gst1212
American looking for information about Costa Rica
Forum posts
95
About me
American
Registration: 10 February 2025
Visiting CR at end of March 2025 by bpwald
Hi, my husband and I live in the Washington DC area and are considering retirement locations. We're looking at not-too-hot and humid places like the central valley in CR. Anyone with suggestions of towns to consider, places to go during our visit, ...
"... more to be PITIED than censured."Same stuff, different day. Read More
Visiting CR at end of March 2025 by bpwald
Hi, my husband and I live in the Washington DC area and are considering retirement locations. We're looking at not-too-hot and humid places like the central valley in CR. Anyone with suggestions of towns to consider, places to go during our visit, ...
To put it in the first person, he would echo the famous refrain of Sergeant Schultz, played by John Banner, on "Hogan's Heroes": "I know nothing." He's a poor, delusional creature, more to be pities than censured. Read More
Visiting CR at end of March 2025 by bpwald
Hi, my husband and I live in the Washington DC area and are considering retirement locations. We're looking at not-too-hot and humid places like the central valley in CR. Anyone with suggestions of towns to consider, places to go during our visit, ...
You miss the point continuously, so why bother?E.g., indefensible comments like, "you have to be rich to live in Costa Rica" as an expat.Lots of people live comfortably in C.R. on $1,500.00 USD/month.Many expats have no interest in becoming ... Read More
Visiting CR at end of March 2025 by bpwald
Hi, my husband and I live in the Washington DC area and are considering retirement locations. We're looking at not-too-hot and humid places like the central valley in CR. Anyone with suggestions of towns to consider, places to go during our visit, ...
More trolling that continues to unravel. Read More
Visiting CR at end of March 2025 by bpwald
Hi, my husband and I live in the Washington DC area and are considering retirement locations. We're looking at not-too-hot and humid places like the central valley in CR. Anyone with suggestions of towns to consider, places to go during our visit, ...
d. April 11, 1856 Read More
Visiting CR at end of March 2025 by bpwald
Hi, my husband and I live in the Washington DC area and are considering retirement locations. We're looking at not-too-hot and humid places like the central valley in CR. Anyone with suggestions of towns to consider, places to go during our visit, ...
The Moras expelled the Filibusterer, William Walker?Wait... I thought the leader of his expulsion, and the national hero, was Juan Santamaria.Are the Moras depicted in any statues in Alajuela or have international airports named after them?Or a ... Read More
Visiting CR at end of March 2025 by bpwald
Hi, my husband and I live in the Washington DC area and are considering retirement locations. We're looking at not-too-hot and humid places like the central valley in CR. Anyone with suggestions of towns to consider, places to go during our visit, ...
Basic Summary: a Quick ReadCosta Rica now under US travel warningStory by Joe LombardiDec 09 Key takeawaysUS Embassy warns of rising robberies, extortion, and property crimes targeting tourists and foreign residents, including forced ATM withdrawals ... Read More
Visiting CR at end of March 2025 by bpwald
Hi, my husband and I live in the Washington DC area and are considering retirement locations. We're looking at not-too-hot and humid places like the central valley in CR. Anyone with suggestions of towns to consider, places to go during our visit, ...
Lowest Dollar Rate Since 2005 Squeezes Costa Rica’s High Season TourismTico TimesBy Tico TimesDecember 6, 2025Costa Rica Exchange RateThe dollar exchange rate in Costa Rica has sunk to its lowest point since 2005, raising concerns across the ... Read More
Relocating and business opportunities [B]Insults by edwinemora
@gst1212....You are here as tourist when you are here...The original post implies relocating as in getting residency and seeking an income, from someone who doesn't have a 'pot to piss in'......The dissertation you gave is for someone pretending ...
[Post under review] Read More
Relocating and business opportunities. by egatewood
Moving, Cost of living, business opportunities
Re.: Cost of living.If one can find a rental unit that consists of the following items, then expat living in C.R. can be quite affordable, relative to the high cost of living in many parts of the USA (other expats or potential expats from other ... Read More
Visiting CR at end of March 2025 by bpwald
Hi, my husband and I live in the Washington DC area and are considering retirement locations. We're looking at not-too-hot and humid places like the central valley in CR. Anyone with suggestions of towns to consider, places to go during our visit, ...
