After surviving two major fires in Malibu, one month apart, my smoke-damaged lungs and broken heart were in need of major repair. The grief and lack of sleep were breaking me down. Never had I spiraled into such a state of sadness and depression since 9/11, when I was living in Washington, DC. Our Malibu bungalow in the burn zone was standing but unliveable. After hotel-hopping for two weeks, my spirits felt defeated. Costa Rica was the ‘pura vida’ we needed, to get away and detach from life’s chaos. The warm fresh air felt intoxicating, like I should drink it in. I finally felt safe.

To read more, learn about Rio Perdido & Thermal River (dry tropical forest) and Tabacan Thermal Resort & Spa (rainforest) in our article Find Peace and Gratitude in the Forests of Costa Rica on JohnnyJet.com and MSN.com, first published on March 25, 2025.