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The phrase “Ugly Americans” in Costa Rica is usually not about appearance or nationality itself, but about certain behaviors some foreigners—often Americans, but not only Americans—are perceived to display abroad. It’s a long-standing expression used worldwide, including in Costa Rica. It’s really easy to be an ugly American in Costa Rica if you want to be one. There is an ugly American in every country, not only in Costa Rica (and I don’t mean physically ugly). The 1958 novel that became the 1963 movie starring Marlon Brando has made such a deep impression on the public that the term “the ugly American” has stuck with everyone.
Most people are ugly for a reason. Some had an ugly mom or dad, and others have become ugly through some bad experiences in life. Others become ugly because of a bad experience in Costa Rica. Society creates ugly people, and the more a country develops, the uglier its people become.
Today, I’d like to get into the Ugly American issue, or better said, the ugly foreigner, and how not to become one of them. To most Ticos, no matter which country you come from, you’re a Gringo. So, for this blog’s sake, let’s change the name Ugly American into Ugly Gringo.
Foreigners from more developed countries tend to be arrogant and condescending. To adapt to your new home country, arrogance is the wrong attitude and not a good start. An ugly Gringo in Costa Rica is embarrassing for all the other expats who are living in Costa Rica. Why do I touch on this topic? I’m sure you want to be a happy expat in Costa Rica, especially if you’re going to buy a home here.
The 7 reasons
What could be the reasons to become an ugly Gringo in Costa Rica?
- The locals are stupid because they think differently.
- Having a low tolerance for the Latin people in general.
- Believing you have the right to order others around because you are better educated.
- The locals do everything wrong because they do things differently.
- Screaming at everyone because you disagree with them.
- Ordering everyone around because you have money.
- Wagging your finger at them.
Better and smarter?
Every once in a while, we get a client like that. Generally, in email conversations before their arrival, they stand out like a red flag. I’m not talking about the type A personality now. I’m talking about the people who think they’re better, wiser, have more money, and are better educated than the local population.
In my experience, most foreigners who have moved to Costa Rica are open to the idea of starting a new life, welcome interaction with locals, and lead happy lives. If you want to live a happy life among local residents, you first need to understand their habits, language, and reasons for being different from you. If you behave like an arrogant person when moving to Costa Rica, read my blog “is Costa Rica Paradise or Hell” and you’ll get the idea.
I really hope this article helps you to decide not to be an ugly American in Costa Rica. Do your homework, feel free to comment on this blog, and share this article on your social media. Would you like to learn more about buying property in Costa Rica? Then request a Zoom meeting with me now.
