If you are one of many North Americans searching for the best place to live in the world, but don’t know where to begin, then these rankings are for you.
In this inaugural retirement power rankings, I have put together a comprehensive grouping based on the most important criteria for living a happy overseas life.
While most of Central America has a warm tropical climate and a relatively low cost-of-living, each country, city, and town is different and will have something unique to offer you.
To help narrow your search, I have ranked 15 of Latin America’s top destinations based on the combined criteria of value, beauty, ease of access, and healthcare, and quality of life. The number one selection meets the most of the chosen criteria.
So move through the ranked cities and towns, determine which attributes are most important to you, and begin compiling your own list of possible destinations as you search for the best place to live in the world and the perfect spot to call home.
1) Cuenca, Ecuador
Photo: Bill Grenn
Nestled in the Andes and surrounded by four sprawling rivers, the friendly city of Cuenca, Ecuador has become the best place to live in the world for many expats. Cuenca is the ideal retirement spot for expats who like having large city amenities like bars and shopping malls at their fingertips, while living in a tropical environment.
The cobbled streets and historic architecture make Cuenca look like a snapshot straight from a European postcard and the vibe of the city allows expats to live like they would in Paris or San Francisco, but at a fraction of the cost.
A city of 500,000 respectably, Cuenca locals are extremely welcoming of North American expats and many of the people and store owners speak English, making it easy for expats to settle into Cuenca life.
The perfect place to retire or even to raise a family, this artisan community promotes education (there are 8 universities in Cuenca) and has a good health care system comprised of 18 hospitals and medical centers. Time will tell if Cuenca can last atop the ratings or become a passing fad.
2) Boquete, Panama
Rita Willeart
Boquete is the old Cuenca, and other than being slightly more expensive and a bit smaller, it’s still an incredible option and one of the best places to live in the world.
Known as the valley of flowers and eternal spring, Boquete makes its home in the Panama highlands at an elevation of 4,000 feet, which allows it to avoid some of the humidity that can be found in other areas of the country.
Bursting with exotic flora and accented with rainbows that appear frequently as a result of the bajareque (light rainfall that comes down from the mountains with the north wind) the scenic beauty of the surrounding area of Boquete is truly a sight to be savored.
A town of 20,000, but only a 30 minute drive from the Chiriquí capital of David, in Boquete you can relish in the small town life. The downtown area is not the most attractive place in the world, but its good food and ease of living make up for it in spades.
Hike, rock climb, horseback ride, and experience the culture of the local Ngobe-Bugle people as you learn to enjoy what several others have already learned: this is a great place to live.
3) Nosara, Costa Rica
Photo: Jason Ewa
A small town located in the Nicoya Peninsula, on the northwest Pacific coast, Nosara is a well-known surfer’s and Yoga paradise.
Nosara is the highest ranked beach area on the list, and it has a fighting chance to be a contender with all its offerings, but its Achilles Heel is that it can be a little expensive. Comparable to the cost of living in many U.S. towns, Nosara is not for the budget-minded.
People come to Nosara to soak in the small beach town vibe, and with a two and a half hour drive to Liberia, a four hour drive to San Jose and an undeveloped road leading into town, the town remains remote.
Yet, despite its remote location, Nosara is filled with expats who think of this as a benefit. There isn’t much for local culture and Nosara can actually feel like an English-speaking town.
But what Nosara lacks in local culture, it makes up for in natural beauty.
With four miles of white sand beach of Playa Guiones and access to Playa Pelada (a bordering neighborhood of Playa Guiones), for many expats, Nosara is a little slice of heaven.
4) Roatan, Honduras
Photo: Matteo Tarenghi
Not everyone wants to live on an island, but this place is well worth it even with the negative headlines often received by the country of Honduras.
Retire in Roatan, Honduras, and spend each day enjoying the unspoiled beaches and crystal blue ocean without having to worry about the crowds like you do in other parts of Central America.
The largest bay island in Honduras, Roatan is only a 2.5 hour flight from Houston, Texas, making it beautiful, as well as convenient.
And while it isn’t yet choked with tourists and expats, it may not remain a retirement secret for long. In 2011, Island Magazine named Roatan the number one island in the world to retire to and with so many amazing islands out there, that is definitely a bold statement. Because of this it comes as no surprise that many expats consider Roatan to be the best place to live in the world.
There is an established expat community in Roatan and getting residency is quite simple. You can be granted a retirement Visa as long as you can prove an annual income of $1,500 a month, which makes settling down in the paradise of Roatan, a very achievable dream.
5) Granada, Nicaragua
Photo: Soul Surfer
Described by some as one of the world’s best retirement destinations, in Granada, expats can set out the welcome mat in a luxurious and affordable colonial home that would have cost them an arm and a leg back in the states.
In fact, a couple can live well in Granada on a budget of around $1,200 a month.
With temperatures that hover in the 80s throughout the year and the cool breeze that blows in from Lake Cocibolca, the weather in Granada is ideal and definitely a huge draw for many North American expats.
Granada also has one of the safest communities in Nicaragua, around 1,000 expats already living in town and best of all, it will only take a two hour plane ride from Miami, Florida, to make the trip down. The only knock on Granada is that it can be perceived as a little gritty, the streets are not pristine as are other colonial cities of the region. This shouldn’t stop you though, Granada is really good value and not a huge compromise.
6) Ambergris Caye, Belize
Photo: Viv and Jill
Belize is gaining popularity with expats and tourists alike, not only for its tropical rainforests and Caribbean beaches, but also because it’s a democratic and English-speaking nation that is very welcoming of visitors.
You may know already that John MacAfee, the notorious software developer, chose to live here and could have chosen anywhere else in the whole world. (Look it up on Google if you missed this story.)
Ambergris Caye is the largest island in Belize and the island’s only town, San Pedro, is known as the dive and water sport capitol of Belize.
The island is also home to the second largest coral reef system in the world and this magnificent reef lies a half mile east of Ambergris Caye and runs along its entire 25 mile length.
Retirees that come to Ambergris Caye will enjoy the mild climate, the beautiful beach setting and the colorful blend of cultures, from Creole to Mayan, as they kick off their shoes and sink into island living.
7) Lake Atitlan, Guatemala
Photo: Simon and Vickie
Let’s just get this out of the way, I know the lake is polluted but this still doesn’t change the fact that this little town is an awesome place to live. The area is completely unique in terms of what is offered combined with the incredible opportunity to live around an amazing indigenous culture.
The deep basin of Lake Atitlan was the product of one of the strongest volcanic eruptions in history.
This vast, blue body of water is set against a backdrop of three volcanoes and is surrounded by twelve indigenous villages, many of which are still inhabited by the local Maya.
Expats come to Lake Atitlan to get away from it all and with a two and a half hour drive to Guatemala City and Antigua, life in Lake Atitlan can definitely feel tranquil and remote.
Like many areas in Central America, expats coming to Lake Atitlan can expect to live comfortably on a small budget, but with so many villages and each with a different standard of living, prices will fluctuate, so be sure to shop around.
If you choose life on the lake, get ready to enjoy the simple things in life. Take a walk to the local market to stock up on fresh food and hand-made crafts, hike the mountain trails, or simply stretch out in a hammock and watch the sun set on the water.
8) Escazu, Costa Rica
Photo: Alex Centeno
Costa Rica remains, without a doubt, the most popular Central American destination, and for many, it’s considered the best place to live in the world. After one visit to this tropical paradise, it isn’t hard to see why.
This suburb of the capital city, San Jose, can be found tucked in the Central Valley and is the best place to retire in Costa Rica for expats that want every service available.
Encompassed by lush mountain views and several choices for living and eating, Escazu can offer expats the best of both worlds, gorgeous weather, while living in an urban environment.
While Escazu is more expensive than other areas in Costa Rica, it remains cheaper than urban life in North America and a couple can still live comfortably on a budget of around $2,500 a month.
