Expats Costa Rica

Costa Rican ex-pats enjoy one of the ecologically diverse countries on the planet.

Expats Costa Rica

Costa Rica is a popular destination for expats or people who live and work in a country other than their own. Many ex-pats are attracted to Costa Rica for its beautiful natural surroundings, friendly locals, and reasonable cost of living.

There are a variety of expat communities in Costa Rica, ranging from small towns and villages to larger cities like San Jose. Some expats choose to live in more rural areas, where they can enjoy a slower pace of life and be closer to nature. Others prefer the amenities and conveniences of city living.

Expats in Costa Rica may work in a variety of fields, including tourism, real estate, and education. Many expats also run their own businesses or work remotely for companies based outside of Costa Rica.

Living in Costa Rica as an expat can be an exciting and rewarding experience. However, it is important to be prepared for some challenges, such as learning a new language and adapting to a different culture. It is also important to be aware of the local laws and customs, and to take steps to protect your personal safety.

Overall, living in Costa Rica as an expat can be a rewarding and fulfilling experience. It is a great opportunity to immerse yourself in a new culture, learn a new language, and make new friends.

Expat Communities in Costa Rica

There are several expat communities in Costa Rica, located in various regions of the country. Some popular destinations for expats include the Central Valley region, which includes the capital city of San Jose and surrounding areas like Escazú (see following paragraph for more about our medical clinic and Escazú below); the Pacific Coast, which is known for its beautiful beaches and laid-back lifestyle; and the Caribbean Coast, which is home to a mix of Afro-Caribbean and indigenous communities.

Many expats in Costa Rica choose to live in smaller towns and villages, where they can enjoy a more laid-back lifestyle and be closer to nature. These communities often offer a sense of camaraderie and support for expats, and may have expat-run businesses and organizations that cater to the expat community.

There are also expat communities in larger cities like San Jose, which offer more amenities and conveniences but may be more expensive to live in. Expats in these areas may have access to a wider range of employment and business opportunities, as well as a more diverse mix of people and cultures.

Overall, the ex-pat community in Costa Rica is diverse and welcoming, and there is a range of communities to choose from depending on your interests and lifestyle preferences.

How is Healthcare in Costa Rica?

The healthcare system in Costa Rica is generally considered to be high quality and accessible to all citizens and legal residents. The country has a universal healthcare system, which is funded through a combination of public and private sources.

In Costa Rica, healthcare is provided through a network of public hospitals, clinics, and health centers, as well as private hospitals and clinics. The public healthcare system is generally considered to be of good quality, with trained healthcare professionals and modern facilities. However, like any healthcare system, it can be stretched thin at times, and waiting times for appointments and procedures may be longer than in some other countries.

Private healthcare is also available in Costa Rica, and is generally considered to be of a higher quality than the public system. Private hospitals and clinics often have shorter wait times and more advanced facilities, but can be more expensive than the public system.

Three Excellent Private Healthcare options:

Overall, the healthcare system in Costa Rica is generally considered to be high quality and accessible to all citizens and legal residents. It is a good idea for expats living in Costa Rica to familiarize themselves with the healthcare system and to have a plan in place for accessing medical care if needed.

Digital Nomad Visa for Costa Rica

Digital nomads in Costa Rica have a few options for obtaining a visa to live and work in the country.

Tourist visa: Digital nomads can enter Costa Rica as tourists, which allows them to stay in the country for up to 90 days. This can be a good option for short-term stays, but it does not allow digital nomads to work legally in the country.
Temporary residency: Digital nomads can apply for temporary residency in Costa Rica, which allows them to stay in the country for up to one year. This type of visa allows digital nomads to work legally in the country and can be renewed for an additional year if desired. There are several types of temporary residency visas, including the rentista visa (for those who have a steady income from rental properties or investments), the pensionado visa (for those who have a steady income from a pension), and the inversionista visa (for those who are investing in a business in Costa Rica).
Permanent residency: Digital nomads who have lived in Costa Rica for at least five years on a temporary residency visa may be eligible to apply for permanent residency. This type of visa allows digital nomads to live and work in Costa Rica indefinitely.

