rendrag
American expat in Costa Rica
Forum posts
76
Contacts
2
About me
American
Lives in Golfito
Speaks spanglish
Registration: 18 April 2011
Looking for a calm, safe, semi-rural area in CR by holisticdoc
I was told by a retiree pal who has traveled extensively throughout Costa Rica. She tells me that the best places in CR are Punta Morales, Turrialba, Nicoya or Agua Buena. I am unsure about her favorite selections. By the way, isn't ...
One thing that surprised me about Tico construction was the fact they don't use cheap romex here. All they wiring I have seen, and had my crews install are individual wire in conduit. All of the house plans I have used and seen, call for that ... Read More
How to purchase items from Costa Rica online by Durphym
I have just spent almost an hour in an online chat with Aeropost. Given that Amazon has a distribution center in San Jose, I thought that I could buy items from within CR online and have them shipped to my Correos address. Well, I found today that ...
Always receive my mail for the last 14 years anyway. I know all the people in the Post Office, and treat them with respect. Read More
Shipping Vehicle to CR by meliiv
Thanks for all the great information so far. I'm considering shipping my vehicle from NJ (live in MD currently). The rates are reasonable and you can stuff the car with personal belongings for less than $200 more. Question is...how much will CR ...
Hola Meliiv, Whether or not to import or purchase here is a matter of opinion. My belief is that if you've been here a while, can speak espanol fairly well and have a good mechanic that you can trust, then I would purchase it here. From ... Read More
Keeping in touch while living in Costa Rica by Priscilla
Hello everyone, What are the best ways you've found for keeping in touch with friends and family back home while living in Costa Rica? How frequently do you stay in touch with loved ones? Are there local equivalents to common instant messaging ...
Smoke signals and tin cans and string. Read More
Iphone
Does anyone know where I can get a new iphone 7 unlocked? Read More
Costa Rica's most expensive cities by Priscilla
Hello everyone, What are the most expensive cities to live in Costa Rica? What are the costs of things such as rent, utilities, weekly groceries, dining out, etc.? What is the lifestyle like in these cities, for expats and locals? What are ...
Samramon, do you think inspecting cars in the US is a government service? You sure seem to not be happy here at all. BTW, are you from Omaha? Read More
Costa Rica's most expensive cities by Priscilla
Hello everyone, What are the most expensive cities to live in Costa Rica? What are the costs of things such as rent, utilities, weekly groceries, dining out, etc.? What is the lifestyle like in these cities, for expats and locals? What are ...
Please explain what you mean by this.................. RTV makes you fix stuff that one wouldn't need to fix in the USA. Read More
Travel in Costa Rica by Aroma1
My husband and myself are arriving at San Jose airport on 11th April 2018 and leaving on 25th April. To explore and see if we likeCosta Rica as we are looking to relocate to in a couple of years time if we like your country and it suits us as far ...
Ticos drive like maniacs and don't obey the rules of the road (not even sure they KNOW them). This Samramon is a false statement. If you want to condemn all the people of Costa Rica, keep lying. Remember you are a guest here. Read More
Travel in Costa Rica by Aroma1
My husband and myself are arriving at San Jose airport on 11th April 2018 and leaving on 25th April. To explore and see if we likeCosta Rica as we are looking to relocate to in a couple of years time if we like your country and it suits us as far ...
Samramon, Is the word "some" in your vocabulary? Read More
What to expect when moving to Costa Rica by Priscilla
Hello everyone, Is there anything you wish you had known before moving to Costa Rica? For example, transportation, internet speeds, types of housing, aspects of the culture or social life. In your opinion, what's the most important thing to ...
They can ship to your local post office. Read More
What to expect when moving to Costa Rica by Priscilla
Hello everyone, Is there anything you wish you had known before moving to Costa Rica? For example, transportation, internet speeds, types of housing, aspects of the culture or social life. In your opinion, what's the most important thing to ...
