It is no small wonder that Ecuador was recently named the second most retirement-friendly country on the planet.
With top of the line medical facilities, low procedure costs (only 7-10% of the cost of similar procedures in the U.S. and Europe according to Ecuador’s Investment Corporation), and a Ministry of Public Health avidly focused on continually improving the quality of public and private medical care within its borders: Ecuador has become one of the most well-praised medical tourism destinations for retirees and visitors alike.
But before you book your medical visit abroad, start buying property, or get your Ecuador visa, it’s a good idea to take a deeper glimpse at the medical system you’re about to jump into, and what your expat or visitor status means in a country with a well-rounded national health system, a myriad of admired private and specialist hospitals, and a widespread network of local rural clinics.
The most important thing to consider is location. The majority of significant facilities are located in the three largest cities in Ecuador: Guayaquil, Quito, and Cuenca.
If you suspect you’ll be needing high-tech treatment frequently you might want to stay close to these centers. The rural clinics, though well-lauded for their well-trained staff and the pleasantness of the visit, often have less equipment and fewer staff fluent in English.
Mount Sinai
But that doesn’t mean the urban centers will be any less personal than a local clinic—Ecuador’s hospitals are known as bastions of personalized and amiable care at more than reasonable costs.
In fact, on an international scale, the Ecuador health system was ranked in the top 20 of efficient healthcare systems by the most recent Bloomberg analysis of World Health Organization (WHO) information—a rapid rise up, given that in 2011 Ecuador only ranked 111th on similar scales.
Here’s a quick guide to some of the most well-noted hospitals in Ecuador to expand on the basic information the U.S. Embassy doles out regarding your expat and tourist healthcare choices in Ecuador.
Construdipro
Hospital Alcivar, Guayaquil, Ecuador
Up first is the Hospital Alcivar. The most well-respected and oldest continual hospital in Ecuador, it was founded in 1937 and has continued operating since its inception.
Located in Ecuador’s largest city, Guayaquil, the once small clinic morphed over the past century from being a small specialized orthopedics service to one of the largest and most modern facilities in the country, focusing on a wide array of medical treatments.
Though the hospital has expanded significantly, its orthopedic services remain as one of the best regarded in all of South America.
With the most developed post-graduate medical training program in Ecuador, the hospital Alcivar is also the home of Ecuador’s internationally respected premiere medical journal Actas Médicas, which was founded by its former director Dr. Eduardo Alcívar Andretta.
It has 140 prestigious doctors, a staff of 700+, its own theme song (the aptly named Hymn to Hospital Alcivar), and handles everything from trauma to rehabilitative services, including Neurosurgery, Cardiology, Pediatrics, and Obstetrics. Hospital Alcivar is located close to the commercial center of the city and is within ten minutes of the city’s airports.
Dario
Hospital Metropolitano de Ecuador, Quito, Ecuador
Hospital Metropolitano is the most famous hospital in Ecuador. Located in the capital city of Quito, it was founded in 1985 with support from American Medical International (AMI). It is arguably the most technologically and procedurally progressive hospital in the country.
In addition to its bevy of cutting-edge equipment for medical visualization, intensive procedures, and patient monitoring, it is well-known for performing the most difficult types of surgeries (open heart, spine, brain surgery, etc.) and frequently collaborates with well-recognized American medical institutions like the Mayo Clinic and Mount Sinai Hospital.
Hospital Metropolitano is a teaching hospital which trains a huge majority of the doctors of Ecuador as well as international students. It has one of the largest and most well-run emergency rooms in the city.
And in conjunction with the Metrofraternidad Foundation, Hospital Metropolitano is noted for its social work and has special programs which provide its already reasonably priced services as no-cost medical care for the city’s poor.
Hospitalario Kennedy
Grupo Hospitalario Kennedy Hospital/Clinica Kennedy, Guayaquil, Ecuador
Back in Guayaquil, you also have the choice of visiting the smaller Clinica Kennedy, one of the Grupo Hospitalario Kennedy’s many hospitals.
Founded in 1978, Clinica Kennedy is a university hospital with a special emphasis on medical visualization technologies and integrated digital medical record services, in addition to programs devoted to in-vitro fertilization, stem cell research, and molecular biology.
With a staff of over 250 staff medical specialists and only 125 hospital beds, the care offered in its emergency and trauma units, clinical laboratory, diagnostic center, intensive care unit, neonatal intensive care, and cardiopulmonary unit is personal and devoted.
Junta de Beneficencia de Guayaquil
Hospital de Niños Dr. Roberto Gilbert Elizalde, Guayaquil, Ecuador
The fourth highest ranked on our list is Ecuador’s premiere children’s hospital: the Hospital de Niños Roberto Gilbert Elizalde. Also a teaching hospital, it focuses in-depth on all aspects of pediatrics.
It provides medical care at several levels and possesses both regular facilities and specialized private facilities for the children of wealthier clients. The hospital uses the cost of their fancier areas to offset the cost of the cheaper but still nice general facilities.
With historic claims back to a nineteenth century clinic at a different site, the Hospital de Niños Roberto Gilbert Elizalde is arguably the oldest hospital on our list. However its current building was finished in 1999 and opened in 2000 to much acclaim.
salud de Ecuador
Hospital Eugenio Espejo, Quito, Ecuador
With the best google reviews (all of our entries have over 4 stars, but at 4.5 this hospital has the populist vote), the fifth entry on our list is back in the capital of Quito.
Built in 1912 at the behest of the national government, Hospital Eugenio Espejo is the premiere national hospital of Ecuador and is the epicenter for the Ecuadorian national health policy and medical education. It features the most comprehensive array of general medical practices, including:
- Transplant services
- Service of infectious diseases
- Orthotic and prosthetic workshops
- A service unit of comprehensive care for the elderly
- Rheumatology
- Imaging services
- Clinical neurology
- Internal medicine
- Physical medicine and rehabilitation
- Clinical laboratory and pathology
- Immunology
- Hematology services
- Emergency services
- Epidemiology services
- Coloproctology services
Don’t Worry, Ecuador Has Quality Dental Care Too
Unlike the other entries on the list, Hospital Eugenio Espejo should be especially noted for offering dental services.
Contrary to conceptions of concern regarding dental service outside the United States, Ecuador is particularly well noted for its excellent dental services. Featuring highly trained dentists and dental hygienists, dental clinics in Ecuador are well reviewed for utilizing the most cutting edge dental technologies and their exceptional performance of procedures at a fraction of the cost of similar work in the United States.