The cost of a visa in Costa Rica depends on the type of visa and the length of stay. It is a good idea for digital nomads to consult with an immigration lawyer or the Costa Rican consulate to determine the best visa option for their needs and to find out more about the process and fees involved.

Costa Rica Expat Community in Escazú

Escazú is a popular destination for expats in Costa Rica, located in the Central Valley region of the country. It is a upscale suburb of the capital city of San Jose, known for its upscale shopping centers and gated communities. Many expats who live in Escazú work in the city or run their own businesses, and appreciate the convenience of being close to the amenities and conveniences of San Jose while enjoying a more suburban lifestyle.

The expat community in Escazú is diverse and welcoming, and there are a variety of expat-run businesses and organizations that cater to the expat community. There are also a number of international schools in the area, which can be attractive to expat families with children.

Living in Escazú can be more expensive than other areas of Costa Rica due to its proximity to the city and the higher cost of living. However, it can be an attractive destination for those who are looking for a more upscale lifestyle and easy access to the amenities of San Jose.

US Citizen Dr. Jeff Ugalde, MD

Board-Certified in Anti-Aging and Regenerative Medicine by the American Academy of Anti-Aging Medicine (A4M).

Top 7 Restaurants in Escazú Costa Rica

La Luz: This popular restaurant in Escazú serves a mix of Costa Rican and international cuisine, with dishes ranging from traditional Costa Rican casado plates to pasta and seafood. La Luz also has a beautiful outdoor patio and garden area, which is a great spot to enjoy a meal on a nice day.

El Patio de Don Fernando: This traditional Costa Rican restaurant serves a variety of dishes, including casados, seafood, and grilled meats. The restaurant has a cozy atmosphere and is known for its friendly service.

La Divina Comida: This popular restaurant in Escazú serves a mix of Italian and Costa Rican cuisine, with dishes ranging from pizzas and pastas to traditional Costa Rican casado plates. The restaurant has a cozy atmosphere and is known for its delicious food and friendly service.

La Esquina de Buenos Aires: This Argentinean restaurant in Escazú serves a variety of grilled meats, including steaks, choripan sandwiches, and empanadas. The restaurant has a lively atmosphere and is popular with both expats and locals.

Sabor a Café: This cozy café in Escazú serves a variety of coffee, pastries, and sandwiches. It is a great spot to grab a quick breakfast or lunch, and is known for its friendly service and cozy atmosphere.

La Casa de la Empanada: This popular restaurant in Escazú specializes in empanadas, which are savory pastries filled with a variety of fillings. The restaurant also serves a variety of other dishes, including sandwiches, salads, and soups.

Casa de Campo: This popular restaurant in Escazú serves a mix of Costa Rican and international cuisine, with dishes ranging from traditional casado plates to pasta and seafood. The restaurant has a beautiful outdoor patio and is known for its friendly service and delicious food.

Top 3 Hotels in Escazú

Real InterContinental Costa Rica at Multiplaza Mall: This upscale hotel in Escazú is located in the upscale Multiplaza Mall and offers luxurious accommodations, including a spa and fitness center. It is also conveniently located near a variety of restaurants and shopping centers.

Hotel Grano de Oro: This stylish boutique hotel in Escazú is located in a beautiful colonial-style mansion and offers a range of amenities, including a spa, fitness center, and outdoor pool. The hotel is known for its friendly service and stylish accommodations.

Hotel Pura Vida: This stylish hotel in Escazú is located in a beautiful colonial-style mansion and offers a range of amenities, including a spa, fitness center, and outdoor pool. The hotel is known for its friendly service and stylish accommodations. It is also conveniently located near a variety of restaurants and shopping centers.

Is the Largest Expat Community in Costa Rica Escazú?

It is difficult to say definitively which area in Costa Rica has the largest expat community, as the expat population is dispersed throughout the country and there is no official data on the size of expat communities in each location. However, Escazú is a popular destination for expats in Costa Rica due to its proximity to the capital city of San Jose and its upscale amenities and conveniences. It is likely that Escazú has a significant expat community, although it may not necessarily be the largest in the country.

