Why we moved to Costa Rica and Why We're Leaving. Pros and Cons List of living in Costa Rica.

[@Bvsystems]

I live in CR and can tell you that this video is dead on! Everything Matt and Erika say is true in my experience too especially the cost of living, learning the language through cultural immersion and the beauty of the country.

[@TheirHappyTrails]

Thank you for commenting! It’s sad to hear how dead on the video is though. Lol but it’s still a great place.

[@Bvsystems]

@@TheirHappyTrails Every place has pros and cons but the people are probably the most important part. Your family will be truly missed here ❤ Safe Travels!

[@subtexo]

I guess that you also live in the tourist beach areas which are more costly.

[@leejeffries9796]

You started at Jaco and ended up in Tamagringo. I think that you barely saw Costa Rica.

[@TheirHappyTrails]

You’re not wrong 🤙🏼😂

[@Retler39]

For real. Dumb video. Typical spoiled, narcissistic Americans.

[@SisterSherryDoingStuff]

Is Costa Rica a 3rd world country? I only ask because they have universal health care - and government paid college (first four years.) I believe that's why Costa Rica is expensive. It just feels weird to call it a 3rd world country - when they have a better system than the US. Just my opinion.

[@TheirHappyTrails]

Hey! Yes it is a third world country. Mainly because it is still a “developing” country. Costa Rica has a lot going for it as a Country. The US had great systems, but if you ask an American they all, or mostly, don’t actually work. If you ask a local Tico, they would likely say the same unfortunately. It’s mainly expensive because of taxation on everything here is so high. And US tourism inflating the economy here

[@TheirHappyTrails]

But those are really good points

I'm a local, and yes, we are a developing country still, barely in the line of developed and developing country, universal health care works as bad as in Canada, long queues for everything medical, mainly works for big emergencies or illness. College is not only free but it gives you up to an average salary for your expenses if you are struggling, they even pay for your apartment if you live 30 miles away or more, but it requires you to have good grades. Also a full democracy, with universal and direct voting system, even more democratic than the US. The prices are so high because of lack of efficiencies and competition, basically, roads are long and slow, and only a few importers have licenses. But i'd like to add that prices are even higher if you are a gringo buying gringo stuff and trying to replicate a gringo life, us locals do not buy peanut butter or cottage cheese, those need to be imported just for you. And locals usually don't live in touristy places, so even those supermarkets have gringo prices. You go to Palí or La Nacional, and you instantly save 25% of your money buying the same items. You can pretty much live with less than 1k usd a month if you don't try to replicate your gringo lifestyle and don't live in a touristy zone. Us locals can live a comfortable life with as little as a minimum wage or 700 dollars a month, of course, with this kind of money you won't do much, but the point is it is possible with this much, with 5k a month, you should be living in abundancy.

[@TheirHappyTrails]

@ wow, really great comment and info. Thank you for sharing all of that. And you’re absolutely correct on all of that. The high cost of living is due to trying to live a life we are “used” too. Thank you for sharing 🙏🏼

[@SisterSherryDoingStuff]

@ Thank you for your insight. I don't really know what a 3rd world country means. I have a close friend who lives in Heredia. Her cost of living of very small. She came to the US for her masters degree, that's how we know each other. Again, thank you for insight.

[@Kattywagon29]

Jaco to Tamarindo, that's where you messed up guys. Plain and simple. One beachy tourist place to an even more beachy tourist place. You don't have to live rural or in the boonies to get reasonable prices, you simply need to not be in touristy places. I moved to CR from the US and I did a lot of research before I came. CR is definitely not the cheapest place in Central America, but I knew that before I got here and so I was not surprised. That said, I am certainly living better and more cheaply here than I did in the US - Florida to be specific. If you shop for your fresh fruits and vegetables at the markets and stay out of Automercado for everything else, you'll save tons of money on food. You showed some items, so I will discuss those: Everywhere you go in CR, JIF peanut butter is expensive. Ticos in general do not even eat peanut butter. Cottage cheese is not part of the normal diet either. You cannot expect to move to another country, eat the same things you are used to getting in the US, but for less price - it simply doesn't work that way.

[@creativeopinions8250]

Jaco used to be so gorgeous back in the late 90's now it's drugs and prostitution, I can't stand it.

[@gregoryjames1542]

I love that all the true Ticos and Ticas came in the comments to refute your BS claims that Costa Rica is expensive to live in. Yeah it’s going to be expensive if you live in the tourist hub and only eat at places where tourists eat while buying imported American products. If you want to truly adapt to a place you should perhaps start by incorporating more local products and businesses into your daily life

[@TheirHappyTrails]

Totally understand your statement. Thanks for commenting

[@spklyunicorn]

I have lived here 32 years and have watched prices go up and up. They are 100% right to say it is expensive. In two recent surveys, Costa Rica has been rated the third most expensive country in Latin America. This isn't a matter of eating at sodas or shopping at Pali. Costa Rica is expensive. Period.

[@FincaBocalasRanas]

We have been here in CR fr over 10 years, great place there is something for everyone just need to find your Happy Trail PURA VIDA

[@TheirHappyTrails]

@@FincaBocalasRanas yes thank you 🙏🏼

[@robchristian3386]

Tamarindo is one of the most expensive places in the country. You could have lived a lot cheaper if you had chosen another place. I mean magnitudes cheaper.

