Sek Keung Lo
The third largest feline in the world (behind the tiger and lion) and the largest in the western hemisphere, the jaguar makes its home in the jungles from Northern Mexico to Northern Argentina.
Today this majestic giant, recognized by its pale yellow coat and black spots, is found almost exclusively in the forests of government-protected reserves and is considered a ‘near threatened’ species by the International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN).
Why are Jaguars ‘near threatened’?
Hunted heavily for its gorgeous coat in the 1960’s and 1970’s, thousands upon thousands of jaguars were killed annually until the Convention on the International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES) brought the fur trade to an almost immediate halt in 1973.
Extinct in El Salvador and Uruguay, yet still living in 18 countries in Latin America, the best place to catch a glimpse of these mysterious animals is Belize.
Why Belize?
In Belize you will find the only jaguar preserve on the planet, the Cockscomb National Park. This park covers 150 miles of lush rainforest and is home to 200 jaguars.
And while there is no guarantee that you will spot a jaguar if you make the trip down to Cockscomb, here your odds will be better than any other place on earth.
Jaguars have binocular and color vision, an extremely heightened sense of hearing and are known for their stealth. Needless to say they are not the easiest animals to find and spotting one would be a rare and thrilling occurrence.
But with a little luck and these tips to direct you, you may just get to view one of these breathtaking cats stalking through their jungle home.
Follow these jaguar spotting tips:
- Search at night: Jaguars are nocturnal, so the best time to go looking is at night when they will be out and about (although some lucky observers have seen them sunning themselves in the early morning). Cockscomb is equipped with rentable camp sites and cabins built specifically for jaguar spotting expeditions.
- Go during rainy season: The best time to spot a jaguar is during the rainy season (June and July) when they are most active.
- Hire a guide: Be sure to hire a licensed guide to help direct you through the rainforest. They will be able to track the jaguar’s prints and droppings which will increase your odds of a sighting. You can look for a guide in either Belmopan or Placencia. For added comfort, the guides at Ian Anderson’s Caves Branch just out of Belmopan are also trained medics.
- Keep quiet: As hard is it may be, stay as silent as possible. Shy by nature, the jaguar will avoid foreign sounds at all costs.
Even if you don’t spot a jaguar, you will not leave Cockscomb disappointed. Alive with a diverse range of animals like peccaries (wild pigs), toucans, and howler monkeys and simply bursting with colorful flora and over 290 species of birds, Cockscomb is still worth the trip.
Jaguars in Costa Rica
Although your chances of seeing a jaguar in Costa Rica may not be as good as they were on the jaguar reserve in Belize, jaguars still roam the jungles of Costa Rica. Scattered across the country in numerous protected areas, the large cats have been spotted in places like the Children’s Eternal Rainforest, La Selva Biological Station, and the Corcovado National Park to name a few.
Corcovado National Park covers 475 square kilometres and is packed with 500 species of trees, 370 species of birds, over 4,000 insects and thousands of wild pigs.
Once an ideal habitat for jaguars, around 100 cats lived in Corcovado in 1997, but sadly the number dropped to 40-50 in 2004.
Despite being on a protected reserve, poachers continued to illegally hunt peccaries until the jaguars were forced to venture out to the neighboring farmland in search for food, where they were often killed on site.
Despite the low number of jaguars, your best chance of spotting one is by boat. Jaguars prefer the river bank to rest and hunt, so climb in a boat and scan the river bank for a glimpse of these spotted felines.
Are you ready to spot a jaguar?
No, it won’t be the easiest task, but if you are determined to see a jaguar in its natural environment, there is still a chance. Play the odds and head for Belize.
And once there, hire a guide, practice extreme patience, cross your fingers for a little extra luck and you just might get the rare opportunity to see this beautiful and secretive animal up close.
International living is an adventure that most of us have on our bucket list. Choosing to live overseas, either short or long term, is a huge adventure: and those who’ve done it usually say it was the best thing they’ve ever done.
Not only does becoming an expat open your mind to more of what the world has to offer, it can also remind you about the most important things in life.
The benefits of international living are wide and varied. If you’re thinking about making a big move overseas, some of our favorite expat benefits might encourage you to take the plunge.
The chance to start afresh
One of the things that attracts people to the idea of moving overseas is the chance it offers to start afresh. Many people give up stressful jobs, huge social networks, and large expenses when they leave the U.S., and giving up all these things is a brilliant opportunity to simplify your life.
Becoming an expat gives you the chance to get back to basics and really learn what’s important to you. Often, expats find that they get to know themselves better in the first year they spend abroad than they did in a whole lifetime of living at home.
The chance to own less and do more
When you live in the U.S. it’s so easy to get caught up in a cycle of endless bills. Things like gym memberships, cable subscriptions, and active credit cards seem like vital parts of life: but they don’t have to be. Moving overseas breaks the cycle of these bills, and gives you a new way to spend your money.
Expats tend to travel, explore and do so much more than the rest of us. They know that in the long run, experiences are much more valuable than belongings, and they remember this as they trek through the jungle, visit ancient ruins, and take part in exotic celebrations.
The chance to learn new things
When you live internationally, learning new things becomes a key part of everyday life. It’s likely that there will be huge differences between your home country and the country you decide to emigrate to. Holidays, celebrations, behavior, social customs, and language will all be different, and learning about and experiencing all those differences can be great fun.
