When I had found out I won the Pura Vida Adventure surf trip I didn’t really believe it, not until I had landed and saw our beachside bungalow did it hit me that this was actually real. I knew this would be a great trip but the experience ended up being beyond words.
I was so excited that I won the trip, except I realized if I wanted to learn to surf it would probably be a good idea to learn how to swim first. I’m being serious, I didn’t know how to swim and so the first steps of the adventure began. I started swimming lessons about 2 and half months before I came to surf camp. My last day of swimming lessons, we specifically practiced for surfing. I didn’t like going underwater so I practiced diving into water, and also went over how to tread water. I’ve always wished I knew how to swim, but never had a real reason to learn. So yeah I would say this trip pushed me to learn to swim. It was incredibly empowering to conquer 2 sports at once. I feel like one fed into the other. It’s strange because surfing made the water fun for me, where as before it was something that intimidated me. It’s actually made me want to continue to be in the water and continue swimming.
From the moment I arrived the energy was so positive. The images were like out of a movie, horses on the beach, with the sun and waves in the background. The first night I met our awesome surf instructors, Heather and Brett, resident expert Benny, and the other incredible women at camp. It was amazing to hear everyone’s life stories and how they ended up in Costa Rica.
Our days would start with yoga by the beach, becoming balanced while listening to ocean waters; this was followed by a fabulous breakfast and smoothies with fresh papaya, mango, and pineapple; then surfing with a combo of adrenaline and zen; relaxing afternoon of hammock time with a tropical cocktail or a massage if you choose; finally, a delicious dinner with great conversation and drinks flowing. Ahhh bliss!!
“I realized if I wanted to learn to surf it would probably be a good idea to learn how to swim first.” ~Arpita Badami
The best moment was the first time I caught a solid wave. Amazing!!! I couldn’t believe it. I used to be scared of water above my head, and somehow here I was actually surfing and loving it!! It still gives me chills. After that, I was like bring it on, I can do anything. I remember in one day I went surfing, paddled out into deep waters (which was the most terrifying for me), and zip lining (yes I also have a slight fear of heights). There is nothing like facing fears.
This adventure was revitalizing, relaxing, and healing all in one. It went far beyond my expectations. If someone asked me to plan my dream vacation I couldn’t have done it as well. I’m a changed person since this trip and have come back a better person. I wish I could share this experience with everyone. I have learned you can do anything you want. So make the time and find a way to go to Pura Vida Adventures. What you will leave with is priceless.
Arpita Badami won the Pura Vida Surf trip last November and had never swum before. She went on the trip in April and only started swimming 2-1/2 months prior to her surf adventure. I think her story is an inspiration for all women who have wanted to try a sport and were afraid. Her story is about conquering your fears and feeling empowered by achieving your dreams. I feel that everything is meant to be and that Arpita was meant to win this contest. She received a gift that has changed her and will always be a part of her life. ~ Tierza of Pura Vida Adventures
