I have lived in Central America for almost 40 years and have had ample opportunity to observe expat retirement trends. During that time I have written retirement guides about Costa Rica, Panama, and Nicaragua, all of which have been best-sellers at one time or another. I have also discussed the […]
North Americans have been flocking to Costa Rica for more than 30 years, attracted by the tropical climate; low cost of living; top-notch, affordable medical care; bargain real estate; and natural beauty. I love Costa Rica. You can kick your shoes off on white-sand beaches, hike through lush lowland jungle or […]
* A special to Live in Costa Rica’s blog by a guest contributor The goal is of this article is to prove cold-hard facts that demonstrate why the ARCR’s monthly seminar is far superior to International Living’s Costa Rica Conference. It is incumbent upon this writer to provide objective information […]
At the beginning of the year, online magazine International Living named Costa Rica as the best place to retire abroad in its Annual Global Retirement Index. Now, the country is included in their list of “5 Best Places to Retire on $30,000 a Year.” (Christopher Howard’s response: Actually the cost […]
Due to the growing current political division in the United States many are choosing to relocate abroad. One of the most popular countries among expats is Costa Rica. When president Trump was first elected people were saying, “I am going to move to Canada or Costa Rica.” Well as it […]
Alcoholism is a serious problem among some Costa Ricans and expats here. Unfortunately, as many ticos say, “We have a very deeply-rooted guaro (drinking) culture.” This really comes as little surprise since drinking establishments are found on what seems to be almost every street corner. The nation’s main beer company, […]
The Cost of Living in Costa Rica is 23 percent lower than in United States according to Numbeo A lot has been said about the cost of living in Costa Rica, and for the most part we can safely say that you can save money on services such as medical […]
I remember when I made my first trip to Grecia over 40 years ago. In those days it was really a slice of paradise. Since Grecia has become a haven for many retirees, I always make it a point to include a visit there during the Central Valley portion of […]
With authoritarianism and proto-fascism on the rise in so many corners of the world, it is heartening to see a country where citizens are still deeply committed to democratic principles. And now its people are in the midst of trying to redefine their politics for the twenty-first century. Over the […]
Over the years I have personally met with three of Costa Rica’s presidents to discuss different expatriate issues. Through the many contacts that I have established over the years I have had access to many of the country’s leaders. Since Costa Rica does not meddle in other country’s affairs, it […]