Terry and Vivian Smith
@TerrynViv
Canadian expat in Costa Rica
Forum posts
651
Contacts
7
About me
Canadian
Lives in La Palma
Speaks English and some Spanish
Registration: 21 October 2011
Relocating with art - paintings and pastels by kathleentitus
I would like to move to Costa Rica from Michigan and my most important belongings are my large oil paintings and pastels. I am wondering how safe it is to ship fragile, sentimental items like one's own oil paintings and pastel with a mover? I am ...
We moved with a container and I custom built styrofoam lined wooden crates for all wall pictures and four glass tops from coffee tables and end tables. It was a bit of work, but EVERYTHING travelled safely with no breakages. Read More
HOW (step-by-step instructions) to apply for a pensionado visa by dwilhelms1
Hello all,I cannot find any information on a goverment or otherwise reliable-appearing site on how to apply for a pensionado visa. And the consulate in Denver is evidently closed. Any ideas on where to find such a place? Or is that not even ...
I agree wholeheartedly about the use of a lawyer, we had to step in 1/2 way through our initial application and finish it up ourselves.Permanent Residency, we did ourselves, and it was a breeze. We even managed to get our initial deposits for ... Read More
Question- 3 things by edwinemora
@LiveWire11C,I know everything about Costa Rica !....The Costa Rica Americans would never admit to because it is a travesty......As soon as anyone opens their mouth here, they are already lying...That includes gringos and everybody else.....It is ...
The most important issue is to never have encountered edwinemoron. He was banned and allowed back. He has been banned on numerous Facebook pages. We are going to lose contributors due to his antics! Read More
Cost of living in Costa Rica in 2025 by Cheryl
Hello everyone, Every year, we invite you to share your experiences with the cost of living in in Costa Rica, especially in the region or city you live in. Your insights will greatly help members planning their move to Costa Rica or already ...
We bought a small acreage and built our house. The cost of the land and house was cash paid out of pocket. (slightly less than $400,000).Of course we could live on less ......... but did not work for the same company for 38 years only to scrimp on ... Read More
Cost of living in Costa Rica in 2025 by Cheryl
Hello everyone, Every year, we invite you to share your experiences with the cost of living in in Costa Rica, especially in the region or city you live in. Your insights will greatly help members planning their move to Costa Rica or already ...
We live in a rural area outside of Puriscal and our costs in 2024 were as follows in USD per year: (costs tracked in a home finance program)Daily living expenses (groceries, drinks, etc.) - $10,055Electricity - $1,747Internet (200 mbps up and down) ... Read More
Influx of new expats ??? by rainagain
Hello. This is not about politics... but, with the events of last night in the US... will we or should we, and our Tico friends and neighbors, expect an influx of new Expats in the coming months and years? ...May be interesting to ...
We have been here ten years, did not leave Canada because things got too bad, but rather to enhance our retirement. Spent ten years looking at alternatives and landed here. We are in Puriscal, which is an hour and a half from San Jose. If you ... Read More
Checking things out in March by dennisqdw
Like others, we have been to Costa Rica before, but are now thinking of retiring there. Or maybe splitting time between San Jose and New Mexico, where we currently live. We are coming in mid March to do some fact finding about where the best ...
I'll vouch for daveandmarcia's advice. Up until two years ago, when ICE installed fiber optic in our subdivision, 75% of our community had ICE copper internet. My next door neighbor had it and it was not available to us. Read More
Expat banking in CR by CR Jeanne
Afternnon all:What can ya'll tell me about banking in CR? I'll be a Pensionada temp resident when I arrive in June of next year. Im thinking I'll just transfer auto-transfer my monthly Social Security direct deposit from my US credit union into ...
I have heard many different variations on what is allowed and what is not.I can only give my personal experience. We opened our bank account, with our Canadian passports, with Banco Nacional before we achieved our residency. We were limited to ... Read More
Expat banking in CR by CR Jeanne
Afternnon all:What can ya'll tell me about banking in CR? I'll be a Pensionada temp resident when I arrive in June of next year. Im thinking I'll just transfer auto-transfer my monthly Social Security direct deposit from my US credit union into ...
newlance777;Can you be more specific with your question?What were you told was impossible?Cheers .... Terry Read More
Type 2 diabetic by beckinlbc
I am being prescribed Mounjaro because of my diabetes getting worse. I am also thinking about leaving the US with the political climate. Is this medicine available in Costa Rica and if yes, how much does it cost. Becki
I sent you a PM. Read More
Expat banking in CR by CR Jeanne
Afternnon all:What can ya'll tell me about banking in CR? I'll be a Pensionada temp resident when I arrive in June of next year. Im thinking I'll just transfer auto-transfer my monthly Social Security direct deposit from my US credit union into ...
