When you picture an ideal neighbourhood, what comes to mind? In many parts of the world, it might mean well-maintained lawns, quiet streets, or maybe even the convenience of nearby amenities. But in the Costa Rican countryside, especially in small villages like La Flor, the definition of a good neighbourhood is shaped by something far richer: a sense of community. Here, neighbours don’t just live side by side but are part of each other’s lives in a meaningful way. Life in La Flor embodies the pura vida spirit, where relationships, hospitality, and cooperation are the heart and soul of daily life.
One of the most endearing aspects of living in a village like La Flor is the culture of stopping by unannounced for a chat. In many parts of the world, people set appointments, check calendars, and clear schedules to meet a friend. In La Flor, things work a bit differently. You might be tending your garden, or enjoying a cup of coffee, when suddenly a neighbor walks by, waves, and before you know it, they’re sitting down for a casual chat. No phone call needed, no need to dress up or tidy the house - it’s all part of the charm. These spontaneous visits build connections, creating a space where stories are shared and advice is given.
In La Flor, sharing goes far beyond conversation. Neighbours often trade seeds, vegetables, and even ideas. It’s common to be offered a handful of tomatoes, a bunch of bananas, or a freshly harvested yucca root by your neighbour – or likewise, be the one offering. But it's not just about trading; gifting is a fundamental part of the culture as well. People often give seeds or plants without expecting anything in return, simply as a gesture of goodwill. This gifting culture fosters a deeper sense of community and mutual support. One farm might have a thriving garden of tomatoes, while another has an abundance of spinach, so why not trade or simply gift what you have in abundance? It’s an old-school form of both barter and generosity that strengthens the community, while also supporting sustainable, healthy living.
But it’s not just physical goods that get exchanged. In La Flor, ideas and knowledge flow just as freely. Maybe someone has figured out a more effective way to compost kitchen scraps or learned a traditional recipe that can turn plantains into something extraordinary. These tips are shared as naturally as the weather forecast. The spirit of collaboration and generosity ensures that everyone benefits from each other’s successes.
One thing that immediately stands out when you live in a place like La Flor is how connected everyone is. It’s not just that people say “hi” when passing each other on the street - though they certainly do - it’s that most people know each other, or at least know of each other. La Flor is the kind of place where a walk down the road turns into a series of greetings, waves, and brief check-ins. Passing someone without acknowledging them would feel strange here. There’s an unwritten rule that if you see someone, you greet them. Even if it’s just a nod, a smile, or a simple "Buenos días," these small moments of connection reinforce the sense of community.
In today’s world, it’s easy to get caught up in the hustle, focused on individual achievement and personal space. But places like La Flor remind us of the beauty and importance of a good neighbourhood community. It’s a way of life that teaches us all the value of connection, cooperation, and simply taking the time to say “hi.” In La Flor, the community is not just a backdrop for daily life - it is daily life. And in a world that sometimes feels disconnected, that’s something to treasure.
By Alberte Bech Elholm
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