IDEA278: Inspiring Views & Tips for An Enjoyable Hot Air Balloon Ride in Napa Valley

You'd think that a little basket and some fabric would make for a bumpy ride. But before I could look up while fumbling with my camera bag, we were already floating up into the air! Our lift off was so gentle. Despite being able to visually see that we were getting higher, I could barely sense that we were moving. I had always heard that going on an hot air balloon ride was a must in Napa Valley...and now I know why. 

We were lucky enough to get the one clear day out of a series of rainy days and up in the open air, it was peaceful and breathtaking. It's a rare occasion, where 360 views are part of the whole experience...we could see all the way to the ocean and spotted many of the small wineries and homes that make up this little piece of sanctuary in northern California. After challenging ourselves to try this unique form of transportation, we celebrated with the rest of our balloon companions at Domaine Chandon with bubbles and breakfast!  
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PHOTOS: MU-HSIEN INC

3 Tips for an Enjoyable Napa Valley Balloon Ride

1 - Go for the early morning rides. There's less wind and it makes for the smoothest experience.

2 - Go with the company that offers pick up from your hotel. Especially convenient if you're going for an early balloon ride and if you've had a few glasses of champagne after the ride!

3 - Bring an extra layer or hat, it can be much cooler up in the air. 

To experience this for yourself, get in touch with Napa Valley Balloons Inc. who happened to be the top recommendation from our concierge at Auberge du Soleil. 

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Get everyday ideas to create a sense of wonder @LiveLikeYoureTraveling  

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Saalhof Vineyard : Be A Bon Vivant Anywhere

Does one have to live in France to be a Bon Vivant? Or be present in Italy to experience La Dolce Vita? And why do we strongly associate certain delicious experiences with a particular place... Most importantly, how do we translate "living the good life" for ourselves and set out to create a lifestyle we want right where we live!

To me, being a Bon Vivant has a lot to do with enjoying what your local region has to offer. And I feel nothing inspires this appreciation more than eating and drinking of the land. Just like the mysterious concept of terroir suggests that the taste of wine embodies climate, terrain, soil and even traditions of a place, similarly why not we as people enjoy where we live by truly embracing all the elements.  

So the other week I went on a Bon Vivant excursion to experience the bounty of my adopted land, The Netherlands! Why not go wine tasting and see how the 'terroir' here affects the wine. We decided to go to Saalhof Vineyard in Wognum.

Vineyard!? In the cold and wet Netherlands? My surprise was big as yours, but apparently yes, there are more then 170 commercial vineyards according to Winehoek. 

The Saalhof Vineyard or, Wijngaard in Dutch, is in the region of West Friesland which is in the North West of The Netherlands. Historically fiercely independent and a bit stubborn people live there. I mean, how many floodings would you put up with before deciding that maybe you should not live in an area that's not meant to be above water? Well, none of that for West Frisians. They keep plugging away, sucking the land dry... for centuries! This resilient spirit is probably what's responsible for the success of Siem and Ada Loos, the creators of Saalhof Vineyard. 

To grow wine in such a cold wet climate is tricky to say the least. The vines must be planted further apart to give grapes a chance at catching those illusive rays of sun for a few minutes a day. The foliage must be trimmed often so that grapes are well ventilated and stay dry otherwise they can rott. Thus the position of grapes on the stalk is important... the list goes on. And even after all that, not just any ol' grape will grow in this climate. It takes a special kind of grape! For example the Souvignier Gris, a grape variety invented in Germany in 1983, and the Rondo, created in 1964, a grape very resistant to winter frost and mildew.

So what in the world possessed Siem and Ada to start a vineyard? Apparently one too many bottles of wine... literally. They were sitting around with neighbours, drinking wine and talking about France and the art of enjoying life. About the romantic atmosphere of the French vineyards, of reaping the fruits of your land and then gathering with family at the end of the day to enjoy a big meal all together. For Siem it wasn't just wine fueled talk, it sparked a realization of the kind of lifestyle he wanted, and inspired a mission to create it right here in his own country. 

My family immediately felt the joyful vibe as we pulled into the vineyard with its neat rows of vines, large tables set up outdoors for communal eating, and an inviting guest house. It was a gorgeous fall day with sun shining and with a glass of sparkling wine it did feel like we were somewhere in the French countryside. We came with my husband's cousin's family and their two kids for the open day and spontaneously decided to linger on for dinner.   

