Destination Comparison: Living in Tamarindo vs. Playa Grande

main photo Tamarindo vs. Playa Grande

One of the most common questions I get from clients is regarding the differences between the many towns that dot Guanacaste’s sunny coast. Tamarindo vs. Playa Grande vs. Flamingo vs. Potrero vs. Coco… and well, you get the picture! After all, they’re very close to each other geographically, so what distinguishes one from the other?  […]

Guide to Gated Communities: Tamarindo Edition

title image Becky Clower headshot

So, you’re here to learn a little more about your favorite gated community in Tamarindo? That’s exactly what this post is about. But before we jump in, let’s chat for a moment.  Hi, I’m Rebecca (my friends call me Becky) and I am so grateful to call the Tamarindo area my home. I live in […]

Costa Rica Taxes 101: Property Taxes, Import Taxes, Income Taxes, IVA & More

Title Image Costa Rica taxes

Benjamin Franklin is famous for having said that in life, there are only two certainties – and one of them is taxes. (I may be paraphrasing.) That was true in Colonial Philadelphia and it remains true here, too: Costa Rica taxes are a part of life. They aren’t always painful, though.  Of course, “Costa Rica taxes” is […]

9 Things to Consider BEFORE Retiring in Costa Rica

retiring in Costa Rica main

Wondering whether retiring in Costa Rica could be in your future? Let’s talk about a few of the start-here, don’t-ignore-them considerations I’d recommend anyone ponder before they begin dreaming too deeply about retirement in paradise. And by that, I mean you. I’ve kept these nine considerations practical in nature because, while our emotions are often an impetus, we […]

Trámites 101: How to Get a Costa Rica Driver’s License

Costa Rica driver's license main

It’s no secret that Costa Rica has a reputation for trámites, or paperwork. It’s partially deserved. But the truth is, you’d have to jump some hoops, cut through some red tape, and do some paperwork no matter where you moved (even if just over state lines). Getting a Costa Rica driver’s license is no different.  I like to […]

Buying a Car in Costa Rica: 6 Things to Know and 6 Mistakes to Avoid

buying a car in Costa Rica title photo

If you’re thinking about buying a car in Costa Rica, you’ve already come across some of the common questions: Why are vehicles so expensive? Should you take that screaming deal you found online? Will your purchase include a good warranty? Etcetera, etcetera.  Luckily buying cars is something I know a thing (or twenty) about. You […]