You can drive to Tamarindo in about 80 minutes from the Liberia airport (its about four hours from Costa Ricas other main airport in the capital, San Jos). Nicoyans eat a light dinner early in the evening. I mean, how can you not be happy when the average daily temperature is 85 degrees fahrenheit, you can easily get to the beach or jungle, and youre surrounded by an abundance of nature and wildlife? The Nicoya Peninsula of Costa Rica is one of the five areas in the world that hold the distinguished classification of a Blue Zone. Moderate alcohol intake, especially wine. The forest here is more tropical than further north and is home to deer, pacas, monkeys, armadillos, laughing gulls, pelicans, frigates, and brown boobies. Famous for its gorgeous Pacific Coast beaches and well known for its surfing, wellness, yoga, and vibrant sunsets, the Nicoya peninsula is a paradise for the mind, body, and soul. The term "Blue Zone" was first used in a 2005 National Geographic cover story entitled "The Secret of Long Life" written by a man named Dan Buettner. There are two trails for visitors and a pristine white sand beach. It was a spontaneous decision to move here, but it was the best decision! Barra Honda is on the peninsulas northeast about a half hours drive from the town of Nicoya. But other factors are at play, especially in Nicoya, an 80-mile peninsula just south of the Nicaraguan border. 4. American researcher, Dan Buettner, discovered that people in these areas shared several lifestyle characteristics: They don't smoke; They eat a plant-based diet I feel lucky to have found this information, though the credit doesn't belong to me, but rather to the older residents. Physical activity, diet, good mineral-rich water, friends, a satisfying job, eating light in the evening, and a "plan de vida" are the other aspects. Rice and black beans, gallo pinto, served with eggs and tropical fruit. Costa Rica as a whole is a happy place. While walking gives Nicoyans a chance to exercise and get fresh air, it also gives them time to enjoy the natural beauty for which Nicoya is known. According to the most recent data from the Ministry of Health, this region will be painted blue for many years to come, as over 900 people over 90 have been recorded, along with over 5,000 inhabitants over 75, the majority of whom enjoy good health in their old age. Even the cancer rates on the Nicoya Peninsula are lower than those elsewhere in the world! 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 geographical areas are considered special, because most people live at least 90 and often over 100 years of age. Nicoyans often live more than 100 years and Nicoya boasts of the highest number of centenarians in the world. Now I was excited to roam off the beaten path into a world-famous Nicoya Peninsula blue zone. The international attendees also included Dan Buettner, a reporter and researcher for National Geographic, who has been responsible for popularizing the concept of Blue Zones through the publication of various articles and best-selling books that explore the direct connection between this issue and diet, spirituality, purpose in life and physical exercise, with happiness as a cross-cutting element. LIKED THIS? Go to a soda, thats the name of a small, local caf, and look for casado this popular dish is rice and beans served with vegetables and either fish or meat. One of the five designated blue zones in the world, the Nicoya Peninsula in Costa Rica features residents who live even longer than those in the rest of the country. Without a doubt, this is a challenge for the next generations, in the context of the world's age pyramid turning upside down, with ever more senior citizens. If you want to really embrace the Nicoya Peninsula blue zone vibe, head to any small village in the area. As of now, there are 5 blue zones: Icaria, Greece. The most southerly point is Cabo Blanco Reserve and the south coast also has the town of Tambor. We are always happy to help you out! Your email address will not be published. This has paid off, with Costa Rica frequently scoring high in world happiness and environmental rankings. According to researchers, most inhabitants live to at least the age of 90. Where are the world's Blue Zones located? 