- Program
- Pura Vida Service, Costa Rica
- Traveled
- July 2026
- Hometown
- Lakeville, Connecticut
In this first-person account, Carmela Egan of Lakeville, Connecticut, looks back on Rustic Pathways’ Pura Vida Service program in Costa Rica in July 2026, with photos from the trip.
Carmela describes a changed perspective on everyday resources, a group of strangers who became like a family in a week, and the smiles and hugs of kids at a school visit.
Carmela’s Eye-Opening Pura Vida Service Trip in Costa Rica
Hi, I’m Carmela, and I did the Pura Vida Service trip in Costa Rica. This was such an unforgettable experience that created lifelong memories. It was so eye opening seeing how we take so much for granted- even simple things, such as wasting food or leaving your light on. These few things definitely changed my perspective on the privileges we all have in America and will definitely change the way I value my resources when I’m home.
A Group of Strangers That Became Like a Family
What especially made my trip memorable was the group! I came into the trip without knowing anyone, and even though we were only together for a week, we all got so close so quickly and really do feel like a family.
Smiles at the School Made the Mud and Rain Worth It
The smile on the kids’ faces when visiting the school is what made me feel like I truly made an impact. Their excitement and hugs made every minute in the mud and rain immediately worth it.
Carmela describes a new view of everyday resources and a group that feels like family. The memories concern the July 2026 session, and Carmela first shared them on the Rustic Pathways Instagram account on July 30, 2026.
The program still runs as Costa Rica: Pura Vida Service. It runs 8 days for students ages 14–18 and includes about 16 hours of community service near Arenal Volcano, helping improve local schools and maintain park trails. See the program page for the current itinerary, dates and activities.
