With the right blend of amenities, a commitment to a sustainable lifestyle, natural beauty, and a great atmosphere, deciding to invest in Nosara can be one of the best decisions an expat or investor can make. This unique village in the southern Nicoya Peninsula of Costa Rica is the perfect destination for nature lovers, yoga and fitness buffs, surfers and, most importantly, families seeking to find a place to thrive in a vibrant culture far different than the frenetic pace of life in the U.S.
Pat Cranson
With the start of the “American Project” in 1971, Nosara has become the gold standard for responsible planning and community development throughout Latin America. Combining balanced residential growth while maintaining the natural beauty of the surrounding tropical environment is a key factor in Nosara’s desirability as a place to invest and live. The types of properties available reflect the best qualities of this village and the surrounding area.
Viva Tropical
The 7 Signs Why Now Is the Time to Invest in Nosara
As Nosara continues to grow in popularity, the number of expats considering this location in the Nicoya Peninsula is also increasing. Below are seven signs as to why choosing to invest in Nosara now has such great potential for a positive return on investment.
A Wide Selection of Properties To Choose From
Nosara has a variety of properties that can be used as investment vehicles. Below are some samples:
- Condominiums in Diamonds Point. These two-bedroom, two-bath units, being offered for $129,000, are ideal for a vacation getaway or providing rental income over the long term. Located in Guiones, a short drive from the center of Nosara, these units come with a large living area, patios, and fully-equipped kitchens. The development also has onsite laundry service, a common swimming pool, and security.
- Playa Guiones Building Lot. The opportunity to design and build your own tropical escape can certainly be realized by owning a ready-to-build lot within walking distance of the beach, shops, and restaurants. For investment purposes, buying now and holding onto the land as the total inventory dwindles is a great way to maximize the return on the purchase price of $149,000.
- Beach Front Nosara Condos. Located at Villas Las Palmas, there are units available on both the upper and main floors. Located a mere 100 yards from Playa Pelada, the closeness to the beach enhances the desirability of these two-bedroom, two-bath residences as an investment property with great rental value, as well as a perfect second or vacation home. Equipped with en-suite bathrooms, new modern appliances, and high quality fixtures and furnishings, these attractive garden units can become the tropical hideaway of your dreams and all for $189,900.
- High End Ocean View Home. Also located in Playa Guiones, this property is located in one of the more prestigious sections of the development. Though secluded and private, the huge yard and outdoor space are perfect for viewing those tropical sunsets. With high-end features usually found only in multi-million dollar villas, this $890,000 two-bedroom, two-and-a-half-bath home can command a high rental price and can be your retirement palace later on.
With properties that can suit every taste, from lots to villas, perusing the available selections demonstrates why Nosara is definitely a place to invest and live in.
Pat Cranson
The Quality of Life Is Better Than Other Areas
Nosara has remained focused on responsible planning that can permit growth while maintaining the natural beauty of the land. The 170-acre permanent Green Zone, that is part of the “American Project” is a testament to the community’s desire to balance the interest of people with the interests of the environment. The Nosara Civic Association, which oversees the area, was established to ensure that the unsullied beauty that makes Nosara so attractive can remain without the threat of over-development.
One of the benefits of this approach is that Nosara has the cleanest water table in Costa Rica as well as the cleanest ocean water. Thanks to aggressive zoning, the beach is not obscured by high-rise structures and remains a pristine place where nature can be experienced as part of daily life as well as adding to the value of property in the area.
A More Vibrant, Healthy Approach to Living
With the all of the emphasis on a sustainable lifestyle, it is no surprise that it is easier to live “healthy” in Nosara than in many other tropical locations. Organic grocery stores, raw food cafes, and green initiatives such as recycling, beach clean ups, and tree plantings, add an important intrinsic value to daily life.
Alternative medicine practitioners, yoga retreats, and meditation centers provide holistic options to dealing with health issues. For more traditional medical treatments, Nosara has English speaking doctors, dentists, and a pharmacy. Regardless of which treatment approach is preferred, finding it in Nosara is an easy proposition.
