Kiana Resorts - Discover Costa Rica

Country Highlights

Costa Rica has become one of the most popular destinations for international travelers. It is often called “the Switzerland of Central America”. Combining its incredible scenic wonders, relatively low cost of living, and diverse set of activities, Costa Rica now welcomes almost two million tourist visitors per year. Over time, the investment security, the beauty, and the diverse tourism possibilities attract many of our visitors to invest in Costa Rica real estate.

Political Stability
Costa Ricans are very proud of their democracy -- one of the oldest in Latin America. Through its constitution, the country abolished its army in 1948 and invested the resources previously committed to military defense in education and health initiatives. Several political parties exist in Costa Rica and over 80 percent of the citizens participate in the political process. While it is common for political power to change from election to election, transitions between parties are comparable to those in North America and Western Europe; we have recently witnessed this with the recent election of Oscar Arias, the former president and Nobel Peace Price winner.

The People
Costa Ricans, or “Ticos,” form an eclectic and diverse culture. Though most Ticos descended from European immigrants, Tico culture and commerce has also been enhanced by immigrants from other Latin American countries. Regardless of their origins, the common greeting among Ticos is “Pura Vida!” (meaning “pure life”).

Economic and Social Stability
Economic growth in recent years has propelled Costa Rica to lead in exports among Central American countries. The creation of jobs contributes to stabilization, allows for a large middle class and the absence of extreme poverty levels. A prosperous middle class thrives and the progressive educational system provides opportunities for just about everyone. In fact, the 93 percent literacy rate is the highest in Latin America. Education is free and compulsory for all children and youth. The Costa Rican health care system, modeled after the Canadian system, includes both public and private care providers. The life expectancy for Costa Ricans is the same as the United States – 77 years. This type of advanced health and educational system has made Costa Rica Central America’s leading market for tourism, manufacturing, and real estate investment.

Natural Diversity and Beauty
Costa Rica comprises only 0.01 percent of the earth’s landmass (less than 20,000 square miles), yet it is home to five percent of the planet’s animal and plant species. There are more species of plants and animals per acre in Costa Rica than anywhere in the world. Biodiversity is evident everywhere: 10,000 species of plants, 850 species of birds, 800 species of butterflies, 500 species of mammals, reptiles, and amphibians. You don’t have to travel far within the country to experience a different and unique ecosystem: mountains over 12,000 feet; active volcanoes; cloud and rain forests; waterfalls and tropical jungles; banana, sugar, pineapple, coffee, and papaya plantations; mangrove forest and coastal swamps; and beaches and marine environments that support a variety of water fowl, fish and crustaceans. Approximately 30 percent of Costa Rica is protected as national parks, biological and archeological reserves, and wildlife refuges. In the Dominical area, several protected areas exist, and these areas maintain a harmony with the nearby available real estate, unique among Costa Rica real estate opportunities.

Cost of Living
For expatriates, the cost of living in Costa Rica is significantly less than in the United States, Europe, or Canada. Property taxes are low and there are no capital gains taxes. Excellent food, housing, entertainment, and medical care are available and quite affordable. About the only commodity that is more expensive in Costa Rica than in the U.S. is an automobile because of import taxes. Affordable living is one of the main attractions for investors in Costa Rica real estate.