Digital Nomad Life in Ojochal, Costa Rica
Summary: Ojochal, Costa Rica is a popular destination for digital nomads due to its stunning natural beauty, low cost of living, and laid-back lifestyle. The best neighborhood to live in Ojochal is Playa Tortuga, which is known for its stunning beaches, lush jungle, and friendly locals. The approximate population of Ojochal is around 4,000 people. The weather in Ojochal, Costa Rica is typically warm and humid, with temperatures ranging from the mid-70s to the mid-80s Fahrenheit (24-30 Celsius). The monthly cost of living for a digital nomad in Ojochal is relatively low, with basic expenses such as food, transportation, and utilities costing around $500-$700 USD per month. The cost of renting a centrally located, one-bedroom apartment with high-speed internet access in Ojochal is around $500-$700 USD per month.
How do I meet people in Ojochal?
When we asked people living in Ojochal about club and activities where newcomers can meet others, they responded:
"Expats in Ojochal often join local clubs and activities such as yoga, Spanish classes, and cooking classes. Expats can also join local book clubs, hiking groups, and volunteer organizations. Additionally, expats can meet people by attending local events such as farmers markets, art shows, and music festivals. Expats can also meet people by visiting local restaurants, bars, and cafes. Finally, expats can meet people by attending church services or joining local churches," said one person in Ojochal.
"There is a bunch of expat organizations in Costa Rica to welcome newcomers. The largest is ACRC. In our town there is a group called the Coasta Bellena Women's Club that has about 400 members. We have a great international expat community. Ojochal, Uvita and Dominical are considered to be the southern Pacific Region of Costa Rica. The cost of living is lower here than in many other parts of Costa Rica and the pace of life is slower and more relaxing. We have a pot luck brunch in town, pizza night at a local restaurant (Gringo Mikes) and a local farmer's market on Saturdays," remarked one foreigner who made the move to Ojochal.
What is life like in Ojochal?
When we asked people living in Ojochal what life is like and how people spend their time, they said:
"Life for expats and digital nomads in Ojochal is filled with adventure and relaxation. The small town is located on the southern Pacific coast of Costa Rica and is known for its lush rainforest, stunning beaches, and friendly locals. Expats and digital nomads can enjoy the laid-back atmosphere of the town, as well as the many outdoor activities available in the area. The cost of living is relatively low, making it an attractive destination for those looking to live and work remotely. The town also offers a variety of restaurants, cafes, and bars, making it easy to socialize and meet new people. With its stunning natural beauty and relaxed atmosphere, Ojochal is an ideal destination for expats and digital nomads looking for a unique and fulfilling experience," remarked one member in Ojochal.
"This area is more like a village. We have a very international crowd; Dutch, French, Canadian, American, Estonian, Indonesian, etc. We have a great mix of restaurants and the area is reputed to be a culinary high point of the country. Lives revolve around social events more than work, we have a local soccer team that competes with the Ticos in town and there is a bull ring for our annual bull riding contest. Many are involved in philanthropic endeavors, helping the local schools, an orphanage from San Isidro En General, etc," explained one expat living in Ojochal, Costa Rica.
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.
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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.
Where should I live in Ojochal?
We asked digital nomads and expats how they chose their neighborhood and found a place to live. They answered:
"One way to find a place to live in Ojochal is to search online for rental listings. There are many websites that offer listings for long-term and short-term rentals in the area. Additionally, you can contact local real estate agents who specialize in the area to help you find a place to live. You can also ask around in the community to see if anyone knows of any available rentals. Finally, you can look for "For Rent" signs in the area," explained one expat living in Ojochal, Costa Rica.
What do I need to know before moving to Ojochal?
When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Ojochal, they said:
"Leave most everything where you came from, sell it off, come start a new life in Paradise. Be prepared for some culture shock and getting used to the slower pace of life but be prepared for more exercise and a better quality of life where you will live life, not watch it on television. (not that we don't have tv's and cable)," explained one person living in Ojochal, Costa Rica.
