Properties in Costa Rica Blog

Stanford University has plenty of impact and influence in the way our country constantly works to preserve the ecosystem. President Alvarado chose to present to their community the new decarbonization plan. The goal is to become a green economy with the promotion of clean energies to combat climate change.

Known as one of the most prestigious colleges in the USA there are two main investigations being held in this college, Stanford Natural Capital Project and Stanford Woods Institute for the Environment were they choose Costa Rica as their study field due to the abundant natural resources and number of diverse ecosystems.

The Natural Capital Project works on researching links between biodiversity and earth observations with health and well-being. The Woods Institute works directly with banks and financial systems to optimize resources intended for the protection of the ecosystem.

Their reaction towards the plan has been very positive technical as well as inspiring. There are certainly several major changes to implement in the governments’ structure and management. Reforms include public and private means of transport, forms of energy, construction, industry and waste management. President Alvarado also states that it’s our responsibility to start working on the planet, the damage is evident and we have had extreme climate changes and natural disasters that need our attention. Alvarado was eager to present the new plan to the students who are constantly investigating and helping improve the country. His main statement during the conference was to spread de word about this plan, we must be an example for others to follow and start implementing major changes hoping to reduce deforestation worldwide. President Carlos Alvarado looks forward to other countries joining him in this new journey and this presentation is one big step.

The goal is set for 2050, 31 years from now and they tend to work with 8 strategies to achieve this inclusive economic growth and sustainable development. As for now, this initiative counts with support from the Inter-American Development Bank (BID), Al Gore, former vice president of the United States and Michelle Bachelet former president of Chile.

Costa Rica is known to be a country that carries 4% of the world’s biodiversity, this is for the sustained conservation practices through the years and hope that more countries follow the same path.

We are still missing research in Costa Rica on some but real important facts like the social, economic, health and environmental impact of livestock as an integrated way to accomplish solutions to reduce the effects of this industry in our lives and others.

We need to keep seeking and aiming for a better world and set an example for more countries to follow the same path. Each of us has an impact on the environment and the world so not only what we do, what our government does but what we eat will have a footprint and we need to seek better outcomes and best practices in order to contribute to next generations.

Jaco Beach is located for its famous for its nightlife, party atmosphere and the beautiful beaches with some great surfing spots. Just one and a half hours away from San Jose, you will find this energetic city. Located in the county of Garabito in the Puntarenas province, the city has a population of approximately 10,000 residents. Jaco beach is 2.5 miles (4 km) long and offers some of the best surfing in Costa Rica.

Jaco is a beach recognized for beginners surfers, the waves are strong and consistent enough for intermediate surfers as well, but not so powerful for those who are just starting out.

On the main road, you will find Jaco Walk, a brand new shopping center with different gastronomic options such as sushi, burgers, Argentine barbecue or gelato that will make you feel like in downtown Miami. The main strip presents tons of souvenir shops and grocery stores. You will also find locals selling their handmade clothes on the beach and streets with beautiful typical designs inspired in nature.

If you prefer outdoor activities, there are several companies that will help you, balancing on a rope in the best Tarzan style in a zip-line through the forest, bungee jumping, paragliding on the shore, or renting an ATV to drive through rivers and trails full of mud are several of the options offered. Looking for a peaceful activity? Rent a boat a kayak or catamaran and navigate to nearby beaches. You will hopefully see some whales and dolphins!

Jaco Beach real estate is one of the most active real estate and rental markets in the country right now. Ever since highway 27 was completed in 2010, with increased accessibility to both San Jose and the International Airport, Jaco has received an influx of both local and international tourists and retirees. Jaco offers investors great value and there is a large range of property types to accommodate all budgets from $100,000 up. The rental market is thriving so owners who choose to rent their properties out are obtaining some of the best rental yields in the country. Because of this phenomenal growth, there is a wealth of opportunities for investors in both residential and commercial property.