Voz Andes
There Are Many Hospitals to Choose from, Even If They Didn’t Make Our List
Also in Quito is the missionary general Hospital Voz Andes. A cozy 104-bed hospital, it was founded in 1955 by the Catholic Ecuadorian-founded enterprise HCJB Global Hands.
With a well-equipped twenty-four hour emergency room, it handles trauma cases, but it is particularly noted for the rehabilitative care of its physical, occupation, and speech therapy programs and its mental health counseling services.
Though none of Ecuador’s third largest city, Cuenca, made the top five list, there are several well deserved honorable mentions. And as medical tourism rises in the region, it is very likely that these already fine establishments will only continue to accrue further and further medical accolades and reviews.
Hospital Universitario del Rio
This hospital is Cuenca’s newest and fanciest hospital. Opened in 2009, it is a mixture of state-of-the-art technology, spacious rooms, and customer service. Located on the edge of Cuenca, it too, is a teaching hospital whose academic profile is rapidly climbing the ranks of the international medical community.
It features a clinical laboratory, microbiology laboratory, retail pharmacy, as well as units devoted to gastroenterology, adult intensive care, surgery, neonatal intensive care, and pediatric intensive care, among others.
Hospital Santa Inés
In the center of Cuenca is the Hospital Santa Inés (or St. Agnes). The Hospital of Santa Inés is a smaller hospital than the Hospital Universitario del Rio, but as it is located proximally to the University of Cuenca and the parts of town where the majority of expats live—it is much closer and easier to get to its emergency room.
Though smaller, Hospital Santa Inés still features seven floors filled with state-of-the-art medical equipment, well-trained staff, and a well-organized ambulance service.
Hospital Mt. Sinai
The oldest Cuenca hospital, the Hospital Mt. Sinai falls between its two sister medical facilities in the city—like the Hosptal Universitario del Rio it is large. In fact, it is based in several buildings, including several modern ones. But its emergency service department is smaller than that at Hospital Santa Inés.
Udri
Medical Tourism in Ecuador
In addition to Ecuador’s well reputed and affordable hospital services, the reasonably priced retirement facilities, rehabilitative training programs, and homeopathic medical communities contribute to Ecuador’s status as a medical tourism destination.
The Ecuadorian government seems committed to providing national healthcare at international standards to citizens and visitors alike, going so far as to recently raise its government health budget and to favorably handle recent debts incurred by private hospitals in the nation.
And with such an emphasis, it seems likely that Ecuador’s health system will only thrive further, extending its top-notch urban care out further into the countryside.
Before you settle down in Ecuador, research your current and speculative health needs thoroughly and make sure you are near to the kind of medical service you might require.
Editor’s Note: The rankings are determined by the Cybermetrics lab of the National Research Council in Spain (Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC) which is devoted to identifying the best international digital presences of world hospitals and augmented by expat opinions and reviews.
If you are in Ecuador, reading this, and currently experiencing a medical emergency, you can call an ambulance at 911, the Red Cross at 131, the local police at 101, and if in Quito, the Quito Fire Department at 102.
Viva Tropical Radio
Author Buddy Levy joins the show to discuss his book Conquistador: Hernan Cortes, King Montezuma, and the Last Stand of the Aztecs.
We discuss the story of a driven conquistador and what led to the defeat of an Aztec King. We are sure you will be surprised by the events that ultimately became one of history’s most intriguing meetings between two very different cultures.
Listen to this can’t-miss episode and learn what it felt like to be in Mexico 500 years ago.
In this episode, we discuss:
- What huge advantages Cortes exploited against the Aztec empire
- How a fateful sightseeing trip with King Montezuma led to a brilliant attack plan for the Conquistador
- That taxes used to be paid in humans in the Aztec system of rule
And much more.
Listen to the show
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- Click here to download the mp3
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- Click here for the show archive
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Send us your thoughts any time in an email or comment below.
The Show Notes
- Buy Buddy’s book here
- Learn more about Buddy Levy
Mario Arias
Does your idea of owning property in the tropics involve a panoramic view of your own private beach, the presence of abundant exotic plants and animals, and the absence of annoyances like noisy neighbors, motorized vehicles, and tourist traps?
If so, then perhaps you should expand your real estate search parameters to include island properties or even entire islands for sale in Latin America. And, for some really great island options, might we also suggest narrowing your search to Panama.
Off its Pacific and Caribbean coasts lie a number of spectacular, often uninhabited, islands whose ecosystems include rainforests, coral reefs, mangroves, cloud forests, and sandy beaches. And these are home to tropical flowers, shady palms, ancient trees, and animals you’ve never seen in any textbook.
Once relatively unknown, Panama’s islands have been gaining popularity as the country’s government has taken a number of drastic measures to encourage both tourism and investment in the country and its many archipelagos.
Today there are a number of private islands for sale, including some that are going for rock-bottom prices, making them primed for impressive appreciation as improvements to the country’s already good infrastructure continue to cause property values to climb.
While there are a few restrictions, it’s entirely possible for foreigners to own islands or waterfront island lots in Panama. In fact, the entire buying process in Panama is relatively simple compared to many of its Central American neighbors.
We’ve written more extensively about the steps in our Panama real estate guide. Here’s a quick recap, along with a few stipulations that apply specifically to island property.
Rights of Possession vs. Titled Property
In Panama, there are two types of property available for purchase. The first is titled property which, once purchased, belongs to you and is titled in your name in the public registry. You pay taxes on it and can do with it as you wish.
With Rights of Possession (ROP) property, the title is owned by the Panamanian government. You can still use it however you’d like. You just don’t hold the title and, consequently, you don’t pay property taxes.
Sound kind of cool, yet a little bit scary at the same time? Yeah, you’re right on both counts. ROP property can be a great investment. It’s also one of the best, if not only, ways to get your hands on some really desirable real estate in Panama, as most (but not all) islands and beachfront properties are ROP land.
The way to eliminate any risks associated with this type of real estate purchase is to do your due diligence to research the ownership rights. There may be conflicting claims to the property, involving multiple parties or even several generations of family members. There can also be squatters who might make a claim for the land.
Resolving any of these potential issues on the front end is absolutely essential to purchasing ROP property and being able to walk away from the transaction with peace of mind, knowing no one else can come back and try to take it for themselves.
Don’t Even Start the Process Without Consulting an Attorney
At this point, it may go without saying (but we’re going to say it anyway)…you absolutely need to hire a qualified attorney who has experience with all types of real estate transactions in Panama, including island real estate and ROP property.
