MauroN
Colombian expat in Costa Rica
Forum posts
212
Contacts
12
About me
Colombian
Lives in Palmares
Registration: 08 July 2015
Looking for ways to sell property near Dominical Costa Rica, advice? by casacontainervillageresort
Hi all,I’m looking for guidance from folks who’ve sold in Costa Rica (or helped others do it).I own a lot in Dominical area, about 7 minutes to the beach and after 2 years listing with a couple of agencies, I’m not seeing traction. ...
Les Nuñez can help you, he's a 20+ years realtor in San José with FirstRealtyCr.com Read More
SIN number for Costa Rican Bank by wanxke
Hi just about to open a bank account in CR and my lawyer is asking for Canadian SIN for the banking documents. Has anybody else had to give out this information?
I opened a bank account 15 days into the country as a tourist. when I had to bring in money from overseas I went to the bank and fill in the paperwork, but no lawyer was involved. Read More
Importing Electric vehicles by jochsenfeld59
Has anyone imported an electric vehicle? We would like to get an idea of the cost of taxes. The cost will depend on whether we ship or not.
@lgoodwin from any where. https://news.outlierlegal.com/2022/05/16/costa-rica-extends-benefits-to-electric-vehicles-until-2035-including-used-cars/ Read More
Importing Electric vehicles by jochsenfeld59
Has anyone imported an electric vehicle? We would like to get an idea of the cost of taxes. The cost will depend on whether we ship or not.
Hybrid or electric vehicles have ZERO import tax. However, if you have a full-blown gas or diesel engine, there is a spot of good news. When you first get your car into Costa Rica, you'll have up to three months to pay taxes and get the proper ... Read More
Receiving salaries or monies from USA by Teri Sanders
Im living in Costa Rica and would like to work remotely from here for an American company. I dont want to get my salary via PayPal. I'm wondering how others in this situation get their pay?
@Teri Sanders Hello, Teri. I've been working freelance here in CR for the past 14 years, I use Payoneer as my US bank (second story bank, which does not receive but invoiced deposits). I could invite you to join it (I will get $25 for the ... Read More
Why do so many people leave Costa Rica after moving there? by samramon
This question is often asked because while there are no absolute numbers it seems to be generally agreed that 30-60% of people move back to their home country within the first 5 years or so. I hope the moderators will allow this discussion because ...
Tell you what, it is a good thing you moved out. Costa Rica ain't for you, definetely. I've been here16 years, never have had a close encounter with accidents, my do and my neighbours dogs bark to warn extrangers that they (the dogs) are ... Read More
Building a house by joelrobin
Is it a good idea to buy property now and build in two or three years from now in Costa Rica? Or should we rent for a while and buy a house already built?
Hi. It depends if you hire a construction company or an architect or a "maestro de obra" (the guy hired by the formers to build), if you hire a maestro, you would need an architect to sign the paperwork, but it's cheaper than he/she ... Read More
Hello!
Samara and Carrillo, not too crazy about those towns, although Carrillo beach is nicer than Samara. If you are not going to be hired as an employee, I am sure you can do any kind of freelance work, the thing is the amount of time you get you to ... Read More
Beach family base for 6 months? by RubyD75
Hi all, I am new to this forum. After some big life changes recently I am planning to move to CR for between 6 and 8 months from next October 2020 with my two young children - aged 6 and 4. I will be on my own so this is pretty scary. I am setting ...
Regarding your children, I guarantee that in 6 months they will learn Spanish better than you will, enroll them in a private school or a public school (will accept them even if you are a tourist, I know it from experience). I recommend Playas del ... Read More
Costa Rica....Orrrrrrr......(warning...long) by mcompton1973
I will post this in a couple of places to get a variety of responses. I am 46...buisiness owner in Oklahoma...I am by no means rich...but we do OK. I am also a partially disabled USMC vet. Wife and I moved to Oklahoma about 6.5 years ago. We ...
Fist thing: living on any beach in CR is more expensive than living elsewhere in the country. Second, although there are many very nice and secluded beach towns, medical assistance is difficult, most time the doctors in those towns will refer you to ... Read More
Dog training/boarding recommendations? by workinghardly
We were hoping to have our dog trained and boarded for a week or so while we figure out our logistics and settle in a little. He has some basics down so more advanced training would be ideal, especially with all the new stimulus of an exotic ...
In Grecia, Alajuela, Victor Garcia of K9 La Garza Adriestamiento, *** I've seen many dogs trained by him, pretty good. Read More
Best cities to live in Costa Rica by Julien
Hi, Its not always easy to decide in which area to settle in when moving to Costa Rica. According to you, what are the best cites to live in? Which regions offer most of the job opportunities, a good quality of life, an affordable cost of ...
