. Costa Rica, with its stunning natural beauty, warm-hearted people, and slower pace, offers a unique backdrop for anyone looking to step away from the chaos of modern life and embrace something deeper.
For those considering a similar move, Leya offers one piece of advice: Just do it. The challenges of transitioning to life in a new country will always exist, but the rewards—more time with family, a stronger connection to nature, and a healthier, more intentional lifestyle—make it all worthwhile.
Ultimately, the Witz family’s move is a reminder that life is what you make of it. By embracing adventure, simplifying your priorities, and designing a lifestyle that aligns with your values, you too can create your own version of the Pura Vida.
