by SoldVendido 
Where to find the PURA VIDA in Costa Rica? Is the life in Costa Rica worth to move there?
Pura vida is the phrase that you will hear everywhere in Costa Rica. Its English translation means Pure life or simple life, but it’s something more than just a term, it is a way of life, spirit, vibe. Life in Costa Rica is like a mix of spices. Why? Read the article.
If you want to enjoy your life, throw away dwellings about bad things and get along with Pura Vida, Costa Rica will be the perfect place.
Costa Rica is fascinating country located between Nicaragua and Panamá in Central America. Known as one of the biggest bio-diversity region in the world. A quarter of the country is comprised of a protected jungle, it is no surprise that Costa Rica is bursting with wildlife. Is the one of the few sustainability country and is often hailed as the birthplace of eco-tourism.
This is the paradise for nature lovers. Except for the jungle stretched into infinity, you can get away from the sun and cool down in the freezing water of waterfalls, challenge yourself during a trek to the summit of the active volcanoes, find your extraordinary beach to enjoy the best views on the shore or meet the slot crossed your way.
Natural wanders, intriguing wildlife and affordable cost of living makes Costa Rica a dream place for retired and other expats.
Every town, city, and region in Costa Rica gives you different things to enjoy. You’ll find established and welcoming expat communities all across the country. You don’t need fluent Spanish to fit in (but it’s particularly welcomed by local people to know some basics, they’ll appreciate it).
CENTRAL Valley – close everywhere
Number one region for foreigners is the Central Valley. Because of elevation ranging from 3000 ft – 5000 ft temperatures oscillate between 60-80 F almost everywhere. The gorgeous Central Valley offers a small-town friendly atmosphere. The biggest city is of course the capital San Jose. Many expats choose to live in the suburbs such as Santa Ana or Escazu to enjoy the countryside with mountain views and have a big city nearby.
Perfect combination!
If you are interested in more authentic towns you can take a look at Atenas, Grecian or Cartago which offer coffee plantations, sugar cane, vulcanos nearby and beautiful housing options.
Arenal Lake – volcano and hot springs
Next popular region is Arenal Lake which is the largest freshwater lake in Costa Rica in the northwestern part of the country. Arenal Lake is located at the base of the colossal volcano of the same name. The lake offers round year activities as windsurfing, fishing and kayaking. The area surrounding the lake is popular for horseback, hiking and mountain biking. Arenal is also home for hot springs which are irreplaceable for relaxing.
GOLD Coast – for sunshine lovers
The best region for sunshine lovers is Gold Coast on the northwest coastline in Guanacaste region. The reason why it’s a revered place is because of stunning beaches, dry tropical forest, gastronomic variety and world class waves. If you are looking for some beach front properties and beautiful sand beaches the perfect choice will be Flamingo town. This piece of paradise will surprise you not only because of the deep blue water in the ocean but also good restaurants and small supermarkets nearby. Flamingo is also just a short drive away from Tamarindo if you want to enjoy a night out or do some shopping.
Tamarindo is also a very interesting destination if you prefer a bigger town with a convenient commercial area with a combination of surrounding nature.
More privacy you can find close to Hermosa which is really close to national parks and Playas del Coco.
One of the most attractive beach is on the Gulf of Papagayo like the playa Panama which has gray sand and incredible blue waters, making it very visually appealing.
Guanacaste shores are one of the friendliest places, as locals here mix easily with visitors to create an environment that is perfect for those who want some peace and quiet.
For the best place for life in Costa Rica we can’t skip Central Pacific Cost which is sandwiched between cloud covered mountains and wild beaches. Along the coastal highway 34 you will find the picturesque landscape features beaches, national parks and natural reserves.
The Central Pacific area is characterized by small coastal villages and surfing style of living. Also, there are several beach towns that are popular with visitors to the area including Jaco Beach, Esterillos, Manuel Antonio. Jaco Beach is the closest to San Jose, just 1.5 hour to get there, and the largest Beach town in Costa Rica. It is a spot for tourists and locals, especially during weekends, where you enjoy the crowd at night time.
If the Central Pacific Coast is too arid for you definitely you should take a look at externally green The Southern Zone. It’s much less developed but absolutely stunning, unspoiled and natural in comparison to the northern part of the country. The region, from the small surf village of Dominical to the Osa Peninsula, embodies what it truly means to be in Costa Rica. The southern zone provides a high quality of life, from organic food to a sustainable lifestyle in harmony with pervasive wildlife. Three places which allow you to drawn into the costarican lifestyle are Dominical, Uvita and Ojchal. Any surfer doesn’t have to be convicting to live here, it’s arguably the best surfing spot in Costa Rica. But don’t worry, this destination offers mangroves, Corcovado National Park, jungle, whales watching spots, diving and snorkelling zones. It is a tiny town without massive clubs or all-night parties. Only 20 km far from Dominical is the Uvita town with one of the most popular National Park – Marino Bellana, also known as the ‘Whale’s tail”.
Caribbean Cost – Jamaican life in Costa Rica
Or maybe you are looking for something different, let’s check the other cost of Costa Rica!
It means Caribbean cost, which is different from the rest of the country. Climate on this part of Costa Rica is defined as equatorial, that is with no dry season – annually rainfall brings around 3000 mm which makes for an abundance of vegetation and humidity. You will enjoy a culturally diverse atmosphere with strong Afro-Caribbean influences. It’s an impressive place for living, natural beauty and scenic landscapes delights everyone. Nearly 70% of Caribbean cost is under protection, and this diversity attracts many expats. Because this cost is not so developed, prices are lower. Beaches like Punta Uva, Playa Chiquita, Mazanillo are never overcrowded. Many foreigner communities live in Puerto Viejo – the most Jamaican style town – it is hard not to love it if you’re into slow living and Caribbean culture.
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