If you are thinking seriously about living in or retiring to Costa Rica, one of the very first resources you should read is The New Golden Door to Living and Retiring in Costa Rica by Christopher Howard. Over the years, countless books and articles have been written about Costa Rica, but this one stands apart. It is, without question, one of the most comprehensive, practical, and well-researched guides available on the subject.
This book is not a glossy travel brochure filled with dreamy photographs and vague promises. Instead, it is a detailed roadmap—written by someone who has actually made the move himself—covering the realities, challenges, and rewards of relocating to Costa Rica.
Who Is Christopher Howard?
Christopher Howard is a North American expatriate who chose Costa Rica as his permanent home. Unlike many writers who only spend short periods abroad, Chris immersed himself fully in Latin American culture, traveling extensively throughout the region while studying Spanish and gaining firsthand experience of life in different countries.
He ultimately discovered Costa Rica and realized that it offered something unique: political stability, a strong democratic tradition, excellent healthcare, friendly people, rich biodiversity, and a lifestyle that balances modern comforts with a deep respect for nature.
Chris holds a master’s degree in the Spanish language, which gives him a significant advantage in understanding Costa Rican culture, bureaucracy, and daily life. His linguistic and cultural fluency shines throughout the book, allowing him to explain complex topics clearly and accurately.
In addition to The New Golden Door to Living and Retiring in Costa Rica, Chris has written several other well-known books, including Costa Rica Spanish, a popular resource for expatriates and travelers alike.
The New Golden Door to Retirement and Living in Costa Rica Paperback – April 10, 2014
by Christopher Howard (Author)
Where to Learn More About Christopher Howard
Christopher Howard also runs an excellent website dedicated to relocation and retirement in Costa Rica:
- www.liveincostarica.com – Information about relocation and retirement tours
- www.costaricabooks.com – Details about all of his books and how to order them
- His books are also available through Amazon.com
Through his tours and publications, Chris has helped thousands of people make informed decisions about moving to Costa Rica.
What Makes The New Golden Door So Valuable?
The strength of this book lies in its depth and honesty. Christopher Howard does not romanticize the process of moving abroad, nor does he try to scare readers away. Instead, he presents the facts clearly, addressing both the advantages and the challenges of living in Costa Rica.
This book covers almost every topic imaginable related to relocation, including:
- Residency options and legal requirements
- Working and doing business in Costa Rica
- Banking and financial systems
- Housing and real estate
- Healthcare and insurance
- Cost of living
- Education options
- Cultural differences
- Transportation and driving
- Importing personal belongings
- Taxes and legal obligations
Chris truly leaves “no page unturned.”
Residency and Legal Matters Explained Clearly
One of the most confusing aspects of moving to Costa Rica is understanding residency requirements. Costa Rica offers several residency categories, each with its own financial qualifications and legal obligations.
The New Golden Door explains these categories in plain language, helping readers understand which option may be best for them, whether they are:
- Retirees with pension income
- Individuals with passive income
- Investors
- People planning to start a business
The book also emphasizes the importance of working with a qualified Costa Rican attorney. Laws and regulations change frequently, and having professional guidance is essential to avoid costly mistakes.
A Frequently Asked Question: Importing a Car into Costa Rica
One of the most common questions people ask when moving to Costa Rica is:
“Should I bring my car with me, or should I buy one in Costa Rica?”
Christopher Howard devotes significant attention to this topic, and for good reason. Importing a vehicle into Costa Rica can be expensive and complicated.
How Car Import Taxes Work
If you ship a car to Costa Rica, you must pay import taxes when the vehicle is released from customs. The amount of tax depends on:
- The age of the vehicle
- The make and model
- The government’s current valuation system
Import taxes are often much higher than people expect.
For example, the estimated tax on importing a 2003 Toyota Corolla with automatic transmission was quoted at $4,500 USD. On top of that, you must also pay:
- Shipping costs from Miami (approximately $800–$1,000)
- Fees for a customs agent to process the paperwork
By the time everything is added up, many people realize that importing a car is not financially worthwhile.
Why You Need Up-to-Date Information
Costa Rican import laws and tax structures change frequently, sometimes yearly. For this reason, Christopher Howard strongly advises readers to:
- Consult a Costa Rican attorney
- Obtain the most current information before making any decisions
An attorney can calculate the expected tax, explain the process, and help you avoid unpleasant surprises.
Driving a Foreign Car into Costa Rica
Some people choose to drive their car overland into Costa Rica instead of shipping it. This option comes with its own rules.
You can legally drive a foreign-plated vehicle in Costa Rica for up to three months without paying import taxes. After that:
- You must drive the car out of the country
- Remain outside Costa Rica for approximately 72 hours
- Re-enter the country to receive another three-month extension
This allows a total of six months of use without paying import taxes.
However, if you continue driving the car after this period without paying the required taxes, the vehicle can be impounded by authorities.
Costa Rican law also requires that you purchase local mandatory insurance before driving the vehicle. Again, your attorney is the best source for current regulations.
Should You Buy a Car in Costa Rica Instead?
For many people, the simpler solution is to buy a car locally. Costa Rica has a large market for both new and used vehicles, and while prices may be higher than in some other countries, the process is often easier than importing.
Christopher Howard advises:
- Always have a trusted mechanic inspect any used vehicle
- Verify ownership and legal documentation carefully
- Understand registration and insurance requirements
Buying locally can save time, stress, and money—especially for those planning to stay long term.
Banking, Housing, and Daily Life
The New Golden Door also provides detailed insights into everyday life in Costa Rica, including:
- How to open a bank account
- How to transfer money internationally
- Renting vs. buying property
- Shopping and grocery costs
- Utilities and services
These are the kinds of practical details that are often overlooked in relocation guides, yet they make all the difference once you arrive.
Working and Doing Business in Costa Rica
Another valuable section of the book addresses the realities of working in Costa Rica. Many people assume they can simply move and find employment, but Costa Rican labor laws prioritize hiring citizens.
Christopher Howard explains:
- What foreigners can and cannot legally do
- Business opportunities that make sense for expatriates
- Common mistakes newcomers make
This realistic approach helps readers plan wisely rather than relying on assumptions.
Culture Shock and Lifestyle Adjustment
Living in Costa Rica is not the same as vacationing there. Chris does an excellent job explaining cultural differences, such as:
- A more relaxed attitude toward time
- Different approaches to customer service
- Strong family values
- The importance of patience and flexibility
Understanding these differences can greatly improve your experience and help you integrate more smoothly into Costa Rican society.
Who Should Read This Book?
The New Golden Door to Living and Retiring in Costa Rica is ideal for:
- Retirees considering Costa Rica
- Digital nomads planning long-term stays
- Families exploring international relocation
- Investors looking for opportunities
- Anyone serious about making Costa Rica their home
It is not just informative—it is essential reading.
Final Thoughts
Relocating to another country is one of the biggest decisions a person can make. Costa Rica offers incredible opportunities, but success depends on accurate information and careful planning.
Christopher Howard’s The New Golden Door to Living and Retiring in Costa Rica provides exactly that. It is honest, detailed, practical, and written by someone who has truly lived the experience.
If Costa Rica is calling you, this book may very well be the key that opens your own golden door.