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.
Jessie Harrell
While the decision to relocate to a lush, tropical country may have been an easy choice to make, the process of actually picking the country may be an entirely different story.
With so many amazing countries out there in Central America alone, how can you be confident that you’re making the right selection?
Consider Belize
Sharing a border with Mexico, Guatemala and the Caribbean Sea, the tiny country of Belize has been receiving a lot of attention from expats in recent years. So what does Belize have to offer that has so many people coming back for more?
1. Scenic beauty
Only a fraction, around 20% of Belize’s land is used for human purposes (agriculture and settlements) leaving the rest, natural and unspoiled. Filled with majestic landscapes, waterfalls, archaeological sites and thousands of species of plants and animals, there is always something new to experience in Belize. And because Belize has 174 miles of Caribbean coast line, you can enjoy the beach life and the exotic rainforests all in one day.
Conservation efforts are an important aspect of government policy in Belize and because of this, much of the land and animal life remains protected. Belize is even home to the only jaguar reserve in the world.
2. 2nd largest barrier reef in the world
Belize is known for its marine life, especially the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef. The Mesoamerican Barrier Reef is actually the longest living barrier reef in the western hemisphere and the second largest in the world, after Australia. Belize’s top tourist attraction, people come from around the world each year to swim, snorkel, and scuba dive in this breathtaking, natural wonderland.
3. Slow pace of life
Nicknamed “Belize time”, the pace of life in Belize is significantly slower, and for many expats, it can be a dream come true. Unlike in North America, and many other places in the world, the people in Belize don’t seem to be in such a hurry. Instead, they have a more leisurely attitude towards life and work that is embraced by many expats and a bit of an adjustment for others.
And for an even bigger taste of the Belize laid-back lifestyle, visit Caye Caulker, a 5 mile island off the coast of Belize. One mile west of the barrier reef, you can take a water taxi to the tiny island and spend your time swimming, snorkelling, fishing, or simply relaxing on the beach.
4. The climate
Like most expats, you are probably looking for a place with perfect weather, a place where it’s not too hot and not too cold. Belize definitely fits the bill. With the average year round temperature hovering around 79 degrees F, in Belize the sun shines almost every day. You won’t need a heater in Belize, and for some, air conditioners aren’t even necessary due to the cool Caribbean breeze that comes in off the sea.
5. The people
If the scenery and the climate drew you to Belize, the people will keep you there. Known to be friendly and welcoming, the people in Belize typically don’t put up barriers like people in other places tend to do. If you decide to make the move to Belize, you can expect to make friends with both the locals and fellow expats as you settle in to your new home.
6. English-speaking
Along with being open and welcoming, Belizeans also speak English, making communication that much easier. In fact, Belize is the only English-speaking country in Central America. This is because Belize originated as a British colony called British Honduras before it became a self-governing colony in 1964 and completely independent in 1981.
So don’t worry, in Belize you will be able to communicate with the locals, understand government forms and even read the road signs because it is all in English.
7. Low cost of living
Like most countries in Central America, the cost of living in Belize is quite low. It is estimated that a couple can get by comfortably in Belize for as little as $1000 a month, and if you have more to spend, life in Belize can be even more comfortable.
8. Fresh food
Unlike North American diets that are known to be heavy and often full of processed foods, the food in Belize can be like a breath of fresh air. Many expats claim to have experienced significant weight loss after coming to Belize because of the foods they eat.
In Belize, people typically tend to eat simpler, lighter meals due to the abundance of fresh fish and tropical fruit that they have available.
9. Mayan history
Belize is rich with history and culture that can be experienced on a daily basis if you feel so inclined. In the Maya Mountains and many other areas of Belize, you will have the opportunity to observe Mayan archeological ruins that date back thousands of years.
