When one thinks about retiring abroad there are not that many choices anymore. The far east has issues with terrorism and the distance from the U.S. In the event of an emergency at home. Most of Europe is too expensive.  That basically leaves Costa Rica, Nicaragua, Panama and Mexico.

Unfortunately Nicaragua has just never gotten its act to together. A series of bad governments have kept this second poorest country in the western hemisphere from developing. Panama does have appeal for some people but rising unemployment and crime,  a slump in housing and the small choices of areas where to live have all combined to keep it from becoming the “new” retirement haven that it was suppose to be. Don’t get me wrong!

Mexico has the largest number of retirees from the U.S, but things have really gone south there. The wars between the powerful drug cartels have escalated to an unbearable point and many many once desirable areas unsafe. One drug group called “La Familia” has virtually overrun parts of the State of Michoacan. Another dangerous group called the Zetas is also causing havoc. On top of that kidnappings have increased .. Kidnappers now target middle class people  instead of the very rich. It is only a matter of time before the set their eyes on foreign retirees.

All of the above makes Costa Rica more and more attractive to foreign retirees. I receive many inquiries form people who are thinking of moving to Costa Rica and/or taking one of my relocation/retirement tours. I make it a point to always give them my take on the other countries in the area.