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If you are thinking about purchasing Guanacaste, Costa Rica real estate, you no doubt have dozens of questions going through your mind before making this huge purchase. Playa Flamingo, Costa Rica real estate is an incredibly popular choice with people from around the globe, and it’s one of the best places in the country to invest in a vacation home or new family home. Let’s take a look at some of the most common questions we receive about purchasing real estate in the local area to help you decide if this is a good investment for your family.

Where are the Best Places to Invest in Property in Costa Rica?

When you think of investing in a home in Costa Rica, you might be dreaming of owning an ocean-view home. Playa Flamingo, Costa Rica real estate is perfect for this, which is why this area is so popular with families from the US, Canada, and Europe. This area is home to a new marina which is being built thanks to a $50 million investment. It’s a popular vacation destination, so it’s also a good option for anyone who is thinking about buying a property to rent out when it’s not in use. The great thing about this area is that it really does have all types of properties to suit any homeowner. Our properties range from luxury villas such as Casa Symbiotica to condos for families and couples like Casa Mimosa Poolside.

Can Foreigners Buy Property in Costa Rica?

For anyone looking at Guanacaste, Costa Rica real estate, you might be wondering what your rights will be as a property owner in Costa Rica. When foreigners purchase property in the country, you have the same property rights as citizens of Costa Rica. Your private property in the region will be protected by the Constitution of Costa Rica. You do not have to be a resident in order to purchase property here. For that reason, it’s just the same as owning a home in the US, Canada, or Europe. Many homeowners purchase property in this region to live, retire, or just as a good financial investment for your future.

Can You Offer Property Management Services?

Many of the individuals we work with invest in property in Costa Rica but are unable to live here throughout the year. Property here is an excellent investment, and it’s something that many people are considering due to the stunning properties on offer and the good value for money the country can provide. If you aren’t planning to use your home all year round, you can consider renting it out during the time you are away. During this time, we can assist you with our full property management services, which will take care of your new home while you are away. We know that your home is incredibly valuable to you and your family, and finding a trustworthy team to look after it can be a challenging task.

Our team is here to look after your keys, manage maintenance and cleaning, and ensure your property remains secure while you are away. On top of that, we offer many specialist services, including pool companies and electricians. When your guests arrive for their stay, we’ll be here to manage their payments and take care of them throughout their trip. You can be sure they’ll have a fabulous experience staying in your new Costa Rica property, and you’ll find they recommend your home to their friends and family after such a great stay. Offering your guests the best experience possible will ensure your home stays fully booked throughout the year when you aren’t around.

What Budget Do I Need to Buy Guanacaste, Costa Rica Real Estate?

The property that you can purchase in Guanacaste will be dependent on your personal needs and budget. On our website, you’ll find that we have properties on offer for every budget. Camote is a great example of a starter home and could be a good entry point for anyone just looking to start investing in Costa Rica real estate. For anyone working with a higher budget, you’ll find there’s absolutely no limit to the luxury properties on offer in Playa Flamingo and the surrounding area. Many of these homes, such as Casa Blue Jay, are perfect for larger families and have all of the facilities you could ever need. We’ll work with you to find the perfect property for your requirements and ensure you land your dream home in Costa Rica.

How Far is Playa Flamingo from San Jose?

If you are traveling from San Jose, it will take between four and five hours to reach the majority of our Guanacaste, Costa Rica real estate. You’ll find that there are public buses and shuttle companies who will take you any day of the week to the region. The majority of international flights come into San Jose, and the city offers all of the facilities you could need for investing in property in the country. If you do find you move to Costa Rica in the future, you’ll likely want to invest in a car here. You’ll find the drive here to be pleasant, with plenty of stops on the way to break up the journey.

Do You Need to Work With a Real Estate Agent to Invest in Costa Rica?