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. In mid-November 2017, the first World Meeting of Blue Zones was held. Join our newsletter for exclusive features, tips, giveaways! San Jose, Costa Rica 10104. They are joined by 42 other centenarians in the Nicoya Peninsula, located in the 5 blue cantons: Nicoya, Santa Cruz, Hojancha, Nandayure and Carrillo (according to data from Jorge Vindas, a field researcher for the Nicoya Peninsula Blue Zone Association). When you book through our trusted partners we earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. But we must also consider the impact of our individual health and lifestyle choices on future generations. Almost 40 percent of the residents of the Nicoya Peninsula (about 5,000 of the population of 132,000) are over the age of 75, more than 900 are over the age of 90, and many are over 100. It is not unusual for many generations to live on one property or in very close proximity to each other. Nicoya was introduced as a Blue Zone in a 2004 National Geographic article by Dan Buettner. He added that "we must somehow emulate, duplicate or copy the lifestyle of centenarians, and their way of living, but above all, their environment, diet, activity; above all, the connections they make, human connections, not technological ones. These include Okinawa, Japan; Sardinia, Italy; Loma Linda, California; Ikaria, Greece, and you guessed it; Nicoya, Costa Rica. The surroundings dictate ways of operating, not personal decisions. They embrace the relaxed Pura Vida lifestyle and family always comes first. That's why this part of Costa Rica is designated a Blue Zone, the term used for just five areas of the world where people live extraordinarily long and vibrant lives. Nantipa means blue in the language of the Chorotega people, some of the first known people to live in the Nicoya region. Along with starting every morning with a healthy breakfast, Nicoyans also eat nutritious food throughout the day. This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged. Although the Blue Zone Project isnt all about diet, and its certainly about more than food for the people of Nicoya it is a big difference from the typical American diet (no matter what type of community). Costa Rica is known for its pura vida lifestyle and attitude. A nine-hole golf course is a mile away. All Rights Reserved. It is a template outlining the lifestyles of people who live in places like Nicoya, Costa Rica. Blue Zones: Lessons For Living Longer From The People Whove Lived The Longest. These include Nicoya, Costa Rica; Loma Linda, California; Ikaria, Greece . Nicoyan water has the countrys highest calcium content, perhaps explaining the lower rates of heart disease, as well as stronger bones and fewer hip fractures. We know we should include exercise into all parts of our lives (not just an hour at the gym). Do you ever wish you could know the secrets to a long and happy life? This category only includes cookies that ensures basic functionalities and security features of the website. Who knows, maybe it will change your life! Blue zones are regions where some of the oldest and healthiest people live. Brand Storytelling At Sundance: Championing Excellence And Filmmakers With Purpose, Profitable ECommerce Growth For CPGs Is In Reach. Just so you know, Matador may collect a small commission from the links on this page if you decide to book a stay. Lane reasons why Chicago should use the Blue Zones template to improve the lives of people who live there. Gone are the days of making your own food and growing organic produce. The Nicoya Peninsula has several on offer, including near Tamarindo, outside the Cabo Blanco Reserve near Playa Mal Pais, and above the Montezuma waterfall. If you would like to be near things but get a bit more of a feel for traditional Nicoya life while also enjoying a bit of the touristy perks (surfing, fun restaurants etc.) They are places where people get around by walking more than by car, they eat more plants than meat, and a diet that includes beans or grains such as corn, where the family is their number one purpose. Learn more about typical diet with our Guide to Costa Rican Food. A blue zone is a geographical area in which the population is the longest-lived. Staples of the traditional Nicoya diet include homemade corn tortillas, black beans, white rice, a variety of squash, yams, papaya, bananas, and pejibayes. Is the Nicoya Peninsula good for a Wellness getaway? Costa Rica Experts Wins 2022 Tripadvisor Travelers Choice Award, Where to Find Black Sand Beaches in Costa Rica, Best Time to Visit Costa Rica: What to Expect Month by Month, 11 Travel Mistakes To Avoid Before Your Trip, 8 Costa Rica Natural Mysteries You Have to See to Believe, 5 Common Misconceptions About Travel in Costa Rica, 10 Top Costa Rica Honeymoon Bungalows & Suites, 3 Costa Rica Hotels Made The Travel & Leisure