802mark
From: Panama
6/29/2011 17:21 EST
I didn't write this and I don't know the man's name who did. But I thought it was well worth the read so I am posting it.
"I thought perhaps another type of post might be of interest, one written by someone who has no hate or axe to grind, a perhaps less prejudiced and more objective view of what life is really like in Costa Rica. I know in advance some will not agree with this point of view, but here goes.
Costa Rica is no longer a good choice for expats as a retirement home, or a place to raise a family. It is dangerous, expensive, xenophobic. Crime is high and rising rapidly, the judicial system is non-functioning. The chances you will be the victim of a property crime are quite high. Very few Costa Ricans are trustworthy, and you as a foreign crime victim can expect zero to no help.
Costs for many necessities of life are higher than they are in the part of the world you may come from. Fuel, motor vehicles, food, electronics, real estate, and many other items, especially imported ones are heavily taxed, and make that Costa Rica is no longer a bargain by any stretch. If you choose to buy property in Costa Rica, there is very good chance that you will have a very difficult time selling the property without taking a large loss when it is time to leave.
Most Costa Ricans, especially the white, central valley population are racist and xenophobic. A significant percentage of the Costa Rican population dislike almost all foreigners. If said foreigner happens to be brown, black, or yellow, they are seen as inferior racially. Citizens of the U.S.A. are especially disliked by many, even though some Costa Ricans may seek to emulate their lifestyle. Costa Ricans are generally very two-faced and although they may not express their dislike for you to you directly, however, as soon as you turn your back.....
If you are a non Costa Rican looking for somewhere to relocate, I would suggest that you look somewhere else in Latin America, this is no longer the place to be. Too many negative aspects to living here have made other places much more attractive. Yes, it is pretty, the climate is divine, but most come to hate the place over time.
If you are a foreigner looking for a vacation spot, Costa Rica may still hold some attraction, but bring lots of money. Realize that you as a foreigner are seen as a favorite victim of crime and act accordingly. If you are a backpacker, skip Costa Rica. If you are a nature lover, and are aware of the risks here, this may be a good vacation spot for you.
Having said all of the above, there are people that migrate here, and find it to their liking. I feel they are a significant minority, most choose to leave after they learn what "the real Costa Rica" means."
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