It was such a pleasure to walk through the vineyards, of course the kids ran around, exploring and playing hide and seek between the vines. I tried Secco "Het mirakol uit Westfriesland" (The miracle of West Friesland), a sparkling white wine. Made with Johanniter white grape, created in 1968 specifically to grow well in cold and moist regions. After falling in love at first sight with the place, I was worried the wine may not match the expectations. But those worries proved unfounded. From the first sip Secco is an absolue delight. True to the name, the wine is pleasantly dry, and fresh with a delicate aroma of green apples and melon. Light sparkle brought out further the citrus undertones of lemon and grapefruit. Yum!

We stayed to eat the most delicious burgers and home fries at the restaurant, Saalig. The sun was setting and we poured another glass of Rondo, a red wine made with Rondo and Pinot Noir grapes, to help "wash down" the satisfying dinner.  

It was a perfect afternoon! Also the family and staff are really welcoming and happy to chat with you about their work. Of course the best part is the feeling of joie de vivre that washes over you from spending a leisurely afternoon with your family without rushing and just giving each other attention. 

I grabbed a few bottles of wine to bring home and made a note to come back for one of theme dinners at Saalig. Oh and you bet I signed up to be on the list of volunteers to harvest the grapes! 

I challenge you to think about what does being a Bon Vivant mean to you? And how can you make it happen right where you live! Maybe a visit to a local vineyard can help with some inspiration...

Here is a video interview of the owner of Wijngaard Saalhof by Tasty Tales: 

KM Zero Tours : Slow Travel for a Taste of the Sweet Life in Tuscany

This special edition of "Take Us To Lunch" is actually an invitation to a virtual dinner! Our new friends Arianna, Olivia and Alessio of Km Zero Tours take us to an authentic polentata al fresco at a Tuscan casa.  

• • •

Alla: What is Polentata? Arianna tells us all about this traditional Italian peasant meal...

Arianna: Polentata is an old recipe from the Abruzzo region, the birthplace of Alessio. This recipe was born as a traditional dish for poor people who could not afford to buy many ingredients or even enough plates for the entire family. It is made with corn flour, a type of flour that typically cost less than wheat flour. People cooked polenta in a large, deep pot, stirring constantly for a long time. When polenta was ready, they poured it directly onto the table, eating it right away, all together, not using any dishes!

The traditional sauce for polenta was tomato sauce enriched with a single sausage (given the high cost) which was used to give flavor to the entire sauce and was eventually designated to head of the house. We have decided to re-propose this ancient dish for our guests, enriching it with more sauce and sausages! ;-)

The best thing about this experience is that we eat together at the same table, sharing values and ideas and becoming friends.  

How did this idea of sharing Italy with visitors come about and what does Km Zero mean?

The expression “Km Zero” (literally “no distance”) products, refers to a conscious choice to buy quality products and to consume them as close as possible to their area of production, ensuring freshness, seasonality and biodiversity, as well as strengthening connection with the land.

Arianna: Inspired by this concept we developed our project “Km Zero Tours,“ wanting to give people authentic tasting experiences, letting them re-discover ancient traditions and refine their palettes by understanding the journey of a product from farm-to-table.

Alla: When your guests return home, what would you like them to bring back to their countries from this experience?

Arianna: The best souvenir our guests can bring home is to become fully aware of how a product originates, understanding its history, tradition and the hard work and passion of the producers. We'd love for them to rediscover the pleasure of sharing experiences and values with others, which encourage them to interact with local people, actively engaging with them.

Alla: How did you and your partners meet? How did you decide to start this business together?

Arianna: Olivia and I are sisters, so we didn't actually "meet," but Alessio (my boyfriend) and I met 9 years ago in Bologna and immediately felt we had in common an endless love for our land and for its products. Precisely this love and genuine passion has led us to get to know a lot of different local producers and to taste their products. It opened our eyes. In most cases we felt that there was no real information about what we eat, and most of all there was no way to witness the passion, experience and knowledge of producers.

We created Km Zero experiences to help people to get a taste of Tuscany from a local perspective, through authentic products and meeting genuine and passionate local producers. 

Alla: Is there a specific moment you can share when you felt especially inspired to be on this journey of sharing Italy with the world?

