After escaping prison in 2001, Joaquin “El Chapo” Guzman became the most wanted criminal in the world. The DEA, FBI, and Mexican authorities were all hunting him, but for some reason they couldn’t find El Chapo over the next decade.
Filmmaker Angus MacQueen doubted that with their virtually limitless resources these government agencies couldn’t find El Chapo, so he set out with a camera to find El Chapo himself and make a movie about the search.
This episode details what he did and how he survived the process. Josh and Angus discuss what it was like to gain unprecedented access into a shadowy world, how Angus became one of the only outsiders to access the Golden Triangle, and if he found El Chapo. The resulting movie is called “Drug Lord: The Legend of Shorty.”
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 Tropical Radio and feedback about how we’re doing. Send us your thoughts any time in an email or comment below.
The Show Notes
- Learn about Angus MacQueen.
- Check out his movie here.
The continuing growth in popularity that Cuenca, Ecuador is enjoying comes as no surprise to expats and investors who have made the decision to become part of this thriving Andean Highlands town. The combination of a great climate, an established expat presence, and property values that are still reasonable are all reasons many prospective expats love Cuenca and why it promises to be a magnet for relocation, retirement, and investment potential for years to come.
Keeping a balance between having the amenities of a major metropolitan community while maintaining the rich, cultural heritage of the region, is an important value-added element to Cuenca’s real estate market. Taking a look at properties, both in the city center and the outlying area, is a good way to get an understanding of what Cuenca may hold for your long-term living and investment plans.
M&MdelEcuador
So Many Reasons to Love Cuenca
There are many reasons to love Cuenca. Discovering and experiencing them firsthand will only add to the allure that has made this vibrant Ecuadorian destination figure so prominently in the future plans of those seeking to live and invest in Latin America.
Awesome Weather
When most people hear the word “tropical,” the first impression concerning the climate is, generally, hot and humid. Cuenca’s weather is a far cry from that stereotypical image. The moderate daytime temperatures average in the high 60s to low 70s, while the nights offer great sleeping weather in the 40s and low 50s. It’s a good idea to have a sweatshirt or jacket available for those evening strolls and early morning walks.
This Andean highlands climate translates into savings on electricity (not needing the air conditioner as often) which in turn makes life more affordable, an important feature for retirees on fixed incomes. Additionally the lower humidity and lower dew points of the region are much more tolerable than humid, tropical locations for those with chronic sinus issues.
A Symbiotic Blend of History and Modern Amenities
Another reason that investors and expats love Cuenca is the unique blend of a historical and cultural setting that comes complete with modern amenities. The clean streets, functioning utilities, access to cable television and high speed internet service mesh perfectly with the colonial buildings, (the city center is a UNESCO World Heritage Site) the vibrant atmosphere of a college town (there are several institutions in Cuenca), and a growing artistic scene.
What makes all of this even more special is the fact that Cuenca is a distance away from the major commercial centers of Guayaquil and Quito. As a result, the area is not burdened with the frenetic pace of a major urban center yet still has all of the infrastructure advantages of those larger communities.
Henry Vélez
A True Sense of Community
Of all the reasons to love Cuenca, one of the most important is having a true sense of belonging to the community. Cuenca is very English-friendly which greatly reduces the trepidation potential expats may have about moving to a country where English is, generally, not the principal language.
The ever-increasing numbers of expats who live there make transitioning to life in Cuenca much easier than other locations. Being able to have contact with those who have already “learned the ropes” is a great way to become part of a significant population group.
An important aspect of the number of foreigners living and investing in Cuenca has been the increasing amount of expat-friendly businesses that cater to these new transplants to highlands life. A new arrival can easily find merchants, restaurants, and entertainment venues where English is spoken as frequently as Spanish.