Hi. Hard to tell you about job opportunities not knowing what you are looking for. I'd say San Jose is the largest job market you'd find, although if you are in the tourism business the Pacific would be the place to look for a job. Regarding ... Read More
Caretaker, property manager by Xian Hunter
I'm a US citizen married to a tica. Live in Costa, work in the states. I've been coming and going for over 15 year's. I'm a Certified arborist by trade, yet have worked in almost all trades and can do it all. I'm looking for ...
Xian, Facebook, Craiglist Costa RIca and Encuentra24.com are some of the websites where you will find home owners looking for a property manager/caretaker. I have seen many. Read More
Looking for advice about moving to Liberia, Guanacaste by apenate
Hello expats! I am looking for some advice. I have a job offer which requires me to relocate to Costa Rica, specifically to Liberia. I currently live in Buenos Aires, Argentina. I've been doing some research and unfortunately I can only find ...
One of my daughter was born in Liberia, we lived in Playas del Coco, about 30 miles away. No, Liberia does not have an underground subway, doubt it will ever have one, it does have several banks, several malls, not big though, not a beach town, ... Read More
Retiring to Costa Rica soon considering Carribean Coast
Hi. I'm sure on your budget you can find a nice house and pay for services, including wifi. You do need to know if any or all the companies offering internet/cable/cell services do service the house where you are going to rent. In my case, I do ... Read More
oral surgeon/prosthodontist in San jose /area by klgosnell
Looking for recommendations for experienced/certified? clinician (s) who routinely perform sinus lift/graft surgical procedures in preparation for implants. Seems much of the info I can find on the internet.. ( dental tourism 3rd party people) is ...
Very nice place, not too expensive. Read More
oral surgeon/prosthodontist in San jose /area by klgosnell
Looking for recommendations for experienced/certified? clinician (s) who routinely perform sinus lift/graft surgical procedures in preparation for implants. Seems much of the info I can find on the internet.. ( dental tourism 3rd party people) is ...
Hi. I have a friend who runs a recovery home in Roshmoser, near the US embassy. She has been running it for over 9 years, she knows many doctors. Can you post your email/phone number to give it to her? Send it through private message. Read More
Purchasing in a development by Justagirl8870
Please share your tips and advice for buying homes in developments in Costa Rica.
What a nightmare, I am all familiar with those problems. Nicoya is full of crooked lawyers who will jump from Plaintiff to Defendant if the money's right. They will extend all court appointments so the Plaintiff gives up or the expenses become ... Read More
toilet/plumbing by bermarsh
Hi. Considering a move to Costa Rica's Central Valley. I've been reading lots, and we've visited as tourists, but one issue has not been able to be resolved online: In private homes is it common to be able to flush toilet tissue? (Papel ...
I never "dump" anything on other people's bathrooms, ever. So respect's kept. Read More
Properties in Playa Hermosa or Playa el Coco by psfiguer
Hi costa rica expat community, My name is Pamela, I'm from Santiago, Chile. Me and my husband have the idea of going to live in Costa Rica next year. We like it very much for its climate and lifestyle. We are a young marriage, we ...
Pura Vida. I mean, thank you. Read More
Is a car necessary? by bermarsh
How good and widely available is public transport/buses? I have travelled around Mexico, Central and South America using buses, but not for day-to-day transportation. I'm thinking of if I reside in a town such as Grecia or San Ramon.
Yeah. I am "ciudadano de Oro" And I haven't experienced any hassle buying cheaper fare to San Jose or Alajuela. It takes maybe one more minute for the dispatcher to write down the id number if the scanner does not work. As it is, one ... Read More
toilet/plumbing by bermarsh
Hi. Considering a move to Costa Rica's Central Valley. I've been reading lots, and we've visited as tourists, but one issue has not been able to be resolved online: In private homes is it common to be able to flush toilet tissue? (Papel ...
LOL. I still nod, toilet paper was made to dissolve. That custom is a 19th century custom and anti-hygienic, it is a bad custom. In the latest rental I lived in Palmares I was told not to flush, the house is very modern with 3 bathrooms, never had ... Read More
Overseas Properties sold by Recap Investments
Gracias. I mean, thank you. Read More
Properties in Playa Hermosa or Playa el Coco by psfiguer
Hi costa rica expat community, My name is Pamela, I'm from Santiago, Chile. Me and my husband have the idea of going to live in Costa Rica next year. We like it very much for its climate and lifestyle. We are a young marriage, we ...
Where do I go to send a private message? Read More
Properties in Playa Hermosa or Playa el Coco by psfiguer
Hi costa rica expat community, My name is Pamela, I'm from Santiago, Chile. Me and my husband have the idea of going to live in Costa Rica next year. We like it very much for its climate and lifestyle. We are a young marriage, we ...