There are expat communities in various locations throughout Costa Rica, ranging from small towns and villages to larger cities like San Jose. Many expats choose to live in more rural areas, where they can enjoy a slower pace of life and be closer to nature, while others prefer the amenities and conveniences of city living. Overall, the expat community in Costa Rica is diverse and welcoming, and there are many different communities to choose from depending on your interests and lifestyle preferences.

Where is the US Embassy in Costa Rica?

The United States embassy in Costa Rica is located in San Jose, the capital city of Costa Rica. The embassy is located at Avenida O and Calle 116, in the Pavas neighborhood of San Jose. The embassy is open to the public from Monday to Friday, from 7:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., except on U.S. and Costa Rican holidays.

The embassy offers a range of services to U.S. citizens living in or visiting Costa Rica, including assistance with passports and visas, consular reports of birth abroad, and notarization of documents. The embassy also provides information on local laws and customs, and can offer assistance in case of an emergency.

It is important to note that the embassy is a high-security facility, and visitors are required to pass through a security checkpoint and may be subject to searches. It is recommended to arrive at the embassy with plenty of time before your appointment, and to bring any required documentation with you.

Of course, the US Embassy is in Escazú or on the border of San Jose and Escazú. To get to the embassy from Escazú, you can take the Inter-American Highway south towards San Jose. From the highway, take the exit for Paseo Colon and follow the signs for the embassy, which is located in the Pavas neighborhood.

If you are taking public transportation, you can take a bus or taxi from Escazú to San Jose. The journey takes about 30 minutes by bus, and taxis are readily available in the area. It is important to note that the embassy is a high-security facility, and visitors are required to pass through a security checkpoint and may be subject to searches. It is recommended to arrive at the embassy with plenty of time before your appointment and to bring any required documentation with you.

Popular Adventures for Expats Living in Costa Rica

There are many exciting adventures that expats living in Costa Rica can enjoy. Some popular options include:

Surfing: Costa Rica is known for its beautiful beaches and great surf, and there are many spots along the Pacific and Caribbean coasts where expats can catch some waves.
Hiking: Costa Rica is home to a variety of beautiful national parks and nature reserves, which offer excellent hiking and birdwatching opportunities. Some popular destinations include Arenal Volcano National Park and Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve.
Whitewater rafting: Costa Rica has many rivers that are perfect for whitewater rafting, with a range of rapids to suit different skill levels. Expats can enjoy a thrilling ride through the rainforest and see some of the country’s beautiful scenery.
Zip lining: Costa Rica is home to many zip lining tours, which allow expats to fly through the rainforest canopy and get a unique perspective on the natural beauty of the country.
Beach bumming: Costa Rica has many beautiful beaches, and expats can enjoy soaking up the sun, swimming in the warm waters, and relaxing on the sand.
Volunteering: Costa Rica has many organizations that offer volunteer opportunities, ranging from environmental conservation projects to community development initiatives. Expats can make a positive impact on the local community while also learning about the culture and customs of Costa Rica.

Overall, Costa Rica offers a wide range of adventures and activities for expats to enjoy, making it a great place to live and explore.

Security in Escazú Expat Communities

Like any city, Escazú has its own unique set of security challenges and it is important for expats to be aware of their surroundings and take steps to protect their personal safety. However, overall, Escazú is generally considered to be a safe place to live and work.

It is a good idea for expats living in Escazú to be aware of their surroundings and take common-sense precautions to protect their personal safety, such as avoiding walking alone at night, keeping valuables out of sight, and locking doors and windows. It is also a good idea to be aware of local laws and customs, and to avoid engaging in activities that may be considered illegal or inappropriate.

In case of an emergency, expats can contact the local police or the U.S. embassy in San Jose for assistance. It is also a good idea to register with the U.S. embassy in Costa Rica, which can provide assistance in case of an emergency.

Overall, living in Escazú can be a safe and enjoyable experience for expats, as long as they take steps to protect their personal safety and are aware of their surroundings.