CR COLON Read More
Visiting CR at end of March 2025 by bpwald
Hi, my husband and I live in the Washington DC area and are considering retirement locations. We're looking at not-too-hot and humid places like the central valley in CR. Anyone with suggestions of towns to consider, places to go during our visit, ...
If one should elect to subscribe to the daily WAVE app's current conversion rate update indicator, one could plot the downward slope of the weakening of the USD versus the RC Colon.in recent years.The exchange rate of the dollar has declined in ... Read More
Visiting CR at end of March 2025 by bpwald
Hi, my husband and I live in the Washington DC area and are considering retirement locations. We're looking at not-too-hot and humid places like the central valley in CR. Anyone with suggestions of towns to consider, places to go during our visit, ...
FLUCTUATING CURRENCY: USDs [Dollar drops 27% over three years].< Tico Times (1123.2025Dollar Hits 17-Year Low in Costa Rica as Tourism Feels the ... Read More
Visiting CR at end of March 2025 by bpwald
Hi, my husband and I live in the Washington DC area and are considering retirement locations. We're looking at not-too-hot and humid places like the central valley in CR. Anyone with suggestions of towns to consider, places to go during our visit, ...
@edwinemora A further trollLacking English comprehension.So boring. Read More
Visiting CR at end of March 2025 by bpwald
Hi, my husband and I live in the Washington DC area and are considering retirement locations. We're looking at not-too-hot and humid places like the central valley in CR. Anyone with suggestions of towns to consider, places to go during our visit, ...
Coupled with a DOWNTURN in.. Read More
Visiting CR at end of March 2025 by bpwald
Hi, my husband and I live in the Washington DC area and are considering retirement locations. We're looking at not-too-hot and humid places like the central valley in CR. Anyone with suggestions of towns to consider, places to go during our visit, ...
CRIME:TICO TIMES featured a story this week concerning the decline of tourism in Costa Rica, resulting in the loss of 50,000 jobs in related industries, coupled with a town turn in expats relocating to C.R.A principal reason appears in this STEM ... Read More
Expat banking in CR[B]OT by edwinemora
@gst1212,Consider your source as someone not legit Costa Rica and only as a tourist here that only is a wanna be..An affirmation seeker that kicked the soccer ball out of the stadium with the declaration of available quality health care and left out ...
Such invincible IGNORANCE about one of the world's great cities reveals a continued ignorance that fails to excuse and continues to define the twisted mindset. Read More
Expat banking in CR[B]OT by edwinemora
@gst1212,Consider your source as someone not legit Costa Rica and only as a tourist here that only is a wanna be..An affirmation seeker that kicked the soccer ball out of the stadium with the declaration of available quality health care and left out ...
I wonder if the mudslinger has ever set foot in NYC? Read More
Expat banking in CR[B]OT by edwinemora
@gst1212,Consider your source as someone not legit Costa Rica and only as a tourist here that only is a wanna be..An affirmation seeker that kicked the soccer ball out of the stadium with the declaration of available quality health care and left out ...
"Such invincible IGNORANCE about one of the world's great cities reveals a continued ignorance that fails to excuse and continues to define the twisted mindset." Read More
Expat banking in CR[B]OT by edwinemora
@gst1212,Consider your source as someone not legit Costa Rica and only as a tourist here that only is a wanna be..An affirmation seeker that kicked the soccer ball out of the stadium with the declaration of available quality health care and left out ...
More vapid excrement from a banal "empty barrel" who excels only in making noise."Nueva Putas"?Such invincible about one of the world's great cities reveals a continued ignorance that fails to excuse and continues to define the twisted mindset.More ... 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 ...
Typical bluster.E.g., equating C.R. to Haiti, where over 200 armed gangs have wreaked havoc over the past half decade, with more than half of them laying seige to the capital of Port-au-Prince since 2020.Pure fantasy.I doubt that Edwin Mora has ever ... 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 am reflecting upon my lived experience.Not aggrandizement.People in C.R. could not be nicer to me.They are probably equally interested in my life in the USA as I am of their lives in C.R, including neighbors, merchants, cab drivers, people ... 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 cleaned up some typos and clarified a few items below:I paid my security via a wire transfer. It carried a $60.00 free from my big US bank and a $17.00 fee from Banco Nacional in CR. Not very cost-effective.You can sign up for free to get a WISE ... 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 ...
