Costa Rica (Early Retirement part 2)
My wife and I recently returned from a week long vacation in Costa Rica. We chose Costa Rica as it is our first choice of place to move for early retirement. (see http://www.happypsychotic.com/250/early-retirement/) While vacationing, we chose not to do much of the touristy stuff because we really wanted to try to get an idea of what it would be like to really live there as “one of the people”. Now, we would never completely blend in with our pale skin (although we both tan quite nicely!), and we wouldn’t have a day job paying $2/hr (which is not uncommon), so we would probably always be noticed as “outsiders” to a certain extent.
Anyways, in a nutshell, we found Costa Rica to be all we had hoped for. The scenery alone was utterly amazing and beautiful. The temperature and weather was perfect (we had no rain and between 25-30 degrees Celsius all week – including the nights). Everyone we talked to, from the real estate agent, to taxi drivers, to shop owners, to people on the street, were all very friendly and helpful.
The way of life there is so relaxed, it took a few days to get used to just taking your time wherever you go (I’m sure this has a lot to do with avoiding overheating yourself). Some stuff is super cheap like public transportation and accommodations and other stuff is equal to Canadian/American prices like fancy restaurant food. Since many people are very poor in Costa Rica, and there is no type of welfare system, I’m guessing there are ways to live very cheaply there (regarding necessities like food).
We always felt safe there, we were told by several people that there are very few violent crimes committed, but petty theft is quite common (to be expected when people are working for $2/hr)
The beaches, the wildlife, the landscapes and everything else was simply breathtaking and awe-inspiring. When I left I was very sad and have already started planning a return trip for a longer period.
Could I picture myself retiring there? Yes, absolutely, as soon as possible. I will be working on my Spanish.
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