Properties in Costa Rica Blog

You’ve done it. You’ve traded your old life for something extraordinary – beach living in Costa Rica. Whether you’re a retiree who’s finally escaped the corporate grind, a digital nomad chasing the perfect work-life balance, or an expat ready for adventure, you’re about to discover what “pura vida” really means when you’re living it every single day.

But here’s the thing – moving to paradise isn’t just about posting sunset photos on Instagram (though you’ll definitely do that). It’s about completely reimagining how you want to spend your days, weeks, and years. The good news? You’ve got endless possibilities. The challenge? Figuring out how to make the most of this incredible opportunity.

Embrace the Pura Vida Rhythm (It’s Different Than You Think)

First things first – forget everything you think you know about productivity and schedules. Costa Rican beach life operates on what locals call “tico time,” and fighting it will only stress you out. Instead of checking emails at 6 AM, you might find yourself swimming before sunrise, watching howler monkeys swing through the trees during your coffee break, or planning your day around the tides.

The magic happens when you stop rushing and start flowing. Your new rhythm might look like morning surf sessions, afternoon siestas during the hottest part of the day, and evening walks along the shoreline. This isn’t laziness – it’s intelligent living that matches the natural environment you’ve chosen.

Find Your Perfect Beach Community Match

Not all Costa Rican beach towns are created equal, and choosing the right one for your lifestyle makes all the difference. Each has its own personality, and you’ll want to pick the one that matches yours.

If you’re social and love variety, Tamarindo’s your spot. This town buzzes with international cuisine, coworking spaces, and a thriving expat community. You’ll never run out of people to meet or restaurants to try. The nightlife’s energetic, and there’s always something happening.

Want the best of both worlds? Samara offers that sweet spot – small enough to walk everywhere but large enough for proper grocery stores, cafés, and restaurants. The naturally protected waters are perfect for swimming without worrying about dangerous currents.

Craving spiritual vibes and world-class surfing? Nosara’s calling your name. Famous for yoga retreats and consistently excellent waves, this town attracts people serious about both inner peace and outdoor adventure.

Need complete tranquility? Consider Playa Panama or Playa Matapalo. These spots offer modern amenities while maintaining that secluded, off-the-beaten-path feeling that makes you feel like you’ve discovered a secret.

Create New Daily Routines That Actually Stick

Living at the beach means your old routines probably won’t work anymore. And that’s fantastic news! You get to design days that actually make sense for your new environment and goals.

Most successful beach dwellers develop routines around the natural rhythms of coastal life. Mornings are golden – literally. The light’s incredible, the temperatures are comfortable, and the energy’s fresh. This is when locals swim, when the best surf happens, and when you’ll want to tackle anything requiring focus.

Your afternoon routine might include embracing the heat rather than hiding from it. Think beachfront lunch spots, afternoon snorkeling sessions, or exploring those hiking trails when the tourist crowds have retreated to air conditioning.

Evenings become social time. This is when families gather on the beaches, when the sunset-watching crowds appear, and when restaurants come alive with that perfect ocean breeze.

Connect With Local Culture (Beyond Tourist Activities)

Real beach life in Costa Rica means becoming part of the community, not just living alongside it. Start by learning some basic Spanish – even simple greetings and thank-yous will open doors and hearts. Many coastal towns offer Spanish classes specifically designed for expats and retirees.

Shop at local markets instead of just tourist-friendly supermarkets. You’ll discover incredible fresh produce, meet local vendors who become friends, and save serious money. Plus, you’ll start understanding how Costa Ricans approach food, family, and community.

Join local activities that interest you. Many beach towns have soccer leagues, volunteer conservation groups, or community gardening projects. These aren’t just activities – they’re your gateway to understanding how your new neighbors think, what they value, and how you can contribute.

Master the Practical Stuff (So You Can Focus on Living)

Let’s talk logistics. Most established beach towns now offer supermarkets, medical clinics, fiber-optic internet, and restaurants ranging from beachfront grills to sushi bars. This infrastructure makes remote work totally feasible while keeping your life comfortable.

Set up your essentials first: reliable internet if you work online, a relationship with a local clinic or doctor, and banking that works for your situation. Many expats recommend opening a local bank account early – it simplifies everything from paying utilities to getting better rates on services.

Transportation matters more than you might think. Many beach towns are perfectly walkable or bikeable for daily life, but having a plan for longer distances – whether that’s a reliable taxi driver, car rental relationships, or eventually buying a vehicle – prevents you from feeling trapped.

