Properties in Costa Rica Blog

As one of the most biologically intense countries in the world, Costa Rica has long been known for attracting people craving a more self-sufficient way of life. As one of the first countries in the world to be 100% powered by renewables, it serves as a mecca for those seeking to live in harmony with nature. The natural environment and climate is conducive to a sustainable lifestyle. Year after year people who want to grow their own food, be energy independent and have their own independent water supply move here. This trend shows no sign of slowing down anytime soon either.

From farms to eco-retreats to to permaculture to micro farms, there is a large, enthusiastic, committed community for sustainable living and green design here. The country is known for its eco-tourism, and it’s a major industry for this small country. As a country, Costa Rica was the first in the world to run 100% on renewables. What this trend reflects is a desire among the locals as well as incoming expats to simplify their lives. It’s about downsizing, simplifying in style, and living in harmony with nature. People crave a high quality life at a slower pace and Costa Rica delivers on that desire. The country’s commitment to the environment and protecting biodiversity means it supports the sustainable lifestyle new residents seek.

Costa Rica’s climate makes it conducive to living sustainably and the year round near perfect weather simplifies energy needs because the country does not experience large fluctuations in temperatures throughout the year. In addition, the climate also supports year round agriculture, which makes it easy for locals to grow and produce much of their own food. There is a lot of rich land available, and the relatively young housing stock means that homes tend to be simple yet built with current materials, and can easily be adapted.

Self-sufficiency is part of the culture. People purchasing property and homes here want to take more control of their lives and be able to manage their resources for a number of reasons. For some it’s simply about reducing cost of living, and for others, it’s forged through a deep commitment to living a more sustainable lifestyle, and for others, it’s about a lifestyle choice that allows for more independence. The available housing inventory offers plenty of attractive options for those seeking partial self-sufficiency to those seeking 100% self-sufficiency.

The fact remains there are a number of issues attracting North Americans and Europeans to Costa Rica. Self-sufficiency is a rich part of the culture and history; it’s not an idea people are struggling to grasp and adapt to as is the case for much of North America.These expats seek a simpler more balanced life, and Costa Rica is conducive to a self-sufficient lifestyle. It’s a top international destination when it comes to living a sustainably and finding a home to achieve that goal.

Nature is the remedy for emotional, spiritual and physical well being. The more time we spend in nature, the better our health and overall disposition. It balances us. Urban environments tend to be hectic and stress filled. When people get an opportunity to step away, it provides a much needed time to rest and recharge. As we become more aware of the importance of green space to our health, many cities have invested in creating more open spaces for their residents.

Costa Rica has a long established reputation for being a place that is very much about nature. Here people are able to connect with nature daily. This factor may be one of the main reasons Costa Ricans tend to be in good health, experience lower stress and anxiety levels as well as a long life expectancy. The average life expectancy is 79.4 years. Spending time in nature recharges the soul and mind while energizing the body. It builds strength and resilience, and helps people to remain centered and balanced.

Whether it’s a walk in a park, strolling the beach or hiking through the forest, spending time in nature improves every aspect of our health, and has even been scientifically proven to benefit our brain chemistry. There’s something about nature that positively impacts our physiology. It’s been proven people who live in urban environments have higher levels of anxiety and depression than those who live in more natural settings. Nature is good for our overall mental health.

We also know that when we exercise outdoors instead of inside, physically we get more Vitamin D, which is a nutrient many people in the western world are deficient in. This deficiency leads to chronic health problems. Part of the problem we face in our current age is that our reliance on technology and addiction to devices means people spend less time outdoors and in nature and more times on their screens. Science shows us that this is neither good for our physical nor mental health. Too much screen time leads to social isolation and poor health.

When we spend time in nature with people it helps us strengthen our relationships too. Modern life is filled with distractions and when we get a chance to be outdoors with family and friends, it provides the vital time needed to connect and form strong intimate bonds with the people we care about. Technology and media is pervasive in every area of our life and finding time to be quiet and reflect is critical to our overall health. Spending time with nature solo gives us time to check in with ourselves and see how we are doing. It has a tendency to boast our overall mood too.

Making time to get outdoors will improve every aspect of your health. It builds physical and mental strength, lifts your mood and provides much needed time to restore balance. It’s one of the big factors in ensuring you life a happy, long life.

Dramatic volcanoes and mountainous ranges, national parks, lush green rainforests and proximity to San Jose, makes Costa Rica’s Central Valley one of the most desirable regions in the country. Here a cosmopolitan flair meets a laid back environmentally conscious sensibility. The Central Valley has grown to be a blend of cultures dating back to the original indigenous settlers and now absorbing the expats from North America and Europe to create an international melting pot of world cultures.

The region offers world-class medical care, excellent schools such as the Country Day School, cultural activities, the modern conveniences of restaurants and shops. The area has undergone careful sustainable development to create an inviting 21st Century environment complete with reliable high-speed wireless that is also ecologically sound. The Central Valley represents a pleasant anomaly that is highly desirable to many people.

