A few days ago, I was perched atop a rainforest, looking out over a sweeping ocean. Toucans and jungle canopy surrounded me, replacing my New York City brownstone living at Rancho Pacifico and Vista Celestial — two luxury hideaways on Costa Rica’s south Pacific coast.
Although part of my family history is rooted in the lush rainforest, the “pura vida” way of life – local greetings and speech that reflect the relaxed, cheerful spirit of Costa Rican culture – felt strange to a New York transplant like myself. Living in an environment that encourages the pursuit of more has, unfortunately, left its mark on me.
This is evident in the bags I usually carry. It is usually large and spacious, with storage space for a book, water bottle, laptop, and a change of shoes. While that’s not inherently bad, I wanted to lean on the invulnerable power of culture instead, simplifying everything – including my travel essentials. So, I decided to reach for the same unfussy bag for all long trips: the Lululemon Everywhere Crossbody Bag.
Where Can I Get It?
From the moment I arrived at Juan Santamaría International Airport, the combined bag stopped working and kept moving. The adjustable strap made it easy to sling across my chest, and the bag stayed close to my body.
Once we arrived at the forest edge, it glided effortlessly into the rhythm of the arrangements, including fancy chef-led dinners and coffee-scrub spa appointments, where I could easily tuck it next to my seat without it getting in the way.
I was able to be fully present when I visited Alajuela, the town where my grandfather grew up. Because I could wear it all over my body, I didn’t have to think too much about where I left my things. And eight parts prevented me from digging into my phone or wallet.
How It Holds
The Costa Rican ecosystem doesn’t let you in easily – it sinks you in fast. However, the unpredictable weather, wildlife, and terrain posed no threat to the wallet.
During the secret tour of the 50 acres, the equipment went smoothly. The nylon picked up surprisingly little dirt, even after I wore it in sticky damp and muddy rainforest terrain. I wasn’t too good at it outside the forest. I brought it to Playa Hermosa, tossed it around the resort’s infinity pool, and wore it on a mangrove boat trip. Even after being caught in an unexpected storm, the bag dries quickly.
It’s also common to come into contact with monkeys, birds, iguanas, and critters during your stay, whether you’re enjoying a yoga session on your private deck or soaking in the outdoor shower in the treehouse suite. After all, you have enteredtheirshome, flocked to the forest.
What I have hidden
However, what surprised me the most was how well the bag held my belongings. Whether I was enjoying the expansive view at breakfast, taking a dip in my personal pool, or grabbing a fresh cup of coffee, it carried only the essentials.
My phone, SPF, lip balm, sunglasses, and wallet are all neatly placed together, cutting out the useless stuff. In a way, carrying less began to feel in sync with nature itself: stripped back and on purpose.
At the end of my trip, my concept of “carrying” changed, reminding me to stick to the essentials and leave the extra weight behind. After all, the bag is about simplicity: disappearing into the flow of the day while leaving room for what’s really important – which, in a place like Costa Rica, seems to be the whole point.
Like what you see? How about a nice R29, right here?
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