Properties in Costa Rica Blog

If you’re a freelancer, you’ve likely had daydreams of moving to an exotic land and working under the shade of a palm tree. But that kind of setup doesn’t need to be a fantasy. In fact, millions of freelancers and digital nomads travel to places like this to make those dreams a reality.

Costa Rica is one of the most popular destinations in the world for freelancers, and when you know the facts, it’s easy to see why. This tropical Central American country is easy to obtain a freelance work visa for, offers a low cost of living, and is home to some of the most beautiful landscapes, shorelines, and wildlife on earth. 

But like all countries, Costa Rica comes with pros, cons, and unique opportunities. If you’re thinking about freelancing in this part of the world, read on to learn more about whether Costa Rica is the right destination for you. 

Is Costa Rica A Good Place To Live For Freelancers And Digital Nomads? 

The short answer to this question is a resounding yes. Labeled by some as the “Switzerland of the Americas”, it’s a near-ideal location for living and working remotely. So, what makes Costa Rica such a great destination for independent online contractors? Let’s go through a list.

• Great weather all year – First off, the climate is very agreeable. While peak summer seasons can be very hot, daily temperatures remain at an average of around 70 F, and frequent rain ensures that nature is consistently lush and green.
  
• Easy access to freelance visa – If you can prove you are an actively earning, self-employed freelancer, you can quite easily obtain a Costa Rican freelance visa that lasts 2 years at a time. It costs about $250.
  
• Low to mid-range cost of living – You can rent a nice two-bedroom apartment in the city center for roughly $1000 per month, including utilities. Two adults can comfortably live off of $2000 a month, which is considerably lower than other popular freelance destinations around the world.
  
• Expat-friendly community – Due to its ideal location and affordability, there are millions of expats, international freelancers, and digital nomad types living in Costa Rica. This makes it a diverse community of people that you can easily assimilate into as a newcomer. The Costa Rican people also have a reputation for being welcoming and friendly.
  
• Fast internet – Costa Rica has a fully developed fiber-optic network that allows remote workers to conduct online business as they would in any other country.
  
• Stable politics – This small country is known for its long history of stable democratic politics and progressive LGBTQ+ and environmental policies. Costa Rica is widely considered a safe, politically stable, and comfortable place to live for people from all walks of life.
  
• Internationally compatible time zone – From November to May, Costa Rica operates on GMT-6 (CST) time, which is the same time zone system that most international clients use. This makes it easy for freelancers to take international calls or video conferences. There’s no daylight savings time, so the time never changes locally, but international DST may affect the available working hours.
  
• Accessible location – Costa Rica is just a short flight or two away from North America, so if that’s your home, it won’t be hard to go back and forth as needed for work or family.
  
• Beautiful nature and wildlife to explore – Costa Rica has some of the most beautiful natural scenery in the world, and some of the most fascinating wildlife. Spot various bats, monkeys, tapirs, and even jaguars in vibrant green conservations. 

All in all, Costa Rica is a beautiful, socially accommodating, and affordable place to live for locals and internationals. It’s also one of the safest places to travel in Central America, making it popular amongst younger freelancers or those with children to consider.

Are There Any Downsides To Freelancing In Costa Rica?

Every country has its ups and downs, and Costa Rica is no exception. But even so, the cons of living in this tropical country are quite manageable with the right attitude of adventure. Some cons include:

• Underdeveloped roads – Many Costa Rican roads are rural and potholed, which makes traveling around somewhat challenging. However, as a freelancer, you probably won’t have as much need for local transport as the average working individual.
  
• Slow public transportation – What little public transport services exist tends to be slow and poorly run. However, similarly to the underdeveloped roads issue, this shouldn’t be too much of a problem for freelancers who do their work remotely.
  
• Extreme weather – In the height of summer, Costa Rica reaches temperatures between 80 and 90 degrees F. In the rainy (winter) season, it buckets down for days on end.
  
• Occasional earthquakes – Mild earthquakes are common in Costa Rica, with small ones sometimes occurring daily and larger ones several times a year. However, major earthquakes only occur once every decade and when they do, damages are manageable.
  
• Pick-pocketing – Although Costa Rica is generally considered a safe country, that doesn’t mean it comes completely without risk. Tourists are frequent targets for pick-pocketers, so you’ll need to keep your wits about you when out. 

Costa Rica is a vibrant country with lots of different natural areas to explore, people to meet, and wildlife to see. But if you don’t function well in busy, sometimes unpredictable environments, the pace and excitement of Costa Rica might not be the place for you. 

