If you’re considering living abroad, then I’m sure you’ve heard this story. Guy goes to Costa Rica on a surfing trip. He falls in love with the place. What was supposed to be a long weekend turns into two weeks. While he’s there he starts scoping out a place to live.
Guy goes home and collects his wife. They sell everything and buy a house near the beach in the tropics for forty grand. They move to paradise. He makes a living teaching gringos how to surf. She opens up a cafe in a beachside cabana. And they all live happily ever after.
Sounds great, right? Right? Wrong.
That’s not to say that the above scenario can’t happen. Apparently it did for that guy. It’s just that it isn’t the norm. In fact, it’s quite the anomaly. Hence the reason so many marketers like to tell that story, to make you think you could be next.
Unfortunately, though, thousands of expats every year live out stories that more closely resemble this one…
Guy gets tired of working behind a desk 50 hours per week. He’s sick of watching his taxes increase and his freedoms decrease. Guy says, “Honey, let’s move to the tropics!” His wife says, “Um…okay?”
Guy researches countries on the Internet and settles on one he thinks they’ll like. They pick a city in Central America and plan a trip down to visit. They stay at a local resort, sip piña coladas, and think “This is the life.” So they buy a little house and relocate their family.
Fast forward a few months. It’s the rainy season now, so it rains every day. The roof leaks, and they can’t find a single contractor who’ll finish the job. His “get rich quick” scheme is taking a little longer than expected.
The place they’ve moved has few expats, and they’re having trouble making friends. She’s sick of the weather and bored out of her mind. Frustrated, she announces that she’s moving back to the States. Alone.
While this second scenario is a much more accurate picture of many couples and individuals who try their hand at living abroad, it doesn’t have to be.
This couple just missed out on the next, and ultimately the most important, step in the whole process.
They may have picked out dishes and curtains for their new place. But they overlooked a lot of more crucial issues like how they were going to meet people, what activities were going to fill their newfound free time, and how they were going to cope when they encountered difficulties.
These and other considerations are all part of the mental preparation for moving abroad. Just as important as choosing a location, packing your belongings, and getting your paperwork in order is the need to formulate a shared vision for what your life will look like in your new home. And a carefully drawn plan of attack for you to implement once you arrive.
There are a lot of reasons that people cite for why they didn’t fare so well in what they thought was going to be the destination of their dreams. But almost all of them share the same underlying lack of sufficient mental preparation. Here are some of the most common mental mistakes expats make when living abroad, along with our suggestions of how you can avoid them.
#1. They have unrealistic expectations.
Erma Bombeck said it best. “The grass is always greener over the septic tank.” And when you’re fed up with life in the U.S., it’s easy to see living abroad as the answer to all of the things that frustrate you about your current life.
While living overseas can be great, it’s never going to be perfect. Too many expats over-romanticize life abroad, only to be met with great disappointment when things don’t go exactly as planned.
Like the guy in our scenario learned, doing business in another country can be a real challenge. Your plan to meet a Latin hottie and live happily ever after, might make a better Lifetime movie than a reality show. Not to mention, living in a developing country presents a whole other set of issues that many expats just aren’t prepared to deal with.
The bottom line is that when you get your feet on the ground in your new country, and you remove those rose-colored glasses to wipe off the fog from the sweltering humidity, you may begin to see that everything isn’t always going to be sunshine and rainbows.
How to Prepare:
Don’t be naive. While it’s fun to let yourself believe that everything will work itself out and you’ll never have any problems, it just isn’t realistic. A better approach is to actively anticipate hurdles and be prepared to deal with them.
Learn some common complaints about the area where you’re headed and decide if they’re things you can handle. If they aren’t, maybe you should reconsider your destination, or even your move altogether. If the concerns are manageable ones for you, go ahead and decide exactly how you’re going to deal with them.
Living abroad, like living anywhere, is all about trade-offs. Think long and hard about what you value and what you’re willing to do without in order to have what’s most important to you. If freedom, opportunity, and adventure are your priorities, you’ll find them in Central America. If punctuality’s something you need to maintain your sanity, you’ll go crazy there.
Most importantly, and we can’t stress this enough, have a PLAN. Whatever your goals–launching a new business, meeting the man or woman of your dreams, becoming a world-champion surfer, etc.–map out the steps you’re going to take to make them happen. Be ready to get started as soon as you arrive.
#2. They get bored.
Many expats make the mistake of thinking that, once they move to the tropics, every day for the rest of their lives is going to be like a vacation. That usually lasts less than a month. When the honeymoon phase is over, even living abroad in paradise can start to lose its luster.
Lying in a hammock and drinking beer all day can quickly get old (not to mention wreak havoc on your health). And with nothing to fill your time and hold your attention, all the cracks in your new life will start to show through.
Besides, no matter what you might think, there’s virtually no one who can live [happily] doing absolutely nothing all the time. Sounds nice, but it doesn’t work. You’re eventually going to need a purpose. Or, at the very least, a pastime.