We have had an account with Banco Nacional for 10 years now. We only have a dollar account but can move colones through it. We only use colones as our daily currency. We are from Canada and use our Scotia Bank Passport Visa for almost all our ... Read More
Trustworthy Realtor by Nylado
I'm planning a trip to CR in the spring to search for a long term rental. May be interested in buying a home after a year. Which realtor do you think is top rated and trustworthy?
Getting to know some of the locals and asking their opinion works in the long run, but that is hard to do until you are established. Many of the small businesses have "bulletin boards" where you can find some ideas. We travelled throughout Costa ... Read More
Trustworthy Realtor by Nylado
I'm planning a trip to CR in the spring to search for a long term rental. May be interested in buying a home after a year. Which realtor do you think is top rated and trustworthy?
Realty is not regulated here. There is no such thing as a realtor. We came here ten years ago with the same illusion. There are some people here who could fit your criteria, but not the same as in Canada or the US Read More
Income proof for inversionista temporary residency by Simplepuravida
HiCan anyone shed some light on what income if any is needed when requesting a temporary residency under the inversionista program ie; (buying a qualifying property). Specifically I would like to know what I should expect the caja to be under that ...
I did not have to show any income to receive our temporary Inversionista Residency. Rather I had to show our tax valuation of our property which at the time had to be over $200,000 USD.Caja will be a crap shoot!!! I know a couple who left ... Read More
Electrician job in Costa RIca by Cédric Miginiac
Hi I'm french I want to move in Costa Rica on 2025 . I d' like to know if there's opportunities with my job .Let me know if someone knows something about it ..Cedric
Here are a couple of links that may help;https://www.costarica.com/relocation/working-in-costa-rica/https://www.godutchrealty.blog/costa-rica-living/i-want-to-work-in-costa-rica-am-i-allowed-to/ Read More
Monthly CAJA payment by Schempf
I can't seem to connect with anyone about lowering my monthly payment. Removing pension and matrimonio.I've emailed, got redirected then told my email not accepted.Calling was just recordings.My attorney wrote a letter, but no response.Is there an ...
I have read many, many times that Caja is based on your income, and the Inversionista residency is the highest category in regards to Caja payments. I cannot speak for anyone else's experience but ours has been very positive. We joined ten years ... Read More
Where to live in CR ? by slausonbeanco
Good day,Planing a trip in Jan 2025 to look into some areas near lake Arenal and west to the coast. like to be near water of some sort. 72 years young with my lady a few years younger. Like to go out and explore the culture and enjoy what is ...
3000 feet .... cool weather?????Depends on your definition of cool. The top of our development is at 3000 feet and the lower half at 2500. Year round, the normal morning low is 21 deg C. It is 7:15am now and the temp is 24 deg C. Normal highs ... Read More
Where to live in CR ? by slausonbeanco
Good day,Planing a trip in Jan 2025 to look into some areas near lake Arenal and west to the coast. like to be near water of some sort. 72 years young with my lady a few years younger. Like to go out and explore the culture and enjoy what is ...
I posted this same reply on another thread recently.I hesitate to recommend any towns, it is a highly personal choice. We first thought that we wanted a view of the ocean on the west coast. We spent three hours freeing our rental SUV from property ... Read More
Temporary Residency for a Retiree process by gmmcwhirter
I'm a new member. Doing my due diligence for the past ? years. We haven't visited yet but that's coming up soon. I'm trying to figure out just how to navigate the forum site, like where to find certain posts/strings by certain members? Is it even ...
Not only does it vary from town to town, it can vary from house to house. We have been here for ten years and the first eight years we went through 4 different internet providers and none of them were stellar. Two years ago, ICE installed fiber ... Read More
Temporary Residency for a Retiree process by gmmcwhirter
I'm a new member. Doing my due diligence for the past ? years. We haven't visited yet but that's coming up soon. I'm trying to figure out just how to navigate the forum site, like where to find certain posts/strings by certain members? Is it even ...
We first came down in 2010 and were clueless. We came back for four years and purchased a temporary sim card. We had Kolbi, Morning Star, and Claro. By our fourth trip we had chosen our location and knew Kolbi was the best in the area. We wanted ... Read More
Temporary Residency for a Retiree process by gmmcwhirter
I'm a new member. Doing my due diligence for the past ? years. We haven't visited yet but that's coming up soon. I'm trying to figure out just how to navigate the forum site, like where to find certain posts/strings by certain members? Is it even ...
Have a look at this link https://costaricatelephones.com/ it gives some basic information. We have been here ten years and my wife and I both have Kolbi sim cards, both of us use the prepaid option and we do not have a land line in our house. It ... Read More
Potential retirement spots in Central America by RootBeer-GMT
Primarily looking for potential retirement spots in Central America. Belize and Costa Rica have been suggested, as has El Salvador. My concern is that the latter might be way over priced property wise for what you get in ...
