Checking things out in March

Member since 26 December 2024

dennisqdwNew member26 December 2024 17:31:16

Like others, we have been to Costa Rica before, but are now thinking of retiring there. Or maybe splitting time between San Jose and New Mexico, where we currently live. We are coming in mid March to do some fact finding about where the best neighborhoods for us in San Jose would be. We will only be there for about 4 days. At this point it is just to look at things with a different eye than a tourist. Not to start any official processes or anything.

Our most important issue might be fast dependable internet, as I will be able to continue to do some work remotely.

I'll look over other posts here for relevent info.

If anyone might want to meet us for lunch one day it would be great to have a real conversation with someone who has been there awhile.

daveandmarcia Serial expat

Member since 03 February 2023

daveandmarciaSerial expat01 January 2025 14:53:20

307

We've been using SpaceX's StarLink Internet access system for about three months. So far, it has been flawless and, while speeds vary, we've gotten almost 400mbs download sometimes. The most current system is for sale here in Costa Rica for about crc200,000. It's straightforward to install.

The downside is that currently StarLink does not have subscriptions available in Costa Rica. That may be due to limitations StarLink has imposed or it may be due to licensing restrictions imposed by the government here. And I cannot get any answer about when that restriction may be lifted.

Failing that, check with nearby neighbors for recommendations for an Internet Service Provider but be certain, absolutely certain, to check with that ISP about the availability of service for you before you commit. Just because your neighbor has Internet service doesn't mean it'll be available to you. That goes for the other utilities, too.

TerrynViv Serial expat

Member since 21 October 2011

TerrynVivSerial expat01 January 2025 15:11:56

650

I'll vouch for daveandmarcia's advice.聽 Up until two years ago, when ICE installed fiber optic in our subdivision, 75% of our community had ICE copper internet.聽 My next door neighbor had it and it was not available to us.

Jenn Dunn Member

Member since 18 November 2024

Jenn DunnMember01 January 2025 21:50:51

That depends on the area, ICE covers most of the national territory but has limited to almost no access in rural places, if you're settling down in San Jose there should be no problem, however you should ALWAYS call the internet provider to confirm if the area where you live is covered. I pay around $50 for 100mb of symmetrical fiber optic with Kolbi (ICE) and I live in San Jose de la Monta帽a, a little mountain town near the Barva Volcano, located 45 mins away from San Jose and I don't have any internet issue, I work from home too.

If you would like to visit this area contact me when you're in Costa Rica, bye

dennisqdw New member

Member since 26 December 2024

dennisqdwNew member08 January 2025 21:30:48

Thanx for the answers. This is just the kind of info I need. @Jenn Dunn, I will definitely take you up on your kind offer. Expect to hear from me around 3/12 or 13.

dennisqdw New member

Member since 26 December 2024

dennisqdwNew member08 March 2025 15:29:52

@Jenn Dunn we will arrive in Heredia the afternoon of the 14th leaving the morning of the 18th. What is the best way to reach you? I'm not sure how this forum handles those things. Should I give you my phone # here? I believe we're staying on Street 6 between Avenues 5 and 7. We won't have a car, but of course can take a cab somewhere. Where do you think we should meet? Which day is best for you?

Thanx again, we appreciate getting your perspective.

yours --ds