PS--Apart from a pretty funny typo about an ATM fee carrying "a bit bite," the ACTUAL NUMBER that comports with the fee is $47.00USD on my CHASE debit card (much higher than the old Capital One 360 Mastercard, which no longer works at ATMS in C.R. ... 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 ...
No one ever said that it would be easy.It's all relative.I have no interest in moving to Panama, and am quite content in my little Canton in the exurbs. 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 ...
Some banking thoughts for US expats:I paid my security via a wire transfer. It carried a $60.00 free from my big US bank and a $17.00 fee from Banco Nacional in CR. Not very cost effective.You can sign up for free to get a WISE Alerts daily email on ... Read More
Visiting CR at end of March 2025 by bpwald
Hi, my husband and I live in the Washington DC area and are considering retirement locations. We're looking at not-too-hot and humid places like the central valley in CR. Anyone with suggestions of towns to consider, places to go during our visit, ...
PS--The OTC allowance from my insurance is @$115.00 for each quarter, so when I return I have an accrued amount for two (2) quarters, or six (6) months, therefore I have $215.00 of "house money" to spend on items at CVS, my pharmacy of choice in ... Read More
Visiting CR at end of March 2025 by bpwald
Hi, my husband and I live in the Washington DC area and are considering retirement locations. We're looking at not-too-hot and humid places like the central valley in CR. Anyone with suggestions of towns to consider, places to go during our visit, ...
S/B companion FARE allowance... Read More
Visiting CR at end of March 2025 by bpwald
Hi, my husband and I live in the Washington DC area and are considering retirement locations. We're looking at not-too-hot and humid places like the central valley in CR. Anyone with suggestions of towns to consider, places to go during our visit, ...
Dave and Marcia set continually the gold standard on ex-pat.com.I always find their commentary to be instructive and civil.I always try to pay on my credit card to get the frequent flyer miles/rewards points.This year, I have booked four (4) R/T ... Read More
Visiting CR at end of March 2025 by bpwald
Hi, my husband and I live in the Washington DC area and are considering retirement locations. We're looking at not-too-hot and humid places like the central valley in CR. Anyone with suggestions of towns to consider, places to go during our visit, ...
SHOPPINGa. I do combination shopping for food.b. In out town, I visit some fruit and vegetable stands; a "Chinese market"; MegaSuper; a cheese store; and several bakeries.c. I occasionally head into the provincial capital to shop at Walmart. I ... Read More
Visiting CR at end of March 2025 by bpwald
Hi, my husband and I live in the Washington DC area and are considering retirement locations. We're looking at not-too-hot and humid places like the central valley in CR. Anyone with suggestions of towns to consider, places to go during our visit, ...
HEALTH CARE:a, I renewed a Medismart membership for just over $100.00 for six-months.b. I took advantage of my membership various times in the prior half-year period.c. I found the doctors to be excellent.d. On average, I saved about 40% over the ... Read More
Visiting CR at end of March 2025 by bpwald
Hi, my husband and I live in the Washington DC area and are considering retirement locations. We're looking at not-too-hot and humid places like the central valley in CR. Anyone with suggestions of towns to consider, places to go during our visit, ...
Updates:BANKING:a. If one does not have a pensionista or rentista visa, own property, or is married to a Tico/Tica, 11 banks denied me the possibility of opening a bank account.b. One [BAC] said I could do so after stamping out and showing residency ... Read More
New members of the Costa Rica forum, introduce yourselves here - 2025 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 on your ...
Here follows a lot of material that I gleaned from this site that I found to be useful and constructive.I hope it helps interested parties:HOW to APPLY (step-by-step instructions) for a Pensionado Visa in Costa ... Read More
Visiting CR at end of March 2025 by bpwald
Hi, my husband and I live in the Washington DC area and are considering retirement locations. We're looking at not-too-hot and humid places like the central valley in CR. Anyone with suggestions of towns to consider, places to go during our visit, ...
