Costa Rica expats and the history of Gitingas Bags

We wanted to tell the story of two friends of ours–Costa Rica expats–who have found their passion and purpose in our little slice of Paradise.  Lisa Martin and Rhonda Cardella come from different backgrounds and parts of the United States but discovered a common ground in Costa Rica and have created Gitingas Beach Bags.  Gitingas was formed as a fusion  of Lisa’s sewing knowledge and Rhonda’s Art Skill.

Their full line of Beach Bags, Hand Bags and Accessories are made of durable materials made to stand up to the sun and sand of Costa Rica’s Beaches and adventures.  Each Bag is adorned with Rhonda’s unique art or with flora and fauna typical of the Guanacaste Region and are designed by Lisa to last.  You can find their Bags at various shops around town as well as on their website gitingashandbags.com

Check out the video where Rhonda and Lisa explain how Gitingas was started in Costa Rica from scratch

Tank Tops Flip Flops Newsletter edition no. 107

It’s a dog’s Life in Costa Rica.  

Many years ago, when I lived in California, I had a Black Labrador. What an incredible animal. She was with me every day, and went everywhere: from my office, to the beach. I owned a boat, and used to spend my weekends racing across Lake Havasu Arizona like a madman. She would stand on the front of the bow, life preserver on, barking constantly at the passing vessels. She could smell water, miles before we got there, and would stay in the lake swimming the entire day. If she saw a sprinkler, she would roll in the puddle; when I bought a house with a pool, she would be in it morning till night; when we went to the beach, she was out of control; this dog loved to be wet. She could play Frisbee catch for HOURS and never tire, and was a watchful eye in my stereo store years later in Texas, guarding the shelves, motivating the sales crew. I even took her on some dates. I had decided to name my dog Chief, before I found her, assuming I would have a male. But as always happens in my life, my dogs find me. She was the only one in the pack of puppies, who refused to take her eye off her future dad. “You and me; we’re outta here!” So I changed her name to Lady Chief Beaver; cut me some slack; I was 23 years old; if you knew me then; you would understand LOL.