1. By Air a) International Getting to Northwest Guanacaste became considerably easier for North Americans in 2002, when the Daniel Oduber International Airport opened. Charter flights arrive there from the UK and the government is at the moment trying to concession out an expansion of the airport. Being within the “magic hour” of travel time

Northwest Guanacaste is the hottest and driest region of Costa Rica, made more so by the area’s deforestation a few decades ago to make room for agriculture. It has its own arid beauty very distinct from the rest of Costa Rica. The weather is more humid, and the lower precipitation makes it a dependable tourist

Of all the beach areas in Costa Rica, the Pacific coast of the northwest Guanacaste province is the one that has undergone the most explosive development, with the widest range of options and the most expensive properties in the country. For the last few years, developers have bee pouring millions of dollars into beach- and

The Central Valley is a great choice for people with families, older people who wish to live near medical services, and people who prefer a cooler climate and a more cosmopolitan culture. Nearly everything is available in the Central Valley, from rural living and gorgeous views to loft-style condos within walking distance of bars and

The Central Valley is the biggest rental market in the country because it serves the majority of the population. Prices are all over the board, and there is huge variety in most of the areas covered in this section. Most foreigners rent in the Escazú area, but there are plenty of (cheaper) options elsewhere. If

The Central Valley’s increasingly urban nature means that crime is becoming more common. Pick-pocketing, petty theft, and car break-ins are increasingly common not only in the center of San José, but in the surrounding suburbs. Unless you are living in a secure gated community, you are at risk of a break-in. For more information on

Launching a business in the Central Valley is perhaps not as easy as it is in less developed parts of the country. While there is always a good chance that you can use your professional experience anywhere in Costa Rica, the market in the Central Valley is more crowded, industry is more developed, and most