Living in Tamarindo, Costa Rica is an ultimate dream for a number of people. Either the cold weather from the home country or the rushed lifestyle convinces people to look for a better lifestyle elsewhere. Costa Rica has been identified as one of the best Central American countries for living. It has a reasonable standard of living compared to other area countries. It has a reasonably low crime rate. There is no army. The medical system provides good quality service. The schools are decent. And, the list goes on.

Living in Tamarindo is possible for many ex pats because there are a number of western-style services available in the immediate area.

The local area around Tamarindo offers several public schools for your children. Tamarindo has an international school that includes grades kindergarten through 12. And, there's a U.S. accredited boarding school in Escazu near San Jose.

The cost of living in Costa Rica is a little bit less than in a western country. However, it is not as inexpensive as some might believe. A healthy budget for a family would be about US$1,500-2,000 per month. Foreigners do not pay taxes on income that they receive from foreign sources. The cost of living is also impacted by the fact that Tamarindo is an international tourist destination which has driven prices up. And, similar to smaller towns throughout western nations, it costs more to purchase goods because the big box stores don't exist in these small destinations.

Real estate for sale in Tamarindo

Real estate laws are different in Costa Rica than in your home country. It is important to find a reputable real estate agent and a good lawyer, when buying real estate. Be sure to find a lawyer that is independent of your realtor to ensure that your purchase is legitimate. Research the property that you are buying. It's best to talk to neighbors and people who have lived in the area for awhile. It is a good idea to understand property title guarantees so that you don't buy a property that doesn't have a legal title.

Rent before you leap

Moving and living in another country is not always what it is cracked up to be. I lived in Mexico for several years and found that I could not deal with the red tape, the bribery and the manana syndrome that is prevalent in Latin countries. Before you sell everything you own and move to Costa Rica, try it out first. Rent a condo or an apartment for a significant period of time. Test the waters, so to speak, before you commit. It is much easier to sell real estate in California than in Costa Rica. You may own your Costa Rican home for many years longer than you care to live there for. So, don't make a mistake. Try it out first.

Tamarindo travel planning resources and tools as follows:

• Tamarindo Costa Rica is a town on the Pacific Coast in the Nicoya Peninsula. It was a surf town but is growing in popularity with international vacationers.
• Tamarindo Costa Rica Hotels include a solid variety of styles and options.
• Tamarindo All Inclusive Resorts are limited but there are several to choose.
• Tamarindo Condo Vacation Rentals include condos and vacation rentals and many that meet western standards.
• Tamarindo Villas are luxurious and provide a perfect setting for a beach vacation.
• Tamarindo Living is a popular option with many international ex pats. Check out why.
• Surfing Tamarindo is popular especially during the rainy season when the breaks are best.