My first holiday season in Costa Rica was a world apart from the chilly, foggy winters of Northern California. By that time, I’d been living here for about seven months. And while it was over 12 years ago, I still so clearly remember several things about my first holiday season here.

While we didn’t have snow where I lived in California, there was always a crisp, cold bite in the air. Costa Rica was a complete contrast – December, especially in Tamarindo where I spent my first year, was all about sandals, sundresses, and warm sunshine. Instead of the sound of rain falling and frost-covered mornings, I was greeted by the howl of monkeys and the cheerful sounds of tropical birds.

I remember my Tic@ friends telling me about the traditions they had for the season, specifically… grapes and apples – ordinary fruits I’d grown up with – were celebrated here as special treats for the holidays.

Historically, these two (mostly) imported fruits were reserved for Christmastime. Today, while they’re readily available almost everywhere, they’re still very expensive making it cost-prohibitive for many people to buy regularly. For an expat, you can compare it to trying to buy a mango in your hometown… probably pricey and perhaps not an everyday purchase but something you buy for a special treat.

And then there was the molasses. During the dry season, the town would spread molasses on the dirt roads to keep the dust down. It wasn’t tied to holiday celebrations, but for me, that earthy, sweet scent became inseparable from the season—a sensory reminder of my first holiday in my new home.

And last but not least, I remember the pomegranate martinis that were made at a holiday dinner with my new friends. I grew up with a large pomegranate tree outside my bedroom window and pomegranates are often hard to find here so it was a special treat to have (even though drinking hard alcohol is super rare for me!).

It was so different from the winters I’d known before, but it showed me how special it is to discover new traditions, climates, and rhythms of life. That first holiday season reminded me that home isn’t just where you’re from… it’s where you choose to put down roots, grow and celebrate.

When you make the move to Costa Rica, how do you imagine celebrating your first holiday season here? I’d love to hear what traditions you’re excited to bring with you, and how you’re looking forward to trying something new!

Wishing you a beautiful holiday season and new year!

– Chrissy