[@TheirHappyTrails]

Absolutely. You’re 100 percent correct. Most of the areas don’t offer what this area does. But we if did it again we might look for other locations 🙏🏼

[@disastrousemouse]

@@TheirHappyTrailsThey don’t offer an American lifestyle, but why would you move to a a vastly different country and try to live like an American or Canadian? Also, I can’t do anything about my pale skin and blue eyes, but learning the language seems like the least I could do to express my gratitude to the place to which I’m moving.

[@transcendcapitalism]

a lot of this is specific to tamarindo and places like it though, right? in other videos i'm learning that prices can be much cheaper a little ways out of gringo areas

[@TheirHappyTrails]

Yes, it’s about our experience in that area. And sure, you can get cheaper area, but you have to evaluate what you want living there. Most of the other, less expensive places, have less things todo and very very little community for expats. Just depends what a person wants!

[@linda_bertino]

I don't think you planned your living in costa Rica in a smart way. You came to a different country with expectations of it being like a cheaper version of California. Its expensive for you because your shopping like an American, and eating imported items. Shop from the local farmers and eat at the local "sodas", you would have had a better experience living like a local. You decided to live in a tourist zone, which has been very Americanized, no wonder you want to find more "culture". Jaco and Tamarindo is very touristy.

[@TheirHappyTrails]

Youre absolutely correct! The main difference is we had to consider our daughters education, and that took out the ability to live super local because we needed schools that non ticos could go too. Thank you for sharing your thoughts with us 🙏🏼🤙🏼

[@TF-mw4sy]

"Expecting a cheaper CA"- they received that in CR. It is waayyy cheaper in Tamarindo than CA. Cheap is a subjective term though. ❤

[@costaricaforexpats]

"I’m a local Tico, and this video is fantastic for expats. Keep up the great work!"

[@AyaSkye0]

😂😂😂

[@eduardodiaz5877]

COSTA RICA 🇨🇷❤️ IS NOT EXPENSIVE FOR ME, i know C,R, since 1993, i know C,R, inside out and outside in, stop acting like a gringo with expensive Nikes shoes , Stop going to Automercado pizza hut, expensive restaurants, expensive bars expensive gringo pleases, why go to automercado to get Monsanto peanut butter, no go to pali supermarket sodas restaurants farmers market. pulpelia and stop living in expensive gringo pleases, I'm SUPER HAPPY, living in Nandayure Carmona Guanacaste ❤️, i'm from Key West South Florida, in C,R, I act like a Tico talk like a Tico think like a Tico, ❤️, I hope this will help

[@TheirHappyTrails]

Absolutely you’re correct!! Thank you for sharing your perspective

[@TartarianTreasures]

Maxi Pali is cheaper yes. But you're not a Tico bud. Try as you may. These people lived there for a year. My husband and I lived in huacas the oaks for 1200 a month 2 bedroom gorgeous for a year and all over the area for years. It is true that fruits and vegetables and meats were cheaper than Canada. Imported things like cereals are expensive. Go to local bakery or meat shops. Go for good food to Argentina grill or Daria for good food. Many others. Food is good. Walter's and all beach front are expensive for sure. Or go out and catch some tuna and get Walter's to cook it. BTW we have a video of a large tiger shark right in front of Walter's as well. Watch your kid around that estuary entrance. Nice video and yes Tamarindo is getting more expensive so is the world. Good luck in europe. Can't beat Rome. Prices in most of Europe other than Greece and Bulgaria will blow your mind expensive. Paris, Munich and Vienna are a must. Good luck

[@TheirHappyTrails]

@@TartarianTreasures hey! Thanks for the awesome comment. And you’re totally correct

[@TeeCee846]

We just got back last night from CR (ended our vacay a day early) travel internationally all the time..took $1000 in cash and blew through it in 2 1/12 days just on FOOD…whole thing is a TOURIST TRAP SCAM. Not even a desirable destination unless you love sticky heat, mosquitoes, and being taken advantage of!!! No exaggeration at all bc we really wanted to love this place

[@AlohaPuraVida-ie2bu]

Agree, we mostly buy from farmers and local markets, Megasuper is a no no. You bring your American shopping habits to CR, that's on you. Whole Foods was the red flag right there. My wife is from Pokora and grew up poor. We spend nothing on food every month. And its all natural. Maybe you guys need to change your eating habits.

[@WizardOfLight]

Hey Matt and family.... I was saddened to hear you're leaving. But happy for you too! Sounds like an amazing adventure! It was great getting to know you while there...happy trails!!

[@TheirHappyTrails]

Rob! Hey man, yes we are excited for the next journey as well! That’s the main reason we are leaving! We will meet again!

[@sandygo9098]

Yes, lots of gringos who came in the last 3 years have now left.. I am already seeing lots of places renting for a lot less than a year ago. Btw, $1400/m for 2bd in Tama is a steal. Lots of those grinogs are heading to Europe (Spain and Portugal mostly) - where they'll spend the rest of their savings and be forced to return to US & Canada.. so, the cycle repeats! 🤷‍♂️.. imo, lots of "negatives" mentioned in the video are non-issues and/or maybe resolved easily.

[@TheirHappyTrails]

Yes, we did get a great deal on it place, and we certainly knew it! And yes, everyone is trying to find there right place to be. Thank you for tuning in and leaving a comment that adds value to people well read it 🙏🏼🙌🏽

[@MrMC-xg8qp]

Great video. I thought most of the food was organic. Am I wrong?