Yes, we definitely recommend working with our team of experts when you are investing in a property in Costa Rica. As with investing anywhere in the world, you’ll find there are different rules and regulations when you are purchasing a home in a country that you don’t live in. For that reason, we recommend working with Playa flamingo Costa Rica, real estate experts. We are used to dealing with international buyers and can guide you through the process from start to finish. You can start working with our team from your home country, and we’ll be happy to suggest properties that would be good for you based on your budget and needs.

What Property Taxes Will Be Added to a Costa Rica Property?

Throughout Costa Rica, you’ll find that municipal tax is much lower than in many other countries around the world. This is applied at the municipal level and will vary depending on where you are purchasing your home in Costa Rica. These taxes are usually paid each quarter, and the location of your new home and the type of property you invest in will contribute to how much you pay each year. The real estate tax you are charged will be based on the value of the home you purchase. You’ll have to pay this when the title is transferred, and this is something that anyone investing in real estate in Costa Rica will be charged.

We hope these FAQs help to answer some of your most pressing Guanacaste, Costa Rica real estate questions. There’s a lot to consider when investing in property abroad for the first time, and our team will be here to answer any other questions you might think of during your journey. Check out our full selection of properties for sale here. We are constantly updating our site and adding new listings each month in Costa Rica. Contact us today for more information and to start discussing your future Costa Rica real estate investment.

Costa Rica is the perfect destination for visitors of all ages. There’s so much to see and do on a Costa Rica family vacation that the whole gang is sure to be excited for your next big trip here! Today we’re going to share some of the top Costa Rica excursions in Guanacaste to help you plan a family-friendly adventure in Costa Rica.

Where to Stay on a Costa Rica Family Vacation

Before looking at what to do on your Costa Rica trip, you’ll want to consider the best accommodation options for your family. We always recommend staying in a vacation rental on a family trip. They offer you the space and amenities you need in order to make the most of your time in this beautiful country. No matter how many family members you are traveling with, you’ll find somewhere to suit your size of the group. Casa Alouatta is a beachfront home with five bedrooms, which offers you plenty of space for an extended family trip. It has stunning views of both the ocean and the forest, with plenty of hiking and biking opportunities nearby.

Playa Tamarindo is one of our favorite locations for a family vacation. Villa Marrakech is located here, offering families 10,000 square ft of the beachfront estate. It’s inspired by the grand palaces of Morocco, offering you a true escape from your everyday life and hosting up to 11 guests at one time. For larger groups of up to 14, we recommend the seven-bedroomed Casa Royal. It’s located in Playa Potrero and has everything your family will need for a fun yet relaxing Costa Rica vacation.

Now that you know where to stay, let’s take a look at some of the best Costa Rica excursions in Guanacaste. Our team will be happy to book excursions and ensure an adventure of a lifetime.

Buenavista Family Adventure

If you are looking for a complete day out full of active adventures, we recommend the Buenavista Family Adventure. You’ll enjoy zip-lining, hanging bridges, a jungle waterslide, natural hot springs, and other optional adventures. This tour takes you about two hours away from the beaches, where you’ll witness the Rincon de la Vieja Volcano on your journey. Children age three and above are allowed to join the tour, but you will need to be at least six years old for zip-lining and the optional horseback riding. You’ll enjoy the services of a bilingual tour guide throughout the day, ensuring you have a safe yet exciting adventure for everyone in the family.

A Day at Costa Rica’s Beautiful Beaches

No Costa Rica family vacation would be complete without at least one full day at the beautiful beaches this country is known for. The great news is that the majority of vacation rentals on our site are located within just a short walk of the beaches, some even have private walkways right onto the white sand. You’ll be able to sleep in late and then just head to the beach whenever you are ready for a day of fun. We encourage any active adventurers in your party to have a go at surfing. Lessons are available at the beaches, and they are ideal for beginners through to experienced surfers. It’s a classic activity that you shouldn’t miss on your next trip.

