Where English Speaking People Live in Costa Rica

Being as this is a poll by a San Jose/Central Valley group and based on the above results, it can be argued that the results exclude many English speaking Costa Rica residents that reside outside of the Central Valley area. Additionally, the poll received only 155 responses which was reported to be a minuscule 9.5 % of this relatively small group's membership - a truly limited snapshot!

However, the poll showing that most respondents live in the Escazu & Santa Ana areas West of San Jose is not surprising being as these are the best known enclaves for English speaking transplants here in Costa Rica.

Escazú, San José, Costa Rica

This is most certainly not a personal endorsement of these areas being as I am of the opinion; why would you want to move to a new and different culture only to surround yourself with all things Americana (ie: Blockbuster Video, Office Depot, Hooters, TGI Fridays, Outback Steakhouse, BIG shopping malls, etc., etc.) . Not to mention the extremely higher prices for real estate, goods and services often charged to those Gringos that don’t seek out the real Costa Rica.

Multiplaza Mall - Escazú, Costa Rica

Hooters - located in an Escazú, Costa Rica strip mall near CIMA Hospital

At a minimum, the above information gives those considering a move to Costa Rica something to consider based on individual needs, wants and preferences.

I have a great view of Escazu everyday ... as I sit at my home office desk, on the other side of the valley.

View of Escazú area - from a preferred distance

I really enjoy my mountain view  and can almost smell Burger King from here ... and if for some reason I need an Applebee's burger, I can always drive on over to Gringolandia for a visit  ;o)