[@TheirHappyTrails]

Yes and no. Depends where you are. Anything from a store is mostly not organic. Must buy from local farmers markets

[@TheirHappyTrails]

And thank you 🙏🏼

[@LiamAckroyd-y8j]

Hi guys! I’m looking move to Tamarindo for around 3 months and work remotely. Do I still need the digital nomad visa or am I ok on the tourist visa due to my short stay? Thanks so much!!

[@TheirHappyTrails]

@@LiamAckroyd-y8j you’ll be totally fine with the tourist visa if you plan to stay for only three months! We stayed for a whole year and never got the digital nomad visa. We just left the country and then came back

[@LiamAckroyd-y8j]

@@TheirHappyTrails fantastic! So it’s totally legal to work remotely there for short periods without having a specific work visa?

[@MarshallPoling-dj3mi]

About to move there thank you for this. What about the safety aspect or is that even an issue?

[@TheirHappyTrails]

It was always pretty safe, but definitely things can happen. There is decent of drug use, and homeless in Tamarindo, but we never had any issues

[@ritasanchez7082]

It is difficult to compared the two countries, having lived in USA many years, Cost of living: Rent is cheaper here, electricity if you don’t have air conditioning, fixing things in general, very expensive in USA, hiring a person to clean your house, education and health care, beyond believe, car insurance, people don’t have access to education and health care, my son learned more in one year here that the entire years of HS in Florida. People complain about crime here, at least you don’t get killed at the supermarket, church or school, safety in USA is a false sense of security My kids were afraid to go to school. The only cheap things in USA areTV’s, cars, going to the mall and buy things that you don’t need beacause that is an element that moves the economy..There is no perfect place in the world, or I haven’t discovered yet.

[@djawla3821]

هناك بلد في أفريقيا اسمه الجزائر كل شيء فيه متوفر وهو بلد أمن وفيه مسلمين ودراسة مجانا واكل تقريبا مجانا سعر 1لتر من مازوت=0.20اورو

[@johnheaney6383]

We just came back from two weeks in Tamarindo. We had a great time. The people are very friendly and helpful. If you like heat and humidity you will love it. However restaurants are expensive if not more so than Canada. Groceries and wine are exceedingly expensive. We were hoping to find a place where we could spend an extended amount of time since we are retired. Unfortunately it is much too expensive for an extended stay in our opinion.

[@TheirHappyTrails]

Yes absolutely. Puerto Vallarta Mexico is a good place to check out for that!

[@tnzintegration]

Hi guys! thank you for the video. Im sorry you got some intense comments, I understand though sometimes as much as we travel we like to keep some things the same to feel somewhat at home. Its good to hear costa Rica is not as expensive as ive heard it is in more touristy places. I have a question, I am more interested in the last part where you say you would go to europe and backpack while volunteering. I looked intro doing that and the thing stopping me is the three month tourist visa. Can I ask? how are you guys planning on this. do you halesome sort of citizenship or you have a base somewhere else where you come back after the three months?

[@TheirHappyTrails]

Totally!! Costa Rica tourist visa is 6 months now. And for other places we usually leave before our visa is up and go to the next country. Does that answer your question?!

[@UniquePathWellness]

⁠​⁠@@TheirHappyTrailsHi I’m a new subscriber. I’m interested in finding out as well since you can only stay 3 months in the Schengen (EU) countries in Europe on your US passport. Unless you’re European, you have to stay out of the EU countries for 180 days. Theres not a border run system there. You would have to stay 6 months in other non EU countries like Albania, UK, Georgia etc. On your US passport you can stay a year in Georgia which is non EU. The EU countries are also starting a new registration system of non EU residents in November. Follow @JP & Amelia channel who jdid their backpacking European trip in and out of the EU.

[@emilyswanson4617]

My family and I are considering leaving the US in the next 12 months. I have lots of experience traveling in Latin America. My biggest concern with moving right now is income. Do you mind sharing how you fund your experiences? Right now I’m looking for a remote position but I’m curious if you do something different.

[@TheirHappyTrails]

Hey there! So we make money from our KZbin channel, we also do online work like video editing, and other marketing things for businesses back in the United States. It took some time to make that happen, but within 12 months, you could easily be making the money you need to travel.

[@collingafar1638]

We live in Tama....it's pricey. Shopping at Mega Super or even the smaller grocery stores can be a challenge if there's no regular income flowing. The North American items are extremely costly. An upscale restaurant can be expensive too. So visitors...walk with the cash for a good time! And, in Tamarindo, don't even think of shopping at Auto Mercado which is just on the outskirts.

[@TheirHappyTrails]

Yep! Totally correct for this area. Thanks for sharing

[@gringogg1780]

Much agreed with all of your points on this video. My wife and I have been living in Philippines for 10 years and came to Costa Rica for 2 months and looking forward to getting out. Prices have doubled since I was here about 5 years ago. Bring a large amount of cash if you’re considering Costa Rica anymore. Their is no cheap alternative for eating. Even Sodas are expensive.