Learning these new things can also be one of the more challenging parts of international living. Settling into a new lifestyle can take time, but it can also be incredibly rewarding. You may also find that you’re much stronger and more capable than you thought.
The chance to get inspired
When you move overseas, you can expect to open yourself up to all sorts of new opportunities. Doing this is always incredibly inspiring. If you are a creative, the benefits of being inspired in this way will be immediate. Seeing and learning new things on a daily basis will encourage you to create like you have never created before!
If you’re not a creative, you’ll still find this kind of inspiration valuable. You probably won’t be tempted to start a blog or pick up your camera… but you might find yourself dreaming up new business ideas or trying your hand at a new hobby.
Is there a downside to expat life?
Of course, even the most wonderful adventures aren’t wonderful all the time. There are some downsides to expat living, and it’s important to weigh these up against the positives and decide if it is really right for you.
- When you decide to emigrate overseas, you will be opening yourself up to exciting new adventures; but you’ll also be missing things back home. Expats sometimes find it hard to spend long periods of time away from friends and family. It can also be hard to return home after a prolonged period overseas, as it can be hard to adjust to the changes that have occurred while you were away.
- The constant flow of new things and opportunities you will face as an expat can be exhilarating, but it can also be frightening. Living a successful life overseas will involve conquering that fear!
- Holidays that you are used to at home may not be celebrated in your chosen country, or they may be celebrated in a very different way. This can result in some interesting new experiences, but missing out on your favorite holiday the way you are used to it can make you feel homesick.
Is international living for you?
Of course, there are downsides to the expat life, but for most people they are well outnumbered by the positives. Cheaper and more regular flights as well as the growth of the internet and services like Skype have made communicating with people back home much easier.
If you’re hungry for a new adventure, moving overseas could be the right choice for you. Becoming an expat is likely to change your whole perspective on life for the better. It can enable you to reduce your spending habits, embrace change and really get back to basics.
The biggest benefit of international living and the expat life is that you never know where it might take you.
Living in Central and South America is a dream many Northerners hold but simply do not know how to make a reality. Financially supporting your life and travel abroad in Latin America is surprisingly simple and actually common among many travelers. You do not need a work visa and you do not need a resume. Get savvy and explore these options, which offer valuable work and life experience while funding your time abroad.
Live for Free in a Hostel
Hostels all over provide free food and lodging for volunteers who contribute to the upkeep of hostels. Meet other travelers and get a taste of what it would be like to own and run your own. Consider where you would like to live, then contact hostels with good reviews on sites like TripAdvisor or Hostel World. Better yet, build relationships while backpacking and circle back to the hostels that made you feel at home.
Work in a Local Café
Expat-owned cafes tend to hire foreigners who can speak English fluently with tourists. Wages tend to be low but if you work in places frequented by North Americans you will likely make enough in tips to get by. This is an excellent experience in learning what it takes to run a café in a developing country.
Volunteer on a Farm
Contact permaculture and organic farms which usually operate with the help of local and expat volunteers. Learn how to grow your own food while living for free. Some farms may even pay you based on how much you yield. Research areas near National Parks with farming and expat communities. In Costa Rica many opportunities exist on the Osa Peninsula and in the mountainous region of Panama surrounding Boquete.
Become a Divemaster
Providing dive lessons in tourist towns can be lucrative and it’s a great way to dive for free. It takes some investment to get your certification through PADI, but if you love to dive it is an ideal job.
Teach English
It may not be as lucrative as teaching in Japan or Korea, but opportunities exist in Latin American cities for foreigners teaching English. Seek out cities looking for native English speakers.
Give Massages
Many spas in beach and tourist towns all over Latin America employ foreigners certified to practice massage. Prices are geared towards tourists which can offer a pretty decent income. It is also possible to avoid the overhead expense of working in a spa by setting up your own shop on the beach. Be aware that this is often illegal but the law is rarely enforced.
Teach Yoga
Like massage therapists there is a demand for yoga instructors, particularly in Costa Rica which tends to have at least one studio in every town. You can also offer private lessons to tourists in their homes or hotels or teach your own public classes on the beach.
Manage Rental Properties
Many foreigners who own homes abroad choose to live elsewhere for a good part of the year. This is so common that a demand exists for rental agents advertising and managing vacation rentals. If you have a background in real estate or property management this is a great way to make first world wages abroad. It is possible to represent yourself or become part of a local company.
Invest in Your Own Business
This is the most common path expats tend to take when deciding to live abroad. Is there a business you have always dreamed of running? Perhaps a hotel and spa? An organic café? A hip wine bar? A shop selling artisan goods? A tour company showing the best of the country you love? Your options are endless and investment tends to be much less expensive than in Western countries. If your business is geared towards tourists you can charge first world rates and make a good livable income.
Work Online
You can find incredible freedom to live and work anywhere in the world at any given time when you are able to work online. Depending on your skill set you can create a freelance business online likely makes the same wages you made in your home country. Look on job boards for freelance writing opportunities, develop a client base for web and graphic design, or find a way to make your other skills work online. There are Interior Designers, Nutritionists, Project Managers, Marketers, and others who have shifted their careers to be entirely based online.
Get creative and find a way to finance living abroad if you feel called to do so. It is more than possible.
Market Stages are crucial for real estate investors to make sense of property prices in Central America.