Great Real Estate Investment Potential
Cuenca’s growing expat community is one of the major financial engines driving the strong return on investment dollars. Here are some prime examples of what is on the market:
- Farm 39 acres / 16 Hectares. For investment and development potential, this 39.5 acre farm located just 13 miles from the heart of Cuenca is a perfect location for residential development. The pasture area, which has good interior roads, ready-to-use building pads, access to electricity, and other basic infrastructure elements is roughly 11 acres in area. The remaining 28 acres is highlands forest; being able to have the natural beauty of the region as a backdrop for homes, and close to the city, makes this an opportunity meriting serious consideration for an incredible price of $160,000.
- Beautiful house in Balzay, Cuenca. Located within walking distance of the Old Cathedral, in the heart of Cuenca, this unique property actually is comprised of two buildings. With 6+ bedrooms and bathrooms total, there is more than sufficient space for a large family. The separate suite, complete with its own kitchen, bedroom, dressing room, and bathroom, is independent from the rest of the house and can only be accessed through the garage. This arrangement makes for a great rental potential even while the property is being used as a retirement or expat home with an unbeatable asking price of $368,000.
- 4 Bed / 3 Bath / Office / 3 story House. Being offered for $380,000, this unique property has ample room for everyone. In addition to the four bedrooms an three bathrooms, this home has two livings rooms, a large entertainment room and both a formal and informal dining room. For those who value security, the home is secured (enclosed) with a 12′ concrete privacy wall in the back courtyard and nicely constructed 12′ iron fenced wall in the front. With s an updated security system and ts no less than 7 guard stations (24/7) in the neighborhood, you can feel comfortable that your investment is secure and safe.
Along with modern construction, there are also possibilities of finding colonial era properties that can be restored, as well as undeveloped lots that can be customized or retained as investments as property prices continue to rise. Exploring the real estate market helps both the investor and the expat find the perfect location to fulfill their tropical dreams.
Casey
Is Cuenca Worth It? YES!!
For investors, retirees on fixed incomes, and expats seeking a new start, the big question is whether the cost of living in Cuenca will translate into a value added scenario. The answer is an unqualified YES!!
With rental prices averaging between $300-$1500 per month (depending on location, size, amenities, etc.), and basic utilities costing less than $100 per month, life in Cuenca is definitely affordable. When compared to all that Cuenca has to offer, the value (both intrinsic and actual) returned on investment far exceeds that of most U.S. cities of comparable size.
The cultural richness, moderate climate, vibrant entertainment and educational venues, and the serenity of the highlands lifestyle make the idea of investing or living here an almost irresistible proposition. Visiting this Ecuadorian gem is the best way to learn whether the Cuenca “big picture” features you in a starring role.
When it comes to travel and exploration, they say that getting there is half the fun. And for expats in the Latin tropics who are just learning how to discover and explore their new surroundings, that statement can be entirely true.
However, for those who have unrealistic expectations about how to get around in Latin America, getting there–anywhere!– can also be a nightmare.
So, if you’re a potential expat who’s planning a trip down to scout out possible cities to call home, or even if you’ve already made the move and just want some pointers for navigating the region more efficiently, this guide will give you all the ins and outs on Latin American transportation.
photo by StelaDi via pixabay
Getting There
The first step for travel to Latin America involves the international flight from the U.S. The region is serviced by most all of the major airlines (i.e. Delta, United, American Airlines, etc.) via places like Miami, Houston, New York, and several others.
In terms of destination cities, there’s at least one international airport in each country we cover. Most have 3 or 4, like Panama and Nicaragua respectively. Mexico has literally hundreds.
In general, the airports are located in or near the bigger cities and more popular tourist locales. So, hopefully once you’re on the ground you won’t have too far to go to reach your final destination. If that’s not the case, or if you’re already here and just wanting more information on travel throughout the region, read on.
Getting Around Once You Get There
Once you’re on the ground in the Latin tropics, there are a whole bunch of options for how to get from one place to another. Some are safer and/or more economical than others. A few might be best reserved for the more adventurous, but may provide one heck of an unforgettable travel experience. Here’s the scoop on all of them.