How to Prepare:
When making preparations to move abroad, try to see it as planning a life instead of just a really long vacation. Sure, you’ll have the time and freedom to do things you never could back in the U.S., but you also want to enjoy a meaningful existence. The hedonistic lifestyle can quickly become an empty one.
When you visit the cities you’re considering, look at the locals and other expats. See how they live and what they do. Think realistically about what you’ll do once you get there. Look at your current lifestyle and see what matches up.
Find opportunities to explore new hobbies, volunteer, and stay active both physically and socially. Not only will these activities stave off the boredom, they’ll help you get plugged in and find community in your new home.
#3. They aren’t on the same page.
Sadly many couples who move to the tropics have lopsided enthusiasm. One may be thirsty for adventure, while the other one hates being so far away from family. This partner may be gung-ho about a new business opportunity, which requires their companion to put their career on hold as a sacrifice.
It could even be as simple as a difference of opinion about where to move. He wants a small beach community, while she wants a more cosmopolitan city.
Whatever the discrepancy, it’s important to share the same vision and values. And it’s important to negotiate any compromises before you come, not after. The stress of an international move is hard enough. Throw in the lack of a support system and a whole slew of temptations in your new city, and it’s a recipe for disaster for a relationship that is already on the rocks.
Too many expat couples quickly find themselves getting a divorce, all because they failed to communicate about their goals.
How to Prepare:
Before making any decisions about living abroad, have a candid conversation with your partner about exactly what it is you want. Make sure you agree on important issues like where to move and what you’ll do when you get there.
With so many great places to live in Central America, there is almost surely a place that can accommodate both parties’ interests, so that no one has to sacrifice their dreams unnecessarily. If one wants a cooler climate, but the other wants to live near the beach, find a place on a lush mountainside overlooking the sea from a higher elevation.
The same compromise goes for your interests as well. If one of you is a theater buff and the other thrives on giving back, find a place where an established expat community has formed both a local theater group and a humanitarian organization that assists the local indigenous group.
#4. They have no idea what they are getting into.
Much expat turnover can be attributed to simply failing to do an adequate amount of homework. Many of the common complaints–such as unpleasant weather, inferior amenities, and lack of other expats–could be avoided with just a little more research into the destination city.
For families living abroad, a common mistake is to fail to take into account the needs of the children. If a city has a large expat community, but they’re all retirees, then the children might have trouble making friends. If the local school is subpar or there’s no private alternative, parents may need to homeschool.
While disappointment is never a good thing as an expat, it’s never more frustrating than when the issue could have been avoided entirely…with just the slightest bit of extra sleuthing.
How to Prepare:
Make sure your research on your destination city is exhaustive. Find out everything you can about it, from the perspective of a resident, not a tourist. Experience it in all seasons. Talk to other expats who live there. Talk to some who have left!
Think about what you require to live comfortably (e.g. high speed Internet, local yoga classes, etc.). Does your city have those things? Conversely, what are some of your biggest pet peeves (e.g. low water pressure, long waits at the health clinic, etc.)? Is there anything in your new city that’s likely to drive you bananas? What about the other members of your family? Will their needs be fulfilled there?
If you don’t yet feel like you could write a 10-page essay (from memory) on all the various aspects of your destination city and its surroundings, then maybe you need to keep researching. At the very least, you’ll go into the move with confidence knowing you’ve investigated every aspect as carefully as you possibly could.
That being said, realize that–if things don’t turn out exactly like you thought–there are still plenty of options available to you. If you’re unhappy in your destination city, there might be a better one a few towns over. One of the beauties of becoming an expat is that you have the freedom to pull the plug at any time if another, more appealing door opens for you.
#5. They don’t give it enough time.
Even expats who’ve lived and thrived abroad for decades will tell you that a little bit of homesickness and disorientation is completely normal, especially in the early days. But many new expats take it to mean something that it doesn’t.
Many react to those emotions by withdrawing and isolating themselves further. Rather than reaching out and embracing their new culture, they try to almost recreate their home country in their new country.
They eat at restaurant chains they recognize from home. They surround themselves with mementos and reminders of the things they left. They eventually begin to romanticize “home” and even start to forget or minimize the reasons they left.
Even those who seek the companionship of other expats can get caught in the trap of trying to only surround themselves with things that are familiar and comfortable. Before they know it, the only solution is to return to where they came from.
How to Prepare:
Rather than focusing on the challenges of your new city, especially as you struggle to acclimate yourself, remember what drew you there to begin with. If it was the weather, spend lots of time outside enjoying it. If it was freedom, glance at a few U.S. headlines now and then as a reminder of the negative things you gave up.
Living abroad is really all about attitude and optimism. It’s also about endurance.
Do yourself a favor and promise that you’ll give it a minimum of six months before you throw in the towel. It takes at least that long to really get settled into a Latin country. To find people you’re comfortable with and establish a routine.
Most importantly, be open to new experiences and let yourself be pleasantly surprised by the new things your new city has to offer. Remember that the opportunity to enjoy a new culture is one of the reasons you chose to live abroad, and you just can’t do that effectively at an Outback Steakhouse.