Especially when those prices seem so irrational.
It took me a long time to wrap my left-brained, over analytical, where-are-the-market comps? mind to wrap itself around property values and markets in Central America.
How did I finally get a grip on the apparent chaos?
Market Stages – The Missing Link
We wrote in a more boring and detailed way about market stages over on our investor blog. Then we decided to make an infographic to help you first understand the stages.
Once you understand what the stages are, there are all sorts of ways they can help you and we’re going to write about those.
Things like:
- Pricing: How to value properties in Central America
- Business Plans: What should I build?
- Customers: Who is going to buy my real estate?
- Timing: What in the world drives the timing of real estate markets in Central America?
We’ll get to that. But first, use this infographic to learn the stages.
Photo: Sal Falko
There are many factors to consider when visiting or relocating to Latin America. The question of health insurance is an important one to answer before you get there.
Do I need to purchase private health insurance?
First you’ll need to decide if you even need to purchase private health insurance. This will depend largely on the length of your proposed stay and the coverage offered by your current health insurance in your home country. Many U.S. health insurance policies do not cover any medical treatment obtained outside the United States. However, there are some that do.
Still others may cover only emergency medical treatment or air evacuation back to the U.S. Even in situations where U.S. policy coverages do extend, the out-of-network rate usually applies. Plus you’ll likely need to pay the bill yourself up front and then get reimbursed later, which could be a real headache for major expenses.
It’s important to read up on your policy and understand what coverage it provides. Don’t just assume you’re protected once you leave. Travelers can also obtain temporary health insurance that will help in the event of an emergency while they’re out of the country.
Some countries even offer free emergency health insurance to tourists for a limited time while they’re within the country’s borders. Panama is one. The coverage is good for 30 days and is only available to those who enter through Tocumen International Airport.
What if I plan to relocate permanently?
For those who plan to reside extensively or even permanently in another country, you’ll likely need to seek private insurance. If you already have a policy, start by finding out if it (or another policy with the same company) will be of any assistance.
Be aware that Medicare and many other government programs are not available to those residing outside the U.S. Nor is medical evacuation back to the States.
There are a few expats who choose not to carry private health insurance for a variety of reasons. Some countries may have government-sponsored health insurance that is available to foreign residents (although it might not offer patients the same comforts and freedoms of private insurance).
Some expats choose to self-insure their medical expenses. This is a viable option for many, since the cost of medical treatment in Latin American countries is often a fraction of what the same procedure would cost in the U.S. However, it’s best reserved for those who are in good health and who also have the financial solvency to bear the burden of any medical expenses should the unthinkable happen.
Where do I go to look for health insurance?
If the extent of your experience with health insurance in your home country was seeing the line item where it was debited from your paycheck each week, you might want to consider the advice of a qualified insurance specialist. Find an agent in your destination country who represents multiple companies and can research all of them to recommend the policy that is the best fit for your needs.
On the other hand, if you feel like you have a good understanding of how this stuff works, you can also shop and compare on your own. There are many companies who offer health insurance policies that are tailored for expats. Some popular choices are Global Health, Aetna, HCC, Bupa, IMG, and Seven Corners, to name a few.
What factors do I need to consider when shopping for health insurance?
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Cost – While cost is certainly an important thing to compare when shopping for health insurance, make sure you consider all the aspects of it. Not just the premium. Look at the cost to benefit ratio, as lower premiums often mean lower limits or higher copayments. Also find out if it has annual percentage increases or any other hidden costs.
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Coverage Area – Will your new plan cover you if you travel outside your destination country? Or if you return to the U.S.? Examine the terms carefully to see where your coverage extends. There are a lot of worldwide policies available. For a bit of a savings, you can also find global policies that specifically exclude the U.S. Because its health care costs are some of the highest in the world.
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Plan Features – Make sure you understand all the ins and outs of your new coverage. Does it cover only in-network providers, or will you have the freedom to choose? You’ll want to ensure that the limits are adequate. They may apply per year or over your lifetime. There may also be individual limits on specific services such as air evacuation. See if your policy covers things like repatriation, the return of mortal remains in the event of a person’s death.
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Pre-existing Conditions – If you have any, make sure your new policy will cover them. It’s not uncommon for certain health problems to be excluded under a new policy or to require additional premiums.
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Payment Format – Many international policies don’t pay via direct billing like they do in the U.S. Many policies may require you to pay the charges up front and file for reimbursement.
- Fine Print – Read your policy carefully before you sign on the dotted line. International health insurance can be tricky, and you don’t want to find out the hard way that an expensive procedure you need isn’t covered. The fine print may spell out details such as when coverage expires, benefits levels that are lowered after a certain age, or situations that might cause your premium to increase (like filing excessive claims).
One ambition that most of us share is to live a long, happy, and fruitful life. The life expectancy of the average U.S. citizen is 78.2 years, and many people hope to spend ten or fifteen years of their life in retirement.
Photo Credit: Sushicam
For a growing group of individuals, living overseas is emerging as an attractive option for this period of their life. Exciting terrains such as Central and Latin America are brilliant options for retired expats, and communities of like-minded individuals are popping up in countries like Nicaragua, Costa Rica, and Ecuador.