And with a strong expat community and big city amenities like great restaurants, shopping malls, and an excellent and affordable health care system, it’s no wonder many expats are choosing Escazu.
9) San Juan del Sur, Nicaragua
Photo: David Amsler
Because of this popularity, the town has experienced some economic development in recent years and improvements have been made both to the waterfront and to the central park area.
In San Juan del Sur expats can live the beach town life complete with great restaurants, exciting bars and even language schools. There is also a growing alternative scene that does appeal to people who care about the environment and values things like creating your own solar power.
To make your way down to San Juan del Sur, you can hop on a bus from Managua to the municipal markets of Rivas and then board another bus that will take you on to your possible retirement destination. Nicaragua is a very poor country, but don’t let this get in the way of at least exploring it as an option. If you do, you might miss out on something great.
10) Antigua, Guatemala
Photo: Michael Swigart
Picturesque Antigua is a modern city that is rich with history. This 16th century city was founded by Spanish colonists and is filled with colonial style homes and cobblestone streets that simply beckon you to get outside to enjoy the city’s charms.
One hour from Guatemala City, Antigua has a population of 30,000 and while the cost-of-living here might be considered high for Guatemala, the prices are cheap compared to anything you might find in North America of a similar caliber.
Of course, the costs again will vary depending on what you are looking for. While a large, fully restored colonial home near the city center might cost anywhere from a few hundred thousand to a million, there are many lovely smaller homes that can be purchased for under $100,000 or even $50,000.
And with clean, well-preserved streets (the government makes preservation a priority) and no serious crime problem, in Antigua you can feel safe and comfortable as you explore your new home.
11) Panama City, Panama
Photo: WLT
If you like Miami but feel like there are not enough people who speak Spanish, then Panama City could be the perfect solution. With its ultra modern skyline and true metropolitan feel, Panama City offers a unique lifestyle only compared to a Miami Vice breed of Miami.
Hailed as Central America’s most affordable capital city, Panama City is definitely a city on the rise.
With an excellent business climate, Panama is the prime location for expats looking to put their money and live an urban life. Panama’s renowned privacy laws are no doubt a draw for individuals who value privacy but want to live in a very modern city. The established expat community and many expat-run businesses can provide the comforts of home, in a unique and modern tropical setting.
12) Cotacachi, Ecuador
Colleen Taugher
Slow down and live the small town life in Cotacachi, Ecuador, a town of only 9,000 that continues to be relatively undiscovered by expats.
This remote mountain village is hidden between a pair of volcanoes, but is only two hours from busy Quito, Ecuador’s capital city.
In Cotacachi, you will have the unique opportunity to really immerse yourself in the rich culture of the Quichua people, who live side by side with expats and continue to dress in their traditional garb. You can even walk along Lake Cuicocha and witness local Quichua shamans performing cleansing rituals on the serene shores.
Known for hand-crafted leather goods and local markets, Cotacachi is for expats who really want to live and experience authentic Ecuadorian life, but still have a great leather hand bag.
And while there is a medical clinic in town, most residents will make a trip to the nearby towns of Otavolo or Ibarra, or even Quito for any major medical procedures.
13) Playa Papagayo, Costa Rica
Photo: Josie MacDonagh
Bar none, the greatest option for the ultra-wealthy.
In the province of Guanacaste on Costa Rica’s northwest Pacific coast there is a retirement spot that not many know about.
If you are looking to retire in a luxury beach location, the community of Peninsula Papagayo just might be your best option.
This area is the country’s highest profile development and will cover 2,300 acres with 15 miles of coastline.
Currently in Papagayo, there is a Four Seasons Hotel frequented by Brad Pitt, and over 300 condos. Playing 18 holes on the local course has been compared to a life-altering experience.
14) Boca Chica, Panama
Photo: David Curry
If you crave the serenity of island living, without the bustle of large scale beach resorts, look to Boca Chica to find your perfect match.
Boasting some of the most pristine beaches in Central America, Boca Chica can offer retirees many private island settings with a growing expat community that is not yet overly congested with tourists.
Resting against the Pacific Ocean, in Boca Chica you can live out your golden years fishing, snorkeling, scuba diving, and taking advantage of the outstanding national marine park in the near vicinity.
The Chiriquí Gulf National Park is comprised of islands and sea and is filled with white-tip sharks, rays, and sea turtles. You can also visit a white sand, palm-lined beach and expect to see no one else.
15) Canoa, Ecuador
Photo: Patricio Lopetegui
Located along the dry looking northern coast, Canoa, Ecuador is the ideal spot for expats that small town living in place with personality.
Recognized as a water sport hot spot, in Canoa you will spend your days surfing, paragliding, kayaking or simply walking along the stretch of unspoiled shore.
A burgeoning expat community can be found in Canoa (made up of more residents than investors) and the town is steadily continuing to expand as more westerners learn what South Americans already know about this Ecuadorian gem.
The town now has a bilingual elementary school and more expat-run restaurants and businesses, but despite this development, the prices are low and the adventure is high.
So where is the best place to live in the world?
With so many amazing spots to choose from, it might take some time before you make a final decision on the best place to live in the world.
Don’t rush into buying, rent around and test the waters in a couple different areas before settling down for the long haul in your own personal paradise.
Photo: Wesley & Brandon Rosenblum
Crave a small-town mountain lifestyle without the bad weather? Cotacachi, Ecuador might just be the place for you.
In the past few years, Cotacachi, only a two-hour drive north of Quito and nestled in the Ecuador Andes, has become increasingly popular with expats, especially those of retirement age.
Have you visited Cotacachi or live there? We look forward to hearing from you, leave us a comment below!
The Marvelous Canal
The Panama Canal is listed as one of the seven greatest industrial marvels of the modern world. It has a well-deserved reputation. The engineering feat spans across fifty miles. The turn of the century visionaries battled a nearly impenetrable jungle, and an equally unforgiving rain forest, as well as tumultuous mountains. The builders and workers on the canal would face every type of tropical disease imaginable; most particularly yellow fever and malaria. What they accomplished was the most important navigational route in the world for shipping goods from the Atlantic side of the North American Continent to the Pacific.
What Makes the Panama Canal Remarkable
U.S. Navy
The Panama Canal is not the longest canal in the world, nor even in North America. With over three hundred miles in length, the Eerie outstrips it by far. Nor is using a lock system anything new. Locks were used as early as 960 A.D., by the Chinese, and well incorporated into nineteenth century architecture. However, no other canal has had to meet the challenges that went into the construction of the one in Panama.
Prior to the building of the Panama Canal, most canals were built across relatively flat land. The locks developed were used to control the amount of water flow over uneven land or to make a river more easily navigable.
When the construction of the Panama Canal began by France in 1881, the ambition was a sea level canal. Buoyed with confidence by the completion of the Suez Canal, private financiers backed the builder, Ferdinand de Lesseps to begin a similar project in Panama.
Lesseps was completely unprepared for the far more hostile environment. Torrential rains and landslides in the unstable mountains continuously hampered his efforts. Diseases ran rampant. By 1889, France had given up in defeat. During the eight year construction period, it had cost the investors $287,000,000, with an additional loss in human lives at 22,000, including nearly the entire family of the Panama project’s Director General, Jules Dingler. The Panama Canal enterprise had cleared eleven miles.
Crossing the Great Divide
Lesseps’ determination to build a sea level canal was ruled by a flawed logic. He was unfamiliar with North American geology and the Great Divide, which extends up through the Rocky Mountains into Canada.
This is an area where the mountains were formed by two tectonic plates colliding together. His sea level would be a constantly shifting, sliding floor that not only held two separate oceans, but contained two separate plates, sliding, grinding and colliding with each other.