Flights
Having a number of international airports throughout the region makes flying from one destination to another a viable option. Say for instance you live in San Jose, Costa Rica, and wanted to spend a long weekend in Bocas del Toro, Panama. Flying might be your best option, as there’s an international airport on Isla Colon.
There are several regional airlines that service the area, mostly notably El Salvador-based TACA. Prices vary, but flights are generally quite reasonable when you consider the huge convenience they represent.
You can book online and expect pretty professional and reliable service. You can also expect generally one [often unpaved] runway. And there may or may not be animals grazing next to it.
Buses
Latin America is awfully compact so, while flights are a great alternative, ground travel is in many cases the better option. And buses are often a popular choice for expats on the move. While you can’t make reservations online, you can search for nearby terminals and at least plan your route out before you go.
Because buses must often deal with rough terrain, and often even rougher road conditions (more to come on that), travel times can be long. But the cost savings may be worth it. For example you can take an 8 hour bus ride from Panama City to David for $15 vs. an $85 one-way plane ticket between those same cities.
Buses also offer the added benefit of allowing you to take in the countryside plus some local flavor in the form of your fellow passengers. For example, in Guatemala, you can catch a ride on a “chicken bus.” These converted school buses shuttle people and, at times, chickens from place to place.
If poultry isn’t your idea of an ideal seatmate, there are also first-class Greyhound buses for only slightly more moula. It’s also worth noting that when traveling from one country to another by bus, you’ll likely need to change buses at the border and board one operated by the country you’re entering.
photo by rock_rock via pixabay
Rental Cars
The same problem of crossing borders applies to rental cars, as most agencies won’t let you take your rented auto across international borders. So keep that in mind if you want to travel by car and don’t own one yourself.
If you’re only traveling within one country, then they’re a great option. Budget Rent A Car operates in Latin America and is usually based out of the airports. You can book online and often save money (and make sure you get exactly what you want) by reserving a car in advance.
Much of Latin America is well connected with reliable internet service. As a result, you can use sites like Google maps or apps like Waze to find your way around. In fact, Google maps will soon be available for use offline, making it even easier to get around in remote areas. Some countries, like Costa Rica, also offer their own map apps.
Printed maps are harder to find and not always the most accurate. Just be aware that some places, like Panama, now impose fines as high as $300 for drivers caught using an electronic device while operating a vehicle.
Taxis
Taxi cabs can be a great option for across-town travel, where you can get a lift for only a few bucks. But they can get pricy really quickly if you’re going much further than that.
So if you’re looking at an hour long ride from the airport to your destination, you might want to opt for a bus. Regardless of which you choose, though, make sure you discuss the price before you climb in. And keep in mind that everything’s negotiable.
Once inside the cab, pay attention to where you’re going. Have an idea of what your route should look like, and make sure your driver isn’t taking any unnecessary detours to jack up the price.
Your Own Two Feet
Many of the coastal towns and colonial cities you’ll visit in Latin America are very walkable and, as a result, many expats find they don’t need to own a car. Knowing that you won’t need a vehicle once you get where you’re going can give you added peace of mind when taking buses or vans to get from one place to the next.
Do use care when crossing the street, as the locals don’t always yield to pedestrians. Bikes are another great option and are common in places like the island of Caye Caulker, Belize, where golf carts are the only motorized vehicles allowed.
It’s also worth mentioning that hitchhiking in Latin America can be very dangerous and is not recommended. Travel is extremely reasonable throughout the area, so it’s difficult to justify taking such a risk. That being said, if you do it, use extreme caution.
photo by Unsplash via pixabay
Getting There in One Piece
When traveling in developing countries, it’s important to remember that things are going to be a lot different than in a first world nation. Safety is key, and there are several issues you should be aware of when traveling throughout the Latin tropics.
Road Conditions
The conditions of the roads in Latin America can vary drastically from one city (or rural area) to the next. You can expect to deal with everything from potholes to landslides to dirt roads that turn into giant mudholes during the rainy season.
Potholes are a fact of life, and they rarely get filled. When they do it’s often by a local resident with a bag of sand who’s ticked off that he just busted a tire on the same stretch of road for the fourth time.