For many of us, the idea of moving abroad in our twilight years is something that sounds a bit scary. However, there is evidence to suggest that traveling, and even living overseas, could make your brain younger. In other words, taking the plunge and making your expat dreams a reality could turn you into a super ager!
How Can You Become a Super Ager?
Scientific researchers have spent years looking into the secret of a long and active life, and they are starting to make discoveries. Susan Krauss Whitmore, a Professor of Psychology, recently wrote an article for the Huffington Post titled How To Be A 50 Plus Brain ‘SuperAger’.
In the article, Krauss Whitmore writes:
Researchers are well on their way to discovering the elements of what they call successful cognitive aging, in that they stay above the norm on tasks that require memory, planning and general knowledge. They take advantage of what neuroscientists call brain or cognitive “plasticity.”
The idea of brain plasticity is best described as how quickly our brain is able to react and change to new experiences. Every time we experience something new, our brain has to reorganize its neural pathways in order to accommodate the new information it’s gained.
The more easily our brains are able to do this, the more active our brains will be as we get older. However, if our brains are under-stimulated, they lose the ability to create neural pathways as easily, and therefore lose plasticity.
Because of this, there’s an argument that the harder we work our brains, the more prepared they will be to stay active and intelligent as we age. Many older people take steps to do puzzles or mind teaser games to promote this effect, but travel can work just as well – and it’s a lot more fun.
How Does Travel Help?
When we travel, we open ourselves up to many new and diverse experiences. We see new things, learn about new cultures and histories, and taste new types of food. All these things mean that our brains need to retain their plasticity to keep up.
There is also a key argument to say that changing your routine can be very good for maintaining the plasticity of your brain. Instead of staying in the same city and visiting the same places, traveling further afield can provide very valuable mental stimulation.
How far you choose to travel depends on how adventurous you are. Some of us might benefit from spending a weekend break in the next state, whereas others may decide that their retirement is the perfect opportunity to visit the further afield places that they’ve always wanted to see.
If you dream of buying a retirement property in Antigua, Guatemala or Cuenca, Ecuador, you may find that your new life there could make your brain scientifically younger.
If you’re considering moving abroad, the recommendations of the U.S. government are likely the last thing on your mind. Nevertheless, Big Brother has a virtual guide for those who are planning on moving, or even just traveling overseas.
Photo Credit: Highway Agency
While a lot of the suggestions may seem like just another way for the government to keep tabs on you while you’re out of the country, some of the tips may actually prove helpful.
Advice about Marriage
For those who wish to get married abroad, the laws can vary greatly from one country to the next. There may be various documentation and residency requirements, so research the process well before you plan to tie the knot.
Some of the necessary steps might include blood tests, affidavits, or certified copies of documents such as divorce decrees or death certificates, if one party was in a previous marriage. Contact the country’s embassy or tourist information bureau for more information.
Ceremonies are usually performed by a local civil or religious official. Once you are married, the U.S. consular can authenticate the marriage documents issued by the country where the marriage is performed. However, you’ll need to verify with your state of residence whether they will recognize the marriage if you plan on returning to the U.S.
Birth
The child of a U.S. citizen born abroad automatically acquires citizenship at birth. All you’ll likely need to do is contact the U.S. Embassy or Consulate to obtain a Consular Report of Birth Abroad of a Citizen of the United States of America (Form FS-240). This form will be needed once the child needs to obtain a passport or enroll in school, and it’s better to obtain it immediately than to wait until you need it.
Advice about Divorce
As with marriage, the validity of a divorce obtained overseas will depend largely on your state of residence.
Death
When a U.S. citizen dies overseas, the Bureau of Consular Affairs provides a number of services to the person’s family. They first notify the next-of-kin and explain the options for local burial or transport of the body to the U.S. >While they also assist with information on how the family can transfer funds for such services, they do not provide any monetary assistance to the family of the deceased. They also inventory and return any personal effects to the deceased’s family.
Federal Benefits
If you are receiving any kind of federally-provided benefits, you’ll need to notify the appropriate federal agency (i.e. Social Security, Veteran’s Affairs, etc.) to advise them of your new address. Allow at least 60 days to make sure you don’t miss any checks.
If that seems like a lot of notice, just think back on your last trip to the DMV.
You should notify the agency of your new address even if your payments are being sent to a bank. If you find a bank in your new country of residence that will accept a direct deposit, you can contact the agency to arrange for this change as well.
You should also note that, while being out of the country has no effect on your eligibility for many benefits (such as Social Security), you will not be able to receive benefits from Medicare or Medicaid outside the United States.
Documentation and Identification
When traveling to most countries, you will need to have a valid passport. Many also require that your passport’s expiration date be well past the date of your planned return to the U.S. If your passport is lost or stolen, report the issue immediately to the local authorities and the U.S. Embassy or Consulate. The consul can issue you a replacement, often within 24 hours.
If you plan to drive, find out the requirements for licensing in your destination country. While many require a license and insurance, some do accept an international driver’s permit. However, most do not recognize a U.S. driver’s license.
Voting
Don’t let your absence prevent you from exercising your civic duty. Receiving an absentee ballot is easier than ever, as many jurisdictions have the capability to fax or even email the forms.
You can visit FVAP.gov to complete a Federal Post Card Application (FPCA). However you will need to complete this process every year, preferably in January. While you should receive your ballot 45 days prior to general and mid-term elections (30 days before special, primary, and run-off elections), make sure to be proactive. Follow up if you don’t receive it on time, and submit it as early as possible to make sure your vote is counted.
