Blog Posts About Life in Costa Rica Expert time-tested advice on how to live, retire and invest in Costa Rica.

What constitutes a real relocation tour and seminar to Costa Rica?
For the last 30 years I have been writing guidebooks, articles about living here and conducting relocation tours and seminars. The question is, what should relocation tour really consist of? First, it should cover the most desirable areas to live and include the following: infrastructure: accessibility, good medical care, shopping, […]

“Fragments” of Costa Rica
Interesting facts about Costa Rica that you might not have known I’ve been living in Costa Rica for over 20 years now, and though I think I’ve seen it all, there’s still stuff that catches me off guard or makes me go “Uh!, that I didn’t know” or “Oh yeah! […]

People from all walks of life are relocating to Costa Rica
Most people who relocate here are doing so to stretch the dollars they get from their pensions, retirement funds and/or Social Security. Interestingly, even those with money, some of whom can work from abroad, are relocating to Costa Rica from the U.S to live more affordably, as in the article […]

The Limitations of Border Runs
Why they should not be a common practice While border runs may provide a temporary solution for individuals seeking to extend their stay in Costa Rica, it is essential to consider the limitations and potential drawbacks associated with this practice. This essay explores why border runs should not be a […]

San José celebrates its 200th birthday
On May 16, 1823, the country’s capital was moved from the city of Cartago to San José. It is now made up of 31 cantones or municipalities with each having its own government and mayor. Every four years municipal elections are held to choose a new mayor. Few expat retirees […]

7 tips about Costa Rica’s bus drivers for expats
As I have alluded to in my books and the previous article, traveling by bus is affordable in Costa Rica since the cost is no more than $10 dollars to travel to most places in Costa Rica. Bus schedules for both long-distance travel and routes within the city can be […]

10 tips (bolados) to prevent an accident when driving in the rain
With the onset of the wet season (invierno) around the corner, Costa Ricans, tourists and expat retirees need to exercise extreme caution when driving any vehicle. Following the advice below can help prevent accidents and even the loss of human life. While at the wheel during a rain storm, drivers […]

A lot of activities for expats this weekend
No reason to be bored while living in Costa Rica. Just look at some of the activities enjoyed by Costa Ricans and expats the weekend of May 5-7.. This is a sample of what was available around the country but mostly in the Central Valley. Many activities a Free for […]

Tips for safe ocean swimming in Costa Rica
One experienced Costa Rican lifeguard provided the following list of recommendations when swimming in the ocean:
What is Easter Week like in Costa Rica
The week before Easter Sunday is characterized by many activities that current and future expats should be aware of. Ticos, who can afford to, head for the beach. As a result, the Central Valley resemble one huge “ghost town (pueblo fantasma in Spanish).” It is easier than ever to get […]