Coffee Tour and Guanacaste Culture

When browsing Costa Rica excursions in Guanacaste, you might want to consider a cultural tour for your family. Coffee is one of the most famous Costa Rican exports, and it’s fun learning how this product is grown in the country. In the Nicoya mountain range, you’ll find a small coffee plantation area, which you can explore on our Coffee Tour and Guanacaste Culture trip. After enjoying a traditional lunch, you’ll learn more about the local area and the stunning buildings that are found here. You’ll visit the town of Guaitil, where you can see the world-famous artisans create clay pottery. There are some great shopping opportunities on this day as well, offering you a chance to bring home gifts for your family and friends. With no age restrictions on the tour, it’s ideal for kids and teens of all ages during your next Costa Rica trip.

Rainforest and Sloth Tour

When we speak to families who stay in our vacation rentals, one of the highlights of the trip for their children is seeing the rainforests of Costa Rica. Many kids and teens have never seen anything like them before at home, so we highly recommend booking our Rainforest and Sloth Tour. You’ll head to the area nearby the Tenorio volcano, where you’ll hike through the rainforest and walk along hanging bridges. This offers you the chance to enjoy life in the treetops, and then you’ll head down to the ground to do a short nature walk. Keep your eyes peeled for tree frogs, sloths, and hummingbirds, all of which call this part of the world home. Lunch is included in the day trip as well, so you don’t have to worry about a thing while out on this family-friendly adventure.

Family Floating Wildlife and Waterfall

Enjoy one of the top Costa Rica family vacation tours with our Family Floating Wildlife and Waterfall tour. It offers an easy-going day out, combining a trip along the water with wildlife watching. It’s great for family members of all ages, so no one will have to worry about being left out. You’ll spend two hours on the river before a delicious Costa Rican lunch. From there, you’ll travel to the Llanos de Cortez waterfall, where you can enjoy swimming in the water. Keep an eye out throughout the day for the wildlife that calls this part of the world home, including small crocodiles, lizards, birds, and monkeys.

A Costa Rica family vacation wouldn’t be complete without enjoying a few of the excursions we shared above. You’ll find there’s no shortage of things to keep you busy in the local area, no matter how many days or weeks you are visiting. Most of our vacation rentals are located right on the beach, offering you a great way to relax after all of the sightseeing in Costa Rica. Contact us today for more information about any of the properties we shared above. We’ll be excited to help you plan your upcoming vacation to Costa Rica this upcoming year!

As a parent, one of your top concerns when relocating to Costa Rica will be finding Costa Rica international schools to continue your children’s education. With so many families relocating from the US, Europe, and further afield, there’s no shortage of Costa Rica private schools to which you could send your child. Let’s take a look at some of the best options for schools in Guanacaste, which will help to further your child’s education no matter their age.

What are Your Costa Rica Education Options in Guanacaste?

There are a few different options when it comes to schools in Costa Rica. Depending on your child’s age and where you relocate to, you may find one of these options is better than the others. Here are a few of the most common options for individuals relocating to Costa Rica from abroad.

Public Schools

Almost every town in Costa Rica will have a public school for your child to attend. In general, this isn’t the most common option for foreigners, as they’ll be learning in Spanish. Some people don’t mind this as a temporary option, but it will depend on your personal situation and future plans. It’s a great cultural opportunity for children though and may be more affordable than Costa Rica international schools.

Costa Rica Private Schools

Families who relocate to Costa Rica usually enroll their children in a Costa Rica international school or private school. You’ll find these throughout Guanacaste and the country as a whole. Make sure you look for an accredited school that offers a bilingual education. You’ll find that these schools will vary depending on whether they teach mainly in English or Spanish, and teachers often come from across North America and Central America. Make sure you check out the qualifications and facilities the school has, as this will give you a good idea of whether it matches your expectations ahead of time.

