What do expats find most challenging?
We asked expats and digital nomads what they find the most challenging about the local culture in Costa Rica. They wrote...
"One of the most challenging aspects of Costa Rican culture that expats find is the concept of “pura vida” or living life to the fullest and taking things as they come. This can be difficult to understand and navigate for newcomers as it goes against the typically fast-paced, time-oriented Western lifestyle. Additionally, Costa Rica is a very tight-knit community where the concept of personal and private space isn't as pervasive as it is elsewhere. This can be difficult for expats, who may need more privacy and alone time, to adjust to. Furthermore, the local language of Spanish can also be a major obstacle that expats need to overcome in order to feel more settled in their new home," wrote a member who made the move to Costa Rica.
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RelocateNow Costa RicaRelocateNow Costa Rica's clients who run through the RelocateNow Program get quick results in formulating and successfully executing our laid out plan for moving to Costa Rica! Expert consulting for future expats in Costa Rica who wish to fast track the process of their move by receiving the specialized information they need, trustworthy connections within the country, and high level 1:1 support through the entire process.
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Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.
"I think that banking can be a challenge and setting up insurance along with other services such as your electric, phone and internet services," explained one expat living in Samara, Costa Rica.
Other Questions:
- What do I need to know before retiring in Costa Rica?
- How do I meet people in Costa Rica?
- What is life like in Costa Rica?
- Is there a lot of crime in Costa Rica?
- Is there a lot of diversity? Are people in Costa Rica accepting of differences?
- What are the schools in Costa Rica like?
- Is the cost of living in Costa Rica high?
- What advice do you have for expats having a baby in Costa Rica?
- What are healthcare services like in Costa Rica?
- Is the cost of living in Costa Rica high?
- What type of recreational facilities are in Costa Rica?
- What is the weather like in Costa Rica?
- Are there good restaurants in Costa Rica?
- Where will I buy groceries and do other shopping in Costa Rica?
- What are the visa & residency requirements in Costa Rica?
- Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Costa Rica?
- What do I need to know when buying property in Costa Rica?
- Are foreigners allowed to own property in Costa Rica?
- What appliances are typically included in a rental?
What do expats find most challenging?
If you live in Costa Rica, newcomers to Costa Rica would love to hear your answer to this question.
About the Author
Joshua Wood, LPC joined Expat Exchange in 2000 and serves as one of its Co-Presidents. He is also one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC
Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.
Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.