Blog Posts About Life in Costa Rica Expert time-tested advice on how to live, retire and invest in Costa Rica.
Is it still safe to live in or visit Costa Rica?
In order to answer this question correctly and objectively, I need to put everything into its proper perspective. During the 40 plus years that I have lived in Costa Rica it has been branded and to some extent labeled as a “tropical paradise.” Even the national motto, pura vida, reinforces […]
A couple of important traffic laws for expats and tourists
From time to time, I like to keep people informed about traffic laws in Costa Rica. Being aware of these rules can help avoid getting a ticket (parte) and fine (multa) and even having one’s license plate confiscated. So, if you are illegally parked you can have your car’s places […]
Expats should know that there are health food stores in Costa Rica
Costa Rica does have health food stores called Macrobiótica that can be found all over the country. These establishments have an ample variety of vitamins, supplements and natural products like medicinal herbs. All you have to do to locate one, is to look on line or take a walk around […]
Costa Rica vs. Colombia (Medellín) as a Retirement or Relocation Destination
– basically, you get what you pay for. Costa Rica has been “the” expat relocation haven for more than thirty years and for good reason. But Medellín, Colombia has become the “new kid on the block “for some expats. Why? First and foremost is the cost of living in Colombia, […]
Expats can now savor more and more foods and goodies from home
Once you relocate to Costa Rica you will notice the abundance of affordable fresh foods and vegetables at the many weekend farmers markets. In addition, there many unique local food products sold here and a whole gamut of Costa Rican and international restaurants from which to choose. When I moved […]
International magazine chose Costa Rica as the ideal destination for 2024
Costa Rica is also a time-tested retirement haven. If you relocate, you will enjoy all this magical country has to offer year-round, and learn about its wonderful peace-loving people and rich vibrant culture. The renowned travel magazine Travel + Leisure selected our country as the ideal destination to visit in 2024. Costa […]
What is a real Costa Rica relocation seminar?
I have lived in Costa Rica for over 40 years. During this time there has been a whole gamut of relocation seminars, especially those that were selling real estate. However, most turned out to be “fly by night” operations trying to make a quick buck off naïve newcomers. Most have […]
The details of exonerating an automobile for future residents; Is it really worth it?
In 1992 Costa Rica abolished the exoneration of household goods and automobiles. The good news that after 30 years there is a new law that takes the place of the old lone but it much more complicated (engorroso in Spanish). In reality, there are less headaches if the corresponding taxes are […]
Jocotes and Expats
You are probably wondering what is a jocote? A jocote is a fruit tree, found Central America, Mexico, northern Peru and parts of north-coastal Brazil. The jocote goes by many names in other countries: purple mombin, red mombin, hog plum, and sinigwela to name a few. When the jocote’s peel […]
News for expats in Costa Rica about driving here
Costa Rica’s traffic police (tráficos) report that they issue about 1500 tickets (partes) year for the incorrect use of headlights. Expats and tourists should be familiar with Traffic Law Article 103 which states the following: Good news! Having a drivers licence with you may not be necessary in the future. […]