And, by experience, we mean someone who has verifiable references or who comes highly recommended by another friend or professional whom you know and trust. Not just the one with the best website or the neatly bundled real estate buying package with the price tag that ends in $???.99.
Even if your real estate transaction seems straightforward enough, we strongly suggest hiring a qualified attorney, realtor, and any other professional(s) you need to handle the entire process and save you a lot of headaches. Having a team of professionals you can trust is the most important piece of the puzzle that comes together into a picture of you lying in that hammock without a care in the world.
The Buying Process
At the end of the day, the process of buying an island in Panama looks a lot like buying real estate pretty much anywhere in North America. You’ll search online or with a realtor and look at places you’re considering. Note: There’s no MLS in Panama, so you do have to get a bit more creative in order to find available properties. Our Panama Real Estate site is a good place to start.
Once you find the right one, you’ll sign a contract and pay a deposit, like earnest money. Once the title or ownership rights have been researched (this is generally the longest part of the process and may also include a survey), you’ll complete a bill of sale and have it notarized. Then a new title or certificate will be created and approved.
When all is in order, and not a minute before, then you’ll actually transfer the money to the seller from the bank or escrow company who’s been holding it in trust. You’ll also pay any other applicable commissions or service charges, like closing costs. If your property is titled, it can then be recorded in the public registry.
A Note About Waterfront Property
There is a specific restriction regarding beachfront property, which also affects island owners. The first 20 meters from the high tide mark on all Panama beaches is public access. So if you plan to build anything within this area, you’ll need to obtain a concession. This applies to anything from a pier to entire home on stilts over the water.
This process can take a while, and unfortunately you’ll need the concession in order to get a building permit. The good news is that this only applies to the public access area. All that means is that you’ll need to build your house first, while your request is awaiting approval, and then the dock or waterfront gazebo can come later.
Panama’s Most Attractive Archipelagos
So, now that you know how, all that’s really left is WHERE you should search for your island home in Panama. Here are a few of the most beautiful and popular choices.
VivaTropical
Boca Chica
When we mentioned those areas where island real estate can be had for a bargain with some incredible investment potential to boot, this is the main place we had in mind. Boca Chica, on Panama’s Pacific coast, is a true hidden gem that is just beginning to come into its own as a destination for island lovers, fishing enthusiasts, and investors.
With over 50 islands, boasting all kinds of ecosystems, this archipelago is absolutely breathtaking. There’s currently little in the way of tourist infrastructure, which offers a practically blank slate for entrepreneuring expats.
And tourists are definitely anticipated, as the nearby (less than an hour away) Enrique Malek International Airport in David will soon be receiving flights from the U.S. and other destinations for the first time ever. These along with several other infrastructure improvements will mean big things for the Boca Chica area.
The islands themselves, including Boca Chica Island, a 400-acre private development and the home of our latest Adventure Colony, are wild and untouched. Although only a few minutes from the mainland by boat, you’ll feel like you’re a million miles and several centuries away from civilization.
Gaspar Serrano
Pearl Islands
Located near the capital of Panama City, the Pearl Islands can be reached in 15 minutes by plane or 2 hours by ferry. Once there, you’ll feel immediately a part of the rich history of pirates and treasures that gave the archipelago its name.
On the islands you’ll find secluded beaches, bird sanctuaries, coral reefs, and only a few small settlements, although tourism has been increasing as of late. The islands’ beautiful beaches have formed the backdrop for the filming of several seasons of the hit series “Survivor.”
The calm waters surrounding the islands are ideal for fishing, snorkeling, and sailing. The enhanced focus on tourism makes these islands another great investment opportunity.
The most visited of the Pearl Islands, Contadora (so named because it was the location where the pirates counted their pearls), is a resort island where many wealthy Panamanians and foreigners own second homes. There are also a number of luxury tourist accommodations.
Panapro
Bocas del Toro
On Panama’s Caribbean coast, is the archipelago of Bocas del Toro, Panama’s most visited tourist destination. The epitome of the laid-back Caribbean lifestyle, its postcard-worthy skyline includes a number of dwellings and other tourist attractions built out on stilts atop the water.
This archipelago is a popular place for snorkeling and scuba diving, as well as surfing. It has also hosted episodes of the “Survivor” series and as a result has been gaining even more popularity among tourists worldwide.
The six large and numerous small islands offer spectacular beaches that stand out against the thick rainforests, making it an ideal place for ecotourism. However, it also has its share of development, particularly on Isla Colon, which has a fair share of tourist accommodations and a small airport that offers daily flights to Panama City and David.
Although it’s the most developed of Panama’s archipelagos, there are still remote lots that can be found for a reasonable deal if you’re willing to venture away from the tourist areas.
Seibert
Veraguas Islands
If you’re looking to get out…way out…then Veraguas Island and its surrounding area might be a good place to check out. This remote group of islands is covered in lush jungles and offers proximity to Coiba National Park, which includes the largest uninhabited, forested island in the Americas.
The islands also boast a varied assortment of marine life, some white sand beaches, and a number of possibilities for their use. They would make a great setting for a remote residence, an ecotourism outfit, or a private resort in an untouched natural setting.
These ideas should give you a great start, but there are plenty of other islands to choose from in Panama and beyond. Check back frequently to our listings of islands for sale throughout Latin America.
Andrew Henderson travels the world looking for opportunity and ways to protect his wealth. Find out why he is absolutely convinced you are insane to not keep some of your wealth in a different country.
We also talk about second passports and opening foreign bank accounts as further ways to diversify your exposure to liability. The offshore world can be complicated and vast, but all you need is a little knowledge to get started.
Tune in now and begin moving down the path before it’s too late.
In this episode, we discuss:
- Why you need to get some money offshore now.
- Why you need a second passport.
- How to get a new offshore bank account.
- Why you can’t rely on your government to protect all your wealth.
And much more.
Listen to the show
You can listen to the show using the player above or grab it and listen on the go via one of the following options:
- Click here to download the mp3
- Click here to subscribe via iTunes
- Click here for the RSS feed (non iTunes)
- Click here for the show archive
React to the Show
We appreciate your reaction to episodes of Viva Radio and feedback about how we’re doing.
Send us your thoughts any time in an email or comment below.
The Show Notes
- Who is Andrew Henderson?
- Andrew’s website Nomad Capitalist
- Vivatropical Offshore Strategy Guide
What’s your favorite part about the tropics?
