Pros and Cons of Living in Mal Pais
Last updated on May 03, 2024
Summary: The pros of living in Mal Pais, Costa Rica include its stunning natural beauty, with lush rainforests, stunning beaches, and a variety of wildlife. The area is also known for its laid-back atmosphere and friendly locals. Additionally, the cost of living is relatively low, making it an attractive option for those looking to live on a budget. The cons of living in Mal Pais include the lack of infrastructure and amenities, such as reliable public transportation and modern medical facilities. Additionally, the area is prone to natural disasters, such as hurricanes and earthquakes, which can cause significant damage. Finally, the area is remote, making it difficult to access other parts of the country.
What are the pros and cons of living in Mal Pais?
Expats, digital nomads and retirees living in Mal Pais responded:
"It's true that Mal Pais is growing but it still is a tiny fishing village and somewhat remote. One road, one grocery store and two restaurants. The beaches are beautiful and you see or experience something new almost everyday. One day a calf snuck up to my husband on the beach and licked the back of his arm. He was so surprised at the roughness of it's tongue. He said hello and then it's mother moo's and he ran back to mom. Once in a while we see whales and this causes quite a stir on the beach. We watch the fishing boats come in from their day of fishing, knowing they will be selling fresh fish just a short walk away. There are many men who kayak early each morning to catch fish as well. One I know smokes his fish and sells it to the local market. It's a simple life. People bake, make crafts, paint and give lessons for means of income. We don't need much to be happy here," explained one expat in Mal Pais.
"Expats and digital nomads living in Mal Pais enjoy the laid-back atmosphere and the stunning natural beauty of the area. They appreciate the friendly locals and the abundance of outdoor activities, such as surfing, hiking, and swimming. They also enjoy the affordable cost of living and the easy access to amenities such as grocery stores and restaurants. On the other hand, some expats and digital nomads may find the lack of reliable internet access and the limited nightlife to be drawbacks," said one expat in Mal Pais.
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What do expats in Mal Pais appreciate most about the local culture?
"Expats in Mal Pais appreciate the laid back atmosphere and the close knit community feel of the town. They love the relaxed, tropical lifestyle with plenty of opportunities to enjoy swimming, surfing, kayaking, hiking and other activities. They also appreciate the stunning natural beauty of the area, with lush tropical forests, volcanic mountains, secluded beaches and the stunning sunsets. People in the area have an easy going and friendly attitude, often helping out and being very welcoming, further adding to its charm," said one expat in Mal Pais.
"We love the Pura Vida vibe. Some people say it doesn't exist, but for us we notice the simple laid back attitude everyday. We love the local people and have made many friends. We appreciate the simplicity. I especially love the surprises! For example, the horses walking down the street grazing on the graze unattended. The iguana that lives on my roof. The monkeys steeling my avocado and then pooping in my floor after I hid all the fruit. The fruit bat that fell on my computer keyboard out of nowhere! I love the "you don't see that everyday!" aspect of life here," said a person living in Mal Pais.
Costa Rica Legal Residency is an articulately bi-lingual boutique firm with 15 + years of successful experience and exclusive focus on Costa Rica Temporary and Permanent Residency, Renewals, Digital Nomad, and Citizenship. Located minutes from the Department of Immigration.
Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.
Costa Rica Legal Residency is an articulately bi-lingual boutique firm with 15 + years of successful experience and exclusive focus on Costa Rica Temporary and Permanent Residency, Renewals, Digital Nomad, and Citizenship. Located minutes from the Department of Immigration.
Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.
What do expats find most challenging?
"Expats often find adjusting to a new culture, unfamiliar languages, and different ways of doing things to be among the most challenging aspects of relocating or traveling abroad. Furthermore, navigating complex visa and immigration requirements can present a challenge, as can finding the right medical, housing, and financial services in a new country. Additionally, maintaining relationships with family and friends back home, as well as making new friendships, can be a challenge, as can finding the right job or setting up a new business. Furthermore, everyday living expenses and a new way of life can also present challenges," explained one expat.
"Honestly the most challenging aspect of the new culture is having to still deal with the US on some level. Using Skype to make US phone calls is extremely challenging. I needed my laptop repaired, the taxi took me to the repair shop but the "guy" who does the repair was not there. The taxi driver made a phone call and found another guy who repairs computers. After driving up a narrow dirt road and missing the turn we finally arrived at a private home. A young man approached the car and told me in English " sure i can fix" uh okay I replied. We drove away and I had an uneasy feeling that I just handed over my laptop to a stranger. Several days later and a few desperate emails I got my laptop back in good working order. Everyone I asked about the repair man's good standing was answered with " of yeah I know him, hes a good guy." Another challenge at first was finding certain products in the local grocery store. We have adapted to buying more local products, but one time I asked the store if they had decaf coffee? They promised to order some for me. Everyday or so I would ask "did you get the decaf? The response was "maybe tomorrow" in Spanish of course. I finally gave up asking," said one person in Mal Pais.
About the Author
Joshua Wood, LPC joined Expat Exchange in 2000 and serves as one of its Co-Presidents. He is also one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.
Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.
Other Questions:
- What do I need to know before moving to Mal Pais?
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- What is the average cost of housing in Mal Pais?
- How do I meet people in Mal Pais?
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- Will I be able to find a job in Mal Pais?
- What is life like as an expat in your area?
- What do people like (and dislike) about Mal Pais?
- What type of social life can someone expect in Mal Pais?
- What is the social scene like in Mal Pais?
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- What are medical services in Mal Pais like?
- Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Mal Pais?
- Is the cost of living in Mal Pais high?
- What are the visa & residency requirements in Mal Pais?
- Why do people move to Mal Pais?