Costa Rica Is A Great Destination For Freelancers – If You Feel Like An Adventure 

If you’re a freelancer looking for adventure, Costa Rica is an ideal destination. 

Home to millions of other expats, remote workers, and digital nomads, you won’t struggle to fit into the hodge-podge community of internationals. You’ll also find that the welcoming community will help you with everything, from how to make an invoice with the correct details for locally available payment methods to where to find a new charger for your laptop. Plus, the cost of living is much lower than you’ll find in most other popular freelance hotspots. However, there are some infrastructural fallibilities to consider. 

The underdeveloped roads and public transport systems can be a bother, and extreme weather patterns may be cause for discomfort if you come from Northern or European climates. 

But if you can withstand the heat, rainy seasons, and somewhat lackadaisical atmosphere, Costa Rica offers a wonderful laid back lifestyle that makes it a very rewarding destination for international freelancers.

Making a Costa Rica real estate investment can be a great way to secure your financial future. However, it’s important to take the necessary steps to protect your investment.

If you’re thinking about investing in Costa Rica real estate, read on to learn more about how you can protect your investment.

Understand the Local Laws and Regulations

The appeal and potential financial return of investing in real estate can be quite attractive for those looking to invest their money internationally. 

If you’re thinking about Costa Rica real estate, understanding the local laws and regulations is a must-have so that your investment stays safe. 

Knowing the country’s legal framework can help investors comprehend how assets are transferred, owned, and managed. Consulting with a legal advisor that specializes in Costa Rican law is one way to ensure your investments stay secure along with researching any relevant taxes, permits, or restrictions related to the kind of property being purchased. 

Ultimately, taking the necessary steps to understand local laws and regulations when investing in Costa Rica real estate will save you time and money.

Choose an Experienced Lawyer to Help With the Purchase

When purchasing real estate in Costa Rica, using an experienced lawyer is essential to protect your investment. Real estate law can be complex, even within a single country, so it is important to work with someone who has a thorough knowledge of both national and local regulations. 

By enlisting the services of a knowledgeable legal professional, you will ensure that the title transfer process goes smoothly and that you have all the necessary documentation to verify ownership and financing of your property. 

Furthermore, they can provide guidance on other contractual matters such as taxes or insurance to give you peace of mind when investing in Costa Rican real estate.

Consider the Rental Potential of Your Property

Whether you’re buying Costa Rica real estate as an investment or simply wanting to own a vacation home, considering the rental potential of your property is a great way to maximize your worth. 

Many people are reluctant to rent out their homes due to worry, but there are simple steps you can take to ensure your investment stays safe and sound. Property management services provide a hands-on approach for owners looking for extra protection and affordability when renting. 

By providing competent security measures like inspecting and managing tenants, property managers can give peace of mind that will guarantee the safeguarding of real estate investments. 

Taking into consideration, the advantage of renting can be highly beneficial; getting access to new and interesting tourism markets, generating reliable income streams, and benefiting from long-term capital appreciation are all valid investments that can increase your value in the long run.

Know the Risks of Property Ownership in Costa Rica

When investing in real estate in Costa Rica, it’s important to understand the associated risks. Every property has an associated legal risk and must always be evaluated by a qualified attorney to ensure that all transactions are correctly executed. 

Additionally, real estate taxes can vary widely, depending on the location and features of a property. Planning accordingly to pay existing financial obligations should be considered when making any purchase. 

Moreover, natural disasters such as floods, landslides, and hurricanes can cause damage to properties, so it’s worthwhile researching if an area is prone to such occurrences before investing in real estate there. 

Lastly, it’s always advisable to factor in potential closing costs or fees associated when purchasing a property in Costa Rica; these will ultimately add onto your investment cost and although small can sometimes make a serious difference for those with limited budgets.

The Importance of Due Diligence When Buying a Property

Buying a property in Costa Rica is an exciting prospect, however, it’s important to approach this investment with due diligence. 

Any prospective buyer should consult with legal and tax experts, as well as research the current market and non-listed opportunities. 

Additionally, surveying the zoning laws and developments of the area where you are looking to invest can offer key insights into the location’s prospects for growth. Beyond just asking questions, double-check all documents, contracts, etc., to make sure you are making a sound decision. 

Finally, it’s essential to understand all of your financing options before submitting an offer on a property in Costa Rica. 

Ultimately, if one follows this critical process of due diligence when purchasing a property in Costa Rica, one will be much more likely to secure the right property at the right price and avoid potential complications down the line.