Navigate the Seasons Like a Local

Costa Rica’s beach life changes dramatically between dry and rainy seasons, and each has its magic. During dry months (December through April), you’ll experience the social side of coastal life. Towns buzz with activity, beaches fill with families, and the energy’s infectious.

But don’t write off rainy season (May through November). This is when you’ll see Costa Rica’s incredible natural beauty without the crowds. Rain usually comes in afternoon downpours, leaving mornings and evenings clear. Many longtime expats actually prefer this season – it’s greener, cooler, and more introspective.

Use seasonal changes as opportunities to explore different aspects of your new life. Dry season might mean more beach socializing and water sports, while rainy season could be perfect for learning new skills, diving deeper into hobbies, or taking those Spanish classes.

Embrace Mindful Living (It Happens Naturally Here)

Something magical happens when you live steps from the ocean. The constant sound of waves, the endless horizon, and the rhythm of tides naturally slow down your mental pace. Many beach residents find themselves becoming more mindful without even trying.

Take advantage of this natural mindfulness boost. Morning beach walks become moving meditation. Sunset watching isn’t just pretty – it’s a daily reminder to pause and appreciate the moment. Even routine activities like grocery shopping or checking email feel different when you can see the ocean from your window.

This environment also makes you more aware of natural cycles. You’ll start noticing moon phases because they affect tides. You’ll pay attention to weather patterns because they impact your daily activities. This connection to natural rhythms often leads to better sleep, reduced stress, and a general sense of being more grounded.

Build Your New Social Circle

Beach life attracts interesting people from around the world, and building friendships here often happens more naturally than in traditional suburban or city environments. Shared experiences – watching incredible sunsets, dealing with tropical weather, navigating cultural differences – create fast bonds.

Look for expat groups, but don’t limit yourself to them. Many beach towns have Facebook groups for residents, weekly meetups at local bars or restaurants, or organized activities like beach volleyball or book clubs. The key is showing up consistently and being genuinely interested in others’ stories.

Remember that your new neighbors come from incredible diverse backgrounds. That retired teacher from Canada might become your Spanish conversation partner. The German couple who opened a café could introduce you to the best hiking spots. The Costa Rican family next door might teach you more about local culture than any guidebook ever could.

Make the Most of Your Second Act

Living at the beach in Costa Rica isn’t just a change of scenery – it’s a chance to redefine what your life looks like. Whether you’re 35 or 75, you’ve given yourself permission to prioritize happiness, adventure, and authenticity over convention.

Take time to reflect on what this transition means for you. What aspects of your old life do you want to keep? What do you want to leave behind permanently? What new dreams can you pursue now that you have more time, better weather, and fewer distractions?

Many successful beach transplants say their biggest regret is not making the move sooner. They wished they’d spent less time planning and worrying and more time actually living this dream. You’re already here – now make it count.

Your beach life in Costa Rica isn’t just about where you live now; it’s about who you’re becoming. Every morning you wake up to ocean sounds, every afternoon you have the choice to dive into warm water, and every evening you get to watch one of the world’s most spectacular sunsets from your new home.

That’s not just a change of address. That’s a completely different way of being alive. Welcome to your new life – now go live it to the fullest.

Ready to make Costa Rica’s beach life your reality? Explore our oceanfront properties and beachfront homes to find your perfect slice of paradise.

If you’re a remote worker or raising a family and dreaming of trading your current life for something better, Costa Rica’s Central Valley might just be your perfect match. This isn’t just another “expat paradise” pitch — we’re talking about a region that’s become the economic and cultural heart of Costa Rica while offering everything modern families and digital nomads actually need.

The Central Valley delivers what coastal areas can’t: world-class infrastructure, affordable living costs, and that perfect spring-like climate you’ve been craving. No more sweating through Zoom calls or worrying about your kids’ education quality.

Why Remote Workers Are Flocking to the Central Valley

Here’s the game-changer: the Central Valley offers reliable internet, modern amenities, and professional communities without the premium price tag of beachfront living. You’re not sacrificing connectivity for paradise — you’re getting both.

The region serves as Costa Rica’s business hub, which means you’ll find co-working spaces, networking opportunities, and a thriving expat professional community. Unlike remote beach towns where you might be the only person working normal hours, the Central Valley operates on a schedule that actually aligns with North American business hours.

