Cost of living in the Nicoya Peninsula Living in paradise does come with a cost. Keep fruit trees in their gardens and eat plentiful amounts of fresh, ripe tropical fruits including papaya, mango, chico zapote, pineapples, oranges, bananas, and lemons. The soaking process makes the corn more digestible and the lime infuses it with calcium and liberates amino acid, which greatly raises its nutrient value. Nicoya Peninsula, Costa Rica Categorized as a hot, dry, forest climate, the region has no real summer or winter. These habits are characteristics of all five Blue Zones. She continued to live with a family member and contribute in a meaningful way, giving her life continued purpose, including cooking an example meal for her surprise guests. Eat plentiful amounts of black beans and other beans on a daily basis. Yet again, they eat little if any fish. Much of the food is . So here are a few things to consider before you take the plunge. Huh! Ed #2798 Oficina #8 This Nicoya advantage does not occur in females, is independent of socio-economic conditions, disappears in out-migrants and comes from lower cardiovascular (CV) mortality (DRR = 0.65). We won't post to any of your accounts without asking first. There is a part of me that does not want to shine a light on this part of their diet. For 11 months out of the year, the temperature ranges from a high of mid-80s to a low of mid-70s, with one month, January, being significantly cooler. Farm Development Parcel, Nicoya Peninsula, Guanacaste 1,603.714 ac Lot Size Residential $4,394,942 USD View Details 6 C - 40 - 2, Jungle View Elevated Lot, 15 min Walk to the Beach, Nicoya Peninsula, Guanacaste 0.12 ac Lot Size They eat light dinners; incorporate plant-based foods like squash, corn, and beans into their diets; and have access to plenty of whole grains, veggies, and fruits. Hotel Leyenda, Restaurante y Pizzera. 1. Expect to pay around $120 USD for each flight one way. This means that the peninsulas residents never have to worry about vitamin D deficiency. With all the talk about various intolerances to grain, I wonder if the answer is here in these ancient cultures and traditions that render grains both more nutritious and more tolerable. Extended Nicoya Peninsula Adventure 8 SJO More than $2000 p.p. Box 2486, Alpine, CA 91903 (619) 743-4263 |, Centenarians Walk Their Way Through A Longer Healthy Life, Okinawan Sweet Potato Boosts Your Anti-Aging Defenses, The Long Lived People Eat Nutrient Dense Foods, Okinawan Secrets to Longevity Include Practicing Yuimaaru, Animals Know How to Live A Longer Healthy Life. But the food weight % numbers did not lie and created a very clear picture of exactly what the macronutrient distribution looks like. As Buettner writes, "The big secret of the Nicoyan diet was the 'three sisters' of Meso-American agriculture: beans, corn and squash." Those three staples, plus papayas, yams, bananas and peach. However you may visit Cookie Settings to provide a controlled consent. Generally, travelers visiting Montezuma, Malpais, or Santa Teresa will fly into the Tambor domestic airport. Kayaking, snorkeling, and sport fishing are also popular off Samara Beach due to its calm waters. This Nicoya Peninsula oceanfront yoga wellness retreat center includes all the amenities you'd want to relax. In other words, people in these zones to live longer than any other areas . No need to be a pro. Amenities Hotel amenities at The Gilded Iguana include an outdoor pool with a Jacuzzi and kid's pool, an on-site restaurant, a complimentary breakfast buffet daily, [] You can surf excellent waves at dawn, eat delicious local fruit and coffee for breakfast, and clear your mind with a meditation session in the rainforest all before lunch. Cooked maize has been found to lower cholesterol, and cooked corn and maize has a good antioxidant value. Here are the top 16 must-do highlights of the Nicoya Peninsula: 1. Although, Malpais refers to a string of beaches on the southern tip of the Nicoya Peninsula: Malpais, Carmen Beach, Santa Teresa, Hermosa Beach, and Manzanillo Beach. Generally, the Nicoya diet stays away from foods with processed sugar, cured meats like prosciutto or pepperoni, and cows milk. A hot spot for tourism, surfing and real estate the Nicoya Peninsula is home to many different opportunities. Otherwise, be prepared for a 4-hour trip from the capital city of San Joss airport. In Italy there is Sardinia. Ticoffia Coffee Tour-Sustainable Farming. (For that last one, consider trying a plant-based milk or goats milk instead!) If I can figure out how this does not produce adverse health effects somewhere along the way, I will be sure to come back and let you know. Gallo Pinto (Rice and Black Beans), Corn tortillas and Squash:The Three Sisters Native American Triad Staple. Find out more about Nicoya Costa Rica Homes for Sale with Coldwell Banker Vesta Group Dominical, your leading Costa Rica Estate Agents. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and a free beach shuttle. To thoroughly understand amounts and proportions of food in terms that we normally think about, I carefully entered all the foods in the weight percent amounts described in the books pie chart and the food descriptions provided into my nutrient analysis software. The authors of these articles, usually nonresident foreigners, describe the Nicoyans' diet as predominantly plant-based and typically state that beans, corn and exotic fruits are the reason for their longevity. It features a spacious 600 sq beachfront pool, sundeck, and a furnished covered pool lounge area. The idea that all fat and saturated fat is damaging to health must be very hard to let go of based on the subtle misleading information in the book. The fastest way to get to the Nicoya Peninsula from San Jose and Liberia is to hop on a short flight from either airport to Tambor Airport, and these flights operate several times per day and will take just 30 minutes. Obviously, whats different about it from many other food regimens is its inclusion of animal products. But opting out of some of these cookies may have an effect on your browsing experience. US Toll Free: 877-309-9238 Costa Rica Direct: +506-2787-0223 It's a question that inhabitants of Guanacaste are happy to be asking themselves, since it's a true pride for the province's population to be home to one of the five such zones that exist worldwide. These cookies will be stored in your browser only with your consent. Nicoya Peninsula Vacation Packages In Perfect Harmony 7 LIR $1000-$1500 p.p. They are made through a unique process that creates a tortilla that controls cholesterol. The remote village of Montezuma has gorgeous rainforest, waterfalls, and surrounding beaches. Nicoya Peninsula, Spanish Pennsula de Nicoya, peninsula in western Costa Rica that is bounded on the west and south by the Pacific Ocean, on the northeast by the Cordillera de Guanacaste, and on the southeast by the Gulf of Nicoya. At low tide, travelers can explore and swim in the tide pools. In addition to the generous amounts corn, rice and black beans, modest amounts of fruits, vegetables and meats, Nicoyans consume a rather generous amount of dairy, about of the total weight of their food, a little cheese and about a cup of milk a day. Katy is a freelance food, business, and travel writer currently based in Omaha, Nebraska. Part of the A360 Media Women's Service Group.Copyright A360 Media LLC 2022. The park has an extensive network of caves reaching more than 656 feet or 200 meters deep. The boho-chic beach town has been called the "Tulum of Costa Rica," and features a main street full of trendy surf and wellness shops, innovative and traditional open-air Costa Rican eateries known as "sodas," as well . The Nicoya Peninsula's sparkling, nearly 80-mile shoreline boasts beach-centric towns with cream-colored shores and dense forests. There are several websites devoted to the subject. Travelers appreciate the abundant wildlife that comes to shore and that which swims shallow and deep nearby. family are close and make everybody, including the oldest old, feel needed and loved. I am seeking meaningful and translatable information. A Moderate Protein Diet: Once again, this diet is moderate in protein, not low protein. They start their day with very strong, very sweet coffee. The Nicoya Peninsula is also known for its wildlife and natural resources. Costa Rica Experts is the leading authority on Costa Rica vacations. Spending a week there could do wonders for your mind, body, and soul! One of Nicoya's dietary secrets is their nutritious corn tortillas. The Nicoya Peninsula is a travel brochure writer's dream. All Rights Reserved. Again, surrounded by ocean. Most eat a plant-based diet, stay active physically and in their communities, and value family life. But it is truth and I wish to share the whole truth. The indigenous people of the Nicoya Peninsula are the Chorotega, and they