When it comes to the fees for private schools, expect them to run somewhere from $300 to $1,000 a month. This could increase if you choose to go to one of the most prestigious schools, and you’ll also need to factor in the cost of additional fees and supplies. We’ll share some of the top options shortly, which will help you to get more of a feel of what private education is like in Costa Rica.

Home Schooling

The final option that some families consider is home schooling. Especially with the challenges of the last year, many parents are very familiar with home schooling and feel comfortable continuing this in Costa Rica. One thing to keep in mind is that Costa Rican law requires young children to be enrolled in school from the age of four to around 12. However, this doesn’t apply to secondary school students or ex-pats. If you do become residents in the future, you may need to stop homeschooling and place your child in a local school. This is one thing to keep in mind to avoid any issues or disruption to their education moving forward.

Top Costa Rica Private Schools in Guanacaste

These are just a few of the top Costa Rica international schools in Guanacaste. You’ll find that these schools all offer different facilities and educational opportunities, so make sure you fully review them before deciding which would be the best fit for your children.

costa rica education — Image copyright Andres Garcia Lachner – www.garcialachner.com

Guanacaste Waldorf School

This bilingual school offers classes for students in both English and Spanish. It’s located near Tamarindo on the northwest coast of the country, and they welcome roughly 100 students each year. They follow a full Waldorf curriculum which includes classes such as English, Spanish, Movement, Drawing, and Theater. They are very conscious of the local community and festivals, so your children will learn to understand more about life in Costa Rica during their time here. You’ll find that they also encourage parents to get involved in school life here, so it’s a great option for anyone who is looking to be heavily involved in the local community upon relocating to Costa Rica.

Tide Academy

If you are concerned about offering your child an education that’s tailored to their needs, Tide Academy might just be one of the top Costa Rica private schools for you. They offer one-on-one education where needed, and the team understands that no two children should have the same schedule. One thing we particularly like about Tide Academy is that they also offer online classes and allow students to take their work with them on trips. This might be a good option if you are planning to still spend a good amount of time in your home country.

CRIA

Another great option is CRIA, a U.S. accredited international private school in Costa Rica with a focus on college preparation with Advanced Placement and dual enrollment programs. The average class size is 18 students and they teach kids aged 2 through 18. They are equipped with a gym, library, playground & swimming pool. You can contact them to take a tour and explore their facilities to see if it’s the right fit for your family!

Dolphins Academy

Students from preschool through to high school are welcome at Dolphins Academy, which is located in Playas del Coco. Local students mix with those from abroad, which means your children will be exposed to a mix of cultures and languages. You’ll find that the school celebrates global citizenship, and it offers a welcoming and friendly environment for all of its new students. As well as the typical educational opportunities, the school provides many fun activities and unique celebrations for their students. Each summer, they also offer summer camps, so your children can be looked after all year round if you are busy working.

La Paz

A well-respected school in the community, La Paz upholds high academic standards. They pride themselves on being a dual language learning experience where all cultures and socioeconomic levels are openly embraced and celebrated. Students focus at least one block per week on one particular experiential learning focus that is geared towards service-learning through environmental and community projects. They have beautiful grounds located about 1km from the Pacific Ocean on 2.8 hectares of previously cleared pasture land. The facilities are constructed to LEED Silver standards and designed to respect the rich Guanacaste culture and landscape.

Lakeside International School

Just 15 minutes away from Playas del Coco, you’ll find Lakeside International School. The campus is located on a 200-acre farm, making it one of the most tranquil places to send your children to school. There are five school buildings here, offering your kids the space they need to learn and play. Lakeside International School offers a bilingual curriculum, which is quite standard in Costa Rica international schools. The school is always highly ranked within the region, and the holistic approach to schooling helps students to reach their potential in life.

Educarte Bilingual High School

A popular choice among parents is Educarte School. At the Primary level, Educarte offers a learning process based on creativity, and the development of social skills to prepare them for the core subjects of high school. The High School program focuses on preparation for university. Bilingual proficiency in the core curriculum qualifies students for unlimited opportunities at colleges in both Spanish-speaking and English-speaking countries. Educarte also offers a long list of extracurricular activities such as theatre, painting, soccer & French.