Costa Rica is not inexpensive, but having said that we spend considerably less than we did in Canada. That was ten years ago. My wife still goes back to Canada, usually once a year, and the prices she checks out while there dictate that Costa Rica ... Read More
Veterans considering Costa Rica for a move by F_VC
Hey Everyone!My wife and I are thinking about moving out of the country in a few years. We want to let our oldest finish high school and we have a newborn as well!We're both veterans and have 100% VA disability. My wife owns two montessori schools ...
I hesitate to recommend any towns, it is a highly personal choice. We first thought that we wanted a view of the ocean on the west coast. We spent three hours freeing our rental SUV from property just above Dominical. It was in the cooler month ... Read More
Veterans considering Costa Rica for a move by F_VC
Hey Everyone!My wife and I are thinking about moving out of the country in a few years. We want to let our oldest finish high school and we have a newborn as well!We're both veterans and have 100% VA disability. My wife owns two montessori schools ...
jwboozeriii is bang on with his thoughts. Been here for almost 11 years and have no intention of going back north. As for edwinemora, keep in mind that he is from Costa Rica, went north, returned, and remains here in Costa Rica while ... Read More
Spending few months in Costa Rica by freeperson
We Re Canadian couple looking to spend Canadian winter in Costa Rica will buy from local and cook at home looking for safe not expensive area to rent walking distance to beach and market.been to Dominican Republic it was okay for our budget Need ...
Two peas in a pod!!! Read More
Moving to Costa Rica with an adult child by Frankenbillie
Hi, I’m a retired woman with a 30 year old daughter with whom I am planning on living with in Costa Rica for a year. Can she be my dependent for that time and connected to my income as a pensioner?
Enrollment in CAJA is mandatory before being issued your temporary residency and will be maintained throughout permanent residency. Read More
Living in Costa Rica? by jinxkhei3
I am traveling to Costa Rica, next month, in hopes of finding a home.Does anyone have any suggestions, or advice?? Rhonda C.
We chose a spot 17km S.W. of Puriscal 10 years ago. Have been very pleased with our choice. Have not had any problems whatsoever. Best of luck in your endeavor! Read More
Moving to Atenas from the US by lanierts
We are thinking of moving to Atenas from the US.Until we can buy a car are taxis readily available at a reasonable cost?Thomas
Taxis / Ubers are readily available. We find the costs reasonable. Read More
We could use advice on opening a bank account by roarkrick
@Julien Greetings! My name is Rick and we plan on moving to Atenas, CR in August of 2025. We have purchased a home and are attempting to rent it out until we move there permanently. We could use advice on opening a bank account.We are working with a ...
Just a point of interest, the platforma has been eliminated in Puriscal. Everyone does everything now. Read More
Wanting to move from Canada by tjuckufarley
Hi AllMy Wife and I are ex South Africans that moved to Canada in 2002. We are Canadian citizens now, and have been for a long time. As most of you Canadians know; life in Canada has changed much over the last few years. So - as the average middle ...
whosthataok;My wife and I were born in British Columbia but ended up in Alberta. Have been here 10 years now and growing strong. We are not in what would be considered a popular area, we live 17 kilometers S.W. of Puriscal which is 55 KM S.W. of ... Read More
Pensionado Visa - moved from: Costa Ricaforum by Fred by Artimas
Hi,From what I've learned about the Costa Rica visa process, I get the impression that you have to apply for a Pensionado Visa outside of Costa Rica. Is this the case?
daveandmarcia are very helpful and friendly and are invaluable on this forum and have been here for a lengthy time.You have been here for one day and are off to a poor start.Does that make you the arsehat????? Read More
Tamarindo Rental by saj03131864
My wife and I are choosing to retire in Tamarindo however, I am finding it difficult to find an agency that an help me find a rental property. Any advice?
Add taxi drivers to the list! Read More
Disabled veteran looking into Costa Rica by edwardguaschino
Hello everyone, my name is Ed , my wife and I currently live in Florida. I feel as if I can no longer live in the States full time. I recently read where Costa Rica offers retirement visas. I just have no idea where to begin looking. I would love to ...
We hail from Red Deer, Alberta. Have lived here just shy of ten years. We arrived with the idea of a piece of property about 500 feet above sea level that had a distant view of the ocean. Day three on the west coast, got our 4x4 rental stuck in a ... Read More
Relocation tours near Tamarindo by Plan4itnow
Looking for relocation tour services near Tamarindo or surrounding areas. My husband and I are visiting country in Feb and flying in to Liberia. We want to get a sense.of the difference areas on this side of country and see several areas to ...