Fellow Drivers
Perhaps the biggest hazard to ground travel in the Latin tropics is the large number of maniacs with which you’ll have to share the road. People speed. They ignore stop signs. They weave in and out of traffic and pass on the wrong side of the road. While going around a curve.
They’re also often distracted, hence the need for the aforementioned law concerning electronic devices. There are a lot of accidents, often tragic, involving distracted driving.
Folks in Latin America are also often less than considerate about things like blocking you from getting out of a parking space and dinging your door when they park next to you in the tiny parking spaces that are often seen in the region.
They may also fail to keep their cars in good repair, so a lack of turn signals or working brake lights is a common sight. Not to worry, though. Their horns usually work, and they do not hesitate to put them to good use.
Crime
While the rate of violent crime is low throughout much of Latin America, it’s not zero. Not to mention, the incidence of petty theft is high. The best advice when traveling, particularly via public transportation, is to use common sense. Don’t travel with a lot of valuables or flash large quantities of cash.
Buses are unfortunately a common target for robbers, so try to avoid traveling at night or alone. Always use care when walking or driving a rental or your own auto. Stay out of poorly lit areas or places that look sketchy. Busy thoroughfares or more heavily touristed areas are best.
Get There As Soon As Possible
Now that you’re equipped with everything you need to know about getting around in Latin America, you no longer have an excuse to avoid visiting the area for the first time or branching out from your expat comfort zone and seeing all the fantastic things the region has to offer.
What are you waiting for? Start researching where you want to go. Or just throw a dart at a map. The tropics await you.
When Tulum, Mexico is mentioned, the first images are often of impressive Mayan ruins, stunning beaches, and the vibrant party scene of nearby Riviera Maya. However, the best of Tulum encompasses much more, which is why investors and other expats are flocking to this Yucatan destination.
Well known as a popular tourist destination, this small seaside town is rapidly become a growth center for those looking to find alternatives to the more populated, tourist-centric locations nearby. With property prices still quite affordable, finding options in this beach town (yes, Tulum is a beach community) may be as easy as a click of a mouse.
Megan
How To Discover The Best Of Tulum For Yourself
The Tulum area has steadily been gaining attention as an up and coming expat destination. Publications like USA Today have called it “the fastest growing town in Latin America”; similarly, the Wall Street Journal recently noted that the area has become “the hottest section of Mexico.”
Knowing where and how to look for those gems that are the best of Tulum involves being open to new experiences and adventures. Below are some pointers that can make your search more successful and enjoyable.
Learn About The Geography And Climate
Located just 45 minutes south of Playa del Carmern, Tulum sits on Mexico’s Caribbean coast and is part of what has been called, “Mexico’s Rivera.” One of the oldest towns in Mexico, Tulum itself can actually be divided into three separate districts.
Tulum Pueblo
The pueblo is the actual town and is where the greater majority of supermarkets, retail stores, the bus stations, smaller hotels, hostels and inns are located. The town reflects the more of the local atmosphere than some of the more modern and developed areas nearby. This rustic vibe may be preferable for those seeking to find a quieter, less “touristy” place to live.
Tulum Playa
Though known primarily for its archeological treasures, Tulum is very much a beach town as well. Tulum Playa is bordered by the Sian Ka’an Biosphere (an ecological reserve) and white sand beaches to the east, as well as a wetlands and mango reserve to the south.
Not surprisingly this dynamic combination of natural beauty and pristine beaches has been a key factor in the growth of Tulum Playa as a preferred location for the development of new residential properties, higher-end resorts, and spas. Boutique properties dedicated to ecology are also a growing commodity here.
Tulum Ruinas
The Mayan ruins, some of the best preserved in Mexico, are unique due to their seaside location. In addition to the main set of ruins, there are twenty-three additional sites in the the Sian Ka’an Biosphere. While there are fewer residential options here (for obvious reasons), the close proximity of these symbols of a bygone era and culture are a powerful drawing card for foreigners who want to live close to history.
