Costa RicaTopic Title: The TRUTH about how Gringos are treated here in Costa Rica!
Author DreamIt
Date Posted: 2/21/2019 8:14 AM
I love this! So well said. Embrace the culture, the people and appreciate all Costa Rica and the Ticos have to share rather than trying to impose what you know and are used to on them. You’re the kind I’d expat I’d love to hang out with when/if we finally have the opportunity to move there!
Author FrFalln
Date Posted: 2/20/2019 7:45 PM
CruzinCostarica: Thank you, Thank you!
I am a single, retired woman from Arizona who decided last December 2018 to move here to Grecia, CR, for 6 months to check it out. Not because I wanted to live cheaply (there are other places in the world that are cheaper than here)--I was financially fine in AZ; not because I was running away from personal problems (wherever you go, there you are--your problems will follow you); not because I was unhappy with my home in AZ---I loved where I lived; and not because I was disgusted with our government (no comment)---even there, what you focus on in that realm can make you crazy. The reason I moved? To immerse myself in the culture, to learn from the people, to gain a totally new perspective of the world, and how others live.
The longer I stay here, the more in love with the people I have become. I do live among the Ticos (as well as A FEW like-minded Gringos), and their smiles and love for their families and their country is downright contagious. I am learning the language by speaking with them in my broken Spanglish. When they try to speak English to me (to help me out), I say, "Estoy apprendiendo Espaniol! No hablo bien; habler dispacio, por favor! (I am learning Spanish! I do not speak well; speak slowly, please!" I knew NO Spanish when I moved here---and they love it when I try. Thank you, Google Translate!
So when in THEIR country, I say to those who are coming for whatever reason to treat them with the respect they deserve: you are a guest in their beautiful country. And as CruzinCostarica pointed out: we can learn so much from these people. They are happy. They smile A LOT. And they love that WE love their country.
Think about how you feel when someone from another country or state complains and whines about YOUR home? You tell them to go home if they don't like it.
As for me, I decided I love it here SO much, I will live here 6 months during THEIR summer, and 6 months during mine in the U.S. (Northern AZ, is cool in the summer!). And when I do live here, you can be sure it will be among the amazing Ticos.
LR in Grecia
Author dickgreen
Date Posted: 2/16/2019 5:45 PM
Lovely article, I shall pass it on. Cheers
Author Leila725
Date Posted: 7/21/2017 10:33 AM
Thanks for your message. Embracing the culture is what I plan on experiencing.
Author LongHammer
Date Posted: 7/21/2017 10:23 AM
In other words income tax avoidance is much the same as in the US r about anywhere else. As to cronyism and government bribery, again much like as in the US, but there bribes begin at $50,000 while here it is more affordable.
Now for the subject of schools. Teachers hands are tied as they cannot discipline the children. Knowing that many are out of control. If a child is given low grades the parents often file lawsuits and sometimes threaten or take out revenge on the teachers. They should expand the use of telecommuting/interactive schools is more remote areas as is done in Australia and Alaska. The more qualified teachers unwilling to live and teach in those areas could still be teaching them so they don't need lag behind the city folk.
Expanding on the subject of police I know of a case here where a police car was set on fire as an act of revenge for being given a ticket. I think excessive fines that might take food off the table might incite that. $550 fines for most traffic offences is in my opinion too much. Especially first offenders.
I think way too many of the bad attributes have been learned from the US, The police are equipped and trained mainly by the US.
From movies ant television and Internet many have learned to abuse the medical care system, seeking pensions for disabilities so they can live better than they could working.
Unfortunately, the alternative would be an authoritarian an oppressive government. Costa Rica meets my agenda of not being that.
There is a saying here that applies to honesty: "It is better to ask for forgiveness than ask for permission."
Personally, I thing most all governments are top heavy. The fewer the officials the more difficult it is to hide the responsibilities or the good ones. And to be economically sound, Cota Rica needs to partner better with neighboring countries much as does the European Union. Norway, Sweden, Iceland, Finland would be the best governments to model after. All top rated in government transparency.
