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Is Costa Rica Right for You? Are You Right for Costa Rica?

Four important questions to ask yourself before you start packing.

By Tracey Minkin

Monday, September 24, 2007

Many retirees relocate in their own bubble, keeping their lifestyle from the States as intact as possible. But if that’s your goal, why leave the mainland? Costa Rica will bring you myriad surprises, both logistically and culturally, and you will likely enjoy a life much expanded because of it.

Still, not everyone is cut out for life in another culture, so ask yourself a few questions before you sell your house and buy that one-way ticket to San Jose:

1. Do I need lots of luxury items to be happy?
Plenty of expats enjoy a very high standard of living in Costa Rica, largely because certain services such as housekeeping and gardening are very inexpensive, but material goods are pricey and hard to get. Many retirees
say they love the change this has brought into their lives—treading more lightly on the earth—but make sure this is an adjustment you might enjoy making.

2. Do I need it done yesterday?
Culturally, things move slower in Latin America, and this is true in Costa Rica as well. Further, a type of politeness among locals makes it difficult for them to say no to a commitment, even if it will be impossible to fulfill. Speaking good Spanish will help you understand what you can expect from any agreement, but be prepared for it to happen on local time—not American time.

3. Do I hate insects with a passion?
This is the jungle. Please be ready to live with your fellow bugs in a balance of power.

4. Do I feel the American way is the only way?
This might sound ridiculous, but your expectations will be challenged every day, from how you pay for goods in a shop, to the fact that downtown San Jose has no street addresses (this will change soon, however). The happiest expats roll with the cultural tide, and find themselves in a happy blending of their old and new cultures.

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