Remote workers are choosing the Central Valley because:

• Internet infrastructure rivals major US cities
• Professional rental market provides steady housing options
• Lower costs than comparable US or European cities
• Access to international hospitals and services
• Proximity to San José’s business district for occasional meetings

The Big Three: San José, Escazú, and Santa Ana

These three areas form the premium triangle for expat families and professionals. Escazú and Santa Ana particularly shine for families — we’re talking prestigious bilingual schools, world-class healthcare, and luxury gated communities that rival anything you’d find in Florida or California.

Escazú has earned its reputation as the “Beverly Hills of Costa Rica.” You’ll find high-end condos, international restaurants, and shopping centers that stock everything from organic groceries to tech gadgets. The infrastructure here is exceptional — reliable power, fast internet, and well-maintained roads.

Santa Ana offers similar amenities with a slightly more residential feel. It’s perfect for families who want luxury amenities without the urban intensity. Both areas provide vibrant business environments that support long-term property appreciation and rental opportunities.

San José remains the urban center where you’ll find the most job opportunities, cultural activities, and city conveniences. While some areas require careful selection for safety, the right neighborhoods offer city living with all the professional networking you’d expect from a capital city.

Hidden Gems: Western Valley Communities

Here’s where things get really interesting for budget-conscious families and remote workers. Grecia, Atenas, San Ramón, and Sarchí offer the Central Valley lifestyle at significantly lower prices than the Greater Metropolitan Area.

Grecia and San Ramón are experiencing explosive growth — some of the fastest-growing areas in the entire country. Real estate professionals are predicting strong returns with solid resale value and rapid appreciation potential.

These Western Valley towns deliver:

• Significantly lower cost of living compared to Escazú and Santa Ana
• Steady urban growth with new residential developments
• Excellent quality of life with small-town charm
• Easy connectivity to San José via improved highways
• Growing expat communities for social connections

Atenas deserves special mention — it’s been recognized for having one of the world’s best climates. It’s perfect for families who want consistent, comfortable weather year-round.

Infrastructure That Actually Works

Let’s talk about what really matters for remote workers and families: does stuff actually work?

The answer is yes. The Central Valley features well-maintained roads, reliable healthcare facilities, quality schools, and consistent utilities. You’re not dealing with the infrastructure challenges that plague some other expat destinations.

Recent improvements have made connectivity even better:

• Route 1 (Bernardo Soto Freeway) expansion improved access to western communities
• Reliable internet infrastructure comparable to major US cities
• International hospitals in multiple locations
• Bilingual schools with US and European curriculum standards

For remote workers specifically, you’ll find:

• Fiber optic internet in most areas
• Reliable electricity with backup systems
• Professional co-working spaces
• International shipping and courier services
• Banking services that work with US and European accounts

Real Estate Pricing: What You Actually Pay

Let’s get specific about costs, because that’s what you really want to know.

Central Valley Pricing Breakdown (approximate ranges):

— Escazú / Santa Ana
Price per m²: $1,000–$1,500
Monthly rent: $800–$1,500+
Home purchase range: $150,000–$400,000+

— Western Valley (Grecia, Atenas, San Ramón, Sarchí)
Price per m²: $600–$1,000
Monthly rent: $400–$800
Home purchase range: $60,000–$200,000

— San José (select areas)
Price per m²: $800–$1,200
Monthly rent: $500–$1,000
Home purchase range: $80,000–$250,000

Climate That Doesn’t Drain You

Forget what you think you know about tropical weather. The Central Valley offers year-round spring-like conditions that many long-term residents prefer over coastal humidity.

The temperature stays consistently comfortable — around 70–80°F (21–27°C) during the day and 60–70°F (16–21°C) at night. No more cranking the air conditioning all day or dealing with oppressive humidity during video calls.

This temperate climate provides several practical advantages:

• Lower electricity bills
• Comfortable outdoor activities year-round
• Better sleep quality
• Easier maintenance on electronics and furniture
• A more productive work environment

Investment Opportunities That Make Sense

Rental income potential is strong across the Central Valley, especially near San José where professional demand remains consistent. You’re looking at potential returns from steady long-term rentals to professionals and expat families.

The region offers multiple investment strategies:

• Professional rental properties
• Short-term vacation rentals
• Development opportunities in growing communities
• Commercial real estate in expanding business districts

Properties with views, good service access, and strong connectivity will be most in demand through 2026 and beyond.

Making Your Move: Practical Next Steps

Before you buy anything, rent for at least a year. This gives remote workers and families time to experience different communities, test internet reliability, and understand local dynamics.