As far as abolishing the military in 1948, I think that decision was largely influenced by WWII. With the number of people and the economic base, Costa Rica could not offer much resistance to an invasion. The reality would be they might as well roll out the red carpet and greet them with a band. Fact is with the exception of the nuclear powers, most countries only have a military to repel domestic insurgents and keep their current government in power..
The Constitution of Costa Rica provides that 10% of all revenues goes to the Catholic Church as it is the National Religion. However, at this stage, fewer and fewer belong to the Church and may withhold money for that reason as well. But give this as only one example of people withholding taxes when they see the money would not go to their own benefit.
World Freedom Organization rates Costa Rica as #6 regarding Free Speech. Norway is #1. The USA is #43 and just ahead at #42 is the country of Burkina Faso in Africa with their two radio stations. I will take Freedom over any other obstacles. Tax rebellion is fundamental in a Free society.
Author efn4
Date Posted: 7/21/2017 10:18 AM
There's nothing wrong with what he is saying. He is talking about the lives of the real TICOS not foreigners (because foreigners don't normally use public services). I think expats get way too caught up in the whole "oh if you don't like how things are stay in your country" way of thinking. The issue is that many of the public schools are terrible and the children AREN"T getting a great education. Many REAL TICOS are NOT happy about that and they DO have a problem collecting taxes. Don't assume that 100% of the Ticos are happy with the way things are.
Author lindyluvsCR
Date Posted: 7/21/2017 10:03 AM
The US gov is also corrupt. Anyone who thinks US is wonderful should probably stay there. It is not our job to change CR.
Author ILuvCR
Date Posted: 7/21/2017 8:52 AM
I'm not sure how this thread from 5/6/2010 11:38 EST keeps getting commented on?
I think maybe there are some just looking for an outlet to spew their discontent.
Nothingbut net, scroll up a few comments and then read and heed the comments made by richardschindler.
I totally agree with what he says and if I didn't I get the hell out,
You still have your passport right?
Pura Vida!
Author NothingButNet
Date Posted: 7/21/2017 8:14 AM
Since moving Costa Rica over two years ago, I have become increasingly concerned about the fiscal irresponsibility of the Costa Rican government. Every single native-born Costa Rican I have spoken to feels the same way. In fact, Costa Ricans speak of corrupt government officials and cronyism as a normal facet of life here.
Costa Ricans will also speak proudly of how the military was abolished in 1948 and the funds that would have gone to the military, are now spent on education and health programs. Yet, schools are constantly complaining about a lack of supplies and poor teacher pay.
To make matters worse, the government also cannot seem to collect sufficient taxes to pay for adequate infrastructure. It is a fact, even recognized by President Solis, that only 14% of the population pays the full amount of income taxes owed to the government. More than one Costa Rican has told me that they under-report their income because they do not feel that they will see any useful government spending of their taxes!
Costa Rica is a beautiful country with great potential. I only wonder what the state of financial affairs will be in 20 years. It is probably wise to keep current the passport of the country you are emigrating from in case life here gets untenable.
Author wearebobo
Date Posted: 7/6/2017 4:26 PM
Thank you, this is exactly the information I was hoping to hear.
Author richardschlinder
Date Posted: 7/6/2017 3:47 PM
You are not just visiting a foreign country,you are involved with a foreign culture. Ticos do things their way and it could be frustrating if you let them. The lack of and the poor service s prevalent here. Adjustments will need to be made on your part to fit into a community. First is slow down. Gringos are always in a hurry. TIco's values are not our values. You will learn this as time passes.
Been here twelve years. Wouldn't live anywhere else. Pura vida.
Author wearebobo
Date Posted: 7/6/2017 2:59 PM
I love this, and seven years later, is there anything you would change? We're excited about visiting Costa Rica, exploring Quepos and mostly small communities where we can get to know the locals - with an eye to becoming one of them.
Author Rosebudsmum
Date Posted: 3/7/2013 9:03 AM
Thank you all for taking the time to write your thoughtful replies. Much food for thought as I plan this next phase in my life. I'll keep up with the postings on this site as I plan.
Author Kohl
Date Posted: 3/6/2013 7:56 AM
New Gringa 1964 has told it pretty well!
