What do I need to know before moving to Playa Ocotal?
When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Playa Ocotal, they said...
"Playa Ocotal is a small beach town located in the Guanacaste province, known for its serene environment and beautiful black sand beaches. The official language is Spanish, so learning the language or at least basic phrases can be beneficial. The cost of living is relatively high compared to other parts of Costa Rica, due to its popularity among tourists and expats. The local currency is the Costa Rican colón, but US dollars are widely accepted. It's important to note that the rainy season, known as the "green season", runs from May to November, with the heaviest rainfall usually in September and October. Healthcare in Costa Rica is of a high standard, with both public and private healthcare systems available. Expats are advised to get comprehensive health insurance that covers medical evacuation, as serious medical emergencies may require transport to a larger hospital. The crime rate in Playa Ocotal is relatively low, but petty theft can occur, so it's advisable to take standard precautions to protect your belongings. Public transportation is not very reliable or frequent in Playa Ocotal, so having a car can be beneficial. However, the roads can be challenging, especially during the rainy season. Costa Rica has a slower pace of life, often referred to as "Tico time". This can be a significant cultural adjustment for expats used to a fast-paced lifestyle. The local cuisine is a blend of native foods and Spanish influences, with rice and beans being staple foods. Finally, it's important to understand the local customs and traditions, as Costa Ricans are very proud of their culture. They are generally friendly and welcoming to foreigners, but showing respect for their way of life will go a long way in helping you integrate into the community," commented one expat who made the move to Playa Ocotal, Costa Rica.
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Costa Rica Legal Residency is an articulately bi-lingual boutique firm with 15 + years of successful experience and exclusive focus on Costa Rica Temporary and Permanent Residency, Renewals, Digital Nomad, and Citizenship. Located minutes from the Department of Immigration.
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Costa Rica Legal Residency is an articulately bi-lingual boutique firm with 15 + years of successful experience and exclusive focus on Costa Rica Temporary and Permanent Residency, Renewals, Digital Nomad, and Citizenship. Located minutes from the Department of Immigration.
Connect
Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.
Other Questions:
- What should I pack when moving to Playa Ocotal?
- Where should I setup a bank account in Playa Ocotal?
- Will I be able to find a job in Playa Ocotal?
- What is life like in Playa Ocotal?
- What do expats in Playa Ocotal appreciate most about the local culture?
- What do expats find most challenging?
- Is there a lot of crime in Playa Ocotal?
- Is there a lot of diversity? Are people in Playa Ocotal accepting of differences?
- What are the schools in Playa Ocotal like?
- What are healthcare services like in Playa Ocotal?
- What are medical services in Playa Ocotal like?
- Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Playa Ocotal?
- What are emergency services like in Playa Ocotal?
- Will I need to travel to see a specialist?
- Are common prescription medications available in Playa Ocotal?
- How are local medical facilities in Playa Ocotal?
- As a foreigner living in Playa Ocotal, will I have access to public healthcare? What is it like?
- What have your experiences during the pandemic with the local healthcare system been like?
What do I need to know before moving to Playa Ocotal?
If you live in Playa Ocotal, newcomers to Playa Ocotal would love to hear your answer to this question.