We were quite similar, we looked at Mexico for five years and then Belize one year. We found Costa Rica in 2010 and knew it was the place for us. We bought an acreage in 2011 and started building in 2013 and we both retired in 2014 and ... Read More
Relocation tours near Tamarindo by Plan4itnow
Looking for relocation tour services near Tamarindo or surrounding areas. My husband and I are visiting country in Feb and flying in to Liberia. We want to get a sense.of the difference areas on this side of country and see several areas to ...
In 2010, we considered hiring a tour guide and decided against it. We rented a car and put on 2500km in three weeks. We saw many places a tour guide would not have taken us and it fact have lived here on an acreage that we found ourselves for ten ... Read More
Drivers License by mjgbenoit
We are new residents as of Oct 23rd. What is the exact next steps and timelines to apply for our drivers license?
Just to clarify, at the present, your foreign driver's license is valid for 90 days from the last entry stamp in a valid passport. This is irregardless of the number of days you are validated for your current stay. Having said this if you enter ... Read More
Banking in Costa Rica by nbsvest
does anybody have info on rates foe money market or savings in Costa Rica?
Meechbear. don't bother wasting your typing on this person! Does the word TROLL ring true with you? Read More
Relocating to Costa Rica for retirement by cordell848
I want to retire abroad. When would be a good time to plan a trip to Costa Rico to find out more about retiring there?
We came down in 2010 and did not move until 2014. PLEASE make sure that if you are a couple, that you both agree. We did and we are still here!!! 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 ...
10 years ..... Loving it and going strong! Read More
Travel to Costa Rica for 4-6 months research stay by Monday Usman
@Julien Good day!My name is Monday Usman, a Nigerian and a PhD student. I have been selected for a CLIFF-GRADS Scholarship to travel to University of Costa Rica for 4-6 months research stay. There is no Embassy of Costa Rica in Nigeria, please ...
A word of warning, the 90 days is not guaranteed! I have seen stamps of seven days. Read More
Worst place to visit or retire to by hwrdsutcliffe125
My fiance and I were amped up about visiting Costa Rica and seeing if it was a place we'd like to retire to. 1st. It's no cheaper than the U.S. 2nd San jose is a nasty joke of a city mess. Drivers are rude. Worse than new York ...
Tsaheylu22Could not agree with you more. If I had a negative experience I would gladly share it with others, fortunately for us we have not had to experience what hwrdsutcliffe writes of. If we had felt as he feels, we would no longer be living ... Read More
Worst place to visit or retire to by hwrdsutcliffe125
My fiance and I were amped up about visiting Costa Rica and seeing if it was a place we'd like to retire to. 1st. It's no cheaper than the U.S. 2nd San jose is a nasty joke of a city mess. Drivers are rude. Worse than new York ...
hwrdsutcliffe;I feel bad that you had such an experience!Having said that I must comment that we have been living here for nine years and have never encountered an experience such as you posted. We have been on NUMEROUS outings and trips based out ... Read More
Used car purchases by Justagirl8870
Hello friends. Do you have to pay duty when you buy a car used in CR? Trying to decide whether to buy new or used. thanks!
We have bought 1 used car and 1 new car while living in Costa Rica. No duty on either (except it is definitely buried in the new car sticker price). Read More
Recently obtained a Green Card thru a property purchase by jkp39
For Costa Rica : Has anyone completed the $200, 000. ( soon to be $160,000.) property purchase and obtained a green card ?
We went the Inversionista route when the investment was $200,000. The kicker is that it is not the amount paid for the property, but rather it goes by the Municipalities assed tax value. For example we built our house and it cost just over ... Read More
Package Importation Service by daveandmarcia
A gentleman who lives in Heredia runs a package importation service that is not well known but which has loyal following. For all the details, you should contact him directly (see below). His English is perfect.The gist of it is that when you ...
We live in Puriscal and Dual just opened an office. We have two gates on our development and each gate has an RFID card reader. When the first card reader failed Dual was not yet in service so I used Aeropost and the charges incurred were $56.22. ... Read More
Health coverage/insurance questions by WJPII
My apologies in advance if these questions have been asked before....but I looked in the threads and could not find anything under 2 years old and not specifically for what I am trying to find. Wonder if someone could help me? I am an american ...
Henrych;My point was that when we enrolled in Caja the same things were being said. I spoke with a Canadian couple that had gone through their residency process and when they went to sign up for Caja their payment was to be $750 per month. We had ... Read More
Health coverage/insurance questions by WJPII
My apologies in advance if these questions have been asked before....but I looked in the threads and could not find anything under 2 years old and not specifically for what I am trying to find. Wonder if someone could help me? I am an american ...
We are Inversionistas and pay $47 USD a month for coverage for the two of us. Read More
How Does Caja Work ? by dkor
Dear expats - I see there has been a lot of discussion about Caja, but I'm not quite finding the answers to my questions - so please forgive me if this has been answered before and I am just not finding it. My spouse and I are applying for ...