10. Close to home
While it’s true that many of us dream of moving away to a tropical paradise, it doesn’t mean that we want to isolate ourselves completely from friends and family. Belize offers expats the escape they desire, but with a relatively short commute from the U.S. Feeding out of cities like Dallas, Houston, Miami, and Atlanta, the flight to and from Belize is only a minimal three hours, making it an accessible paradise for North American expats.
Is Belize the place for you?
Vet Lesks
If you are looking to slow down in a tropical climate, surrounded by a welcoming, English speaking community, Belize may be the place to dig in your roots. Plan a visit and soak in all of the aspects of Belizean life, and when the time is right, start searching for your own little piece of paradise to call home.
Ecuador 3 Count, where we bring you 3 Ecuador stories that you shouldn’t miss.
Photo Credit: C. Ramblur
1. Cuenca – the Next Expat Paradise?
In recent years, Cuenca Ecuador has experienced a record number of retirees from parts of the developed world such as the USA and Canada, who are chasing the media coverage praising the country for its beauty and low cost of living. BBC News takes an in-depth look at this boom and the effects upon the Ecuadorian people and culture.
Click to learn more about real estate, cost of living, healthcare, & residency in Cuenca
2. Ecuador Taps into Qatar’s Tourism Potential
Qatar could be a regional hub for South America-bound tourists, Ecuador’s Minister of Tourism Freddy Ehlers has suggested. The delegation presented key tourism offerings of the country such as the Amazon jungles, snow-capped volcanoes of the Andes, beaches along the Pacific coast, and the Galapagos Islands. Ecuador caters to tourists who are looking for adventure, special interest travel, or specialized tourism.
3. Ecuador’s Beaches: Why You Will Want to Pack Your Suntan Lotion
Travelers often go to Ecuador to see the Andes and to straddle the hemisphere. But if your desire is to experience more of the country than the mountains, head to one of Ecuador’s beaches. Depending on which beach you choose, you can find a party, a surfing paradise, or a relaxing escape from the chaos of the city.
Why Invest Offshore
U.S. citizens have always been a little shy about offshore banking, unless they’re in that upper income bracket, moving millions and even billions of dollars around, tucking them away in stable banks and tax shelter havens. Middle class America, with modest portfolios, are more hesitant, and prefer to keep their assets with a local bank, close to home, where they can keep an eye on things.
While the caution is understood, in recent years, many frustrated middle class investors and homeowners have noticed their carefully cultivated portfolios aren’t growing; or worse, are even shrinking.
Traditional Offshore Banking
The first offshore jurisdiction to come to the average person’s mind, is Switzerland. The Union Bank of Switzerland (UBS), located in Basel and Zurich, Switzerland, however, was among the European banks to suffer some of the largest losses during the subprime mortgage crisis, necessitating the general stable banking institution to generate large amounts of capital from outside sources.
Criticizing the enormous world bank’s policy of privacy to its investors, the U.S. government has pressured Switzerland into more information sharing among U.S. account holders, for the purposes of detecting tax evasion. The complaint, which was joined by several countries in the European Union, resulted in more stringent laws concerning U.S. and European deposits. Although Switzerland has agreed to more effective tax cooperation, opening an account in Switzerland can be difficult and expensive.
The power of the Euro faces as much uncertainty as the American dollar, with as many weaknesses in the banking structure. Investment in cargo ships has sent many of the banks reeling. A cargo ship valued at $150 million in 2009, will not fetch more than $40 million now. With the shipping industry going for bust, European banks are facing a potential loss of $350 billion dollars in loans.
Canadian banks are not much different than American banks. While somewhat more stable, growth rate for your investment is slow, interest rates on loans are high, stocks even higher, and the labor market has stalled.
The Japanese yen has crawled back into recession.
The Significance of the Emerging Nations
The BRIC nations; Russia, India, China, and Brazil, have been under the watchful eye of financial advisors and investors for several years. Leading investment banking institutions, such as Goldman Sachs, estimate that the economies of these four nations will be wealthier than most Western countries within fifty years.
