It was bound to happen - Tico Time Day 6 in Puerto Viejo - Relocation to Costa Rica

Things were going pretty well for Ashlea and the group...and then....it happened. The thing they've all warned us about and one of the biggest obstacles US expats have to face in Costa Rica.

It's called "Tico Time".

It is one of the biggest reasons why people return to the states.

In Costa Rica the Ticos don't feel the urgency to be restricted to a time schedule. Their lives are more relaxed and much less stressful than ours. They do things on their own schedule (which often means that it does not coincide with our schedule). They may tell you 8:30 on Monday and show up on Wednesday at noon. I guess you just never know.

Here in the US we are the exact opposite. We are taught from an early age to be prompt and we are pretty regimented where time is concerned. This difference is something that can drive some folks absolutely crazy and many will never adjust.

Today was a day Ashlea was looking forward to (and me too). This was the day she was to meet with the realtor. Set for 8:30 am. Time to check out the available housing in the area.  After all, this was one of the major reasons for her trip.  And, I was hoping to get some idea of housing costs in the area and also a chance to see what the houses really look like (thus far both of these facts have evaded us).

Well, for reasons ranging from unexpected early morning visitors, to lack of transportation the meeting did not happen on schedule. 

No houses were ever seen on the inside

But...the meeting did happen, finally

And we learned several things. 

If you're looking for a place to rent in Puerto Viejo, it's probably not a good idea to talk about it in public. In the US we like to put the info out in hopes that someone will know someone who knows someone and we can find a place.

In Puerto Viejo, telling someone will mean that they will tell someone who will tell someone who will tell someone who will tell someone and it will never stop.  It might get you a marriage proposal but probably will not result in you a finding a house! 

Instead find a reputable person and then keep it private! So now Ashlea (hopefully) has found just such a person.  If it works out, she can pass them along to me. 

Oh and BTW - Long term rentals are pretty difficult to come by in the Puerto Viejo area because during the high season, owners want their properties vacant so they can rent them short term and charge higher rents.  During the high season is when most of the money is made in that area.  Makes sense. So, you can't  really blame them. However that may cause some problems for those of us looking to rent all year.

So what are we going to do? At this point I have no idea.

Maybe this is a good time to start taking some advice from our Tico friends. 

Tico Time really means to slow down and go with the flow. It is the quiet acceptance of the well-meaning people of Costa Rica who have their own priorities.

Relax.  

What's the rush

It will all work itself out in the end 

Boomer Retirement Abroad - Looking for an apartment in Buenos Aires? HGTV full episode

Argentina is a wonderful destination for those considering a retirement overseas. It is a beautiful country that is often compared to Europe for its culture. In other words, retiring in Argentina can be a comparable and affordable alternative for those who have dreamt of retiring in Europe but are unwilling to yield to Europe’s high cost of living.

An Economical Retirement in Buenos Aires or the Argentine CountrysideThe cost of living in Argentina is quite low, so your retirement funds will be able to stretch a long way in this part of the world.

In Argentina, you can live in the gorgeous metropolis of Buenos Aires, which is full of culture, art, and museums. Or if you are searching for more tranquility for your retirement, then you can set yourself up on a stunning private ranch in the beautiful Argentine countryside. Argentina is modern, developed country with very accessible and affordable health care. There are also lots of great real estate opportunities throughout the nation, both in Buenos Aires and the countryside. Prices that are so low, you will most likely be able to afford a retirement property in Argentina that is far superior to what you could purchase for the same price in the United States.

source: International Living

Take a look at Marisa and Mark as they search for a home and office in Buenos Aires

Helpful Tip:

Speaking Spanish Is Not a Prerequisite for Retiring in Argentina

When you retire to Argentina, it is nice to learn some basic Spanish because it will help make life easier and allow you to engage more with the local Argentines. But can you get along without Spanish? Yes. In the better hotels, restaurants, and shops, there will be at least one person on the staff who speaks excellent English. If the help is under 30 years old, they will typically speak some English from their schooling. Your only problem will be in small establishments and most taxis. But if you have the hotel or store phone a cab for you, they can tell the driver in Spanish where you want to go. Everyone is polite and willing to help, so speaking Spanish is a luxury, not a necessity.