[@TheirHappyTrails]

Yes it’s getting harder to live here in Costa Rica! I can’t imagine how most the locals do it

[@MeCa2021]

Hi❤ can I register my Kid too the shool eaven we are Tourist Visa in Costa Rica🤔

[@TheirHappyTrails]

Yep! But only private school and programs

[@MeCa2021]

@@TheirHappyTrails thanks for the Quick response love you guys and wish you always the best🙏

[@TheirHappyTrails]

@@MeCa2021 absolutely!! And thank you very much ❤️❤️

[@Sierra656]

I LOVED your video!! Thank you for sharing so much great info. Your photography is awesome! We will all miss you in Tama and wish you the funnest adventures ever. So happy I can follow your journey. Pura Vida! ❤

[@TheirHappyTrails]

Hey Sierra!!! We love you!! Your energy and smile is contagious!! Thank you for tuning in :)

[@stevegunn9971]

Very informative, thanks!

[@TheirHappyTrails]

I'm glad you found it helpful! 🙏

[@carlosvalencia711]

Where would you guys recommend renting a car? I'm traveling Costa Rica in Two months. Nice video :)

[@TheirHappyTrails]

@@carlosvalencia711 thank you! I replied to your email :)

[@Lisa-oy9ts]

I have lived in Costa Rica for a few years. I can agree with most of your reasons for leaving, but you did choose THE most touristy, expat, expensive community to live in all of Costa Rica. You even said, English is widely spoken which is not the case throughout most of Costa Rica. I lived in the Central Valley and almost no English was spoken. You got the most Americanized version of Costa Rica. However, it has become very expensive all over Costa Rica, but much more so in Tamarindo. Also, agree with you Costa Rica does not embrace their culture which is sad. Right next door in Nicaragua you will experience much more culture. And, the food, I DEFINITELY agree with you about Costa Rican food, lol, it's pretty bad, lol. Best of luck in your next adventure!

[@TheirHappyTrails]

Hey Lisa!! Thank you for your comment. Yes we are in gringo central 😂😂 thank you for sharing your insights from being here for a while 🙏🏼

[@TF-mw4sy]

Meanwhile, in numerous other towns in CR I can rent a 2 bedroom for $1000 /month for a family of 4. I shop at markets and Pali. I use Didi, bus, walk for transportation. Less than $2k per month expenses. There is nothing wrong with kids attending a Tico style school, or homeschooling. ❤

[@spklyunicorn]

Thank you for your candid contribution. I have friends and some family who have mentioned moving here and I am quick to explain that as long as they can afford it, they will have a wonderful time.

[@TheirHappyTrails]

Well said!

[@jayajaya788]

I live in New York and there is no way I would go to a Country where the rent is supposed to be way less than where I live and spend that much for rent...1,400? Are you kidding me? Wow...I will definitely take Costa Rica off my list as far as living...maybe visit but not live!!! Thanks for the info

[@TheirHappyTrails]

@@jayajaya788 totally. There is a life style here that is worth it for some people :)

[@here-right-here]

Whatever y'all. We live in Costa Rica and pay $300/mo for a brand new 3 bedroom house. Our electricity, water and internet(combined cost: $130) rarely go out and when they do, it's usually only for a few minutes. We shop at the farmer's market and a local grocery store and cook nearly all of our meals and have many favorite restaurants, several of which we pay less than $10 for 2 breakfasts w/coffee. Many buses($1.40) pass through our bus stop taking us to and from town where we can find just about anything. Uber is inexpensive. We've made many friends and socialize a lot. Our spanish is coming along nicely(actual immersion). We live in a rural town. We know our neighbors. We help with neighborhood road repair, etc. We go on occasional trips to visit the rest of the country in the off season(real cheap) by bus or rental car when needed. Life is tranquillo. Pura vida.

[@marcelus85er]

Tamarindo does not equals Costa Rica, thats like saying Silicon Valley equals continental US

[@TheirHappyTrails]

Yeah, I totally agree 👍 we was nice living there for the reasons we had, but your correct, it’s tourist driven for sure

[@agrarianarc]

I first spent time in CR in 2009 for 6 months. Went back in 2014 and then again this year 2024. I agree it has gotten sooooo expensive. That has been the #1 change in the 15 yrs I’ve been going there. Just so so pricy. And I’m not even going to areas that are that touristy.

[@TheirHappyTrails]

Yes totally. We had the same experience even when we ventured out of the Tamarindo area

[@carmenthiemann1497]

I have a house in playa grande next to tamarindo, I am from C.R. and of course it is expensive at Automercado and the foods you purchased and restaurants you went, I go to pali, go out to eat sometimes to Sodas, where the costarrican eat, not fancy restaurants and I don't go out to gringo places, I am happy you left CR.

[@TheirHappyTrails]

Hey, thank you for watching the video. To address your comment, we liked Costa Rica a lot. We shopped at the Pali also. We ate at sodas and at home 98% of the time. If you compare CR to other countries in Central America, yes it is expensive. It is the California of Central America. But even with that said, this video was an honest opinion and not a negative video complaining about Costa Rica. We had a great experience here, and your comment about being happy we left shows the cultural change of “nicest people on the planet” reputation. We appreciate your comment.