How to Secure and Insure Your Property in Costa Rica

Securing and insuring your property in Costa Rica can seem intimidating at first, but it doesn’t have to be. With a few simple steps, you can make sure that your property is safe and properly insured. 

The first step is to invest in a good security system, such as motion sensors and an alarm system. If the property you have is not too isolated, speaking with local neighborhood watch groups can be a great way to get additional protection from break-ins or vandalism. 

As for insuring your property in Costa Rica, there are several highly rated companies that offer comprehensive insurance packages tailored to your specific needs – whether you need coverage against damage due to natural disasters or theft-related issues. 

Doing thorough research on the policies available can make sure you’re getting the most out of your investment, while also providing peace of mind.

About the author: Bianca Ward is a motivated and passionate real estate investor who has been in the business for over 10 years. She strives to build relationships with clients by talking to a stranger via video call via CallMeChat, backed by a commitment to customer service. Bianca seeks out investment opportunities that will maximize returns while minimizing risk.

There are plenty of reasons to consider owning real estate in Costa Rica. The country is well-known for its natural beauty. Its laid-back lifestyle is appealing to many. But there are also some significant advantages to owning property here that you may not be aware of. 

In this blog post, we’ll explore some of the top benefits of Costa Rican real estate ownership. Whether you’re looking for a vacation home, a rental property, or a place to retire, Costa Rica should be on your radar. 

Let’s take a closer look at what this beautiful country has to offer!

Overview of the Real Estate Market in Costa Rica

The real estate market in Costa Rica has grown steadily over the past several years, with new developments and residential housing popping up across the country. While property in desirable tourist destinations such as coastal regions remains pricier than other areas in Costa Rica, you can still find an array of properties at a variety of price points.

Whether you’re looking for a beach-side condo, or a lush inland villa – Costa Rica offers something for all types of buyers.

With enticing locales and infrastructure that caters to tourists, purchasing real estate in Costa Rica is an attractive and lucrative investment opportunity for many people worldwide.

Benefits of Owning Real Estate in Costa Rica

Owning real estate in Costa Rica can be an excellent investment opportunity. Property values can not only tend to increase over time, but there are also great tax benefits as well. The lenient foreign numbers laws make it easy for buyers who are not citizens of Costa Rica to purchase property without any legal hassle.

Costa Rica is welcoming to all types of investors due to its warm and stable political environment, so it’s a smart choice for anyone wanting to invest in real estate for long-term financial rewards and retirement planning. 

Furthermore, rental properties can be incredibly lucrative in some areas, which makes the appeal even more promising. Taking advantage of the opportunity to own real estate in such a beautiful, vibrant country truly has its benefits!

Factors to Consider Before Buying Property in Costa Rica

For those interested in purchasing property in Costa Rica, there are several important aspects to take into account before making any decisions. 

Due to Costa Rica’s rural and natural environment, its infrastructure may not be as developed as in other areas. Therefore, prospective buyers should consider the potential distance from their residences to grocery stores, public transportation hubs, and professional services such as medical clinics, banks, and schools before investing in real estate. 

Other factors include whether the property is located near a city or beach town, local laws related to taxes and ownership rights, and the quality of water supply on the land. 

Those who plan to stay in the country for reasonable periods will also want to research the available housing options and check that their desired location provides adequate amenities for their needs.

Financial and Tax Benefits of Investing in Real Estate in Costa Rica

Investing in real estate in Costa Rica can provide substantial financial and tax benefits. Investors may be eligible for credits and concessions, such as reduced income taxes on rental income, caps on capital gains taxes, and waivers from estate taxes and transfer fees. 

Investors also have a choice of fixed or long-term mortgage instruments that offer attractive financing options, allowing them to leverage their investments for maximum returns.

Furthermore, Costa Rica’s tax laws are designed to make real estate ownership attractive by affording generous educational deductions and other deductions for interest expenses. 

For all these reasons, investing in real estate in Costa Rica is a great way to grow your wealth while taking advantage of many potential financial and tax benefits.

Tips for Finding the Best Investment Opportunities in Costa Rica

Costa Rica offers a unique and attractive investment landscape to those looking for long-term opportunities. With its growing economy, low crime rates, great infrastructure, and strong tourism industry, it’s no surprise that many investors are eyeing the place for their next venture. 

To make sure you are finding the best opportunities in Costa Rica, you should start by doing your research. Read up on the local markets and check the news to get an idea of what kind of sectors are thriving right now; look into laws and regulations related to foreign investment; network with people already in Costa Rica who can give you invaluable advice; and prepare financially. 