Blackwatch;An RRSP will not qualify as a pension as it is not "for life". At least mine would not as the income has an end date and is not "for life". CPP or OAS would qualify as they are "for life". Read More
How Does Caja Work ? by dkor
Dear expats - I see there has been a lot of discussion about Caja, but I'm not quite finding the answers to my questions - so please forgive me if this has been answered before and I am just not finding it. My spouse and I are applying for ...
I have never had to show formal proof of any income as an Inversionista. I have always reported it in a Word document to Caja as an Income/expense document and had no problem at all. We are now permanent residences and no longer even have to ... Read More
How Does Caja Work ? by dkor
Dear expats - I see there has been a lot of discussion about Caja, but I'm not quite finding the answers to my questions - so please forgive me if this has been answered before and I am just not finding it. My spouse and I are applying for ...
I have been through this very thoroughly over the last eight years and this is my understanding of what must be reported. Firstly only guaranteed income is what your Caja payments will be based on. In our original application I looked like a ... 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?
Yes, definitely, ourselves and many friends. Read More
Living in Costa Rica certainly has its advantages! by crbooks
The lower cost of living is one of them. And having a lower cost of living will help you do the things you enjoy like dining out frequently, traveling, and going out for drinks with friends. Without having to sacrifice your other expenses like your ...
CAJA - We are Inversionistas, supposedly the highest category ....... we pay $47 USD per monthRiteve - Last year paid $33.27. Under the new system this year (Dekra) it will be less than half of it.Marchamo - Last year with a 2009 Hyundai it was ... Read More
Potential Move; Family Already in CR by DesertKid
I Have Been retired for awhile now and want to relocate To the Area Mentioned above, Possibly. I want to get the Process Moving and would like to know is there any sort of Paperwork To submit to CR Consulate, such as a Pensionado Request for VISA or ...
*****things have changed. $200+ is not unusual! Read More
19% healthcare tax on retirees in CR by Blackwatch
I have been researching the details of retiring in Costa Rica. Recently there have been changes to the Caja or healthcare and retirement program. After March 16, 2022 if you become a resident under the pensionado program you have to pay into the ...
When we signed up for Caja as an Inversionista, I was asked to provide an income versus expense statement. Every time we renew our residency I am expected to go to my local Ebais and reregister. Sometimes it is a simple process and other times I ... Read More
Income tax - Retired Canadian becoming CR resident by Blackwatch
I have been looking into the tax implications of moving to Costa Rica in retirement from Canada and giving up my Canadian residency for tax purposes. I'm looking for any info from other Canadians that have moved to CR and aren't considered a ...
You could very well be correct on changing the withholding tax. I just read about having it lowered and my wife and I discussed it and decided it was not worth the effort. Like the good ol' days we just reap a bonus at tax time albeit a ... Read More
Income tax - Retired Canadian becoming CR resident by Blackwatch
I have been looking into the tax implications of moving to Costa Rica in retirement from Canada and giving up my Canadian residency for tax purposes. I'm looking for any info from other Canadians that have moved to CR and aren't considered a ...
We severed residency with Canada eight years ago. All our monetary assets remain in Canada (bank accounts, LIF's, RRSP's, OAS, etc.). We do not perform work in Costa Rica, so are not subject to Costa Rican taxes. Our RRSP's, LIF's, ... Read More
bringing seeds into Costa Rica by lauramacpherson
We will be in Costa Rica for 4 months. I wanted to grow some veggies and herbs while we are there. Does anyone know if you are allowed to bring unopened seed packets from the US into Costa Rica? Thanks. Laura
When we moved eight years ago we started the garden thing. We are now left with a spiral herb garden and shopping at the Feria! Read More
Construction Costs 2022 by sbgutwin
I have land and a house design using a lot of steel and glass in hill south of Nosara.What is the present estimated per sf or per m costs? When calculating total f2 (or m2) is the garage included? Are open exterior porches ...
Littletower, Henrych and Ziminar, I sent you a PM with the Architect’s information.Best of luck! Read More
Construction Costs 2022 by sbgutwin
I have land and a house design using a lot of steel and glass in hill south of Nosara.What is the present estimated per sf or per m costs? When calculating total f2 (or m2) is the garage included? Are open exterior porches ...
When we built in 2014 the total footprint of the house / garage / covered deck area and balconies were included in the cost per square meter. You will have to check with your builder or architect regarding the water, sewer, electric and ... Read More
New members of the Costa Rica forum, introduce yourselves here - 2022 by Julien
Hi all, Newbie on the Costa Rica forum? Don't know how to start? This thread is for you ;) We invite you to introduce yourself on this topic, to share with us your expat story if you are already living in the country, or to tell us more ...
