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Insider Secrets
Real talk from the ground — written by someone who lives here, speaks both languages, and has navigated Costa Rica's systems for over a decade. Insider Secrets covers what expat seniors actually need to know: how healthcare really works here, what it costs to live well, how to find trustworthy providers, and how to protect yourself from the things nobody warns you about. No tourist fluff. No generic advice. Just honest, practical information from someone who's been in the room.
Comprehensive Guide to Retirement Expenses Costa Rica: What You Need to Know
Retiring in Costa Rica is a dream for many, especially for those who want to enjoy a peaceful lifestyle with beautiful surroundings and a warm climate. But as you plan your move or manage your existing life here, understanding the retirement expenses Costa Rica is crucial. Whether you run a business or manage a property, knowing the financial landscape helps you make informed decisions and maintain your lifestyle comfortably. Costa Rica offers a unique blend of affordability
Teresita Alfaro
Feb 205 min read
Renewing Your DIMEX: What Every Resident Needs to Know Before It's Too Late
As someone who has helped dozens of expat families navigate Costa Rica's bureaucracy, I can tell you: DIMEX renewal is one of the most common sources of stress I see—and it's 100% preventable with the right information.
I asked my trusted legal partner, Lic. Oscar Andrés López Hernández from Expat Legal Advisors, to break down everything you need to know. This is the guide I wish every expat had.
Teresita Alfaro
Nov 27, 20256 min read
Family in Costa Rica / The Power of Togetherness / Our Beloved Abuela...
In Costa Rica, the Abuela isn’t just a sweet older lady who hands out cookies. No, no, no… she is the sun around which the entire family orbits! She’s the leader of the pack, the CEO of the household, the undisputed referee of every family disagreement and the master chef whose secret recipes are taken straight from the heavens. If you think the President is in charge, trust me… the Abuela outranks him in every home! Teresita knows this. Born and raised in Costa Rica, she ha
Teresita Alfaro
Nov 2, 20254 min read
The Costa Rican Hospital/Clinic System: Which to Use When (And How to Navigate Both)
Understanding this system before you need it = peace of mind I'm Costa Rican. I grew up with Caja Costarricense del Seguro Social (CCSS) . I knew which EBAIS to visit, how to wait for appointments, where my family went for emergencies. I thought I understood our healthcare system completely—after all, it was mine. Then I started managing British Embassy diplomatic residences and coordinating medical care for international staff and their families. Suddenly I was seeing Costa
Teresita Alfaro
Oct 29, 20258 min read
Why Every Senior Expat in Costa Rica Needs a Teresita in Their Life
You Packed the Flip-Flops… But Who’s Handling the Paperwork? Ahhh, retirement in Costa Rica. You’ve made it. The dream has become reality. Your mornings are filled with tropical bird songs, the scent of freshly brewed local coffee and the occasional curious iguana giving you the side-eye from your porch railing. Life is good… until you realize you have no idea how to pay your electric bill, your Spanish is somewhere between “taco” and “gracias,” and you’re pretty sure the cus
William "Skip" Licht
Aug 8, 20252 min read
Moving to Costa Rica: A Guide for Seniors
Moving to a new country can be both exciting and daunting, especially for seniors. Costa Rica, with its stunning landscapes, warm climate, and friendly locals, has become a popular destination for retirees. However, navigating life in a new country can be challenging. This is where expert expat senior services come into play. These services can help seniors adjust to their new environment, ensuring a smooth transition and a fulfilling life in Costa Rica. In this blog post, we
Teresita Alfaro
Jul 4, 20254 min read
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