Monday, October 30, 2017

Costa Rica's slow pace and political stability attract expats from U.S.


According to research by InternationalLiving.com, political volatility in the U.S. appears to be motivating expats to look in increasing numbers for overseas retirement havens that exhibit greater stability.

Costa Rica tops the list of destinations offering a quiet, steady, and stable political, economic, and social environment in addition to providing a low cost of living, slow pace of life, warm weather, and great natural beauty.

“Costa Rica is a low-drama country—and that appears to be a greater draw today than ever, according to expats living there,” says Jennifer Stevens, International Living Executive Editor.

“There’s no lack of drama in Costa Rica’s landscape, of course—you’ve got jaw-dropping expanses of coast, jungles rich with everything from spider monkeys and sloths to scarlet macaws and quetzals, gorgeous lakes and volcanic valleys.

“But the people have a gentle way about them, the politics are low-key, the character of the place is warm and welcoming. It feels stable and steady and expats . . . appreciate finding those traits in Costa Rica.”

Ticos (the moniker Costa Ricans give themselves) have established one of the world’s most stable democracies in Costa Rica. The country dissolved its standing army in 1949 and the reallocated funds are spent on education, healthcare, and pensions instead of the military.

Costa Rica invests heavily in education, and as a result, Costa Ricans enjoy a  high life expectancy and a literacy rate approaching 98%. The country regularly wins accolades for its happy lifestyle.

But what many expats say they appreciate—in addition to the low costs, welcoming people, and gorgeous landscapes—is how laidback life there is.

This country is one of the most prosperous and politically stable in Latin America. "At a time when it seems like nothing but tragic, controversial, and volatile news is coming out of my home country I am so grateful to have the opportunity to be in Costa Rica where I feel a bit removed from it all,” says Jackie Minchillo, IL Costa Rica Coastal Correspondent, who lives on the Pacific coast.

“Of course, you can't completely escape the news, thanks to social media, but we're also not completely inundated here. People spend their mornings and evenings outside enjoying nature, rather than glued to the television.

“And the talk of the town here is about Costa Rica's plans to ban single-use plastics, one more step in the country's commitment to the environment. It's a peaceful place to live, and we appreciate it especially at times when it seems chaos is driving so many other places in the world." If this interests you check out International Living’s comprehensive guide to Costa Rica: Complete Guide to Costa Rica

Information courtesy of InternationalLiving.com. For 37 years, InternationalLiving.com has been the leading authority for anyone looking for global retirement or relocation opportunities, travel or investment. 
 
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