Once again, Dave and Marcia, with their 20+ years of experience as expats in C.R. and background in US government, demonstrate wisdom and grace.Gracias.Pura vida. Read More
Visiting CR at end of March 2025 by bpwald
Hi, my husband and I live in the Washington DC area and are considering retirement locations. We're looking at not-too-hot and humid places like the central valley in CR. Anyone with suggestions of towns to consider, places to go during our visit, ...
On this forum today appeared a link to some related questions to the Pensionista Visa (but from 2011).I edited the content to what appeared to be the most relevant and useful information (contained below).My question: For those who were ... Read More
SSA benefits letter apostille[B]conflit/insultes by rainagain
@gst1212 This is what you wrote: ...documents cannot be notarized in the USA unless all parties are physically present at the same time and act as signatories to the document on the same date and place: the Notary Public; the petitioner; and ...
Another pathetic rant from an obsessive-compulsive control freak who simply cannot help it.Sad. Read More
SSA benefits letter apostille[B]conflit/insultes by rainagain
@gst1212 This is what you wrote: ...documents cannot be notarized in the USA unless all parties are physically present at the same time and act as signatories to the document on the same date and place: the Notary Public; the petitioner; and ...
The definition of tragedy:" When something starts out humorously and ends in tragedy."The bauble is burst. [Bauble: the mask that conceals and amplifies the face/voice of the actor].@gst1212Good point.@gst1212… you were thorough and[,] I ... Read More
SSA benefits letter apostille by Coladas
Hello all; does anyone have experience with getting a social security letter of benefits apostille? TIA.
@Dave&MarciaYou emerge, once again, as the consummate professionals, and "the 'source authoritative reference'" for comple xC.R. immigration matters (apologies to Art Fleming and to Don Pardo of "JEOPARDY").Your clear, concise, direct, and ... Read More
SSA benefits letter apostille by Coladas
Hello all; does anyone have experience with getting a social security letter of benefits apostille? TIA.
@ rainmakerAs a "serial expat" with six+ years, you add leaven to the conversation.@Coladas/@Sandsagedweller gave no indication whether he was residing the USA or in C.R,I predicated my response based on someone residing in the USA, not in C.R.The ... 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 ...
https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/world/state-department-issues-worldwide-caution-security-alert/ar-AA1Hd2iLUS State Department issued worldwide travelers' warning today.If you are a USC and have not registered for the US DoS STEP program, you should ... Read More
SSA benefits letter apostille by Coladas
Hello all; does anyone have experience with getting a social security letter of benefits apostille? TIA.
Those USC who have not registered for the Department of State's free STEP program should consider doing so online.Here follows today's message:Location: WorldwideEvent: The conflict between Israel and Iran has resulted in disruptions to travel and ... Read More
SSA benefits letter apostille by Coladas
Hello all; does anyone have experience with getting a social security letter of benefits apostille? TIA.
Sorry about the typos, but you get the point.Speaking of DOGE, the SSA intended to make all Social Security beneficiaries communicate with the agency through "X," the platform formerly known as TWITTER.I hope that scheme was rolled back...Also, to ... Read More
SSA benefits letter apostille by Coladas
Hello all; does anyone have experience with getting a social security letter of benefits apostille? TIA.
In the USA, the SSA information is now only available online, andno more USPS mailings with the annual statement of benefits will be forthcoming (effective 2025).A printout of such data may also be retrievable through a local SSA office, though it ... Read More
SSA benefits letter apostille by Coladas
Hello all; does anyone have experience with getting a social security letter of benefits apostille? TIA.
Once again, DAVE & MARCIA rise to the floor with clear, concise, and very beneficial information.Thank you. Read More
Joining In the Fray by Richtl
Hi Folks, I've been browsing this forum for awhile, and guess it's time to join in. My wife and I are in the process of moving from the Northeast US to Costa Rica. We've both lived in many places, and are entering this with few illusions. Also, I'm ...
It costs very little to be polite and civil, and to respect the dignity of those who elect to visit this site.It should not exist as a forum for name-calling, hurling insults, or airing personal grievances.Please do not waste our time or pollute ... Read More
Joining In the Fray by Richtl
Hi Folks, I've been browsing this forum for awhile, and guess it's time to join in. My wife and I are in the process of moving from the Northeast US to Costa Rica. We've both lived in many places, and are entering this with few illusions. Also, I'm ...