Niños Del Sol Eco School

This unique school offers an educational system that is similar to that of Montessori schools. They offer students an experience that focuses on hands-on education and plays. Teachers will adapt the curriculum to suit the age and experience of their class, offering your child a more customized learning experience. The school focuses on Earth, Community, and the Ocean as the pillars of their teaching, and the school is located very close to the beach. Students are encouraged to learn at their own pace, which ensures no one is left behind. It’s certainly a unique way of teaching, but that’s what makes it one of the top Costa Rica international schools.

Education is a very personal decision for both you and your children, but you’ll find there’s no shortage of Costa Rica private schools to choose from in Guanacaste. No matter where you relocate to in the country, you’ll find schools to fit your educational requirements and budget. We encourage you to take the time to look around a few different schools and find the option that suits your children before settling on the right one for their needs. You’ll find that your children will love attending school in Costa Rica and will continue to further their education in the same way as they would back in your home country.

When staying in one of our vacation homes in the Playa Flamingo area, there’s no shortage of fun activities to keep you busy during your stay. No matter what type of vacation you are planning, you’ll find a good combination of relaxing and adventurous activities to help you make the most of your time in Costa Rica. Let’s take a look at some of the top things to do in Playa Flamingo and our favorite Guanacaste tours. Make sure you check out our full range of tours to start planning your upcoming trip!

Costa Rica White Water Rafting

If you’ve researched anything about taking a Costa Rica vacation before, you’ll know that one of the best activities to do in the local area is white water rafting. You’ll find trips available for all skill levels, so even if it’s your first time trying out this activity, you’ll be taken care of every step of the way. There are multiple locations nearby to try out white water rafting, and you’ll be guided through the river with a guide during your journey. Most trips spend at least an hour on the water, but they will also include other activities such as hiking, seeing a waterfall, or enjoying a local lunch. When looking for things to do in Playa Flamingo, this is one of the most exciting adventures to book for your upcoming trip.

Wild Canyon Adventure

Head to the Colorado Canyon to enjoy a day of zip-lining, rappelling, and climbing. It is only about a 90-minute drive from most of our Playa Flamingo homes, which is why it’s one of our top Guanacaste tours. You’ll be surrounded by beautiful nature throughout the trip, and you can also enjoy cooling off at a nearby waterfall in Rincon de la Vieja National Park. This is a great option for anyone who is also interested in white water rafting, as you can combine the two activities within this one tour. Staying in Playa Flamingo offers you the best of both worlds, where you can enjoy adventurous daytime tours and relaxed nights near the beach.

Guanacaste Coffee Tour

Head into the Nicoya Mountains to learn more about Costa Rica’s biggest export. Coffee is grown around the country, but the Nicoya Mountains are home to a small coffee plantation that is well worth a visit. You can enjoy touring the area and learning about how your favorite daily drink is produced. While you are in the area, make sure you check out the beautiful buildings and scenery, as it’s home to one of the oldest colonial churches in Costa Rica. A coffee tour is a great way to see more of Costa Rica during your stay in Playa Flamingo, and it’s one of the best Guanacaste tours for anyone who is looking for a more relaxing day out.

Spend the Day on Playa Flamingo

After all of the excitement of the trips we’ve shared so far, you need to make sure you take some time out to relax and enjoy your vacation. Playa Flamingo is one of the country’s top beaches, and you can’t go wrong with spending a day here sunbathing and swimming in the bay of its crystal clear waters. The great thing about this area is that it’s easily accessible on foot. Most of our properties are located within just minutes of the beach, so you can just roll out of bed in the morning and head straight to the ocean. Gift yourself an amazing hour-long massage for just $20 from the talented local ladies who set up along the beach. There are plenty of opportunities for tours and water sports here as well, but many of our guests just love taking a day off to chill out and relax on the beautiful beaches of Playa Flamingo.