Bryan Thatcher
A Great Place for Families
Unlike so many beach towns in the region, Nosara does not have the frenetic party atmosphere that is the hallmark of many ocean-side destinations. The availability of modern amenities, the presence of two bilingual schools and a neighborhood-type vibe are just some of the reasons why there are an increasing number of families relocating there and calling Nosara home.
Lots of Outdoor Activities Right at Your Doorstep
Another important reason why now is a great time to invest in Nosara is the wide variety of outdoor activities that can be enjoyed literally steps away from your residence. Nosara is known as one of the best surf locations in Costa Rica; the number of surf camps and schools make it an ideal destination for the novice or the hard core wave rider.
Tennis, stand-up paddle-boarding, and hiking through the nearby wildlife reserves are other options to become one with the natural beauty of the area. Even a quiet walk on the beach at sunset is a reminder of how valuable the serenity and peacefulness of this beach village truly is.
Chris Goldberg
Nosara Is There for the Long Term
Nosara has an established expat community that has resulted in a large number of English speakers – both expat and local. From an investment standpoint, being able to offer a scenario where daily transactions can be handled without learning Spanish or finding a translator can be a strong value-added element.
Perhaps no sign as to why you should invest in Nosara is more important than its permanence. Unlike many tropical destinations that are heavily dependent on the tourist trade to survive, Nosara is an established community whose plan for growth is well controlled in order to meet the needs of residents both now and in the future.
Ultimately, the best way to experience all that Nosara offers, whether for a potential expat relocation or future investment, is to visit this unique community in the Nicoya Peninsula first hand. There is no substitute for actually being there, and now is certainly a good time to explore those Nosara possibilities for yourself.
Roatan, Honduras has been a popular destination for quite some time for expats seeking to find that special place in the sun. With an ever-increasing number of cruise lines making this tropical island a port of call, as well as an increasing growth in the number of resorts, investing in this Caribbean gem promises a modern day version of “buried treasure” for those willing to make the journey.
Mark Willobough
The real estate market in Roatan remains quite reasonable, even with demand for residential space increasing. The 2008 worldwide collapse impacted prices, which have been slow to recover.
7 Facts That Expats Want to Share About Roatan
There are many factors that go into picking one tropical location to live or invest in over another. Here are seven facts that expats have discovered which make Roatan a worthy option place to consider.
Getting There Is Easy
One of the most attractive features about Roatan is its accessibility. In addition to the large number of international cruise lines that make regular stops at Coxen Hole and Mahogany Bay part of their cruise itineraries, there are many regularly scheduled international flights from the U.S.
Living There Is Easier
Roatan is a destination that is made for expat living. The word “hurry” has no use; life is run on island time. In a real sense, Roatan is a prime example of an ancient observation: We do without doing and it all gets done.
Residency Is Easier Still
Obtaining a retiree residency on Roatan is very straightforward. All that’s required is showing that you receive income of at least $1,500 per month from a source outside of Honduras (such as a pension or Social Security) in order to qualify.
Size Does Matter – in All the Right Ways
Foreigners can actually own up to ¾ of an acre of land in their own name in Roatan. For larger parcels (such as those being purchased with an eye to development), setting up a Honduran corporation to hold the title, with the foreigner as administrator (and having all rights of Honduran citizenship), is a simple matter.
Wild or Mild – the Choice Is Yours
Roatan offers both the lively atmosphere of a tourist-driven community and a quiet Caribbean retreat. The West End Village, close to the Juan Manuel Gálvez International Airport, is the prime spot for nightlife, good restaurants, and a large number of resort properties. The eastern part of the island, known as Helene, is a nature lover’s dream and a perfect spot for those seeking to commune with nature in a more serene environment.
Separate but Connected
Although Roatan is an island, it is still connected to the outside world. Modern amenities such as high-speed internet, cable, and cellular services make keeping in touch with friends and family an easy task. With a number of ambitious public works projects, residents on Roatan can expect that the infrastructure will only continue to improve.
Katarina
A Real Potential for Finding Your Own Pot of Real Estate Gold
There is a wide variety of properties on Roatan that will appeal to the expat looking for a secluded tropical oasis, the retiree eager to start a new adventure, and even the innovator looking for investment potential. Below are some great examples of hidden gems that are waiting for you discover them.