[@DcArmy9015]

I can understand your POV, however what you are neglecting to mention is your research was not done prior to moving, you said it yourself, " was different than when i was here 15 yrs ago". "we expected prices to way cheaper" "it was more developed than i thought". Well you also picked the TOURIST spots Jaco and Tamarindo. One day of research could have told you all this. KZbinrs need to be transparent and state the facts of their entire situation, not just that for a 3rd world its expensive. I am moving there and have been there many times and yes some things are expensive however i will be paying less than that of Canada and USA because of research and not believing all the youtubers out there, if you watch 100 videos of 100 people you get a good idea what to expect. eating out in Tam is expensive because its the main tourist hub in the North, but i can buy meat from a butcher in Liberia for example for pennies compared to USA/CAN, 2 pork chops 750 crc(1.5 USD or 2CAD), chicken breasts are cheap as well but on the sales days SAT/SUN (MEGASUPER) all in all it boils down to lack of research and high expectations on little due diligence.

[@TheirHappyTrails]

Hey, thank you for your comment. You’re absolutely correct. That perspective is the same around the world as well though. We could live somewhere that’s kind of out in the middle of nowhere and live for a lot less anywhere. That is really great insight, though that you commented about getting better prices on things thank you for sharing.

[@joshuadelrosso4526]

You three remind me a lot of my wife, kid and me. I wish you all the best on your next adventures. Thanks for your video, it’s helpful on a couple levels. I’m not attacking your point of view or experience but I think there is way more to consider. Tamarindo is for tourists not really a place to live unless money is not an issue. I grew up here in LA and have been visiting Costa Rica for 25 years and let me share a comparison. Inflation is currently killing us all here in California and the US as a whole, exponentially more every month. Over regulations, high taxes and poor leadership are crippling the economy at the moment. People are leaving for other states to survive. Even though CR is way more expensive than it used to be, and it’s probably still the most expensive Central American country, comparably, it’s still half the price or even less than anywhere in greater Los Angeles. Plus, the hardcore crime we’re experiencing here, the increasing cost of health care, the deteriorating education system, entertainment industry is in shambles, which drives part of our economies health, and the homeless drug addicts, mostly fentanyl users, are killing this city. Costa Rica has none of those issues. I actually didn’t hear you talk once about the most important feature of Costa Rica, the basic personal freedoms that exist that I don’t feel exist here in the states anymore. And about the culture, if you were there for a whole year, and you didn’t even learn the local language, how can you experience the culture for all it has to offer? Your experience and perspective is from someone that chose to live in one of the most expensive areas in the country because you’re that type of American then complains about the price. Not to be mean but you sound kind a spoiled. Europe is even more expensive and without the warm waves. Where you going to surf out there? Since Covid, the prices everywhere have gone up and from my point of view, Costa Rica is still worth the cost of living. Cheers

[@shawnsteinman2001]

So obviously you guys have money. People don't just travel anywhere they want and live anywhere they want for as long as they want, with no plan and just Volunteer. Also you make it sound like moving and living in Costa Rica is boring. When in reality there's many of us that would do almost anything to live there.

[@TheirHappyTrails]

I absolutely understand why a person would assume that. We are always provided for. We trust in that always.. You probably think not having money is stopping you from living the life you want... we thought the same thing for awhile. But the true reality you are speaking about is the fear of not having money, fear of failing, and many other fears holding us back. If you let go of that you can travel anywhere you want, live wherever you want, and do anything you want. When we let go of that fear, everything has been provided for. Truly.

[@gregoryjames1542]

Trust-afarians

[@RobertONienhuisFlores]

⁠@@TheirHappyTrails this coming from the lap of economic privilege.

[@desireerolim8966]

@@TheirHappyTrailsoof, that is a privileged response covered in false positivity. I get what they are saying and fear was THEIR obstacle- but it is simply not possible for most on a very economic level.

[@mkoschara]

Your video makes Costa Rica seem like it's not a "3rd world country," and certainly closer to developed. I live about 5 km from San Jose and it seems pretty modern to me. Central Valley is a lot more affordable and the roads are nice. And eating like a local here saves a lot of money.

[@TheirHappyTrails]

Yes, you’re totally correct. This isn’t a reflection of the whole country. Just the places we lived and stayed. And that’s the point. First world prices in a 3rd world country. Thank you for sharing. And I hope you’re having a great experience where you live!!

[@ronlitzau849]

This video is 100% true! Plan on paying a lot for everything!! I have a home in Escazú and the HOA is ridiculous. Yes, Costa Rica is a nice country to visit, but if you want to live there plan on paying more than you would in the states. If you want a beautiful country and also affordable then consider Columbia.

[@TheirHappyTrails]

@@ronlitzau849 yes, thank you for commenting!

[@susanschmidler3122]

That is a beautiful plan.

[@ptoursusa9369]

Costa Rica isn't as cheap as other Central American countries, but you're in one of the most expensive parts, of costa rica. You need to move around a little if you are going to give advice. I've been living here for 15 years permanently and if you do it right you can live very reasonably, just not in one of the main tourist areas.

[@TheirHappyTrails]

Absolutely 👍 this was expressing our experience with the needs we had for our life. Not all areas in CR offer what that area does.

[@ptoursusa9369]

@@TheirHappyTrails I grew up in the Boston area, then lived in Fl. for many years, now I live in a suburb of san jose in the foothills and it's as nice as where I lived and has everything I had in the U.S at a fraction of the cost. My objection was that you made it sound like you couldn't live in C.R comfortably without living in the high price areas.

[@TheirHappyTrails]

@@ptoursusa9369 where in Florida?!