LBJ once famously said: "Don't get into a pissing match with a skunk."It pains me (and I suspect other readers of this site) to witness the downward spiral of this site into such petty sniping and carping, well beneath the dignity and intelligence ... Read More
Joining In the Fray by Richtl
Hi Folks, I've been browsing this forum for awhile, and guess it's time to join in. My wife and I are in the process of moving from the Northeast US to Costa Rica. We've both lived in many places, and are entering this with few illusions. Also, I'm ...
Caveat Emptor.Let the buyer beware.I am only sharing information, based on my own experience.The company's offices are located in South Florida.Name: Seguros para Viaje.They cater to Tico travelers (students studying abroad; vacationers; business ... Read More
Taxes for expats in Costa Rica by Cheryl
Hello everyone, When settling in and living in Costa Rica, you will also need to navigate the local tax system. In order to help newcomers and expats ease their tax-related experience, we would like to invite you to share your experience. What ...
Two brilliant posts by the best bloggers on this site, in my estimation. 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 ...
S/B SAN JOSE, of course! 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 ...
LOL: Barrios of San JOSE! 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 ...
John--Great post.Sorry about a few "late night" typos on my post, but one gets the gist of things.I chatted with one of two MediSmart doctors telephonically on call (in English), and she set up the two appointments for me (I mistakenly attributed ... 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 ...
I find the postings of folks like @rainagain and @dave&marcia on this site to be helpful, constructive, and affirming to people considering uprooting from home and hearth and relocating overland or sea to Costa Rica.The effort and experience ... Read More
Joining In the Fray by Richtl
Hi Folks, I've been browsing this forum for awhile, and guess it's time to join in. My wife and I are in the process of moving from the Northeast US to Costa Rica. We've both lived in many places, and are entering this with few illusions. Also, I'm ...
I will soon post a more comprehensive rundown on the pluses and minuses of MediSmart (which I recommend strongly, despite some of its limitations). Read More
Joining In the Fray by Richtl
Hi Folks, I've been browsing this forum for awhile, and guess it's time to join in. My wife and I are in the process of moving from the Northeast US to Costa Rica. We've both lived in many places, and are entering this with few illusions. Also, I'm ...
In the words of the late, great Edward R. Murrow, "Good Night and Good Luck" a <<los Bailando Leones.>> Read More
Joining In the Fray by Richtl
Hi Folks, I've been browsing this forum for awhile, and guess it's time to join in. My wife and I are in the process of moving from the Northeast US to Costa Rica. We've both lived in many places, and are entering this with few illusions. Also, I'm ...
Your last sentence contains the core of your argument...I am only familiar with Limón by "reputation," e.g. the site of drug activity, gang-inflicted murder rates, and heavy drug trafficking to the USA and elsewhere.Also, a very nice ... Read More
Joining In the Fray by Richtl
Hi Folks, I've been browsing this forum for awhile, and guess it's time to join in. My wife and I are in the process of moving from the Northeast US to Costa Rica. We've both lived in many places, and are entering this with few illusions. Also, I'm ...
https://www.vacationscostarica.com/living-in-costa-rica/why-expats-choose-to-leave-costa-rica/No stats here, but a comprehensive rundown on WHY expats become disillusioned and leave C.R.https://www.thatbellalife.com/costa-rica-relocation-faqAnother ... Read More
Joining In the Fray by Richtl
Hi Folks, I've been browsing this forum for awhile, and guess it's time to join in. My wife and I are in the process of moving from the Northeast US to Costa Rica. We've both lived in many places, and are entering this with few illusions. Also, I'm ...
PS-- Thanks to Dave and Marcia for the tip on Banco Davivienda de C.R.,which has a branch in my nearby provincial capital. I intend to look into establishing a second bank account there. Read More
Joining In the Fray by Richtl
Hi Folks, I've been browsing this forum for awhile, and guess it's time to join in. My wife and I are in the process of moving from the Northeast US to Costa Rica. We've both lived in many places, and are entering this with few illusions. Also, I'm ...
I have seen the 80% stat on multiple videos,.One can chose to take it seriously as perhaps based on some empirical evidence or discarded as anecdotal.The point being: people become transplanted in C.R. from other countries and elect to return for ... Read More
Joining In the Fray by Richtl
Hi Folks, I've been browsing this forum for awhile, and guess it's time to join in. My wife and I are in the process of moving from the Northeast US to Costa Rica. We've both lived in many places, and are entering this with few illusions. Also, I'm ...