Is it the warm sea breezes? Maybe the laid-back lifestyle? Maybe it’s just the idea of being in a land that offers more freedom. Or maybe getting some of your life back by having great domestic help?
Today, let’s see some Hibiscus!
First, you have to understand that these flowers are HUGE!
So it’s rainy season now and we’re getting ready to do some planting on our island and out on our Burica project. I’ve been looking for hibiscus, which there is quite a bit of here in Panama.
But I hit the mother load today!
I found a lady that has over 100 colors of hibiscus! 100 different colors!
I mean, really….100 different colors? At any rate, I snapped a few photos as I was buying them. Were planning on loading down the parcels with them so that we’ll have our own little mini “vivero” or nursery on the property.
And if you don’t know much about hibiscus (other than that there are tons of colors and the flowers get big!), then they grow tall. Like 15′ tall, tall. They are great for planting property lines.
As far as where to plant them, they don’t like overly wet areas. So don’t put them where you might have water pooling. They are also an extremely hardy plant. Josh was just mentioning to me that they are planting them in his back yard at the moment. They literally broke off some of the branches, stuck them in the ground, and left them.
Then there are some certain fertilizers that make them flower more. You can trim them or just let them go nuts, like these that you see in the photos.
They prefer sun over shade.
So what are your favorite flowers in the tropics? Even better. Why do you love the tropics?
Joseph Dsilva
If you’re planning on moving to southern Costa Rica, or at least spending a considerable amount of time there, then Uvita, Costa Rica, is a place you’ll probably end up frequenting. While not a highly sought-after destination in its own right, it’s an important one for those living in the more popular Costa Rican beach hotspots that surround it.
Located on Coastal Highway 34 (Costanera Sur), it’s conveniently situated close to a lot of popular destinations in Costa Rica, such as Dominical, Hatillo, Coronado, and Ojochal. And thanks to Uvita’s recent growth, it serves as a place where residents of those towns can find basic services or stock up on goods, saving them the trip to San Isidro in the mountains.
Uvita, Costa Rica, is a great commercial hub for the surrounding towns
Just a few short years ago, travelers passing through Uvita were greeted with one small soda (another word for a Costa Rican diner), a local grocery store, a machine shop, and a sprinkling of residential areas. However, much has changed in recent years.
One of the fastest growing communities in the Southern Zone, Uvita, Costa Rica, now boasts 2 major grocery stores, a number of restaurants, furniture stores, several banks, and even a new recreation center which plays host to an organic market each weekend. As a result, it’s the commercial center of the Costa Ballena area.
Because of its convenient location, it’s also the place to go to find a number of tours to allow you to explore the incredible beauty that surrounds Uvita. There are opportunities for whale watching, snorkeling excursions, and ATV jungle tours. Uvita also offers a few lodging options for tourists from hostels all the way up to luxurious boutique hotels.
The area around Uvita is packed with nature and adventure
Just to the south of Uvita, Costa Rica, is Marino Ballena National Park. One of the most picturesque parks in Costa Rica, it’s a great place for hiking, kayaking through the mangroves, exploring the rainforests, birdwatching, scuba diving or snorkeling, horseback riding, rafting, rappelling, and sport fishing.
Nearby Dominical has emerged as one of the region’s most popular surfing spots, with waves perfect for beginners as well as those with more experience. Corcovado National Park is also a short distance away and is considered one of the most biodiverse places on earth. Also close by is Coronado, which offers stunning views of the mountains, the sea, and the rushing river.
The jungle-covered mountains to the east of Uvita are full of spectacular waterfalls, some of which are rumored to be among the country’s best. In fact, the entire stretch of coastline, from Dominical all the way down to Corcovado National Park, is stunningly gorgeous.
B.D. Hagg
Uvita has its fair share of attractions as well
That’s not to say that there’s nothing at all to see and do right in the heart of Uvita. In fact, there are a number of expats from North America and Europe who have made Uvita, Costa Rica, their home.
The town is growing rapidly, both with residential and commercial developments. It even hosts an annual Envision Festival, which highlights various forms of music, art, and dance.
It isn’t exactly a beach town, but it’s fairly close to the shore. Nearby at the Marino Ballena National Park is a unique beach that forms the shape of a whale’s tale where two bays come together. (It’s much more evident when viewed from the air.) During low tide you can hike out on the rocks to the point at the tail’s end. Just make sure you leave plenty of time to get back before the tide rises.
Ironically, the waters off the coast of Uvita are a fantastic place to spot humpback whales which migrate between the months of December and April. You can also go swimming or snorkeling in the calm waters or stroll along the white sand beach.
The area doesn’t offer nearly the same surfing conditions as some of its neighboring towns, but it’s still a decent place for beginners to dabble in the surf. You can also take a kayak tour of the nearby mangroves and estuaries.
Bodhi Surf
But you’ll likely prefer another town as your final destination
Ultimately, while you could get by with a meager vacation to Uvita, there are far more interesting places nearby. And, while it does have a decent beach nearby and enough attractions to keep you entertained for a few days, you’d be selling yourself short to choose it over all the other amazing beach towns in Costa Rica.
A better option? Choose one of the other fabulous towns near Uvita that have much more to offer in the way of ecotourism, nature, and coastal living. Save Uvita as the place to do your banking or stock up on groceries when your provisions are running low.
While it plays an important role in the region, among the surrounding cities, it’s an up-and-coming commercial hub. Not a thriving tourist and expat community.
Map of Uvita, Costa Rica
Uvita, Costa Rica Fast Facts
- Population: 1000+
- Typical temperature: average maximum temperature is 32℃ / 90℉
- Nearest airport with U.S. flights: San Jose, Costa Rica
- Nearest U.S. consulate: San Jose, Costa Rica
Everyone wants their own island. It’s a scientific fact. And, studies have shown that if you own one, you are cool. The very fact that you are an owner means you join an elite group of people. We don’t want to come off as overly snobbish, but the idea is that islands are cool and so are island owners. And, more importantly, it’s not as hard as you think it is to own one.
Photo by Mor
Why Buy Your Own Private Island
There are many reasons why someone would want their own island. One type of person would want the seclusion necessary to build a secret villain lair (only kidding). But, the privacy that you receive as a result of owning a private island is unparalleled. You are the master of your domain!
Another reason to buy your own island is the fact that it may be cheaper to own than waterfront property in the States. In Central America, there are several listing sites you can check out that have affordable properties, like our listing site!