Friendly people, the blue sea, amazing real estate market, and a large number of entertainment options offered makes it one of the best beach towns in the Pacific! 😃

Cost-of-living is a useful measurement that allows you to compare expenses between locations and over time.

Expats looking to relocate in Costa Rica need to consider many factors that affect the amount of money they will spend, and it will mainly depend on the location and lifestyle they choose.

The average cost of living in the Central Valley can vary between $800 – $1,200 if you are living by yourself. Depending on the area you choose you will be spending more money on your day to day basis. For example, living in Escazu, Santa Ana or Guanacaste, which are modern urbanizations with tons of foreign won’t be the same as living in Cartago, which despite being an urbanized area it’s still more rural and thus cheaper.

Lifestyle will define the amount of money you spend. If you are looking for top-notch facilities, an American school for your kids with international certificates like IB, or if you are looking to spend your money on a brand new car you will certainly be spending more money no matter which location you are on.

In Costa Rica, tourism is one of the main incomes, including eco-tourism. The Presidency of the Nation, the Bank of Costa Rica (BCR) and the Institute of Costa Rican Tourism (ICT) announced in November 2018 that contribution of the tourism industry corresponds to 6.3% of GDP. There are tons of areas made for tourism mainly in which the cost of living will certainly be higher.

The HealthCare in Costa Rica has a government-sponsored system called La Caja, which works perfectly for Ticos and legal residents that aport a small fee depending on their income. There is also private health care, certainly more expensive than the public system, but much more accessible than in the US and some European countries. Costa Rica medical system is so good that medical tourism is part of a major movement in the country. Costa Rica is ranked high on worldwide rankings for health services in Latin America.

Large supermarket chains tend to have higher prices than expected. Most Americans, Canadians, and European trying to live in a low budget rather visit the farmers market held in most towns than going to the supermarket. In these street markets, you will be able to find fresh fruits and vegetables to almost half the price than in a grocery store. Seeds, fresh fish, eggs, milk, artisanal cheese, and goods.

Cost of renting mostly depends on your budget, a two or three bedroom apartment starts at 1000 to 3000 thousand monthly. Buying is always a safer option since you guaranteed only the payment of the utilities and those are not expensive at all.

Finding the best and most affordable place to live, really depends on what you’re looking for, and if what you are looking are a good quality of life and excellent climate, Costa Rica will do for you!

The health care system in Costa Rica is affordable and high quality when comparing it to the one in the USA and some European countries. According to Business Insider Costa Rica is ranked as #13 in a worldwide health system ranking, “Costa Rica has the best health services in Latin America, and its healthy life expectancy is 71.2 years”. There are two modalities of health care in Costa Rica: private and public.

The public health system of our country is called Caja Costarricense de Seguro Social (CCSS) popularly known as the Caja. The government-sponsored Caja has the goal of providing low-cost healthcare to the Costa Ricans and legal citizens. Expats living in the country as retirees can be eligible to join this system for a small monthly fee based on their income. With this insurance, you will be able to get free treatments, check-ups, and major surgeries with top qualified doctors. The Caja offers excellent quality since it’s constantly upgrading technologies and their personnel, thus still for a lower cost than in the USA. This system was introduced in 1941, and it has been through several reforms that make it more efficient. La Caja counts with more than 30 hospitals and 1000 Ebais which are clinics made up of at least one doctor, a nurse, and a first aid assistant.

Private healthcare in Costa Rica is also known as one of the cheapest and top quality in Latin America. Nevertheless, this system will surely be more expensive than Caja. There are three famous hospitals that have been expanding throughout the country with high quality, first class, and modern services/equipment: CIMA Hospital, Clinica Biblica and Hospital La Catolica. The CIMA Hospital has its main venue in Escazu, close to an area populated with foreign and they recently opened its second venue in Liberia Guanacaste, located in the north Pacific, Liberia is a rapidly growing region close to some of the most famous beach towns where many expats choose to relocate.