By 1902, when the United States purchased the abandoned canal from France, the world had begun going through some rapid technical and scientific advancements. President Theodore Roosevelt chose John Frank Stevens for his Chief Engineer, a man who advocated using a lock-based system that would raise the ships to the level of the mountains, instead of attempting to dig to sea level.
A New Landscape
Curtis Fry
One of the difficulties Lesseps had encountered was the Chagres Rivers. Influenced by the changing tides and seasonal rains, the winding river resisted the efforts to tame it, flooding without warning, toppling layers of freshly cut work with it. Stevens’ proposal included damming the river and creating a lake as part of the Panama Canal route.
The War on Mosquitos
The crew that landed in Panama in the 1880’s were mystified by the diseases that occupied the region. They suspected it had to do with unsanitary conditions and attempted to keep their dwellings as clean as possible. Yet malaria and yellow fever seemed impervious to cautious lifestyles.
As science entered the twentieth century, so did its knowledge that mosquitos were the carriers of these dreaded diseases. The U.S. crew sent in to begin building the new lock system canal, also came prepared to make war on mosquitos.
Stagnant pools were drained and mosquito infested areas were sprayed. An adequate sewage system was put into the French built town. Netting was placed over all doors and windows. By the time the Panama Canal was built, the disease carrying mosquitos had been eradicated along with malaria and yellow fever.
The Developing Canal
Another advantage of the ushered in new century was a deeper understanding of hydraulics. Steam power was in full gear. A railroad had already been built crossing the strait of Panama, close to the location they wished to build. The work that had begun primarily from manual labor was now made easier with steam shovels and cranes.
If the equipment used was the best the time period had to offer, the technology involved in building the canal was a concept so modern, its ingenuity continues to be admired. The new canal had constructed what was at the time, the world’s largest dam and artificially created lake. Three sets of double locks controlled the water height, with one set raising the vessel eighty feet as it entered Gatún Lake. The locks and dam required four and a half million cubic yards of concrete. The extensive electrical system used to power the locks was one of the earliest complex systems ever used.
The Panama Canal Today
Bruce Tuten
Each day, an average of forty ships pass through the Panama Canal. Four percent of the world’s trade and sixteen percent of the U.S. trade uses the shipping route through Panama.
The flourishing business nurtured a flourishing city. The buildings left by the early French effort to settle in the lush, tropical region, were absorbed by the American workers, who improved and expanded them, added to them, inexorably shaping the settlement into a highly industrial city.
The advanced architecture and technology of the Panama Canal has influenced the development of Panama City. Sleekly modern, its appeal draws businesses, investors, entrepreneurs and international residents.
The Panama Canal also draws a booming industry of tourists. The canal is not only one of the seven engineering wonders of the modern world, it’s beautiful. The sparkling Caribbean waters give way gently to a graceful, winding river, that broadens into the tropical forest setting of the Gatún Lake. Dotted throughout the lake are a number of islands, including the world famous wildlife sanctuary, the Barro Colorado Island.
Future Economic Impact
Traffic through the Panama Canal is so extensive, ships wait in long lines to be cleared for passage. As global industry grapples with the problems of resource demands and economy, ships have grown larger to accommodate global trade more efficiently. Where once a Panamax was the largest ship size to pass through the locks, there are a growing number of larger ships that are forced to take their cargo on the extra nautical miles sailing around Cape Horn.
Panama has begun earnestly on a third shipping lane that will reduce the average waiting period for passage.
The project will not only increase the number and size of the ships passing through its locks, it is expected to increase trade on the U.S. East Coast. Presently, the Post-Panamax ships bypassing the canal are also bypassing East Coast ports, carrying their cargo to the over-crowded Los Angeles ports. The longer journey, and consequent added expense, has added to the price of imported goods, further straining an already distressed economy.
In anticipation of Panama’s expansion plans, scheduled to be completed by 2015, the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey have already spent $800 million on dredging and deepening their ports to accommodate the giant post-Panamax ships, and have authorized an extra billion for raising the Bayonne Bridge fifty feet higher. At present, a fully loaded post-Panamax ship is able to go under the bridge and into the harbor, but once unloaded, would not be able to make it out as it then sits taller in the water.
Sound Management for the Panama Canal
Robert Ciavarro
The government of Panama has already begun to look for new ways to allow vessels to pass through the canal within their scheduled transit time. A new service, called Just In Time, uses Satellite Automatic System technology for tracking vessels within 2,000 nautical miles before arrival to ensure they can arrive at the canal in their scheduled booking time. The trial service is designed to allow vessels more energy efficiency by reducing their waiting period at anchor before beginning their actual canal transit.
An issue that has become critical over recent years is the depleting water resources in Gatún Lake. The current canal loses fresh water each time the locks open during the downward lock cycle. The widened canal design would use water saving devices at each lock, for a total of nine basins, conserving and recycling sixty percent of fresh water use.
Why Panama Is a Solid Investment
Panama’s economic policies have made it the leader among Central American countries. With the canal as its center for trade, the gross domestic product per capita is $11,700. As its major investor, the United States is inexorably tied to the canal, depending on its services to mitigate the rising costs of fuel. Seventy percent of the traffic through the Panama Canal is in vessels from or bound for U.S. shores. It is the quickest route for bringing Asian products to the Pacific waters of commerce.
Although a new canal through Nicaragua and a route through the Northwest Passage have been discussed, and are even on the planning tables of some countries, both regions come with their difficulties. A canal through Nicaragua would be three times the length of the Panama Canal. Although it would utilize the rivers and the enormous Lake Nicaragua, separated by only a narrow strip of land, it would cost approximately 40 billion dollars and take eleven years to build. Opponents to the canal state the consequences to Nicaragua’s delicate environment could be disastrous.
Ownership of the Northwest Passage is still in dispute. The waterway is a journey through a treacherous ocean that is rarely ice free. Beside the human risk, there is risk to a number of endangered species of marine life.
The Practical Choice
The cost of the Panama Canal expansion is approximately $5.35 billion, a sum that will easily realize profit within a few years. The volume of traffic has continued to increase on a yearly basis despite the appearance of Post-Panamax ships. With the new locks in place, it will be able to handle three times its current volume, as well as accommodate larger vessels.
Panama has consistently shown a peaceful international resolve, a strong sense of responsibility toward its environment, and commitment to its people. Its foresight, beginning with the most advanced engineering feat of its time, continues to mark it as a country that forges ahead with practical applications for the future. Because of its skilled management of its affairs, which include economic stability through good stewardship, Panama remains the most practical Central American investment and the hub of maritime travel.
Nosara is famed for its incredible yoga classes, retreats, and teacher trainings, epic surf breaks, and jaw-dropping sunsets. But what else can you do in Nosara? Here is our list of some lesser known, though extremely worthy, things to do when in Nosara, Costa Rica.
Take an Off Road Adventure
Photo: Howling Monkey Adventures
Howling Monkey Adventures leads groups on tours of Nosara’s hidden beaches, jungle wildlife, and mountain terrain… from behind the wheel of a TOMCAR. You drive the vehicle yourself for some adrenaline pumping adventure, along with tour guides who lead you to the best places. Custom tours can be designed for groups, and they provide a wide variety of options.
Nature excursions lead you deep into the jungle to spot howler monkeys and other wildlife, surf tours take you to the best surf spots on the Pacific Coast like Witch’s Rock, Playa Hermosa, and Pavones, and sunset tours go in the mountains for expansive views and night jungle observation.
Go on a Canopy Tour
KP Tice
There is no denying that canopy tours are one of the most popular activities in Costa Rica. Monteverde and Arenal are among the most famous places in the country to fly through the trees on a zipline, but Miss Sky Canopy Tours in Nosara actually has the longest tour of its kind in the world with over 11km of line.