Taxes
We covered death overseas. Might as well mention taxes. Once again it’s inevitable. All the usual reporting requirements and deadlines still apply for those living abroad. Consult your tax professional with questions about any income earned overseas. If you do have any, you’ll need to make sure all amounts are converted and reported in U.S. dollars.
Health
The government recommends that you familiarize yourself with any conditions in your destination country that could have an impact on your health. Some examples are altitude, allergies, the availability of medical facilities, required immunizations, etc. The Centers for Disease Control website is a good resource for more information on your country of residence.
It is also recommended to bring along a letter from your physician describing any medical conditions you may have and to explain the necessity of any medications you’re carrying. When traveling, you should always carry drugs, eyeglasses, and other medical items in your carry-on. Consider a medical alert bracelet if you suffer from any life-threatening conditions.
When medical treatment is needed, the U.S. Embassy or Consulate can provide a list of physicians and facilities. However, they’d like you to note that the providers are listed alphabetically; their order is not a ranking of the quality of care they provide. Furthermore, “the inclusion of a specific physician or medical facility does not constitute a recommendation and the Department of State assumes no responsibility or liability for the professional ability or reputation of, or the quality of services provided by, the medical professionals, medical facilities, or air ambulance services whose names appear on such lists.”
Whew! That was a long sentence. Oh, also, the list cannot be reproduced in any form without the express written consent of major league baseball.
The cost of medical procedures overseas can vary greatly, and most U.S. health insurance isn’t accepted. Short term travel policies that cover you when traveling abroad are available from many insurers.
Customs and Import Restrictions
Before bringing any items into or out of a country, make sure you know what’s legal. Items such as food, medications, and even pets can be restricted in some countries. Also prohibited are items associated with endangered wildlife, such as ivory, furs, feathers, leather, and coral products. Consult your country’s U.S. embassy to find out more about any restrictions.
You thought you were escaping the ever-mounting pile of junk mail, but the U.S. government recommends that you make arrangements to receive your mail if you’ll be gone for an extended period of time. A few international banks and credit card companies may provide mail services for their customers. Some foreign post offices will also hold mail for travelers.
General Precautions
On its travel website, the U.S. government lists a number of other precautions. While some are really just common sense, like not traveling with valuables, a few are worth mentioning. For instance, you should always make sure friends or relatives back home have copies of your itinerary. Also leave home with additional copies of your travel documents, and pack an extra copy in your bags, separate from the originals.
Always plan for the unexpected, taking extra cash or credit cards for emergencies. There are a lot of scams out there, so stay away from any deal that seems questionable. And, if anyone asks you to carry a small, unmarked package in your luggage in exchange for a sum of money…for goodness sake, don’t do it.
Remember that when you’re out of the country, you’re subject to different laws. And if you do something illegal, you’re on your own.
Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)
In an effort to protect its citizens abroad, or maybe just to perpetually monitor your whereabouts, the government is proud to offer the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP). By registering your travel plans, you can receive updates about the country where you’ll be traveling, as well as travel warnings and alerts.
Reportedly the program also enables the government to better assist you in the event of a minor (e.g. lost passport) or major (e.g. earthquake) emergency.
Regardless of the destination or duration of your trip, the Department of State and Bureau of Consular Affairs is an excellent resource for many of your needs while overseas.
Doing business in Latin America can be tricky. Not everyone is forthright, and there are a lot of scammers just waiting to take advantage of an unsuspecting gringo. The good news is that there are a lot of honest professionals who want your trust as well as your business. The key is making sure those are the ones you’re trusting with your time and money.
Josh Linnes and Park Wilson, co-founders of Emerging Terrains, talk candidly about their experiences buying, developing, and selling property in Latin America.
So is Central America a bad place to do business or invest in property?
Josh: Absolutely not. Most people in Latin America are good folks. But there are a few out there who have literally built their business model around taking advantage of people. And we’re not talking about souvenir vendors here. They can be quite organized and sophisticated.
Park: This is no different than in any other country. But if you’re coming down here as a greenhorn, just be aware that you can be easily identified as a target.
How do I avoid getting mixed up with the wrong person or company?
Josh: If you have never done business in a foreign country before, it’s best to stick with the reputable companies. They’re easy to find. It just takes doing some internet research and sending a few emails.
Park: Josh is right. It’s a lot harder to be a long-term scam artist these days. If the company’s been in business a decent length of time, you can easily find out if they’ve ticked anybody off.
I like to do searches for the company name with the words “scam” or “rip-off” tacked on. You can even try “Don’t ever do business with…” and then the company name. It’s surprising what you can find.
And always talk to more than one source. I like to make sure I get the same answers from several different references before I truly put my confidence in someone.
That sounds like a lot of research. Do I need to do this for every different category of professional I’ll be dealing with?
Park: Not necessarily. From our experience, we’ve found the whole “birds of a feather” concept to be very true in the Latin American business culture. So when you find someone who’s proven to be trustworthy, they are going to be connected with other people who are also reliable.
For instance, if I find a credible attorney, I might ask him to recommend another professional, like an architect.
Josh: This goes both ways too. Get mixed up with the wrong company, and before you know it you could find yourself in a whole nest of crooks.