Avoid these mistakes when living abroad
Just as important as the physical logistics of moving abroad are all the ways you’ll need to mentally prepare to relocate. Don’t make the move without a plan for what you’ll do when you get there. Have those important conversations with your family now.
Away from Boredom in Granada Nicaragua
The town paints itself. Cement block buildings, boldly painted in bright splashes of red, green, and yellow. The clay tile roofs bend over the streets of Granada Nicaragua, then hesitate and separate for furious sprigs of bright, flowering plants, shaded parks, and clean, gentle streets easing by colonnaded buildings. In the air, is a feeling of excitement and energy.
Face it. The modern concepts of city planning have become boring. Look-alike houses, all painted the same color, with tiny lawns and only a number to separate one home from another, and a street sign to tell you you’re in the right neighborhood. Shopping malls, fast food diners, playgrounds, and parks all based on the same architecture. It’s little wonder creativity has taken a nose dive and a person’s favorite “real estate” is an Internet capable cell phone. Real-time adventure is limited to zip-lining over a rock quarry. Romance is a dirty word, associated with melodrama and cheap paperback books.
Yet there is absolutely no ignoring the fact that Granada, Nicaragua is romantic. How could it be otherwise? Founded in 1529, it’s not only the first colonial town built on firm land, its marked Baroque style is based off early Moorish architecture, giving it a unique flavor found nowhere else in Central America.
You Can Truly Get Away from It All
Secluded from the modern world by the miles of wilderness characteristic of Nicaragua, Granada slumbered peacefully through the Sandinista civil war in a backdrop of rich agricultural land, dry forests, and tropical rain forests and volcanoes. As though this pastoral setting wasn’t enough to keep the dreamer dreaming, it’s also located on one of the largest lakes in the world, Lake Nicaragua, or, as the locals call it, Cocibolca.
It is a natural playground for adventurers. It has three volcanic lagoons; Manares, Genirzaro and the famous Apoyo, the largest lagoon in Nicaragua. Due to its rough, unpredictable waters, as well as industrial pollution, swimming in Lake Nicaragua isn’t recommended, but tourists and locals take full advantage of the crystal clear waters of Apoyo.
You Can Also Take It with You
Although the area surrounding Granada is largely underdeveloped, with few modern conveniences, Granada, Nicaragua is no longer a sleepy little town. An initiative to preserve and restore the ancient colonial architecture that had begun to seriously deteriorate with Nicaraguan bankruptcy, resulted in foreign aid and investments, beginning in 1990. The Spanish government in particular, took a keen interest in the refurbishment of the city, even transforming the Calle La Calzada into Peatonal – a foot traffic only – street.
It didn’t take long for Americans and Europeans to discover the charm of the quaint city, and a Granada’s real estate appeal much greater than owning a few cubic yards of lawn and a two car garage. It wasn’t long before they were buying the historic buildings, turning them into retirement homes, apartments, and businesses. The pace slowed down in 2007 with the global recession, but word had already gotten around. Granada, Nicaragua was the smart place to invest in, and after a brief lull, attention turned once more to the accommodating and entirely affordable town.
Modern day Granada wakes to the sound of hammers, saws, and mixers. The repaired city has cable and cell phone service, Internet cafes, luxury hotels with swimming pools and hot, running water, four star restaurants, a new supermarket, health food stores, libraries, gyms, and still plenty of opportunities for investors.
Government Initiative
There are many advantages for investors in Granada Nicaragua. There are no real restrictions on foreign capital investment, and regulations concerning business development are minimal. There are no real estate taxes for up to ten years and supplies for starting your business are tax-free. You may import up to $20,000 in personal items tax-free. You may also import or buy a vehicle worth up to $25,000 without paying a tax.
The GDP growth rate in Nicaragua is one of the fastest in Central America. The economy has expanded at 5.2%, and construction is up 30%. Granada is one of Nicaragua’s fastest growing towns. Its recent overhaul has included updated utility services and major improvements in road maintenance.
Nicaragua’s low income base makes it once of the most affordable Central American countries to invest in, raise families, or retire. Although Granada is considered prime real estate, giving it a higher value than other locations within Nicaragua, the value of real estate and cost of living is still half what it is in the United States.
Easy Flight
Granada is located within a forty minute drive of the capital city, Managua. Air flights from Houston or Miami to the Managua International Airport take about two hours. There are shuttles available for $15. Most of the shuttle services will drop you off at nearly any point in Granada. There are also taxis available for around $35. Recently, the small airport at Granada has begun offering services between the town and the Managua airport.
Granada, Nicaragua’s Solid Economic Base
Granada’s escape from major conflict during the Nicaragua civil war was largely due to its reputation as a place to relax and refresh your mind from critical issues and decisions. Businessmen, states people, and diplomats regarded Granada as a prime vacation spot. As the war settled to a close, it attracted a growing number of European and U.S. travelers as an ideal tourist spot.