It’s also likely the safest in Costa Rica as all lines are doubled which goes beyond the national safety standards. Enjoy wildlife and sweeping views of waterfalls, rivers, and the ocean while getting some thrills high above ground. The tour includes 21 runs, a stop at a waterfall for a cool swim, and a final stop on the top of a five story building with a disco bar at the top.
Paddle Boarding in Mangroves
ST Flight
The biological diversity of mangrove forests is truly magical. They support marine life by feeding fish with their dried leaves, house land animals like birds and crabs, filter toxins with their roots to protect deep seawater from contamination, and stabilize soil to prevent land erosion.
Nosara is home to many stunning mangroves and stand up paddle board tours make it possible to explore on water at your own pace. Experience Nosara has tours that run along the Rio Montana and Rio Nosara through mangrove tunnels and hidden trails that lead to Playa Nosara. You will spot amazing wildlife while essentially walking on water around the mangrove’s watery perimeter.
Explore the Rio Nosara in a Kayak
Chris Goldberg
Experience one of Costa Rica’s most beautiful rivers deep in the jungle inside of a kayak. Wander through mangroves, observe wildlife, and possibly spot some crocodiles. Guided tours allow you to see animals up close and personal while getting some great exercise. Drifter Kayaking leads 3-4 hour long tours where they take you down the Rio Nosara identifying wildlife along the way.
Help Baby Turtles at the Ostional Turtle Refuge
Liz
Imagine watching thousands, perhaps hundreds of thousands, of baby turtles scamper from their nests towards the ocean as an important right of passage. Year round, turtles come out from the sea to lay their eggs on the sandy shore of Playa Ostional, a couple of miles from Nosara. About a month and a half later the eggs hatch and baby turtles run to the ocean to begin their lives as turtles.
This incredible sight is called an “arribada”. While you can watch turtle nesting year round, the peak season coincides with the rainy season from July to December. Observers can come to simply marvel in the incredible spectacle, or volunteer to help the turtles make it to shore by protecting the hatchlings from vultures and dogs.
The ranger station is open from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. and guided tours are available with park employees. However, the best time to observe is often in the middle of the night between 8 p.m. and 4 a.m. a few days before the new moon. Flash photography is prohibited so stay as the sun comes up. Contact the Asociacion de Desarollo de Ostional for more information.
Take a Nature Walk in the Nosara Biological Reserve
Bob Cotton
Explore the beautiful flora and fauna in the Nosara Biological Reserve on a self-guided hike. On this 35 hectare private reserve on the southern side of the Rio Nosara, it is possible to spot monkeys, coatis, armadillos, deer, wildcats, and 270 species of birds. The hike takes about two hours and early in the morning is the best time for bird sightings.
Lake Chapala is home to an estimated 40,000 expats, with roughly half being from the United States. The region is actually a series of small villages, mostly on the north shore, with Ajijic being the crown jewel of the area in terms of artisans, charm, and amenities.
No matter which you choose to call home, there is a happy hum of activity in the area. What draws so many? Check out a few of the most compelling reasons retirees and families are moving to Lake Chapala:
- The most-developed expat/English infrastructure in Mexico.
- Affordable, top-notch medical care is available.
- Close proximity to a major airport.
- A lower cost of living.
- A sense of a real community.
Some say, Lake Chapala is a one in a million place with everything it offers. Of course, one size doesn’t fit all but if you’re looking for a paradise with a low cost of living, an established English infrastructure and activities, modern amenities, near-perfect climate, and a friendly community, a visit to Lake Chapala might be in order.
With stunning volcanoes, wildlife-covered islands, diverse inhabitants, and mystical rivers, Lake Nicaragua’s expansive waters offer endless exploration for nature and adventure lovers. The unusual history and geography of this lake as well as its plentiful and often endangered wildlife makes it a fascinating place to explore.
History
Patrick Smith
Lake Nicaragua likely played an integral role in Nicaraguan society in previous centuries. It is predicted that indigenous tribes caught fish in the lake and used its freshwater for cleaning and drinking. For centuries this lake has been an important connection between the Caribbean Sea and inland Nicaragua as well as its colonial city of Granada. In fact it is precisely the geography of this lake that led Granada to first be conquered and developed.
However, as transportation transitioned to modern forms, the lake no longer became necessary as a mode of transport. Today the lake maintains its value through its absolute beauty and environmental importance.
Many years ago it is supposed that Lake Nicaragua and Lake Managua formed an ocean bay that eventually became two lakes due to a volcanic eruption. The ocean fish that were trapped in these lakes adapted to freshwater, evidenced by the fact that this lake is the only freshwater lake in the world that contains oceanic animal life.
Geography
The largest freshwater lake in Central America and one of the largest in the world, Lake Nicaragua spans 110 miles in length and an average width of 36 miles with an area of 3,149 square miles. At its deepest points the lake plunges for 200 feet. The water level is at its lowest in the country’s dry season between December and April, and highest during the rainier months of May through October.
The lake feeds over 40 rivers, the largest is the Tipitapa River and the most famous being the San Juan River. The San Juan River connects Lake Nicaragua to the Caribbean Sea along a 112 mile course through dense forest. It also connects Nicaragua with Costa Rica and is separated from the Pacific Ocean to the west by a narrow corridor of only 12 miles.
More than 400 islands dot the lake and 300 sit just beyond Granada. These islands are covered in vegetation and wildlife and some are inhabited and somewhat developed with homes and restaurants.
The largest and most frequented island is Ometepe, which is 16 miles long and 8 miles wide. It was formed by two volcanoes, Concepcion and Madera, which are connected by the lava from numerous eruptions.
Vegetation and Wildlife
Sean Taylor
Lake Nicaragua plays a key role in the ecology of Nicaragua. It houses a vast spectrum of aquatic wildlife and also provides hydration for vegetation located in and around the lake.
The large perimeter supports a variety of climates including moist tropical forest to the south and dry forest to the east, north, and west. Most of the islands and islets are covered in dense vegetation which consists of tropical dry forest.
The tops of Maderas on Ometepe Island and Mombacho which border the lake on land have a highly unique ecosystem. They are the only places in the Pacific region of Nicaragua where cloud forests are present and consequently support impressive flora and fauna.
Thousands of species of wildlife live in and around the lake including birds, plants, and aquatic life. Birds are particularly abundant around the islands and islets but can be found all over the lake. Egrets and herons tend to stay on the waterside while flocks of cormorants can be spotted hunting for fish. Hawks and kites also hunt on the lake.
Over 40 species of fish live in Lake Nicaragua which includes 16 species of cichlids, or angelfish as many of us know them. It was estimated in 1994 that over half of the biomass of the lake consists of angelfish, which are the most popular fish purchased for home aquariums. This species is the most exploited in the lake and their prevalence has dropped significantly.
The most famous marine creature in the lake is the Caribbean bull shark, considered a freshwater shark. Its tolerance for freshwater has enabled it to survive in the San Juan River and travel into Lake Nicaragua. In past centuries the sharks would venture back and forth from the Caribbean sea into the lake however with each generation comes greater adaptation and these sharks began reproducing in the freshwater. They became permanent inhabitants in the San Juan River and in Lake Nicaragua. These sharks are aggressive predators and were feared by local fisherman and lake inhabitants. In response a shark-fin processing plant was built on the San Juan River killing thousands of shark every year. Today few remain, they are considered essentially wiped out, and have become somewhat legendary figures.
Other endangered fish that live in the lake include the big sawfish and the fine-toothed sawfish.
How to Enjoy the Lake
There are many ways to enjoy the splendor of Lake Nicaragua, including checking out the views from nearby volcanic craters, touring the many islands, and sailing down the Rio San Juan.
Marvel at the views at the top of Mombacho
The Mombacho volcano, located less than 10 miles from Granada, offers stunning views of Lake Nicaragua and its many islets. The volcano itself has four craters which are covered with cloud forest. Once atop the volcano it is possible to hike on and around the craters for views and wildlife spotting.
