When Christopher Columbus first called this country “Costa Rica” (Rich Coast), he could not have picked a better name for it. Costa Rica is one of the most developed countries in Central America with a richness of wildlife exceeding most places on Earth.
Wise investment in the country’s main asset, its natural landscape, has earned it a place at the top of the leader board for eco-tourism. This is one of the most bio-diverse countries in the world where 25% of the territory has been set aside for natural parks and biological reserves. The rainforests are home to monkeys, crocodiles, lizards and a plethora of exotic birds and insects. The coast is a breeding ground for the endangered sea turtle and the landscape is punctuated by rugged highlands, mountains and active volcanoes.
Costa Rica’s natural beauty is equalled by the locals’ legendary hospitality. The capital city, San Jose, is the hub of Costa Rican life and like all other major cities, bears witness to the prevalent European influence that is manifest in the country’s language, architecture and culture.
Costa Rica contains a wide variety of climates. San Jose is pleasant all year round as it is elevated 1170m above sea level with average temperatures of 21C (70F). The Pacific coast tends to be hotter but less humid than the Caribbean coast with daytime temperatures making it perfect for relaxing in the sun. The dry season runs from November until May, although even during the wet season, the rain falls mostly during the evenings.
Costa Rica has universal healthcare with one of the finest health systems in Latin America. Private healthcare is very affordable and is of high quality. Many doctors speak English and have received training in Europe, Canada, or the U.S. There are three large private hospitals which most expatriates use: CIMA hospital in Escazu, Clinica Biblica in San Jose, and Clinica Catolica in San Jose - Guadalupe. In addition, there are many other hospitals available throughout the country.
Even though the per-capita income of Costa Ricans is about one-tenth of that of the U.S. and U.K Statistics, the World Health Organization frequently place Costa Rica in the top country rankings in the world for long life expectancy (at 77.3 years), often even ahead of Great Britain and the United States. Arguably, one reason for this is the slower pace of living in Costa Rica and the healthy, fresh, non-preservative-laden foods found here and the welcoming tropical climate; Costa Rica just seems to be a healthy place to live.
Food in Costa Rica is excellent. Vegetables, fruit, fish and meat tend to be incredibly fresh, more so than in western countries due to the more strictly controlled use of pesticides and additives. There is a vast amount of choice of international cuisine available providing something to suit any diet. Drinks in Costa Rica are also extremely varied with many alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks available as standard - beers in Costa Rica are of very good quality and wines are freely available, particularly from South America.
There are many different opportunities available to someone looking to buy in Costa Rica.