Arianna: We love to tell the story of a time we went shopping at a local market to buy vegetables, cheeses and other products. It was our turn at the stand of fresh vegetables and we asked the lady if she could give us some fava beans (fave toscane). It was late in the afternoon, and she told us that unfortunately the fava beans were already gone. In any other country, perhaps the conversation might have ended at that point, but in Italy, the market is not only a place to buy products, but a place where you can exchange experiences and stories...and you always finish your day with some nice surprises!

In Italy, those who are not in a hurry, ready to stop just to have a chat and listen to people...are the ones who gain the most!

The lady invited us to wait until the end of her working day, to go with her to her house, where she would give us fava beans directly from her garden. We were not in hurry, so we decided to wait. Not only did we get fresh and delicious fava beans, but we saw her beautiful country house, met her family, and even stayed there for dinner! We returned home with new vegetables and  friends, having tasted incredible food while sharing inspiring stories. 

Alla: What is your greatest challenge for you in your business?

Arianna: The most difficult thing being able to transmit a real experience through virtual channels such as the web. Despite this difficulty, we are still managing a method that allows us to overcome this obstacle and to be able to express our philosophy, passion and project. 

We "Live Like We're Traveling" every single day as we discover and encourage our guests to discover a different and charming world...from the artistry of olive oil making to woodworking.

Every experience represents an interesting journey and collection of stories, experiences, parfumes and flavors, that deserve to be savored. The best way to live the "dolce vita" is to follow the rhythms of this beautiful and charming country, enjoying its atmosphere and observing the people. To comprehend their gestures, listen to their stories and take part in the slow and creative lifestyle.

• • •

Thank you Arianna, Olivia and Alessio! For sharing your work with us today and for sharing Italy with the world in a way that brings us closer to it's people and their way of living. Your advice for living la dolce vita is a great inspiration for us to get to know our own local producers wherever we happen to live. Thank you for reminding us that our taste buds are made happier not only by healthy food but by truly connecting over a meal and taking the time to talk with each other and listen to each others stories. 

{ Experience the Sweet Italian Life }

With Km Zero Tours you can really touch Italian culture. Have you ever wondered what it's like to be a wine maker? You can now experience it first hand. What about making goat cheese yourself along side cheese artisan themselves...or prepairing a slow cooked meal from the freshest ingredients while learning Italian? 

{ Live The Sweet Life In Tuscany }

For a complete immersion in the Tuscan way of living, stay in a stone villa, Casa Montrogoli, on the hills overlooking vineyards and rows of Cyprus trees. Perfect for bringing your entire family along!        

ALL PHOTOS VIA KM ZERO TOURS

• • •
For more ways to connect with the people and world around you,
get everyday ideas @LiveLikeYoureTraveling

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Airbnb Tree Houses : Plan an Escape that Taps Your Inner Child

There's something about being in a treehouse that automatically sets the stage for adventure. Maybe it's because you're up in the treetops with a bird's eye view, completely tucked away from it all. You can't help but feel totally separated from your normal life and you truly are nestled in the beauty and awe of nature. Surrounded by a symphony of outdoor sounds, you belong to the woods, beach or jungle, yet there are the creature comforts to keep you safe and cozy. Do you remember the last time you were in a treehouse? What did you feel?! I've got a bit of a softspot being that we got married in a treehouse. Let's reminisce for a quick second...

Ahh our ceremony was held completely nestled in the trees. There's just something about being completely off the ground. Ok sorry...I'm back. – Today, we go tree-hopping for some inspiration for your own escape! All treehouses can be booked via airbnb.com.

• • •
Rainforest Treehouse, Cooper, Costa Rica
This hideaway puts you in the middle of rainforest-creature-watching and hotsprings dipping.

• • •
Artsy & Rustic 1927 Tree House, Los Angeles, California
The perfect personal retreat, suitable for tea, reading and a whole lot of pampery me-time.

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The Shitake, Cave Junction, Oregon
Need to write that book you've been meaning to get to? This treehouse for one has your name written all over it.

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Tree Sparrow House, Cornwall, UK
Wake up with your hunny to a sunrise over the orchards and breakfast in bed...

• • •
Treehouse at Kilauea Volcano, Volcano Hawaii
Don't even get me started on outdoor showers... what an indulgent treehouse amenity! :)

I hope you're feeling fully inspired to seek a playful refuge. You can't help but have fun in a such a unique setting!


• • •  INSPIRE YOUR GLOBAL NEIGHBORS  • • •

Show us how you get Zzz's in the trees and
TAG: #LiveLikeYoureTraveling on Instagram, Facebook
or leave a comment below with a photo or link. 