Author PacificLots
Date Posted: 3/6/2013 7:20 AM
Rosebudsmum,
We have a large contingent of Canadians in our developments down in the southern region of Costa Rica. We've got a bunch from Toronto, Calgary, Edmonton, Saskatchewan, Montreal and Nova Scotia if you have any interest in being near other Canadians. The southern region is the most bio diverse parts of Costa Rica but presently still somewhat remote compared to the Central Valley. We're building the largest master planned community in the country however and have already finished most of the infrastructure including over 30 kilometers of roads, a water system delivering artesian well water at a rate of 200 liters per second and a 200 amp electrical service capable of powering over 1000 homes in this community. Right now we have land AND home packages starting at $150,000 including granite, AC, landscape and a club house with pool. We offer a great 4 day discovery tour about 4 to 5 times a month priced at $299 per person all inclusive, you just pay your airfare to San Jose, we do the rest. You can see more at www.PacificLots.com or contact me directly, [email protected]
Author NewGringa1964
Date Posted: 3/5/2013 11:59 PM
Dear Canadian, Female, Fit and ready for a change, I am Canadian decent from the USA, who came to CR for a change. Please do some reading about CR. If you can check out www.therealcostarica.com you will find a wealth of information that has pretty much all been true from my 1 yr and 2 mos experience. Also if you would identify what your current hobbies are, what your top 5-10 needs desires are: example: I ONLY want to live with an ocean view. I want to live where there are more Ex-Pats (has its plusses b/c things will seem more similar) or I want to live in the rainforest and study permaculture. If you can identify 5-10 things that are the MOST important to you, and email that list to me: [email protected], I will try to make my best recommendations or suggestions. Once you've identified your top 10, and then tell me the top 3 things you hope to gain by coming to CR, I can try to help you narrow down places to live. One of the reasons its so hard to answer a general question like this, is CR is VERY diverse. One stretch of beach IS NOT like another. One city is NOT like any other (only a few actual "cities"), etc. You will hear positive and negative for every choice you make. Living in CR is actually very hard for single gringas (expat women) especially. NOT impossible, but difficult, what makes it so, is subtle, hard to explain. SO knowing ahead of time what you're looking for, will make a big difference. Two important notes: the cost of living is pretty expensive here, unless you are going to live like a tico (costa rican), so be prepared to pay almost as if you were on vacation, it is illegal for you to work here and hard to find any work at all. Last thing, you must learn to speak, read and write some Spanish. Although many CR's do speak English somewhat, YOU will not be able to get by if you do not know or are resistant to learning Spanish. Enjoy your research. My experience has been the full monty, so to speak, love it, struggle with it, feel happy to be here, and then think about moving back to the US. So, enjoy your journey its a fun one. Blessings, Deirdre
Author LAZYCSUE
Date Posted: 3/5/2013 9:56 PM
I too am a single senior female and the smartest thing I did was come to Grecia Alajuela. There is a great expat community here that is very supportive while you adjust to the new culture. After a year + I have decided to buy property on Nicoya to be close to good swimming beaches but will always be glad that I started here in Grecia.
Author rgoulet5
Date Posted: 3/5/2013 9:45 PM
Very inteligently said. Hope to meet you some day. Will be in Quepos area starting Sunday till the 24th. I backpacked across CR about 15+ years ago, stayed in hostels, hotels,etc and stood in buses for hours and met many nice people everywhere. You're right, we are not any better than they; we are all equal people trying to get along with each other till it's our time. Congrats on your success and outlook on life.
Author jetsetc5
Date Posted: 3/5/2013 9:44 PM
Your best bet is to talk to others with you same ambitions! Make sure you travel here and explore and watch out for scammers! Most people our age end up in the Central Valley where all is to be had. Exceptional weather and views! Beaches are not to far away! If your looking for beaches go to Florida. Much cheaper and cleaner and a lot more safe.
Stay away from realtors until you know exactly what your looking for. When you see it you will know.
Call me anytime and I will put you in contact with some clients that rent from me and are looking around to relocate. Right now I have a British man and his new American wife waiting on a USA visa and a Canadian couple that are doing exactly what you want to do. I suggest you rent for 1-2 months and go out and get in touch with Costa Rica.