have more in common with the Maya of Mexico and Guatemala than they do with the hill tribes of Costa Rica's mainland. Costa Rica's largest peninsula has one of the largest populations of centenarians on the planet with more residents who are over 80 than anywhere else earth.. So, whats a meat and cheese lover to do? En esta regin encontramos tambin los hoteles que estn en la Pennsula de Nicoya, para los cuales se necesita usar el ferry de Puntarenas a Paquera. This bioluminescent kayak tour is located about a half-hour from the small destination of Tambor on the southern Nicoya Peninsula. A lot of sugar! Here are nine principles Nicoyans adhere to: Have a Reason to Live: The Nicoyan elderly have a reason to live ('plan de vida') which keeps them positive, upbeat and happy. Fun Fact: Nicoya is one of the world's five "Blue Zones," an area where locals live noticeably longer and healthier lives. While the town of Nicoya is somewhat centrally located, travel times may vary depending on where your final destination is on the peninsula. If you plan to travel to the area, consider flying into the Liberia International Airport. Destinations I am grateful to Dan Buettner and National Geographic for researching and publishing their findings which has allowed me to translate the information into practical dietary changes that might just enhance your quality and quantity of life! Common veggies include tomatoes, cucumbers, plantain, yucca, squash, bell peppers, onions, and cabbage. The weather in Nicoya Peninsula is wide and varied. While not noted in the book regarding Okinawa tradition, I actually read on line that this is also used in Okinawa to prepare wheat for making into noodles. We also use third-party cookies that help us analyze and understand how you use this website. Beyond diet, other habits explain why this Costa Rican Pacific Coast peninsula is so far ahead in the longevity game. Nicoya, Costa Rica is one of those unique locations where lifestyle, diet, and low stress have dramatically bettered the lives of Ticos and expats alike. With its multiple nature preserves, quaint beach towns, and stellar surf breaks, its a popular destination for tourists from all over the world. It includes the five cantons of the Nicoya Peninsula: Hojancha, Nandayure, Carrillo, Santa Cruz and Nicoya. Have a plan de vida. The waters here are beloved for scuba diving and sportfishing, kayaking, boating, and surfing. Discover this exceptional part of the country today! Successful centenarians have a strong sense of purpose. Varieties include onions, garlic, green vegetables, bell peppers, yams, plantains, cabbage and tomatoes. The Nicoya Peninsulas water is the hardest in all of Costa Rica; that simply means it has the highest concentration of calcium. October 7, 2012. "Corn is loaded with vitamins and fiber and in Nicoya, they soak the corn to break it down." What that does, he says, is release niacin, also known as vitamin B3, which is housed inside the. Only one of the caves, Terciopelo Cave, is available to the public.Guided tours with equipment are available in the dry season from the end of November through April. . Birding in Costa Rica's Nicoya Peninsula 11 SJO More than $2000 p.p. Oceanview Lots for sale in Playa Conchal Gold Coast area of Costa Rica For sale, oceanview lots Playa Conchal in a residential community in Guanacaste, Costa Rica. Nicoya Peninsula Adventure 7 SJO More than $2000 p.p. "The Nicoya Peninsula is becoming a city." And he ensures that the ideal locations are Montezuma, Nosara, Tambor and Santa Teresa, where even the price of land, compared to the rest of the country, is relatively accessible. Second on the list is Nicoya peninsula in Costa Rica, where this 101-year-old woman hails from QTRAVEL (CNN) Going on vacation could help you uncover the secret to a long and healthy life if . They eat about 4 ounces of local fruit, including papaya, lime, orange and banana. She had a faith practice and was spiritual. From its northern base in the arid Guanacaste lowlands the peninsula extends 140 km to the south where the landscape progressively becomes more moist and hilly. In this region you will also find the hotels in the tip of the Nicoya Peninsula, that you can reach using the ferry from Puntarenas to Paquera. Curious your thoughts. Family Focus. Eat a type of milk curd called cuajada and cheese from their own organic livestock. per night. The Nicoya Peninsula of Costa Rica is one of the five