One+ Acre Lot with Ocean Views If you’ve ever dreamed of building your own island escape, this 1.08 acre oceanfront property may be just what you are looking for. With water and electricity already on site, the location is ready for you to make your dreams into a reality. At $275,000, the potential of this lot is boundless; with enough space for a residence and garden, becoming a modern day “Robinson Crusoe” might be easier than you think.
Charming Lodge with Income Potential If the idea of owning and running your own lodge in a tropical paradise is the kind of challenge you are looking for, the Mariposa Lodge is a business opportunity that shouldn’t be missed. With seven individual suites, divided between three separate buildings and 20 acres of well-maintained grounds, the potential of a strong return on your investment of $450,000 is quite high.
An additional feature is the fact that financing is available, an option that is rare in the tropics. For twenty percent down, an intrepid entrepreneur can take five additional years to pay off the balance.
Luxury 3BD/4BA Condo in Lawson Rock For those seeking a modern condo lifestyle, with high-end furnishings surrounded by Roatan’s beauty, this $755,000, 3-bedroom, 4-bath jewel has everything that a discriminating buyer could want. Located in the exclusive Lawson Rock community, this unit has all the amenities one would expect to find in a quality residence.
The addition of a rooftop pool adds a dash of luxury that only enhances the tropical vibe of this island mecca. The large outdoor space makes this a perfect place for gatherings, celebrations, or just enjoying the laid-back living of Roatan.
Topridge Estates Lot in Sandy Bay It isn’t necessary to be rich to be able to afford your island dream. This lot at Top Ridge Estates, close to the West End, has electrical, water, and road access and comes in at a surprising price of $69,000.
With market prices still low, finding the ideal island getaway has never been easier. From lots waiting to be developed to luxury turnkey homes, the large inventory has something for everyone.
One Last Thing You Need to Know About Roatan
Perhaps the most important thing that you need to know if you are considering Roatan as an expat destination is that the best way to discover its potential is to visit it firsthand. Plan a trip and allow yourself to be seduced by the warmth of the Caribbean breezes, the relaxed pace of living, and the sense that this is a special place that could be your next port of call.
Did you know there are dozens and dozens of great resources on Ecuador for expats and investors? We gave you an extensive list on Costa Rica and Panama so let’s do that again with Ecuador!
Sure we have a ton of resources for Ecuador here on our site, and a whole bunch of Ecuador property for sale, but that doesn’t mean that there aren’t other really good ones out there!
Check out our list of the top Ecuador websites! c
Dan Lipinski
Blogs About the Ecuador Lifestyle
Most of these Ecuador blogs are written by expats. From them, you’ll get a great perspective about life in Ecuador.
You’ll notice you get a bit of a different viewpoint from each blogger, which is great.
Use them to find out if Ecuador is the right fit for you!
- South of Zero – This blog is all about making the move to Ecuador, what you need to know, and a few things you had no idea you needed to know.
- Day in Quito – All about expat life in Quito.
- Pro Ecuador – An insider’s guide to moving to Ecuador.
- Living and Retiring in Ecuador – In June of 2010 these bloggers sold off everything and moved to Cuenca, Ecuador with only four suitcases.
- Baños Ecuador – All about Baños in one spot!
- Life in Ecuador – Tips for having a long-term or short term-life in Ecuador.
- Cuenca High Life – This is really a must-visit blog for those interested in life in Cuenca, Ecuador.
- Conquistador in Ecuador – How to make your move to Ecuador.
- Ecuador George – Interesting information for those making the move to Cuenca.
- The Ecuador Gringo – Life in Ecuador from the perspective of a dude who’s been traveling for 11 years.
- Nancy and Chuck Retire in Ecuador – They went to visit Ecuador, fell in love with Cuenca, and decided to relocate there.
- Cuenca Perspectives by Jim – Follow Jim and learn why he chose to settle in Cuenca.
- Gerry Goes to Ecuador – A retired orchestra teacher and cellist who wants to move to Ecuador full time.
- EcuaAssist – Moving to Ecuador? What you need to know.