Park: There are also some other good resources out there that require less homework on your part. For instance, try Martindale.com when searching for an attorney. A good attorney is a key player in Latin American real estate transactions, so that isn’t the place to try to save a buck.
I’m not saying you have to go with the most expensive attorney in the country, but–even if you did–that’s a very small investment for the peace of mind it buys.
What’s the best litmus test for determining if someone can be trusted?
Josh: A good rule of thumb is to make sure you’re working with someone who shares your interests and will benefit when you do. Buying from a reputable property owner is a good place to start.
If you’re buying a piece of land in a project where the owner has a vested interest in the development, then what’s good for you is good for them. And vice versa. The last thing they need is an unsatisfied customer.
Park: A classic example of misalignment is the relationship between a buyer and the listing agent on a property. They hold all the answers to disseminate as they see fit. And they only get paid if you buy. After the transaction’s completed, they get to walk away without any further responsibility to you.
Just be aware of that.
Is it possible to over-think things when determining who you can trust?
Park: It is. One thing that helps me when starting business relationships is to ask myself, “Exactly what is it I’m trusting this person for?” If they’re selling me a piece of land, I have to trust that they own it and have the right to sell it to me. If they’re an escrow agent, I need to believe that they aren’t going to run off with my money.
It helps put things in perspective for me. When I’m choosing a surveyor, I don’t have to find someone I could trust to raise my first-born child. I just need a guy who knows how to put the dang stakes in the right spot.
Josh: On the flip side, don’t be too relaxed with this. Just know that you are responsible for your actions. Don’t let yourself think you can rely on other people or on the government to bail you out. At the end of the day, you’re on your own.
“Carumba!” the driver shouted. What was he going on about? Oh, there it is. The spluttering of the outboard engine. And then, no more spluttering. And no more engine. There we were, in the middle of the ocean in a dug-out canoe. With no engine.
“Carumba!” the driver said again. I wanted to say something else. You see, I had a plan. I needed to check out the progress on our island project and go to the bank that Saturday. So the business man in me worked it out logically. The trip to the island itself should take three hours, in an ideal, non-Central-American world.
I multiplied that by three (which I like to call the Cultural Harmonizer and it goes something like this: for every unit of time you expect to complete a task, multiply that by at least three and harmony will follow. Note: works in most countries). Nine hours should see me on and off the island leaving plenty of time to make a bank deposit before it closes. Right? Wrong. Wrong wrong wrong.
Culture, you see, makes all the difference. In arranging my trip to the island, I booked this boat with a picture of what I thought was clear and specific language. I asked for a fast boat big enough for the driver, a worker, and me. I got a dug-out canoe with a five horsepower engine. And now that five horsepower was zero. And we were floating backwards. Even though the boat trip on the way there had taken an hour instead of the 18 minutes as I’d expected, I wasn’t worried; according to my skillful Cultural Harmonizer calculation… We still had plenty of time for me to complete my objectives.
So while the driver was pulling off the duct tape from the engine, doing something that looked like a French plait with the wires, and occasionally scolding the rusty engine with a slap from his palm, I went to work. I went to work looking for the paddle in our tiny canoe. Turns out, that stick underneath the mound of a fishing net which I was using as a seat was the paddle, really? There is no “real” paddle? No problem, I thought. I’ve done plenty of paddling. Let’s try and figure out which end is which and off we go.
The thing was insanely heavy, maybe 50 lbs., and didn’t have a blade or any paddle shape, let alone a handle. After an hour of maneuvering this pole, my arms were cramped and against my better judgment, I admitted defeat. There was no way we were going to make it in time. Our boat was literally moving backward down the mangroves with the outgoing tide. The Cultural Harmonizer theory needed to be adjusted, it is not an exact science, but it appears it can be modified for any country. I missed the bank that day, and received several concerned calls after missing payroll. The businessman within me learned a lot from these types of experiences that always seem to accompany expat life.
I realized that I am the stranger in a strange land. Especially when you’re dealing with a culture so different to your own where fast means five horsepower, and boat means hollowed out log. If you are new to a country, using this calculation can be very helpful when managing your stress levels; though it might take a bit of time to learn how to calibrate, it can be a very handy tool. The culture in any given place has lots of momentum; notice how it works, then do what you do. Carumba!
When you scout properties for a living, you never know where you will find yourself. The chilly peaks of the Andes Mountains, the sweltering jungles of Costa Rica, or the tropical islands of Panama. What you can count on is the unpredictable; I have got my car stuck in a river, had engine failure while out at sea, and experienced short horseback rides that turn into all day affairs. Whatever the situation, the last thing you need is unreliable gear.
Here’s a list of the gear I’ve found absolutely invaluable during my time in Central America and beyond.
1. Go Pro Camera
Bombproof, this camera is super tough and when you purchase some of the accessories like the waterproof case it becomes a tough multi-functional tool. You can use it on a spear fishing trip or strap it to a helicopter to get a bird’s eye view of a real estate project. We attached two of them to our car on a scouting trip to Ecuador and shot 40 hours of footage.
Go Pro’s Hero cam is efficient and a real workhorse. The downside is that it can be difficult to figure out their two button system for commands and there is no way of seeing what you are currently shooting; battery life is not the best either, but the benefits outweigh the limitations. Note: I have not tested the Go Pro 3 yet, so usability could be improved in the new model.