areas in the world that hold the distinguished classification of a Blue Zone. Eat 1-3 pieces of fresh fruit daily, preferably fresh, ripe, and organic. It's cheaper, more convenient and familiar. The traditional diet on the Nicoya Peninsula consists of black beans, bananas, plantains, papaya, squash, pejibaje, yams, and homemade corn tortillas. Here are some of the factors that make Costa Ricas Nicoya Peninsula a blue zone worth visiting. According to the book, in addition to corn tortillas, rice and beans, about 4 ounces of low-glycemic vegetables like tomato, peppers, cabbage, carrot and onion. With over 35 years of experience, we make the difference between a good trip and a lifetime memory. Five miles north of Montezuma, its roughly a 2-hour hike on the beach to reach the waterfall. Specialists such as Luis Rosero-Bixby, who is a Costa Rican Demographer, call areas like Nicoya "blue zones" and it is one of the five in the whole world, to mention the others (Okinawa, Japan; Sardinia, Italy; Icaria Greece; Loma Linda, United States). The lifestyle here is simple, and the area is home to some of the most active, well-nourished, hard-working people on earth. Sun Costa Rica Real Estate. The Nicoya Peninsula is situated on Costa Rica 's northern Pacific Coast in the province of Guanacaste. Some of the most well-known beaches include Samara, Montezuma, Malpais, Carmen, Hermosa, and Santa Teresa. Negotiating the dirt roads can be tricky, but thats part of the fun and provides harmless yet compelling stories for those back home. This is thanks in part to the stunning natural environment around them. Nicoya is one of the five blue zones in the world. Nicoyans have lower levels of biomarkers of CV risk; they are also leaner, taller and suffer fewer disabilities. Families and communities, like those in the Nicoya Peninsula, typically eat home cooked and farm fresh meals three times a day. Barrio La California, All Rights Reserved. Our mission is to serve the 50+ traveler who's ready to cross a few items off their bucket list. Samara Beach wraps around a long horseshoe bay with calm water perfect for swimming! Out of these cookies, the cookies that are categorized as necessary are stored on your browser as they are essential for the working of basic functionalities of the website. Oct 17 - Oct 18. The "blue zone," lifestyle and diet includes eating lighter meals and nutrient-rich local fruits. The plant-based diet is so prevalent in the wellness and yoga communities that you can easily find vegan retreat centers all over the world. The Nicoya Peninsula's water is the hardest in all of Costa Rica, which means it has the highest concentration of calcium. Travelers can also hike in the nearbyCabo Blanco Nature Reserveon the southernmost tip of the Nicoya Peninsula. Getting Oriented. By clicking Sign Up, you agree to our Terms and Conditions and that you have read our Privacy Policy. The areas beautiful beaches are perfect for relaxing or enjoying water sports. Water sportsand wellnessdefine much of the character of the area.Separated from the Guanacaste plains in the north by the Gulf of Nicoya, the Nicoya Peninsula is an isolated paradise and water wonderland of eco-epic proportions. They eat a very small amount of cashews that grow regionally. Guiones Beach has one of the most dependable surf breaks and is also popular for bodyboarding.Again, the vibe here is laid-back and yoga and surfing are the sports of choice. Nicoyans are often good friends with their neighbors, which contributes to a sense of connectivity and purpose. Ostional Beach within Ostional National Wildlife Refuge is where the remarkablearribadaor mass sea turtle nesting of olive ridley sea turtles takes place. 7 Best Things to Do on the Nicoya Peninsula. Most of the various Blu e Zone residents in the world eat a primarily plant-based diet, especially legumes (all kinds of beans, peas and lentils). Nicoya Peninsula Blue Zone diet. The Nicoya Peninsula is the perfect off the beaten path escape. Nicoya is the major town of the peninsula and the cultural center of the province of Guanacaste. . $100. Hermosa Beach and Manzanillo Beach are even more less-frequented. Discover the wonders of this limestone cavern: stalactites, stalagmites, soda straws, cave grapes, and more. The Nicoyan diet contained more protein and fat and less carbs than Buettner implies. This treatment adds an enormous amount of calcium, breaks down some proteins to more absorbable forms and makes minerals more bioavailable. 