It’s not about being listed among Ellison, Gates, or Jay-Z, either. While looking at their million-dollar islands is really fun, many islands in the Caribbean can be had for less than $1,000,000.
Boris G.
What Sorts of Factors Should Play into Buying Your Own Island?
First and foremost, the most important factor is (say it with me) location, location, location. If your island is out in the middle of the Pacific, hours by private plane from anywhere, the expenses will add up. But, then again, that may be the style of island you’re looking for! For most, you’ll want an island no more than an hour away by boat from a town of importance for provisioning purposes.
The amount of privacy that your island affords you may also be important to you. For one, an island in the middle of nowhere will give you a lot of privacy. Other islands for sale, especially the more affordable ones, may be a part of a larger archipelago and be relatively close to other islands. Who knows… your neighbors might be nice!
Water
Yet another factor you’ll want to consider is water: both fresh and saltwater. Does your island have a freshwater spring? That would be very important, or you’re going to run into headaches down the line. I hear that desalination facilities are quite expensive these days!
Utilities
Other islands closer to the mainland may have utilities provided by the shore. Even more amazing, ones in tropical locations may be able to subsist on rainwater alone. It’s all about understanding the ecosystem where your island lives.
How are you going to turn the lights on? Many islands have generators, and with the rapid drop in price of solar panels, islands are becoming more and more equipped with power day-by-day. An internet connection seems necessary these days, and can be provided by satellite, though that is still costly.
You’ll also want to know about the water around your island. Is it full of reefs, making it hard to land ships? Is it good for diving?
Titles
A major issue is ownership rights of the islands. Hiring a local expert is key for this matter, as the local government may have special rules about resource ownership, beach ownership, or what improvements you may make to your new land. And, you’ll want to make sure there are no indigenous land rights issues involved, as those can play a role in the purchasing predicament.
Caretakers
Many island owners have bought these pieces of paradise to retire, and so they choose to higher a local employee to live on the island and care after it, especially if they are not living on the island full-time.
Living Quarters
Finally, and most importantly, does your island already have a house on it? Many islands come ‘unimproved,’ which means the burden is on you to construct a home, utilities, septic system, and dock. This is a major undertaking, and could skyrocket the final price of your paradise. And, if there is a house already on the island, is it up to your standards of building? Many homes may not be hurricane or weather-ready.
Cool Islands to Aspire to Buy
Everyone needs a goal in life, right? Well, if your goal is to own the largest private island, you’re in for some stiff competition. Let’s take a look at some heavy-hitter island owners.
Larry Ellison
Larry Ellison bought Lanai. Like, the Hawaiian island. Well, 98% of the island, which includes 88,000 acres of pineapple plantations and fifty miles of beaches. The price was undisclosed, but rest assured it was in the hundreds of millions, if not billions.
Richard Branson
One of the more famous private island owners, you can actually stay on Branson’s Necker Island, in the British Virgin Islands. But, it will cost you. The $293 million dollar, 74-acre island hosts celebrity getaways and weddings all the time, and you can bet the price tag matches the cache.
David Copperfield
Magic pays off, apparently. David Copperfield purchased Musha Cay in the Bahamas, which is really 11 separate islands transformed into a resort paradise. The price for landlubbers to come ashore? Just $265,000 a week.
Mel Gibson
If there’s someone that needs a private island with lots of privacy, it’s Mel Gibson. He bought an island in Fiji, Mago Island, in 2005. At 8.5 square miles, and 166 miles by sea away from the capital of Fiji, Suva, I’m guessing that he’ll have plenty there.
Louis Moore Bacon
Mr. Bacon wins the prize for buying a non-tropical island. His $11 million dollar island off the shores of New York isn’t his private paradise. He’s made it a point to restore the island to its former glory, ravaged by logging and deforestation. The island has some of the best turtle populations in New York. And, for fun, Bacon leads his friends on hunts of the invasive deer population on occasion. It’s fun, and good for the environment!
Sergio Quesada
So, you’ve seen your competition, and you’ve seen what it takes to own an island. Do you still want to own one? As mentioned above, it’s not as expensive as you think to own your own paradise. If you are still interested, definitely check out our listing page here, and see if any of the islands match your dreams.
Viva Tropical Radio
The Darien Gap is a roadless, jungle-covered gap of land that stretches from the Caribbean to the Pacific ocean, covering the edge of the Panama-Colombia border.
It is referred to as a gap because there are no roads and it is the only space or gap in the Pan-American Highway that stretches from Alaska to southern Chile. It is not the biggest undeveloped jungle area, but it is probably the most dangerous.
People who know where it is stay away based on a history of FARC kidnappings and well documented lawlessness. Most that venture into the area don’t want to be found.
Author Martin Mitchinson tells how he ended up in the Darien and spent 18 months there. Tune in and listen to his story and why he wrote a book about it called The Darien Gap, Travels in the rainforest in Panama.
In this episode, we discuss:
- Why the Darien is not as dangerous as they say
- Darien Gap’s storied history all the way back to conquistadors
- What indigenous groups live there
- What Martin did on a daily basis while he was there
And much more.
Listen to the show
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Send us your thoughts any time in an email or comment below.
The Show Notes
Get Martin Mitchinson’s book here
Marissa Strniste
Costa Rica has been an increasingly popular destination among tourists and expats for several decades. And, while it stands out heads above the rest for its abundance of untamed nature and the healthy lifestyle it offers, cost of living in Costa Rica is not among its biggest selling points.
While still considerably cheaper than the cost to live a vacation-worthy lifestyle in a comparable North American city (as if there were any that could hold a candle to Costa Rica), the cost of living in Costa Rica is actually among the highest in Latin America. It’s also THE highest in Central America.
Yet the number of tourists it draws each year and the hordes of expats who’ve chosen to call it home have hardly dwindled despite the rising costs. Let’s dig a little bit deeper into what’s really driving the cost of living in Costa Rica and why so many North Americans still think it’s totally worth it.
So, just how much higher is the cost of living in Costa Rica?
Like any other factor, the cost of living in Costa Rica can vary drastically from one area to the next. It also depends entirely on your lifestyle.
Live in some relatively unknown place that’s off the beaten path with few amenities and poor infrastructure and you can get by on $1500 or less per month for a family of two.
On the other hand, if you decide to make your home in a newly renovated high-rise condo in the Central Valley where you dine out every night and shop to your heart’s content, you could easily need double or even triple that amount of money to live.
But let’s talk in generalities for a moment.
