Integrating in Costa Rica

In an effort to blend in with Costa Rican women I study them carefully. My goal is integration. Being one foot taller than the locals is my first obstacle. I might have to limit standing and walking to a minimum to blur out differences.

I gather wisdom on the Costa Rican lady. The tips below are essential in impersonating her:

Tip 1: Walk tall. Never leave home without gigantic high heels. Mud, potholes, steep hills, it doesn’t matter, heels is the way to go.
(Nope, hiking boots won’t do.)

Tip 2: Three words: Cleavage, cleavage, cleavage!
(Scissors can do wonders to your travel t-shirts.)

Tip 3: Pretty those nails. Looooong nails painted in at least two colors and on one nail a glittery adornment. Sparkles is glamour.
(Month old nail polish on toenails does not count.)

Tip 4: Reveal your bra. It is not about invisible lingerie, it is about showing everything you wear. Use a low-cut top so a bit of your bra peeks out. For the ultimate effect, always make sure your bra has a contrasting color. The other option is transparent garment. Once again apply the trick of contrasting colors. For example, wear a dark red bra with a light yellow transparent t-shirt. If you are wearing something strapless, make sure your bra straps stand out. Any store can sell you straps with bling bling fake diamonds in different shapes and colors.
(Take my advice, if you normally don’t bling your bra, try this at home first.)

Tip 5: Reveal more. The concept of covering up and guessing being a source of seduction for a guy is nonsense. Show what you've got! Show shoulders, bare backs, legs...
(Plastic ponchos might be practical, they are not sexy. Nor is a fleece vest.)

Tip 6: It's all about the attitude! Ladies, we are in Latin America. Consider it perfectly normal when a guy gives up his place in line for you or offers his seat in the bus.
(Who couldn’t get used to this?)

I get my toe nails decorated with glittery nail polish, my fleece permanently houses at the bottom of my backpack and I only wear deep cut t-shirts. Sensuality and seductiveness run through my veins. I feel like a Latina.
However, my bra stays hidden from Latino stares and my raincoat regularly covers up my cleavage. I do not master the custom nonchalant response when a guy holds a door for me. Instead my face lights up and I blush.

I won’t be mistaken for a local. I am a traveler stretching my adaptability, but I will always stand out.
Unless I buy myself some bling bling bra straps.