The Clinica Biblica also inaugurated their new headquarters located in Santa Ana, closer to Escazu offering more services for expat communities in the west area of San Jose. The private sector has also opened a door to medical tourism, with its top-notch quality service and lower costs than in other countries, Costa Rica has become a paradise for those needing medical assistance. Doctors in the private sector charge between $60 – $70 for a visit.

Many foreigns chose to mix both types of healthcare systems. If the Caja is saturated, or you are looking for a second opinion, you can opt for a private visit and then share the documents with the Caja doctor. Thus, many of the doctors and dentists that operate with government system also have their own offices to operate in the private sector as well.

The new green economic plan announced in February 2019 by our Costa Rican President, has led to major changes in the public and private transportation sector. The plan intends to motivate people to use public transportation by making it more efficient, and promote the use of electric cars that generate 0 emissions.

On Thursday the changes in the transportation sector began with the presentation of new turquoise license plates for electric cars. Not only will they have a striking plaque, but they will have several benefits such as free permission to enter the city of San Jose during restriction days. It is important to mention the vehicular restriction of the Great Metropolitan Area (GAM). During weekdays, affects two numbers each day (plates ending numbers 0-9)

However, electric cars have always been able to travel freely even with restrictions. By having a distinguishable plaque, the police will be able to identify which electric cars are allowed to transit freely through the streets during the hours of restriction and won’t stop them.

Depending on the regulations of the different municipalities, electric cars will not have to pay parking hours on public roads using the parking meter. They will also have preferential parking spaces in both the public and private sectors. As a key to the new decarbonization plan presented by the President of the Republic, they promise to install charging stations throughout the country. There is actually an estimate of 56 semi-fast recharge stations to supply energy. For example, Multiplaza of Escazú already has its special parking space painted in blue for electric cars and a charging station.

According to the law of incentives and promotion for electric transport, persons or companies that import electric cars will have an exoneration from the customs tax, selective consumption tax, and general sales tax. Depending on the import value of each car, 50%, 75% or even 100% of each tax can be exempted. In addition, as another stimulus for owning one of these electric vehicles, they will not pay property tax for 5 years from the day of its nationalization.

As stated in The Plan, it is believed that the implementation of clean energy should also be reached through education. The goal is to include information about zero emissions technology to professional education programs as well as instructing the people responsible for vehicular transportation fleets both in the public and private sector. In addition, to be able to travel freely without restrictions, have benefits in tax payments, and savings in gasoline, people can also avoid sonic contamination when driving cars that emit almost no noise

Territorio de Zaguates is a private farm located between Santa Barbara de Heredia and Carrizal de Alajuela is the house of more than 1,300 stray dogs. The nonprofit organization was founded by Lya Battle and Alvaro Saumet, who has dedicated most of their lives to animals and their well being.

Territorio de Zaguates is a sanctuary with singular characteristics that make dogs feel free and loved, able to run and explore the hectares of the farm and share with each other. The origin of these dogs is varied: from dogs that have been found in the streets, some come from other refugees that had to close, abandoned, people that couldn’t take care of them, others rescued from the mistreatment… but in Territorio de Zaguates they are able to live in better conditions waiting for a family to adopt them. As soon as a new dog comes in, they treat them with love, bathe them, deworm, and even baptize them with a name. Each dog brought to Territorio becomes part of their beloved pack. Maintaining and founding this project is not so easy. They have to pay $5 per dog to a veterinarian to keep them healthy by deworming and sterilization or any other care they need. Sometimes dogs come to the sanctuary really harmed or beaten, so there is some extra work with some of them. Another important aspect which takes time and money to the project is shelter, they need to have free space but also somewhere to take cover when it gets cold and rainy. The shelter has an estimated cost of another $11 per dog.

One of the most important aspects of this project is definitely food which costs at least $25 per dog since they need to keep them strong and healthy. Adding all these needs up we can see that the maintenance for one dog is about $36.

What do they need the most? FOOD and DONATIONS

Territorio spends 18 to 20 bags of food weighing 30kg each. Food is indispensable for them and the only way to survive.