Investing in an overseas bank, however, is a major step. It’s always best to visit the country you wish to invest in, and China, India or Russia seem a little extreme to most modest investors. However, Latin America is right next door.
Many of the Latin American countries have changed their policies to a more open and friendly relationship with U.S. citizens wishing to visit or invest in a little south of the border real estate. These once war-conflicted countries have enjoyed increased stability under democratic governments and responsible fiscal policies stimulating a burst in retail growth.
Although Brazil has dominated the economic market, the united efforts of the Central American countries to maintain favorable investment options, has created a surge in real estate options. High end investors led the charge, with interests in a second or third home on a tropical beach, but Central American investment can be started with as little as $1,000.
Panama and The Highlight of Central America
With so many beautiful countries to choose from, it can be difficult to decide which one you want to dedicate to for your offshore investment. They all offer spectacular views, good banking policies and a rich and varied culture. A Panama bank account, however, is one of the most desirable in the world today.
With over 80 international banks, it has been placed among the world’s largest banking sectors. Three of Panama’s banks were featured in the top 1000 world banks for 2012. The leading banks in Panama and their positions are:
- No. 524 Banco General
- No. 663 Banco Latinoamericano de Exportaciones
- No. 789 Banco Nacional de Panama
Living It Up in Panama
Besides an expanded canal that has brought millions of dollars in revenue to the Panama economy and a sophisticated modern city, there are several reasons for its increased popularity. There are no corporate or personal taxes on offshore activity in Panama. You will not be double-taxed on your assets. All income earned outside Panama will not be taxed.
There is no conversion rate to foreign currency, or foreign currency controls. Panama uses the dollar. While Spanish is the primary language, most bank tellers and managers speak English. It offers online banking service, international wire transfer, and check service.
Panama is the top banking center in Central America. Its free market and investment-friendly policies have attracted a wide clientele, from retirees to entrepreneurs, to expats and adventurers.
Panama gives immediate residency to foreigners from 22 countries that maintain friendly, professional, economic and investment relationships with Panama. The United States is listed among these countries. Immediate foreign residents have the right to work in Panama, establish a business and engage in professional and economic activities. After five years of living in Panama, they may apply for full citizenship.
Perhaps one of its greatest advantages is its close proximity to the United States. You do not have to wonder how your offshore assets are doing. You do not have to travel halfway across the world.
If you move to Panama, you do not have to abandon the loved ones you left behind. A short plane trip, a hop on the bus or a drive in the car, and you can visit them, or more likely, they’ll wish to come and visit you!
Panama continues to be the best place to invest in if you’re thinking of an offshore bank. With a stable economy, easy access to your account, as well as a close circumference to the U.S., there simply is no greater advantage than investing in Panama.
Nosara, Costa Rica is becoming increasingly popular among traveling surfers, because of its more laid-back, relaxed atmosphere than its bustling neighbor to the north, Tamarindo, while boasting world class surf almost all year long.
Most surfers visiting Nosara head straight for Playa Guiones, which is, hands down, one of the most consistent breaks in Costa Rica. Playa Guiones is a swell magnet and Punta Guiones (at the South end of the beach) juts farther out into the Pacific than many other points in Costa Rica. Which means Playa Guiones picks up both North and South facing swells bringing surfable waves over 300 days a year.
Like it so much you want to move here? So did others, and the result is a growing expat community. Thankfully, most seem intent on keeping development and over-building to a minimum.
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.
Things are looking good for El Salvador. While it doesn’t make the list as potential places to live for most expats, this small country is on the rise. With a sound economy, reasonable tax rates, and some of the best surf breaks in Central America, it’s worth checking out.
Here are our top 6 locations to get you started.
1. Colonia San Benito District Three, San Salvador
San Benito is your choice for colonial inspired living inside the capital, San Salvador.