However, tourism is not its only industry. Granada has long been a Nicaraguan hub for commerce, with a vigorous trade in timber, gold, and silver. It’s also rich in agricultural land, capable of growing a large variety of fruits, vegetables, herbs, spices, as well as cotton, tobacco, coffee, and livestock.
Fishing Bonus
The fishing is good in nearby Cocibolca, keeping both the local fishermen and expat community happy. Fish include several species of mojarra and other cichild fish, sardines, tarpon, big and small tooth sawfish, and the unique fresh water bull shark. The shark, once considered a hazard to the public and nearly exterminated, is now a protected species.
It is believed the unusual appearance of the shark, tarpon, and sawfish in the Nicaragua Lake is due to a geographic event. Millennia ago, the lake was once a Pacific bay until volcanic eruptions sealed it into a landlocked body of water. As the water sweetened, the marine life slowly adapted to their fresh water home.
A Culture of Art
Its seclusion, its lakeside vantage, and its early colonial architecture aren’t all that attracts tourists. Even before it was established as a colonial settlement, it was a center for art, music, and philosophy among the indigenous culture. The music of Nicaragua is an energetic blend of Spanish and indigenous rhythms, progressing into modernism with the cheerful incorporation of jazz, hip-hop, rock, and rap. The multi-cultural blend has been the inspiration of international poets since 1929. Each year, there is a local festival of the poets in which marchers symbolically bury ignorance and intolerance.
There is no end of subject matter for artists, who have also been enthusiastically setting up their easels on the narrow streets of Granada Nicaragua. The scenery, the performing arts, the distinct cultural aspects are immortalized on canvas and fashioned into handcrafts.
The Expat Community of Granada Nicaragua
There are a variety of reasons why people choose to move abroad, but the greatest common denominator is opportunity. Just as many people from underdeveloped countries look to the Western countries as an opportunity to improve their lifestyles, Western citizens who have been severely affected by the economic slump are anxiously guarding their remaining assets and speculating on the increasing stability of the emerging countries.
Granada attracts a large number of youthful investors. With real estate available for as low as $60,000, and no restrictions on foreign ownership, opportunity holds a special meaning. Many bring their business ideas, their entrepreneurship, and their organizational skills, finding the restrictions in trying to generate self-income too discouraging in their home countries. In Granada, their modest capital can go far. All it takes is a little ingenuity and labor.
Opportunity also knocks on the door for teachers, environmentalists, agricultural specialists, botanists, anthropologists, and geologists. The field of foreign studies brings in students ready to gain hands-on experience in a volunteer project.
The expat community is close knit, with a strong sense of volunteer commitment. Many are engaged in helping Nicaragua meet its goal of higher education and health care standards for the rural communities. Although the infrastructure of Granada is excellent, with English/Spanish transitional schools, several hospitals and clinics, and a highly competent professional staff, the largely rural population within the Pacific district of Granada still suffer from limited education and inadequate health care.
The Best Way In
Those who consider uprooting and relocating to Granada Nicaragua are urged to try it out first. The average lifestyle in Granada is energetic, even among the retirees. They have a strong affinity to the outdoors.
In the tradition of Spanish/Moorish architecture, the colonial homes surround small, open court yards. Their living rooms and kitchens rest under awnings, looking out to their cultivated space.
The narrow streets encourage foot traffic and bicycles far more than automobiles. Those who own vehicles usually leave them parked in the garage unless they’re taking an excursion to Managua to buy supplies, or going on a cruise to one of the many wonderful nearby destinations. In Granada, it’s a short trip to the Pacific Ocean, or to the San Juan Rio.
The grapevine is the best way to find apartment housing, real estate deals, job opportunities, coming events, and bargain tips. By hooking in to the Internet community, you can break the ice online, and learn about expat meeting places, or you could just stroll around until you see a large congregation of expats spilling out in front of the coffee shops, sitting around small, shaded tables on the sidewalk.
Any Lifestyle Is a Good Lifestyle in Granada Nicaragua
If you talk to ten expats, you’ll find ten different opinions of the best lifestyle in Nicaragua. Many are proud of the newly renovated colonial homes, complete with swimming pools, air conditioning, Internet, cable television, guest rooms, and maid services. High-end homes can be purchased or restored for $150,000 to $250,000. Some who have invested in high-end homes rent their extra rooms for $400 a month.
Other expats build businesses or offices into their colonial homes. Their amenities may be somewhat more modest, but these budget-conscious venturers into small enterprise report a comfortable lifestyle with evenings out, restaurant dining, medical services, and automobile maintenance for $1,200 a month.
There are still others who gradually begin blending with the locals. They rent lower-cost housing outside the Central, buy products and groceries at the outdoor market and spend money at the street stands. They learn fluent Spanish and participate in the festivals and other activities. Many report living quite well on $800 a month.