The Economist publishes a study called The Big Mac Index, named for McDonald’s large greasy burger. It compares the purchasing power of different currencies by comparing the cost of like items (i.e. the Big Mac) among countries to see how over- or under-valued their money is.
In January 2014, the average price of a U.S. Big Mac was $4.62. In Costa Rica it was $4.28. To reference a few other Latin American nations, Mexico was $2.78, Colombia $4.34, Peru $3.56, and Venezuela a whopping $7.15. (No other Central American countries made the study.)
Not everything is more expensive in Costa Rica.
While this index gives a decent baseline for comparing prices, it’s far from being the definitive word on the cost of living in third-world countries. Sure, a Big Mac might rival U.S. prices, but there are a number of things that still cost considerably less in Costa Rica.
For example, due to the inexpensive cost of labor, many services can be had for a very reasonable price tag. Domestic help, like a maid or cook, can start as low as $3 per hour. A haircut will only set you back $3 or $4. Even the labor for auto repairs comes at an inexpensive rate. It’s the parts that will set you back a pretty penny.
Education in Costa Rica is affordable as is the country’s health care (even at private facilities), which is of the highest quality. Property taxes are also low.
There are also a number of things that generally run about the same as their North American counterparts. Expenses in this category include utilities and services such as internet, cable, cell phone plans, water, and electricity. You can expect to pay about the same for these as you would in the U.S. although, depending on your location, you may have no need for heating and/or air conditioning expenses.
Housing is also relatively inexpensive, with nice-size well-appointed accommodations ranging from $500 to $1500 per month. However, as with all the above, it’s important to consider what you’re comparing these costs to.
While much less on average than in the U.S., Canada, or Europe, individual budget items in Costa Rica can run significantly higher than in the rest of Central America.
What are Costa Rica’s big budget busters?
To answer this question, it’s important to consider a few important factors about the country. First of all, Costa Rica is a small country that must import a large number of the items people use for daily living. Add up the cost to get the items brought over plus the hefty import taxes the government loves to tack on, and things like automobiles and appliances can become incredibly expensive.
On a smaller scale, the same is true for everyday items like imported wines or brand name peanut butter. So, to save considerably on your household expenditures, avoid anything imported.
The country’s relatively high utility costs are another big contributor to the higher cost of living in Costa Rica. They’re due to the monopoly held by government-run ICE (Instituto Costarricense de Electricidad, or the Costa Rican Institute of Electricity). Phone charges are based on usage, so you’ll pay depending on the amount of talking you do.
Any vehicles brought into the country carry an extremely high import tax. Car tags are quite pricey as well. Gas in Costa Rica is also expensive, generally $1 to $2 more per gallon than in the U.S., which adds even more to the cost of owning a vehicle in Costa Rica.
The poor driving conditions on Costa Rica’s subpar roads create additional wear and tear on vehicles, which creates the need for frequent mechanical work. In short, if you’re budget-conscious, don’t try to own a vehicle in Costa Rica. Public transportation is a much more affordable option.
Ever Jean
What about food costs in Costa Rica?
This category also varies quite a bit depending on what and where you eat. Dining out, as evidenced by the Big Mac study, can get expensive fast. That is, unless you dine at “sodas,” which are small, locally-run eating establishments. You can eat at local restaurants for $2 to $4 per person instead of the $15 to $20 you could expect to pay for a nice restaurant or chain franchise.
If you like to cook, your best bet is to shop at local markets or do business with street vendors. You can choose from a great variety of locally-grown produce, beans, rice, and meat for a fraction of what you’d pay at the big box supermarkets, which closely resemble and even trace their roots back to some well-known U.S. chains.
At the local street fairs you can buy big bunches of bananas for $.40 and large pineapples for only $1. You can also get freshly baked bread much cheaper (around $1.25 for a large loaf) from the local bakeries. On average, you can save about 30% on your grocery bill by avoiding the supermarkets.
You might expect great deals on fish and other seafood, but even these can get a little pricey, especially the further you get from the coast. Your best bet here is to make the occasional trip to the coastal areas to stock up at lower prices.
Why pay more to live in Costa Rica?
That’s an easy question to answer. And, no, we’re not going to say that you get what you pay for. Although you do.
The fact is that putting the cost of living in Costa Rica up against other Central American countries is hardly an apples to apples comparison. Sure you can find cheaper places to live, some even awfully close by. But Costa Rica offers so much more.
In Costa Rica, you get a well-educated strong middle class population who are friendly and welcoming to outsiders. You get low crime and political stability. And, dare we forget to mention, you get one of the most amazingly beautiful settings on the entire planet.
Most importantly, though, you get choices. With so many options available, in terms of housing, consumer goods, and services and amenities, you can pick and choose what’s important to you in Costa Rica.
If you want to live, eat, and dress like a local so you can save up most of your dollars for travel throughout the region, you can totally do that. If you’d rather live like a king in the big city so that you never have any desire to go anywhere else, then that’s also an option.
So if this top expat destination is on your short list of countries you’re considering, don’t let the marginally higher cost of living in Costa Rica dissuade you.
To figure out what Costa Rican lifestyle best matches your interests and passions, check out more of our articles about this fantastic destination.
Ever dream about a laid-back beach town where you can forget about it all and surf to your heart’s content? Do you envy the people kicking back in their ocean view homes, watching the world pass them by? You can have all of this and more in Dominical, Costa Rica, a town four hours away from San Jose by car and lining the Pacific Coast. Ever want to know more about Dominical? Here’s your article. We hope to cover all the basics of this paradise in paradise.
Wikimedia
What Is Dominical Costa Rica?
Dominical opportunistically lines the Pacific Coast of Costa Rica, right along the South Pacific Highway that runs all the way to Panama City, Panama. It is famous for its surf culture, with plenty of surf schools aiming to get you upright on the waves, as well as the thriving marine life off the coast, like whales.
The people here are very much in tune with the earth, appreciating the surrounding rainforest full of flora, fauna, waterfalls, and caves, all there waiting for you to explore.
For those that want to get more in tune with themselves, yoga studios have popped up in town, and the rainforest provides the perfect backdrop for some soul-searching. For more information on some great communities in Costa Rica, check out our Costa Rica page.
Where Is Dominical?
Roman Königshofer
As stated earlier, Dominical is located along the Pacific Coast of Costa Rica, 27 miles south of Quepos. The town itself existed before the highway that has been paved in the recent decade. That was quite a change in the town.
