Expat Essentials

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

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.

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.

Discover Costa Rica’s 2025 holidays, festivals, and school breaks. Fun traditions, cultural events, and tips for families planning travel or real estate.

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.

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.

Happy dog and cat traveling with owner at airport, Costa Rica to Canada flight, pet-friendly relocation, Arcadia Costa Rica Traveling...

Practical guide for expats shipping household goods to Costa Rica from the USA, Canada or Europe.

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.

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.

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.

Costa Rica foreclosure, bank-owned homes, foreclosed property, judicial auction, repo listings, buying guide, affordable land, financing...

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.