There are Expats all throughout Costa Rica, you will have to be a little more specific on what area of Costa Rica that you are visiting before you can get a definitive answer. Read More
New members of the Costa Rica forum, introduce yourselves here - 2021
OK, , This is hard to respond to when one side is not all there. Canapuntas????? no real understanding. The idiot asks about my attorney???? Have had multiple attorneys, Will use the attorney that gives me the best bang for my buck. Beware forum ... Read More
New members of the Costa Rica forum, introduce yourselves here - 2021
This is his normal rhetoric metrohopper, have been on this forum for over 10 years and when you get replies like his you just regroup and give thanks that stupidity is not contagious. PM me if I can help. Have had eight happy years here with my ... Read More
Any advice on how to move to Costa Rica by samcharlot123
I'm looking to leave America for Costa Rica. I live in Atlanta. Kinda tired of the excessive development, over- populated, hustle that exists here. I would love to get some information about the process of moving to Costa Rica; getting a visa, ...
It is a personal choice, some will say it is paradise and others will will try to deter you (not sure why). Have been here seven years and going strong at 65. We had a lot of people send CHIT our way before we moved and we did not listen. DO NOT ... Read More
Thyroid medications by Roxana Rodriguez31
Hi everyone I'm trying to know if a thyroid medications that I need to take on a daily basis is available in Costa Rica the name is armour thyroid
Go directly to a Farmacia and ask! Read More
Anyone have experience or opinions on prefab construction of homes? by samramon
We are looking to build a home for under $30k. We are finding that to build anything of decent size for that price it pretty much limits us to prefab deals. So far we have looked at Concrepal and MaderasKodiak. Concrepal is very Tico in the sense ...
In my post above, Gustavo is certified. Read More
Anyone have experience or opinions on prefab construction of homes? by samramon
We are looking to build a home for under $30k. We are finding that to build anything of decent size for that price it pretty much limits us to prefab deals. So far we have looked at Concrepal and MaderasKodiak. Concrepal is very Tico in the sense ...
We used Gustavo Quesada of http://arquescr.com/es/en/ . We built in 2014 and Gustavo has become a good and trusted friend. Read More
Panama vs. Costa Rica by Guinness13
Hey Folks, Wondering if anyone has some perspective on retiring in Panama vs. Costa Rica. I've done a bunch of reading so far and have yet to set foot in either country. Feet on the street will be part of the research, but interested in what ...
When we came here in 2010 we were pretty convinced we wanted an ocean view on the west coast. Spent a few days looking at properties in the area and soon decided that we were going to have to get higher in elevation to get the temperatures that we ... Read More
Panama vs. Costa Rica by Guinness13
Hey Folks, Wondering if anyone has some perspective on retiring in Panama vs. Costa Rica. I've done a bunch of reading so far and have yet to set foot in either country. Feet on the street will be part of the research, but interested in what ...
We own our house so rent is not part of my above figure. We live in a rural setting so a car is a must for us. We have fractional ownership of a community pool. We are definitely comfortable and happy! Best of luck in your endeavor! Read More
Panama vs. Costa Rica by Guinness13
Hey Folks, Wondering if anyone has some perspective on retiring in Panama vs. Costa Rica. I've done a bunch of reading so far and have yet to set foot in either country. Feet on the street will be part of the research, but interested in what ...
Hello Guy, would be more than willing to share our experiences! Sean, we lived just outside of Red Deer, Alberta. We live pretty much the same way here as we did in Alberta. There is no doubt that we could live on less but that was not how we ... Read More
Panama vs. Costa Rica by Guinness13
Hey Folks, Wondering if anyone has some perspective on retiring in Panama vs. Costa Rica. I've done a bunch of reading so far and have yet to set foot in either country. Feet on the street will be part of the research, but interested in what ...
We retired in Costa Rica from Canada seven years ago. Not a great amount less as far as cost of living goes. Read More
Thyroid medications by Roxana Rodriguez31
Hi everyone I'm trying to know if a thyroid medications that I need to take on a daily basis is available in Costa Rica the name is armour thyroid
Roaxana; I take Euterox for my Thyroid. It is available under several other names here over the counter. If you were to take a picture of the front of the medication box and ensure it has the strength showing I will ask at the local Farmacia. We ... Read More
Pros and Cons by GuestPoster314
I'm moving CR next year in the San Isidro area, near Mt. Chirripo. I'm curious what you guys have to say about the following... 1. Why did you move to CR & where did you move from? 2. What do you like about living in CR? 3. What do you ...
I agree with you 100% Ginger! Going on eight years and have not encountered an uncomfortable moment. Read More
Pros and Cons by GuestPoster314
I'm moving CR next year in the San Isidro area, near Mt. Chirripo. I'm curious what you guys have to say about the following... 1. Why did you move to CR & where did you move from? 2. What do you like about living in CR? 3. What do you ...