Photo Credit: GoPro by Hero
2. Canon 7D L Series 24mm-105mm and Lens
Great images when coupled with this handy wide angle lens. Even with the crop factor, because of the smaller sensor, I can get the images we need for any use. The video is also good and has influenced my shooting style by allowing me to get images and video clips quickly. The body is tough; from rain, to mud, to bumps, the camera still works flawlessly.
I like to be as light as possible when I am out scouting and exploring; I am not a dedicated photographer, but we need good pictures, so the zoom lens works perfectly for me.
Photo Credit: Faran Grakthaia via Flickr
3. Pants
Gi III. My favorite pants by far, when you are scouting you are walking through jungles, cow fields, rivers, beaches, etc. These pants can get wet, are tough, and dry quickly. It’s important to be comfortable when you are hiking in the jungle all day looking at a 500 acre farm. When your day consists of riding a horse, hiking mountains, crossing rivers, and hopping barbed wire fences, you don’t want to slowed down by being uncomfortable. The adjustable belt allows you change up tension as necessary, like when you have batteries and lens caps in your pockets.
Photo Credit: Patagonia
4. Shirt
I borrowed one of these shirts and it showed me what I had been missing. Usually I rely on the Exofficio brand for my shirts; they are great, but they are also very hot. The Patagonia version has short sleeves which is not very good when you’re stuck in the sun on small boat scouting a coastline. Any exposed skin gets singed by the hot sun. Also when you are in the jungle, bugs can feast on you with short sleeves.
Bonus: These shirts and the pants are easy to clean with a water source and Dr. Bonners soap. When you are on the road for 14 days in a row it can be hard to do laundry; no problem if you have a sink and soap.
Photo Credit: Patagonia
5. Shoes
I have gone through so many pairs of shoes that I don’t have a specific recommendation, the truth is I haven’t yet found a shoe that blends breathe-ability with toughness. Shoes get shredded in this environment from the humidity to barbed wire fences, to trees like the Achote that are literally barbed.
I do have a good piece of advice, don’t get any thing that is open, like the currently popular Amphibious models. If you are scouting land you will be walking through the jungle and or cow fields, both of which have ants, and if you step on an ants’ nest with open shoes you will be very sorry. Also ticks and other jungle critters can get you. If you are just vacationing and not jungle trekking the amphibious models are a great choice.
Photo Credit: Jungle Boots.org
6. Flops
After a tough day in the jungle, I usually take off my boots and socks and switch up to my favorite flip flops. I have owned so many pairs of these it’s amazing. Rainbow have consistently proven to be the longest lasting in this environment, but they get really slippery when it rains. This is treacherous in rainy season, they feel like you are walking on grease, making it very difficult to not slide around, not to mention dangerous.
I recently picked up a pair of the hemp rainbow sandals (I know they are hippy dippy) and have been really happy. They have a layer of hemp across the footbed of the shoe, which helps tremendously with water, plus they have been built by Rainbow which means they are solid and have a great warranty.
Photo Credit: Flickr
7. Laptop
Apple Macbook Pro 15 inch. Great computer, but not really very tough. I am constantly fixing things on my laptop; I am not sure if it has trouble with the dusty environment I live in or bumps on the road, or humidity, all of which are bad for laptops. I think the quality of Apple products has been on a downward slide. I am currently trying to get out of the Apple eco system, but have not found a worthy alternative just yet.
Photo Credit: Flickr
8. Phone Nexus 4
My view on technology right now is that I don’t want to spend a bunch of money on hardware. The reason is, things happen, freak rain storms drown your stuff, things fall out of your bag, humidity, dirty hands, dirty power, etc. Nothing really lasts in this region so why spend money on it.
The Nexus 4 is perfect for here in that it is cheap and functional, now if I can get the same value from my laptop. GPS works well enough to mark trails, roads, boundary lines, pretty amazing actually.
Photo Credit: Nexus
9. Backpack
The Osprey Atmos 50 is a great pack, I will probably get another one when this one finally dies. Throwing it into the storage compartment under the bus, bouncing around in the back of the pickup, or just standing in the corner of the Mango Bay Villa, this pack handles it all.
It isn’t waterproof, but other than that, the pocket arrangement, main compartments and materials are smartly designed to create a quality reliable pack. I usually don’t hike much with these packs, I use it more for short little trips, and when used in this capacity it’s really comfortable.
Photo Credit: Osprey
10. Day Pack
I have had this pack for 3 years, which is amazing, I use it all the time and everything has worked well until recently. The bottom zipper has become corroded, the weather in this region is brutal on zippers. I have lost several pair of surf trunks due to zipper corrosion. The layout of the pack for carrying a SLR, laptop, phone, and all the necessary accessories works really well for me. The internal frame also helps keep the load balanced and feel solid. I sprung for waterproof bags that I keep in the pack in case I get surprised by the rain, more cost-efficient than buying waterproof packs.
Photo Credit: Campist
Do you have a favorite gear item? Leave us a comment below so we can add it to our list.
When you move from a city to a small expat town, it can be extremely hard to fit in.
Here are 13 rules to set you on the right path for small town living as an expat .
In a city, rhythms and lifestyle are so different compared to a small town. Time is of the essence, you have anonymity if you want it, and your actions are rarely judged. If a chance encounter with someone significant occurs in the city, you jump to take advantage of opportunity before it disappears forever.