The Great Motivating Factor
Opportunities exist throughout the emerging countries, but the opportunities that bring the expats together is marked by the spirit of self-determination. They visualize how things could be in a country truly open to free expression, and understand the liberties you ask for yourself are also the liberties requested of others. Free expression might be given with colorful explosions or in a musician wistfully playing a flute on a street corner. It might be flamboyant. It might be nothing more rhythmic and plodding than a farmer’s cart being pulled by a horse.
This free expression is what they embrace most. Whether they are starting a business, working a profession, volunteering services, or just planning that perfect retirement home, they thrill in the expression of their individual creativity and anticipate their roles in society. For them, anything is possible in this newly recovering country.
Granada mixes the ancient with the modern, hand-crafted items with sophisticated electronics. It is historically diplomatic, serving as a meeting place for scholars and a busy hub for commerce. The expats who choose to live there do because they believe in a future where individuals can make a difference and that Granada Nicaragua can help shape that difference.
Further Reading on Granada
For an in depth look at Granada check out our Granada Starter Kit, a 64 page book packed full of info on Granada.
M. Drumb
Whether you’re retiring to Panama with a pensioner’s income or moving down as a young professional to work in a specialized field, you can easily find a Panama visa option that’s right for your particular situation. Now actually obtaining that visa, on the other hand, can be a completely different story.
While Panama is known the world over for its friendliness to foreigners and its inviting list of visa options, its efficiency and straightforward processes are unfortunately not among its strong suits.
Picture the DMV in the U.S. On a Friday. The last day of the month. With the computer system down. Now double it.
That’s not to say that obtaining your visa in Panama is always difficult. It isn’t. But it can easily become that way. And it’s due largely in part to the Panamanian way of doing things.
Things in Panama move slower, in general. You can wait days for a repairman to actually show up at your house to fix a leaky faucet. Panama Immigration Services is no different.
In addition, the rules in Panama are always changing. The requirements someone laid out for you yesterday might not hold true tomorrow. Or you might just get a different story from the person you talk to the next time.
Don’t let it frustrate you.
While the process of obtaining your Panamanian visa can be stressful, it’s manageable. And, most importantly, it’s worth it. With the right team of professionals and these important tips, you can make things go a little more smoothly.
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Be represented. A qualified attorney can be a huge asset when navigating the immigration process, beginning with choosing the best visa for your needs. Find someone who has experience with the system and has helped other gringos obtain the same visa you’re after. You can get recommendations from other trusted professionals you’ve dealt with or from other expats.
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Be knowledgeable. Before applying for your visa, make sure you’ve researched your options and are choosing the right one for you. Take into consideration whether you’ll be investing in property, whether you have a high enough monthly income, or whether you plan to work once you get here. These factors determine whether you will qualify for a specific visa at all, so don’t miss this important step.
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Be reasonable. With your expectations, that is. Obtaining a visa is not like renewing your driver’s license, where you go in, wait in a long line, and leave with what you came for. Understand the process for what it is and prepare yourself to approach it calmly and with your end goal in mind. Remember that, despite the fact that the government or even your attorney gives you a projected time frame, it’s never a guarantee. If you know that going in, it can make the entire process far less stressful.
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Be prepared. Once you know (or at least think you know) what all will be required for your application, get all of your documentation in order. This will include things like your passport, proof of income, employment verification, and other important papers. It’s best to have a few copies of each if possible. Make sure they’re all in Spanish and notarized where necessary.
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Be patient. And not just the waiting-in-a-long-line kind of patient. Sure, you’ll do some of that too. You’ll want to bring a book or magazine, or maybe even use the time to brush up on your Spanish. But, beyond the temporary waiting in line, there can be months of frustration and uncertainty. Don’t worry. Don’t stress. Just trust your team to do everything they can to keep moving the ball forward. Then wait patiently and trust that you’ve done everything you can for the moment. When it’s time for the next step, move the ball forward a little more. Repeat.
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Be polite. It’s true in almost any situation, but when dealing with Panama Immigration Services you can truly catch more flies with honey than with vinegar. A simple “Buenos dias” and a smile can brighten the day of the person stuck behind the desk you’re standing in front of. Especially when they’ve just dealt with hundreds of people before you who weren’t nearly as affable. While there’s probably not a lot of leeway for any kind of special treatment, they’re much more likely to offer it if you’re nice.
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Be persistent. We mentioned that rules and requirements change a lot in Panama, and foreigners are often left in the lurch when that happens. When you show up with everything you need, only to be told you’ll need something else, simply smile graciously and go back to the drawing board. When it happens again the next time (and it could), just keep doing everything you can to keep the ball moving forward.
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Be ready to do it all again. With many visas, such as the popular Pensionado Visa, the government requires an annual renewal to ensure that you’re still meeting the requirements that allow you to hold the visa, such as proof of your continued income. Don’t let these dates sneak up on you. Remain proactive and line up the required documents well in advance of any deadlines. Hopefully the renewal process will only get easier with time.
While obtaining a visa in Panama isn’t always a walk in the park, it’s well worth the sacrifice to be able to call this attractive retirement haven your home. Now that you know how to approach the process, you’re miles ahead of many other would-be expats. The next step is to narrow down your options.