By "trust your gut," I meant that in the end the decision rests with them, after undergoing a discernment process and "doing their homework."In other words, it's their decision and they will face whatever consequences flow from it.Certainly NOT a ... Read More
Joining In the Fray by Richtl
Hi Folks, I've been browsing this forum for awhile, and guess it's time to join in. My wife and I are in the process of moving from the Northeast US to Costa Rica. We've both lived in many places, and are entering this with few illusions. Also, I'm ...
Since you will own property, you will have no problem opening a bank account.I did a SWIFT transfer from my bank in the NE for a month's deposit, and it cost $50.00 on the US end and $17 on the CR end for transaction fees.They told me it could take ... 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 ...
A six-minute read that I found to be comprehensive and consequential, from a couple who have lived in CUENCA, ECUADOR (happily) for over fourteen ... Read More
Relocating to Costa Rica by kbtracy
Hi, our names are Kevin and Bonnie Tracy. We currently live in Mesa AZ. We are both retired military. We are considering relocated to Costa Rica. We will be visiting Costa Rica in August and will need some help with getting around and also ...
As usual, an excellent and informative post, of great benefit to inquirers. Thank you. Read More
Relocating to Costa Rica by kbtracy
Hi, our names are Kevin and Bonnie Tracy. We currently live in Mesa AZ. We are both retired military. We are considering relocated to Costa Rica. We will be visiting Costa Rica in August and will need some help with getting around and also ...
For clarity, you would need to SIGN UP (with MediSmart) telephonically and CANNOT do so online without a local phone number.This can be done easily (though you may be on hold for a while during the onboarding process).They will even set up ... Read More
Relocating to Costa Rica by kbtracy
Hi, our names are Kevin and Bonnie Tracy. We currently live in Mesa AZ. We are both retired military. We are considering relocated to Costa Rica. We will be visiting Costa Rica in August and will need some help with getting around and also ...
GOOGLE and consider MediSmart for up-front payment with very good doctors, many of whom are English-speaking (my three are).You can choose add-on options, such as "Onco Care."They even have a pet option.It's a pay-as-you-go, discounted medical plan, ... Read More
Relocating to Costa Rica by kbtracy
Hi, our names are Kevin and Bonnie Tracy. We currently live in Mesa AZ. We are both retired military. We are considering relocated to Costa Rica. We will be visiting Costa Rica in August and will need some help with getting around and also ...
PS--1). In addition to JACO and SAMARA, you might wish to scope out:Here are some of the best places to live in Costa Rica as an expat: I International LivingThe Central Valley: Living in the Central Valley means you’ll have easy access to the ... 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 ...
Based on my research and not on your experience, but based on your experience, you made a good point. Read More
Relocating to Costa Rica by kbtracy
Hi, our names are Kevin and Bonnie Tracy. We currently live in Mesa AZ. We are both retired military. We are considering relocated to Costa Rica. We will be visiting Costa Rica in August and will need some help with getting around and also ...
Check your passports and make sure that you have at least three months left before your exit date on the date of your return to the US (a Costa Rican requirement).If not, immediately go up on the Department of State website, backfill and download ... 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 ...
I hate to take up extra space, but I added a couple of vital safety hacks to this post and tightened it up a bit, so you would benefit more from reading this version:[Some thoughts on dining out and a few other random travel pointers that pertain to ... 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 ...
[Some thoughts on dining out and a few other random travel pointers that I have learned as a new arrival, entering my tenth week as a temporary resident in CR]:I've done all of my own cooking to date in my "efficiency apartment," with all new ... 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 ...
Re.: San José: I will go for a medical reason at the Metropolitan Hospital and perhaps combine it with a museum junket or for some shopping but will have my "Spidey senses" tingling and avoid notorious places like the Mercado Central and ... 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 ...
My landlord is scheduling an event in the near future (which he is "catering" but inviting the nine tenants to attend (and to bring a "pot-luck" item, if possible).it will involve futból/soccer match on a big screen in the backyard.I think it ... 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 ...
