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Insider Secrets


Saying “YES” more often in Costa Rica
Saying “YES” more often in Costa Rica is like discovering a hidden superpower. Skip's point of view For Skip, the proud expat adventurer from the USA, that magical little word has become his new favorite toy. Back home, the wildest thing he said “YES” to was ordering dessert on a weekday . But now he’s here in Costa Rica — where people say “YES” to last-minute beach trips, mystery foods, zip-lining through jungles, and dancing like nobody is watching (even though everyone mos

Skip and Tere
4 days ago4 min read


The Endless Gallo Pinto Debate
(Teresita of Santa Cruz & Skip the Expat) Skip’s Viewpoint “Ah, mi amor, you have no idea what true happiness is until you’ve tasted Gallo Pinto con alma! ” Teresita says proudly, standing in her colorful kitchen in Santa Cruz. The air smells like heaven! It's a mix of cilantro, onions and a splash of Lizano sauce that could wake up an entire neighborhood. “My abuela,” she continues, eyes twinkling, “could make Gallo Pinto thirty different ways. Thirty! And that was just be

Skip and Tere
Oct 196 min read


Thriving as an Expat Senior in Costa Rica
Moving to a new country for retirement is a big step, especially when you want to enjoy your golden years in peace and comfort. Costa Rica has become a favorite destination for many seniors looking for a warm climate, friendly people, and a relaxed lifestyle. If you are considering making this beautiful country your new home, this guide will help you understand what to expect and how to thrive as an expat senior in Costa Rica. Embracing expat retirement in Costa rica: What to

Teresita Alfaro
Oct 134 min read


How Costa Rica Has Changed Skip's Point of View, and How Tere has Enjoyed it from the Start! Lessons from Living the Pura Vida Life.
When Skip arrived in Costa Rica, he was full of enthusiasm, checklists, and enough bug spray to protect an entire village. He’d read...

Skip and Tere
Oct 124 min read


Tico Time: A Cultural Anthropologist's Defense (Or: Why Gringos Are the Weird Ones)
The eternal struggle: Tico Time Tica: “Relax. If the party starts at 7, show up at 8:30.” Expat: “I arrived RIGHT ON TIME and ended up...

Skip and Tere
Oct 57 min read


Coffee Time, Tico Style vs. Expat Style
Skip's point of view Back in South Florida, my “coffee time” was less about socializing and relaxation. . and more about survival and...

Skip and Tere
Sep 286 min read
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