This is the mark of a successful trip. Photo: Trevor Murphy
My friend Allie and I recently traveled to Costa in search of some sun, waves, and memories, which was the perfect way to begin 2014. Prior to this trip, we had both traveled before, though never alone or without the boys. Traveling and staying in a hostel allows for plenty of learning and growth. These seven tips will help any surfer girl in search of the perfect hostel experience.
1. Packing Essentials
- Endless amounts of sunscreen (SPF 15, 30, 50, and a thick stick for your face)
- Tropical surf wax (tends to be cheaper to bring than buy)
- Aloe for sunburns
- “After bite” for bug bites
- A refillable water bottle preferably with a purifier. This will save you tons of money.
- Snowboard goggles if you plan on renting a quad. Your eyes will thank you forever.
- Shampoo/conditioner/soap for hostel shower
- Two to three towels per person. When one is drying, you’ll have a clean towel ready to go. This will also help with getting changed since you will be sharing a room with multiple people.
2. Get to Know Strangers/The Owners
- You never know who you could meet.
- Allie and I met people from all around the world. Now, if we wanted to make our next trip to Sweden, Argentina, London, etc., we would have a place to stay.
- Meeting people provides perspective on life. It shows you that everyone is on a different path and that you can actually carve your own and it’s not terribly difficult to do so.
- Get to know the owners because they know everything you need in order to have the best trip. They can direct you to the best surf, food, rentals and nightlife. It can also become a place you return to in the future.
3. Lock It Up!
- Lock up everything you have when you are not bringing it with you.
- Most hostels with provide safe boxes and locks so that you can put your possessions in them.
- I recommend not bringing much to the beach while you are surfing. Possibly just a cheap pair of flip flops that you won’t miss.
4. Surf Etiquette
- The water is more than likely going to be warm; however, bring a tee or rashguard for early morning sessions as it can be a little chilly.
- Do not leave anything on the beach. Ever. It will more than likely get stolen. Find an arched palm tree on a path to the beach and hide your flip flops under some leaves and dirt so you don’t have to go barefoot to the beach.
- Always try to get an early morning session in to make the most of the day and conditions. Wake up at 5:15am and be in the water by 5:30. In most places we experienced, crowds do not come until about 7am.
- Sunset sessions are breathtaking. Being on the ocean while the sun disappears into the water is a pretty incredible experience. Be prepared for a dark walk back to the hostel, and make sure to stick with a friend.
- Mid-day sessions can be equally fun, but make sure you smother sunscreen everywhere. Especially your face and back. A bad sunburn can ruin your trip.
- Be friendly in the water and practice aloha.
5. Stop, Yoga Time
Yoga is the perfect way to step back and take a breath. If you are surfing two or three times a day for an extended period of time, your body will need a break. Yoga helps with balance, stress, and is a great form of meditation.
6. Drink lots of Water and Eat Awesome Food
- Drink water non-stop. You will be dehydrated much faster than at home, especially if you’re in the salt water for long–which you should be.
- Eat out at recommended places. Make sure to try the local fare. Smoothies are always made with fresh fruit and the base is water instead of milk.
- Do not be afraid to use the community kitchen provided at the hostel. It is easy to get great fish for cheap and it is a great way to save money while traveling.
7. Capture but Enjoy
Taking pictures is good and well and they are fun to have for memories, but remember to put the camera down and live in the moment. Take in the culture around you and enjoy.
If you follow these seven simple travel tips, you are sure to have the ideal hostel experience. Safe travels and pura vida!