- Destination Ecuador – A family perspective of moving to and living in Ecuador.
- Discover Quito Ecuador – They live in Cuenca, but love Quito and want you to as well.
- Cuenca Residency – All about Cuenca, Ecuador for those considering a move to the Andes.
- Cotacachi Living – Get the native expat perspective on what life is like in the Ecuadorian Andes town of Cotacachi.
- My Quito – A visitor’s guide to Ecuador – travel, tourism, and accommodations.
- Your Escape to Ecuador – Those looking for information on making the transition to life in Ecuador.
- Living in Ecuador – Resources for those wanting to make the move to Ecuador, including real estate offerings.
- Ecuador Explorer – The 411 on all things Ecuador, a great resource for those unfamiliar with Ecuador’s offerings.
- Pro-Ecuador – An insider’s guide to living in Ecuador.
- Ecuador Expat Bloggers – This site keeps track of all Ecuador bloggers who are writing about Ecuador.
Lorie
Ecuador Real Estate Websites
Yeah, real estate is our main focus at Viva Tropical. But that doesn’t mean that there aren’t tons of other great Ecuador real estate companies. Below are some of our top picks.
- Ecuador Estates – Properties in Salinas as well as real estate tours.
- Ecuador Property Shelf – Partnership with Ecuador’s top real estate agents to access Ecuador’s top properties.
- Cuenca Properties – Showcases only properties found in Cuenca’s historic center.
- Cuenca Real Estate – Might be the top, one-stop shop for real estate offers in Cuenca.
- Cuenca’s Best Properties – Offering concierge-style real estate services for those looking to rent, lease, or buy in Cuenca.
- Chantal Realty Ecuador – Featuring properties in Cotacachi, Otavalo, and throughout Ecuador.
- Ecuador Home Sales – Specializes in houses, apartments, condominiums, beachfront property, business opportunities, and development projects.
- Abundant Living Ecuador – Abundant Living Ecuador offers a full service real estate and relocation experience.
- Ecuador Beachfront Property – Provides listings from Crucita and most of the Ecuadorian coastal region.
- Real Estate Ecuador – Ecuador Real Estate.
- Ecuadorian Coastal Properties – The premier real estate company in Manta, Ecuador.
Copyright: Romantic Suite Corazón de Chocolate – Luna Runtun, Adventure SPA – Baños – Ecuador. Luna Runtun, All rights reserved 2016. lunaruntun.com
Ecuador Boutique Hotel Sites
You might be surprised to find hotel websites on the list. But the fact is that lots of them are run by expats.
- Cabañas San Isidro – Nestled in the lush subtropical zone of the eastern Andes, Cabañas San Isidro is a well-known cloud forest lodge in Ecuador.
- La Selva Jungle Lodge – Located high on Lake Garzacocha, deep in Ecuador’s Amazon basin, the richest primary forest on earth.
- Urcu Puyujunda Ecological Cabins – Located in Quito, Ecuador, aims to conserve the cloud forest and help the community strive for a better condition of life as its guest enjoy a more authentic experience.
- Mansion del Rio – A lovely boutique hotel in a former colonial residence a short distance from the main square in Guayaquil.
- Mansion Alcazar Boutique Hotel – Sleep in a colonial mansion and UNESCO world heritage hotel in Cuenca.
- Hotel Casa del Aguila – A new, boutique hotel in a beautifully restored center courtyard of a colonial house built in 1802.
- Casa de Campo Tababela Hotel – Boutique hotel located in Tababela, Ecuador. Known for its vast green spaces and natural setting.
- Grand Victoria Boutique Hotel – Loja’s grandest, 5-star boutique hotel.
- Casa Grande Oceanfront Boutique Hotel – This private home converted into a “boutique hotel” is beautifully decorated and very comfortable. Located in Bahía de Caráquez.
- La Casona de la Ronda Heritage Boutique Hotel – Located in the heart of the historic center of Quito. Known as an oasis of tranquility in the heart of a bustling city.
- Anahi Boutique Hotel – A modern hotel with a friendly atmosphere in Quito.
- Hotel Boutique Carvallo – This old mansion has a homey, welcoming feel with multiple common areas. Located in Cuenca.
