14 Things you MUST do before going to Costa Rica

Summary

In this video, the host shares 14 essential things to do before moving to Costa Rica, covering everything from passport preparation and financial organization to cultural immersion. The tips include practical advice like ensuring your passport is up-to-date, getting a debit card with no international fees, learning basic Spanish, and installing key apps like WhatsApp and Waze. The host also emphasizes the importance of researching the country, purchasing travel insurance, and mentally preparing for the challenges of adapting to a new environment. These tips will help make your transition to Costa Rica smoother and more enjoyable.

Takeaways

• 😀 Ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months before arriving in Costa Rica, and check for any damages.
• 😀 Get a debit card with no international fees, such as the Charles Schwab Investor Checking Account, for easier ATM withdrawals.
• 😀 Learning some Spanish can significantly improve your experience and interactions with locals in Costa Rica.
• 😀 Install and familiarize yourself with WhatsApp, as it's the primary communication app used in Costa Rica.
• 😀 Use Waze for navigation, as it provides real-time traffic updates and helps with directions in the absence of many street signs.
• 😀 Visit your country's State Department website to check for any travel advisories or required vaccinations before traveling.
• 😀 Do thorough research on Costa Rica, including its culture, customs, and microclimates, from reliable sources.
• 😀 Consider purchasing travel insurance to cover medical emergencies and unexpected situations during your trip.
• 😀 Network online, especially in Facebook groups, to connect with people living in Costa Rica and gain valuable insights.
• 😀 Set up a way to verify your identity with important entities like banks, especially when dealing with online or international services.
• 😀 Organize your finances before moving, ensuring that you have easy access to your bank accounts and can manage international transfers.
• 😀 Mentally prepare for the challenges of adapting to life in Costa Rica, being open to unexpected situations and changes.

Q & A

Why is it important to make sure your passport has at least six months of validity before coming to Costa Rica?

Costa Rican immigration authorities require that your passport has at least six months of validity before you enter the country. This ensures that your stay is covered for the duration of your visit, as many countries have similar rules for international travel.

What is the advantage of using a debit card like the Charles Schwab Investor Checking Account when traveling internationally?

The Charles Schwab Investor Checking Account provides a debit card that allows you to withdraw money from ATMs without incurring international transaction fees. This can save you money compared to other cards that charge high fees for foreign withdrawals.

How important is it to learn Spanish before moving to Costa Rica?

While many people in Costa Rica understand basic English, learning Spanish significantly enhances your experience. It helps you communicate more easily with locals, and they appreciate when foreigners make an effort to speak their language, even if it's just the basics.

Why is WhatsApp such a crucial tool in Costa Rica?

WhatsApp is the most widely used messaging app in Costa Rica. It's used for everything from communication with doctors and restaurants to personal messages. It's essential for navigating the country, including sending directions via the Waze app.

What is Waze, and why is it recommended for visitors to Costa Rica?

Waze is a navigation app that provides real-time traffic updates, directions, and road conditions. It's especially useful in Costa Rica, where street signs may be scarce. Locals frequently report road hazards and traffic issues, making Waze an indispensable tool for visitors.

How can travelers prepare for potential health requirements or travel advisories before coming to Costa Rica?

Travelers should visit their country's embassy or state department website to check for any travel advisories and health requirements, such as vaccinations. This helps ensure that they comply with any regulations and stay informed about potential risks.

Why is travel insurance recommended when moving to Costa Rica?

Travel insurance is recommended because it provides coverage for unforeseen events, such as medical emergencies, cancellations, or trip interruptions. While not mandatory, it gives travelers peace of mind and financial protection during their journey.

What is the importance of networking online before arriving in Costa Rica?

Networking online, especially through platforms like Facebook, allows you to connect with people living in Costa Rica. You can learn from their experiences, make contacts, and get valuable advice, though it’s important to cross-check information to avoid misinformation.

How can you verify your identity with banks and other institutions when moving to Costa Rica?

Setting up a voice-over-internet protocol (VoIP) service, such as Google Voice or UMA, allows you to retain a U.S. phone number for identity verification. This can help ensure access to your bank accounts and other important services while you're abroad.

What are some tips for organizing your finances before moving to Costa Rica?

It's important to talk to your bank about transferring funds internationally and ensuring that your accounts are set up for easy access. Some banks may require additional verification, such as a signature on file, so it's wise to clarify the process before leaving.

Why should you mentally prepare for your move to Costa Rica, and how can you adapt to unexpected challenges?

Moving to a new country involves adjusting to a different culture, environment, and way of life. Preparing mentally for the possibility of discomfort and unexpected changes will help you remain adaptable. Embracing these challenges as part of the adventure will lead to a more fulfilling experience.