The Caribbean gem of Costa Rica, Puerto Viejo Talamanca, with its stunning beaches, abundant wildlife, international vibe, and lower price tag is an appealing place for travelers and those looking to invest and live abroad. With ten miles of pristine jungle-backed beach and five distinct neighborhoods it can be difficult to know where to base yourself.
Beaches become more natural and animals are more plentiful the further you venture outside of town. However, the road runs through dark jungle, which is not walkable at night, and comforts like pharmacies and ATMs are only in town.
Here is a breakdown of the neighborhoods to help you decide which best suits your needs.
Puerto Viejo Costa Rica
The town of Puerto Viejo Costa Rica is famous (or infamous) for its seedy authenticity. Colorful fishing boats rock against a coral covered harbor, reggae sounds from nearby bars and restaurants, and sarong, jewelry, and souvenir vendors set up shop on the beach.
In town you will find the only banks and ATMs in the entire area. Bicycle rentals are on every corner and taxis are readily available if you do not have a car to explore other neighborhoods.
Every Saturday morning a large farmer’s market commences with raw cacao, fresh whole chickens, a wide assortment of produce, and fresh breads and pastries. Several grocery stores and various household stores offer most items you might need. Restaurants in town are the most populated and affordable, but the true culinary treasures lie in outer neighborhoods.
Accommodations tend to be less expensive but can be noisy as Puerto Viejo hosts several parties every night of the week.
Playa Cocles (1-3 miles from town)
Expats and vacationers looking for tranquility and proximity to town stay in Cocles. The beaches are sprawling and the waves can get enormous. These beaches are best for sunning and surfing rather than swimming. Beach Break is the most populated beach in the area and the only beach with lifeguards.
The one grocery store, Pirripli, has a good wine selection, special imports, and fresh produce. There are many restaurants to choose from including the famous Italian restaurant La Pecora Nera. The one luxury hotel in Puerto Viejo, El Cameleon, is next door and throws Reggae and Calypso parties on Friday and Saturday nights. Laid-back travelers will enjoy the beach bonfire party every Tuesday night at Tasty Waves in front of Beach Break.
Otherwise this neighborhood tends to be quiet at night.
Playa Chiquita (3-5 miles from town)
The moment you step foot in Playa Chiquita the community vibe becomes apparent. Expats from all over the world carry their children and groceries down the street, sit and sip coffee in darling open air organic cafes, and swim in the natural pools created by the coral reef. There is one grocery store, El Duende Gourmet, with specialty items like local homemade bread, quinoa, and sriracha. A small farmer’s market takes place every Wednesday morning offering local yogurt, bread, cheese, and produce.
Punta Uva (5-7 miles from town)
Beautiful beaches, elegant cabins, and incredible cuisine all grace the quiet jungle neighborhood of Punta Uva. This neighborhood is popular with long-term vacationers and families. Three of the best restaurants in the entire area are in Punta Uva: El Refugio for perfect grilled steaks and seafood, Selvin’s Restaurant with arguably the best Caribbean food in the world, and Pita Bonita with freshly baked pita and homemade falafel. The beaches are calm for swimming and snorkeling and are famed as some of the most beautiful in all of Costa Rica. Playa Chiquita nearby is a necessary stop for markets and cafes.
Manzanillo (7-10 miles from town)
The quiet Caribbean fishing village of Manzanillo rests along a rugged wildlife refuge with stunning wilderness beaches. Accommodations and restaurants are somewhat sparse in this area so having a car is essential. Maxi’s, the most famous Caribbean restaurant in the greater Puerto Viejo area, serves delicious meat and seafood and throws Reggae parties every Friday night. There is one small convenience store, but you will need to venture all the way to Playa Chiquita for a proper market. If you are looking for proximity to animals, peace and quiet, and do not mind the 10 mile trek to town, Manzanillo is right up your alley.
Whatever neighborhood you choose you will be near beautiful beaches and lovely communities. Weigh the pros and cons between proximity to town and peace and solitude for your best fit.
Javier Hidalgo
Mexico is home to one of the world’s famous tropical playgrounds–the Riviera Maya Mexico. Here, you can scuba dive, jet ski, and just lounge around.
Craving more of a city experience? Think Mexico City, the nation’s capital, and one of the largest metropolitan areas in the world. Take a fascinating video tour of Mexico City to the Rivera Maya and discover for yourself the contrasting cultures, destinations, and activities in Mexico.
Let us know what you do in Mexico City in the comment section!
D Barefoot
Central America is a great place to call home. We certainly like it here. But we also know it isn’t for everyone.
While some of the negatives of living in a developing country can be managed by carefully choosing your specific area, there are others that can never be overcome. Period.
That’s important to know before you spend valuable time and money transplanting your life and all your worldly goods to a place thousands of miles away from friends and family. Every year, tons of expats move to Central America only to realize that a life in the Latin tropics isn’t right for them.
We don’t want that to happen to you.
