Playa Ocotal, Costa Rica
Last updated on Jul 02, 2023
Summary: Expats, digital nomads and retirees discuss what it is like to live in Playa Ocotal, Costa Rica: Cost of living, Finding a home, Meeting People and more.
What do I need to know about living in Playa Ocotal?
When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Playa Ocotal, they said:
"Playa Ocotal is a popular retirement destination for expats due to its tropical climate, beautiful beaches, and relaxed lifestyle. Before retiring there, it's important to understand the cost of living, which is generally lower than in many Western countries, but higher than in other parts of Costa Rica. Healthcare in Costa Rica is of a high standard and affordable, with both public and private options available. However, it's recommended to have a comprehensive health insurance plan. Spanish is the official language of Costa Rica, so learning some basic Spanish will make daily life easier and more enjoyable. The country uses the Costa Rican colón as its currency, but US dollars are widely accepted. It's advisable to open a local bank account for convenience. Costa Rica has a stable political climate and is considered one of the safest countries in Central America. However, like anywhere, it's important to take basic safety precautions. The country has a residency program for retirees known as the "pensionado" program, which requires proof of a monthly income of $1,000 from a pension or retirement fund. Costa Rica has a high standard of education, with many schools offering bilingual education, which can be an advantage if you plan to have your grandchildren visit or live with you. The country's infrastructure can be challenging, with some areas having poor road conditions and limited public transportation. Owning a car can be expensive due to high import taxes. Costa Rica is known for its commitment to environmental sustainability, so be prepared to embrace a green lifestyle. Finally, it's important to understand that while Costa Rica offers a relaxed pace of life, things may not always run on time. Patience and flexibility are key to enjoying life in this beautiful country," commented one expat who made the move to Playa Ocotal.
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RelocateNow Costa Rica's clients who run through the RelocateNow Program get quick results in formulating and successfully executing our laid out plan for moving to Costa Rica! Expert consulting for future expats in Costa Rica who wish to fast track the process of their move by receiving the specialized information they need, trustworthy connections within the country, and high level 1:1 support through the entire process.
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RelocateNow Costa Rica's clients who run through the RelocateNow Program get quick results in formulating and successfully executing our laid out plan for moving to Costa Rica! Expert consulting for future expats in Costa Rica who wish to fast track the process of their move by receiving the specialized information they need, trustworthy connections within the country, and high level 1:1 support through the entire process.
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Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.
What do I need to know before moving to Playa Ocotal?
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About the Author
Joshua Wood, LPC is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange and serves as Co-President of Expat Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange and Digital Nomad Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.
Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.
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We've partnered with RelocateNow Costa Rica to help you with your move.
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