Learn About The Climate In Tulum
Tulum is an up-and-coming area. One of the major reasons is the climate, which is ideal for those whose love of the beach is irresistible.
The warm, tropical temperatures of the Gulf of Mexico, a dry season that matches perfectly with winter in the US, and a large expat presence make this the prime area for anyone wanting to live by the sea.
Learn The Easiest Ways To Get There
One aspect that belongs in any list of the best of Tulum is how accessible the village is from the US. The number of regularly scheduled flights into the international airport in Cancun leaves adventurers with only a ninety minute drive to Tulum.
Whether you choose to do the driving yourself or use one of the many buses, shuttles and taxis, the transfer from airport to Tulum is uncomplicated. Local taxis or shared vans, known as collectives, can help visitors get to and from their lodging to the beach area, the pueblo proper, and the ruins.
Wikipedia
The Investment Potential Is Definitely Part Of The Best Of Tulum
Unlike nearby locations such as Cancun and Playa del Carmen, Tulum is still largely undeveloped. As such, being able to purchase lots for investment projects becomes much more affordable and can bring a higher return on cash outlay.
The Mexican Trust has made it possible for foreigners to own property within the 30 mile coastal zone. Having beach access is another value-added feature of buying in Tulum.
There are a number of projects that are in various stages of completion that could provide rental income as well as an ultimate retirement palace. Tulum 20-12, Eden Zama, and Zama Village are examples of these developments that offer modern condo living, with state-of-the-art amenities, and the desirability of the Rivera Maya location.
There are half-acre beachfront lots located on the other side of Peninsulafor as little as $79,000. There are also plenty of other opportunities in this fast moving market that be may the perfect choice for your expat investment plans.
Gianni Maestri
Become Part Of The Best Of Tulum
With all the positives that Tulum offers, there is one remaining element that should be added to the best of Tulum-YOU!! Make plans to visit this ancient Mayan location and learn, firsthand, how moving here can be a great way to build for the future, while investing in the present.
Boca Chica, Panama is the tropical island that can truly be said to be the stuff of dreams. The special combination of a secluded setting that is still less than an hour a away from the major city of David promises to be a key factor in the rapid expansion of an expat population seeking new adventures and opportunities for reinvention.
Island living is not wihtout its challenges but the rewards of having a unique lifestyle that has been the stuff of dreams far outweighs any adjustments that may be required.
While not as well known as other Pacific locations in Latin America, Boca Chica may be the best bargain of all. The growing number of available properties-from lots ready to be developed to high end condos-bear witness to the desirability of this ocean side community.
Panama Travel
Island Living In Boca Chica-A Reality Check
Island living has a lot of pluses to commend it as a lifestyle change. There are also some challenges that prospective “Robinson Crusoes” should keep in mind as part of the decision process.
Seclusion Can Be Both A Plus And A Minus
One of the most compelling features about Boca Chica is its remoteness from the rush of larger metropolitan areas such as Panama City. This can be both a positive and a negative feature.
While having a quieter, more laid back atmosphere is a benefit for many expats, the inability to easily purchase items such as computers, electronics (phones, tablets, etc), and vehicles can take some adjustment. You have to decide whether having ready access to these stores is more important than the tranquility of a secluded beach village.
Fortunately, the city of David is just a short diatance away and has plenty of shopping options that can meet most daily needs. For some speciality items, however, a trip to Panama City may be required.
The Infrastructure Is Undergoing Growing Pains
With a single road leading into Boca Chica from the Pan American Highway, it should come as no surprise that the infrastructure of the area is still in a development stage. Again, this may prove to be problematic for expats who want all the comforts of home when they first arrive.
Even in paradise, growing pains are a necessary evil when a location, like Boca Chica, is developing as rapidly as it is. The long term outlook, however is that of increased value and accessibility that make investing now a great option.
Happily, the continual increase in expats and investors is also having a positive effect on upgrading the infrastructure in Boca Chica to be able to handle the needs of an increasing population.