We probably don’t have to tell you all of the many things there are to love about living abroad in Central America. But we’re going to anyway. We’re going to tell you the not-so-great things as well.
Of course, we firmly believe that the benefits of living here far outweigh any negatives. But that’s for you to decide. Here’s a list of what we think are some of the biggest pros and cons of living abroad in Central America.
The Pros of Living Abroad in Central America
1. Freedom
Sure, U.S. citizens sing about being “the land of the free.” But, if you really want to understand what freedom feels like, move to Central America. Theirs is a life lived less encumbered.
Freedom from virtually all government regulation. Freedom from neighborhood covenants. Freedom from the rat race and 60-hour work weeks. Freedom from cell phone tapping. Freedom from the need to keep up with the Joneses.
There’s nothing like it.
2. Cost of Living
Particularly in a time when your U.S. dollar seem to be stretching a shorter distance than ever before, the thought of living on between $1000-$2000 per months sounds pretty tempting. And it’s entirely possible almost anywhere you go in Central America. And that includes housing.
While costs vary greatly from one location to the next (and are, of course, higher in the larger cities), it isn’t unheard of to find a decent 2-bedroom house for under $500 per month. Dinner for two at a world-class restaurant, with a bottle of wine, will set you back no more than $30. You can get a dozen roses for $4 and a four-course lunch for $2.50.
The affordability of Central America is one reason it attracts so many retirees who can live an extremely comfortable retirement without sacrificing anything about their lifestyle.
3. Affordable Health Care
Almost everything is cheaper in Central America. And health care is no exception. It’s so inexpensive that many expats choose to self-insure their medical costs. However, for those who do choose health insurance coverage, they can get it for as little as $50 per month for coverage that pays 100% for in-network providers.
Doctor visits cost generally around $25, and that includes an extended time with the actual physician who may send you home with his or her private cell phone number. A specialist costs closer to $50, and an ER visit runs around $100.
Many countries even offer free health care at public clinics and hospitals, although a lot of expats opt to pay for private care. Most larger cities have hospitals that rival those in the U.S.
A lot of medical practitioners in Central America speak English, and many doctors even trained in the U.S. As a result, many Central American countries are beginning to emerge on the medical tourism scene, with patients traveling abroad to undergo procedures ranging from heart transplants to facelifts.
4. Climate
The countries of Central America boast some of the best weather you’ll find anywhere in the world. There’s really no winter at all, with the only distinctions in seasons coming as a result of a few rainier months each year.
While generally mild everywhere, the climate does vary from location to location. In general, coastal areas are warmer with higher humidity. Highs can get into the upper 80’s and low 90’s.
However, you only have to move up to a slightly higher elevation to get a little bit of relief from the heat. Many areas in the highlands never even reach 80 degrees and have a spring-like climate year-round.
The steady, temperate climate means there’s no need for two separate wardrobes. With just a light jacket or sweater and an umbrella you’re set for day and nighttime in any season.
5. Fresh Produce
The perpetual spring-like weather in Central America means that fruits and vegetables can be grown year round. And they’re like nothing you’ve ever eaten. Maybe like nothing you’ve ever even SEEN.
Farmer’s markets are loaded with the usual favorites, like plantains and mangoes. You can also find jicama, tomatillos, papayas, and guava.
Also among the offerings are more unusual options like nopals and prickly pears, respectively the stems and fruit of the prickly pear cactus. You might also see yuca root, tamarind, and chayote squash.
Fruit and vegetables in Central America are fresh, organic, locally-grown, and widely available. They’re also affordable. You can buy a week’s worth of produce for a family of four for less than eight bucks.
And nothing’s ever out of season.
6. Nature
The countries of Central America are some of the most ecologically and biologically diverse places in the world. And rather than driving cross country to experience a different climate or ecosystem, all you have to do is drive up or down the mountain.
Central America has it all. From beautiful beaches to active volcanoes to coral reefs to lush rain forests to mountain waterfalls. And each of those areas is teeming with rare, and often endangered, species of plants and animals.
The region is home to sea turtles, jaguars, toucans, sloths, snakes, monkeys, and much more. It also offers great sites for bird and butterfly watching. If adventure’s your gig, there are also opportunities for jungle expeditions, white water rafting, and some of the world’s best sport fishing.
7. Uncharted Territory
For many, Central America represents a place where you can truly find that new frontier that can never, ever be had in the U.S. With miles of unexplored reefs, untouched beaches, and undiscovered jungles, you can truly feel like a pioneer.
You can explore these areas (often only on foot or horseback), and–if you’ve got good negotiating skills–you might even call them yours.
Whether you want to build a hut and live like Robinson Crusoe, or just spend an afternoon alone on a deserted beach and then call it a day, you can do that in Central America.
8. Indigenous Culture
Depending on where you go in Central America, there are a number of opportunities to experience the culture of the area’s indigenous people groups or even live alongside them. You’ll see women washing clothes in the river and drying them on rocks. Many still practice the religious ceremonies of the Mayans and turn to alternative healers for medical treatment.