Photo Credit: Marlan Flores
2. Playa El Tunco, Pacific Coast
A beach front home and your surfboard await in El Tunco.
Photo Credit: R. Rea
3. Santa Ana, Central Region
Santa Ana is city life without the congestion.
Photo Credit: Mike Butler
4. Suchitoto, Central Region
Suchitoto is a sleepy colonial town, perfect for lazy afternoons in your hammock.
Photo Credit: Adalberto.H.Vega
5. Juayua, Mountain Region
With its cool mountain climate and small town town life, Juayua is a good choice.
Photo Credit: Garrett Ziegler
6. Playa el Cocal, Pacific Coast
Want a surfer’s life? Then there is no other place to live but at Playa el Cocal, where you have daily access to el Salvador’s famous surf break, Punta Roca.
Photo Credit: Pedruca
Have a favorite spot in El Salvador? Let us know in the comments section below.
Joshua Berman
Living next door to tourism giant Costa Rica and the up-and-coming Panama, and due to the common misconception that Nicaragua is still unsafe for tourists, this little country hasn’t been receiving the attention it deserves when it comes to expats.
While it is true that Nicaragua has been getting more attention in recent years, having been featured on the covers of some travel magazines, Nicaragua remains one of Central America’s least visited countries.
But according to Jennifer Taylor-Jones, the Vice President of Product Development at JetSet Vacations, this somewhat forgotten Central American gem just might be stepping into the limelight.
Why Nicaragua?
As expats continue to look towards Central America as a possible place for retirement, many are searching for the next big thing, and in 2013, Nicaragua just might be that thing.
Tucked between Honduras to the north and Costa Rica to the south, Nicaragua was not always the expat friendly, land-of-plenty that it is today.
So what is it about Nicaragua today that is drawing expats in?
A sense of discovery
Many are coming to Nicaragua to get away from heavily tourist concentrated areas. They like the idea that Nicaragua is still relatively unknown and that it has not yet been pegged as a tourist hotspot, a definite negative attribute to those seeking peace and serenity.
The wonderful aspects of Nicaragua have not yet been revealed to the public on a global scale and in a way, it can be theirs to discover.
But although expats want to go somewhere new, they still want to go somewhere that is safe and expat friendly. Today, Nicaragua fits both criteria.
Why now?
In recent years, Nicaraguan officials have been nominating significant funds in attempt to attract North Americans to their country. The end goal is to make Nicaragua the third most visited country in Central America behind Costa Rica and Panama.
Much of this money will go towards helping outsiders learn more about Nicaragua by educating them on the country’s current political and economical state, factors that have made tourists and expats wary about Nicaragua in the past.
In fact, according to a report published by the Financial Times, Nicaragua ranked third after Montreal and Toronto in the category of Strategy for Attracting Foreign Direct Investment.
And changes are being made. One expat lived in Nicaragua in 2007, and during that time, claimed that the road connecting San Juan del Sur to the Pan American highway was nearly un-drivable due to massive potholes. When she returned on a recent visit, she was welcomed by a smooth stretch of maintained pavement in place of the ripped up road.
Aside from the improved roads, she was also pleasantly surprised to find internet access across the country and that the capital city of Managua had expanded into an urban metropolis with everything and anything an expat could possibly need.
So what can an expat coming to Nicaragua for the first time expect today?
san-juan-del-sur-psd photogrpahy
Perfect weather, beautiful beaches free of colossal resorts, towering volcanoes (including the still active Masaya volcano), Lake Nicaragua (the largest lake in Central America), surfing town San Juan del Sur, and colonial cities like Leon and Granada.
And best of all, it won’t cost an arm and a leg to experience all that Nicaragua has to offer.
Budget friendly
Like many other Central American countries, the cost of living in Nicaragua is low and this is an obvious perk to any expat looking to retire on a budget.
Real estate in Nicaragua is extremely affordable. A colonial home in the city of Granada can be purchased for under $50,000.
