I’m Jennifer Martin, 29. I stayed in a Modern Airbnb Vacation Apartment in Jaco Beach and let the town set the tempo: coffee, sand, repeat.

Four things shaped the week: Took a Surfing Lesson at the Jaco Surf School, Miro Mountain Hike, Koko Gastro Pub, and an hour of happy people-watching at Jaco Walk Open Air Shops. Everyone was surprisingly generous with tips and time.

I wandered Playa Hermosa and Herradura, then hopped south to Bejuco for quiet. Taxis and Ubers were quick; the bus was simple and safe. I felt taken care of without being managed.

A vendor taught me to say “pura vida” with the right smile. It worked everywhere.

Nights were a mix—music, a tiny flutter of casino luck, and slow walks under warm air.

Jaco feels like confidence training for joy. I’ll be back for a longer stretch.