Jes R. Says:
Are there any progressive (liberal minded) expat communities in Costa Rica?
IL Costa Rica Correspondent Bekah Botton Says:
Hi Jes,
I was just in Atenas having breakfast with a group of local expat women, and we were chatting about how, all around the world, it seems that the world is divided 50/50—even in Costa Rica.
I surround myself with people with similar views of my own. I never have problems finding these people.
When I was in Grecia recently, I went to a meetup of people who get together every Wed at noon at Los Jardines. I met a woman who runs the Democratic Abroad Costa Rica group. I suggest you go to this website and reach out for more information. They should be able to help you find a community that at least has a strong presence of group members.
But of course, there is more to consider when choosing your community than just the presence of politically like-minded fellow expats.
I suggest focusing on which area you prefer. What are your criteria?
- What health care options do you need?
- Do you need to be close to medical care?
- What lifestyle are you looking to live in Costa Rica? Do you have a family? Are you single? What is your budget? Beach life is much more expensive.
- Are you looking to buy or rent?
- Do you want to enter on a tourist visa or become a resident?
- What kind of weather are you looking for?
Once you answer all of these questions, you should have a better idea of the type of place that will suit your needs.
You can start by looking at these three areas below.
The Lake Arenal region is quiet, rural, and peaceful. A friend describes this area as cozy. Lake Arenal is about three hours northwest of the Capital of Costa Rica, San Jose, and about two hours east of Liberia, the capital of the Guanacaste Province.
Guanacaste is the driest area of Costa Rica. There is a lot of development happening in this area. It is a big tourist area, and because it has many private school options, many families are attracted to it. It is hot all year round and humid in the rainy season. This is where I live, and it is perfect for me!
The Central Valley is a mountainous region located in the country’s interior. It surrounds the capital of the country, San Jose. Now, the Central Valley is the most populated region in Costa Rica. About two-thirds of Costa Ricans live here. This area has the best medical care and the most shopping places.
There are many options here in Costa Rica.
I’d also recommend you join me in San Jose this July for our Fast Track Costa Rica Conference. It really is the best way to get a feel for the country, and you can meet with expats already living here as well as other prospective expats like you to make sure you can connect with like-minded people.
Good luck finding your special place, and I hope to see you in July.
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