Renting is also affordable, but of course prices will fluctuate depending on where in Nicaragua you choose to live. In San Juan, a relatively touristy area for Nicaragua, a 1-2 bedroom apartment can cost between $250-$600 a month, although, as the price goes up, things like utilities, internet, cable, and housekeeping are often included.
Covering rent, utilities, cable/internet, groceries, and entertainment, a couple could live comfortably in Nicaragua for around $1,200 a month, a meager amount when compared to prices back home.
On the other hand, a couple could live a simple life on as little as $750 a month and a life of luxury, including a spacious house and a maid, for around $2000.
Get there before the crowds do
As Nicaragua continues to gain recognition, it won’t remain unknown for long. If you have been thinking about heading to Central America, consider Nicaragua, the favored hot spot for expats in 2013. With all of the wonders of Central America, an exceptionally low cost of living, and a portion of the crowds, Nicaragua is the perfect spot to relax and live the laid back lifestyle that we all crave.
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.
Greg Gilliam is an expat who started his odyssey by driving through Central America on a extended vacation. He found his paradise when he eventually arrived at Canoa Ecuador on the Pacific coast, where he became an expat.
What he has done since then is nothing short of amazing. Putting his architectural design skills to work, he began eventually creating his own hotel, The Canoa Beach Hotel. The following is interview with him over email.
Photo Credit: Greg Gilliam
1. Why did you leave the U.S.?
I left the states just on a brief vacation and quickly discovered that I knew relatively very little about Latin America and its cultures. I could not even think of going back when I came to the end of the road in Panama and I was so determined to continue with my discovery of Latin America, that I hopped on a sailboat and headed for Ecuador.
Not long after I arrived in Ecuador, I found myself designing and building some really cool stuff and best of all, I was unchecked by the appraisal/refinance monster that rides herd over creativity in the U.S. Housing market.
Here, in Ecuador, I found I had complete freedom in design and for the first time in my life I was, and still am, really excited about designing and building.
2. What were some of your favorite stops on the way down?
There were many places on the drive which were very special; one was Colima, Mexico. The people in Colima are by far some of the most hospitable I have ever found in my travels. They made it a great trip.
My brother and I were camped for a few weeks at an old airport turned into a dragstrip. We decided to have a little party for all the friends we had made while in Colima and invited everyone we could get in contact with and told them to come to the airport, where I thought we’d drink a few beers and eat a few snacks while we said our goodbyes.
Two hours passed and no one had shown up for our party and my brother and I were beginning to wonder what had went wrong, when suddenly our party guests arrived with what looked like the whole town in tow. I mean at least 100 people, all bringing food and drinks.
It took us another two more days to actually be able to leave Colima.
3. Where did you end up at the end of your drive?
Panama is another of the places with many nice people and a culture that has been created by the canal. Panamanians are easily some of the most resourceful people you will ever meet. I think they can tackle just about anything and everything.
In Panama City there is a very strong international culture, which lies only a few miles from a beautiful rural culture full of hardworking respectful people.
We were politely surprised once, when in gringo Spanish and really bad charades, hoping to get a band-aid, the guy behind the counter at a country tienda said in perfect English “You boys ain’t from around here are ya?” and then proceeded to wow us with tales of taxi driving in New York City and how this little store was what he wanted to do in his retirement.
Photo Credit: Canoa Beach Hotel
4. What are you doing now?
I became involved with a local architect, a great one, named Antonio Naranjo, who along with Enne Arquitectos have founded the green building council in Ecuador.
Once again, I am totally loving life. We just finished designing and building the Canoa Beach Hotel.
We are excited for the way it has become a haven of relaxation for my building clients, and as a popular spot for tourists. At Canoa Beach Hotel guests can experience firsthand my take on sustainable architecture. It is also a great springboard for our new project, , where we are building condominiums on the same beach, Senderos.
It is a novel project in design and functionality, while keeping the same organic randomness that I believe comforts us so much about nature.