Good luck in your search!
Author Rosebudsmum
Date Posted: 3/5/2013 8:57 PM
Hear, hear. The biggest dissatisfaction I hear about from expats is that things ( banking, utilities, etc) aren't done the same way as they are in the country they are moving away from. How on earth does that make sense?? Just stay where you are if you think your country's methods are superior.
My concern, selfishly, is that I would like to spend an extended visit in C R from December 2013 to March 2014, as part of my search for my next home. I don't' have a clue as to where to look for accommodation in CR ! I've never been to CR and so don't know what area in which to seek a rental nor what type of simple housing is available. If someone could direct me to a forum or website, that would be so helpful, I would be grateful.
I am a single, fit, active, 60 year old Canadian female who is seeking a dramatic change in lifestyle. Your assistance is hugely appreciated!
Gracias y saludos,
Rosebudsmum
Author PacificLots
Date Posted: 2/22/2013 9:40 AM
Steve Linder
Pacific Lots of Costa Rica
www.PacificLots.com
305-295-0137 direct
877-481-0300 US only toll free
Read our blog: www.PacificLots.com/Costa-Rica-Blog/
Photos of our Developments http://picasaweb.google.com/pacificlots
Author oghavami
Date Posted: 2/21/2013 10:32 PM
How can someone contact you to chat about it?
Author Kohl
Date Posted: 9/26/2012 1:54 PM
'The crime (three cops killed this month), the crowds, get a dog, lock your doors, etc" could be written about CR.
It was announced today that CR has the highest robbery rate, http://www.amcostarica.com/morenews2.htm for Sept 26.
So please do not expect 'shangri-la'.
Healthcare will be less expensive, but don't expect CAJA to provide everything you need in a timely manner.
The majority of people are very nice.
For stacek38, you really need to reconsider schooling/education for your son, so pick a school BEFORE you decide on a location to live. Don't give them a cursory glance but return a few times to see what is being taught and how.
Maybe not an international school, but consider a bilingual school. Please read this that was in today's online newspaper, http://www.nacion.com/2012-09-26/Economia/Uno-de-cada-cinco-alumnos-estudia-en-centros-privados.aspx
The standard in education in many of the public schools has dropped, with a strike being in the works, since many of the basic necessities are being withdrawn. Some school require that students provide their own toilet paper and soap...
I have lived here, many years as well.
Author stacek68
Date Posted: 9/26/2012 4:21 AM
Hola,
What an accurate account of life in general not just life in Costa Rica. I thoroughly enjoyed reading it! Thank you.
I was an Aussie exchange student to Costa Rica in 1986 and fell in love with 'Tico' ways. For 5 more years I travelled to other Central American countries but always came 'home' to my host family for love and support.
It's been 25 years, but the sense of community that I felt is something that I too want my boy (12 yers) to experience. In January, we are coming for a year to live with my Desamparados parents for that reason, and that reason alone. The auction for my house is in 2 weeks and the Universe will make it happen.
Thank you again for reinforcing my decision to bring my boy across the other side of the world - not for financial gain but because of a way of life. He will not be enrolled in an International school either as I beleive that his Spanish acquisition will enrich his experience tenfold.
What a great attitude you have..... and thanks again.
Author bluewind
Date Posted: 2/22/2011 7:54 PM
First, I really enjoyed reading your post. Difinitely an honest perspective of CR. I am currently living in Tampa and have been in touch with the CR Embassy to apply for a pensionado visa.
This will probably sound nieve, but that "smell" you described can also be found where I live!
The crime (three cops killed this month), the crowds, get a dog, lock your doors, etc.
All I want is to live someplace where crime isn't running rampant, where housing and health care isn't bankrupting you and where people are actually friendly. Any place in CR like this?
Author brucecohen
Date Posted: 2/22/2011 2:57 PM
That was great!!!