Smart approach:

1. Research school options
2. Test internet speeds
3. Explore healthcare options
4. Connect with expat groups
5. Consider commute times to San José

The Central Valley offers a rare combination of affordability, infrastructure, opportunity, and long-term growth. You’re not just buying property — you’re investing in a sustainable lifestyle.

Got $200K and your eye on Costa Rica’s coast? Here’s the fast, no-fluff breakdown: beach condos keep it simple and affordable; beach houses trade ease for max control and upside. Pick the path that fits your budget, timeline, and how hands-on you want to be.

Beach Condos: Quick Take

Why they’re easy to own

• Lower buy-in: $100K-$300K is common (about $700–$1,500/m²).
• HOA does the heavy lifting: security, landscaping, pools, common-area repairs.
• Strong traveler appeal: amenities like pools, gyms, and concierge boost bookings.

What to watch

• Fixed fees: HOAs typically run $200–$800/month and hit cash flow.
• Less control: renovations and rental rules go through the HOA.
• Slower appreciation: you don’t own the land, so growth skews moderate.

Beach Houses: Quick Take

Why they can win big

• Higher rates: families and groups pay $300–$1,000+ per night in hot spots like Tamarindo and Manuel Antonio.
• You own the land: appreciation potential is stronger when land is scarce.
• Total flexibility: add a deck, outdoor kitchen, or a new suite to push ADR and occupancy.

What to watch

• Bigger buy-in: think $400K–$1M+ for quality beachfront.
• Ongoing upkeep: salt, storms, and pools mean 3–5% of property value per year in maintenance.
• Higher insurance and legal nuance: $5K–$15K/year is common; maritime zone rules require expert counsel.

Head-to-Head: Fast Facts

Where Each Shines

• Guanacaste (Tamarindo, Flamingo): top demand, high rates, strong competition and pricing.
• Central Pacific (Jacó, Manuel Antonio): year-round occupancy, premium pricing.
• Southern Pacific (Dominical, Uvita): lower entry prices, growth market with upside if you’re patient.

Bottom Line + Next Steps

• Choose condos if you want low hassle, steady 4–6% returns, and an easy first step into the market.
• Choose houses if you’ve got $400K+, a 10-year horizon, and you want to maximize income and appreciation.
• Power move: start with a condo, learn the market, then roll into a house for bigger upside.

Ready to match a property to your strategy? Browse our current beachfront listings, or contact our team for tailored guidance based on your budget and goals.

Most countries barely mention climate change in textbooks. Costa Rica totally flipped education to focus on the environment. This tiny nation has 6% of world’s biodiversity in just a tiny patch of Earth. They’ve mixed nature into every school subject.

Other places do occasional eco field trips. Costa Rican schools blend nature into math, language, history, and science. Kids learn ecosystems as easily as times tables.

Costa Rica’s Unique Approach to Environmental Education

The Costa Rica education system is super different. Since the 90s, they’ve stopped treating nature as just another subject. They use it to teach everything else. This wasn’t random. A small country with limited stuff realized early they needed to save resources, not use them up.

Education Minister Garnier changed things to focus on “learning through nature, not just about it.” Teachers now plan different lessons. Math kids calculate forest growth. Language classes read and write about local nature.

Students stuck on tough eco projects sometimes need a hand. Buy homework help services can guide them through tricky stats while they focus on the environmental parts.

Nature isn’t just in books. Schools rebuilt spaces as living labs. About 64% of Costa Rican schools now have gardens, compost, or rain collectors that students actually run. These aren’t just for show—kids learn from them daily.

Key Elements of the Environmental Curriculum

What makes environmental education programs pop is their local focus. They don’t teach abstract global stuff. Costa Rican schools focus on nearby ecosystems. Beach schools study turtles and oceans. Mountain schools learn about cloud forests.

This local angle makes kids care more. The teaching follows the “near-to-far” idea—start with what kids can touch before going bigger. By age 12, most Costa Rican kids can name tons of local plants and animals. They know how these connect to each other.

The curriculum includes:

• Hands-on nature surveys of school grounds
• Community conservation projects
• Problem-solving focused on local eco issues
• Using indigenous knowledge about nature
• Regular trips to protected areas

Students wrestling with complex eco papers can get help from EssayPay.com. It helps organize research while they develop their own ideas.

The Education Ministry created simple eco skills for each grade. Third graders learn basic ecology. Sixth graders run small conservation projects. High schoolers often create serious environmental monitoring that actually helps national conservation.