[@ptoursusa9369]

@@TheirHappyTrails My home was in Orlando, but I worked on apt and condo projects so I worked and lived in several areas of Fl.

[@TheirHappyTrails]

@@ptoursusa9369 oh nice. I grew up in Stuart. So not fair for Orlando. I definitely understand your point about our video being one sided. This video was about our experience, and for the most part, this the experience many people have

[@littledynamoquack]

Good luck in Europe. The people there definitely need a lot of help. :O) As for me, I'm staying in Costa Rica -- I've been here almost a decade -- and will probably finish out my life here, as long as they'll let me stay. I know of nowhere else in the world where the people are so genuinely friendly and open-hearted. Certainly not in the United States! cheers, Michael

[@TheirHappyTrails]

@@littledynamoquack absolutely!! Thank you for sharing

[@GlindaGoodTarot]

Holly here! Omgosh you will be missed! Was so looking forward to the van build. In Europe then? I’m coming for Roundup. Community is amazing but the prices were hilarious. I lived on the oatmeal and protein powder I brought.😋 Much love to you three on your journeys.❤️🤗 (What are your signs😁)?

[@TheirHappyTrails]

Hey Holly!! Matt here. Hope you have been doing well!! Welllllllll we changed we are going next again 😂. No surprise for us. We will miss the round up unfortunately!! But next year for sure. I am Scorpio, Ericka is Sagittarius, and Shanti is Capricorn!

[@disastrousemouse]

You moved to the most expensive part of CR in a local economy affected by expats and tourism. So yeah, of course it’s expensive.

[@wesleypulkka7447]

Thanks for the heads up!

[@TheirHappyTrails]

You’re welcome! What was the main heads up for you?

[@hobokenarts]

Here at the Peninsula in PL for April and have come to the exact same assessment. Absolutely beautiful place and people but as an artist the culture doesn’t run as deep especially coming from the NYC area. AND the groceries! 😂 It reminds me of shopping in Brooklyn…where all the grocery stores are more expensive than the burbs but not nearly as stocked or good. Crazy! Enjoyed learning to surf and eating Poke bowls at that surf house restaurant in the center of town. Best spot has been the Playa Langosta beach near the SF rio near the Occidental hotel. Stunning! Thanks for your vids! ✌️

[@TheirHappyTrails]

Absolutely 😂😂 thank you for your perspective. Yes, Langosta is my main surf spot! That where some of the drone shot were from. Tons of great things, but not without their cons!

[@teridysarz6531]

I lived in CR for 3 years. Looks like you are shopping at Auto Mercado, Def on the Whole Foods price range. Fruits n veggies are grown n in abundance at the farmers markets for cheap...but when you buy "American" products n don't live like Tico, you will pay the price. Tama is Very expensive bc it's a top tourist town. It used to be a quaint little sleepy surfer town but people have destroyed it.

[@marycoop1738]

Wow. Too bad you weren't in with the locals. Spanish would help you and owning a house outside those two areas would help. I have a car and go to Jaco once a week, to the farmers market, and grocery shopping. Have a cleaning lady once a week, a pool guy once a week and a gardener once a month. I can do it on $1200 a month. Oh and have CR's medical. Try to live on that in the states.

[@TheirHappyTrails]

We're glad you shared your experience! Thank you

[@yanceydavenport8657]

Ive been looking at houses for sale there,,ive read its easy to become a citizen..but i heard its cheap ...maybe not !!

[@TheirHappyTrails]

Well it can be cheap if you’re in the middle of nowhere, eating only rice and beans lol. But for most people coming here, yes it’s very expensive. It is kind of easy to become a resident, and no real reason to become a citizen unless you want to vote. But you should totally come visit for a while like we suggested in the video if your thinking of living here 😃

[@linda_bertino]

its cheap if you live like a local and in a small town. Not in a gringo city like them.

[@alaskanstu]

Of course it’s gonna be expensive if you buy only imported food... If you want jiffy pb, mozzarella, pizza, and gelato why move to Costa Rica and expect to pay less? 😂

[@TheirHappyTrails]

Yep lol! Absolutely agree. We wanted to share our experiences. But even veggies are expensive too. Unless you are just eating rice and beans food is pricey here

[@nicjef4955]

@@TheirHappyTrails, I agree, even vegetables are expensive. My family lives there in a tico neighborhood in San José; so I keep tabs on the food prices, and when you compare everithing to the prices in Spain, where we vacation every year, Spain is much cheaper than Costa Rica.

[@deanariggs4154]

Are you guys retired?

[@TheirHappyTrails]

No we are not

[@alimae1651]

Your hair looks good Matt!

[@TheirHappyTrails]

Thank you Ali!!!!!! I was wondering if someone would notice!! 😃😃😃

[@JeffBassir-lo6zj]

Well, according to your video you are no longer in Costa Rica. Your video along with two other videos on KZbin shattered my dream of living in Costa Rica. I am a single retired man on a fixed income who thought living in Costa Rica would be much cheaper than the US, not so, according to the videos I watched. Somebody needs to correct the info on Google that a single person can live comfortably in Costa Rica on $1400-$2000 per month. Thank God for people like you to inform the rest of us of the financial realities of Living in Costa Rica. Thank you for the video. And be safe where ever you are

[@TheirHappyTrails]

Thank you for the comment. And I believe a person could live for that in Costa Rica but would require to be in a place not very desirable for most people. You could definitely live in a local town, eat local food, and live a basic lifestyle for that cost but nothing really near the beach that has good infrastructure. You are right, it is the reality of it.