Even basics like stainless steel pans and non-stick cookware, coffee machines, toaster ovens... They have them here but they're more costly and not as good quality as what you can get in the U.S.. And no, you can't order via Amazon here. ... Read More
Bringing a hand gun to Costa Rica by sporto505
This is posted May 9, 2016. I recently attempted to bring a hand gun with me to Costa Rica. I have been living in the San Jose metro area for over a year. I was back home for a month and decided I should bring a pistol with me to keep in my ...
Make sure you get permission from MINAET before you cut any trees. Read More
Is it a bit like North Norfolk? by Shortcross
Hello Strange subject header, I know. And apologies for the long post. I was hoping for some advice. I've spent days browsing the forum and have learned a lot, but I've now got 'analysis paralysis' and have totally confused myself, ...
I did think about trying the 'permanent tourist' thing, but read that immigration are stamping down on that now. Shame, as that would have been the perfect way to 'try out' CR........................This has been said to the 13 years ... Read More
Tico time by GinnyP
What can people tell us about this phrase? I've been told that things get done on "Tico Time" if that means monyada or tomorrow there. May be a problem with buildings - homes being done on time. What do you guys think of those? Ginnyp
1 leg of 110v will power your small house. I assume your water heater is 220v. If thats all you were missing for 5 days, wow, what a hardship. FYI, I haven't had hot water in 13 years. Read More
Newby, Lake Arenal region by Sharlyn828
I have just started my major research on Costa Rica. I was seriously thing about Panama but I don't think it is the right fit for me. I am most interested in the Lake Arenal region. I have read many articals and I feel This is the right fit ...
To live here long term, legally you are required to apply for residency which as a Pensionado calls for a minimum 'guaranteed for life' pension of US$1000 per month, although in my opinion it is not enough to live ... Read More
Giving Birth in Costa Rica; implications for the parents by FloraFauna
When non-nationals give birth in Costa Rica... what implications does this have for the nationality of the baby and immigration possibilities for the parents? Does it make it easier to get residency? Any help appreciated!
They can live as tourist before applying for citizenship, without the caja. "There is no financial information required as the parent of a CR citizen, however it is mandatory that you sign up for the CAJA socialized health care ... Read More
Giving Birth in Costa Rica; implications for the parents by FloraFauna
When non-nationals give birth in Costa Rica... what implications does this have for the nationality of the baby and immigration possibilities for the parents? Does it make it easier to get residency? Any help appreciated!
It is not mandatory for a Costa Rica Citizen to sign up for caja. Read More
Bringing a hand gun to Costa Rica by sporto505
This is posted May 9, 2016. I recently attempted to bring a hand gun with me to Costa Rica. I have been living in the San Jose metro area for over a year. I was back home for a month and decided I should bring a pistol with me to keep in my ...
FYI Expat Dave, The Scarlet Macaw is not on the endangered list. Read More
Moving to Costa Rica from Toronto by LimitlessX
Hey guys, Glad to be here. I'm new to this forum, and from Toronto, planning to move to CR to start a new lifestyle in this beautiful place. Just need some words of advice from you guys who have been there for a long time. [b]Is it a good ...
Here's some strange news: I just read that the new corporation tax - which has to be paid for 2016 apparently even though it was judged unconstitutional in 2015, but has been re-instated somehow, in retro - according to what someone told me - ... Read More
Petition to help future residents of Costa Rica by samramon
Hi, mods - I hope this is okay to post here. If not please delete it and accept my apology. There is currently a new petition to change the law requiring people in the process of getting legal residency to leave the country every 90 days to renew ...
The key word in your comment is California. Read More
Petition to help future residents of Costa Rica by samramon
Hi, mods - I hope this is okay to post here. If not please delete it and accept my apology. There is currently a new petition to change the law requiring people in the process of getting legal residency to leave the country every 90 days to renew ...
I said Costa Rica doesn't care. Did not mention Ticos. Imagine what would happen in the US, if a bunch of Mexican immigrants wanted to change a "stoopid" law. Read More
Petition to help future residents of Costa Rica by samramon
Hi, mods - I hope this is okay to post here. If not please delete it and accept my apology. There is currently a new petition to change the law requiring people in the process of getting legal residency to leave the country every 90 days to renew ...