No llegó la direccion, escríbela sin el signo de arroba, en su lugar usa "AT" o "EN", y escribe "punto" en lugar del signo. ie: ***,creo que asi funciona. Mi tel ****, por WA Read More
Properties in Playa Hermosa or Playa el Coco by psfiguer
Hi costa rica expat community, My name is Pamela, I'm from Santiago, Chile. Me and my husband have the idea of going to live in Costa Rica next year. We like it very much for its climate and lifestyle. We are a young marriage, we ...
Hola. Vivimos en Playa del Coco 7 años y 2 en Playa Hermosa. Cuando viviamos en Playa Hermosa debiamos ir al Coco a hacer compras, a poner gasolina, al medico del Seguro, etc. Playa Hermosa es mu "laid back", casas regadas aqui y ... Read More
Divorcing in Costa Rica by Diksha
Hello everyone, Reaching the decision to seek divorce can be hard. Filing the papers as an expat in Costa Rica can be as taxing since a good grasp of legislations is needed and the process can prove to be tedious. Where and how do you apply ...
Hi. It's hard to help you out since I haven't divorced here, But I assume that if you are legally married in CR you would have to use an attorney to dissolve the marriage; if you were married overseas, it doesn't count as a marriage here ... Read More
Is a car necessary? by bermarsh
How good and widely available is public transport/buses? I have travelled around Mexico, Central and South America using buses, but not for day-to-day transportation. I'm thinking of if I reside in a town such as Grecia or San Ramon.
LOL, you are half right Surffeaver. I lived 2 years in Playa Real (no bus goes there, only to Matapalo), 9 years in Playas del Coco (no urban bus there), so it is a hassle, not to say a nightmare to move without your own transportation. But here in ... Read More
Is a car necessary? by bermarsh
How good and widely available is public transport/buses? I have travelled around Mexico, Central and South America using buses, but not for day-to-day transportation. I'm thinking of if I reside in a town such as Grecia or San Ramon.
I do not know about Grecia, but San Ramon has a good bus service. Some areas are serviced more regularly than others. I live 6 kms from SR and the only time gap is between 12 and 2 pm, last bus my way at 7 pm. If you are over 65 urban fare's ... Read More
toilet/plumbing by bermarsh
Hi. Considering a move to Costa Rica's Central Valley. I've been reading lots, and we've visited as tourists, but one issue has not been able to be resolved online: In private homes is it common to be able to flush toilet tissue? (Papel ...
Yes, of course. There isn't any other way to do it, no matter what people say about clogging drainage and the sort. The custom not to flush the toilet paper and instead throw it in the waste basket is so anti hygienic it doesn't deserve a ... Read More
Declare a baby by Shaly999
Hi! I am just wondering once you give birth in Costa Rica (American citizen - not Costa Rican Mom), how much time (weeks?) do you have to declare the baby? Is it true that Costa Rica takes the baby if he is not declared before a ...
I looked at the Costa Rica Birth Registration (http://www.tse.go.cr/pdf/ifed/registro_nacimientos_costa_rica.pdf) and Art. 25 on the first page reads: "Dentro del término de cuarenta días de nacida una persona debe hacerse ... Read More
May Retire To Costa Rica Soon by jrickpick
Planning on making a one month visit to Costa Rica to see if I really want to retire there. Any suggestions or advice to offer for my adventure? Thx Rick
The good thing about Costa Rica is that life is very mellow here, it doesn't mean there isn't crime,like every where else. Panama is expensive, Nicaragua is the cheapest but politically unstable, I think. Colombia is cheaper than CR or ... Read More
Paying voluntary insurance as a resident by Sallyrose
Does anyone out there know how to do this online? Thanks!
I'm sure BAC has a way to accept payments. I do mine through BCR, choose CCSS, "Asegurado Voluntario" and my residence cedula. No problem Read More
Safe living alone
Come visit before August and before making the major move as koklerias suggests, there's plenty of time to decide where to live, beaches, plains or mountains. Read More
Children integration in a new school in Costa Rica by Bhavna
Hello everyone, Moving abroad can be particularly hard on children. For any parent planning a move to Costa Rica, it is of utmost importance to make sure they do everything in their power to make sure their childrens transition is as smooth as ...
Hello. For me, the best way to prepare a child for a new school, place or person is describing the place/person before the child experiences it himself/herself. I practice that approach every time my children are to have a new experience. I noticed ... Read More
Cell Phone service by PaulieMac
Moving to Costa Rica next week for 2-3 year period. Would like to keep US number. Currently have Verizon but need to change to a more economical carrier and method of having cell and data in CR. I've researched both Ting and Google Fi - has ...