There are many types of trees and plants that are supported by the cloud forest’s humidity as well as howler and white face monkeys, snakes, deer, reptiles, birds, and insects. The volcano also has several endemic species including the Mombacho salamander which can only be found here.
To reach the volcano, one must take a grueling hike or a steep and adventurous jeep ride up to the top. Here you will find a tourist center where maps, photos, and information on the flora and fauna is available. It’s also possible to hire a private guide. The entrance fee and ride to the top costs $15 round trip.
Tour the Islets of Lake Nicaragua
Formed by volcanic activity, the 365 islets of Lake Nicaragua are one of Granada’s main attractions. Views of nearby Mombacho create a dramatic backdrop while exploring the lake.
The islets support an entire community with homes, schools, shops, hotels, and restaurants, using boats as their principal form of transportation. The most famous island is called Monkey Island, covered in indigenous monkeys.
The best way to explore the islands is through private boat tours, which can be arranged at the docks along the lake near Granada. Many private boat operators will take groups on hour-long tours for $15.
It’s also possible to take kayaking excursions for $25 where tour guides lead kayakers past many islets, stopping occasionally to swim, explore islands, and witness wildlife.
Stay on Isla de Ometepe
Frank McMains
Ometepe is one of the top destinations in Nicaragua and for good reason. If the majestic site of two volcanoes in water formed by an isthmus is not enough to entice travelers, it is the largest volcanic island in a freshwater lake in the world, is teeming with wildlife, and is rich in fascinating history.
This island is often called the “Oasis of Peace” and was regarded by ancient indigenous inhabitants as the promised land and a sacred island. Pre-Columbian artifacts cover the island and it is considered one of the great rock art areas in the world with its many petroglyphs and stone idols carved into its basalt boulders. With its ancient Mayan, Nahuatl, and Chorotega roots the island celebrates more religious and folk festivals than anywhere else in Nicaragua.
The volcanic ash yields extremely fertile soil so the land produces abundant crops which is why many sustainable farms, eco hotels, and organic restaurants grace the island.
Ferries leave the mainland from Granada and Rivas to reach Ometepe where one can stay in the many towns and arrange epic volcano hikes, biking excursions, and nature tours.
Boat down the Rio San Juan
Nature and adventure lovers will be enchanted by the epic journey down the San Juan River. Both sides of the river teem with wildlife and nature and hundreds of birds live along the river.
The boat excursion travels the entire length of the river out to the Caribbean into the Indio-Maiz Biological Reserve with its plentiful rainforest and wildlife. It is home to many endangered species including howler, white faced, and spider monkeys, jaguars, giant anteaters, crocodiles, toucans, scarlet macaws, and orchids and butterflies.
You can also take shorter trips to the many port towns along the way. Most boats begin in San Carlos which is accessed by plane or a rather bumpy boat ride from Granada.
Short tours take a few hours and cost around $20 while 12-hour tours that take you to the Indio-Maiz cost $70. Custom multi-day trips can also be designed and are best done with larger groups to lower costs.
The Peaceful Country
The Latin American countries are often associated with periods of intense upheaval, political corruption, and violent revolutions. Progress and democratic process was laborious and only accomplished with enormous struggle. Panama, however, has never had a prolonged period of bloodshed and violence. Its history is one of usually dissolving its disputes by peaceful means and taking a pragmatic look at the future.
Panama’s Early Independence
Formerly a region of Colombia, Panama stated its independence from its mother country in 1903. Its proclamation was stimulated by a three hundred year old dream to build a canal through the narrow isthmus, shortening the journey for inter-continental traffic, and creating a cheaper trade route for the shipping industry. In 1819, the Spanish government formally authorized the building of a canal, but no action was taken, and interest eventually faded.
The French first undertook the project in 1881. After examining a proposal set forth by Ferdinand Marie de Lesseps, the builder of the Suez Canal, the French government authorized the construction of a sea-level canal through Panama and a company to undertake the construction.
For eight years, the company struggled with obstacles they had not previously considered. The Pacific tidal range was twenty feet, whereas the Atlantic range was only one foot. The labor was done by primarily by hand, making navigation slow and cumbersome. Workers were often plagued with malaria, yellow fever, and other tropical diseases. In 1889, they abandoned the project and offered to sell it to the United States.
The Little Rebellion
When the United States accepted the project, it also accepted a commitment to protect the sovereign rights of the Panama people. The initial proposal, presented to the Colombian government, was met with rejection. Already unhappy with their ties to Colombia, the citizens of Panama chose to stage a rebellion and declare themselves an independent country.
It was probably the most bloodless rebellion in history. Siding with the Panama people, the United States blocked rail transportation into Colombia and sent a few warships into the zone. With the jungles of the Darien Strait their only recourse to combating the insurrection, Colombia relinquished its claims to Panama, allowing it to be recognized as an independent country. During the three day blockade, a few shots were fired, but there were no deaths or injuries.
The Beginnings of Economic Stability
The United States compensated France forty million dollars for their abandoned project, and ten million dollars to the Panama government for the right to build a canal on a thirteen mile strip. The preparatory labor included paving the roads, the introduction of screened windows and the installation of city-wide water systems to prevent water stagnation and contamination. Swamps were drained, and insect breeding areas were covered with oil and larvicide. After two years of sanitation efforts, mosquito borne diseases were nearly eliminated. Despite these efforts however, 5,600 workers died of diseases and accidents during the construction phase of the canal.
The canal formally opened on August 15, 1914. The United States had spent 374 million dollars on its construction, including building what was then, the largest dam in the world, a massive, sophisticated electrical system for powering and controlling the flow of water into the locks and spillways, and a number of housing facilities for workers and guards.
An Issue of Ownership
The building of the Panama Canal was a spectacular success. The project was declared one of the seven wonders of the modern world. The city of Panama experienced a quality of life found in few other places within the Central American network. However, by the early 1960’s, many of the Panama citizens felt the United States had profited from their engineering feat long enough and the canal rightfully belonged to Panama. A series of student demonstrations were staged, one of which involved the deaths of twenty Panamanians and three U.S. soldiers.
In 1974, negotiations began for the settlement of the issue. The Torrijos-Carter Treaty was signed in 1977 by U.S. President, Jimmy Carter and Omar Torrijos, the leader of Panama, granting Panama full control over the canal on conditions of neutrality. On December 31, 1999, Panama assumed full command over the waterway. The canal remains one of Panama’s primary sources of revenue.
Panama’s One Black Eye
Panama’s history has been one of diplomacy and negotiation. Its strong ties with the United States have lasted over a hundred years. However, from the civil unrest and rebellion that spread through many of the Central American countries, emerged an ambitious leader. Manuel Antonio Noriega Moreno began his rise to power as a career soldier involved with the CIA. Throughout the 1970’s and 1980’s, he aided U.S. backed guerillas in Nicaragua, and set up listening posts in Panama, despite the canal’s declaration of neutrality.
Noriega’s association with the CIA allowed him to build almost unlimited power within his country as he skillfully manipulated government agencies to support what appeared to be the mutual benefit of both countries. Noriega, however, was skilled at working both sides of the fence.
Although he outwardly supported Panama leader, Omar Torrijos, when Torrijos died in a 1981 plane crash, it was rumored Noriega had planted a bomb.
In 1985, he allowed the first presidential elections in sixteen years to be held in Panama. However, when it became clear he would not win, Noriega halted the count. His opposition still won by a slim margin, although analysts concur that if the votes had all been counted, PRD candidate, Nicolas Ardito Barletta Vallarino would have won by a landslide. In 1989, he was again accused of rigging the elections.
Noriega’s career was embellished with the grisly murders of outspoken opponents, whose deaths were never fully proven to be connected to him. The highly criticized 1989 elections resulted in deteriorating relationships with the U.S., and a statement of war.