I am not being a hater. You will not be heard. If you want a voice, become a citizen and vote. Read More
Petition to help future residents of Costa Rica by samramon
Hi, mods - I hope this is okay to post here. If not please delete it and accept my apology. There is currently a new petition to change the law requiring people in the process of getting legal residency to leave the country every 90 days to renew ...
Trying to get residency in a country that has "STOOPID" requirements, seems a little strange. FYI, Costa Rica doesn't care what you think. Read More
Environmental protection in Costa Rica by Kenjee
Hi, Environmental protection is a challenging issue for all the countries around the world. Would you say this issue is deemed of significance in Costa Rica? Is the country going green through initiatives like waste management and selective ...
They did, many years ago. Read More
Can I only drive in Costa Rica for 90 days by Coloradomike
Before I come down to Costa Rica, do I have to get a Visa? Can I only drive in Costa Rica for 90 days with my USA drivers license? I was planning on purchasing a vehicle when I get there.
The penalty for driving on an expired license is 50,000 colones. Read More
"best" way to ship some furniture from US to CR by lafdbuf
Hi, I purchased a home in Esterillos Oeste Costa Rica in September. Now looking for "best" way to ship some furniture from US to CR. Looking for least expensive and least tax way to do it. Thx, Howard
Used furniture is not heavily taxed. Read More
Working as a freelancer in Costa Rica by Kenjee
Hi, A lot of expats dream of becoming self-employed: we would like to help you to make that dream come true. Can foreigners work as self-employed in Costa Rica? What are the formalities to work as a freelancer? What are the pros and cons ...
You are not required to apply for residency to live here. Read More
Car insurance by Rickyracer28
Any advice on getting car insurance? We will be getting a used suv and will be looking at liability insurance. We don't plan on driving a lot. We will be on the Carribean side of CR if that makes a difference.
Liability comes with the yearly marchamo. Read More
Stove propane setup by cameronsmith
Hi! I have been living in CR for a little over a year and would love to ship over my propane Viking stove from California. The problem is, I don't want to send it all this way without knowing if and how it can connect to the portable propane ...
I beg to differ, I just had my argon tank hydro tested for the second time. Read More
Costa Rican cuisine by Priscilla
Hi, When living abroad, tasting the local cuisine is part of discovering the country. What is your favorite food in Costa Rica? What is the local speciality? Share with us the local tastes of Costa Rica and why not your best ...
It is true, Costa Rica is not known for it's food. Has anyone ever seen a chicken eat grass? That's a new one for me. Read More
exporting car from Costa Rica to USA by johnnie17
I have a car in the Dominical area that I would like to bring to USA. I've thought about driving (dangerous right now in Mexico) shipping or overland car transporting. I'd like the least expensive and safe way. Suggestions & contact infomation ...
Many cars available here are not available in the U.S. Example, Toyota BJ40 Land Cruiser. Read More
Medical / Handicap concerns by dominic135
My son and I have been considering the expat life in CR. I'm 63 and mobile, though I do take medications. My 29 yr old son however is a paraplegic. He is in a self propelled wheel chair. One of our concerns is wheel chair access in public. We ...
Costa Rica has disabled people too. Read More
Safety in Costa Rica by Christine
Hi, We would like to talk about a sensitive but important topic: do you feel safe in Costa Rica? How would you define the level of safety in the country? Can you walk safely during the day and at night without any fear? Do you think ...
Buckshot doesn't kill? Go ahead and shoot someone and find out. Read More
Sending household items to Costa Rica from USA by samramon
Anyone do this? I'm not talking about a shipping container as we aren't shipping that much stuff. What we are interested in shipping is maybe 4-6 boxes maybe 24"x24" of some household stuff like our favorite blender, nutribullet, ...