Even if it’s already a well-established business possibility or a successful startup, take time to properly study every aspect before taking action. 

Additionally, if you’re still unsure of how to invest in Costa Rica, reaching out to experts in this field will be key – they can help you make well-informed decisions that will ensure the success of your project.

Are There Any Drawbacks to Owning Real Estate in Costa Rica?

Owning real estate in Costa Rica is a popular choice for many people, this tropical paradise offers plenty of different activities that can keep even the busiest person occupied.

But, as with any investment, there are certain drawbacks to owning real estate here. For one thing, managing a property from abroad can be a challenge, particularly if you don’t have a reliable on-the-ground contact who can take care of things for you. 

Plus, there are several costs associated with ownership and upkeep, such as taxes and insurance that can add up quickly if not budgeted properly in advance. 

Lastly, being foreign-owned means that some legal issues may present barriers to what you are trying to accomplish – understanding Costa Rican law and knowing how to navigate potential obstacles is key when buying or selling property in the country. 

All in all, while ownership of property here provides its rewards, it’s important to consider any possible drawbacks before taking the plunge.

Wrapping Up

Despite the current effects of COVID-19 on the real estate market, owning property in Costa Rica still has many benefits. If you’re thinking of buying property in Costa Rica, be sure to consider all the factors involved before making a decision. With its natural beauty, stable economy, and friendly people, Costa Rica is a great place to own a piece of paradise.

About the author: Diane H Wong works as a writer at a custom essay writing service, kingessays.com. Her favorite challenge is jumping into new technology and learning about the latest marketing techniques. In this case, Diane has a chance to share her experience with other people and stay on top of evolving tech trends.

If you’re running a business, you must consider how your location affects your business and customers. For small businesses, it can be challenging to run a business when there aren’t enough places to store your inventory, make payments, or even locate customers. Small business owners need to find a way to make themselves more efficient and offer their services and products in new ways. 

Acquiring a retail space for lease can help you do this by allowing you to operate out of any location that suits your needs. If you are considering renting a property to set up your business, there are many reasons why this could make sense. This article explains why small businesses should consider renting a property.

Buying vs Renting a Property for Business

When starting a business, you must ensure you are using money effectively. Instead, you should be focusing on your business and how to grow it. You must spend your money wisely and avoid making any mistakes.

One of the most common mistakes that startups make is buying a property for their business instead of renting one. There are many reasons why you should opt for a shop space to rent instead of buying one. Renting is an excellent way for small businesses to get started. Here are reasons why small businesses should consider renting a property:

Reduced Risk

If you own a small business, you understand that the unexpected is the most significant risk you face. In business, so much can happen, from employee turnover to equipment breakdowns or power outages. In such cases, your business must have the resources and flexibility to keep moving forward.

Small business space for rent can reduce these risks by providing long-term access to dedicated shop space. And unlike buying a space, which requires upfront capital for renovations and fixtures and ongoing maintenance costs, renting makes it easy for businesses to shift as their needs change over time.

Flexible Space

Acquiring a retail space for lease gives you plenty of options if you need extra office space or work from home. You can always find somewhere bigger if needed, but if your business grows, so does your rent bill! If things are quiet at the moment and you aren’t using all of the space available, then it makes sense to rent out unused rooms instead of paying for them when they’re not being used.

It is Less Expensive 

Renting can be less expensive than buying. Businesses that need more funds to purchase a building outright may want to rent an office space instead. Many different leases are available, so you can find the one that works best for your business. You will also save on utilities and maintenance costs by renting instead of owning.

Renting also allows you to pay only for what you use, making it easy for small businesses with a limited amount of money. For example, suppose your business is only open four days a week but needs an office five days a week. Renting might work out better than buying or leasing an office space.

You Don’t Have to Worry About Maintenance

When you own a property, you are responsible for all maintenance issues. If any repairs are needed, it will be up to you to handle them. However, this is not an issue if you rent a small commercial space because someone else will take care of it. This is especially true if you are looking for office space or business premises that need constant upkeep and maintenance.

You Are Not Responsible for Property Taxes

Property taxes are common expenses for a business, but they often represent a significant financial burden. If you own a property and have to pay the annual property tax bill, you can be held responsible for those taxes even if your business has moved out of that space. You can avoid this liability entirely by opting for a small commercial space to rent.

Renting Allows More Location Flexibility

When you own a property in the same city as your business, it’s easy to drop everything and move to another location at any time. But if you rent out a space, finding another place that meets all your needs is more burdensome. 

