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Expat Essentials
Navigate life in Costa Rica with ease. Our Expat Essentials guide covers everything you need to settle in—residency, DIMEX, Caja, driving, banking, SIM cards, and more. Perfect for new residents and long-term expats seeking clarity and confidence. Start living local, the smart way.


A Guide to Costa Rica's Top International Schools: Choosing the Right Education for Your Family
For expat families, the decision of where to live in Costa Rica is often a school search disguised as a property search. Finding the right education for your children is a top priority that dictates location, budget, and community. While Arcadia can help you find your dream home, this guide will walk you through the world-class education options that may anchor your property decision. 1. Understanding the Three Main Education Tracks Costa Rica offers several excellent options
Nov 3


Your Ultimate Guide to Buying Real Estate in Costa Rica
Thinking about buying property in Costa Rica? This 2026 guide explains everything foreigners need to know—from property laws and due diligence to titled vs. concession land. Learn how Arcadia helps buyers find their dream homes safely in Costa Rica.
Sep 25


Overstaying Your Visa in Costa Rica: Fines, Border Runs, Airport Risks, and What to Do if You Have No Money
Overstaying your visa in Costa Rica can lead to fines, bans, and airport or checkpoint issues. Learn about tourist, investor, retiree, and digital nomad visas, border runs, and what to do if you have no money.
Aug 19


Costa Rica Holidays & School Breaks 2025: Traditions, Festivals, and Family Time
Discover Costa Rica’s 2025 holidays, festivals, and school breaks. Fun traditions, cultural events, and tips for families planning travel or real estate.
Aug 17


Cross-Border Taxes for Canadians in Costa Rica: The Ultimate 2025 Guide
Living in Costa Rica but still tied to Canada’s tax system? Discover how to manage cross-border taxes, avoid double taxation, and find local/Canadian tax experts. Optimized for Canadian expats in Costa Rica.
Aug 16


The Hidden Costs of Buying Property in Costa Rica (That Your Agent Won’t Tell You)
Discover the hidden costs of purchasing property in Costa Rica—from legal fees and title insurance to HOA dues and currency exchange. Avoid financial surprises with Arcadia’s expert guidance.
Aug 13


Paws Across Borders: How I Legally Moved My Dog and Cat from Costa Rica to Canada, the U.S., and Europe
Happy dog and cat traveling with owner at airport, Costa Rica to Canada flight, pet-friendly relocation, Arcadia Costa Rica Traveling...
Aug 13


Your Ultimate Guide: Shipping Furniture, Cars & Pets to Costa Rica from the USA, Canada & Europe
Practical guide for expats shipping household goods to Costa Rica from the USA, Canada or Europe.
Aug 12


10 Urgent Reasons to Exit Canada Before 2026—or Face a Costly Tax Trap
Major CRA tax rule changes in 2026 will make it easier to classify you as a Canadian resident—taxing your worldwide income. Learn 10 urgent reasons to cut Canadian tax ties now, from property and digital footprints to exit tax risks.
Aug 11


Why I Chose Balsar Over Uvita and Ojochal: A Personal Journey
Join me, Melanie from Arcadia, as I share my personal journey and reasons for choosing Balsar over Uvita and Ojochal in Costa Rica. Discover the charm, tranquility, and investment potential of this hidden gem.
Aug 9


Balsar: Costa Rica’s Next Frontier for Savvy Property Buyers
Move-in ready home in a gated mountain community with ocean views, strong expat presence, fiber-optic internet, and daily wildlife. Just 20 minutes from the beach, this $279,000 property offers an active, connected lifestyle in Costa Rica’s southern zone.
Aug 8


How to Find and Buy a Foreclosure Property in Costa Rica (Without Taking Risks)
Costa Rica foreclosure, bank-owned homes, foreclosed property, judicial auction, repo listings, buying guide, affordable land, financing...
Aug 7


How to Get Prescription Medications in Costa Rica
Learn how to refill prescriptions, get antibiotics like penicillin or a tetanus shot, and access common medications directly from pharmacies in Costa Rica—without needing a local doctor. A practical, expat-friendly guide from Arcadia.
Aug 2


Why Respecting Property Visit Times Matters—For Sellers, Buyers, and Everyone In Between
Learn why punctuality and clear communication during property visits are essential for respecting sellers' efforts in Costa Rica’s real estate market. Discover how proper scheduling preserves time, energy, and trust between buyers and sellers.
Aug 1


Does Costa Rica Get Hurricanes or Tsunamis? What Buyers Need to Know
Considering buying property in Costa Rica? Learn why the Pacific coast is rarely hit by hurricanes or tsunamis—and what that means for safety, insurance, and long-term peace of mind.
Jul 30


Where to Travel in Costa Rica: A Smart 30-Day Itinerary for Homebuyers and Explorers
Discover Costa Rica's lush landscapes and vibrant culture on a 30-day journey. From San José's bustling streets to Arenal Volcano's hot springs, experience adventure and relaxation in this tropical paradise.
Jul 29


Costa Rica’s Beaches at Risk? What You Need to Know About Bill 22.553
Learn how Costa Rica’s Bill 22.553 could shift coastal control to the ICT—impacting locals, investors, and public beach access across the country.
Jul 28


Complete Guide: Renewing Visas and Residency Permits in Costa Rica (2025)
Learn how to renew your visa or residency permit in Costa Rica for 2025. Requirements for Pensionado, Rentista, Investor, and Digital Nomad visas—plus key deadlines, fees, and expert tips.
Jul 24


Is 2025 the Right Time to Buy in Costa Rica? What Global Buyers Need to Know
Learn if 2025 is the best time to invest in Costa Rica property. Explore tax tips, legal steps, verified MLS listings, and where buyers are heading next.
Jul 23


LLC or Early Retirement? How to Plan Your Move to Costa Rica the Smart Way
Thinking of moving to Costa Rica? Learn whether taking early retirement or opening an LLC is the smarter path for you. Tax savings, income, and medical access—all explained.
Jul 21
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