Get everyday adventure ideas @LiveLikeYoureTraveling  

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IDEA145: Get Deliriously Happy with Samba

{ Beija-Flor Samba School at the Sambadrome in Rio, Brazil} 
via @stefany_dentista

Are you aware that the biggest party of the year is happening as we speak all over Brazil!? It's Carnival time!  A week long party with samba school parades, music, street parties and elaborate balls when Brazilians simply stop everything and just basque undisturbed in delirious happiness. What is "delirious happiness"? It is a capability to let go of any problems or issues and to concentrate solely on being happy in that moment. It is an amazing skill that Brazilians possess and we all should learn. Let's go and take a peak...

• • •

{ The elaborate floats, Beija-Flor at the Sambadrome }  
via @kadudantas
 

In Rio de Janeiro, in the famous Sambadrome, Samba schools parade for two nights, showing off their elaborate floats, singing, dancing and going wild together with the crowd. The parade usually starts in the evening and goes till just about sunrise.  

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{ Street scene, Salvador de Bahia }  
via @claudio_vasconcellos
 

In Salvador de Bahia and other cities the carnival is more 'grounded' where the spectators actually take part of the procession following their chosen samba school. Outside of Rio the celebrations have more of a street party feel.  

• • •

{ Deliriously happy in Salvador de Bahia! }  
via @prizinha_

Whether you're in Rio or Salvador the way it works is you buy a ticket for the duration of the carnival which gets you a spot in a "Camarote" or team if you will. Your camarote organizers takes care of everything such as security, designated area to watch the processions, after parties, open bar and cold buffet. You also wear the same outfits to stay distinguished from other groups. A full access ticket for the entire week of the carnival can run you about $600-$800. I wasn't kidding when I said "undisturbed" happiness, you don't have to think of anything except having fun for a whole week straight! 

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{ Equally delirious in Rio! }  
via @amandacapellani
 

I had a special chance to learn about this delirious happiness when I visited Rio with a good friend of mine who is Brazilian. There is nothing like sampling it first hand and I highly recommend it for everyone young and old-er. It's not about partying non stop and going crazy, it's about being able to turn off all your "troubles" and just get happy for the sake of being happy and alive. It's one magical skill! It does take practice if you're not used to it. Brazilians practice it weekly, and they've even designated a special day for it, it's called "sexta-feira" or Friday... Once Friday comes, nothing else exists except getting together for a barbecue, meeting at the beach, and simply enjoying time with friends and family. Not a bad guide for a weekend.

Learn more about the carnival vocabulary.  
Perhaps plan to visit in person next year?

And don't forget, there is probably a Brazilian Carnival celebration happening right in your own city!

• • •     LESSONS LEARNED #54    • • •

Learn to be deliriously happy and you'll learn how to notice the blue horizon above your challenges. 

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IDEA143: Get On the Edge

{ P on Mt. Huashan in Huayin, China }  

Why is it that when we travel it's so easy to take all kinds of risks? Maybe because we're somewhere for the first time and we don't know when we might be back, so it's always a "once in a lifetime chance"? We bravely climb things we probably should not be climbing, since "this mountain ONLY exists here!" We eat things that... well, are most definitely NOT kosher, because when in Tokyo...we talk to strangers as they're not really strangers they're fellow friendly travelers, and that makes them practically family! And we speak our minds, since our friends are not here to judge us and our co-workers will never hear the drift of it...

Boy... sounds like we live on the edge when traveling and have one heck of a time!!! 

• • •

{ Mu-Hsien climbing Jade Mountain in Taiwan }

The other day I came across a terrifying looking hike. Immediately a thought crossed my mind, "I would NEVER..." As I continued looking at the pictures of the happy and smiling travelers I reluctantly admitted to myself that yep, I probably would have. If I'd have found myself at the entrance to the trail, I'd have talked myself into risking my life doing the plank path just because it's a "once in a lifetime chance!" When is the next time I'll get an opportunity to have tea at Buddhist temple on Mt. Haushan??? 

So what happens when we get home? We don't even want to leave the house if it's a bit rainy... Where does our sense of adventure go? But there is no Mt. Haushan where I live! And the mountains we have, I've done them! You might say pouting cutely while stomping your fuzzy bunny slipper. (And when I say "you" I mean "me," because I totally stomp my feet.) 