[@ptoursusa9369]

You can live here for 1400-2000 a month if you do it right. They are in one of the more expensive tourist hot spots.

[@neobiblismo]

Saludos y bendiciones.

[@TheirHappyTrails]

🤙🏼🙏🏼

[@cacawachi]

If you want some racional advice about a place to live don't take it from nomads... Also do not take the coast live and prices as representative for all Costa Rica. The coast market (rent, food, etc) is made for profit from tourists like this guys. Real life in CR is completely different... Do I agree the CR is a third world country with subpar services...

[@creativeopinions8250]

Yep, it's very expensive! that's why I left also. I also didn't appreciate all the small scams (where they add an extra fee to your bill here and there). there are other countries just as beautiful and lower cost of living.

[@TheirHappyTrails]

Yeah, I hate to agree, but that really is true. It does have other benefits that other places don’t have, but just depends on what a person is looking for

[@desireerolim8966]

Like where?

[@creativeopinions8250]

@@desireerolim8966 Nicaragua, Panama...

[@transcendcapitalism]

heads up that instead of using the term "third world" because it implies stasis, like you're trapped at a certain level, better to say "developing" i got corrected about this years ago. def good to be aware of!

[@TheirHappyTrails]

Good call :)

[@nirvana10111]

In most other developed countries, you're driving everywhere... 🤔I think you got that backwards...

[@fonsecaten]

Conocen Jacó y Tamarindo y creen que toda Costa Rica es igual? Pues eso suena bastante ignorante ...

[@ktara1033]

Costa Rica is not worth the cost. Believe me. Things are expensive here. Unless you are backpacking, camping and eating rice and beans. A cup of coffee at Starbucks is $6. The same coffee that comes from Costa Rica. I just hate to be a sucker in a third world country.

[@TheirHappyTrails]

Yep, totally. It’s still an amazing place, but there are other options

[@ddo920]

3rd world country.

[@PhoenixwayNet]

Tamarindo is likely the most expensive place in all of CR. Duh.

[@TheirHappyTrails]

Yes, your absolutely correct lol

[@tammycruz8189]

Its just gorgeous there. But i bet its expensive.?? Safe Travels Family ❤. Mucho Love Always ❤️ 😍 💖

[@TheirHappyTrails]

Yes and yes! Thank you Tammy!

[@djmack8]

I tried several areas. Puerto Viejo, Escazu, Nosara and Santa Teresa. My reasons for leaving are: 1. Price. I don’t want to hear, “ it can be cheap if you live in a hut in some remote area, eat at local sodas, and take buses ect.” Every place is cheap if you choose to limit your entire lifestyle. 2. Zero culture. No music, boring generic architecture, no true community, everyone just sticks to themselves 3. Rainy season is brutal and lonely and lasts almost half the year 4. Trying to have a small business here is really difficult. There’s just not enough humans around year round to make it profitable enough to pay this cost of living 5. Nothing works. Electricity, internet, forget having anything shipped, mechanics, construction, ect. 6. Roads are unbelievably horrible and dangerous. Your car will get destroyed 7. There’s a feeling of apartheid here where Tico’s and gringos live completely separate from each other 8. It’s honestly just kind of flavorless. I guess they’ve just become a place to zip line, surf mediocre waves, ride ATV’s and walk around the jungle. There’s really not much outside of that. You can find a fun rodeo or cultural event once or twice a year, out in places like Nicoya or Santa Cruz but all and all there’s no Latin American flavor like you see in Mexico Colombia Peru etc. I guess they lost most of it when they decided to go all in on being a eco tourism country catering to gringos.

[@TheirHappyTrails]

100 percent agree everything you said! Thanks for sharing all that. We totally relate

[@Kattywagon29]

I moved here to CR from FL and I will agree with you on a few things from my personal experience: 1) The roads are not great, but they are doing lots of construction around here and everyone I talk to, whether they be expat or Tico, agree that they have been steadily improving year after year. The influx of tourism money helps them fund these things. You definitely want the right car for the terrain you are frequenting. 2) Shipping things is difficult, but it can be done, it just involves more steps. For me personally, I just get stuff when I go back to the US to visit or I have friends or family bring me stuff when they come visit. Otherwise, I just make do. People here have everything that they need and do can I. If I want something, that's a different story and so I can just wait for whatever that is. Living in CR has shown me that I don't need as much as I thought I did in the US - the land of consumerism. You do not have to live in the middle of nowhere to live cheaply, but if you want your US life for cheaper, this is not the place to do it and that is OK. If you wanna live like a king for cheap, there are other places in Latin America to go. I don't have much to say on the weather other than there are at least 10 different microclimates here. You just gotta find the place that works for you and adjust - same as in the US. As far as the business thing goes, it's like anywhere else. You gotta have something that enough people want. More so than that, Ticos don't make a lot of money and therefore they don't spend a lot of money. Also, a lot of the commerce is cash-based vs credit, so most of the people are not in debt for anything other than a home or car, they just do without. There will be things that don't work like you would expect them to as compared to the US, I will concede that, but not enough to complain about it. Perhaps I have just been luckier than you. I am not sure what you mean about the Gringos and Ticos being separate. I have more Tico friends than expats here and my Spanish is not that great. Maybe I have been lucky, but I have found it very easy to meet people and make friends and the people here are super friendly and helpful. You're not gonna get the in-your-face culture explosion like you do in Mexico, however, that is because Ticos themselves are not flamboyant in that type of way. No one says to go to CR for the culture. You come here for the nature and the slow pace of life. You come here knowing that no one cares what you do, as in people mind their own business. No one is trying to show off or compete with their neighbors. People are pretty peaceful and family/friend focused. If I get bored, I can just travel somewhere else and get a culture shot in the arm, but there is nowhere else that I would rather live for most of the year.