Top 100 in the World List, Costa Rica Expert Interview with Aaron Daker: top destinations, new hotels, & best months to travel. Meanwhile, last year the average individual from the United States ate 222.2 pounds of meat and poultry. Scarlet macaws are bred in Tambor and youll have a chance of seeing them, even on the beach. One of the world's Blue Zones is in Nicoya, Costa Rica. Lane cites the impact of COVID-19 on minorities like Blacks and Hispanics throughout Chicago. So, having extra-hard water may help keep Nicoyans' hearts strong, and longer. The Power of Nine is the name Buetnner has given to the characteristics that all Blue Zones seem to share. The Today Show's Cynthia McFadden accompanied Blue Zones founder Dan Buettner to Costa Rica and Singapore to learn why they these two different places have such happy residents. Longevity then would not be a luxury only reserved for a few living in Blue Zones, but a reality for billions.. Are you interested in learning more about the Costa Rica Blue Zone and other zones of the world? March 2nd, 2023. None of these staples are processed, and because all of these foods are locally grown they are not faced with genetically modified or pesticide laden produce. The five blue zones are: Loma Linda, California; Sardinia, Italy; Okinawa, Japan; Ikaria, Greece; and the Nicoya Peninsula in Costa Rica. Poor communities are notorious for living in food deserts. Customer Experience Critical To Consumer Preference: IAAPA CEO Comments On Key Trends, When It Comes To Advertising, Multicultural Representation Is Not Enough. Pablo Jenkins, a regenerative investor and futurist explains that it is a great time to take on that wisdom from the local ancestors and combine it with new regenerative ways of living. In other words, it lives longer than the average global life expectancy. They eat many fruits and vegetables often grown on their own lands, and they tend not to consume much meat. Throughout the world, the average life expectancy is 71 years of age (70 for males and 72 for females). Of course, there is still a desire for success (especially in the cities) but in general, the priorities are shifted. For many the hope is that the lessons that these centenarians can teach us and the secrets of well-being and longevity that live in this extraordinary part of the world, will be able benefit all of humanity in the future. Down on the Nicoya Peninsula in Costa Rica's Blue Zone, visitors can book into a yoga retreat, eat freshly caught fish, go surfing and ride horses along the beach. Swimming holes dot the peninsula too, including beneath the Montezuma waterfall. When Dan Buettner introduced the concept of Blue Zones, he formed the Blue Zones Project. Water sports are on offer pretty much everywhere along Nicoyas coast, whether you prefer surfing, kayaking, standup paddleboarding, snorkeling, scuba diving, or just checking out whats happening in the tide pools. O que so Zonas Azuis? Ministry of Health data indicate that life expectancy is nearly 80 years, which is the highest in Central America, according to the World Bank. This Central American nation isn't that far from the U.S. geographically, but it is way ahead of us in longevity. I will be visiting Costa Rica next week to meet with Jorge who founded a local organization that helps the small Blue Zone villages. The volcanic beach has calm swimming in Bahia Ballena (despite the name, whales are no longer frequent visitors), and theres birdwatching and hiking along the Rio Panica. The Peninsula is covered by spectacular beaches that host nature's best. For just over 15 years he has been monitoring and accompanying the long-lived people that . This treasure includes the atmosphere around you." On today's podcast, Gina does some serious myth-busting about what has kept the centenarians so well, for so long. These factors are present, to some degree, in the other four Blue Zones in the world, according to world experts who participated in the World Meeting in Nicoya in mid-November. Within Nosaras lush forest and a three-minute walk to Guiones Beach, this small hotel has a daily yoga class plus private yoga instruction, surf lessons, a large pool, hammocks, and a juice and coffee bar. This has paid off, with Costa Rica frequently scoring high in world happiness and environmental rankings. Guest Writer for Wake Up World. Buettner had spent several years before penning the article leading expeditions including tracing Darwin's route in the Galapagos and Marco Polo's trip along the Silk Road. In the south between the Paquera ferry and