Job Discussion Forums

[free.me]

Thank God for a place like this for such important information!

Let me introduce myself. My name is Marie and I am older and single and living my life without responsibilities for the first time. My boys are grown and now it is time for me!

I am seriously considering moving to CR late summer, early fall of this year. I would very much like advice about women who travel there alone. I lived overseas when I was a younger adult and mother when my ex was in the military, so that doesn't really count. I've studied in Guatemala and traveled to Mexico. My experience is limited.

Last Spring I earned my B.A., so I'm armed with that. I plan to research all the certification information out there but will probably wait until I arrive. I read in one of the posts that most schools like older adults - is that true? Well, I've got that too! So far, so good!

My plans really are to settle in CR, not move about. Yes, I will travel all over, but I would like to make a life there. Teaching seems the best way to earn a living at first and make contacts - so that is what I will attempt to do! I guess my last question, for now, is if anyone has an opinion on driving a car there. I don't have a clue if that is a wise idea. Again, any advice would be greatly appreciated!

For now, good nite!
Marie

[Guy Courchesne]

Driving a car to CR is extremely unwise, for anyone of any age. Vehicle import permits can be expensive, as well as insurance, which you may need for each country you cross. It is also quite common for police to elicit bribes from you when they see a foreign plate. This can amount to a lot of money for a simple one way trip.

If you plan to setlle in Costa Rica, consider doing so as a retiree/investor. I'm not 100% sure on this, but I believe you will need to show a substantial amount of income from your home country.

[SauceMonster]

Hi,
I've been living and working as a teacher here for the past 6 months. It's true that driving in CR is a bit more difficult but not impossible. A former teacher bought and drove here and had little to no problems. Just make sure you have a good Tico friend that can show you the ropes.

[doreenp]

I am a mature (my friends would argue that point ) 50 years young, single female who has been living and teaching in CR for 18 months now. I love it. I have been able to travel, mostly on my own, and have had only one negative experience which has been turned into a humorous travel story to entertain my friends with.

There is a great need for teachers here especially ones that will stay for a while. Maybe this is why some companies are starting to advertise for ��mature�� people. The pay is good, living expenses i think are low and the ability to get anywhere from San Jose is a plus.

I would definitely get TEFL certified. A B.A. and a certificate would get you into some of the better paying jobs at the universities.

good luck and pm me if you want to chat and get more details about life here.
cheers
d