I have been down in costa rica 24 years full time..that is much different that 29 years 3 weeks at a time...i agree on some of your insight..I a married to a tica..but never left..About the plublic Schools...thats a joke my friend..i think Jefro Bodine went to a better school.. The cr plublic education is bad real bad..If any body out there WANTS THE NO BULL NO FRILLS INFO /YES WE ARE SELLING YOU SOMETHING..STAY AT MY PLACE FOR A MONTH OR TWO..LEARN THE GOOD THE BAD..i LOVE COSTA RICA FOR MY OWN REASONS/ www.rentcostarica.com/rent126.html call me direct 50683070164 50622897486 thank you
[email protected]
Author bluewind
Date Posted: 2/13/2011 5:45 PM
All I can say is WOW!! I have been reading and reading many blogs from many websites, and none came across as so honest and sincere.
I am a retired teacher living in the USA (US citizen) and am beginning the process of trying to get a pensionado visa to move to CR.
Your article helped to reduce some of my anxiety obout such a huge move.
Your article helped me to slow my thinking down and focus on what is really important about such a move.
Author myPlaya
Date Posted: 7/4/2010 9:25 PM
Well written and true. My wife and I retired to Costa Rica 6 years ago on a full time basis. We do live in a mostly Gringo area, we're Canadians, but we get along fine with Costa Ricans.
I don't see much difference in Costa Ricans from the Canadians I lived with most of my life.
We're heading back to Canada when our house sells, but after 6 years I can say it's been a great adventure.
I prefer to live in Costa Rica than any other latin country. It is truly the best country in Central America.
Author pato23
Date Posted: 7/1/2010 2:58 PM
CR, and the rest of Central and parts of South America in general, same crap, different smell. CR has good PR and lots of sugar coated publicity. Now overcrowded (with immigrants from the US Citizens, Canadians and EU, many are young PT's not legal CR residents nor retirees , teaching English or working in tourism for resident investors.... "black", going out every 90 days. Most websites, travel, tourism and real estate are put up and manged by gringo redidents or ex residents now living back home or over in Panama or Nicaragua, Ecuador, etc. 50-60% of those coming to relocate in CR leave within a year, to another country or return home. At low end are the Nicaraguan and Spouth American immigrants, legal and illegal, who do the "dirty jobs" educated Ticos will not do, same as US. The immigrant barrios in San Jose very dangerous, outside SJ, keep your doors locked, get a Dog for security, petty theft everywhere. The only CR website (and its links) which tell the truth is http://www.therealcostarica.com/
another forum, excellent posts from ex pats, truthful, all sides political and social issues..based in Nica, covers all of Central America
http://central-america-forum.com/
There are other Ex Pat forums and BB's that range from virulent anti-Costa Rica (based in Nica) to sugar coated and folsky 'come on down and live in paradise' BB's, user groups and bloqs.
If someone is from your own country and speaks your language and becomes 'friendly', the next thing they'll do is try and sell real estate or offer you long term rentals, go down yourself, travel around a bit low profile and check out locals renting or selling, knowledge of Spanish required to cope and deal on your own, if not hire a local native guide/driver-owner per diem, check out on http://www.localyte.com/ 170 countries, site is in English. Type in your detination and ask questions, most all locals, some long term ex pat legal residents working in tourism as well, no 'real estate' agents nor 'relocation coaches and seminars' har har LOL. When you find the place that resonates with you and fits your budget, fine. You need no one's approval, its your life and your time and your own dime!!!! Be aware. Be Safe. saludos.
I na Ex pat 24 years in Central America, vet, recovering Alcoholic, cannot bs a bs artist, but watch out, I almost got taken to cleaners twice by gringos years ago, let my guard down!!!!!
Always use common sense, never 'hurry', thats life in the tropics!
Author CruzinCostarica
Date Posted: 7/1/2010 2:48 PM
Hi Tireswing, glad to help
If you want, a 5 minute Hello on the phone, I actually know some great places in the Uvita area and others, and will be down there with my family this weekend, email me back a contact number to [email protected], and I'll call you when you say it's the best time :-)
Raymond
Author tireswing
Date Posted: 7/1/2010 8:40 AM
Great insight and advice. I'm planning a 3rd return to CR. I have spent some breif time in the Punta Uva area and would like to investigate the area further. Although I would love to return to the "same" place "time" has a way of changing all. Any suggestions or links for modest off season places to call home that could extend into high season time would be greatly appreciated. I can't seem to open the private message option for "The TRUTH about Gringos writer who appears to be appealingly honest, knowledgeable, and experienced and a desirable person to communicate with when seeking advice or just a few pointers about "getting to know" an area.