the village of Tambor, youll have an excellent chance of seeing wildlife within the privately-owned Cur Wildlife Reserve. It helps them remain positive. El propsito de la compaa es promover y crear conciencia sobre el consumo de productos de alta calidad, con valor nutricional y . Blue Zones, those special places on earth where people live longer and healthier lives, first came to prominence in the ground-breaking book by Dan Buettner, Blue Zones. Fish is a lean protein and provides oils which help with overall brain function. And now, it's a well-known fact: Costa Rica's Nicoya Peninsula, dubbed as a "high-longevity island," is one of the world's rare blue zones - one of only five original regions, joined by Icaria (Greece), Okinawa (Japan), Lima Linda (California, USA), and Sardinia (Italy). The world has a number of Blue Zones, areas where the locals live healthier and longer lives. Add the red onions, sliced radishes, tomatoes, orange supremes, cilantro and 3 tablespoons oil to the cabbage. This provides the nutrition they need to work hard during the day. The reason why they are called "blue zones" is a curious story At the southern tip of the peninsula is Cabo Blanco Nature Reserve. They feel needed, and their daily lives revolve around their family and community. He has written numerous books on the topic, but I suggest starting with: Blue Zones of Happiness and The Blue Zones Kitchen (a cookbook). Necessary cookies are absolutely essential for the website to function properly. Also on offer are boat trips to the volcanic Tortuga Islands, where snorkelers might spot angelfish and porcupine fish, and theres a chance of seeing dolphins, manta and spotted eagle rays, and turtles on the way. People from Nicoya enjoy an ample dose of Vitamin D. They spend most of their time outside tending to the land and enjoy a healthy relationship with surrounding nature. These cookies will be stored in your browser only with your consent. Personally, I find that a combination of a healthy diet, exercise, and social contact all help lower my stress; which is crucial in a long life span. Do you have any questions about the Costa Rica Blue Zone? This is a BETA experience. So why is it that the people of Nicoya outlive so many others? Required fields are marked *, car rental deal! The people of Nicoya value their families a lot, and you can often see them joking with their neighbors, working hard for long hours, and enjoying the sunshine. It's also one of the happiest places in Central America: Costa Ricans report a high level of life satisfaction and the country has the highest literacy rate in Latin America. Youre sure to be on the path to a long and healthy life after the four-handed Abundance Treatment, which combines Reiki, Shiatsu, Swedish massage, sound and aromatherapy, and acupressure. Offering barefoot luxury on Playa Langosta this family-owned boutique hotel is a 15-minute walk from downtown Tamarindo. I also suggest watching his TED Talk. In these areas people have low rates of chronic diseases, so they tend to live longer than in other places. Not long after, he began to lead trips to the first Blue Zones that he had discovered. Technology permeates everyday life and Nicoya is the perfect place to go for a digital detox. They have been able to exceed their life expectancy and serve as an example for the entire world. A Blue Zone is the name given to one of the areas in the world where a majority of people have a life expectancy of at least 100 years old. We can no longer afford to allow the COVID pandemic to cause us to live in or out of a place of fear. This website uses cookies to improve your experience while you navigate through the website. The traditional diet in the area is also notable. The world has 5 recognized Blue Zones (as determined by the authority of National Geographic ). Demographers have identified the area, located on Costa Rica's northern Pacific coast, as a Blue Zone or "longevity hot spot," typified by a higher-than-normal number of people living past the age of one hundred. Why Nicoya is Considered One of the Anti-Aging Zones in the World Few really know what aging is and how it can be controlled, here experts from Costa Rica and around the world talk about it and define the Nicoya Peninsula as one of those with the most long-lived people. Adapting our lifestyles wherever we live to healthier practices such as intermittent fasting, walkability, exploring plant-based gastronomy, and low glycemic index food intake sound like your everyday doctors recipe for a healthy life, says Cedeno-Molinari.