(and why they should NOT be a common practice) While border runs may provide temporary solutions for individuals seeking to extend their stay in Costa Rica, it is important to consider the limitations and potential drawbacks associated with this practice. This essay explores why border runs should not be a […]
Expats may find it important that two local healthcare provider systems, Hospital Clinica Biblica and Hospital Metropolitano, offer cost-saving plans for their clients. Both programs, for a small monthly fee, extend discounts on many healthcare services, including doctor visits, lab services, some medical procedures, pharmacies, and much more. If you […]
Until recently, dogs were not part of most families in Costa Rica, nor was there any pet culture at all. Now, almost everyone has one or more pets at home. Some years ago, people were complaining that in their condominiums, dog owners wouldn’t clean up the poop their dogs leave behind. This […]
Many persons are not aware that a few years ago the government of Costa Rica changed the rules to make it easier for expats to become citizens. The process is now fairly simple and is similar to obtaining residency (something that needs to be done first.) What are the advantages […]
I always do a fly-over of the topic of renting in Costa Rica in my presentation at the ARCR Seminars, but because I know quite a few El Residente readers are renting, as will many future ARCR members, I decided to write this more in-depth article. Now you probably say […]
I just received an inquiry from someone who was thinking about moving here but changed his mind because of the high cost of living. A key factor is the fact that the dollar’s strength has fallen here. First, the latter is not a permanent situation. Costa Rica has always artificially […]
Recently, I received a message from someone who expressed interest in taking one of my monthly relocation tours. In his letter, the gentleman stated why he was reluctant to move to Costa Rica at this time. He stated bluntly that “San José is a pit.” He is not the first […]
A couple of weeks ago I published an article about how a single person can survive on $1,200 per month. Indeed, it is possible with a little self-discipline. The article below exemplifies how a couple from the States and their children can live in a tropical setting with less and […]
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 […]
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 […]