• • •

{ L in Colorado, USA }   

No Mt. Haushan where you live? Oh really!? Maybe it's really not about a MOUNTAIN. It's about having the guts to live out experiences that get our blood pumping and heart racing, that make us say: "wow I can't believe I'm doing this!" And really, the opportunities to have these kinds of experiences are all around us if you really think about it. Let us count the ways...

Do you love your job? If not, then why not look for another one? If you're in the wrong field all together, change fields! Scary huh? Less scary then Mt. Haushan or..?

Is there someone you've been meaning to apologize to? And it's been years? Why not call them up... Blood pumping yet?

What about organizing your garage? Ok, less dramatic, but I bet the sense of accomplishment just might equal one after climbing Mt. Haushan. (This is on my list.) 

We shouldn't loose our gutsy side just because we are not in a picturesque, once in a lifetime setting. The decision process to take the risk and go for it is really the same whether we climb a dangerous mountain or decide to change something in our lives.   

I personally am very risk averse when it comes to climbing things, so there is no dangerous looking picture of me, but trust me I get out on the edge in other ways. Like those magenta, crocodile print boots I got in Prague...and now I leave you to meditate on all this at the Pulpit Rock.

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{ @Lyngaasa, Pulpit Rock in Stavanger, Norway }  

• • •     LESSONS LEARNED #53    • • •

Risk taking is a sport of it's own. 

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IDEA 142: Contemplate Life in Patagonia, Argentina

Love, marriage... then perhaps kids?

When did you realize for the first time that you wanted kids?  
Was it a specific moment or a slower kind of realization? 

Here is how the brilliant idea struck me. 

It took a trip to the end of the world* for me to have the moment. I remember it exactly, especially because it crept up on me so unexpectedly. It happened on a platform overlooking the dramatic Perito Moreno glacier in Patagonia, Argentina.  Never have I been the kind of person who visualized being a mom and holding chubby babies in my arms. In fact I was always squeamish if friends offered for me to hold their baby.  Like, “NO! You do realize I can drop that thing right!??” I can only shake my head now. 

Then I met Vito and Vito said he wanted kids. The more we talked about it the more I tried to get used to the idea. I played a game called, “Would this be possible with a kid?” I asked this question whenever I was having fun. Reluctantly I had to admit that many of the times the answer would be yes. Still I wondered, is it right for me to have kids when I've never experienced that "warm and fuzzy" feeling of wanting to be a mom? What if that feeling never came? And worse, what if the feeling came when it was too late to even have kids!?

So there we were, enjoying the magnificent scenery of the glacier. We stayed by the rail captivated for close to an hour. If you've ever seen a glacier then you know how hypnotic it is to just watch how every few minutes a little chunk (the size of a 5 story building) cracks off and slides into the water below almost as in slow motion. Mesmerized we stood thinking about how lucky we were to be on this amazing adventure seeing and experiencing things we never have before. I felt completely fulfilled and happy. I had my man with me, and we had Perito Moreno before us. Just then, a family: mom, dad, and four little boys arrived on the platform. There was immediate commotion as the rambunctious boys were more interested in chasing and pushing each other (dangerously close to the railing) than admiring the glacier. Finally the parents, ending up each with two boys practically hanging off of them like monkeys, stood leaning into each other to admire the scenery. And that’s when it hit me. “The feeling.” Except it was not warm and fuzzy. It was sharp, urgent and uncomfortable. It was jealousy. That couple had Perito Moreno AND four boys. We only had Perito Moreno and no boys! Zero! Not even one boy! What's more, they even had the audacity to look like they were enjoying the glacier experience and bonding as a family at the same time. The nerve on them! 

I watched the four boys with a brand new captivation, Perito Moreno now relegated to simply being the backdrop, as I realized that perhaps the next “BIG” adventure Vito and I are always looking for could indeed be...parenthood.

We'll be back with "Part 2" to show you four unique places to stay in Patagonia that are very "conducive" to this whole life contemplating business...
 

• • •    LESSONS LEARNED    • • •

Life's greatest adventures don't require travel to the ends of the earth, though we may need to go there to realize it. 

{ For more far away travel ideas, visit our Pinterest board: RemoteTravel }

IDEA137: Bring Good Luck with a Chinese New Year's Tradition

I feel pretty lucky to know another home outside of the U.S...to know another language...a whole very different culture from the American side of me. I was born in Taiwan and with Chinese New Year's coming up and all, I figured I'd give you a little glimpse into what fond memories I have of my hometown AND to give you a peek into some of our Chinese Traditions. 