This is not customarily the case in a small town; in fact, it’s almost the opposite, jumping on an opportunity to meet someone might backfire from being perceived as too aggressive.
Here are 13 rules to set you on the right path, even if you are the new guy.
1. Relax and Take Your Time
People living in small communities have their routine down. They have their friends, activities, and habits already defined. Be aware of this, making room for you means changing their routine, so give it time. Take it slow and be patient, social opportunities will come up without you pushing too hard.
2. Don’t Gossip
Gossiping is very common, everyone knows everything about one another. Gossip can be traded like currency, who slept with who, who is having business trouble, who said what at the last party. You will be challenged to not get involved, not to give your opinion, but do not perpetuate gossip. If you stay out of the gossip circle you are not in danger of creating a relationship based on gossip, (which never last) and even better, you will show you can be trusted. This is what leads to strong long term relationships with good people.
3. People Come Out of the Woodwork
Often the most intriguing people are not at the party. When someone has a good happy rhythm in a small town they often are not looking to be seen. They have found a magic formula and don’t need to socialize at parties to fill a void, these people can be very interesting and discovering them can be a real find.
4. You Are Not a Mind Reader
Try not to interpret everyone else’s actions as liking your or not liking you. Avoid this mind trap, it will lead to nothing but self consciousness and being miserable. Let it go, don’t waste time worrying about what so and so said, or why so and so didn’t call you for their birthday. Stay busy and stay the course great opportunities are in front of you.
5. Respect the Locals
Small towns were there before you got there and will be there when you leave. The residents who are there have a history, which can make them seem irrational at times. For example someone may hate someone else for something that happened 10 years ago, but they won’t let it go. Do not judge; respect the history even if they are not over it yet, chances are they never will be.
6. Understand the Game
Newcomers to small towns predictably look for acceptance. The quickest path to acceptance is to prove your dependability. So, sticking to your own business, and being authentic when social opportunities present themselves is the fastest route. No need to be a recluse, take advantage of every encounter you have, just don’t force it. Do not try get to know people quickly, this goes against the rhythm. You are new to them, and new is an unknown quantity. Once dependability has been established then progress can be made.
7. Stay Busy
Find things you love to do with or without people. Sometimes it is lonely, but if you have a passion that fills your time it will be a giant help as you slowly build up trust and friendship.
8. You Will See People You Know All the Time
You really don’t need to be a social butterfly to get to know people. In fact, limiting your exposure is a good idea. If it’s a small enough town, you will have unplanned interactions with people all the time, at the store, the gas station, parties, etc. Remember there is a finite amount of people, so friendship is a marathon, not a sprint. You may be able to build lasting relationships just from seeing the same person every morning at your favorite breakfast joint.
9.Track Record Matters
Don’t treat people differently based on who you think is watching. This gets noticed in small places. Treat people the same no matter who is watching. Your track record will precede you, people talk. Its up to you, do you want a positive track record or a negative one.
10. Be Mysterious and Unaffected
This is a great way to meet no one and be lonely in a city, but in small towns it can be an excellent strategy. People want to hang out with intriguing people; if they believe you don’t need them, they will come calling. If they think you have a needy personality they will avoid you like a leper. Walking this fine line is laborious, but knowing it exists is really the point.
11. Don’t Hang Out with Your Buddies Too Much
It is so easy to get lulled into habitually socializing with the same people every weekend, hanging with them at parties, or inviting them over all the time. The problem with this is socializing too much can eventually destroy the relationship. Don’t take great friendships for granted, be disciplined and manage your friendships to keep them interesting for the long term. Novelty is highly valued commodity in a small town.
12. Secrets Will Get Out
Secrets have a way of revealing themselves when given enough time. Avoiding the need for secrets in general is smart, but if it is necessary, take the time to discover who you can trust first. You need a reliable network of friends. Hold off on being impulsive with classified information or behavior until you know who is who.
Do you want to explore the world and telecommute? Can you work from your laptop? If so, here are 9 awesome places where you should be doing it.
1. Matapalo, Osa, Costa Rica
Watch Scarlett Macaws fly by as you talk to your friends back home in their cubicle.
Photo Credit: Photography critiques
2. Lake Yojoa, Honduras
Sip some of the world’s best coffee while updating your cloud files.
Photo Credit: aaronernestoortizlopez
3. Barra de la Cruz, Mexico
Check your emails between swells.
Photo Credit: Acer Acera
4. Boca Chica Island, Panama
Kick your feet up in a glass house, watch the monkeys hop from tree to tree while on your next conference call.
Photo Credit: Emerging Terrains
5. San Juan del Sur, Nicaragua
Watch the sun set, while your friends are stuck in traffic.
Photo Credit: Sean9141
6. Playa Las Flores, El Salvador
Turn casual Friday attire into beach attire: flip-flops are mandatory.
Photo Credit: AdventuraCuscatleca
7. Caye Caulker, Belize
Trade in your windowless cubicle for the word’s best vista.
Photo Credit: Mukster
8. Playa Canoa, Ecuador
Dine on freshly caught fish at your next business dinner at Canoa Ecuador.
Photo Credit: Read George
9. Lake Atitlan, Guatemala
Click send, then hit the water for some kayaking.
Photo Credit: Mike Sten
Got any better places to telecommute? Let us know in the comments.