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Choosing the Best All-Inclusive Resort in Central America
When searching for an all-inclusive vacation resort, it is important to consider many variables to ensure an unforgettable experience.
Nicaragua is a beautiful, welcoming country for expats looking for a change of pace. The Emerald Coast, a 30-mile...
Nicaragua is a beautiful, welcoming country for expats looking for a change of pace. The Emerald Coast, a 30-mile stretch located on Nicaragua’s Pacific coastline, has a way of enchanting its visitors. Let’s explore everything you need to know about moving to this slice of heaven.
Graced with pristine beaches with some of the best year-round surfing in the world and a dry, tropical forest, the Emerald Coast is paradise found. Located between Central America’s largest lake — Lake Nicaragua — and the Pacific Ocean, it is one of the only places in the world with over 300 days of offshore winds, enticing surfers from all over the world. The Emerald Coast is more than just a surf mecca, however. With its lush rainforests, miles of scenic views, welcoming hospitality, and beautiful moments of nature at every glance, the Emerald Coast is an oasis for every type of traveler.
This breathtaking area is extremely popular with expats. Its affordability and vibrant expat community make it a growing destination for people from all around the world. Nicaragua has become one of Central America’s safest places to travel thanks to the country’s concerted efforts to increase peace and international tourism. Nicaragua has worked hard to transform its beautiful Emerald Coast into a welcoming destination for all.
Nicaragua is one of Central America’s most affordable countries to move to, especially when compared to US cities. A couple’s monthly expenses can range from $1,000–$2,500/month, with a single person’s monthly expenses often coming in at less than $1,000/month. Retiring in Florida, by comparison, costs an average of over $4,000/month, according to the Bureau of Economic Analysis.
Property costs are broken down as follows:
When moving to the Emerald Coast, your options for housing are plentiful. From renting or buying, you can live your new life in an apartment, a villa, a gated community, a house, or even opt to live at Rancho Santana in a cliffside home, beachfront villa, co-ownership residences, or ocean-view lots primed for designing your personal paradise.
If you’re looking to rent or buy your new home, it is essential to note that working with a local real estate lawyer. This will make the process a lot easier and allow you to find your perfect space, all while having a professional guide you through the nuances and complexities.
Though living in Nicaragua might be a change of pace when compared to the US, the Emerald Coast does offer excellent infrastructure, high-speed internet, and a host of your favorite comforts and amenities.
These include gyms and fitness clubs, yoga studios, golf courses, beach clubs, co-working spaces, big box stores (Walmart, Price Smart, Sinsa/Home Depot, MaxiPali, La Colonia Grocery Stores), boutiques and family-owned shops, chain restaurants such as the Hard Rock Cafe, a booming nightlife, and mouth-watering local eats.
The expat community on Nicaragua’s Emerald Coast is a vibrant and welcoming one. Nicaraguans are a very kind and hospitable people. This makes the transition to living in a new country much easier for expats. The expat community has many social clubs, events, and online forums, allowing newcomers to connect with the community and find the support they need.
It is recommended that people learn Spanish when moving to Nicaragua, as this will allow for better cultural integration within the community. Even if you’re a beginner, the effort is appreciated and will only make your experience all the better! Consider taking online courses, practicing with Spanish-speaking friends, or even trying an app like Duolingo.
Nicaragua has a rich and beautiful culture, influenced by an indigenous, Spanish, and Afro-Caribbean blend of customs and traditions. From its colonial architecture, brightly painted homes and buildings, lively music, art, and delicious foods, immersing yourself in the culture will become second nature.
Nicaraguans are very friendly and caring. They are accustomed to tourists and foreigners and will help a stranger in need wherever they can. If you want to blend in and adapt to the local way of life, maintaining a tidy and hygienic appearance is a great way to make a good first impression! Show an interest in the local traditions, patronize local establishments and markets, and treat the community with the respect and kindness you receive.
If you’re looking to work in Nicaragua, there are plenty of options! Many expats are digital nomads, working remotely from their new home on the Emerald Coast. But for those who aren’t looking for a remote job, the most common sectors include tourism, education, NGOs, or international organizations. Tourism includes hotel management, tour operations, and the like. If you’re a native English speaker, you can earn a living as an English teacher in a private school or language institute. NGOs and International organization jobs do require relevant experience.
Nicaragua offers free education, including medical school.
If you are looking for bilingual schools with internationally accredited curriculum programs that allow credit-transferring to North American schools, Nicaragua offers three great options in San Juan del Sur and Tola:
There are local schools and homeschooling options as well.
If there’s one thing you won’t find a shortage of on the Emerald Coast, it’s outdoor activities and adventures. Nicaragua is painted in breathtaking natural beauty. From its many pristine beaches to its gorgeous tropical rainforests, there is always a nature-filled adventure to be had! If you love to surf, you’re moving to the right place.
Enjoy nearly year-long surfing conditions that have people from around the world making the trip solely for the surf. Whether you’re a surf aficionado or a beginner, joining a surf club is a great way to meet new people and connect with the community.
If surfing isn’t your jam, there are still countless nature-centric activities to partake in. Hiking in the mountains or rainforest, enjoying the beach (from the shore or on a kayak!), exploring nature reserves, horseback riding, climbing a volcano, and more. There is so much to see in beautiful Nicaragua and many unforgettable day trips you can take — either solo or with family or new friends.
Nicaraguan cuisine and its booming nightlife will not disappoint. Enjoy delicious meals and cocktails at beachfront restaurants like Pilis Kitchen, El Timon, Magnific Rock, or one of Rancho Santana’s five restaurants. Head to Juntos Bar for drinks and live music if you’re looking for a fun beach bar vibe. Whether you’re looking for a romantic date night, a local watering hole, or the best Nicaraguan cuisine, you’ll be sure to find it on Nicaragua’s Emerald Coast.
Moving to Nicaragua is a great option for remote workers, retirees, families, and anyone looking for a more relaxing and nature-centric life. The cost of living is significantly more affordable than in the US and neighboring Central American countries and offers a life rooted in community and adventure.
Opting for a more luxurious option brings you to Rancho Santana and its 2,700 acres of property, five pristine beaches, four farm-to-table restaurants, 21 miles of trails, and 6,000 square feet of wellness space. You can buy a turnkey home or build your dream property from scratch, designing your own personal paradise. Check out our Real Estate page to learn how you can create the life of your dreams in beautiful Nicaragua.
When searching for an all-inclusive vacation resort, it is important to consider many variables to ensure an unforgettable experience.
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