On December 20, 1989, the U.S. invaded Panama. Five days later, Noriega surrendered. He was charged with racketeering, money laundering, drug trafficking, and absentee murder.
Panama Today
Panama has recovered from the social conflicts that had once made Central America a hotbed of politics. It is now the fastest growing country in Central America with one of the most robust economies. The conversion to the dollar has favored its energetic growth, with investors from the United States, Canada, and the European Union.
Much of Panama’s growth has been credited to sound business policies, which include a planned expansion of the canal that remains one of Panama’s greatest sources of income, and the Colon Free Zone, which supports national and international commerce, ranging from transportation to commercial activities.
Transportation facilities for Panama include the Pan-American highway, which extends into Alaska, the Caribbean to Pacific highway, six airports, five ocean ports with modernized cargo handling facilities, a trans-isthmus railway and the canal, which annually passes 12,000 merchant ships from 75 different countries.
With more than 120 international banks, Panama has become a crucial regional hub, with a diversified ownership structure, low reliance on wholesale funding and high capital and liquidity rates. Panama’s open policies have made investment easy for both individuals and enterprises.
No other country in Central America has changed so quickly. From a small, struggling region breaking away from its parent country, to an independent voice speaking out for what is best for Panama, it has shown itself to be resilient, imaginative, and creative. An investment in Panama is an investment in a future filled with promises of greater things to come.
Arden
When many expats think of Costa Rica climate, the first thing that comes to mind is tropical. Costa Rica is warm and tropical, and while this is true in many regions of Costa Rica, the climate in this small country is very diverse and varies from region to region.
It may be surprising that such a small country is made up of so many micro-climates, but if you have been planning on making a move down to Costa Rica, it’s good to know a little more about the different climate zones before you commit to a spot.
Costa Rica climate
Costa Rica is located close to the equator and sits between 8°-11° North latitude, providing it with the ideal weather that attracts more expats each year. While the Costa Rica climate is known to be like ‘eternal spring’ with the average temperature ranging between 21.7°C (71°F) and 28°C (81°F), the country’s climate will change drastically as you move throughout the regions, so take the time to experience as many as possible before you take the plunge.
Rainy season vs. dry season
Like many tropical countries, the Costa Rica climate is split into two seasons, rainy and dry. The dry season or summer (named ‘verano’ by Spanish colonizers) generally runs from December to April, while the rainy season or winter (‘invierno’) spans from May to November.
Yet even the dry and rainy season will vary slightly from region to region and the distinct topography of each place will have an influence on the climate.
The sweeping mountain ranges that spread from northwest to southwest split Costa Rica into two regions, the Caribbean slope and the Pacific slope. And the rainy and dry season differs on each slope.
Along the Caribbean slope the rainy season spans from late April through to December while the Pacific slope experiences its rainy season from May to November.
But it doesn’t end there. The climate on each slope will also change according to the region. The Northern portion of the Pacific slope will experience an extreme dry season with little to no rain and the Southern half will have a shorter and less intense dry season.
So now that you know the basics of Costa Rica climate, you can begin to take a closer look at the different climate zones, a factor that will help many expats in choosing the ideal spot to call home.
Central Valley
The Central Valley of Costa Rica, that includes the capital city of San Jose, attracts many expats and tourists with its ‘eternal spring’ climate. But even in the valley the climate will change from warm and dry to chilly and humid depending on which side you choose.
When it comes to Costa Rica climate, it all depends on elevation.
The western suburb of San Jose, Pavas, sits at an elevation of 3, 280 ft. (1000 m), giving it an ideal average temperature of 71°F (22°C), while in the foothills of the Poás Volcano (located on an elevation of 6, 070 ft.) on the opposite side of Central Valley, the average temperature is a much cooler 62°F (17.4°C).
But no matter where you choose to settle, in the Central Valley, you can expect to be greeted with moderate temperatures, clear mornings, and rainy evenings, making it the perfect combination for many expats.
North Pacific
Jarle Naustvik
The gorgeous North Pacific region is the most popular region in Costa Rica due to its warm sunny weather and numerous beaches like Playa Conchal, Playa Ocotal and Playa Coco, to name a few.
Liberia, the capital city of Guanacaste can be found in the North Pacific region and boasts an average temperature of 82°F (28°C), perhaps a little too hot for some expats, but just right for others.
Central Pacific
This region of Costa Rica includes the provinces of Puntarenas and San Jose and is home to many popular expat destinations like Dominical, Uvita and Jaco.
In Puntarenas to the north, it is not uncommon for the daytime high to reach the low 90s and while this may seem a bit on the hot side, the cool breeze coming off the Pacific works wonders to help manage the heat.
South Pacific
real world photos
The South Pacific is home to some of the country’s most diverse landscapes and in this region you can enjoy both mountain ranges and majestic stretches of rainforest, including the Corcovado National Park (home of the world’s only Jaguar reserve).
As a result of this varied topography, the climate in the South Pacific bounces from hot to cold. In some higher areas the temperature can dip as low as 50°F (10°C) making a light jacket a must.
Near the coast, the average temperature remains high year round, from the low 80s to the low 90s, but a more moderate climate can be found in the Valle del General (the general valley) and the temperature here will hover around the high 70s to the low 80s.
Caribbean
Spanning the length of the Caribbean coast, the Caribbean region is quite humid, and here, heavy rainfall can sometimes last for days.
Although it rains throughout the year, you will find drier weather in September and October, which incidentally, are the wettest months in the Central Valley.
Northern Zone
In the Northern Zone, the climate will differ in accordance with the altitude. In the areas that sit at a higher elevation, the temperature can drop to the low sixties, while the lowlands remain in the high seventies to low eighties.
The Northern Zone is also home to the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve, a breathtaking, mist covered forest that has become a popular tourist spot.
So which climate is right for you?
With cool temperatures in the highlands, eternal spring in the Central Valley and heat along the Pacific and Caribbean coasts, the Costa Rica climate is extremely diverse and definitely something all expats should consider.
To make sure that you pick the right region for you, rent before you buy and experience the many different micro-climates Costa Rica has to offer until you find that perfect match and the perfect place to call home.
The tranquil setting of Lake Atitlan, Guatemala, has lured many expats to its shores with the tantalizing combination of a low cost of living, colorful local culture and the laid-back lifestyle that so many of us crave.
J.s. Barrie
Considered by many to be the most picturesque lake in the world, the icy blue basin that is now Lake Atitlan was the product of one of the strongest volcanic eruptions in the planet’s history.
Nestled in the Guatemalan highlands, against a majestic backdrop of three volcanoes, Lake Atitlan can offer expats a taste of authentic Guatemalan life, without the tourist traps that can now be found scattered throughout Central America.
Why Lake Atitlan?
The initial reason that many expats are flocking to Lake Atitlan is simple, serenity and scenic beauty. A little slice of heaven, the 50 square mile lake, mist filled rain forests, and mountainous trails are all the convincing many expats need before deciding to make Lake Atitlan their new home.
Ideal weather
But if they come for the scenic beauty, it’s the year round spring-like climate that often seals the deal.
Positioned 15° above the equator and 1560 meters (5100 feet) above sea level, the climate in Lake Atitlan is never too hot and never too cold. And even during the rainy season, the sun shines almost every day.
Cynthia Lawson
Close to home
Although many expats are dying to get away from the bustle of North American life, it doesn’t necessarily mean that they want to leave it behind all together.
Many expats plan to fly back and forth to visit friends and family, and for Americans, Central America and Lake Atitlan in particular can be the perfect solution. You can live the small mountain town life without having to be completely cut off from the world.
It’s a two and a half hour drive from Lake Atitlan to the colonial town of Antigua and to Guatemala City where international flights arrive on a regular basis.
Low cost of living
There is nothing quite like living in a tropical paradise without having to shell out obscene amounts of money to do so.