@rainagain:I did some banking in the provincial capital today since I was turned down by BN and BCR in my hamlet.I also stopped at Walmart, but I am now well-provisioned and just needed some odds-and-ends.One bank in the provincial capital told me I ... 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 ...
@rainagain Great points.Thank you for your illuminating post. 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 ...
One thing I wish I did sooner (and whichI arranged almost literally "at the eleventh hour," was to set up a power of attorney naming one of my stateside siblings and executed by my attorney (while notarized) in my home state.In my native state, the ... Read More
Question- 3 things by LiveWire11C
I thought it might be fun to ask this question of those who have made the move to Costa Rica. Name 3 things: 1 thing you wish you had known before going to Costa Rica, 1 thing you wish you had brought and 1 thing you wish you had left behind.
re.: William YeagerI have already posted on many advantages of joining MediSmart. Not a panacea, but a great advantage for people like me, paying privately and out-of-pocket for health care.A very helpful site is Tiendamia, which operates in places ... Read More
Question- 3 things by LiveWire11C
I thought it might be fun to ask this question of those who have made the move to Costa Rica. Name 3 things: 1 thing you wish you had known before going to Costa Rica, 1 thing you wish you had brought and 1 thing you wish you had left behind.
A). The one thing I wish I had known before going to Costa Rica: How hard it would be setting up a bank account in CR; it took me seven tries over seven weeks to do so in a credit union; I will open another account in a bank in four months [when I ... 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 ...
Hah, Hah!I won't take that bait.That question has already received responses from high-profile folks whose initials were the late "M.A." and the very much alive "A.R."It is a recurrent theme of theirs.They warn that it constitutes a formula for ... 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 ...
Erratum:Re.: DIGITAL NOMADS: $2,000.00--$3,000.00 per MONTH. 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 ...
I moved here less than two months ago. If I may presume to offer a few "newbie" reflections to add to the mix:Accommodation:I live in a small hamlet in an exurb of San José, a twenty-minute ride from the provincial capital.I live in a brand ... Read More
Do I need to travel to Costa Rica to sign documents? by Tufty
Hi everyonemy name is Steve. My brother lived in CR for many years but recently passed away. I live in the UK, and have been told I will either have to travel to CR to sign papers to get probate started, or someone will need to come to the UK to get ...
Getting an appointment at the embassy would be vital before showing up there.Sometimes difficult, and walk-ups are not welcome on most occasions, at the US Embassy in Pavas, San José.As a notary commissioned in a county in my home state (for ... Read More
How to adapt to the expat challenges of everyday life in Costa Rica by Cheryl
Hello everyone, Adapting to everyday life as an expat in Costa Rica can be both exciting and overwhelming: different habits, systems, and sometimes even unexpected surprises! Simple things like paying bills, using public transport, or even ...
I hope that those who are interested will be able to view the video featuring Michael Allen's son, Matthew, and "Johnny," who did so much to enable to make it to Michael's hospital bedside during the four days (last Wednesday through Saturday) ... Read More
Do I need to travel to Costa Rica to sign documents? by Tufty
Hi everyonemy name is Steve. My brother lived in CR for many years but recently passed away. I live in the UK, and have been told I will either have to travel to CR to sign papers to get probate started, or someone will need to come to the UK to get ...
Yes, he was not afraid to name names. Read More
Do I need to travel to Costa Rica to sign documents? by Tufty
Hi everyonemy name is Steve. My brother lived in CR for many years but recently passed away. I live in the UK, and have been told I will either have to travel to CR to sign papers to get probate started, or someone will need to come to the UK to get ...
As I said, he needs to be taken with several large grains of salt, but as we say, "Even a broken clock is right twice a day." Read More
Do I need to travel to Costa Rica to sign documents? by Tufty
Hi everyonemy name is Steve. My brother lived in CR for many years but recently passed away. I live in the UK, and have been told I will either have to travel to CR to sign papers to get probate started, or someone will need to come to the UK to get ...
PS re.: Allen Richárd. Allen often points out that the people most likely to take advantage of "newbie" expats in CR are established expats themselves. I meant to write: "It would not HURT to check WITH HIM or to contact him directly or ... Read More
Do I need to travel to Costa Rica to sign documents? by Tufty
Hi everyonemy name is Steve. My brother lived in CR for many years but recently passed away. I live in the UK, and have been told I will either have to travel to CR to sign papers to get probate started, or someone will need to come to the UK to get ...
