Welcome to some popular questions about Costa Rica. Send us a note for any subject that you do not see covered. Email Reese or Email Pat

About Costa Rica - Costa Rica is about the size of West Virginia, has oceans on both sides for fishing and surfing, many beaches, and a very comfortable climate. The mountain, volcano, river and ocean areas are accessible to everyone. The Marriott and Four Seasons are two of the many popular resorts in Costa Rica. Costa Rica's lush jungles are home to monkeys, lizards, frogs, exotic birds, and butterflies. Sea turtles nest on both coasts and cloud forests protect birds and jungle cats. Fresh fruits, vegetables and Costa Rican coffee make each day an adventure in dining.

Q & A

Can I own land outright?
Yes, but there are some title restrictions for land that is right on the water.

Is Costa Rica safe?
In any large city like San José, you have to watch where you go. However, most resort areas in the countryside are safe.

Do I have to pay taxes on my investment gains?
No, Costa Rica does not have a capital gains tax for individual investment. However, if you sell more than 2 holdings a year you are subject to tax as a developer.

Is the government stable?
Yes, Costa Rica has a long standing democratic government and abolished its army in 1948.

How are tourists received?
Tourist money is 60% of the Costa Rica economy, so visitors are welcome. The US dollar commonly used and English is spoken in tourist areas.

Can I retire to Costa Rica?
Good idea! Costa Rica has a low cost of living, great weather and excellent medical care.

Do I need special medical shots to visit?
No

Can I drink the water?
Yes

Can I get a mortgage?
Technically it is possible to finance, but quite difficult to cut through the red tape. This is a cash real estate market.

Do they have hurricanes?
No, but there can be storms during the rainy season.

Can I use my credit cards?
Yes

Are they good hotels?
Many! Marriott, Four Seasons, Hampton Inn, and a variety of Boutique Hotels.

What about the local real estate market?
It is very active with prices all over the board. Misrepresentation of facts are common. Stick to name brands.

Will my cell phone work?
Probably not, but ask your carrier before you bring it. You can activate service in Costa Rica with T-Mobile, but must call them before you arrive.

What are the seasons?
Dry season: November-May. Rainy season: June-October.

How is the transportation system?
Buses go everywhere, inland commuter planes are plentiful and safe, and rental cars are available. The roads are paved in the cities, but along the coast they are dirt and gravel.

How is the Pacific Coast different than the Caribbean?
Most resorts are on the Pacific Ocean and the topography is more tourist friendly. The Caribbean coast has more wetlands and less tourist infrastructure.

Is the country wired?
Yes, and internet cafes are plentiful.

What is a hectare measure of land?
1 hectare = 2.5 acres.

What are some demographics?
96% of the country is Catholic and 95% are literate.

What is the standard of living?
Costa Rica has a strong working class of good citizens. Many are employed in the tourist trade, and increasingly in the IT service industry. Intel and Hewlett Packard employ 1000's of people.

How about rental cars?
Plentiful and expensive. Get full insurance.

Where are the most popular beaches?
There are 3 main tourist areas: The Nicoya Peninsula, The Central Pacific (Jaco Beach area) and the Osa Peninsula area.

Is Costa Rica overdeveloped?
No, there is a lot of available land.

Costa Rica Guide

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