Some expats try to save money by living outside the rules. They shun immigration requirements and become illegal or what are known as perpetual tourists. Since when is it illegal to be a tourist. Read More
Where can I find recent Resident Visa requirements in english by Symmetry01
I went to the costa rican embassy website and the document listing the requirements was in spanish only. Where can i find the requirements and steps in plain english?
Tell when it became illegal to be a tourist Paul Baker? Read More
Cost of living in Costa Rica 聳 2015 by expat.com
Hi all, We invite you to talk about the cost of living in Costa Rica in 2015, with an updated price listing. Don't forget to mention in which city of Costa Rica you are living in. How much does it cost to live in Costa Rica? > ...
Unless the electric goes out too. Best to have an elevated tank. Read More
info on everyday living in costa rica please by flashingblade
Hello to everyone. I shall be moving to Costa Rica or Honduras this time next year. I would love any info on either country please. I've read the government websites and tourist brochures but id like to have some contacts on the ground who know ...
Yes most marinas offer "live aboard". All it takes is electricity and water. But, slips a very expensive. Yes boats are expensive and $42K is a bit slim, but can b done. A 30' sailboat could easily fit in that budget. Read More
costa rica requires health insurance by gwirfs
What if a person already has international medical coverage myself? I am federal retired employee of USA--so i have blue shield international medical coverage. So one is required to buy costa rica health insurance--but if already have own medical ...
I to had a Caja Dr. prescribe medicine for me that is not available in Costa Rica. But, he also told me it was available in Panama. Since I live 30 minutes from the border, it's not a problem. Read More
"Border hopping" by jordan6223
Been reading a lot lately about "border hopping" (renewing your visa after 90 days) The Panama border security seems to be very difficult at this moment, you need to be able to show them $500,00 + a ticket to wherever you came from. Personally I ...
There is no crack down. Read More
To work as beauty therapist/rent salon or beauty room. Any advice?? by Rosangeli
Thank you, I am interested moving to Costa Rica this summer. I have monthly income and would like to work as beauty therapist/rent salon or beauty room. Any advice ??
Maybe if you could get to the point rather than dancing around the edges with sarcasm, I could understand you. Lapalmaman48 is not a cheerleader for CR as you are, but he does live here unlike you. Read More
To work as beauty therapist/rent salon or beauty room. Any advice?? by Rosangeli
Thank you, I am interested moving to Costa Rica this summer. I have monthly income and would like to work as beauty therapist/rent salon or beauty room. Any advice ??
And why is it that you personally applaud Juliens action? Did you bother to read Lapalmaman48 profile? I don't agree with his decision at all. All you have to do is look at what Islam is doing to Juliens country. I guess being politically correct is ... Read More
To work as beauty therapist/rent salon or beauty room. Any advice?? by Rosangeli
Thank you, I am interested moving to Costa Rica this summer. I have monthly income and would like to work as beauty therapist/rent salon or beauty room. Any advice ??
I don't really agree with much of the post that Lapalmaman48 makes, but I see no reason to ban him. ... Read More
Property Tax payment by nagyesztergar
Any body knows of a company that would pay my property tax in Puntarenas?
You don't need a permission letter. Also, some property taxes can be paid online, BN Internet Banking. Read More
What's your favourite Costa Rican food ? by Julie
Hi, Let's talk about food! I indeed love to discover (and taste!) new recipes and I would be interested to know the traditional dishes you would recommend. What is your favourite food of Costa Rica? What are the main differences between the local ...
Arnold, I have a question for you, do you live in Costa Rica and if so, why? Read More
What's your favourite Costa Rican food ? by Julie
Hi, Let's talk about food! I indeed love to discover (and taste!) new recipes and I would be interested to know the traditional dishes you would recommend. What is your favourite food of Costa Rica? What are the main differences between the local ...
I do agree the food here is different. But, your statement about the U.S. not having any Costa Rican Restaurants is not correct. Not a bunch, but some. irazuchicago.com/ Read More
"Border hopping" by jordan6223
Been reading a lot lately about "border hopping" (renewing your visa after 90 days) The Panama border security seems to be very difficult at this moment, you need to be able to show them $500,00 + a ticket to wherever you came from. Personally I ...
