top of page

Insider Secrets


Costa Rica Pharmacy Guide: Medication Names Expats Need to Know in 2025
You walk into a Costa Rica pharmacy with a pounding headache. You know exactly what you need — the same medication you've taken for 30 years back home. But when you ask for it, you're met with blank stares. "No tenemos eso." Sound familiar? You're not alone. Every week, I receive calls from frustrated expats who can't find their medications in Costa Rica. The truth is: Costa Rica pharmacies have most of the medications you need — they just go by different names. After 15+ yea

Teresita Alfaro
Nov 24, 20257 min read


How to Interview Household Staff in Costa Rica (And Actually Find Good Ones)
The $50,000 Mistake Maria seemed perfect. She smiled warmly during the interview, had glowing reference letters, and claimed over 5 years of experience. She didn't speak English, but she seemed to understand the basics through hand signals and simple gestures—and she was such a sweet person. The expat couple felt great about their decision to hire her as their full-time housekeeper for their beachfront home in Guanacaste. Like most domestic workers in Costa Rica, Maria spoke

Teresita Alfaro
Oct 14, 202532 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 13, 20254 min read


Navigating Healthcare Abroad: Essential Tips for Building a Medical Safety Net in Costa Rica
Moving to Costa Rica as an expat can be an exciting adventure, but healthcare navigation often becomes one of your biggest challenges....

Teresita Alfaro
Sep 24, 20258 min read
bottom of page
