How to Truly Feel at Home in Costa Rica (And Why It Matters)
- Arcadia
- Jul 9
- 3 min read
Moving to Costa Rica isn’t just about escaping cold winters or high costs. For many, it’s about finding peace, simplicity, and a deeper connection to nature.
But here’s something few people talk about: living in paradise is easier than feeling at home in it.
That part takes more than a view. It takes intention.
Beyond the Gates and Into the Heart of the Community
A lot of expat communities are built in the mountains—peaceful, private, and quiet. Places like Toucan Valley Eco Resort are beautiful examples of this balance. And while that calm is part of what makes Costa Rica so special, it can also create a kind of isolation.—peaceful, private, and quiet. And while that calm is part of what makes Costa Rica so special, it can also create a kind of isolation.
You wave to neighbors. You shop in town. But real connection? That often takes more.
Feeling at home here means learning the rhythm of the place, not just living beside it. And the good news? It doesn’t have to be hard.
5 Simple Ways to Feel More Connected
Attend local events – Whether it's a fiesta patronal, a cabalgata (horse parade), a Christmas parade, or a Boruca cultural day, showing up matters. You don’t need to speak perfect Spanish to clap, smile, and share in the joy.
Learn Spanish together – It doesn’t have to be formal. Start a weekly group. Watch simple YouTube videos—like this series, which is fun, light, and a great way to begin. I’ve also found that learning lyrics to popular Spanish songs on TikTok and filling my feed with quick Spanish tips really helps. Go to a local church—even if you don’t catch every word, it’s a beautiful way to tune your ear. Buy fruit from the man on the corner. Every little exchange is a lesson. One resident even suggested bringing in a local teacher and doing a community fundraiser to make it happen.
Invite, don’t just observe – When local kids come visit, invite their families for a swim day. Ask about their holidays. Show curiosity, not distance.
Support, even in small ways – Buying from local artisans or showing up to a school fundraiser might not feel like much—but it builds trust and connection.
Get involved with the land – From helping clean the horses to assisting on a local farm, you’ll find language isn’t the only way to communicate. Presence speaks too. If you're interested in volunteering with horses, you can reach out through healingsoulssanctuary.com and leave your name. It's a great way to meet locals, practice Spanish, and contribute in a meaningful way.From helping clean the horses to assisting on a local farm, you’ll find language isn’t the only way to communicate. Presence speaks too.
Why It Matters
Feeling at home isn’t about giving something up. It’s about adding richness to the life you came here to build.
When you can talk to your neighbors, join their celebrations, and feel part of the rhythm of the town—that’s when Costa Rica stops being a backdrop and starts being your community.
At Arcadia, we believe home is more than a house. It’s the people, the language, the stories, and the care that surrounds it.
Looking for more than just a property? We’re here to help you connect, settle in, and truly feel at home in Costa Rica.
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