Kohlerias, I also am here legally with the same rights you have, except I don't pay a buttload of money to the CAJA. If you think I am illegal, you have been sold a bill of goods.BTW I pay $24 a month for CAJA> Read More
"Border hopping" by jordan6223
Been reading a lot lately about "border hopping" (renewing your visa after 90 days) The Panama border security seems to be very difficult at this moment, you need to be able to show them $500,00 + a ticket to wherever you came from. Personally I ...
Kohlerias, In my opinion, the best information is personal experience. Just because someone gets less than a 90 day visa does not make it a new law or regulation. I know many expats in my area that never have problems. I think one of the problems ... Read More
"Border hopping" by jordan6223
Been reading a lot lately about "border hopping" (renewing your visa after 90 days) The Panama border security seems to be very difficult at this moment, you need to be able to show them $500,00 + a ticket to wherever you came from. Personally I ...
KOHLERIAS, Please read my post #45. Never 24 hours, never less than 90 days after having done this more than 30 times. Perhaps you will read this and stop spreading lies on this forum. What is it that you have to sell? Read More
"Border hopping" by jordan6223
Been reading a lot lately about "border hopping" (renewing your visa after 90 days) The Panama border security seems to be very difficult at this moment, you need to be able to show them $500,00 + a ticket to wherever you came from. Personally I ...
These reports are not true. I just did my visa run 2 days ago. Read More
"Border hopping" by jordan6223
Been reading a lot lately about "border hopping" (renewing your visa after 90 days) The Panama border security seems to be very difficult at this moment, you need to be able to show them $500,00 + a ticket to wherever you came from. Personally I ...
LaMariposa, I have been doing this for more than 8 years. My passport is jam packed with stamps. Costa Rica could care less about perpetual tourist. If you get less than 90 days, the problem is with the tourist, not the immigration person. Lots of ... Read More
"Border hopping" by jordan6223
Been reading a lot lately about "border hopping" (renewing your visa after 90 days) The Panama border security seems to be very difficult at this moment, you need to be able to show them $500,00 + a ticket to wherever you came from. Personally I ...
I just got back from a visa run to Panama. Entry into Panama needed a bank statement and a ticket to the U.S. Went shopping for a couple hours, then exited Panama. Entry into Costa Rica need only a ticket to the U.S.. Got 90 days. No Tax, no problem ... Read More
"Border hopping" by jordan6223
Been reading a lot lately about "border hopping" (renewing your visa after 90 days) The Panama border security seems to be very difficult at this moment, you need to be able to show them $500,00 + a ticket to wherever you came from. Personally I ...
So the lawyer has no comment? Very strange indeed. Read More
"Border hopping" by jordan6223
Been reading a lot lately about "border hopping" (renewing your visa after 90 days) The Panama border security seems to be very difficult at this moment, you need to be able to show them $500,00 + a ticket to wherever you came from. Personally I ...
From AM Costa Rica Oct.5,2012. A quote from Freddy Montero Mora, Deputy Director General of Immigration. 聯So if you stay one month more, you won't be allowed to enter for three months,聰 said Freddy Montero Mora, deputy director ... Read More
"Border hopping" by jordan6223
Been reading a lot lately about "border hopping" (renewing your visa after 90 days) The Panama border security seems to be very difficult at this moment, you need to be able to show them $500,00 + a ticket to wherever you came from. Personally I ...
It is not nor has it ever been illegal to be a tourist in Costa Rica. Just like ARCR, if you have something to sell, tell them it's not legal. Read More
"Border hopping" by jordan6223
Been reading a lot lately about "border hopping" (renewing your visa after 90 days) The Panama border security seems to be very difficult at this moment, you need to be able to show them $500,00 + a ticket to wherever you came from. Personally I ...
