Many baby boomers are wondering when might be the best time to explore the possibilities of expat life in the land of Pura Vida. The time has never been better: Move to Costa Rica now.

This Central American location has long been a favorite for people looking for their tropical escape.  There are many reasons to take that big step and relocate to Costa Rica. Here is a list of the reasons to move to Costa Rica.

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1. Connectivity

One of the principal concerns that confront many potential expats is the distance from family and friends in the U.S. Costa Rica is a short distance from the States and the two international airports, Daniel Oduber Quirós in Liberia and Juan Santamaria in San Jose, both have regularly scheduled flights from many U.S. cities.

Additionally, there are several shipping companies that operate between the U.S. and Costa Rica. For those individuals seeking to bring down larger items, such as furniture or vehicles, the close proximity to U.S. ports makes this both a viable and affordable option.

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2. Variety of Locations

Expats coming to Costa Rica have a choice of locations and lifestyles that they can choose from. The diversity of locations offered by Costa Rica is unique among many Latin American countries and provides a true range of residential and investment options.

For those who want the cosmopolitan feel of a modern city with a strong expat presence, the areas around San Jose, Escazu, and Alajuela are a great choice.  If a more laid-back, Bohemian lifestyle is your idea of paradise, the southern Nicoya Peninsula has many locations and possibilities. Surfers seeking to find that “endless summer” can look to the area around Jaco and the smaller villages for their retreat to paradise.

Maybe higher-end resort living is something that ticks your boxes. Tamarindo, Playa Flamingo, and much of Costa Rica’s Gold Coast offers upscale lifestyle and properties with the kind of amenities one would expect from such locations. Los Suenos, in the Central Pacific Zone, is another quality resort and marina that is second to none in quality and style.

The call of the mountains can be a powerful draw for some. The area around Lake Arenal not only has stunning views but unique properties and a large expat presence. More secluded options can be found farther south in the region around Puriscal and the Diamante Valley.

With constantly improving and growing infrastructure, even areas that were largely undeveloped are experiencing a wave of growth. Few locations in Central or South America have as developed an infrastructure over so much of the country as Costa Rica.

Regardless whether the beach, the city, mountains, jungle, or a rural setting is your heart’s desire, it can be found in Costa Rica. Looking at the kind of properties available is a great way to narrow down your selections to help you make your move to Costa Rica now.

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3. Green Living

Costa Rica has long dedicated itself to maintaining and sustaining the environment.  Establishing “green zones” and limiting development and deforestation are just some of eco-friendly measures that have been pursued in recent years.

Expats readily discover that living in Costa Rica is healthier. The less stressful lifestyle, abundance of locally grown fruits and vegetables, and reliable and clean water are all contributing factors.

The quality of medical care in Costa Rica is not only equal to that found in many larger countries, such as the U.S., the cost is much lower. With state-of-the-art facilities like CIMA and Hospital Clinica Biblica, even complex medical procedures can be performed by highly skilled and certified medical practitioners.

For those seeking to explore the benefits of alternative medicine, there are many yoga retreats and wellness centers offering different approaches to treating health concerns.  With so many choices, maintaining good health is both convenient and comparatively low cost.

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4. Abundant Investment Opportunities

Following the global financial meltdown of 2008, Costa Rica has begun to see resurgence in real estate investments. Not only have the construction and sale of individual residences increased dramatically, larger investors are looking to build developments and open new areas to the expat and tourist industry.  Dominical, Uvita, and Golfito are some of the communities where investment dollars are being focused.

As property values continue to climb and demand continues to grow, the return on initial expenditures is also on the upswing. For established areas such as the Central Valley, there is a significant increase being seen as a new wave of expats arrives to settle there.

While this does mean that purchases prices are higher here than elsewhere in Latin America, the potential for an increase in value is also higher. For buyers wanting to maximize the return on their investment, Costa Rica is a great choice.

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5. Choose Your Own Adventure

As with any life-changing action, you need to be certain that you are prepared for the adventure. Here are a couple of matters to consider:

First and most important is the question of how you plan to support yourself in Costa Rica? Are you going to use a fixed income, such as social security or a pension? Are you an investor looking to earn returns on your initial allocation? Are you planning on working or opening a business? Understanding the legal aspects of these options and being realistic about your budget before moving can reduce heartache and “expat regret” after the fact.

Secondly, are you thinking of becoming a resident or would you be a “permanent tourist” and leave the country every 90 days to renew your visa? Costa Rica is considering changes that could clamp down on expats who either don’t qualify or can’t qualify for residency. While these changes haven’t become widespread, it is important to consider your own long term plans as to whether you want to live full time or part time in the country.

It is important for you to do your research on these kinds of matters. Connect with other expats through social media, read online articles, and learn about the life in the country. Above all, never be afraid to ask questions; the only silly question is the one that is never asked.

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6.  There are Real Estate Bargins

So the question many potential expats ask is: Why should I move to Costa Rica now? A better question would be: Why should you wait?

The Costa Rica real estate market is on the upswing and, as more and more baby boomers get set to retire, the competition to find “the best bargains” is only going to get tighter. Waiting until another time may result in you missing out on your dream location.

With an affordable and healthier lifestyle, modern amenities, and some of the most beautiful and scenic locales on earth, walking away from the hectic and stressful life in the U.S. can provide a fresh perspective on just how good living can be.

Take a look for yourself. Visit Costa Rica, explore the cities, towns, and beaches and talk to those who have made the journey. Taking these first steps is the best way to find your home in paradise.