There will be soon volunteer options for people that would like to help in the shelter. The work will be up to your preferences, if you would like to play and share with dongs there will be tons of jobs for you! Cutting nails, bathing dogs, brushing them, playing, walking… If you prefer to visit the shelter, but would like another job without involving dogs there’s a lot of cleaning, painting, organizing and more.

If you are looking to donate something besides money, it would be best to call them and ask what are their needs, but food will always be the right choice. Donations are accepted at any time. Their web page is very complete and explanatory of their work and organization. You can donate the amount of money you want through their page, but you can also go to the shelter and help them with donations.

The idea of visiting Territorio is not only to understand the number of stray dogs that exist but to see and imagine the journey that each of them has gone through. Spending time with Dogs can contribute to the improvement of your quality of life, mood, physical fitness, social interactions, are some of the benefits.

Dogs will not only keep you company but are truly man’s best friend as well. This interesting quote will keep you thinking for a while: “Money can buy you a fine dog, but only love can make him wag his tail – Kinky Friedman” #AdoptDontShop.

This Monday, February 25th, Costa Rican President Carlos Alvarado presented the new economic green plan in the Art Museum to more than 300 spectators. The presentation was led by Christiana Figueres, Costa Rican diplomat named Executive Secretary of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change in 2010 until 2016.

The national plan of decarbonization is a proposal to become a green economy by the sustainable use of natural resources. The plan seeks to implement changes in public and private means of transport, forms of energy, construction, industry and waste management. President Alvarado states that it’s our responsibility to start working on the planet, the damage is evident and we have had extreme climate changes and natural disasters that need our attention.

Some key factors of the renovation will be to make public transportation more efficient, motivating people to leave their own vehicles and thus generate fewer emissions. Also, the government proposes to install charging centers countrywide to promote the use of electric cars instead of regular gasoline or diesel. When talking about electricity, the objective is to consolidate a national electrical system capable of supplying and managing renewable energy for the country. Construction will also be a means to take into consideration aiming for less high standard but more efficiency with fewer emissions. The protection and maintenance of forests with natural solutions will be part of reform for biodiversity. Also, waste management will be a big part of the plan since they look for better practises applying the Rs of reducing, reusing, recycling and disposing of waste correctly.

How will they do this? The goal is set for 2050, 31 years from now. It is intended to work with 8 strategies to achieve this inclusive economic growth and sustainable development, including inclusion and respect for human rights, as well as Green Tax Reform and fair labor strategies. Modernizing corporations like Costa Rican Petroleum Refinery (RECOPE), the Costa Rican Electricity Institute (ICE), the Ministry of Public Works and Transportation (MOPT) and Public Transportation Council (CTP) between others will have a major impact in the economy and the planet. The decarbonization process will be strengthened through educational initiatives with the goal of changing habits and culture, as well as inculcating a new lifestyle. All these efforts will also bring the attraction of investments and thus more opportunities.

As for now, this initiative counts with support from the Inter-American Development Bank (BID), Al Gore, former vice president of the United States and Michelle Bachelet former president of Chile. Costa Rica is known to be a country that carries 4% of the world’s biodiversity, this is for the sustained conservation practises through the years. We seek for a better country, we are aiming for a better world and to set an example and hope that more countries follow the same path.

A yoga retreat is a gift for yourself, to enjoy your free time and leave all the burden and duties behind for a while. A “me time” to relax, nourish and empower your body, soul, and mind. When you visit a retreat you will be surrounded by people who are there for the same reasons looking wellness and to blend with others. Practicing yoga nourishes your soul, it helps with discipline, movement, breathing, stress and more. These kind of Retreats in Costa Rica are for organized for everyone, from expert yogis to beginners, but it will certainly be a life changer experience.