Better Access Leads to More Expats and Tourists
The positives of all this paving is that the town is more accessible to you, but the downside is that more people other than you have access to this town now!
However, Dominical still has dirt roads within the city limits, even some of the main roads, which adds to the laid-back charm of the city.
Casa Ramon
Head to the Hills
Another charming aspect of the city are the plunging cliffs into the sea, a beautiful blue that you only find in Costa Rica. It’s in these hills, areas known as Escalaras or Hatillo, and Legunas, that most expats live.
Here you’ll find the other side of the coin when it comes to what’s amazing about Dominical. The out of this world views from a jungle perched above the ocean are the magic of the area.
Around the town are plenty of natural estuaries and mangroves that are rapidly disappearing across the planet. This naturally lends itself to some great bird watching. For a more general overview, you can check out this site.
What’s the Weather Like?
Similar to other beach towns close by to Dominical, the dry season runs from December until April, and wet season from May until November. The surfing season, however, runs year round, with the premium waves during June through September. The sandy bottom of the sea here makes worries about crashing into rocks drift away.
Temperatures year-round range from 25 degrees Centigrade to 31 degrees Centigrade, typical of the region. There is a lot of rain during the rainy season, with months averaging 22-25 days of rain, but in the dry months of January and February, only 3 days of rainfall on average.
How Did Dominical Come to Be?
The town was first put on the map by the rest of the world by, you guessed it, surfers. In the 1970s, they found this town with reliable waves and settled in.
Besides the random group of surfer-types in the village, not many others traveled to Dominical, Costa Rica. That is, until about fifteen years ago, when naturists started arriving in droves for Dominical, which was at one time a few fishing huts on the beach. The natural beauty remains, though, and you can still walk end-to-end in less than ten minutes.
Now, there are over 700 residents settled here full-time, with high season filling some of the bed-and-breakfasts and cabanas in town. The sleepy village vibe hasn’t been completely lost, though.
What’s the Life Like?
Sergio Quesada
The town itself is decidedly a surfing village, due to the consistent waves found off-shore. That vibe, coupled with the extreme natural beauty surrounding the village, have brought a certain person to settle here.
As mentioned earlier, most expats live above the water in the hills, with supreme ocean views, but others choose to live near the beach, catching the early morning swells. The town appreciates the beauty that is Dominical, trying to carve out an existence within it without detracting from what brought them there in the first place.
What Can I Do in Dominical?
If you haven’t gotten the point so far that there is surfing in Dominical, you should check your glasses! Surfing is KING here in Dominical, and with plenty of places aiming to teach you just how to do it. If you’re looking for lessons, check out Dominical Surf Adventures or Costa Rica Surf Camp. The surf season runs year-round here, but summer months are best with the tropical storms in the Pacific bringing the high tides.
The Eco Life
Ecotourism abounds here in Dominical, with a whole jungle plunging into the sea. Corcovado National Park is nearby, a 103,000 acre park rated by National Geographic as the third best national park in the world. There are 140 different mammals here, and 400 different types of birds. You can hike around, seeing jaguars, sloths, anteaters, monkeys, and amazing sea turtles along the beach. Tours leave from the city, taking a 1.5 hour boat ride to reach the park, and includes about three hours of hiking inside the actual national park.
If you’re into fishing, the healthy ocean awaits you! You can fish for mahi-mahi, sailfish, marlin, and yellow in tuna just outside the borders of Marino Ballena National Park.
Like to be in the ocean rather than on top of it? Well there’s plenty of snorkeling options near Dominical, with many tours making all-day trips of the adventure. You can even combine the excursion with whale watching, knocking out two activities in one! Snorkel through sea caves, alongside dolphins and turtles, all within a national park.
How about the Cuisine?
You’ll find plenty of seafood up and down the coast near Dominical (and we’d expect that, wouldn’t we?). As mentioned in the fishing tour paragraphs above, mahi-mahi and tuna should be a common site on menus. Land-based food is also plentiful, with fresh vegetables coming from farms up in the mountains.
For Dominical (and neighboring Uvita, 12 miles south), you’ll find low to mid-ranged priced food, very typically Costa Rican. Nayoa and Salon Cocal have casados (which is meat, rice, beans, salad and plantains), all for less than $7. Other internationally-focused restaurants include the Mexican restaurant San Clemente’s, Thai restaurant Coconut Spice, and vegetarian Maracatu.
If you’re looking for more expensive dining options, Ojochal, 19 miles south of Dominical, has what you’re looking for, with more fine dining rather than beachside fare.
How Developed Is Dominical?
Roman Königshofer
Dominical is rapidly catching up with the world, though still lags in many of the creature comforts of home. However, most basic needs can be found in town. There is constant electricity in the area, as well as internet and phone services. There is no major hospital in town, but one in Cortés (3o minutes away) is due to be completed soon. For now, a doctor’s office for minor emergencies and a pharmacy should suffice. Blood testing can be done 40 minutes away in San Isidro, which also offers CAT scans.
There is a Bank of Costa Rica branch in town, which also features an ATM machine, accepting VISA debit cards. For internet junkies, you can hook up service to your home, or there are two internet cafés in town.
For security, you’ll find a 24-hour checkpoint at the beginning of town, manned by police. There are about five police officers based at the police station in town.
You’ll find the eco-friendly and arts-centric town offers recycling programs, as well as movie nights and English-language theater!
One major benefit of living in this area is that the entire “Southern Zone” as this area is dubbed is not overrun with development, at least not yet. Despite it growing in popularity over the past decade, there isn’t a major chain hotel to be seen to spoil the virgin coast.
What Do I Need to Live in Costa Rica?
As a North American, you can stay in Costa Rica for at most, three months at a time. You won’t need to get a visa before traveling here, but proof of onward travel is required to gain entry. Though, don’t worry if you run out of days, you’ll just have to leave the country for 72 hours and then return back for another three months! You can even own a car, property, business and be self-employed. How’s that for friendly service?
If you want residency, you’ll have to have at least $1,000 coming in the door. Investment income must be above $2,500 a month. However, you can get around all of this by investing $200,000 in something like property. After three years of this, you can receive unrestricted residency, which requires a $1100 fee for adults and $600 fee for children, and must be renewed each year.
If you earn money outside Costa Rica, that isn’t taxed. Inside Costa Rica, personal taxes are very low. Sales tax is high, at 13%, and you can face import duties of up to 90% for a vehicle. Property taxes are quite low here as well. If you want to leave the country, you’ll have to pay a $25 exit fee.