Author abesmith
Date Posted: 6/2/2010 3:11 PM
It seems I'm getting all negative comments about going to Costa Rica. So, between Central America and the Caribbean, to where should I go to escape America?
Author pharg
Date Posted: 6/2/2010 1:49 PM
If you're thinking about moving to C.R., two tidbits of advice:
(1) take a guided tour such as George Lundquist's,[ but be prepared for some bias & sales pitches in his 4 day, 3 night presentation] which is informative and intense - meet expats, see areas, "buy one of my lots", etc.
(2) don't even think about it until you stay for a few months as a renter
Author pato23
Date Posted: 5/31/2010 3:58 PM
If "sticky' is not for you and you want the beach, in any tropical lowland, anywhere on the globe (The tropical lowlands of CR are about 650 mile north of the Equator), best you stay home. The Highlands (Central Valley), cool at night, can get humid during the day. Stay home, save your time, money and grief. This is not "Burger King" you cannot have it your way!!!!!!!!!!
Author ld1244
Date Posted: 5/31/2010 10:27 AM
you certainly seem knowledgeable. we, and a few other couples, have been discussing much of what you write about -- the disappointment we feel about the US, and our desire to possibly retire to Costa Rica. One question to begin with...we do not like humidity...does that immediately limit us to the central area? we love the idea of being near the beaches...but sticky is not for us.
Author akin47
Date Posted: 5/26/2010 9:49 AM
Thank you so much for a very sincere narrative about Costa Rica, and how to appreciate it and its people.
akin47
Author emhenry
Date Posted: 5/25/2010 9:28 PM
What a moving entry. I have no desire to move into a gringo enclave, either. I am in love w/ the central american people I have met, and want to live among them, not behind a huge security gate. That said, how do the Ticos afford to own homes? Are there no non deluxe properties under $300,000?
Thank you.
Author JungleHeights
Date Posted: 5/25/2010 1:05 PM
Gracias, Thank you for posting that. I have been researching moving to Costa Rica for some time now. I have visited 4 times and really love the Country and Citizens, but have been concerned about the new laws and reports. I have to remember to keep it in context as for every report of a deportation, there are thousands with out problems.
Rj
Author pato23
Date Posted: 5/11/2010 4:15 PM
Same here years ago in El Salvador when there was a large 'British Club', UK and Commonwealth country members, most of the Brits have moved on, few left here, gone on to Guatemala or other places...they do tend to stick together, only a few I have met traveling speak decent Spanish.
Also Costa Rica itself is way over rated for what it offers (except for eco tourism), many perons, such as the first poster on this thread, meet and marry their spouses in US and other countries so have a social network...the spouse/fiance/partner and his or her extended family, to support them on arrival, very common with Latin American, Filipina and other Asian women. If you are looking to relocate investigate countries not so popular, crowded and expensive as CR, especially if you are indepenent, don't need to be led around like a child, speak the local language. In some rural/small town areas of Latin America away from Condos and Ex Pt Bars a single can live s little as 500USD a month, a couple 800USD or so, minimum. So start reading up in English, Spanish, French, German and other languages on a broad scope concerning Latin America
click on, and choose your country_ http://www.zonalatina.com/Zlpapers.htm
Author pleman
Date Posted: 5/10/2010 6:34 PM
bravo ! I could not agree more. when I lived in mallorca for 13 months I met a lot of brits who never tried to learn language , culture , anything. they went to british bars and stayed around other brits exclusively. what a waste. why would you want to move to a place thats the same as where you already are ? just stay home.
Author zuchero
Date Posted: 5/10/2010 12:35 AM
its very truth... sometimes we take our living from granted and complaint to much for everything!!! I say it time to start living life in a Pura vida style!!!