San Jose forms the epicenter of the Central Valley. As Costa Rica’s capital, it is the urban center and the cultural and business pulse of the country. It’s also where you will find the best medical care in the country. These factors make the area very attractive to business people, as well as expats living and working in Costa Rica. Here you have the cultural charm, laid back lifestyle, commitment to sustainability coupled with a cosmopolitan vibe and 21st Century infrastructure and amenities. People are well-educated and aware of their environment here.

Neighboring Santa Ana and Escazu are two of the poshest neighborhoods in Costa Rica. Escazu is frequently referred to as the “Beverly Hills” of Costa Rica. These are the swanky areas in the Central Valley with many cultural activities as well as upscale shops, boutiques, and restaurants. These towns cater to a mixture of Ticos and expats living in the area and tends to be international. They are cosmopolitan, charming and offer easy access to downtown San Jose, top medical care and some of Costa Rica’s finest schools.

There are also neighboring colonial towns of Heredia, Alajuela, and Cartago. These places are deeply rooted in Costa Rica’s cultural history dating back to the 16th Century. As the oldest settlements in the country, part of their charm resides in the colonial architecture and traditional town planning. These are very attractive pleasant communities that offer a slower pace of life while still being close to the buzz and action of San Jose.

Alajuela is a pleasant escape from the hustle and bustle of San Jose. The central market, with fresh produce, fish, and meats, is a popular local meeting spot on Saturdays. This small city is in driving distance to the world-famous Arenal Volcano and Monteverde Forest Reserve. Also nearby is the Manuel Brenes Biological Reserve, which is filled with splendid orchids and rich vegetation.

Cartago was Costa Rica’s first capital and one of the oldest communities in Costa Rica. It was the capital until 1823. It’s famous for its grand gray and white Byzantine church, the Basilica de Nuestra Senora de Los Angles, which is home to the famous Black Madonna statue who is Costa Rica’s patron Saint. With rich soil, Cartago is a major producer of milk, potatoes, onions and coffee. The Reventazon River runs through the town too. It is also home to the well-respected Costa Rica Institute of Technology.

Heredia is the smallest Costa Rica providence, and it’s also the most authentic. There are few places that can really match the traditional charm of this town. Referred to as the “City of Flowers,” there’s an abundance of orchids, and it’s surrounded by coffee plantations. In the middle of the town, there is a Central Park, which acts as a meeting place. Here you will find the famous Costa Rica church, the Basilica de Barva. It’s also close to the Barva Volcano in Braulio Carrillo National Park.

These are just a few of the defining places in Costa Rica’s Central Valley. They form much of the core of the country’s cultural heritage. By successfully preserving the past while adapting to the needs of the present and future, these towns create pleasant, stable environments anchored in the country’s rich and diverse cultural history.

An anthropological museum and craft training center in the University of Peace as well as a natural park are all in the plans to be built this this year. These three architectural projects will create public spaces for the local population to gather and celebrate their cultural heritage as well as the natural environment. These projects are being designed to create community and foster dialogue among local people as well as preserve the historical cultural memory. They will be significant additions to the area and have a lasting impact on shaping the development of Ciudad Colon.

CANTONAL MUSEUM

The Cantonal Museum is an anthropological museum that celebrates the cultural history. Located on one side of the old market of Mora, the museum will have two levels, within which there will be an area dedicated to pre-Columbian history and the canton. There will be rooms for temporary exhibitions, a theater room, a square of sculptures, and a gallery which shows work generated by local artists. There will also be a Gazebo garden with a library and a classroom for workshops, as well as other gathering and meeting spaces.

The intent of area is to create public spaces for the community. According to the mayor of the district of Mora, Gilberto Monge, these structures will complement existing ones, the so-called old market which includes a farmers’ market, a youth house, park and church. It’s a town center for community cultural, religious, business and leisure activities to be carried out.

The museum will be a total area of 1,7000 square meters and collaborating with the Museums of Costa Rica. The project will cost an estimated $800 million CRD. The building will incorporate a combination of concrete, metal, ceramic and wood into its design to create a simple modern style that blends with the style of the current local market. The museum will also include outdoor garden space for people to gather and interact.

ARTISAN WORKSPACE

The university is also building a center for crafts and artists. The artisan workspace area will be designed in such a way that the public can watch the artists work. Construction is expected to start next year and cost around $190 million CRD. The funding will come from the National Director of Community Development. The initiative also includes the Association of Artisans of the district of Mora. It is an important part of both preserving and fostering the continuation of the local culture and heritage by supporting the local artisans and providing them with a community space to create and design that is easily accessible to the public at large.

CRISTOBAL NATURAL PARK AND RECREATIONAL AREA

Also planned for the area is the Cristobal Natural Park and Recreational area. The area will serve the communities of Biriteca, Bermudez and Carvaial and Cristobal. The area passes through the Pacacua River, which is contaminated and in the process of a massive clean up. Part of the plan is to generate awareness among the locals of the need to take care of the river and not contaminate it. To carry out this project, citizens participated in workshops and it is very much a community supported project. In the park, there will be a space for children to play, exercise equipment, outdoor theater, meeting areas and other community facilities.