You may have no choice but to take on additional risk if you try to relocate too quickly. Renting allows you to move without worrying about finding another suitable space immediately.

The Process Is Much Faster

Another benefit of acquiring a small commercial space for rent is that the process is much faster than buying or building your property. It takes less time, money, and effort to rent a property than to build one from scratch.

If you’re interested in investing in real estate but are still determining how long it will take for your investment return, renting may be a better option. This is until you get more familiar with the market and determine how long your investment return will take.

It’s Not a Long-Term Commitment

Retail space for lease allows you to decide how much time and money you want to commit to your business. Long-term leases do not tie you down; instead, you can decide when and if you want to move locations.

Suppose something unexpected happens, like an increased demand for your product or service. In that case, you can easily adjust and expand as needed without worrying about finding a new location.

Ability to Expand and Contract Depending on the Season

Renting a property allows you to grow your business without worrying about buying new properties or moving out of them once your company no longer needs them. It also means that if things go south regarding business productivity or sales volume. Thus, you won’t be stuck paying for an empty building while waiting for things to improve again.

No Building Code Complications

Owners must comply with all local codes when they build their properties or rent out space to others. But there’s no such requirement when renting, so it’s less likely your landlord will have any issues with your business operations at their property.

Turnkey Location

The other main reason people should choose to rent a property is that they have an ideal location for their business needs. Suppose you know what kind of business you want to open but need to know where or how much space it will take up in your current office space.

In that case, it might be worth considering renting out an entire building or even an entire city block so that you can find the perfect spot for your new venture!

No Hidden Costs

Buying a property can be expensive because of the fees associated with owning it. You’ll need to pay yearly property taxes, insurance, and maintenance costs. So when you take out a mortgage, those expenses are added to the loan.

Renting allows you to avoid these hidden costs, so your business can focus on growing without worrying about financing decisions or tax obligations. When you rent, the landlord handles all those expenses and will pass them along in rent payments without additional fees to your business or employees.

Get a Place With the Right Square Footage

If you’re looking for a large space to set up shop, renting space can be a good option. You don’t have to worry about buying or leasing your building and dealing with all the headaches that come with it. You can get what you want in a small commercial space for rent without spending hours researching different options.

Renting Allows You to Try Out Different Neighborhoods and Spaces

When you’re just starting, knowing the right location for your business can take time. You could prefer a bustling city center, or you might be more interested in a rural area with fewer people around. Whatever the case, renting allows you to try out different neighborhoods and spaces without committing long-term.

Most small businesses prefer to be in a more established location. This is because it gives them access to better clients and customers. If you have grown too big for your current location, renting allows you to try out new neighborhoods and spaces without committing for a long time. This could help you save money or find an ideal space that would not be available through traditional real estate options.

No Upfront Costs

You don’t have to pay up-front expenses when renting a property. When you own a business, you must pay for the entire cost of it, including all of its equipment and furnishings. If your business is small and requires little equipment or furnishings, this may not be an issue for you. However, if it costs more for equipment or furnishings, you may want to pay cash for them instead of leasing them from a landlord.

Rental Fees Are Low 

Most landlords charge month-to-month rental fees instead of asking for long-term leases or annual payments to minimize risk. If your business grows slower than expected, there will be no big surprises when it comes time to renew your lease at the end of each year.

Conclusion

If a small business is looking for a place to call home for the next few years that won’t break the bank or strain its budget, this could be the answer. There’s no question about it: renting can be an excellent solution for small businesses. 

Whether it’s because you want to test out a location before committing or are just looking for a way to save money, renting can help make your business more viable in the long run. And when you pay attention to the details, success is often possible.

Images source: Pexels

Moving to Costa Rica is more common than you know. The affordable living costs and stunning scenery make it an excellent destination for retirees and adventurous Americans looking for a change. Many are willing to trade their U.S. lifestyle for a beachfront property in Costa Rica. And the shift towards remote work and hybrid workplaces gives people the freedom to hold on to their jobs and live anywhere they want.

But relocating to Costa Rica isn’t always as easy as it seems. Like all international moves, it requires understanding customs regulations on both sides of the border. However, if you’re considering a move, there are a couple of things to know about shipping items to Costa Rica and claiming them without breaking the bank.

Claiming Household Goods Across the Border

Costa Rica allows people to bring various household items and belongings into the country. However, once you exceed a value of $500, you may have to pay a duty tax on anything extra. It’s important to know this when planning a move and calculating your budget.