- Casa El Edén – Found in the heart of Quito’s historic center, Casa El Edén is set in a magnificently restored colonial style building.
- Canoa Beach Hotel – Your place in Canoa where you can take surf lessons, go paragliding, and more.
- Sacha Lodge – Discover the Amazon with a trip to Sacha, Ecuador’s top ecolodge.
- Hosteria La Barquita – An arm’s lengths from Ecuador’s famous “Ruta del Sol” and Machalilla National Parks.
- La Posada del Quinde Hotel in Otavalo – The top-rated hotel in Otavalo according to TripAdvisor. Known for its warm and cozy ambiance.
- Ecuador Boutique Hotels – A complete list of Ecuador’ most unique lodging at small and private hotels, haciendas, and lodges.
And many have valuable information on their websites and blogs. Check them out! Nobody wants to stay in a chain hotel when scouting the tropics.
Sigred Philipsen
Ecuador News Sites
You’ve got to know what is happening in Ecuador. Here are some of the top sites. These are English-only.
- Ecuador News – Stay up-to-date on all things happening in Ecuador.
- Ecuador Times – The latest information about what is happening in Ecuador and its surrounding areas.
- Cuenca HighLife News – Claims to be the largest English website covering all news in Cuenca, Ecuador.
- Today in Ecuador – Ecuador’s news in English by Ecuador’s largest newspaper, Diario Hoy.
- Ecuador Coastal Newsletter – Quick news about Ecuador.
Michel
Ecuador Tourism Sites
Looking for reputable tourism companies? Here’s lots of good info for would-be expats and investors.
- Adventure Life Galapagos Eco-Tours – Offers Galapagos tours on yachts or land-based multi-sport adventures.
- Galapagos Adventure – Pioneers in Galapagos adventure and land-based tours.
- Galapagos Destiny – Programs that typically range from 5 to 10 days and feature top-rated hotels located on the Santa Cruz, San Cristobal, Isabela, and Floreana islands.
- Adventure Life Ecuador Tours – Cultural Ecuador tours offer an authentic guided experience.
- Latin Trails – See, listen, smell, touch, and taste Ecuador. Soft adventures and off-the-beaten-path travel.
- Enchanted Expeditions – Specialists in Galapagos Islands cruises and mainland Ecuador vacations.
- Ecuador Tours by Ecuador Adventure – Operating since 1991 they take travelers to the mountains, rivers, and more.
- Andean Discovery – Customized Ecuadorian tours and travel to the Galapagos Islands.
- Bertini Tours – A wide selection of tours to the Galapagos Islands and mainland Ecuador. Specializes in mini tours.
- Columbus Ecuador Tours – One of the highest rated tour operators in Ecuador.
- Scuba Iguana – Offers scuba diving cruises, courses, and expeditions in the Galapagos Islands.
- Imagine Ecuador – Offers eco-tours to off-the-trail spots in Ecuador.
- TerraDiversa – Here you will find all the “Must-Do Tours” of Ecuador.
artur
Ecuador General Info Sites
Go to these top picks first.
- Ecuador Articles and Research by Viva Tropical – We’ve written dozens of articles and guides about investing and living in Ecuador. So of course we are going to add them to our list. Give them a look. We are certain there isn’t much about Ecuador that you won’t find on those pages.
- Get Quito Ecuador – The complete source for all things about, in, and around Quito, Ecuador.
- All You Need Is Ecuador – Ecuador’s official travel and tourism site.
- Ecuador Travel blog – Ecuador’s official travel blog. In both Spanish and English.
- Ecuador.com – Great resource on Ecuador and activities available.
- Quito.com – Essential for anyone thinking about visiting or living in Quito.
- Ecuador.US – Great wealth of information on all things Ecuador. Geared more toward travel.
- This Is Ecuador – Billed as the most complete guide to Ecuador.
- Ecuador at Your Service – Ecuador at-a-glance. Geared to those thinking of relocating to Ecuador.
- The Best of Ecuador -An Ecuador travel guide and business directory.
Did we miss your site?
If you have a great site about Ecuador and think it should be on this list, give us a shout, and we’ll review it for you!