First of all, it is difficult to estimate the number of perpetual tourist in Costa Rica because they are living here ilegaly. I disagree with this statement. A tourist with a current visa is not here illegally. And this is coming from a so called ... Read More
5 good reasons for living in Costa Rica by Julien
Hi, if someone asks you the best reasons for making the choice to live and stay in Costa Rica, what would be your top 5? Thanks in advance for participating, Julien
CR is socialist country with high taxes and a welfare system. High Taxes, not at all true. Welfare system, not true Socialist Country, not true Do you live in the same Costa Rica I do? Read More
Opening a bank account in Costa Rica by Julien
Hi all, is it difficult for expats to open a bank account in Costa Rica ? Which documents are required to open a bank account in Costa Rica ? How long does it take to open it ? Is there any restriction for expats regarding the services ...
Arnold, Do you actually live here in Costa Rica? The reason I ask is, you seem to be full of very derogatory comments about Costa Rica and it's people. You might want to try and tone it down a little. Pura Vida Read More
Looking for a place my husband & I can retire comfortably on $25K a yr by Karen111
I'm looking for a place my husband & I can retire comfortably on $25K a year that is: - close to ocean - doesn't have high humidity all the time - safe - friendly people toward Americans Costa Rica looked good until I found out about the huge bug ...
[Moderated: Off topic. No need for that] Read More
Looking for a place my husband & I can retire comfortably on $25K a yr by Karen111
I'm looking for a place my husband & I can retire comfortably on $25K a year that is: - close to ocean - doesn't have high humidity all the time - safe - friendly people toward Americans Costa Rica looked good until I found out about the huge bug ...
Trouble is, you will never know what it's like here unless you have your feet on the ground. You do know this is a Costa Rica forum right? Your last word on the subject was about 3 posts ago. Find another forum and have a nice day. Read More
Looking for a place my husband & I can retire comfortably on $25K a yr by Karen111
I'm looking for a place my husband & I can retire comfortably on $25K a year that is: - close to ocean - doesn't have high humidity all the time - safe - friendly people toward Americans Costa Rica looked good until I found out about the huge bug ...
When someone tries be be an expert on a county they have never visited, you are talking to an idiot! Read More
Members Living in Costa Rica
I am curious to know how many people that post here actually live here. Seems to be many self proclaimed experts that have only visited here a few times. Just sayin'. Read More
Possibly Relocating to Costa Rica by armymom1953
Hi everyone! My husband and I are exploring the option of early retirement and moving to Costa Rica. We are looking for a furnished 2 bdrm rental preferably close to a beach. Would like to keep it $800 US dollars or under. We also prefer the warmer ...
You should always look closely at anything you buy. Everyone knows that. I know cars here have a 30 day warrant because I have used it once with no trouble. Read More
Possibly Relocating to Costa Rica by armymom1953
Hi everyone! My husband and I are exploring the option of early retirement and moving to Costa Rica. We are looking for a furnished 2 bdrm rental preferably close to a beach. Would like to keep it $800 US dollars or under. We also prefer the warmer ...
Beg to differ DDTica, when you sell a car in Costa Rica you have to warrant the car for 30 days. It's the law. Read More
perpetual tourists note: got 30 day visa - discretion of "interviewer" by BillA
I am what is sometimes called a "perpetual tourist", I simply exit CR every 90 days and return with another 90 day visa. Yesterday that ended, at least for now, when I was given a 30 day visa; no appeal, the discretion of the "interviewer" as to ...
I just did a visa run to Paso Canoas today. Took 3 minutes, no bus ticket, 90 days, no problem. It was early this morning, about 8am, the girl at migration was talking on her cell phone, scanned my passport, and hit it with the stamp. Been doing ... Read More
newbie
ARCR is the the association of residents of Costa Rica. Paul is the main moderator. Very - and doesn't like to be disagreed with, hence I was banned twice. I notice some of the same users here. Read More
newbie
Hello, I have been living in Costa Rica for 5 years. I wanted to find a different forum thats has no commercial interest, unlike the ARCR forum. I was banned from that forum twice for not agreeing with the moderators, mainly Paul. So, maybe it will ... Read More