|
Baby boomers love Costa Rica. The majority of North Americans currently residing in Costa Rica are in their 50s and above. Many more are contemplating the move, in search of more congenial weather and a more relaxed lifestyle. Prior to making the big decision, the sensible approach would be to experience living in Costa Rica for a while like a local, and the best way to get a taste of the local way of life is by renting a private home in a residential community. Some examples on how the Costa Rican way of life is different from that in North America: Shopping in Costa Rica is not limited to shopping malls, department stores and supermarkets. You will be delighted to know there are easier and more economical ways to buy what you need to live – Lynn Farris, an American writer who lives in Costa Rica, wrote an interesting article on this subject: Grocery Shopping in Costa Rica, Part 1 and Part 2 You will discover a very different range of products and supplies in local shopping outlets. After a while, most foreigners realize they can find the same products to satisfy the same need, just packaged and branded differently. Rather than buying American imports, those who learn to substitute what they are accustomed to with something new, like a local, Mexican or El Salvadoran brand, are often rewarded by substantial savings. Costa Rica has many fast food outlets and gourmet restaurants just like those in North America, but they also have ‘Sodas,’ which is where the majority of Costa Ricans would go for a casual meal. If you feel comfortable eating in a soda, there is a good chance you will feel comfortable living in Costa Rica. Learn more about eating out in Costa Rica in this article. Most people who come to Costa Rica to retire prefer to live in a gated community, for a variety of sensible reasons. A community with a gated and manned entrance is much more protected from theft and intrusion; by paying a homeowners' association fee, chores like garbage disposal, utilities and landscape maintenance are taken care of; there are more opportunities to make friends and socialize; the homeowners association is a good source of help and support. You can rent a vacation home in a gated community to assess whether this is the right option for you. Here is an example of a vacation rental in Domincal located in a gated community with good upkeep and 24-hour security. Living in a rental home for a while will expose you to some of the issues that most affect home maintenance and housekeeping in Costa Rica. This can be an eye-opener that especially benefits retirees who are looking to buy or build a home. For example, heavy rainfall and high humidity is a big issue that confronts most homeowners who struggle to control mold build-up; the salt content in the air can cause unexpected damages due to rusts and corrosion for many beach homes; termites, scorpions and dust mites are just some of the culprits to justify regular fumigation. In summary, if the idea of retiring in Costa Rica appeals to you, we strongly recommend that you first take an extended vacation and live like a local in a private rental for a period of time. The good thing is, many property owners offer monthly rentals that are invariably lower than what it would cost to rent by the week. Costa Rica is a great country to retire in, but the reality is that it does not check all the boxes for everybody. Those who can adapt and assimilate will not only enjoy the Costa Rican culture and the people but a simpler and more affordable way of life.
Related Articles -
costa rica, retire in costa rica, costa rica rental, costa rica travel, costa rica house rental, retirement costa rica, seniors in costa rica,
| 