Furthermore, while you can move to Costa Rica with a wide range of personal household items, not everything can make it past the border. Some electronics and larger appliances can be restricted in Costa Rica. At the very least, importing them will require more detailed documentation like commercial receipts, lading bills, etc.

Naturally, you should also present a detailed inventory of your household goods and other personal belongings. Costa Rican customs officers often require that the brand name, serial number, and declared value accompany the electronics. Often, insurance documents are necessary for larger appliances.

As you can tell, importing household goods into Costa Rica doesn’t have the easiest bureaucracy and logistics. 

How to Ship Household Goods to Costa Rica

Once you know what you want to bring, it’s time to consider transportation options. Although Costa Rica is relatively close to the U.S., road-tripping would be arduous. You’d have to clear too many border crossings, travel in a large vehicle, and be on the road for days if you drive non-stop. Otherwise, you’re looking at a couple of weeks on the road.

That’s why using professional movers is the best way to go. If you’re unfamiliar with international moving companies, you can find more information here https://threemovers.com/costa-rica-international-moving-companies/ about contacting and coordinating with international movers.

But here’s something you need to know.

You can import household goods into Costa Rica via land, air, and sea. Land transportation typically involves loading your items in the back of a truck or van and driving them to the desired pickup spot in Costa Rica.

Air shipping is arguably the fastest way to transport cargo from the U.S. and elsewhere in the world to Costa Rica. But air transportation is expensive, has more complex logistics, and won’t always deliver your cargo to a convenient location.

Shipping household goods via ocean freight is another handy option when moving high-volume cargo.

What to Expect in Terms of Cost Breakdowns

Every shipping company uses its own formula to determine the cost of shipping cargo from point A to B. Factors that usually influence the price include the following:

• Distance
• Weight
• Time of the year or season
• Extra services

What to Know About Popular Shipping Methods

Two methods of transport stand out as the best options for moving household goods to Costa Rica. You can choose between sea and land shipping.

Shipping Household Goods in Containers

A 20-square-foot container, considered one of the smaller sizes, is often enough to stuff all the contents of an average household. And if you don’t need that much space, you can opt for a Less Than Container Load or LCL shipping option. That means you can share the container space with another customer and reduce your expenses.

But it would be best to remember that shipping anything via ocean freight takes time. It’s the slowest shipping method after road and rail freight. That said, it’s an excellent option if you have plenty of time to schedule in advance.

You can also choose this option if you move close to a port or want a safer shipping process.

Shipping Household Goods via Land Freight

With land shipping, you have two choices. You can bring items into Costa Rica via freight trains or trucks. Just because you don’t want to take a long road trip doesn’t mean there aren’t drivers who will do it for you.

And given Costa Rica’s popularity among expats, you can quickly find moving trucks for the U.S. – Costa Rica route.

Should You Ship Household Goods to Costa Rica?

Few people relocate to Costa Rica just with clothes on their backs. Many want to bring useful household goods, appliances, and personal belongings. But what is worth shipping to Costa Rica, given the many customs duty taxes you may have to pay?

You can find much of what you need to furnish a home in Costa Rica. Thus, it’s tempting to leave some of your belongings behind, donate, or sell them before moving. But you may find that some of the appliances and electronics you need are more expensive in Costa Rica due to commercial import taxes.

Consider bringing your computer, phones, small kitchen appliances, and similar items with you. Furthermore, you may bring over-the-counter and prescription medication. 

As for furniture and other household items, you could elect to buy something new once you relocate to Costa Rica. Usually, it’s not always worth shipping unless you have a vintage or personalized item you can’t replace. 

Shipping With Experts Is the Best Option

Simplifying the moving process comes down to using professional international shippers to oversee and manage the transportation of your household goods. Experienced shippers and movers know how to pack various items, how to fill out the paperwork, and what customs expenses to pay.

They can also find the best transport method and route based on your unique requirements. If you want to take the same route as many other expats, planning your move in advance and coordinating with international shippers can make the process less stressful.

Thanksgiving has arrived and for many decades, it has been a holiday that has been celebrated greatly in Costa Rica given the large number of ex-pats living over here. Slowly but surely, the essence of the autumn harvest has been incorporated in many ‘Tico’s’ home but in a rather tropicalized fashion (fresh fruits & vegetables of the season).

If you are planning a visit to Costa Rica around these dates, we got you covered because there are many traditional Thanksgiving activities you can do. In the capital, San José, or popular beach towns like Jacó or Tamarindo, several restaurants have made it easy to enjoy a typical Thanksgiving dinner for example.

