Tag Archives: Tico

5 Lessons Learned from Overcoming Culture Shock

Posted on November 6, 2013 by Noemi Gamel

Please visit my previous posts on defining culture shock and how to overcome it.  After going through all 3 stages of the cultural adjustment curve, I have learned a few lessons along this colorful roller coaster ride. I will have negative … Continue reading →

Posted in A Lesson Worth Learning, Becoming an Expat, Cultural Adaptability/CultureShock | Tagged , , , , , , , | 2 Comments

Hire a Tica to Teach You How to Cook

Posted on October 22, 2013 by Noemi Gamel

Tico cuisine is naturally low in fat, sodium and calories.  The locals use very little fat in their cooking.  They eat their vegetables fresh, steamed, or lightly sautéed. They don’t refry their beans in lard or bacon grease as is … Continue reading →

Posted in An Action Worth Doing, Becoming an Expat, Foodie Stuff, Living in Costa Rica | Tagged , , , , , , | Leave a comment

5 Lessons Learned From Embracing Pura Vida

Posted on October 9, 2013 by Noemi Gamel

1)    Life is good.  In my former life as a pediatric hospitalist, I took care of children with complex medical problems.  Many were technology-dependent to survive, required 24/7 nursing care, or were profoundly neurologically impaired.  And they wanted to live.  … Continue reading →

Posted in A Lesson Worth Learning, Living in Costa Rica | Tagged , , , , | 3 Comments

What Does Pura Vida Mean?

Posted on October 7, 2013 by Noemi Gamel

The phrase “Pura Vida” epitomizes Tico culture and lifestyle.  You will hear the term before you even leave the airport upon arriving to Costa Rica.  I knew about its use before I moved to Costa Rica because any book or … Continue reading →

Posted in A Question Worth Answering, Living in Costa Rica | Tagged , , , , | 12 Comments