Success Stories and Measurable Outcomes

The sustainable schools Costa Rica program gets amazing results beyond just eco awareness. A 2021 study found these schools scored 23% higher overall than traditional ones. Science and math jumped the most, but even language improved.

Success stories are everywhere. At Las Nubes School, sixth-graders found nasty water pollution. They researched fixes and convinced local government to improve things. They used math, chemistry, and civics to solve a real problem. This creates confident kids who take action.

The program has created real impacts:

• 87% of these schools cut water use by 30%
• 76% now separate and recycle waste
• 62% grow food for school meals
• 41% started community conservation projects

The coolest part? Families of these students adopt 35% more conservation habits at home. Kids basically become eco teachers for their parents. Talk about role reversal!

Challenges and Future Developments

Despite the wins, eco-friendly education faces real roadblocks. Rural schools often lack basic resources. Rich city schools have better eco education than poor country schools. Some remote schools still need basic teaching stuff.

Teacher training is tough too. Teachers need to know multiple subjects and hands-on methods. The Ministry offers training, but 22% of teachers feel they can’t fully teach the eco curriculum.

Tech brings opportunities and headaches. Green learning initiatives now use digital tools to track nature and analyze data. But the digital divide is brutal. Rich urban kids have better tech access than rural ones.

Some folks wonder if all this nature focus hurts other subjects. But tests show Costa Rican kids do as well or better than traditional students. Plus they crush ecological knowledge and problem-solving.

Future plans focus on connecting with other countries. Costa Rica started swapping students with other Central American schools. Kids compare eco challenges across borders. These programs show that nature doesn’t care about country lines.

Costa Rica’s model shows how to weave nature into learning. You can’t copy it exactly everywhere, but the main idea—using local environments to teach all subjects—could change schools worldwide. They’ve created a system that preps kids not just for tests, but for the messy eco problems they’ll face their whole lives.

Author: John J Gregg

The rainy season in Costa Rica generally spans from May to November. This time of year is marked by frequent rainfall, often manifesting as afternoon showers or thunderstorms. Despite the rain, the Green Season offers several benefits for visitors:

1. Lush Scenery: The landscapes transform into vibrant, green vistas with thriving rainforests and abundant wildlife.
2. Lower Prices: Many hotels and tours provide discounts during this period, making it a more cost-effective time to visit.
3. Fewer Crowds: Popular tourist spots are less crowded, offering a more peaceful experience.
4. Wildlife Viewing: Certain animals, like sea turtles, are more active and easier to spot during the Green Season.
5. Surfing: The Pacific Coast sees larger swells, creating excellent conditions for surfers.

Although some areas may experience heavy rainfall, especially in October, mornings are often clear and sunny, allowing for numerous outdoor activities. The Caribbean side of Costa Rica typically enjoys more consistent weather and can be a good option during the Green Season.

Photo by Pexels

Costa Rica attracts our attention for many reasons. These include its magnificent nature, diverse cultures, and friendly people. This large Central American country, bordering the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean Sea, offers a variety of opportunities for anyone considering it as a place of residence. From students looking for higher education to young professionals seeking career advancement. At the same time, it is also attractive to families looking for a better place to raise their children. In Costa Rica, every demographic group will find something to attract them to stay and never leave.

Costa Rica for Students

Benefits of Studying

Many students consider Costa Rica to be an ideal place for higher education. Costa Rican universities are famous for their quality of education. Also, they cooperate with universities abroad. Thanks to the friendly environment, students can develop their skills in peace. Besides, the vibrant and colorful culture makes studying even more exciting. The incredible landscapes make them want to explore this country deeper. And to enjoy life to the fullest.

That’s why students often don’t have enough time to keep up with everything and remain successful in their academic studies. This is where specialized services come in handy. Helping to write high quality research papers and essays. Among the proven and most professional ones, Edubirdie writes essays that will meet all the requirements. Namely, they will be structured, literate, and meaningful. Professional writers of such services will always provide students with qualified assistance. Thus, students can keep up with everything they have planned and enjoy life in Costa Rica as well as studying at the universities we will discuss below.

Universidad Nacional 

It is known for its emphasis on research and science. 

Universidad de Costa Rica

 It is the largest and most prestigious in Costa Rica. It offers a wide range of programs including humanities, science and engineering.

Instituto Nacional de Aprendizaje

This institute specializes in practical vocational programs, such as repair and construction. 

TEC (Instituto Tecnológico de Costa Rica) 

It is famous for its professional training in engineering, technology and science.