We wanted away from the cold winters, researched Mexico and Belize before Costa Rica. We moved from Alberta, Canada. We like the climate and the people. We dislike the lack of decent beef! We were surprised at how relatively easy it was to adapt to ... Read More
Americans and Canadians - What made you move to CR? by usexpat707
American and Canadian members - I am curious to know what made you move to CR and what keeps you going there? I visited CR for 2 weeks almost 10 years ago. For the last year or so, I have been researching how it would be to live there on a longer ...
We are Canadian and part of it was the brutal winters. Checked out Mexico and Belize for five years and could not see us in either. Fell in love with Costa Rica. Bought property in 2010 built in 2013, moved in 2014. We have integrated ourselves ... Read More
Great Canadian Communities in the Mountains by Kallison505
Hello All, I’m hoping you can help. I’m in my late 50’s, recently separated and looking to live the next part of my life to the fullest. I’m thinking Costa Rica fits the bill perfectly! I’ve heard the mountain region ...
Henrych; I am a homeowner in this development and have been here 7 years. We have a tentative fiber optic contract with ICE (the tentative part is that components are needed from China and are on back order). I presently have Internet via a tower, ... Read More
Renting in Costa Rica before we buy by Lanafromcanada
Hello everyone My name is Alahna. My young family and I are planning on selling our house here in Canada and making the move to Costa Rica. My husband is retired and we are looking for a safe legit place to rent for a few months while our ...
We have been here for seven years and going strong. We hail from Blackfalds, Alberta (close to Calgary). Yes, once you have a residency application submitted you are entitled to stay in country without having to leave, EXCEPT your foreign ... Read More
Any information on moving to Costa Rica by Guest6904
hello, my name is Barry and my wife is Jamie. I am retired Army and have been retired since 2011. we are looking to slow down, relax, loose alot of the stress in our lives. everything I have seen looks and sounds good, but need to do my due ...
Hi Barry If you are already retired I would suggest coming down for a few months and rent a house, Shop and eat locally. Base your travels from your rental and see different parts of the country. Climate varies greatly in very short distances. This ... Read More
how's the weather? by deniserizvi
Hi There! We are planning on moving to CR next spring from the eastern US. We will stay close to San Jose's Central Valley for reliable internet and proximity to the airport but would love some input about weather. I've been looking online ...
We live just outside of Puriscal, which is south west of San Jose. We would be WAY to rural for your daughter! Read More
how's the weather? by deniserizvi
Hi There! We are planning on moving to CR next spring from the eastern US. We will stay close to San Jose's Central Valley for reliable internet and proximity to the airport but would love some input about weather. I've been looking online ...
Normally just rain in the afternoon but there are some days that are a write off in October / November. Read More
Fact Finding Trip by GabrielHippieman
I am looking at retiring and have never been to Costa Rica. I plan on making a few trips to different places. I would like to do a fact finding vacation and was wondering if there is a travel or tour company in Costa Rica that does that.
We had the same experience Samramon, most people in my area built and are very happy with that concept. We were within $200 of our budget. Read More
Fact Finding Trip by GabrielHippieman
I am looking at retiring and have never been to Costa Rica. I plan on making a few trips to different places. I would like to do a fact finding vacation and was wondering if there is a travel or tour company in Costa Rica that does that.
There are a few companies / people who do this but unfortunately I don't have the names. When we came down for the same reason we chose to tour the country on our own and in three weeks put on 2500 km. It was a great way to see the country and ... Read More
Starting the initial Planning by Brian_O
Being closed up by this Corona Virus mess has given me time to research future retirement options with Costa Rica being on the top. Once all travel restrictions are over as trip will be at the top of the list. Being one that likes the water, I ...
We came down in 2010 and weighed the pros and cons of a guided tour and opted to go out on our own. Best choice we ever made. We came across many, many places that one would not see on a tour. We had the same idea of you and our goal was to be ... 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 ...
Top of the screen on the right side. Click on the icon that looks like a conversation bubble. Or simply click on the text name of the person and a dialogue box appears. 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.
If you are in either of those areas you will have good access to the buses. It will pay to check the schedules in your area of choice. We live out in the boonies 17km SW of Puriscal so for us a car is a necessity. The bus goes by at 7 and another ... 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 get that, we visited for five years before retiring here. Our septic tank and field sre SOLID! 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 ...
My neighbor has been here for ten years, flushes, and has not had to have the septic tank evacuated. 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 ...
That will all depend if the house has a septic tank and field properly installed. We have been flushing paper for five years now. Read More
Does anyone know more about Bellazo/Kalia? by jenn garden
Other than their own website I could only find information about them on Trip Advisor which had the same question I had, whereupon one poster criticized us for posting on Trip Advisor as it was not a travel but real estate question and advised us to ...