Roast turkey, stuffing, sweet potatoes, mashed potatoes, green bean casserole and of course, amazing apple pie is just a few of the staples that you will find for just about 20 US dollars. Some people even opt for a cheaper ‘Costa Rican’ version of the Thursday dinner if you will by substituting the turkey for chicken and buying some fresh sweet potatoes and herbs from the

farmer’s market to make a delightful stuffing. Also, another pro-tip if you are wanting to keep your costs on the low is to switch pumpkin pie for ‘ayote’, which is basically a squash that is similar to pumpkin in both flavor and color.

This November period is also great in terms of weather, with the rainy season coming to an end and the start of one of the lowest temperatures of the year (ranging from high 70s to low 80s). The breeze from the ocean and the beautiful food is just a perfect combination to enhance the celebration of the holiday with family and friends.

It’s important to remember that even though it is a national day in the US, it is not a paid holiday here in Costa Rica.

Undoubtably, with the amazing food experience, remember to keep an eye for online and store discounts for Black Friday and the shipping deals and discounts from Aerocasillas and Mailboxes in case you feel like buying something from US retailers.

Whether you want to spend November 24 th relaxed on the beach or zip-lining through the forest, there are plenty of options available to help you make of this day an unforgettable experience filled with thankfulness and appreciation.

As always, thank you for reading,

Properties in Costa Rica 🇨🇷

Costa Rica has been for a long time a destination that attracts millions of tourists on a regular basis and this year, it is no surprise that this beautiful country has been crowned as “The Most Desirable Country of 2022” in the Wanderlust Travel Awards taking place in the Tower of London. 

Received by William Rodríguez, Costa Rica’s Minister of Tourism, and other Costa Rican Tourism Institute representatives, this award is truly a reflection of the hard work that is put in year after year by all Costa Rican citizens (specially those involved in Touristic activities). In order to win the gold category for “best desirable country”, Costa Rica had to go past other big finalists such as Canada, Australia, New Zealand, United States, Japan, Peru, Jordan, and South Africa. To be involved in a ceremony hosted by one of UK’s most established travel magazines (Wanderlust) speaks highly of the way in which tourism is handled in the country, especially when it comes to Costa Rica’s position as a leader in responsible and sustainable practices. 

In fact, an important part of the ceremony was dedicated to highlight Costa Rica for being a pioneer in the field of ecotourism, knowing well that the development and implementation of these practices are essential to the world as a response to the ever-growing climate change issues we’re all facing. The discussion of these topics along with the back and forth that takes place in an event such as this ultimately benefits everyone, given that both Costa Rica and other countries implementing ecotourism can feed of each other’s trial and errors and hopefully strive for better and more successful practices. 

Costa Rica has now established itself as a distinguished place for traveling and through its years of experience it has developed a system that is now being properly rewarded in the international stage. Be it pristine beaches, more than 500.000 animal species, active volcanoes, or simply it’s amazing people, you can be sure that booking a flight and experiencing for yourself the wonders of the ‘Pura Vida’ lifestyle is a great vacation idea. 

As always, thank you for reading,

Properties in Costa Rica 🇨🇷

Photo: El Observador

References: 

1. TCRN Staff (Ed.) (2022, November 10). Costa Rica Won the Award for “The Most Desirable Country of 2022” in a Special Ceremony at London. Retrieved November 21, 2022, from https://thecostaricanews.com/costa-rica-won-the-award-for-the-most-desirable-country-of-2022-in-a-special-ceremony-at-london

November has arrived and this means that we are going to start witnessing the arrival of hundreds of thousands of beautiful olive ridley Turtles in the Ostional Wildlife Refuge shores of Costa Rica. Why are they arriving you ask? Well, ‘arribadas’ start to reach these sectors of Costa Rica in the beginning September until December due to its optimal conditions for nesting and laying their eggs. The incubation period lasts around 100 days in the dark warm sand and typically, these mesmerizing animals arrive at night and when they come, they come in volumes, with records that register over a hundred thousand turtles only in one night!

The process that these turtles have to go through is truly admirable and to experience their hard work in person is a sight in itself. To be able to witness such a spectacle, it is important to note that since 1984, this land has been protected by the Ostional Wildlife Refuge which helps preserve the 15 km of beach territory from poachers that plan to steal the eggs for commercial purposes. The protection and conservation of these animals is crucial and for that reason, tourist access is also restricted by the SINAC (National System of Conservation Areas) in order to avoid other problems such as the use of white flashlights or excessive noises that ultimately disorient the turtles and complicates their nesting process. 