Let’s explore some of the retreats scattered around our country:

Pranamar Villas and Yoga Retreat – Santa Teresa – Nicoya Peninsula

Located in one of the most hippieS and peaceful towns in the Central Pacific well known for yoga retreats you will find these well-known villas. Pranamar hosts some of the most famous retreats with international and national yogis. Here you can have an all-inclusive yoga vacation ready to fit your needs. You can also experience daily classes and workshops. Yoga at the beach is one of the best things for your body since you are getting even positive effects from sunshine, the sea air, and outdoor exercise. Sand is very comfortable to try new challenging poses and you can cool off in the translucent ocean!

El Sabanero Eco Lodge – Avellanas – Guanacaste

This wellness resort is located minutes away from the most beautiful beaches in the region: Tamarindo, Langosta and Playa Grande. They focus on healthy practices, empowering the mind, body, and soul but also strengthening balance. Their goal is to teach skills for a better lifestyle to their community. They have daily yoga lessons offered in a wooden chalet overlooking Cañafitsula valley were the sunsets are amazing.

The Retreat – San Jose – Central Valley

This retreat is defined by luxury, wellness, and gastronomy. You will be able to explore different programs that will lead you to a conscious practice. Yoga is part of most of the programs them since it helps with movement, mental stability, mindfulness, wellness, and recovery. Located in Atenas, you will have an almost pleasant climate to enjoy all the workshops offered in The Retreat. With the package “Reset and Rejuvenate” you will experience restorative yoga classes in the morning and afternoon.

Danyasa Yoga Studio – Dominical – Central Pacific

Located in Dominical, one of the most beautiful beaches in the Central Pacific, Danyasa offers a yoga studio open to the public with yoga and movement classes. The studio is made out of bamboo and surrounded by the beautiful lush nature of the area. Classes are for all levels, from experts to beginners or for those exploring a new discipline. They look to fulfill the soul and connect to the inner rhythm by connecting with nature. Here, you will find different events like aerial yoga classes, surf and yoga, dance therapy and more.

Each year Uvita hosts one of the most acclaimed festivals in Central America: Envision.

A 5-day festival held at the beach that will change your life! International music, yoga, surf, workshops, and much more activities to discover. Each day you will have around 80 options of different things to do in one same place! A festival for all types of cultures known to wake up the human potential while learning from others in a sustainable community.

Envision festival is based on 8 pillars: Music, Movement, Art, Health, Community, Permaculture and Spirituality. Nourishing these pillars at the beach and the jungle will fulfill your body and mind.

There are several stages decorated meticulously with colorful sculptures. The festival has an amazing sound system accompanied with holograms and lights that will wake up all of your senses. Physical expression is key in Envision. Yoga classes at dawn or during the sunset, workshops, dancing classes… Explore your body, be free and conscious of movement helps you liberate day a day burdens. Throughout the festival, you will find different kinds of art to express yourself. Big canvases ready for everyone to join and blast their artsy side and share with the community. Freedom to express through art is part of this experience. There are mindful workshops for everyone to be part of, you will be able to explore different mindful practices through food, activity, medicine, and culture. The festival also focuses on the development of different sustainable and self-sufficient agricultural ecosystems. Thinking long term and helping the ecosystem through these practices will also help to fulfill our souls and portray the responsibility we have for helping the planet. Something really nourishing about the festival is that you will have the chance to share with local people and give back to the community.

The vast majority of attendants take their own tent and find a space within the jungle or beach, under the trees to take cover from the sun. You also have the possibility of staying at hotels, hostels, villas, and suites. If you are looking to rent a place you must plan ahead!

Since this is a sustainable festival that incentives good practices, there are some policies to follow, for example, no single-use plastic. Keep this in mind when bringing your eating props like forks, knives or cups. The food sold in the event is completely organic, totally delicious and with tons of options and flavors for everyone. Fresh and local! In town, you will also find grocery stores and organic supermarkets if you need any other supplements.

Since the festival lasts 4 days, we recommend you to come prepared! Bring all your energies and positive attitude, ready to dance and be part of the beautiful community. This year Envision will start on February 28th thru March 3rd. Get your tickets, you will remember this transformation experience for the rest of your life!