Avenieda Escazú - Fine Dining and Outdoor Mall

Avenida Escazú is a major road in the suburb of Escazú, located in the Central Valley region of Costa Rica. It is a busy thoroughfare that runs through the heart of Escazú and is home to a variety of businesses, including restaurants, shops, and offices.

Avenida Escazú is a popular destination for both locals and expats, and is known for its upscale shopping centers and restaurants. The road is also home to a number of embassies and consulates, including the U.S. embassy.

Avenida Escazú is easily accessible from other parts of the Central Valley region, and is located just a short drive from the capital city of San Jose. It is a popular destination for both locals and tourists, and is known for its upscale amenities and convenient location.

Multiplaza Mall Escazú

The Multiplaza Mall is only one block away from the Age Metrics Medical Anti-Aging treatment center.

Multiplaza Mall Escazú is a large shopping mall located in the suburb of Escazú, in the Central Valley region of Costa Rica. It is one of the largest and most popular malls in the country, and is home to a wide range of stores, including international brands and local retailers. The mall also has a number of restaurants, a movie theater, and a food court.

Multiplaza Mall Escazú is a popular destination for both locals and expats, and is known for its upscale shops and amenities. It is conveniently located near a number of major roads and is easily accessible from other parts of the Central Valley region.

The mall is open seven days a week, from 10:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m., and has ample parking available. It is a popular destination for shopping, dining, and entertainment, and is a great place to spend a day exploring the various stores and restaurants.

What are some other Expat Communities in Costa Rica besides Escazú?

There are several expat communities in Costa Rica, located in various regions of the country. Some popular destinations for expats include:

San Jose: The capital city of Costa Rica is home to a large and diverse expat community, with many expats living and working in the city or running their own businesses. San Jose is a vibrant and cosmopolitan city, with a wide range of amenities and conveniences.
Manuel Antonio: This popular beach town on the Pacific Coast is home to a growing expat community, and is known for its beautiful beaches and laid-back lifestyle. Many expats in Manuel Antonio work in the tourism industry or run their own businesses.
Tamarindo: This popular beach town on the Pacific Coast is home to a large expat community, and is known for its beautiful beaches and surf. Many expats in Tamarindo work in the tourism industry or run their own businesses.
Atenas: This small town in the Central Valley region is home to a growing expat community, and is known for its friendly locals and low cost of living. Many expats in Atenas run their own businesses or work remotely for companies based outside of Costa Rica.
Nosara: This popular beach town on the Pacific Coast is home to a large expat community, and is known for its beautiful beaches and surf. Many expats in Nosara work in the tourism industry, or run their own businesses.

Overall, there are many different expat communities to choose from in Costa Rica, depending on your interests and lifestyle preferences. Each community has its own unique character and amenities, and is a great place to live and work as an expat.

About Age Metrics Medical - Your Anti-Aging and Wellness choice while Visiting Costa Rica

Anti-Aging and Wellness has been a big industry in Costa Rica. The clinic was established by a US investor in 2013 and has the most experienced medical team in Costa Rica for Anti-Aging Medicine and Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapies. Dr. Ugalde is the medical directory for the clinic. He is board-certified by the American Academy of Anti-Aging Medicine, A4M.

Anti-aging medicine is a branch of medicine that focuses on the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of age-related diseases and conditions. It aims to help people maintain a healthy and active lifestyle as they age, and to delay or prevent the onset of age-related conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, and Alzheimer’s disease.

Anti-Aging medicine practitioners use a variety of strategies to promote healthy aging, including lifestyle modifications (such as diet and exercise), dietary supplements, and medications. They may also use diagnostic tests and procedures to identify and treat underlying health issues that may contribute to the aging process.

Anti-Aging medicine is a controversial field, with some critics arguing that it is not supported by scientific evidence and may be motivated by profit rather than the well-being of patients. It is important for individuals considering anti-aging treatments to consult with a healthcare professional and carefully weigh the potential risks and benefits before making a decision.

Many expat patients express to us that it is nice to know the Age Metrics Medical clinic is represented by doctors and management who hold US Citizenship.