In Search of Pura Vida. The sun rises at 5:30 a.m. The eastern sky glows softly, painted in layers of pale pink, lavender, gold, and blue, like the gentle sweep of a watercolor brush. For a brief moment, everything feels possible. The air is cool, almost tender, and the world seems to pause in reverence […]
How to Retire in Costa Rica on Nothing but a Government Pension
Retiring abroad is a dream for many, and Costa Rica has long been a top destination for retirees looking for a tropical paradise with a reasonable cost of living. For some, retiring on a government pension alone might seem impossible, but with careful planning, smart choices, and a willingness to adapt to a new lifestyle, […]
Living in Costa Rica and Creating the Arenal Botanical Gardens, Tiliran, Costa Rica
Sometimes a single vacation can change the course of a life. For Doug, that life-changing moment came during a short trip to Costa Rica in the mid-1980s—a journey that began as a simple tropical escape and evolved into a permanent relocation, a new philosophy of living, and the creation of a lush botanical garden in […]
I'm Planning a Vacation to Costa Rica, What's the Health Care Delivery System Like There?
If you are planning a vacation to Costa Rica—or even considering staying longer—you may find yourself asking an important and very practical question: What is the health care delivery system like in Costa Rica? This is a natural concern, especially for travelers who want peace of mind in case of illness, injury, or an unexpected […]
Help! I'm in Culture Shock in Costa Rica, What's the Cure?
Have you been living in Costa Rica for only a short time and suddenly find yourself not feeling quite right? You can’t put your finger on exactly what’s wrong. On the surface, everything seems perfect. The sun is shining. Flowers are blooming in vivid tropical colors. You love your new little house with its open […]