Lost and Found in Translation: The Art of Costa Rican Directions

In a world where GPS reigns supreme, Costa Rica stands out with its charmingly unique approach to giving directions, a method so intriguing that The New Yorker dedicated a documentary to it. This delightful film unravels the often-humorous and always fascinating world of Costa Rican navigation, where “del antiguo higuerón” (by the old fig tree) is a commonplace direction and landmarks reign over street names.

The Costa Rican Compass: Landmarks Over Latitude

In Costa Rica, the art of giving directions is akin to storytelling. Forget about street numbers or GPS coordinates; here, it’s all about the landmarks. As the documentary reveals, Ticos navigate through stories and memories, using notable points like the famed “antiguo higuerón” tree in San Pedro. This method, while potentially baffling for outsiders, is ingrained in the culture and hearts of the locals.

Directions as a Tapestry of Time and Place

What makes Costa Rican directions truly unique is their blend of space and time. As highlighted in the film, directions in Costa Rica often refer to things that no longer exist, yet their memory lingers on. This approach not only guides one through the physical landscape but also through the rich tapestry of the country’s history and community life.

A Community Woven into the Fabric of Directions

In Costa Rica, giving directions is more than a mere navigational aid; it’s a testament to the sense of community. Referencing a “pulperia” (small grocery store), a uniquely painted house, a stadium, a fruit tree, or a former landmark is not just about geography. It’s about sharing a piece of the community’s soul, its history, and its collective memory.

The Poetic Echoes of Lost Landmarks

Perhaps the most poetic aspect of this directional culture, as The New Yorker documentary points out, is how Costa Ricans refer to long-gone landmarks. A prime example is the directions given “from the obelisk’s scar” on Paseo Colón, a main thoroughfare in San José. Though the obelisk was demolished in the 1950s, its memory endures in the minds and directions of the locals.

Technology Meets Tradition

In an era where digital maps dominate, Costa Rica’s traditional way of giving directions persists. While Waze and Google Maps are increasingly used, they haven’t replaced the charm and connection of the old ways. Ticos have ingeniously adapted, merging the convenience of technology with their distinctive, narrative-based directions.