I will put my grain of salt: I've had an ICE cell phone for over 13 years; I started with a paid account, used it for 10 years, switched to a prepaid one when I felt I did not need the other one. The service isn't bad but the tariffs are ... Read More
Is it possible to get this in Costa Rica? by erille
Hi, Me and my girlfriend have been trying to figure out where we should live now for a while which has proven to be really difficult. Costa Rica is, however, a very promising candidat and we're planning on visiting in January to see how we like ...
Hi. Costa Rica isn't a cheap place to live, but it is a nice place to live. A good furnished place on the beach towns starts at $600, some beach towns more expensive than others: Tamarindo. Brasilito, Conchal are expensive, Playas del Coco, ... Read More
Contact for finding long term rental in Costa Rica by montanafamily
My family (wife and 3 young children) are planning to move to Costa Rica for 6 months. We don't know where we'd like to go except that we will be on a somewhat tight budget and want to expose the kids to Spanish language and Costa Rican culture. ...
Hi. Cost of living on the Pacific coast is more expensive than inside the country. Breaking expenses for you: good(not great) unfurnished two bedroom house/apartment $380, security deposit $380, food $240 (for two persons), electricity $40, water ... Read More
MULTIPLE LISTING SERVICE IN COSTA RICA by lisacostarica
Greetings-was wondering if CR has a Multiple Listing Service as in the States. I'm freezing cold help need to get to CR fast!
I recommend to visit or to write Mari at mari@palmrealestatecr.com . She's a young and very active real estate realtor with over 10 years of experience with her own business in Playas del Coco. If you need other regions Remax has offices all ... Read More
Caution in trusting Ticos by sporto505
Below is an AM Costa Rica article about yet another gringo who was killed for money by Ticos/Nicos who were alerted to a possible easy payday by someone who worked for the gringo. This has to be at least the 6th version of a familiar story all ...
I love CR but I am tired of so many cunning ticos, can't trust them anymore. I think they first lure you in with their politeness and good intentions to later backstab you. It has been my experience with four of them. No more, I will rather be ... Read More
Legal advice sought by Rickferrier
On there, I am Rick (Canada...CR) Looking for some CR advice on following incident. Thanks for your help! This past March, driving towards Jaco from Orotina, down a hill slowing down, signalling to turn left, looked in rear view mirror all ...
I'd say, and pardon my language, screw the motorcycle guy. Do not come down and forget it happened. If it were the other way around, the motorcycle driver would never show up nor pay if you had been injured. In these banana republics, people ... Read More
Length of Visa Costa Rica by Robert Truman
Hello everyone, my name is Robbie and I am thinking about living long term in Costa Rica...(retirement). But looks difficult from what I read. Is there any advise out there how this can happen.
Hello, Robert. There are many websites that can guide you on the issue. But you can come down on a 90-day visa, go out (Nicaragua/Panam/USA) and renter for 90 more days; other ways are as an investor, by way of marriage, by having a kid born here ... Read More
Working for a US company by williamarnold1
Hello, I am wanting to move to Costa Rica but I would need income. My research has found its almost impossible to work there without residency. What if I work for a US based company such as Marriot?
Hi. I'm not posting a job offer for all, just for Susan. But I take the advise and post similar comments internally. Read More
Working for a US company by williamarnold1
Hello, I am wanting to move to Costa Rica but I would need income. My research has found its almost impossible to work there without residency. What if I work for a US based company such as Marriot?
BTW, I see you are in Jaco? Do you have a male partner wanting to work down by Peninsula de Ossa, near Puerto Jimenez? Are you both interested. The job is for a couple to take care of an Inn (no TV, no electricity, solar energy and internet only, ... Read More
Working for a US company by williamarnold1
Hello, I am wanting to move to Costa Rica but I would need income. My research has found its almost impossible to work there without residency. What if I work for a US based company such as Marriot?
Freelancing is done according to our own qualifications/experience. In my case, I freelance all over the world doing database development, SEO, translations and article writing; I've landed a few jobs here in CR, but most are from overseas. ... Read More
Working for a US company by williamarnold1
Hello, I am wanting to move to Costa Rica but I would need income. My research has found its almost impossible to work there without residency. What if I work for a US based company such as Marriot?
Another option is to work as a freelancer over the internet. You would have to renew your visa every 90 days, though. Read More
Locations to consider living in Costa Rica by briner
My wife and I are looking for feedback on locations that would provide the following: - very safe - reasonably priced - nearby to golf and beach (within several miles) Any suggestions would be appreciated. Thanks. Ralph and Marian
Hello. I wonder if you'd rent your current house until you find a buyer. I live in Palmares but want to move to the San Ramon area because a daughter is going to school at the UCR scientific high school. Read More
we are baby boomers thinking of retiring to Costa Rica by tamerlanesunny
Hi my name is Sunny , my soon to be husband is Storm , we currently live in Fort Lauderdale and am tired of the traffic and traffic and crime and lack of manners, some of you know what I'm talking about. this is a big step and we want to ...