The cost of living in Lake Atitlan, like many areas in Central America, is quite moderate and allows expats to enjoy Guatemalan life to the fullest while on a budget.
And depending on what you want to spend and the lifestyle you want to live, Lake Atitlan has plenty of options.
It’s possible to rent a small room in a simplistic indigenous house for as low as $50 a month, and at the opposite end of the spectrum, a luxury vacation rental can cost upwards of $1,500 a week.
But each Lake Atitlan village offers expats a different standard of living and because of this, prices will vary drastically. So before you make a final decision, be sure to shop around.
Villages and local culture
Lake Atitlan is surrounded by twelve indigenous villages, each one unique in its own way. When selecting a village to call home, consider what is most important to you.
If having a stunning view is a top priority, the North and Northeast side of the lake are the most popular, but if you want to be close to as many North American amenities as possible, villages to the West side like Panajachel will most likely be the place for you.
Living side by side, both the local and expat communities are open and friendly and you can expect to make many new and interesting friends as you sink into Lake Atitlan life.
The locals, including the Kakquichel Maya and the Tz’utujil, still dress in traditional colorful garb and if you choose to settle down in Lake Atitlan, you will get to experience Mayan culture on a daily basis.
Visit the market
Make weekly trips to the colorful Solola market near the village of Panajachel for an authentic taste of Mayan culture.
Tuesday and Fridays are market days and you will be able to fill your shopping bags with all the fresh produce, fish, handmade clothing, thread, and fabric you can carry.
The Solola market is not aimed at tourists so you won’t find tourist aimed souvenirs at this market.
And on your way back from the Solola market, why not see what your fellow expats have for sale. Embracing the small town life, many expats sell things like organic chocolate, jewelry and stained glass to make a little extra income. Before you know it, you may find your home decorated with the handmade ceramics, woven crafts, and freshly cut orchids that you pick up each day.
Experience a new way of living
If you do decide to purchase or rent property in Lake Atitlan, get ready to slow down and live the small mountain town life.
In all likelihood you will spend your days enjoying the exotic wildlife, cooking meals made with fresh local ingredients, keeping active by hiking the trails, swimming or practicing yoga, and watching the sunset over the crystal lake.
Time tends to slow down in Lake Atitlan so don’t be surprised if a lot of the big city stresses you bring with you eventually start to melt away.
Luis Guillermo Pineda Rodas
But it’s not for everyone
While days filled with breathtaking scenery, perfect weather, and a low cost of living might seem too good to be true for some expats, others may find that Lake Atitlan life is not for them.
Because Lake Atitlan is in the highlands, two and a half hours from the larger Guatemalan cities, some expats feel too secluded.
If you need to be close to large city amenities and don’t necessarily crave small town living, the villages of Lake Atitlan may not be for you.
Also, Lake Atitlan has not yet been cultivated for tourists like many other spots in Central America and because of this, not all areas are easily accessible.
Much of the lake’s shoreline can only be reached by boat and residents have to rely on the winding footpaths and undeveloped roads to move through the hills.
Trouble in paradise
For decades Lake Atitlan has been renowned for its stunning beauty, but unfortunately in recent years it has been facing some environmental issues that have resulted in many expats moving on to look elsewhere.
In 2009, the clear waters of the lake became brown and murky as a result of an abundance of cyanobacteria that was feeding on the high levels of phosphorous found in the water.
A problem fifty years in the making, the cyanobacteria began to multiply when the Guatemalan government brought black bass into the lake and unknowingly tampered with the ecosystem. The bass ate the organisms that ate the bacteria and the bacteria inevitably increased.
Realizing that something needed to be done in order to keep expats and tourists from abandoning the lake, the government began to work on a $350 million dollar plan to clean up the lake.
Then in 2010, Lake Atitlan experienced a record amount of rain that raised the water level by three meters in a matter of days. Over the next few years, Lake Atitlan raised by an astounding seventeen meters and sadly many home and farms were flooded as a result.
Fortunately today, in 2013, the cyanobacteria have receded and Lake Atitlan is blue once more. And while the water levels are continuing to rise (although at a slower pace), the beauty and serenity of Lake Atitlan continues to attract expats.
Experience Lake Atitlan
So make a trip down to Lake Atitlan and experience it for yourself. Rent before you buy and hop around between the villages to get a good sense of what each has to offer you.
Stroll the mountain paths, visit the local markets, stretch out in a hammock and watch the sunset out over the smooth body of water as you determine if Lake Atitlan life is the life for you.
The Belize 3 Count, where we bring you 3 Belize travel stories that you shouldn’t miss.
Viva Team
1. Travel Channel’s Ultimate Guide to Belize
Belize is gaining attention as a prime travel destination in Central America and has caught the attention of the Travel Channel, who has put its spotlight on Belize, offering up what it describes as the ultimate travel guide to Belize.
2. Want to Learn How to Dive? Think Belize
Dreaming of getting your dive ticket? Looking for a combination of idyllic conditions and reputable dive outfits, Lonely Planet narrowed down the top spots to get certified, and Belize tops its list.
3. Belize Takes Stand to Protect Barrier Reef from Oil Drilling
Belize’s Supreme Court has declared offshore oil drilling contracts issued by the Government of Belize in 2004 and 2007 null and void, halting the government’s immediate effort to allow offshore oil drilling in the Meso American Reef, the world’s second largest barrier reef.
Sam Shall
Expats head down to Central America for the scenic beauty, the year-round spring-like weather and the low cost of living that makes these countries a prime retirement spot.
But now something new is drawing them in, the promise of world class health care at extremely affordable rates. And with such a short commute from Central America to the U.S., what could be better for North American expats?
For many people, choosing to travel overseas to receive medical treatment is basically a no-brainer (especially after the recession) and medical tourism is experiencing a new wave of popularity.
But does quality of Medical Treatment have to be sacrificed?
In short, no, the treatment you receive abroad can be just as good as the treatment you would have received back home and in fact, many expats claim that the treatment they received abroad was superior, with lower costs and shorter waits.
Recognizing the opportunity and getting on board with medical tourism, many of America’s top health care branches are expanding out to include countries that are known to be popular retirement spots and well-known insurers like Blue Cross are putting their own medical tourism programs into action.
So where in Central America can expats find the best health care?
1) Ecuador
First on the list is Ecuador and Cuenca in particular.
According to former U.S. hospital administrator Alex McClellan, Cuenca, Ecuador, may just be the newest medical tourism hot spot. And having worked in the medical tourism industry for years, in countries like Mexico, India, and China, McClellan knows a thing or two about the industry.
In Cuenca, expats can expect to pay around 7-10% of what they would have paid for medical procedures back home, without having to sacrifice quality.
A heart bypass that would cost $130,000 in the U.S., will cost closer to $10,000 in Cuenca and a hip replacement priced at anywhere from $43,000 to $51,000, only $8,000.
With price differences like that, it’s no wonder retirees are looking to Ecuador for the perfect spot to settle down.
2) Mexico
Next up is Mexico. Originally a popular spot for medical tourists due to its close proximity to the United States, Mexico now boasts many great medical facilities like Angeles Health.
The largest private hospital network in the country, Angeles Health has over 23 hospitals, 2,000 beds and 200 operating rooms, all staffed by 11,000 trained health care professionals.
Because of this, Angeles Health has become a sought out spot for medical tourists and the U.S.-based Angeles Health subsidiary is constantly setting up treatments for North American medical tourists.
3) Costa Rica
Already one of the most popular expat destinations in Central America, the high standard of health care that can be accessed in Costa Rica is just icing on the cake for many expats.
In Costa Rica, expats can receive the medical attention they require, in one of the many private accredited hospitals and again, the prices are much, much lower than back in the states; 50-70% lower in fact and the wait time for treatment or surgery is virtually non-existent, something that definitely cannot be said about the U.S.