But don’t worry, if you truly want to experience the turtle nesting in a respectful manner as a tourist, what you have to do is reserve with anticipation and contact one of the several guides that work with the SINAC to ensure the health and safety of the animals (remember: if you are calling from the US, the country number extension for Costa Rica is +506).

If you have the opportunity and are visiting the Guanacaste regions of Costa Rica, don’t miss out on the chance of seeing these wonderful scenes in person! 

 As always, thank you for reading and we’ll catch you in the next one. 

Properties in Costa Rica 🇨🇷

References

1. CostaRica.Org (Ed.). (2018, December 5). Playa Ostional en Guancaste Costa Rica. CostaRica.Org. Retrieved November 15, 2022, from https://costarica.org/es/playas/guanacaste/ostional/ 

The current United States and global economic market is having a rough time after the Covid pandemic and more importantly the increasing pressure of inflation and interest spikes. Needless to say, the housing market has also been affected by this context, with rising mortgages and inventory shortages making it truly hard to invest in a home in the United States.

Pros on the subject insist on the fact that elevated home prices are here to stay because of the combination of high demand and elevated mortgage rates, resulting in dreadful scenario for potential buyers.

The good news is that there are other investment options out there, more specially located abroad, in Central America.

We all know that this small country has a high touristic attraction but what about its housing options? Given the uncertainty and unrest regarding home investment in the US, Costa Rica has now become a more viable option, with places such as Guanacaste, Jacó, Atenas, Grecia and Dominical gaining lots of attraction as places for retiring comfortably at a discounted price (as low as USD $50,000 for a decent home in certain areas). Additionally, a huge plus for those looking to swoop a house in the Guanacaste region is the recently renovated Liberia airport, which allows travelers a more direct access to these locations. The key takeaway here is that buyers are now comparing similar beachfront estates in California and Costa Rica and are seeing a drastic difference in value, resulting in a noticeable shift towards investment in the Central America gem.

Also, quality of life here in Costa Rica is known to be a guarantee. With impeccable all year-round breezy climate, kind and loving people, lower home taxes, and of course, stupendous beaches only 45 minutes away from the capital, you won’t miss a thing once you arrive and settle up.

As always, thank you for reading, catch you guys in the next one.

Properties in Costa Rica 🏡🇨🇷

References:

1. Delmendo, Lalaine. (09/11/2019). Costa Rica’s thriving housing market. Retrieved 10/07/2022, from:  https://www.globalpropertyguide.com/Latin-America/Costa-Rica/Price-History
2. Popescu, Roxana. (03/20/2022). House Hunting in Costa Rica: Pools, Ponds and a Glassy Heart Near San José. 10/07/2022, from:   https://www.nytimes.com/2022/03/30/realestate/costa-rica-house-hunting.html

September 15^th is a special time for Ticos and Central America. What for, you ask? Well, this date marks the anniversary of the country’s independence, a very important period in its wonderful history. Dancing, school activities, and splendid food is enjoyed as a way of honoring the country’s most authentic patriotic traditions.

Even though it is a very fun and uniting time of the year, Costa Rica’s independence from Spain back in 1821 was not a simple affair, as a matter of fact, it was really until 1838 that Costa Rica became truly independent and that was when it parted ways with the Federation Republic of Central America.  Despite this, Costa Rican citizens still celebrate September 15^th and recognize the significance of Central America’s victory.  One of the most important traditions that unites these countries is in fact the Torch Run, starting September 9^th in Guatemala, where the Freedom Torch is carried throughout and arrives in Costa Rica to culminate the September 15^th Independence Day celebrations.

Parades around the Costa Rican territory are a must, specifically those performed by regional school students. Be it dance or raising the flag routines, the streets are filled with people, especially when it’s time to sing the beautiful national anthem (at precisely 6:00 pm). Of course, there are tons of traditional foods available, ranging from ‘Gallo Pinto’ to ‘Fried Yuca and Plantain’ or if you’re feeling something sweet, ‘Arroz con Leche’ or Rice Pudding. 🤤

All these celebrations are widely available and free to the public, so if you are planning a visit to Costa Rica, follow the beat of the drums and lyres on September 15th and come enjoy the Folkloric shows, typical dancing and music that best represent Costa Rica’s values and traditions. 🇨🇷

Thank you for reading, catch you in the next one.

– Properties in Costa Rica.