Where should I setup a bank account in Atenas?
We asked expats in Atenas what banks they use and there advice about banking. They advised...
"Atenas is known for its warm, tropical climate and is often referred to as having the 'best climate in the world'. Before retiring in Atenas, expats should know that the cost of living is relatively low compared to many Western countries, but it's still one of the more expensive places to live in Central America. Healthcare in Costa Rica is of a high standard, with both public and private healthcare systems available. Expats can join the public healthcare system for a small monthly fee based on income, but many also choose to have private health insurance for more immediate care. Spanish is the official language of Costa Rica, so learning some basic Spanish phrases will be beneficial, although English is widely spoken in tourist areas and by younger generations. The culture in Atenas is laid-back and relaxed, with a strong emphasis on family and community. It's common for businesses to close in the afternoon for a few hours, a tradition known as 'siesta', so it's important to plan your day accordingly. Costa Rica has a stable democracy and is generally safe, but like any country, it has crime. Expats should take standard precautions such as not displaying wealth openly and being aware of their surroundings. The process of obtaining residency in Costa Rica can be complex and time-consuming. It's recommended to hire a lawyer to help navigate the process. There are several types of residency available, including pensionado (for retirees), rentista (for those with a guaranteed income), and inversionista (for investors). Costa Rica has a strong commitment to environmental sustainability, with a large portion of the country protected as national parks and reserves. Atenas itself is surrounded by coffee plantations and tropical forests, offering plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities. Finally, it's important to note that while Costa Rica is a beautiful country with a lot to offer, it's not for everyone. It's recommended to visit Atenas and spend some time there before making the decision to retire," mentioned another expat when asked about moving to Atenas, Costa Rica.
Other Questions:
- What should I pack when moving to Atenas?
- Where should I setup a bank account in Atenas?
- Will I be able to find a job in Atenas?
- What is life like in Atenas?
- What do expats in Atenas appreciate most about the local culture?
- What do expats find most challenging?
- Is there a lot of crime in Atenas?
- Is there a lot of diversity? Are people in Atenas accepting of differences?
- What are the schools in Atenas like?
- What are healthcare services like in Atenas?
- What are medical services in Atenas like?
- Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Atenas?
- What are emergency services like in Atenas?
- Will I need to travel to see a specialist?
- Are common prescription medications available in Atenas?
- How are local medical facilities in Atenas?
- As a foreigner living in Atenas, will I have access to public healthcare? What is it like?
- What have your experiences during the pandemic with the local healthcare system been like?
Where should I setup a bank account in Atenas?
If you live in Atenas, newcomers to Atenas would love to hear your answer to this question.