Hi, Craig. If you'd like to tour my town, Palmares, I would be happy to show it to you. Palmares is right off the Panamerican highway, north from San Jose, 30 mins from the airport. Read More
Too old? by JimNorman
I was forced to retire at age 75 and am disabled. Is this too much of a challenge to relocate now?
About time to start thinking about taking it easy. Come down, see for yourself, shop around. Public transportation has ramps for wheelchairs, beach towns lack sidewalks, just about., the disabled person has priorities on any line. Costa Rica is a ... Read More
Pensionado - Making Payments and Getting Receipts by cheekimunki30
Hello! I'm reading up on applying for the Pensionado Residency and I see that I have to pay $50 for the application and $200 to change status from tourist to applying for residency into account 242480-0 at the Banco de Costa Rica. I read that I ...
If you use any bank, the bank will make a conversion for you., first it will buy you the USDs, then it will make the deposit. But if you want to see the going exchange rate, here's one site (my bank site) that gives you a close idea: ... Read More
Getting Started
Hello. I have many expat friends from Canada and the US whose kids are enrolled in public schools, no problem. Private schools tuition starts at $300+, add books, uniforms, and the etceteras all schools come out with; it becomes expensive for most ... Read More
Looking for Playa Coco rental for 6 month minimum. by drdawnchiro
Hi ! I am moving to Costa Rica no later than May 1st, and trying to do it by April 1st. On Jan 27 I have a flight to San Jose, so I fan look at a couple condos, or homes. I plan on signing a contract before I leave on Feb 2. Does anyone have a 1 or ...
I wasn't too crazy about Playas del Coco since the beginning but we had close friends living there who encouraged us to move from the Tamarindo area (do not recommend it, too expensive, a tourist trap). The beach at Playas del Coco is dark, too ... Read More
Looking for Playa Coco rental for 6 month minimum. by drdawnchiro
Hi ! I am moving to Costa Rica no later than May 1st, and trying to do it by April 1st. On Jan 27 I have a flight to San Jose, so I fan look at a couple condos, or homes. I plan on signing a contract before I leave on Feb 2. Does anyone have a 1 or ...
Hello. Vista Turquesa, in Playas del Coco, where I lived for many years had all services and wi-fi included, and when I left three years ago the rent was $600 a month. It is a nice, quite place, less than 5 minutes from the beach, but you'd ... Read More
Selling and marchamo by Canashells
Hello, I've been away from Costa Rica for a couple years now. I'm back again for a bit and looking to sell my bike. I'm told marchamo has to be back paid now before selling. Is this true? Does the new buyer have responsibility? And ...
http://portal.ins-cr.com/marchamo/marchamo/frmconsultamarchamo.aspx Read More
Renewing Temporary Residency by samramon
When we go to renew our Temporary residency after 2 years of legal residency, I heard we can do it at BCR . But I have questions for those of you who have done this, at BCR or not at BCR ... I read this on BCR 's web page: "Cost per ...
Sorry, that was our third renewal. Read More
Renewing Temporary Residency by samramon
When we go to renew our Temporary residency after 2 years of legal residency, I heard we can do it at BCR . But I have questions for those of you who have done this, at BCR or not at BCR ... I read this on BCR 's web page: "Cost per ...
TerrynViv said it as it is. We just had our second renewal valid for 3 years, first one was for 2 years. The call to get an appointment at BCR is 300 colones per minute. We paid for three: wife, child and I. Never hear of the $48 you mention. The ... Read More
Long Term rental in Quanncaste Province
Hello. I used to rent out places in Playa Hermosa/Playa Panama,/Coco/Ocotal area. If interested, let me know. Read More
Looking for a new home. by James $ Sarah Darling
Hi I'm James Darling from Oklahoma USA, Looking to find a new home for Sarah and I, I will keep my political views to ourselves, However I wish to move so Sarah and I can be together, It seams that the immigration service is truly lacking , So ...
Hi. This is just my opinion. About many immigration attorneys I've heard of from several acquaintances and friends, I'd do the immigration paperwork myself. That's what I did seven years ago; it took us about 3 months to get the ... Read More
Looking to meet Expats during my trip to Central Valley
To both, the Carpenters and birdnsky_1 we live in Palmares, Alajuela, 30 mins from the international airport. If you come to town (very nice and quiet town) give us a buzz. We'll be glad to show you around. Read More
Building a Home In Costa Rica by SaturnHelios
Hello everyone, I'm planning on moving to Puerto Viejo, Limon, Costa Rica in the near future and I'm currently saving money to build a home, but I'm having some problems figuring out the cost of per square meter/m2 I found this website ...