I have nothing good nor bad to say about this thread and / or Bellazo/Kalia. We first came here in 2010 and looked at many developments, some well established and some not. There was one in particular that I remember but will not name that had ... Read More
Accommodation in Costa Rica: scams you should look out for by Bhavna
Hi, Committing to renting or buying accommodation when youre new to or have not moved to Costa Rica just yet is always a stressful endeavour. Would you like to help us in putting together a handbook of what to look out for when house hunting in ...
I have one that occurred to my friend last week. He purchased three perfectly good lots within a gated community. Water and electricity to all sights. What his lawyer did not research or offer up was an "uso de suela" for this ... Read More
Purchase health insurance by Jomtien811
Thinking about about moving to Costa Rica for weather and cost of living. Since I can’t use my Medicare Insurance, can I purchase insurance thru Costa Rica’s national health plan or any other plan. And, if so, what would be the ...
You cannot purchase medical insurance from the Costa Rica national health plan (Caja). Once you become a temporary resident you must apply for and obtain Caja. Depending on your type of residency and what you declare for income vs. expenditures ... Read More
Bartending as a Female Expat by StacieMarie
Does anyone have any experience working as an expat bartender in CR? I have 20 years experience behind the bar stateside and am looking to retire from life here and begin a new journey. I have been to CR previously, but I suppose I am wondering what ...
Working in Costa Rica I want to work in Costa Rica Read More
Clearing your belongings through customs in Costa Rica by Priscilla
Hello everyone, During ones big move abroad, shipping personal belongings to the host country can be stressful. Customs regulations differ from one country to another and you never quite know what to expect when trying to recover your belongings ...
We did our homework ......... We were pleased. Read More
Living in costa rica prior to Rentista by Josefbh
Am I able to get an apartment, set up shop so to speak and live in Costa Rica while I am applying for Rentista so long as I leave and return on new visa every 90 days? if I understand correctly I need to leave the country for at least a day and then ...
Once you submit your application for residency you will no longer have to exit Costa Rica as you will be given an Expediente form and number. The caveat to that is that if you wish to drive on a foreign driver's license while awaiting you ... Read More
Clearing your belongings through customs in Costa Rica by Priscilla
Hello everyone, During ones big move abroad, shipping personal belongings to the host country can be stressful. Customs regulations differ from one country to another and you never quite know what to expect when trying to recover your belongings ...
We had a steller move with Barry Wilson and Arden Brink. We paid what was quoted before the move and not a penny more. We shipped a forty foot container and it took a few days to clear customs. Not one box opened and nothing broken. Each piece ... Read More
Sending household items to Costa Rica from USA by samramon
Anyone do this? I'm not talking about a shipping container as we aren't shipping that much stuff. What we are interested in shipping is maybe 4-6 boxes maybe 24"x24" of some household stuff like our favorite blender, nutribullet, ...
Please keep in mind the last post was last year. Cheers .... Terry Read More
Income tax to Canada by Sprtxtrm
Hello All, I work for the canadian government and plan to retire soon and move to Costa Rica full time then. Of course I will have my canadian pension and still will have RRSP invested through the years but I will sell all my belongings before ...
Feel free to contact me via a PM. We have been here almost 5 years and have some do's and don'ts that I will not make public! The post above did not answer your question and I will offer the best of a (Canadian non-resident's) ... Read More
Hello from Alberta, Canada by CRdreamer
I just joined the site today!! Looking forward to meeting people in CR and working on a plan to possibly acquire a property with income potential with plans to eventually move to and retire in Costa Rica! I am planning a trip to CR in the spring ...
We are from Blackfalds Alberta, have been here going on five years, and are willing to share as did many who helped us five years ago! Terry Read More
Legal services in Costa Rica by Priscilla
Hello, Legal services can be a headache when you don't have the relevant and necessary information, especially upon moving to a new country. Please share some tips regarding legal services in Costa Rica. What types of legal services might an ...
I am sorry, no. We joined ARCR before we applied for our Inversionista residency. We tried to use them for our application but it did not go well. I was pretty well informed on how an Inversionista application went so when they started asking for ... Read More
Legal services in Costa Rica by Priscilla
Hello, Legal services can be a headache when you don't have the relevant and necessary information, especially upon moving to a new country. Please share some tips regarding legal services in Costa Rica. What types of legal services might an ...
Dumped my ARCR membership three years ago. Was money not well spent. Read More
Buying property by DebP
Is it best to use an attorney...or a Real Estate agent??
You definitely need an attorney! Most "real estate agents" became one by saying they are one. I know two Americans and a Cuban fellow that practice real estate in our area because they decided they could. Read More