Increased Access And Investment Potential
With the opening of the new international airport in David, getting to and from Boca Chica becomes much easier than one might have expected even five years ago. Another plus is that, unlike other popular island destinations – for example, Roatan (which requires a 90 minute ferry ride to the mainland) – getting to nearby locations is simply a matter of a quick boat ride to the mainland to connect to other places.
This also is reflected in investment potential. Boca Chica is still largely undeveloped and not as well known as other islands in Latin America. With prices still extremely low, getting in at the start of the anticipated investment growth will cost less and, arguably, could result in much higher returns on investment.
Viva Tropical
The Real Estate Market In Boca Chica Continues To Grow
The recent attention given to the archipelago of the Gulf of Chiriqui in general, and Boca Chica in particular, has led to greater number of options for relocation and/or investment. Some of the examples of properties available in Boca Chica are listed below. The price points are still reasonable but can be expected to increase as demand increases for these beachfront locations.
Entire 11 Acre Island in Panama
If owning your own island and molding it into your own particular concept appeals to you, the island of Isla Iglesia Mayor is the answer to your search. Located just a short fifteen minute boat ride off the coast of Boca Chica mainland, this largely undeveloped island parcel is in its natural state with a wide variety of flora and fauna present.
Reminiscent of deserted tropical islands of literary farm, the potential for private or personal development is limited only by the imagination of the new owner. Priced at $1,500,000, the possibility for a strong return on the initial investment expenditure is quite good. Panama’s favorable tax structure and aggressive approach to attracting foreign dollars are further incentives to consider buying at this time.
2 Bed with Pool, Dock, Solar, Everything
This modern eco-friendly house sits on a ½ acre, ocean front lot, on Boca Chica Island. The solar powered electrical system is not only convenient but also budget friendly. Using solar power is also good for the environment and helps create a special kind of connection with the natural surroundings of the 400 acre private island where the lot is located.
This 2 bedroom 1 bath home also comes with a private dock, swimming pool and outdoor shower. With 100 feet of ocean frontage, it is difficult to imagine many homes with these benefits being offered for only $199,000.
Viva Tropical
The Total Package: Beachfront, Elegance, Amenities, Nature, and Adventure
For potential buyers looking for a high-end turn-key property with Spanish Colonial flair, oceanfront views, and top-shelf finishes throughout the house, this 4600 sq. foot home checks all the boxes. Situated on a 30,000 square foot lot, this 4 bedroom, 5 bathroom well appointed home also has a separate maid’s quarters with a separate bathroom.
Quality cabinetry, custom window treatments, a spacious upper balcony, and premium kitchen appliances (just to name a few of features) speak volumes about the quality of workmanship that when into the construction of this dwelling.
Located in Rincon Beach Estates, which is part of one of the premier gated communities in Panama, the Boca Chica Plantation and Club, residents have access to many special amenities such as an equestrian center, boat ramp and storage and even a helipad. The $799,000 asking price almost seems small when measured against all the extras that this stunning property has going for it.
The growth curve for Boca Chica is only expected to increase in the next few years. This is good time look at the properties currently on the market to find your place in the tropical sun.
Island Living Can Be A Life Changing Experience
For those who seek the adventure of moving abroad and finding paradise on a tropical island, Boca Chica is closer than you think. Deciding to become part of island life is a profound experience not to be undertaken lightly. A great way to find out if this choice is for you to go there, put your feet in the sand, and discover your connection to this tropical haven.
The quiet fishing village of San Juan del Sur, Nicaragua was little known outside of the country prior to the Gold Rush era of the middle nineteenth century. Cornelius Vanderbilt used the village as part of his transportation system to help prospectors reach the gold fields of California.
Today, over a century later, a new breed of “prospector” is once again making the trek to the shores of the Pacific coast of Nicaragua. Instead of gold, however, these new adventures come to challenge the ocean on surfboards, become one with the natural eco-system of the area, and immerse themselves in the less frantic pace of living that Nicaragua is becoming known for.