Allen Richard often says on his "Unbridled: Living in Costa Rica" website that he can connect people to an honest Tica lawyer who will not take advantage of them. You might wish to try that option. Allen is a controversial figure in his own way, a ... Read More
How to adapt to the expat challenges of everyday life in Costa Rica by Cheryl
Hello everyone, Adapting to everyday life as an expat in Costa Rica can be both exciting and overwhelming: different habits, systems, and sometimes even unexpected surprises! Simple things like paying bills, using public transport, or even ...
The peace which is beyond all UNDERSTANDING... Read More
How to adapt to the expat challenges of everyday life in Costa Rica by Cheryl
Hello everyone, Adapting to everyday life as an expat in Costa Rica can be both exciting and overwhelming: different habits, systems, and sometimes even unexpected surprises! Simple things like paying bills, using public transport, or even ...
I enjoyed his videos, and watched several dozen of him.I hope that D'Angelo and his colleagues and loved ones will know the peace that is beyond all understand as they mourn Michael's passing.May he rest in peace. Read More
COVINTEC construction experience by costaricahomebuilder
The Covintec system sounds great and makes sense on paper but here in Costa Rica all the input I have received from contractors who have used the system over the last 10 years has been negative. I am looking for some positive input as this product ...
The Fischel chain is linked to MediSmart.They did not offer any discount, so on principle, I excluded them from my consideration, although one is located close to where I live.A discount pharmacy chain actually charged less than Fischel quoted me ... Read More
COVINTEC construction experience by costaricahomebuilder
The Covintec system sounds great and makes sense on paper but here in Costa Rica all the input I have received from contractors who have used the system over the last 10 years has been negative. I am looking for some positive input as this product ...
Thanks to the encouragement of DON & MARCIA in the comment stream above, I signed up for MediSmart today.I investigated the website and reviews extensively.CRIE recently gave it an unreserved plaudit.I got long AI responses on ine, then ... Read More
COVINTEC construction experience by costaricahomebuilder
The Covintec system sounds great and makes sense on paper but here in Costa Rica all the input I have received from contractors who have used the system over the last 10 years has been negative. I am looking for some positive input as this product ...
Dave and M-A-R-C-I=A! Read More
COVINTEC construction experience by costaricahomebuilder
The Covintec system sounds great and makes sense on paper but here in Costa Rica all the input I have received from contractors who have used the system over the last 10 years has been negative. I am looking for some positive input as this product ...
Thank you again, Dave and Marsha.I might have to utilize the "Pay-as-You-Go" method, but if I land the MediSmart coverage it would pay for itself with my prescription at the Walmart pharmacy in Heredia, about a fifteen-minute drive from where I am ... Read More
COVINTEC construction experience by costaricahomebuilder
The Covintec system sounds great and makes sense on paper but here in Costa Rica all the input I have received from contractors who have used the system over the last 10 years has been negative. I am looking for some positive input as this product ...
Thank you for the clarification on MediSmart.I knew that most of their providers and services are in San Jose, connected with Hospital Metropolitano, but I think they have affiliates around the country and also are connected with the pharmacies at ... Read More
COVINTEC construction experience by costaricahomebuilder
The Covintec system sounds great and makes sense on paper but here in Costa Rica all the input I have received from contractors who have used the system over the last 10 years has been negative. I am looking for some positive input as this product ...
I am trying to obtain medical coverage through MediSmart or other coverage such as Salud 360, INS, or Medicina Mixta, for some prescription drugs and other items, for pay-as-you-go coverage on a discounted system. I just arrived and am not a ... Read More
COVINTEC construction experience by costaricahomebuilder
The Covintec system sounds great and makes sense on paper but here in Costa Rica all the input I have received from contractors who have used the system over the last 10 years has been negative. I am looking for some positive input as this product ...
I arrived on Sunday and we've had quite a bit of rain already.A Nicaraguan worker in a coffee plantation whom I encountered told me, in Spanish: "Rain is a blessing from God."For their coffee and apple plantation, "Yes."For those caught out in it, ... Read More