Palo Verde Wildlife Boat Tour

Costa Rica is renowned for its incredible wildlife, and we highly recommend booking our Palo Verde tour to get up close and personal with some of the country’s most famous residents. This area is one of the most important wetland reserves in the region, and it’s home to birds, monkeys, iguanas, and crocodiles. The best way to explore the reserve is by boat, and you’ll enjoy a two-hour tour through the local area. Make sure you have your camera and binoculars with you at all times, as you never know when you might see one of these incredible creatures. This is a great tour for teens and kids, who will be amazed at the creatures which call this part of the world home.

Take Tamarindo Surfing Lessons

Another of the top Guanacaste tours you can enjoy a little closer to your vacation home is a surfing lesson. Teens and adults will love taking part in this classic Costa Rican activity, which will give you a great challenge and adventure. The Playa Flamingo area is home to some amazing surf instructors who will be happy to guide you through the basic techniques you need to master in order to become more confident in the water. Even if it’s your first time surfing, you can join a class that aims to teach beginners to catch their first wave. For more experienced surfers, you’ll find you can enjoy coaching from some of the world’s best instructors, who will help you to improve your skills and technique during your vacation

A Sunset Cruise

For couples and adults visiting Playa Flamingo, one of the best ways to finish off your day is on a sunset cruise. It’s one of the top things to do in Playa Flamingo if you are looking for a romantic activity to help you relax after a busy vacation. While Costa Rica has so much to see and do, it’s important to remember that you are here to escape your everyday life and make the most of your time with your loved ones. You’ll find both private and group cruises available, and they run throughout the day and evening in the Playa Flamingo area.

There are so many great Guanacaste tours to choose from, which is why we highly recommend planning ahead for your upcoming vacation. If you are staying in the Playa Flamingo area, you’ll find that you are located in the perfect spot to visit many of the country’s top landmarks and attractions. Our team will be here to help you plan the perfect trip and advise you about where you can visit from the local area. For more information about our full range of tours, check out our tours page. You’ll find there’s really something for everyone in the Playa Flamingo area, and you can enjoy a relaxing or adventurous vacation depending on your personal preferences this year.

We lived here during the pandemic – and are so grateful for every serene, relaxed & peaceful day we were blessed to spend here.

Such a difference from the craziness & anxiety of southern California. We had never been to Costa Rica before, but it seemed like a relatively safe & beautiful place to “vacation in place” & “remote work”.

We were in such a dash to get out of dodge, that we didn’t stop to consider what it would be like spending 3 ½ months in a home, city & country we’d never been to before.
Needless to say, the ride from the airport gave us lots of time to consider that. (It was a long drive)

Note from Tropical Homes of Costa Rica: Guest refers to the international Airport San Jose, not to the international Airport in Liberia which is closest from here.

However, when we entered the front door, saw the lovely new home & the breathtaking view, we knew we made the perfect decision.

Thank you to CASA DEL MAR for the literal refuge in the storm!

Can’t think of a more magical way to spend an otherwise difficult time (when life gives you lemons…)

Our Visa here is up, so we’re headed on to Bermuda, after this. We are sad to leave, but do prefer the lush costa-rican winter to the hot, dry spring anyway!
So, it’s off to new adventures!

One thing I was able to accomplish from all our “extra time” was that I finally started the travel blog I’ve been meaning to do for years. If you want to see our journey please check it out…

TheLuxuryTravelReview.com
Instagram: @TheLuxuryTravelReview

A word to the property managers:

Pam & Bladimir of Tropical Homes of Costa Rica were amazing & went above & beyond (call them for anything house related).

Hope you & your family have safe, happy & fun adventures during your stay here, in Casa del Mar, too!

Greetings, Sara & Jim

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