Get more information on life in Costa Rica by reading our Expat's Arrivals Costa Rica Guide or reading more expat experiences.
About Jenna
A: Santa Teresa, Nicoya Peninsula, Costa Rica
A: A few weeks ago, but I have been living in Costa Rica for two years!
A: Alone!
A: I moved for the better life. I love living in near the ocean, near the mountains and amidst the tropics! The air is so good. And the surfing is wonderful!
Living abroad
A: I enjoy surfing in the ocean every morning. Nothing feels better than waking up on the waves! I would rate the quality of life as much higher! No traffic, no pollution, smaller community, and less commercial development. AHHH :)
A: Healthcare is not very modern. One must go into the capital, San Jose to get quality health care. However for minor health concerns the local health care is acceptable. I have not had sufficient experience to comment further.
A: Theft! Armed robberies are not very common, but recently arson has been on the rise in a popular beach town nearby, Tamarindo. Other than that you just must be careful when going to the beach or walking around town, if it can be stolen, it will be.
A: Houses, cabins, and rooms are available to rent. Housing is plentiful. Everyone can find something to fit their budget. Don’t expect anything super modern, but there is something for everyone!
A: I would say Playa Jaco is very popular among other expats as it is more American. One can find all the restaurants, bars, and activities they want here. Also it is not too far from the capital city San Jose and near many other national parks, beaches, and nice hiking trails!
Meeting people and making friends
Q: Was it easy meeting people and making friends? How did you go about meeting new people?
A: I think people are very friendly here, whether it be the bar scene or surfing, you will likely be approached by friendly travellers or curious locals interested in getting to know you.
A: I would say most of my friends here are expats, but not necessarily from the USA. I have friends from Venezuela, Jamaica, Colombia, and Australia. I also have local friends too. This is an easy place to make friends. If you are lonely all you have to do is leave your house!
About working in Costa Rica
A: I technically do not have one. It is pretty difficult to legally obtain a work permit here because the government wants their own citizens in priority for the jobs.
A: From my experience of working at the surf shop, the work atmosphere is so much more relaxed and casual. There is less professionalism here, and I mean that in a good way. I think people see other here primarily as friends, then as business partners. It's a very warm culture.
Family and children
A: My partner lives abroad, too, but in another country. The specific challenge is that his business is in Iran and cannot live there.
And finally…
A: Watch out for mosquitos here. Mosquitos have been known to be infected with not only the Dengue virus, but Zika, too.
~ Interviewed in April 2016