ANd there are expenses incurred with construction permits, utility requests, etc. Read More
Building a Home In Costa Rica by SaturnHelios
Hello everyone, I'm planning on moving to Puerto Viejo, Limon, Costa Rica in the near future and I'm currently saving money to build a home, but I'm having some problems figuring out the cost of per square meter/m2 I found this website ...
300k colones are a bit less of USD $600 (if dividing by 500, the fastest way; now one dollar is around 575 colones), so your figures are right Read More
How to purchase items from Costa Rica online by Durphym
I have just spent almost an hour in an online chat with Aeropost. Given that Amazon has a distribution center in San Jose, I thought that I could buy items from within CR online and have them shipped to my Correos address. Well, I found today that ...
I have a mail box in Miami from Correos de Costa Rica and another one from Ultrabox. The times I've used correos I've had no problem, but they keep changing their minds. The last email I received from them, it says I can order up to $500, no ... Read More
Looking for a calm, safe, semi-rural area in CR by holisticdoc
I was told by a retiree pal who has traveled extensively throughout Costa Rica. She tells me that the best places in CR are Punta Morales, Turrialba, Nicoya or Agua Buena. I am unsure about her favorite selections. By the way, isn't ...
Do not know. This property is located in Piedades Norte Read More
Looking for a calm, safe, semi-rural area in CR by holisticdoc
I was told by a retiree pal who has traveled extensively throughout Costa Rica. She tells me that the best places in CR are Punta Morales, Turrialba, Nicoya or Agua Buena. I am unsure about her favorite selections. By the way, isn't ...
Hello. It happens I looked yesterday at a 5 hectares finca in the San Ramon Area. It has a spring that never dries, a small two-story cabin, most of the property is on a hill. The clearest river I've seen in CR goes in front of the property, ... Read More
Immigration by samantha jane 85
Hi all My name is samantha. I am currently looking into moving to Costa Rica and finding employment Any advice please?
I'd say, if you are set on living in CR, there are private hospitals and practices that will hire you. There's a risk for the employer and employee and you can't get full employment benefits, but"you need to break an egg to make an ... Read More
Need a reliable driver from San Jose to Utiva.
At today's gasoline prices it will cost 90000 colones, car with AC, car just for you, not a shuttle., Read More
Need a reliable driver from San Jose to Utiva.
Is it Utiva or "Uvita"? Read More
Need a reliable driver from San Jose to Utiva.
Hi. Do you need an English speaking driver or can I send my Uber car with a driver who does not speak English? Read More
Looking for a calm, safe, semi-rural area in CR by holisticdoc
I was told by a retiree pal who has traveled extensively throughout Costa Rica. She tells me that the best places in CR are Punta Morales, Turrialba, Nicoya or Agua Buena. I am unsure about her favorite selections. By the way, isn't ...
No, it's a prision Read More
Looking for a calm, safe, semi-rural area in CR by holisticdoc
I was told by a retiree pal who has traveled extensively throughout Costa Rica. She tells me that the best places in CR are Punta Morales, Turrialba, Nicoya or Agua Buena. I am unsure about her favorite selections. By the way, isn't ...
I recommend town in my area: San Ramon, Atenas or Palamares where I live. But there are others as well. Some beach towns are alright, but after living in several for almost 9 years, I would change my town for one of those. Come visit, see for ... Read More
Shipping Vehicle to CR by meliiv
Thanks for all the great information so far. I'm considering shipping my vehicle from NJ (live in MD currently). The rates are reasonable and you can stuff the car with personal belongings for less than $200 more. Question is...how much will CR ...
Here http://www.hacienda.go.cr/autohacienda/AutoValor.aspx you will find what Hacienda (IRS equivalent) says your car is worth and how much import tax it will generate. Shipping not included. Another helpful link: ... Read More
Advise needed Guanacaste Province by glwilliams
Hi All, I'm looking to retire in the next year or so and think it's time for a new adventure. Have lived in Eastern and Western Canada plus Atlanta, Ga. About 20 years in each area. Have many great friends all over NA. I live a pretty ...
Hello. A good 2B/2B condo can go for around $600 + utilities. I lived in Playas del Coco for 9 years, rented a condo overlooking the ocean, 5 mins from downtown, utilities, cable and internet included, swimming pool, laundry facilities, quiet, nice. ... Read More
Advise on best location for teenager by ShanCol
Good afternoon, I am sorry if this topic was already introduced,...please bear with me as I am new to the forum. We are from Ontario Canada. We have been to Costa Rica quite a few times, but always in the tourist capacity. It was enough to ...
