Costa Rica's climate is renowned as an atmospheric treat. Mild subtropical conditions prevail year-round, and discomforting temperature extremes and prolonged periods of gray are practically nonexistent. Temperature varies mainly according to elevation, the higher the cooler. The brunt of the rainy season lasts from May through November, while a brief dry spell pays a visit from February to April. Costa Rica's rain falls mainly on the Caribbean coast, giving the Pacific a much more arid climate.

Costa Rica experienced a wild 1980's real estate boom, perhaps the first of its kind in a Central American country. But the ensuing rising prices, bureaucratic arrogance, and abandonment of its famed pensionado program, have caused many to have second thoughts about picking Costa Rica as a "Best Place to Live".

But today, the situation is improving for foreign investors. Prices have risen in nearby countries like Panama and Nicaragua, making Costa Rican real estate attractive once more. Cars and some other items are still overly expensive. And though the bureaucracy is far from streamlined, it’s forging ahead with reformed property rules. You can now live in a growing number of inexpensive areas that were once too remote to consider before highway and airport improvements. And if you want to apply for residency, you can now make the application from your home country. (More! Read full article.)

Jaco!       Puntarenas!