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The Puerto Viejo area is much more than magical beaches and perfect surfing waves. Right here, between the Caribbean Sea and the rainforest, beats the cultural heart of Costa Rica – the Bribri tribe. Now, a new technological project born right here is helping connect travelers to this ancient culture.
Who are the Bribri? The Bribri are one of the largest and most deeply rooted indigenous groups in Costa Rica. They live in deep harmony with nature, preserve ancient traditions, and place paramount importance on the land, wildlife, and local cacao crops. Their language is not just a simple communication tool, but a window into an entire worldview that respects the environment and tells the story of the region.
However, like many indigenous languages worldwide, the Bribri language is under constant threat of disappearing in the face of the modern world, and the number of native speakers is dwindling.
Technology Meets Tradition: The First Online System of Its Kind To create a true bridge between the local community and the global traveler community—and specifically the Israelis who visit the area—a new, first-of-its-kind project was recently launched: a dedicated website for translating the Bribri language.
The new platform, developed as a local initiative, offers a smart and accessible digital dictionary that translates the local language directly into English, Spanish, and yes – Hebrew too. This project allows our travelers to connect with the place on a much deeper level, and communicate (even with just a few words) with the locals in their original language.
What will you find on the new site?
- Multilingual translation: Quick and easy search of words and concepts from Bribri to Hebrew, English, and Spanish.
- Digital preservation for future generations: Beyond being a tool for travelers, the site serves as a platform for documenting the language and preserving it using modern code, a simple user interface, and fast response times.
- An authentic connection to the place: A real opportunity to enrich tours in Bribri villages and cacao farms with words that will bring a huge smile to the faces of your local hosts.
Your first step in the jungle begins with language Language is always the first bridge to understanding one another. We at Beit Bina Puerto Viejo believe that our stay here should be accompanied by respect, listening, and getting to know those who lived here long before us.
We invite you to visit the new site, discover a little more about the Bribri language, and try using it on your next tour in the area. Who knows, maybe the next word you learn will open the door to an unforgettable experience in the heart of the jungle.
You are always welcome to visit us at the Beit Bina center to hear more about the project, consult about your onward journey, and take part in our weekly community activities!