1. Join 10k+ in receiving Expert travel advice, news & promotions! Food is not the only reason that people in Blue Zones live long, healthy lives. Can their diet be described as plant-based ? The vibe here is laid back and the goal is relaxation. The times of the arribada are a bit difficult to predict so there are not regularly scheduled tours, but dont forget to ask your hotel if an arribada is happening if youre staying in the area! I am attempting to understand how to eat to increase my odds of living a long, robust life to 100 and perhaps beyond. Eat a plant-based diet whose mainstays are corn tortillas, beans, and rice, all from locally-grown organic produce. It's 100% natural, gluten-free, and GMO-free. Men over the age of 60 are seven times more likely to reach the 100-year mark than the global average. The following table compares their consumption to the US and other Blue Zones I have discussed so far. Besides the calcium-rich water, those living on the Nicoya Peninsula enjoy a number of other health benefits. This translates to fewer hip fractures that could otherwise be devastating for an elderly population. But perhaps the most enchanting thing about this serene and beautiful spot is that its a so-called blue zone. This particular vitamin is what helps regulate the levels of cholesterol. The sparkling bays and tranquil beach resorts of the Nicoya peninsula spread along the northern Pacific coast, separated from the rest of the country by the Gulf of Nicoya and the arid Guanacaste province. This peculiar process helps release a Vitamin B called Niacin. In fact, this area of the Pacific coastline is home to some of the best surfing in the . Drink water which is exceptionally high in calcium due to having permeated limestone (calcium carbonate) bedrock; it also contains magnesium which is required to get calcium into the bones. Many visitors in Nicoya enjoy leisure, surfing, observing the turtles nesting, nature hiking and many other activities. Maintaining a healthy calcium intake is linked to proper function of nerves, heart, and muscles as well as overall bone health. Include beans, preferably organic and soaked overnight (although tinned beans can be useful when time is short), as they are an excellent source of protein, B vitamins, and fiber. San Jose, Costa Rica 10104. The Nicoya Peninsula is roughly 37 miles (60 km) wide and 75 miles (121 km) long, located on the Pacific Coast.Divided into the Guanacaste and Puntarenas provinces, it's a popular destination for surfing, jungle treks, and laid-back beach towns. Celebrity Chef Virginia Willis Shares Her Delicious Tips for Weight Loss, Does a Vegetarian Diet Increase Hip Fracture Risk? Another reason the residents of the Nicoya Peninsula live so long is that they are physically active throughout their lives. They also benefit from a healthy diet of natural unprocessed foods and . Santa Teresa is a remote but increasingly popular beach town on the western coast of the Nicoya Peninsula. The majority of Nicoyans make their living by farming and raising cattle. Researchers have identified a group of villages on the peninsula (an 80-mile long finger of land on the Pacific Coast) with a significantly higher rate of longevity than the rest of Costa Ricaand the world . What sets the Nicoya diet apart from other popular longevity diets is that while it includes many fruits, veggies, and whole grains, it doesnt eschew meat entirely or request that its only eaten in extreme moderation. What do people eat in the Blue Zones? As well as being a classic tropical paradise, with large expanses of yellow-white sand edged by palm trees and forest that hums . The Chorotegan maize diet (originally derived from the Maya) is thought to promote longevity, and if you make it to 60 years old here, then you are more . Go surfing on Playa Tamarindo. Its also common in the region for many generations to live under the same roof, which means familial ties are robust. Luckily, theres a longevity diet out there that can not only help you stay healthy but also doesnt make you give up your favorite food groups. Another factor contributing to the long lives in Nicoya is a plan de vida. The Nicoya Peninsula is one of five of the worlds Blue Zones, an area where locals live measurably longer and healthier lives. 2.400 - 6.500 m. The warm weather in the region means that Costa Ricans can work outside almost any day of the year.