Growth has been rapid in recent years, but as a result the window of opportunity to find your own “gold mine” in this tropical haven could be closing fast.
Inga
San Juan del Sur Is Truly Special
It isn’t often that one can find a unique combination of 19th structures and world class surfing that is meshed with an eco-friendly community. This, however, is precisely what can be found in San Juan del Sur.
A Step Back In Time
The first influx of foreigners to San Juan del Sur came in the 1880s when the Central and South American Telegraph Company brought in personnel to lay submarine cables. The cobblestone streets, laid out in a classic grid pattern, contain some of the best examples of 19th Victorian architecture in Latin America. Walking those streets one is transported to an earlier time.
The Spanish colonial influence is well represented by the impressive statue of Christ of the Mercy. Overlooking the village from a nearby hill, this imposing sculpture stands 82 feet tall. When measured from its base, the total height is actually 440 feet above the Pacific Ocean, making it one of the tallest of its kind in the world.
The Iglesia San Juan Bautista is another popular location that demonstrates the beauty of colonial era religious buildings. Located in the center of the village, this iconic church serves as a reminder of the rich cultural heritage that grew out of the Spanish influence in Latin America.
The Bounty Of The Sea
San Juan del Sur has a rich tradition of fishing. Today’s adventurers can enjoy fresh caught seafood at one of the many restaurants in town. For those who are drawn by the “lure” of the sea, fishing charters are available at the small, but picturesque harbor.
Another ocean based activity that has drawn extreme sports enthusiasts from all over is surfing. Rapidly becoming known for its challenging breaks and 300+ days of offshore winds per year, San Juan del Sur has become a major surfing hotspot.
With smaller crowds than Costa Rica, wave riders have plenty of run to test their skills. The most popular beach, Playa Maderas, just a short distance from San Juan del Sur, has great waves for all surfing levels from novice to expert.
Natural Beauty And Natural Healing
There is a growing number of alternative healing retreats and yoga centers springing up in the village. A nice counterpoint to natural therapies is the nearby access to the Refugio de Vida Silvestre La Flor.
This reserve is managed by the Fundación Cocibolca and features over 30,000 female Olive Ridley turtles that come the area to nest and give birth. New pro-environmental legislation and commitment by the Nicaraguan government is dedicated to increasing protection of these special sea creatures.
JGL Songs
Now Is Definitely The Time To Consider San Juan del Sur As A Place to Invest
One of the major signs that an area is has great potential for investment is the growth of its tourist trade. The last several years have seen a steady upswing in the number of foreigners who have discovered this Pacific paradise.
In response to this increasing influx, developments and residential projects are also expanding. One great example is a 6.25 acre parcel of prime beachfront property that already has 60 permit-ready condominium units and could certainly be expanded, renovated and modified to meet the requirements of your particular vision. The inital investment price of $1,200,000 can be expected to generate a strong return on investment as the indivdual units are sold to other adventurers seeking a fresh start in Latin America.
With many attractive accommodations already on site, a beach area within a sort walking distance, an harbor access, the money making potential of the property is quite high. It is also an ideal spot to offer an eco-friendly or more rustic, back-to-basics kind of living experience.
All that is required is the vision to begin the transformation. There are many similar real estate opportunities throughout Nicaragua that are definitely worth exploring.
Getting There Is Easier Than Ever
Regularly scheduled flights into Managua’s Augusto Sandino International Airport (Central America’s fifth busiest) will help adventurers connect to local bus service to arrive in San Juan del Sur in roughly two hours. Another option that many might not be aware of is to fly into San Jose, Costa Rica, and take the new shuttle service to your Nicaraguan destination.
Paul and Holly Ragan
A Best Kept Secret About To Be Exposed
With all the buzz that San Juan del Sur is generating by word of mouth from those have visited, chosen to relocate, or invest in the area, the window to getting in on a wonderful ground floor opportunity may not stay open much longer. If exploring the possibilities for living and investment in a beach side community that hasn’t become over commercialized appeals to you, now is the time to act. If you don’t check out San Juan del Sur now, you may really regret it later on.
