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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.
The Importance of Preventive Home Maintenance for Senior Homeowners in Costa Rica
As a senior homeowner in Costa Rica, you may find yourself managing a property from afar. Whether you're an absentee owner or an adult child monitoring a parent's home, understanding the significance of preventive home maintenance is crucial. A ceiling stain in May can become roof damage by September. A weak air conditioning drain can turn into mold behind a wall. A loose exterior tile can be nothing for months until a senior trips on it. This is why preventive home maintenan
Teresita Alfaro
Apr 226 min read
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
Two Viewpoints on New Year’s Resolutions Sliding into 2026!
The sun had just started climbing over the palms in Santa Cruz, the kind of sunrise that doesn’t rush you—just shows up, beautiful and calm, whether you’re ready or not. Skip sat at a small wooden table outside a soda near the beach. He held a cup of coffee firmly with both hands, staring into it like it might offer life advice. Once upon a time in Florida, mornings meant traffic reports, emails before breakfast, and arguing with red lights that clearly had it out for him. No
William "Skip" Licht
Dec 31, 20252 min read
Law 9996 Closed a Door. Here's Which Doors Are Still Open for Expats in Costa Rica
Updated October 2026: Law 9996 expired on July 14, 2026, without an extension. This article has been updated to explain what changed, who is still covered, and what your options look like now. For months, the question I heard most from families planning a move to Costa Rica was some version of "Should we rush to make the Law 9996 deadline?" Now that the deadline has passed, the question has changed to "Is it still worth moving?" The short answer is yes. The tax perks are gone
Lic. Oscar Andrés López Hernández Attorney-at-Law
Oct 17, 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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