Map of Dominical, Costa Rica
Dominical, Costa Rica Fast Facts
- Population: A few hundred residents
- Typical temperature: Average temperature is 80 degrees
- Nearest airport with U.S. flights: San Jose, Costa Rica
- Nearest U.S. consulate: San Jose, Costa Rica
Part of the beauty of living the expat dream is the ability to prioritize. To stop working your fingers to the bone to try and attain that “other” dream and focus on the things that really matter to you and your family.
Two of the main ways that living in Central America allows you to do that is by giving you back control of two of your most important resources. Your time and your money.
With most household budget items–such as housing, utilities, and groceries–costing considerably less than in North America, families have the ability to work less, travel more, and save or splurge in ways they never imagined before.
Robert Gourley
And in a culture that doesn’t overschedule and overprogram their days down to the millisecond, there’s plenty of free time left to focus on the things your family enjoys or simply take the time to just experience life together in your new setting.
What’s even more beautiful is when the two areas combine and that little bit of extra expendable income can be put to use to even further to free up your schedule for more of the things that really matter to your family.
VivaTropical’s Park Wilson weighs in on one of the aspects of expat life that’s had the biggest impact on he, his wife, and their four children.
“Having the ability to hire domestic help has easily been one of the biggest benefits of living in the tropics, at least for my family. We currently have a full-time housekeeper who works 6 days a week in our home. She does all of our cooking and cleaning and even helps us out with the kids. She’s an absolute godsend.”
What having domestic help looks like
For those, including Park and his family, who could never have imagined having domestic help back in the U.S., it might be a bit difficult to picture what that setup looks like. Here’s an overview of what we’re talking about.
Domestic workers can be hired to do as much or as little as you desire. You can hire a full-time maid who lives and eats with your family and handles pretty much all the household chores, such as laundry, cleaning, and more. Or you can have someone who comes in and cleans once a week and or runs your errands. There are a lot of options available.
There are also plenty of folks who work in other capacities besides just housework. You can hire drivers, tutors, handymen, and a number of other types of workers.
“In addition to our housekeeper, we also have a guy who does our gardening and someone who does our grocery shopping,” Park adds. “Being able to hire out all of these tasks frees up our time and allows us to focus on areas where we can really add value and make a difference. For instance, my wife homeschools our kids, and I’m able to work all day without ever having to worry about all those other things.”
And, while such luxuries are practically unheard of in North America (for non-millionaires, anyway), practically every middle class family in Central America has at least some form of domestic help.
“We could never afford this in the U.S. but, with the low cost of living here, cost isn’t really a concern.”
What the responsible hiring of domestic help DOESN’T look like
Even though we’ve discussed a little bit about what having full- or part-time help in the tropics might look like, it’s also worth mentioning what it doesn’t involve. Employing a domestic employee is a business transaction, and it’s your responsibility to be a respectable employer.
It’s not about being a lazy bum and having someone to bring you drinks with little umbrellas, do your bidding, and indulge your every whim. Nor is it in any way a means of taking advantage of cheap labor costs and exploiting hard-working locals.
While the laws vary from one country to the next, there are rules governing how domestic employees are to be treated, the number of hours they can work and when those fall, and what vacation time and other benefits they’re entitled to. You had best become familiar with them and abide by them.
Mistreating or undervaluing your help will quickly earn you the reputation of someone no one wants to work for, and pretty soon you won’t be able to find a single person who’s willing to fill a position in your household.
Instead, hiring domestic help is merely a way of delegating a lot of the time-sucking, mundane tasks you already hate anyway, many of which might even be doubly hard in a developing country with unfamiliar customs and unreliable services and utilities, and being able to focus on the more important things.
Hiring domestic help is mutually beneficial
Responsibly hiring full- or part-time help is also a great way of contributing to the community by providing employment in a field where jobs can be scarce. Domestic workers often make up a large percentage of the workforce in a given area. And turnover can be high.
“You’re basically offering a job that’s as good as any other that is available out there, and by being a great boss and treating your employees with the same respect you want for yourself, you have an opportunity to improve their quality of life as well as your own,” Park explains.
In many cases, domestic workers can even become more like part of the family and not merely employees. “Our previous housekeeper was with us for 5 years. She’s still like another grandmother to our children and someone we value greatly as a friend.”
Kristin & Jordan Hayman
How affordable is domestic help?
The cost of course varies from one area to the next and also depends on the specifics of your particular arrangements. But here are a few examples of the incredibly inexpensive cost of domestic help in the tropics.
In Panama, where Park and his family live, the cost for a full-time maid runs between $250-$350 per month. If you provide them with room and board, then those are additional expenses on top of their base salary.
Domestic help in Belize runs around the same, $350 per month. A maid is a bit more expensive in Costa Rica, but still a great bargain at under $15 per day.
In affordable Nicaragua, the minimum wage for a full-time maid or groundskeeper is $.70 per hour, which comes out to be about $135 per month. And that’s for a 48-hour, 6-day work week.
Domestic help can also be had for a considerable deal in Guatemala, where you can hire a full-time maid for about $150 per month. Maid services in Ecuador range between $200 per month for part-time help (3-4 hours per day) and $250 for full-time (8-hour work days).
So, when you’re considering all the potential advantages your family could enjoy by living overseas as expats, don’t forget to add affordable domestic help to your “pro” column. With such beneficial services available at such a reasonable cost, it’s one of the best ways to add value to your life overseas.
Viva Tropical Radio
This week we are joined by Karl Spaeth, expat business entrepreneur and Nosara Costa Rica resident.
He talks about his long road to figuring out how to support himself while living in paradise. Karl finally came up with the right formula and his business is booming. His product? Temple of White Dog ginger beer.
Join our discussion to find out how Karl went from driving deliveries of his ginger beer on his motorbike to getting approached by an American juice entrepreneur who just sold his own company to Starbucks.
In this episode, we discuss:
- How you can start a similar business.
- How Karl got the attention he needed to sell his ginger beer.
- What licenses he needed, if any.
- If you have your idea, how to get it noticed in Costa Rica.
And much more.
Listen to the show
You can listen to the show using the player above or grab it and listen on the go via one of the following options:
- Click here to download the mp3
- Click here to subscribe via iTunes
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- Click here for the show archive
React to the Show
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Send us your thoughts any time in an email or comment below.
The Show Notes
- Viva Tropical’s Complete Guide to Nosara, Costa Rica
- Learn more about Temple of the White Dog Ginger Beer