What’s your pick for the best place to live and invest in the Latin Tropics? And what makes that location stand head and shoulders above the rest, in your opinion?
Is it the breathtaking scenery? One could argue that’s a common denominator among a lot of places down here. What about the quality of life? Is there one place that complements your ideal lifestyle better than any other?
What about other factors? Things like cost of living, investment potential, and accessibility. Those characteristics may be important to one person, but have absolutely no bearing on another individual’s decision-making process.
Mohamed Iujaz Zuhair
We’re Listing the Top 50 Places to Live and Invest. And We Need Your Help.
So, what’s the magic formula for determining the best destination in the Latin Tropics? Or is there one? That’s what we’re trying to find out as we undertake a massive project to research, rank, and relay the Top 50 Places to Live and Invest in the Latin Tropics.
Here at VivaTropical we’re asked all the time, by would-be expats and investors, where they can find their perfect paradise in Latin America. But even among those who inquire about moving down, their priorities are often all over the board.
Some want to know where they can score a rock bottom deal on tropical real estate. Others want to find property for sale in a place that already has all of the amenities they’ve grown so accustomed to in North America.
Still more want our opinion on up-and-coming tropical destinations where they could find success starting an expat business or developing rental property. Nobody seems to be looking for the same thing.
You Know What They Say About Opinions…
Not only do our real estate inquiries run the gamut from one extreme to another, so do people’s reactions to the things we have to say about the various cities in the countries we cover.
For every article we’ve written citing the amazing atmosphere and surfing conditions in this or that beach town, there are readers who comment about a terrible experience they had there or about how miserably hot it was.
The same is true for other types of destination. A place we think is a great up-and-coming real estate opportunity may be deemed by some as being in the middle of nowhere. And the vibrant cities we describe may remind some expats of the very same exhausting hustle and bustle that prompted them to leave their North American home.
And the thing is…they’re all exactly right!
Nick H.
The Truth About the Best Place to Live in the Latin Tropics
So with so many diverse needs and opinions among would-be expats and investors, how is it possible to say which tropical destination carries the most promise and potential?
We’ll answer that in two parts.
First of all, there is absolutely no perfect place on earth that is right for everyone. It just isn’t realistic. One man’s paradise might be another’s idea of hell on earth. And just because people are flocking to a certain popular destination in droves, that doesn’t mean the priorities of one specific couple or family will necessarily align with the rest of that community.
In short, the decision of where to live, relocate your family, or do business in the Latin Tropics is incredibly subjective. Don’t believe anyone who tells you differently.
The second part of our answer to this question is that, while no place is going to be right for EVERYONE, there are a number of places that will naturally appeal to a LARGE MAJORITY of like-minded folks. Those are the places we want to include on our list.
CW Goodroe
You Probably Have an Opinion of Your Own
And, with that in mind, we’d like your help. Maybe you’re a fellow expat who considered multiple destinations in Latin America before settling on your perfect piece of real estate. Or perhaps you’ve traveled extensively in the region and already have your heart set on the place you’d like to retire when the time comes.
Better yet, maybe you’re someone who had to try out several tropical countries or cities before you finally found the one that was right for you. Whatever your situation, we could think of no better way to kick off our research on the Top 50 Places to Live and Invest in the Latin Tropics than to ask you, our readers.
Now It’s Your Turn
Sure we have some criteria of our own in mind, on which we’ll be relying heavily as we compile our list. (And we can assure you it won’t be based on a single characteristic alone, but rather a collective consideration of many factors such as quality of life, investment potential, infrastructure, and more.)
But we still want to hear from you.
Which place(s) do you think deserve a place on our list and why? We welcome your input as we begin to explore the cities of the Latin Tropics from Mexico all the way to Ecuador. So please take a minute and answer our 5 question survey below. And be sure to check back soon to see if your favorite city made our list! Create your own user feedback survey