Costa Rica
Why Costa Rica?
Easy, because its extremely safe, stable, friendly, and beautiful. When I first studied Costa Rica, these facts jumped out at me:
- The crime rate in Costa Rica is lower than the United States, Switzerland, and Japan!
- They Rank #5 in the WORLD for environmental performance. This includes factors like air pollution, water resources, and biodiversity.
- They rank in the top 25 of the most democratic nations in the world.
- Intel manufactures many of its chips there and Ad Astra develops its plasma rocket engines there.
Obviously, Costa Rica is not some banana republic like Nicaragua or Panama. No matter where I was, whether I was in some remote village rarely visited by foreigners or in a major city like Alajuela, I always felt safe and comfortable. Also, everyone was always extremely friendly and helpful.
Costa Rica vs Hawaii
I decided to add this section because everyone I talk to that hasn't been to Costa Rica wants me to compare it to a place that they have been to, like Hawaii. Personally, I have been to Hawaii 5 times and have visited the big island of Hawaii, Kauai, Maui, and Oahu so I know the area pretty well. Let me tell you that when it comes to Costa Rica and Hawaii, there is NO comparison. Here's a simple breakdown:
| Hawaii | Costa Rica | Winner | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cost | Average Hotel Room $300 |
Average Hotel Room $100 Average Restaurant per person $20 Average Activity per person $85 |
Costa Rica |
| People | Locals have disdain for "haoles" or foreigners | Locals love foreigners! | Costa Rica |
| Sights | Volcano, Fish, Turtles, small patches of jungle, geckos, waterfalls | Volcano, Fish, Turtles, Rain Forests*, Iguanas, Monkeys, Sloths, frogs, waterfalls, rivers | Costa Rica |
*Much of Costa Rica, especially near Manuel Antonio, is so green that it makes Hawaii look like a desert.
General Map
As you can see, Manuel Antonio is just south of the capital, San Jose. Once your plane lands in Alajuela, just next to San Jose, you can either drive (3.5 hours) or take a local flight to Manuel Antonio.
Also notice how far away other resort areas like the overpriced Tamarindo and the rocky Montezuma are.
If you are looking for Costa Rica real estate, look no further. For purchasing information go here.