[@albertwood6030]

that town is very expensive. living in a dif town can cut all expenses in half. not going name brand can save. leaving the US and still wanting US things will come at a cost in costa rica.

[@PapagayoOceanAdventures]

Costa Rica is NOT a 3rd world country!

[@TheirHappyTrails]

It Is not?? What is it then?

[@PapagayoOceanAdventures]

@@TheirHappyTrailslet’s just say you didn’t do your due diligence and chose poorly on choice of living in the most expensive area….you really think Tamarindo is a 3 rd world little surf town.

[@subtexo]

MATT YOU CAN FLUSH THE TOILET AND PUT THE PAPER IN THE BOWL IN THE BIG CITIES HERE IN COSTA RICA THAT HAVE DRAINAGE SYSTEM. IF YOU WANT CHEAP RENTALS, US STYLE LIVING IN A third world country IT´S COSTLY ANYWHERE IN THE WORLD. That´s expecting too much to live on the beaches´s areas. You pay a lot for foodstuff because you live on the beach tourist lifestyle area it is similar in most places where one goes.. ANYWHERE that type of lifestyle is costly my friend. Lots of luck wherever you all go. People should always study and check the costs of life in the country they plan to go to.

[@TheirHappyTrails]

You’re totally correct! I might not have made that clear, but we were aware of area we chose to live in and the lifestyle it provides. Thank you for sharing your perspective. Do you in CR?

[@christifuller8692]

Hmmnn...interesting. We owned 25 hectares in Uvita for years. When we were there it was rather inexpensive. Lunch was $6 which included the tip and healthy eating. What ruined this was the gringo's. Because prices were so low compared to the US, Americans ruined it by leaving huge tips. The locals got spoiled by this and it ruined things for the locals. It's a beautiful country and it remided me of the US in the 1950's.

[@TheirHappyTrails]

Yes, I certainly agree with what you’re saying. That still exists here, but it would be a big lifestyle change for more people

[@brazah4987]

3rd world country with 1st world prices ?.. 🤦‍♂️

[@fredtello]

wait till they have to pay $7 a pound for ground beef here in the United States

[@TheirHappyTrails]

Dang lol

[@JESSE-sd9bj]

All they had to say is tamarindo. 😂 what do you expect!

[@mara527]

We love you (foreigners) as tourists but don't come and want to live here. There is never a better country were we are from. You want beach and that kind of life go to California it's "super cheap" 🤣🤣🤣 and lots of culture 🌮🍕🍔 Yo soy tica y no tengo la necesidad de irme a vivir a otro país y gracias a Dios vivo bien.

[@TheirHappyTrails]

What’s wrong with foreigners wanting to live somewhere else? Happens all the time in the United States. So your statement about the country where you are from is always the best is not really true. I understand your perspective, though. People like us come in and change the locals way of life.

[@JR-ji5sx]

@mara527. So you’re saying give us your money and leave. Thats a very 3rd world comment. I think my man is right then that CR is a 3rd world country

[@M1lk1000]

it seems like you didnt research much , didnt learn the language or adapt culturally , and look down on the country as "3rd world" as youve said multiple times in the video..............entitlement does make adapting to new places difficult....

[@TheirHappyTrails]

@@M1lk1000 lol… thanks for your judgement

[@M1lk1000]

@@TheirHappyTrails de nada compadres

[@TheirHappyTrails]

@@M1lk1000 no hablas español…

[@M1lk1000]

@@TheirHappyTrailsjajaja appreciate the sense of humor and wish you the best .Costa Rica is beautiful and complicated , and maybe not for everyone !

[@TheirHappyTrails]

@@M1lk1000 thanks man 🙏🏼 and totally! You as well 🙌🏽

[@WhiskeyTangoFoxtrot9]

So you're leaving because of rice and beans and chicken?

[@TheirHappyTrails]

lol. Partly… yes… but mainly we are ready for a new adventure.

[@griser]

It's amazing how clueless these two are.

[@TheirHappyTrails]

Thank you for watching 🙏🏻 and for the comments. It really helps promote this clueless video to more people, who are hopefully nicer than you! Thank you 🙏

[@bachiboozook]

Gringo users.

[@jerrybell-zr6vu]

I have lived in CR for 24 years and love it . Yes it is very expensive for a developing country . I would suggest not moving to Europe. It's to close to Russia and other bad actors ..

[@leelou1]

« Like in most developed countries you drive everywhere, you can’t walk, you don’t see anybody » shows you have not actually traveled to other countries « developed countries ». What an American thing to say 😅

[@TheirHappyTrails]

@@leelou1 thanks for watching!

[@leelou1]

@@TheirHappyTrailshaven’t bothered with such statements. Good luck

[@TheirHappyTrails]

@@leelou1 thanks for adding another comment!