It is estimated that the project will start construction next year. For this purpose, it obtained resources from the Ministry of Housing and Human Settlements through the communal bonds. The estimated cost is $500 million CRD, and the design will be part of the SIGNATURE TO01 Architects.

These three projects are significant developments to the community that will have a lasting positive impact on supporting the local culture and heritage while creating public meeting spaces for people to connect and engage in a dialogue that strengthens the overall well being of the community at large. They support both the cultural and artistic expression of the locals. While the museum perseveres the past cultural history, the artisan space nurtures the present and future of cultural memory and traditions. Meanwhile, the natural park supports the preservation of a healthy environment. All three projects create positive public meeting spaces that support and strengthen community.

In recent years, more Americans have discovered the advantage of moving to Costa Rica. This peaceful nation located just above Panama is Central America’s longest running democratic governments. American retirees, young people and families are attracted to Cost Rica’s high quality of life, relatively low cost of living compared to the US, commitment to sustainability and pristine natural environment. With an established strong expat community, it is easy for North Americans to adapt and integrate into life here.

Here’s a list of the top factors attracting Americans:

Cost of Living

The cost of living in Costa Rica is significantly less than major US and European metro areas. Here you can live comfortably, depending on the area, on anywhere from $1,000 to $4,000 a month. Retirees and expats most show a guaranteed income of $1,000 month in order to qualify for permanent residence. You can rent a two-bedroom house by the beach from anywhere from $350 to $1,000 a month. There is fresh, organic high quality produce available year round. Imports are high but with Amazon and online shipping, there are ways to cut costs.

Real Estate

People who purchase property here also do quite well if they are able to rent out the property as a vacation rental during high season. In fact, many foreign residents own rental properties, which they use as a second source of income. There is a booming tourist industry here and beach rentals are in high demand. Costa Rica real estate is recognized as a solid asset investment.

Quality of Life

Costa Rica has the longest running democracy in Central America, and is considered a very stable country. It also rates high each year on the happiest index, and in 2014 was voted the happiest country in the world. If this vote indicates anything, it’s an assurance that the country offers its residents a high quality of life. Here stress levels are low, nature is abundant and life is good. People focus on their overall well-being here including mental, psychical and spiritual health. The vast number of yoga retreats is a testament to this practice.

Weather

Costa Rica has a year round near perfect climate. Located just 8 to 12 degrees north of the equator, the temperatures are consistently in the 70s with plenty of sunshine. The rainy season brings afternoon/evening shows to the region, and the change in environment is a welcomed break from the constant sunshine. It provides time during the day to rest, read a book or just unwind and enjoy a good conversation amongst friends. Here you can forget the snow boats and winter jackets at most, you may occasionally need a long sleeve shirt. Costa Rica is a place where you can wear flip-flops year round and sunglasses are a must.

Outdoors

One of the biggest points of attraction to Cost Rica is the natural beauty and pristine environment. A long time, surfer’s paradise it is home to 27 national parks, 58 wildlife refuges, 32 protected zones, and wetland, forest and biological reserves as well as numerous other conservation areas. 25% of the country’s landmass is protected. With striking rainforests, mangroves, stretches of white sandy beaches, Costa Rica is one of the most biologically intense regions in the world. The biodiversity here is unmatched making it a critical place for wildlife preservation. The country takes protecting biodiversity very seriously and actively works to protect natural habitats as land development occurs. Costa Rica is home to many world-class waves attracting surfers from the around the world each year.

Green

Cost Rica takes the environment and sustainable development seriously in order to protect the unique ecosystems that thrive in this area and critically important to the earth’s biodiversity. It is one of the first nations to run 100% on renewable energy drawing much of its energy from hydro-power. It is also working hard to eliminate gasoline dependent cars and building a public transit system as well as encouraging residents to move to hybrids or electric cars.

Healthcare

Costa Rica is known for its excellent healthcare at affordable prices, and medical tourism is a major industry here, and in fact is expected to double by 2020. Each year many US citizens as well as people from other countries, travel to Costa Rica for medical and dental care that is high quality and more affordable than their home countries. Medicine is an industry that this small country has really been able to master creating a sustainable model that is both high quality as well as affordable.

Strong Expat Community

Costa Rica has a strong expat community making assimilation here relatively easy for both retirees as well as families. There are also some excellent private day schools including both Waldorf and Montessori options here. The solid schools prepare students well for university in both Europe and the United States. It’s hard to find another country with Costa Rica’s pace of life, natural beauty and high quality of life outside of major cities that offers a parallel quality of amenities, services and educational options that Costa Rica can provide. The enclaves of expats provide a way to get involved and connected fairly easily too making the adjustment to a foreign country seamless. It offers a sense of community and as well as a support system.

Costa Rica’s draw of expats is not expected to slowdown anytime soon either. As the development projects and continual improvement suggest, Costa Rica is a recognized alternative to hectic pace and stressed out lifestyle many Americans face today. It’s a welcoming country that continues to attract people looking for an alternative place to build a life that is less costly than their present one without sacrificing quality of life.