While cosmetic and dental procedures were the most common medical tourist lures in the past, today many other surgeries and medical treatments are being performed, bringing in even more expats and medical tourists.
4) Panama
Each year, Panama is drawing in more expats with its beaches, weather and excellent business climate, but now, foreigners are coming for the health care system as well.
Many world class health care facilities can be found across Panama, each staffed with medical professionals trained to use the latest technology.
- Clinica Hospital San Fernando: is Panama’s first private hospital and is known for its excellent inpatient pharmacy.
- Centro Medico Paitilla (affiliated with Cleveland Clinic): can be found in the center of Panama City and is a great choice for tertiary care.
- Hospital Punta Pacifica: is a John Hopkins-affiliated hospital and offers exceptional treatment for minimally invasive cardiac surgery, general surgery, neuro-surgery, and urology procedures.
When expats leave North America behind in search of the perfect retirement spot, their Medicare and private health insurance can’t be brought with them.
Fortunately the boom of medical tourism that is rushing through Central America at an incredible rate is making it possible for expats to get quality health care without having to fly back home.
If you are thinking about moving down to Central America, to live out your retirement years in tropical bliss, consider Ecuador, Mexico, Costa Rica, or Panama.
These countries can give you the best of both worlds, the paradise you crave, coupled with the first world medical facilities you need to make you feel safe and comfortable.
Sitting on the northwest coast of Latin America, Ecuador is a gem of a country that has a lot to offer for expats and tourists alike. The country sits right on the equator, which means that the Ecuador climate benefits from a glorious twelve hours of daily sunshine all year round.
Ecuador has a large coastal area, which means that you can expect to see a plethora of stunning beaches and clear waters. The country is also home to two chains of the Andes Mountains and a large area of rainforest, which adds a whole extra dimension to the country’s scenery.
If the sunshine and the scenery aren’t enough to tempt you, what about the cost of living? Ecuador has been named as one of the cheapest countries in the world to live in. If you are thinking about retiring to this part of Latin America, this is brilliant news. It’s estimated that a couple can live very comfortably in Ecuador for less than $2,000 per month.
Because the equator runs right through Ecuador, some of the country is in the southern hemisphere, while some is in the northern. This, along with the different terrains in the country, means that those that are living in one part of the country will have a very different weather experience than those that are living in another.
If you’re deciding which part of Ecuador to visit, either short- or long-term, you’d be wise to make climate part of your decision process. The Ecuador climate is made up of a number of distinct micro climates that separate into four main zones:
- La Costa – Coastal Lowlands
- La Sierra – Andean Mountains
- El Oriente – Amazon Region
- Galapagos Islands
Which of these four zones you choose to visit will have a big impact on what your Ecuadorian trip will look like; as well as how you’ll cope with the weather!
La Costa (Coastal Lowlands)
The area along the coast of Ecuador is referred to as La Costa, or the coastal lowlands. The coast borders onto the Pacific Ocean, and is very beautiful. A particularly great thing about Ecuador’s coastal region is its variety.
If you are looking for beach towns with great night life and varied activities, you have plenty to choose from. Equally, if you’d rather visit a quiet area with unspoilt beaches, Ecuador can offer that too.
It’s in this coastal region of Ecuador that the country’s biggest city is based. Guayaquil is a sea port with a population of around 2.35 million people, which makes it the most populated area in the country. Guayquil is a popular area with tourists, as the heat and the proximity to the coast give it a relaxed, almost Caribbean feel. The city has undergone a great deal of development in recent years, and it now boasts some new parks and museums.
As far as the weather goes, things can get a little hot and humid in the coastal area of Ecuador! Here, the weather is about what you probably expect from the Ecuador climate: truly tropical with temperatures usually between 80 and 90 degrees Fahrenheit. There is a rainy season in this region, which occurs between December and April. During this time, you should expect torrential downpours to disrupt your day!
La Sierra (Andean Mountains)
La Sierra, or the highlands of Ecuador, are situated in the centre of the country. It’s here that you’ll find the two chains of parallel Andes mountains. There are some famous sites to see here, including Chimborazo, which is the highest mountain in the region and an extinct volcano, and Cotopaxi, which has the honor of being the second highest active volcano in the world.
This region of Ecuador has a much cooler climate than other parts of the country. This is due to the altitude of the mountains. You may be interested to know that the snowline in the Ecuadorian mountains is at about 5,000m, which is lower than the snowline in nearby Bolivia and Peru. In other words, if you’re planning a mountain climbing trip: you’ll need to pack some serious cold weather gear!
Ecuador’s capital city of Quito sits in this region, at 9,350 feet above sea level! In fact, Quito is the highest capital city in the world to house the administrative, judicial and legislative functions of its country. The historic center of the city is extremely well-preserved, and many tourists make the trek up to Quito to see it every year. Another draw of the area is a museum and monument that mark the location of the equator, which is known locally as la mitad del mundo, or “the middle of the world.”
If you choose to visit La Sierra, you’ll enjoy warm days and chillier nights. Expect the daily temperature to be around 75 degrees fahrenheit, and the nightly temperature to be around 50. There is little variation in temperature all year round, though there is a rainy season and a non-rainy season. April is the wettest month here, while the dry season is from June to September.
El Oriente (Amazon Region)
Beyond the Andes mountain ranges sits El Oriente, the Amazon region. This lowland rainforest is tropical, and very low lying. This area is made up mainly of wilderness, and much of the area is virtually unexplored. El Oriente is estimated to account for almost half of Ecuador’s land mass, but only around 5% of the country’s population live here.
Despite this, tourism has risen dramatically in this region over recent years. The many rivers in the region are perfect for kayaking and rafting, and as such the area tends to attract some of the more adventurous of Ecuador’s visitors!
The wildlife in El Oriente is another draw for tourists. The variety of birds that live in this region is incredible, and there are many tours and trips that will help you get a glance at them.
This area has the sort of climate you would expect for an equatorial region. It is hot and humid with steady rainfall throughout the year. In fact, it rains during most months here, though it is usually a bit drier in August, December, January, February and March. Just like in the coastal regions, temperatures in this part of Ecuador are normally expected to be between 80 and 90 degrees Fahrenheit.
Galapagos Islands
When you hear about the Galapagos Islands, you probably think about their connection to Charles Darwin. All those years ago, Darwin chose to do so much of his research on the islands because of the large variety of unique species that make their home on the island. Today, the island is still home to that impressive variety of species, and the island is visited by a large number of people every year who want to experience it for themselves.
If you’re planning a trip to the Galapagos Islands, the climate you find there might surprise you. The group of islands sit almost right on the equator, and as such we expect it to be a very hot and humid place. However, this isn’t the case! The cool waters of the Pacific Ocean stop the island from getting too hot, and the climate here is actually very pleasant.
The climate in this part of Ecuador is made up of low rainfall and almost no extremes. The average yearly temperature ranges between 66 and 90 degrees Fahrenheit.
Which climate is right for you?
With four very different micro climates within Ecuador, it can be difficult to decide which one is right for you. Whether you’re deciding which part of Ecuador to visit for a holiday, or whether you’re thinking about settling here for a longer period of time: it’s really important to bear these climates in mind.
However long you plan to stay in Ecuador, climate will have a big impact on your daily life here. It’s important to research this fully before you commit to a region. You may love the sound of the tropical weather in the coastal and rainforest regions of the country, or the spring-like climate of the highlands might be more your thing.
Whichever area you decide is right for you, you can be sure you will have a great time. Ecuador is a country with people and cultures as diverse as its weather, and there are many experiences and adventures to be had there.
And if you get tired of the climate wherever you are? Don’t worry. There’s an old Ecuadorian adage that it’s possible to experience all four seasons in the country in the space of a day: so you won’t be stuck with it for long!