What to bring:

• Sunblock
• Comfortable shoes
• Comfortable and fresh clothes
• Sunglasses
• Bug repellent
• Reusable water bottles
• Medicines
• Flashlight

The Northern Pacific coast has a great variety of wonders to discover. It is well known for its strong culture and extense beautiful beaches limiting north with Nicaragua. Guanacaste is one of the most prominent provinces of the country known as the Gold Coast.

Below you will find our must-visit top 5 beach spots in this region:

Avellanas

Playa Avellanas is known as surfing beach town, having some of the most famous breaks along the beach. There are about 5 surf breaks with almost perfect conditions. If you are a starter you will be able to surf here but there is also a spot called Little Hawaii for experienced surfers. Avellanas has clear waters with some rocky areas so when there is low tide small pools are formed in the shore. Beautiful vegetation allows to have plenty of shadow below the trees but you could also rent a beach umbrella and chair to relax. It is well known for a beachfront restaurant with incredible ocean views named after the diva that walks every day through the beach, Lola: a pig. Lola is one of the main attractions in Avellanas, we at Properties In Costa Rica are very fun of her!

Right between Langosta Beach and Avellanas Beach you will find an elegant development of 4500 hectares called Hacienda Pinilla including a J.W. Marriott and a professional golf course for those looking for some activity.

Tamarindo

Tamarindo is the most famous beach town in the region combining natural beauty and ample amenities. It has become one of the busiest towns in Guanacaste, rapidly growing and attracting tourists from all over the world. You will find the main strip of Tamarindo full of hotels, backpackers hotels, camping spaces, condos, shops and some of the best restaurants in the area. If you are looking for a luxury vacation there is a beachfront five-star hotel and plenty of luxury villas scattered around town. There is no need to rent a car since everything is walking distance. It is a great place for amateur surfers and for those who would like to try their first surfing class!

Playa Grande

Playa Grande, which means “big beach” in English, is famous for the most consistent surf break in the region. Despite being 100 meters away from Tamarindo, it is a much more calmed beach with fewer crowds. Eco-tourism and surfers are the targets of this area since the beach is part of Las Baulas National Park, one of the most prominent site for turtle nesting. The goal is to protect these turtles and keep them coming to lay their eggs. Nesting can be watched but not alone, always with a guide that will make sure that the conditions are fine for turtles to nest while people watch. There is a big estuary in Playa Grande which has labyrinths of mangroves that can be explored in a kayak or stand up paddleboard and you’ll be able to find tons of animals, sometimes even crocodiles!

Conchal

Playa Conchal is one of the most acclaimed beaches in the Pacific region, located in Northern Guanacaste and 30 minutes away from famous Tamarindo. The name of “Conchal” means shell because of the unique texture of the sand, made from thousands of millions of little-crushed pieces of shells. This golden paradise offers crystal clear water that maintains an excellent temperature all year round. Right at the corner of the beach, you will find rocks which create pools for snorkeling. Rent a kayak and explore the small islands around, or if you like adrenaline rent a jet-ski for more speed. If you would like to enjoy a luxurious vacation you will find Reserva Conchal, a beachfront resort community with outstanding private amenities for owners and renters. There is also an all-inclusive West In Hotel and a brand new W Hotel.

Las Catalinas – Playa Danta & Dantita

Playa Danta and Dantita are two hidden white sand beaches full of vegetation and marine life. Located on a bay with calmed waters it has perfect conditions for snorkeling. Scuba diving in this area is a great attraction, you can book a tour to Punta Cacique and explore the oceans beauties finding animals like octopuses, white tip sharks, starfishes, manta rays and plenty more. There is a beachfront restaurant to enjoy a quick lunch or a romantic dinner by the sea. At Las Catalinas you will find a tour office right beside the beachfront restaurant which includes equipment for kayaking, snorkeling, beach games and more. The famous mountain bike trails and hiking trails here are something you must not miss!