"Before retiring in Ojochal, expats should be aware that the cost of living is relatively high compared to other parts of the country. Additionally, the area is known for its tropical climate, so expats should be prepared for hot and humid weather year-round. Expats should also be aware that the local infrastructure is limited, so it is important to research the availability of medical care, transportation, and other services before making the move. Finally, expats should be aware that the local language is Spanish, so it is important to learn some basic Spanish before arriving," said one expat in Ojochal.
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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.
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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.
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What do people appreciate most about the culture in Ojochal?
"Expats in Ojochal appreciate the laid-back lifestyle and the friendly locals. They also enjoy the abundance of outdoor activities, such as hiking, fishing, and surfing, that the area has to offer. The local cuisine is also a highlight, with its fresh seafood and tropical fruits. The area is also known for its stunning natural beauty, with lush rainforests, stunning beaches, and majestic mountains. Finally, the cost of living is very affordable, making it a great place to live for those on a budget," explained one person living in Ojochal, Costa Rica.
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 people find most challenging about the culture in Ojochal?
"Expats in Ojochal often find the language barrier to be the most challenging aspect of the local culture. Many locals speak Spanish as their primary language, and while some may be able to communicate in English, it is not as widely spoken as it is in other parts of the country. Additionally, the slower pace of life in Ojochal can be difficult for expats to adjust to, as it is much different than the hustle and bustle of their home countries. Finally, the local customs and traditions can be difficult to understand and navigate for those who are not familiar with them," said one person in Ojochal.
What residency documents or visas did I need if I will be in Ojochal for a while?
"If you plan to stay in Ojochal for an extended period of time, you will need to obtain a Temporary Residency Visa. This visa is valid for up to two years and can be renewed. You will need to provide proof of financial stability, a valid passport, and a police record. Additionally, you may need to provide a medical certificate and proof of health insurance," said one expat who made the move to Ojochal.
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What cultural blunders should I try to avoid making in Ojochal?
We asked people in Ojochal if they could share any humorous cultural blunders they commited. They wrote:
"It is important to be respectful of local customs and traditions when visiting Ojochal. It is important to dress modestly and to avoid public displays of affection. It is also important to be aware of the local language and to avoid speaking loudly or using offensive language. Additionally, it is important to be respectful of the local environment and to avoid littering or damaging the natural environment. Finally, it is important to be aware of local customs and to avoid offending anyone by making jokes or comments about their culture," remarked one member in Ojochal.
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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.
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What are healthcare services like in Ojochal?
When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Ojochal, they replied:
"Ojochal offers a variety of healthcare services to its residents and visitors. The local clinic, Clinica Ojochal, provides basic medical care and emergency services. The clinic is staffed by a team of experienced doctors and nurses who are available to provide medical advice and treatment. Additionally, the clinic offers a range of preventive health services, such as vaccinations and health screenings. For more specialized care, there are several private hospitals and clinics in the area that offer a variety of services, including cardiology, orthopedics, and obstetrics. Additionally, there are several pharmacies in the area that provide prescription medications and over-the-counter remedies," explained one expat living in Ojochal, Costa Rica.
Connect
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.
Connect
Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.
What are the pros and cons of living in Ojochal?
"Expats and digital nomads living in Ojochal 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 hiking, surfing, and swimming. They also enjoy the low cost of living and the availability of fresh, local produce. On the downside, some expats and digital nomads find the lack of infrastructure and public transportation to be a challenge. Additionally, the language barrier can be a challenge for those who don't speak Spanish," explained one person living in Ojochal, Costa Rica.
Connect
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.
Connect
Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.
About the Author
Joshua Wood, LPC is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange and serves as Co-President of Expat Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange and Digital Nomad 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.
Costa Rica Legal Residency is a bi-lingual boutique firm with 15 + years of successful experience on Residency, Renewals, Digital Nomad, and Citizenship.
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Costa Rica Legal Residency is a bi-lingual boutique firm with 15 + years of successful experience on Residency, Renewals, Digital Nomad, and Citizenship.
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