Beach towns are fine but they are too hot, too expensive, lots of transients for my taste, after 9 years living in several of them. Tamarindo, the most famous CR beach town is more expensive than Paris, no kidding. Again, the beach is fun to visit, ... Read More
Advise on best location for teenager by ShanCol
Good afternoon, I am sorry if this topic was already introduced,...please bear with me as I am new to the forum. We are from Ontario Canada. We have been to Costa Rica quite a few times, but always in the tourist capacity. It was enough to ...
Hello. There are good schools all over the country, some public others private, some private ones are run by religious male/female congregations, as well. From my experience, having had my teenager daughter on both private and public schools, I ... Read More
Paying bills in Costa Rica by Priscilla
Hello everyone, What bills do you pay? If you are renting, are bills included in the price of rent, and is this common practice in Costa Rica? How can you pay your bills (e.g. online, at provider's store, at the post office)? Which is the most ...
Hello, Priscilla. I I pay several bills, all online. Bills can be paid in several businesses or banks., all bills are monthly bills. City service bills deliver hard copies, for the others, I have to remember due dates. Most long-term rentals do not ... Read More
Moving back to Costa Rica by Surffeaver
Moving back to Costa Rica soon after health issue.Need two things,first I take isinopril for blood pressure,anybody know if it's availible there?Also we need a good pickup or SUV 4WD for 15 to 18 grand. Thanks
Hi. As far as I know, Lisinopril 10mg is not listed here as a blood pressure med, and the Caja is the only one that formulates it, no pharmacy distributes it. If you lived here before you must be familiar with some Costa Rica car sales websites ... Read More
Iphone
I live in Palmares, there's a guy here that does it. Where do you live? Read More
Iphone
Buy it from Amazon. I just bought one, got it delivered to my Ultrabox postal box in Miami and brought over here. Paid $24 for shipping, handling, and taxes. Read More
What type of expat mum are you? by Payitamon
A few weeks ago I conducted a survey to find out what the main problems of expat mums were. I got 70 answers back (woha!) and found some patterns. You can see the results ...
You will have to wait until your son is 5 years old to be admitted in a public kinder. If you are a resident of CR, there are many places offering jobs for Spanish and/or English speaking workers. IF you're not a resident you can still find a ... Read More
Medical Care/ Dental Care by GuestPoster678
I'm pretty serious in considering to live in Costa Rica short-term. I live in Canada. I was curious how is the medical and dental care in Costa Rica generally speaking? If a teaching job provides health insurance, will it cover most medical ...
I do not think the fee is expensive for one person, but for a family of 4 I stick with the Caja hoping I do not use them much; I haven't so far, knock on wood. Sudden illnesses like a cough, a fever or a headache the Caja quickly delivers ... Read More
Medical Care/ Dental Care by GuestPoster678
I'm pretty serious in considering to live in Costa Rica short-term. I live in Canada. I was curious how is the medical and dental care in Costa Rica generally speaking? If a teaching job provides health insurance, will it cover most medical ...
Hi. I do not know how to attach a file here, other than a picture. For what I read, people over 58 pay around 1100 colones more than younger ones which go for 6700/person for the basic plan, a Platinum plan is offered as well. I do not see a Dental ... Read More
Medical Care/ Dental Care by GuestPoster678
I'm pretty serious in considering to live in Costa Rica short-term. I live in Canada. I was curious how is the medical and dental care in Costa Rica generally speaking? If a teaching job provides health insurance, will it cover most medical ...
If you do look into it let me know what you think and what you find out. I have been planning to go back in there and ask a few follow up questions but just haven't gotten around to it yet. So if you find out any negatives or positives please ... Read More
Medical Care/ Dental Care by GuestPoster678
I'm pretty serious in considering to live in Costa Rica short-term. I live in Canada. I was curious how is the medical and dental care in Costa Rica generally speaking? If a teaching job provides health insurance, will it cover most medical ...
Thank you for the comment. I will check it out. for my own. Read More
Medical Care/ Dental Care by GuestPoster678
I'm pretty serious in considering to live in Costa Rica short-term. I live in Canada. I was curious how is the medical and dental care in Costa Rica generally speaking? If a teaching job provides health insurance, will it cover most medical ...
No idea. I have through my bank, for $20/month, a compensation plan that pays for each day in the hospital up to 6 months or a year depending on the cause of hospitalization, it does not cover dental. Read More
Medical Care/ Dental Care by GuestPoster678
I'm pretty serious in considering to live in Costa Rica short-term. I live in Canada. I was curious how is the medical and dental care in Costa Rica generally speaking? If a teaching job provides health insurance, will it cover most medical ...
