We've read so many things about living in Costa Rica and I am sure that most of us already think that this is something that we can definitely handle. Wrong. Reading from articles is one thing. It serves as a warning and as a guide, but it definitely does not give you the entire experience.
One reason why a great number of expats live in Costa Rica for only less than a year and return home is that they were culture shock during their stay. Living in another place after living for so long in another really has its drawbacks even without considering the difference in cultures.
If we will base our comparisons on this article, you will see that Costa Rican culture is based on process, while Western culture is built on performance. The idea here is that Costa Ricans know that things will be done in the future--when will that happen is not a source of concern. It may take days, weeks, or even years, but the thing is it will be done. Compare this to Western culture that demands speed and efficiency. Thus expats are always given the impression that things are done very slowly here.
This is just one of the many adjustments that expats will have to do in order to live comfortably here. If something as explicit as this is something not good for you, then I suggest you get out of the country immediately or, if you're just planning, just forget about it. Costa Rica may not be for you.
What we all have to realize is that this country is more than the vivid pictures of beaches and coconuts that tourism agencies paint everytime. There is also a culture operating in the country, something that may turn you off.
Some cultural ideas may be good, some may be bad, but as a person, there's only so little that we can do to change the situation. While encouraging people to do things the efficient way is laudable, for instance, you still shouldn't get surprised if nothing happens. After all, it's us who's living on their land.
I am planning to retire/move to Costa Rica in the near future. I do speak Spanish (by virtue of being a Spanish teacher), so I know that will make becoming part of the Tico life a little easier. I humbly submit that Americans should DEFINITELY NOT move to the paradise that is Costa Rica, and expect it to be America! I want to GET AWAY from the instant gratification and "it's about me" attitudes that have, unfortunately, permeated culture in the U.S.
If you move there, relax, breathe and enjoy being around the gentle Ticos. It's not all about you.
