How to Turn A Vacation in Costa Rica into Your New Home

Ever fallen in love with a place so much that you dreamed of making it your new home? If you're considering making your Costa Rica vacation spot your permanent residence, follow these expert tips to ensure a smooth transition.

Visiting a place as enchanting and vibrant as Costa Rica can make you dream of starting a new life there, but it's essential to understand the realities of living in such a location. While a vacation in Costa Rica might involve daily surfing, frequent dining out, and basking in the warm weather, this lifestyle is more of a temporary indulgence than a sustainable reality for most people (well, the nice weather doesn’t really get old for most of us).

With remote work now firmly established in our everyday lives, relocating to your favorite holiday destination is more feasible than ever. However, the reality of establishing a home in an unfamiliar place can be challenging. It's important to prepare effectively for your move with expert guidance from those who have already made the transition, such as a knowledgeable realtor like our team at Osa Tropical Properties. Here are four simple tips from our expert team to kick start turning your Costa Rica dreams into reality.

#1. Connect with the Local Community

Moving to a new country because you loved it on vacation is like marrying someone on the first date. Most people explore the scene first, choose some serious options, and narrow them down after a significant vetting period. When it comes to purchasing Costa Rica real estate, this involves neighborhood tours, immigration seminars, and meetups with local residents, which all provide a realistic vision of moving abroad.

There are numerous organizations that provide Relocation Tours to help retirees and families find their best location. Or, if you prefer to scout solo, online communities like InterNations and Expat.com, as well as local Facebook groups, offer valuable advice from others who have made similar moves. A dedicated buyer’s agent in Costa Rica will not typically charge people for taking them on real estate or neighborhood tours, and will answer questions about their area of service. If your realtor is charging you for this service, it might be worth trying someone else (like our excellent team at Osa Tropical Properties if you are visiting the South Pacific)

#2. Visit During the Offseason

Tourist seasons can present a place in its best light, with perfect weather, lively streets, and continuous events. However, visiting during the offseason reveals a more realistic picture. It is advisable to plan trips during quieter months to experience the true nature of a destination without the tourist hype.

For example, a couple who bought a home in Costa Rica during the dry season were surprised to find their belongings damaged by humidity during the rainy season. Additionally, in popular tourist towns, summer can be the busiest time for locals, including potential new residents.

#3. Embrace the Ordinary

On vacation, we tend to splurge, which can distort our view of a place. Instead of staying in swanky hotels or all-inclusive resorts, consider booking home rentals in different neighborhoods to experience everyday life. Having a kitchen allows you to try local ingredients and assess the grocery store offerings.

We also suggest performing everyday tasks like getting a haircut or visiting a pharmacy to understand the local lifestyle. The landmarks and tourist attractions will still be there once you move, likely reserved for when friends and family visit.

#4. Prepare for Cultural Differences

Language barriers can complicate simple tasks like opening a bank account. Even if you learn the language, cultural differences can present unexpected challenges. Adjusting to a different pace of life can be difficult for foreigners accustomed to their usual pace and lifestyle. 

It is best not to apply your home country’s cultural standards to your new home. Embrace the new pace of life, even during your initial visit. Understand that once the excitement of the move fades and daily life sets in, the honeymoon phase will be over. Plan for a long-term commitment, not just the initial thrill.

By following these expert tips, you can ensure a smoother transition from vacationing to living in Costa Rica. It can be your dream destination come to life when well informed. For more detailed advice, please contact our expert team at Osa Tropical Properties for your FREE, no pressure consultation: info@osatropicalproperties.com