The time I've used the CAJA for dentistry I've gotten the appointment within a week, and I have had cleanings, many times. The thing is that the dentist will need two or three appointments to clean. It's like they give you 15 mins of ... Read More
Medical Care/ Dental Care by GuestPoster678
I'm pretty serious in considering to live in Costa Rica short-term. I live in Canada. I was curious how is the medical and dental care in Costa Rica generally speaking? If a teaching job provides health insurance, will it cover most medical ...
You can have health insurance through your job and visit the doctor when you feel or need it, but you have to be a CR resident though, or you can buy a private plan. In general, you'll find good doctors and dentist in the private sector; the ... Read More
Buying a condo to rent? by GuestPoster098
Hello all! New to the forum - I live in Los Angeles and am doing research re: purchasing a beach condo in Costa Rica (or elsewhere in Central America, recommendations/thoughts welcome) solely as an investment, to rent out to others. Do any of you ...
I agree with Expat Dave, save yourself the headaches Read More
Registering a birth in Costa Rica
Hi. In our case, we both went to the Registraduria (LIberia branch), it didn´t take too long to be waited on, three days later we had the child´s registration, got her a passport. Same thing at our country registered the child, got her ... Read More
Zico virus in San ramon by Katielbarlow
Hi. I'm moving to San Ramon in a couple of days!! I just found out I'm pregnant and am worried about Zica virus!! I am wondering if anyone knows anything about how big of a problem zica is in San Ramon? I will be taking every precaution. ...
Hi. I live in Palmares, near San Ramon. I haven´t heard much about Zica being a big problem there; but in your case, better be prepared. I believe the government health offices can enlighten you better. Read More
What are the dos and don'ts of finding a job in Costa Rica? by Priscilla
Hello everyone, Where is the best place to start when looking for a job in Costa Rica? Is it better to job-hunt by directly contacting the company of your interest, or should job-seekers rely on a recruitment agency, for example? Are there any ...
Hi. I can only talk about my experience: - There are hundred of jobs available. For some, you need to be bilingual, for most you need to speak good Spanish and some others require English only. - You and the employer take the risk if you get hired ... Read More
6 months here by ssmith338
Hello Everyone! I moved to Coco from Columbus, Georgia because I am older (yes, I will admit it) and the public schools were becoming too stressful to work in. I have over 30 years working as both a special education teacher and a school ...
Sorry to hear about the bad times you've had. There's a bus stop right across the road from Lakeside, bus drivers are usually "amables", you just found a SOB that time he left you far from the school. Taxi drivers are another story ... Read More
6 months here by ssmith338
Hello Everyone! I moved to Coco from Columbus, Georgia because I am older (yes, I will admit it) and the public schools were becoming too stressful to work in. I have over 30 years working as both a special education teacher and a school ...
I've heard that the German mechanic who has his shop 200 mts down the road ending at the post office is very good, a bit expensive but trustworthy. There's another mechanic named Manfred (tico), with his garage about 300 meters down the road ... Read More
Relocation to costa rica
Hi, Ronan. The best areas to open a tourist service would be the north western Pacific, The tourist business is seasonal and for the past 8 years have been suffering although it has picked up some. I worked with a couple of realtors in San Jose and ... Read More
6 months here by ssmith338
Hello Everyone! I moved to Coco from Columbus, Georgia because I am older (yes, I will admit it) and the public schools were becoming too stressful to work in. I have over 30 years working as both a special education teacher and a school ...
Hello. I live in Coco for near 9 years so I know my way around. Before I go on, I do not trust nor like lawyers (and I know a couple of good ones in Coco). I got my residence doing the work myself instead of using one (I've heard many stories of ... Read More
Newbie Interested in Finding Like-Minded Sustainable Community by Ingrala
Hello, I'm new to this site. I'm a 55 y.o., soon-to-be-retired music teacher from Anchorage, Alaska. We are coming down in November to explore the possibility of finding a small house, with 1 to 3 acres of land for growing our own food. ...
Hahaha. That remains me of a Canadian friend who said that when an expat marries a latin girl (in this case a tica), he marries her entire family. True, the friend went through that process himself. I guess the latin insects do the same. But there ... Read More
Newbie Interested in Finding Like-Minded Sustainable Community by Ingrala
Hello, I'm new to this site. I'm a 55 y.o., soon-to-be-retired music teacher from Anchorage, Alaska. We are coming down in November to explore the possibility of finding a small house, with 1 to 3 acres of land for growing our own food. ...
Hello. Check http://www.pachamama.com, http://www.montezumabeach.com or http://ecorealtorscr.com for samples of some of the sustainable communities already installed in Costa Rica, I believe that to grow one's own food, hydroponics is the way ... Read More
motor scooters by jerry reidelbach
Hi,I will be moving to CR soon and would like to know what the requirements where on riding motor scooters in CR?
Hello, Dave. Can you give me a phone number for the mechanic in San Ramon? Finding a trustworthy mechanic is very hard Read More