By Jules · June 2026
I moved here, so I remember exactly what it feels like: excited, a little overwhelmed, and very aware that nobody hands you a manual. Since then I've helped a lot of people make the same move to Uvita, Ojochal and the rest of the Southern Zone. This is the practical version — the things that actually matter in the first few months.
If you're still choosing between towns, start with Uvita vs. Ojochal vs. Dominical.
Rent first. Really.
I say this to almost everyone. Rent for at least six months before you buy, ideally through a rainy season. You'll learn which roads you can live with, how far you actually want to be from groceries, whether you love the heat on the coast or need the breeze up high, and what neighborhood feels like yours.
Good long-term rentals here move by word of mouth, so start looking early. My notes on that are in renting in the Southern Zone.
Your first-month checklist
- A car you can rely on. Many homes need a 4x4 with real clearance. Cars are expensive here — get a mechanic's opinion before you buy.
- A local phone number. A local SIM makes everything easier, including WhatsApp with landlords, contractors and neighbors.
- Banking. Opening an account can take time and paperwork. Many newcomers rely on Wise or a home bank card at first.
- SINPE Móvil. Once you have a local account, this is how most people pay each other here — landlords, cleaners, the vegetable stand.
- Healthcare. Know where the nearest clinic, pharmacy and hospital are, and look into private insurance and the CAJA once you have residency.
- Utilities. Electricity (ICE), water and internet are usually in the owner's name; make sure you know who pays what and when.
Residency and legal
Residency rules change, and the right path depends on your income, investments and situation. Talk to a reputable Costa Rican immigration attorney early — I can point you to people I trust. Keep certified, apostilled copies of your documents; you'll need them more than once.
Shipping vs. starting fresh
Shipping a container is costly and slow, and import duties can be significant. A lot of people bring a few suitcases of what matters and buy the rest here. Furniture and appliances are available locally; quality varies, and coastal homes are hard on everything.
Building a life, not just finding a house
The people who settle in well here are the ones who get involved — a yoga class, a surf group, a volunteer project, the weekly market. Learn some Spanish. Be patient with how things work. Say hello to your neighbors; they'll matter more than you think.
How I help
Relocation support is one of the things I enjoy most. I help with finding a rental, setting up utilities and accounts, recommending trusted local people, getting you oriented in the area, and later — if you decide to buy — helping you find the right home. Have a look at relocation support or book a call and tell me where you are in the process.