I'm hoping that some of this *luck* will rub off on you this week! 

• • •

{ 18 Peaks Park, Hsinchu, Taiwan }  
Taiwanese people are serious about their parks. It's a way of life. Zen-like parks are everywhere. You'll find old and young enjoying the flowers and many hiking trails overlooking mountain peaks and views of the city.

• • •

{ Hsinchu Noodle Stand } 
We are pretty darn serious about our food as well. And I don't think my husband really understood
why I love noodles so much until he tried them for himself in my hometown. 

• • •

Every time I smell the exhaust of scooters...I am instantly transported to a bustling scene like this.
Although it's a small island, it should not be understimated...my grandmother had dial up before I did!

• • •

{ Sun, Moon, Lake, Nantou, Taiwan } 
Meanwhile in the countryside...it's as though you've stepped straight into a mystical story.
Taiwan's mountainscapes are a favorite. They have a distinct way of layering and fading into the distance.

• • •

{  Chinese New Year's Tradition }
I used to love seeing these red envelopes. They were always filled with LUCKY MONEY 
gifted from my parents or elders! Red is a symbol of good fortune and practically everything is red...This is just one of many aspects of New Year's to bring in luck. Families also clean the house to sweep away the bad luck and making room for good fortune in the coming year. (via @zyucy)

• • •

{ Lantern Festival 2013, Hsinchu, Taiwan } 
This marks the end of the chinese lunar year, and the end of the New Year's celebration.
(My cousin pictured is clearly too excited about this all to keep it to herself) 
 

• • •

New Year's is a big deal. Parade of lights, light up the town along with the lanterns...
(via @ben_issac)

2014 is the year of the Wood Horse, and each year the symbolic animal brings on a certain "vibe" to the year. Not all animals bring good things to the year. Fortunately for us, horse year is considered VERY LUCKY...so get ready for big wins, romance and unexpected adventures!

• • •     LESSONS LEARNED    • • •

Love it? Share it! - We are dedicated to sharing stories that spark ideas and are meaningful to you. The best way to let us know is to post a comment, like below or pin on Pinterest! ~ For More ways to Live Like You're Traveling, follow us on Feedly, Bloglovin, Pinterest, or Facebook. 

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IDEA136: Look Up & Get Lost in a Skyscape (Riviera Maya)

I did double-takes...triple-takes and allowed myself to get lost in it. Lost in each of the skyscapes that I encountered on our last-minute 5th yr. anniversary trip. Last summer, we set off to the Riviera Maya in Mexico for a little exploration and R&R. It takes me a few days just to unwind and get used to not having to be so darn *productive* all day, so I definitely took note of these times where nothing else really mattered...no worries fought for my attention and no problems were needing to be solved. 

Here is to allowing for some drop-everything-to-take-it-in moments this week!
Warning! Looking at these may cause a calming effect!

• • •

Returning to our casita, I turned around before stepping inside,
to notice that the sun was saying goodbye over the serene water...

• • •
As we headed out to dinner, I stopped in the middle of our stairs. 
This unassuming little moon had my attention.

• • •
I made an effort to get up earlier than usual and this was my reward. 
When the heavens speak...I listen!

• • •
And sometimes a little orchestration is called for,
Room service with a view doesn't just happen on its own!

• • •     LESSONS LEARNED    • • •

Look up to the sky for your anchor. 

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Take Us To Lunch : Living Pura Vida in San José with Cueropapel&tijera

We are continuing our adventures in Costa Rica with Sofia Protti founder and designer at cueropapel&tijera who is taking us on a tour of her regular lunch spot in San José. This place happens to be El Mercado Central where you can find little sodas (eateries) and all kinds of colorful wares. A place you can really soak in some atmosphere, let's go?!!

• • •

I went to El Mercado yesterday! It was nice to visit this time having in mind what things would be interesting to see and to know for other people. I enjoy food so much that El Mercado is like a party to me. Herbs, seafood, vegetables, lots of fruits, the smell of plantain leaves that are so usual at this time of the year to cook "tamales" our traditional Christmas meal... uh! It is wonderful!

I never get bored here, as there is always something new! A different kind of "chili" or a new fruit, or simply a little spot that has been there for years, that you haven't noticed before. As usual, what I did yesterday was to have Fresco de frutas, a frozen fruit juice made of chopped fruits (banana and papaya mostly) and syrup. This is so classic, and delicious. So after the walk you have to do to get to El Mercado, where you need to start your journey is Fresco de Frutas.