They set up booths in local markets to sell their wares: bead jewelry, straw goods, and textiles. They hunt, farm, and raise livestock. Many groups wear their own colorful native dress, and there are dozens of indigenous languages spoken throughout Central America.
9. The Simple Life
We’re not sure how or why, but in Central America the days seem longer. Things move slower, and there’s time left over for so many more things you could never have fit into your schedule back in the U.S.
The workaholic lifestyle is unheard of here. It’s replaced with 2-hour lunches and shorter work weeks. Many businesses still close for lunch. And, in fact, lunch is often a time that is reserved for families to spend together.
Most of Central America is untouched by consumerism, and there’s less of a need to have more and get more and do more. While some of the larger cities are becoming increasingly more North American in their practices, a simpler, slower pace of life is easy to find wherever you go.
Cons of Living Abroad in Central America
1. Crime
While some are certainly safer than others, the countries of Central America present some real concerns in terms of violence and crime. While there’s the obvious drug trafficking and its related criminal activity, there’s also a gang problem.
Some of the countries in Central America have alarmingly high homicide rates, and tourists often fall victim to burglary and theft. Many nations are taking great strides in this area, but there’s still a lot of room for improvement.
The good news is that much of the more violent crime often occurs in areas that aren’t necessarily as popular for expats. The biggest concerns in areas populated by foreigners are petty theft, pickpocketing, and other scams aimed at gringos.
Our best advice is to use common sense. Don’t leave valuable items in an unlocked car, and don’t run around flashing wads of cash.
2. Consumer Selection
While Central America does have ample options when it comes to fresh fruits and vegetables, in some other areas the selection can be lacking. The more dead set you are on having the same products and goods you enjoy in the U.S., the more disappointed you’ll be in the options available to you.
It’s not that there are a lot of things you can’t find here at all. It’s just that they might not be the same quality or same brands you’re used to. However, they will be cheaper. Imported and gourmet items are some of the only things that could end up costing you MORE in Central America.
So, if you can find a comparable substitute, you’re likely to save considerable money buying the local option. Likewise, if there’s something you absolutely can’t live without, you can have it shipped to you. But you’ll pay a pretty penny.
3. The Simple Life
No, we’re not crazy. Yes, we realize this was also the “Pro” list. The reason it appears again here is because the slow, simple pace of life isn’t for everybody. If you’re someone who thrives on busy-ness, you could actually become bored by the lack of hubbub in Central America.
Likewise you won’t find all of your North American television channels and other conveniences you’re used to. Certainly the larger cities offer more options and activities, but even there it’s not uncommon for businesses to close early. However, most areas have a vibrant night life, particularly the more touristy cities.
If the loss of a large social network is your complaint, it’s also easy to find other expats and enjoy regularly scheduled activities such as theater groups and poker nights.
4. Lack of Sophistication
While Central America offers plenty of culture, it’s often in the form of local culture. Things like art museums and live music venues are sparse and are usually found in only the larger cities. Even then, the scheduled exhibits and performers will be few and far between. They’ll also be mostly local talent.
You can find a variety of cuisines, especially in more populated areas, as well as specialty shops. Larger cities offer modern shopping malls and supermarket chains. You can even find movie theaters (some with flicks in English) and bowling alleys.
In addition to the cultural sophistication, many are often turned off by the level of infrastructure in Central America. Roads are often poorly maintained. Airports have unpaved runways. And contaminated water sources can be a concern.
5. Education
Although it’s not a problem for many expats, particularly retirees, the education system in many parts of Central America leaves a lot to be desired. While it’s free and compulsory in most countries, classroom sizes are often large, resulting in a poor student to teacher ratio.
Some areas do have bilingual schools. Private schools are also an option, although they can be expensive. Many expats instead opt to homeschool their children, giving them more freedom and flexibility to make good use of their time in their new country.
Central America does have a number of good universities and language schools.
6. Inefficiency
Central America marches to the rhythm of a different drum. And it’s often a slower and more erratic pace than most North Americans are used to. It’s very easy for expats to become frustrated at how things are run and how long it often takes to accomplish what seems to be such a relatively simple task.
Government requirements and processes are continually changing. People are always late, even in business settings. Contractors often leave work unfinished and never come back. It can be taxing to say the least.
The only real solution for this issue is to be prepared and set your expectations accordingly.
7. Difficulty Doing Business
While Central America is a great place to live, it’s a difficult place to do business. For starters, the type of visa you hold can limit your ability to work. Many countries protect their citizens by refusing to give jobs to foreigners if there’s a citizen who can do the job.
For those who want to open a business, that’s a whole other can of worms. The business climate of Central America is very different from that of the U.S. Combine that with the inefficiencies and delays mentioned above, and it can be a recipe for disaster.
While these pros and cons of living abroad in Central America are general observations, the individual countries and cities offer a variety of other perks and problems. If you think the downsides of living in Central America are things you could overlook, the next step is narrowing down the specific country you’d like to consider.