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

What is Playa Hermosa Guanacaste Costa Rica?

Playa Hermosa is part of a group of beaches known as the Papagayo; Playas del Coco, Playa Hermosa, Playa Panama and Ocotal. Located just 20 minutes from the Liberia International Airport (LIR) it is considered by many to be the most beautiful beach on the Pacific Coast. After all, Playa Hermosa means, BEAUTIFUL BEACH in Spanish, and it definitely lives up to its name.  When I first came to Costa Rica in the year 2000, I spent a month traveling this entire country. I saw literally, every single beach community on the Pacific coast. When I landed in Playa Hermosa, I knew I needed to look no further. It was everything I had imagined and more. I had this vision of Jimmy Buffett, in a hammock, with a cocktail in my hand, watching the sunset, and this was the perfect spot to fulfill that dream. Most of the beaches in Costa Rica are wild, surfing beaches, with huge waves and strong undertow. It is very dangerous to go in the water, as the currents can be violent and aggressive. Not Playa Hermosa. Frommer’s travel guide ranks it as one of the best swimming beaches in the country making it a great place for families and older retirees as well.  You don’t have to worry about a rogue wave, slamming you to the sand, face planting you down and then sucking you back out to sea. Small children frolic in the surf, with no concerns for their safety.