• • •

After that, I wander around the market to see the handicrafts. You can find the traditonal market bags made out of "cabuya" (a natural fiber produced here), small leather bags, post cards, baskets, and "hamacas." The coffee shops are all over too.

My favorite picks are the "cabuya" bags because of their colors, the thread, and their long lasting quality. Every housewife in Costa Rica should have one, as all our grandmas did. It is so meaningful to me. Not only for the colors and shape, but for the memories I have going to the market with my grandma. Her bag was aged and had so much personality that I found it unique and special and also because of all the good stuff we put in it. 

Leather handicrafts are also my favorites. I get so much inspiration here as I am always trying to reinterpret the traditional styles into my own modern version of it. 

• • •

Then I finally go back to Soda San Martin. The place where I get my fresco de frutas and my soup. This place was stablished in 1953, and it is well known for the typical local food. Their specialty is the Olla de Carne, a meat soup with a lot of vegetables, but today I was craving the Seafood soup!

Tell us a bit about your country and your work...

What I love the most about my home place is our style. We are easy going, friendly, full of opportunities, education, and progressing forward is a chance that everyone has. 

One thing I would like to see improved is our ambition (in a good sense). Costa Rica is such a good place to live that we easily get into a "comfort zone" that makes us lose our competitiveness. We lack ambition and a sense of empowerment, which I admire in other countries. I studied Industrial Design at the University, but leather has been a part of my life since I was a little girl. My grandpa who was a leather craftsman supported our family by creating leather bookbinding and other crafts.  I loved being at his workshop playing or "working" with little pieces of leather during my free time. I decided to switch from my design career to my grandpa's passion. 

When he got sick, I realized that the only thing I could do to keep him "alive" was to do what he loved.

I did not start the business thinking it was going to be my grandpa´s business forever, and by the time I felt strong and clear about what I wanted to do, I decided to take the best of his work and make my own version of it. So that´s how I founded CueroPapel&Tijera* in 2008. (*leather paper & scissors) 

Costa Rica's essence is easy to infuse into my products. For inspiration, I visit local spots for coffee, talk to people, and I take lots of pictures of every flower I find, the sky, greens in the views, rain, and everything that resembles our country. So I AM Costa Rica and translating this feeling to my designs is something I do through texture, color, and simplicity. A very Costa Rican saying, Pura Vida, means an agreement of life to me! We say "Pura Vida" intead of saying "hi" or "ok." "Pura Vida," is our phrase for everything. We even say it in place of "thanks!"  

So, this is exactly who we are: "Pure Life."

(Follow Sofia on Instagram (@sofiaprotti) to see more of this pure and colorful Costa Rican life.)

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What is one thing you recommend to do in Costa Rica to experience this Pura Vida?

My recommendation would be to see a sunset with a cup of coffee. Trust me our coffee is the best. The air is so perfect and the light is gold. Birds sing and you can have tamales with coffee, which is pretty close to glory I guess.
 

SOFIA'S FAVORITES FOR SAN JOSE:

Lunch spot: 
Soda San Martin in El Mercado Central 

Coffee:
Sofia's daily favorite coffee "1820." The name refers to the year Costa Rica started exporting coffee beans. Coffee production used to be the country's main economic activity (it is now tourism), and still remains the biggest export. 

Sharing always goes both ways, giving and taking. Thank you Alla and Mu-Hsien for taking the time and showing interest in my small unique homeland, Costa Rica. I hope others can also join this giving and taking experience, from which I have already learned so much.

Always welcome to Pura Vida land!
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Sofia 
OTSP Neighbor Profile : Cuero Papel & Tijera  

Thank you global neighbor Sofia for taking us to lunch and sharing your Pura Vida way of thinking and working... I think we are definitely inspired to pay closer attention to nature's kaleidoscope and be open to the inspiration it sends our way!  (Photos: via Sofia) ~ Sofia helps us infuse our life with vibrant colors and simple and pure Costa Rican sensibility through her modern yet rich in history artisan leather bags and accessories. 

 { Alla's Picks }

 { Mu-Hsien's Picks }

• • •     LESSONS LEARNED #44    • • •

Inspiration is all around us, 
you just have to look through a fresh pair of eyes to see it.

 Get everyday adventure ideas @LiveLikeYoureTraveling

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