I’m Linda Rodriguez, 27, and Jaco became my yes-week. I stayed in a Central Jaco Airbnb Vacation Rental near everything that matters: sand, snacks, and sunsets.

I moved through: Ziplining through Rainforest, Visited Nauyaca Waterfalls, Koko Gastro Pub for a late dinner, and Orange Pub for Dancing to finish. Everyone seemed sincerely happy that I was visiting.

Between outings I walked the beachfront path, then hopped to Herradura and Playa Hermosa. Taxis and Ubers made changes of plan painless; the bus worked when I felt like riding with locals. It felt safe to wander and linger.

A shopkeeper taught me the real cadence of “pura vida,” and I tried to carry it the rest of the week.

Nightlife was a breeze—music, casinos, laughter that seemed to spill down the street. I liked how easy it was to step in and step out.

Jaco gave me energy back. I’m leaving with a playlist and a suntan I plan to protect.