I was surprised to read a US Embassy security message from the U.S. Embassy in San José, forwarded to me by one of our real estate agents, who is an American citizen. You can read the US Embassy Security message at the end of this blog in case you haven’t received it yourself. In this…
You are here to learn all about tipping in Costa Rica. In most countries, you’re expected to tip, even if you’re not happy with the service. In others, tipping is simply not done. You just arrived at the international airport in Costa Rica. As soon as you walk outside arrivals, 10 guys jump on you,…
When selling your home in Costa Rica, the most important thing is to find an excellent real estate agent to make the entire process easy and efficient. However, the main question is how to find an excellent real estate agent who is able to promote your home better than others? The best agent may not…
When the weather is hot, you need to order a granizado, also called a copo. Summertime in Costa Rica is around the corner although we really have an eternal spring. The December winds are making overtime and we’re almost in Easter week or “Semana Santa”. Therefore, we still have a lot of winds. It keeps…
Have you noticed that Ticos have flaws, just like we all do? But let me show you that they have different flaws than you and I have. Sometimes these flaws are funny. And sometimes they’re quite the opposite. And that’s when you need to keep your cool! Costa Ricans, we call them Ticos, have a…
Estimated Reading Time: 5 Minutes When you live in the United States, as we do, you tend to take water for granted. In the 30 years we’ve been living in Washington DC we’ve had a water interruption only once. And the limits of our concern generally are the hope that the pipes won’t freeze at…
Estimated Reading Time: 5 Minutes Disappointed about living in Costa Rica? All that glitters is not gold! Some who have moved here found out that is also true for Costa Rica. At least for a few. I personally think it’s terrible to have to live in a place that you hate, no matter where it…
Estimated Reading Time: 4 Minutes The increasing demand for secure and, budget-friendly housing units has led many people to turn towards portable buildings. It is totally a new concept in the construction industry. Manufacturers can build these structures in a closed unit and can deliver them to customers in the form of a modular building.…
Stopping at a traffic light in Costa Rica can bring a lot of surprises, driving is different. A traffic light in Costa Rica creates a surprising business center. A traffic light is a great place to try to sell you something or beg for money. Because there is nowhere to go but wait for the…
Estimated Reading Time: 4 Minutes It’s not every day that you move to another country, so here are some must-read moving tips for you. There are many reasons for expats to move to Costa Rica, from its unique and beautiful natural appeal to the rich and diverse cultural heritage and business opportunities. One thing remains…
Estimated Reading Time: 5 Minutes There are always reasons you should NOT purchase a Costa Rica property. Cultural differences can be obstructive, especially if you are not aware of them and your neighbors could be one of them. Some of those issues, your real estate agent might or might not be aware of. Your agent doesn’t live there…
Estimated Reading Time: 5 Minutes Those who own a vehicle in Costa Rica should know about RITEVE or Vehicle Inspection in Costa Rica. Why? You don’t carry a valid RITEVE sticker on the right side of your windshield? Then you are bound to receive a ticket and a traffic inspector can confiscate your license plates.…