I am planning to move to Costa Rica from the U.S. to start a new life. Do yo have any advice for me?

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PacificDreamer

You need to live there for at least one full year before committing to MOVING there for good. There are lots of programs where you can stay with a family and it's highly recommended. While in their home you can learn a lot about the country, the language and and make some life long friends.

You'll want to experience the rainy season (May-NOv) and the dry season, (Dec-April). Travel and check out the different parts of the country as they vary SO much. Do you like it hot, cool, near a beach, big city, around tourists, in the mountains? They have it ALL. You would have to find where YOU are most comfortable.

If you do decide to make Costa Rica your HOME, be WISE to those who want to take advantage of you when it comes to renting/buying a home, buying a car, etc.

Don't bring anything with you that you don't NEED. Learn to live on as little as possible (forget about the material world).

If you have a job with insurance coverage that you won't be able to continue once you move, get as many appointments as you can while still in the US and covered under your insurance. A dental cleaning, over all health check up, blood work, etc. Women should get a pap smear, mamogram, etc. And see if you can get copies of all your health records to bring with you.

Don't plan on bringing or wearing any flashy jewlery. Store it in the US or give to family/friends. Invest in a good back pack and bring your camera!

sprinks2233

they don't have a phone!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

The Main Man at Yahoo

Dont bring to much luaagage,until you know youare gonna like it there. learn some Spanish.

Rishi

It will be a very nice experience.

United States actually is a country in which you only work, work, work and work.

I've visited Costa Rica and it's a very nice place, I would say that if you're planning to live there for the rest of your life, go ahead!!!

You have to learn spanish, it's not so difficult, try to socialize with people and try to find a good job, and try to life well as you life in US.

smirf

Get ready for a great experience.

There are many real estate firms that can help you look around for land or properties to rent or purchase. Many of them are international firms, so you can start looking online right now. Just google it, but go for reputable firms that will be serious about business.

Read "La Nacion", Costa Rica`s most respected newspaper to learn about the country. http://www.nacion.com/ln_ee/english/

There`s plenty of hot water for showers here, and you can always go back to the US if things don`t work out. So don`t listen to the negative comments people have left.

Criminality is not a major problem. Like in any other country, be careful and use common sense. Once you get more used to your surroundings, youÂ´ll feel 10 times more comfortable and safe.

Definetely learn spanish to enjoy interacting with people here. Also to enjoy the culture.

I am sure you will be able to find a new life full of happiness here. Less complicated and in good company with your loved one!

rawraw1952

Well from what i've have read people are leaving costa rica and moving to Panama because of Crime& High taxes being assessed to foriegners.Goto site(visitpanama.com)for more info...

Rachel

Learn Spanish, learn to haggle, forget about hot water, once you go to another country you can't ever go back.

costaricense

hi im living in costa rica "jaco" have you moved here ? if you need any help on your move im here to help you

good luck
elena

Ferx S

Learn Spanish write away!! although most locals speak English. Get a place near a shopping center it will help. Get yourself an car and a drivers license. And go to a Simba Muscial Concert when you get a chance

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