Almost 20 years ago, I was a tad burnt out from modelling in Paris and Milan and needed a reset and visit to the ocean, so took a break to meet my sister and we travelled to Costa Rica for the first time. We spent time exploring the beautiful country before making our way to the Caribbean coast.
The moment we arrived in Puerto Viejo, I fell in love. The jungle was so lush, the ocean was so blue, the food was super fresh, and the reggae nights were SO damn good. I instantly wanted to stay forever. There are so many great days trips to do, hikes to go on and beaches to visit.
I came back again with friends shortly after to do a bodywork and massage course on the Pacific coast, and spent some beautiful time in Santa Teresa but once again – gaaah I found myself making my way back to Puerto. Recently, I felt so inspired to return and shoot my first global campaign for my swim and sport brand Rashi there. Wildly, it aligned with my friend and photographer Dianna Bartlett, who had also been spending some time in the pacific. I told her I was happy to meet and shoot, but that it had to be in the Caribbean.
Much of the inspiration for my debut collection for Rashi was inspired by my time spent in the Caribbean over the years; the music, the nature, the colours, painted houses and the people. The sun came out for all our shooting days (you can never count on this in the Caribbean, it can rain so much – it was like winning the lottery!) I am so connected with this place.
Where to eat
For breakfast: Bread & Chocolate. This is an institution. They make the best bread, everything is local and they have their own tiny chocolate shop where they use all-local cacao to make everything.
For lunch: Colphoneplace food truck this is the best spot to go have fried snapper and patacones (twice-fried green plantains). You can have a swim while you wait and just chill here all day.
For dinner: Another favourite – as it’s right on the beach and you can sit on the sand with sloths generally sleeping above you in the trees – is AMIMODO. It’s Italian-owned and has been there for years. You have to order the lobster pasta and sangria!
Where to stay
Hotel Aguas Claras. My dear friend, Elena, owns this Victorian-Caribbean jungle dream hotel. It’s an absolute must. They also have a great beach bar and epic food. Alternatively, there are some great AirBnbs in the area if you are travelling with more people. This is a great option as its always fun to buy fresh fish from the fisherman and have your own cook ups at home.
What to do
There are so many fantastic day trips. You can hire a bike and explore the beaches; head to the national park; go surfing; head to the waterfalls; go out for long dinners and then go to reggae night and have a dance. Hot tip: bring in some nice mezcal from duty free at the San Jose airport! I’d also recommend hitting up Surf the Jungle Surf School – it’s locally owned by Misael and has all the best tips in the area. You wont be dissapointed.
What to bring
A great crew of friends. Pack layers. You’ll also want some hiking shoes for a trek in the jungle. Lots of Rashi World swim and sportswear for hikes and some light throw overs. Sarongs – it gets hot here!
