What is the Meaning of Pura Vida?
We've had a lot of questions about the meaning and origins of the Costa Rican phrase Pura Vida. Our Costa Rica country correspondents give their thoughts on Pura Vida and what it means to them...
Ask the Experts
So, you have decided you want to live overseas. That’s great…this is where your journey begins. Moving abroad raises many questions, and can sometimes seems like an exhaustive list of things to check out before you go.
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Ask the Experts Archives
Are There Low Cost Apartments Available for Rent in Boquete, Panama?
I’m a single, 72 year old woman living strictly on my Social Security income of $1,400.00 per month. I’m currently renting a Section 42 studio apartment for $443.00 per month. It’s a decent apartment that isn’t rundown but it’s decidedly very small and plain. Your literature indicates that one should be prepared to pay $650.00 Read more...: Are There Low Cost Apartments Available for Rent in Boquete, Panama?
Is Roatán Safe?
Having now lived outside the U.S. for nearly seven years, I am frequently asked by my friends back in the States if living outside the U.S. is safe. That prompts an internal chuckle that I find tough to stifle...
Amazing Tips on Retiring Overseas from Expat Experts
Assimilating to a new culture is fun and exciting, but it also takes some work. Not everyone talk about that, and it’s important to be both aware and willing to put that work in. To view it as a fun challenge that will enrich your life beyond measure...
What Currency is Used in Costa Rica?
It was the Great Navigator himself, Christopher Columbus who discovered Costa Rica. The year was 1502, and Columbus was making his fourth and final voyage to the New World. For the next 320 years, Costa Rica, the “Rich Coast” was a Spanish colony...
Retire close to a beach comfortably on $2000 a month?
My husband and I are looking to get away from this weather and live overseas preferably close to a beach. He is looking at Asia where while I have been leaning towards Central or South America. Our joint monthly income will be roughly $2000 per month...
Do I Need Medical Evacuation Insurance When Moving Overseas?
I think it depends on what country in which you are living if medical evacuation insurance is necessary. Some countries, like Colombia or France, have excellent medical facilities which are on par with North American quality and advances. In my opinion for most countries...
Is it Safe to Live in Argentina?
In recent years, Argentina has established a reputation as an attractive destination for tourists and expats. As a vacation spot, it offers vibrant European-style cities, superb food, inviting Atlantic beaches, diverse wilderness, and a welcoming vibe. For retirees, it provides a relaxed, affordable lifestyle...
Is Ecuador Safe?
Is Ecuador safe? This is a question we get a lot from International Living readers. We've asked our Ecuador correspondents Donna Stiteler (Cuenca) and Jim Santos (Salinas) to answer some of our readers' questions regarding safety in Ecuador. Here's what they said...
Buying a Car in Costa Rica: 8 Tips
When moving to Costa Rica, many expats wonder whether they should bring their car from home or buy something when they get down there. Well… it depends. As covered in this article, “Bringing a Car to Costa Rica,” importing a car from the U.S., while relatively easy, can be quite expensive. In fact, you could pay close to the value of the car in import duties and fees.