By Shirley Miller

There is a great deal of interest in retirement in Costa Rica, and it grows yearly. Would we like to retire in Costa Rica? Sure we’d like to settle down on a secluded farm just outside of San José, Costa Rica, and relax for the rest of our lives, but we’re not quite ready for that. Only time will tell.

We’ve encountered numbers of retirees during our Costa Rica travels. They all have one thing in common: they fell in love with the country and wanted to spend their remaining “good” years enjoying the weather, natural beauty and friendliness of the people.

Former San Diego dentist, Chuck Miller, entertained us in his home at Tango Mar Resort at the base of the Nicoya Peninsula. His penchant for creativity is being fulfilled through active projects such as building two homes, landscaping them, then designing and constructing the furniture, cabinets,etc. The monkeys are his neighbors, while the beautiful flowers he cultivates in his environment enhance the jungle.

Toni and Dan Daniel originally discovered Costa Rica 38 years ago. Their demanding and active lifestyle in Sacramento, California, provided sufficient funds for travel, but they needed more time to themselves. After 12 years of “visits only” the Daniels returned to Costa Rica for a permanent stay. It was a big step, but one they’ve never regetted.

Their three-bedroom home is on a secludeded section of land overlooking Lake Arenal, the largest lake in Costa Rica. They enjoy the peace and quiet and the guapote bass fishing in the summer, while Arenal Volcano’s bursts of life add mystique to the adjacent countryside.

I’m sure retirement anywhere in the world isn’t perfect, including our own back yard. But each person must decide what they are looking for, and the best way to find it is to spend time researching.

If you can afford it, visit several areas—there is no one area of Costa Rica where retirees congregate. Meet with others who live there. Ask how and why other retirees enjoy the lifestyle. Get acquainted with your potential neighbors, as well as yourself. Learn the language. Join organizations. Keep active. Give of your time to others. Take the hand of friendship that is offered—that’s easy in Costa Rica. Maintain an attitude of openess. Become part of your new world and give something back to the country, the people and the land. You’ll have a richer and fuller life.