Instituto Tecnológico de Costa Rica

This institute specializes in computer science and technology. It also cooperates with numerous international universities.

Costa Rica for Young Professionals

Labor Market and Career Opportunities

Costa Rica is a rapidly developing country. Due to this, it offers a large number of opportunities for young professionals. 

• Costa Rica promotes business development, which attracts young entrepreneurs. 
• The country is open to foreign professionals and supports work visas for specialists. 
• The development of the environmental technology sector attracts professionals who want to work on projects aimed at preserving nature and creating a balanced environment.
• Costa Rica is a popular tourist destination. Young professionals can develop a career in the hospitality and tourism industry.
• The country also invests in education and research. 
• Costa Rica also attracts international corporations, which creates opportunities to work in large companies and develop a career in global business.

Costa Rica for Families

• It is famous for its friendly and hospitаble people. This makes it an ideal destination for families. The general atmosphere is conducive to the preservation of family values and strong familial ties. And the work environment in this country is rated as more favorable for work-life balance.

• The education and healthсare systems in the country are of a high standard. A large number of public and private schools offer quality education. Medical facilities take care of the residents’ health.

• The country is also famous for its entertainment, where families can enjoy their vacations together. 

Below we’ll talk more about entertainments. After all, they are certainly related to the country’s incredible nature.

The Natural Beauty of Costa Rica

It fascinates everyone who visits this country for the first time. Mountains, beaches, rainforests, and a huge number of natural reserves make this country an ideal place for outdoor activities and ecotourism.

Excursions to nature reserves. Here you can see majestic national parks, rainforests, volcanoes, and many other natural wonders.

Outdoor enthusiasts will discover zip-lining (skydiving on ropes), rafting, cycling, and hiking.

Water activities. A large number of rivers and lakes provide opportunities for fishing and kayaking.

Ecotourism. Іt is famous for its rich exotic flora and fauna. 

Gastronomic tourism. Costa Rica offers delicious cuisine, including traditional dishes. These are such as Gallopinto, Casado and other delicacies.

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As we wrap up our journey through Costa Rica, let’s emphasize once again that this country offers something special for every demographic. Its attraction lies in the diversity and wealth of opportunities it offers. Regardless of your age, interests or needs. From students to young professionals and families, Costa Rica impresses with its diversity and capabilities. Its natural beauty and diverse culture make it an attractive place to live and develop. Where every day is a new adventure. 

Cory Shilling

Traveler and researcher of interesting places on the planet. Author of a blog about the unique characteristics of various countries. Exploring new horizons, she describes them in her essays.

Photos: Freepik 1, 2 and 3.

Why is Costa Rica a favored destination for Hollywood stars, you may think? Beyond its captivating flora, fauna, lush rainforests, and verdant landscapes, the country offers a retreat from the spotlight, allowing individuals to reconnect with themselves amidst the allure of beaches, waterfalls, volcanoes, and more. The Central American nation has evolved into an exclusive vacation destination favored by world-renowned figures, including Demi Moore, Sharon Stone, Catherine Zeta-Jones and her spouse Michael Douglas, Selena Gomez, George Clooney, Rafa Nadal, Leonardo DiCaprio, Mel Gibson, Zac Efron, Miley Cyrus, Beyoncé, Jay-Z, Chris Hemsworth, Matt Damon, and even the beloved characters from The Simpsons.

Last week, eagle-eyed onlookers at the airport spotted none other than Kevin Costner arriving to Costa Rica in the company of a group of friends, looking to enjoy the wonders of the country for vacation. Throughout his career, Kevin Costner has received critical acclaim for his acting, directing, and producing work. He has won several awards, including Academy Awards, Golden Globe Awards, and Emmy Awards, and has remained a prominent figure in Hollywood for his contributions to the film industry and his versatility in various roles.

Ariel Ortiz Hinojosa, an airport staff member, recognized Costner and approached him enthusiastically for a cherished photo opportunity, sharing his encounter with Trivisión 36 and describing Costner’s response as warm and gracious. Kevin Costner’s cinematic journey boasts landmark roles in legendary films, including “Dances with Wolves,” “The Bodyguard,” and “Field of Dreams”, and it comes to no surprise that he came to Costa Rica to get away from the frenetic Hollywood lifestyle.

As a California native, he continues to be a revered figure in Hollywood, known for his consistent dedication to storytelling, whether in front of or behind the camera. His enduring commitment to the craft positions him as one of the true icons of American cinema and yet another one that choses Costa Rica as a destination for some time off.

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.

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/ 

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.