Photo Credit: Greg Gilian
5. What advice can you give someone who wants to build a dream home in Ecuador or even Canoa Ecuador?
If you want to build a dream home in Ecuador, I highly recommend first finding your dream location, and there are plenty. But before you leap into that place, rent in the area you like, and make sure you are still enamored with it 3 months later.
There are many qualified architects and builders in Ecuador, but due diligence is key to your success, so call their references and look at their projects, especially the older ones.
Most importantly really collaborate with your architect and create something that is really you, this is your dream home, to me, building is all about making your personal statement. This is sorta how I roll.
I love Ecuador. For many reasons, but it is hard to pick just one. The Ecuadorian people are great, especially if you take time to learn the language and the culture, but don’t confine your experience to a few expat locations.
In Ecuador you certainly will never be bored, but and as anywhere in the world, there are stories of bad deals, crime, and any number of the negative behaviors that trouble every place on the planet, so be smart and respectful, and you just might find that Ecuador is a dream place to live.
Lee Zelter knows Boquete, Panama. It’s almost as if it’s in his blood. His blog Boquete Guide is a must read for those who are considering the move to Boquete or for those who have already made the jump.
Viva Tropical took a moment with Lee to dig a bit deeper into his reasons for calling Panama home for the past 7 years. His answers might just surprise you.
Photo Credit: Sky and Zak
Why did you choose to move to Panama and specifically Boquete?
We researched for several years while waiting for our youngest to finish high school. We visited Europe, Mexico, Costa Rica and last Panama. We decided on Panama for several reasons.
Cost of living was lower than Europe and the U.S. Mexico was getting too violent. Costa Rica was a boat we missed and crime was heading up as an anti-gringo attitude was developing.
The pluses of Panama were that in a time when the dollar was falling against other currencies, Panama used dollars so we would not be hurt by varying exchange rates. Panama has a hundred years of U.S. involvement and to Panamanians Americans are nothing new.
Gringo is a description not a swear word here. We loved the temperate climate and relative isolation of Boquete. It was time to leave city life and try something new.
There was a significant English-speaking international community in Boquete which made for an easy integration. My wife lasted 18 months, it was too much of a change for her. I stayed and love it here.
How long have you lived there?
Seven years in August 2013
Where where you living previously?
Tucson, AZ, U.S.
What do you do with your time?
I work online, write online and play online. I also travel extensively in South and Central America.
What surprised you when you first came to Boquete/Panama?
How many shades of green exist!
What advice can you give someone who is thinking about moving to Boquete/Panama?
Learn Spanish first, leave your preconceived attitudes at home and do not check your brains at the airport. This is a different world.
Anything else you’d like to say?
I have much more about the entire experience at this link. The entire Panamania series reflects the move, transition and experience.
The Costa Rica 3 Count, where we bring you 3 Costa Rica stories that you shouldn’t miss.
Photo Credit: Berny Mills
1. Border Crossing Mistakes (and Why They Make You Look Dumb)
Walking across a land border seems like you’re entering into a no-man’s-land of confusion. At an airport, VIPs enter and zoom through in blackened sedans, but when you walk across a frontier, especially in a developing country, you get a window into how ordinary people and traders travel. Such is the case when crossing on foot from Costa Rica to Nicaragua.
2. Costa Rica Hotels are King in Sustainability
Costa Rica is leading a growing trend of low-carbon to no-carbon footprint hotels. Currently there are 29 hotels labeled as “five leaves,” Costa Rica’s distinction of sustainability, which means these hotels ensure their operations are at a near zero environmental impact.
3. You Don’t Have to Give Up Your Golf Game When Moving to Costa Rica
If you want to become an expat in Central America, rejoice, you don’t give up your golf game when you move. Golf is blossoming in such far-flung, but expat-friendly, locations as Nicaragua, Honduras, and Costa Rica.