Costa Rican Couture

 Over Spring Break, I went to Costa Rica and volunteered at a turtle conservation called La Tortuga Feliz (an amazing non-profit organization). I spent a week protecting the habitat and eggs of Leatherback turtles, which included patrolling the beach from 12am-4am and working in the hatchery by day. It was an incredible experience and I am so grateful that I did it. While I kept my outfits pretty basic-- I mean, I was staying in the rain forest-- I still tried to incorporate my style into my comfortable, sporty look. The first step is having the perfect bathing suit.

This hot pink fringe bikini is actually Guess brand, and it came from TJ Maxx for around $30 for both pieces! It was perfect for the light and fun atmosphere of the beach. 

Unfortunately, I was not privy to a mirror or electricity and therefore didn't wear makeup for a week... Nonetheless, this flowy beach dress/cover-up came from T.J. Maxx for only $9.99! 

 Once my volunteer period was over, I had a couple days to explore and see what wonders Costa Rica has to offer (and there are many!). On one excursion, I toured a coffee plantation, the Poás Volcano, and a national park, complete with several beautiful waterfalls. 

Fortunately, I was able to stay in a hotel with electricity, mirrors, and hot water (luxuries compared to the lifestyle at the conservation) and therefore was able to properly groom and polish myself. I kept the casual look by combining a pair of jean shorts with a cute graphic muscle tee from Brandy Melville ($19!). The aviator sunglasses were a steal from Charlotte Rouse for only $5, and the satchel is from Target. 

I was able to enjoy the breath-taking sights, and really learned to appreciate the beauty of the natural world.

....I also made a few friends along the way!

Lastly...... My best advice is to NEVER pass up the opportunity for a new adventure!

"Do something every day that scares you."

I bungee jumped from the tallest jump in Central America, and one of the top ten highest in the world, free-falling for a treacherous 262 ft. The worker there said that Steve-O (Jackass) did this jump once, but couldn't jump by himself and had to be thrown off the bridge.... and I did it TWICE!

The price included one jump and a video, but after jumping the first time I learned, to my dismay, that they were unable to capture my video. They then told me I could do a second jump, for FREE, if I wanted a video. Naturally, I prepared to jump again.

Overall this was an amazing experience and I don't regret a single moment of it, despite the tiring work I endured. And I did it by myself. It is my sincere belief that a person should not hold themselves back just because they are not accompanied by their friends. I am going to do what I want, even if it means doing it alone. That way, I'll never miss out on life. It has paid off for me thus far.

If you would like information on the turtle conservation program I volunteered with, their Facebook page is https://www.facebook.com/latortugafeliz

The owner is so dedicated and it was truly a pleasure to get to know him and hear his story. Here is some additional information: