Important governmental arms of Costa Rican promotion like the ICT (Ministry of Tourism) and the Ministerio de Comercio Exterior have joined to make attempts at attracting more retirees, or pensionados, to Costa Rica in the national interest.  All that remains necessary is for President Arias to sign on to the idea and it becomes part of the governmental plan of promotion.  In which case, important things could happen that could really have an impact, like giving tax breaks on the importation of autos and household furnishings and possible even income taxes.   As to the specifics of the plan, that is still to be studied, but Costa Rica has recognized that “baby boomers” in places like, Texas, Florida and Arizona may take a more than serious look at Costa Rica as a potential permanent, or temporary, retirement home.  Government prognosticators have estimated that in the next few years the number of retirees could grow to 10,000, generating some $340 million in income annually and creating the need for 40,000 new jobs.  The idea is to have retiree-focused communities in places like San Pedro de Poas, where a new development dedicated to retirees is already in operation (see www.retirementhomecr.com).  These places would focus on the specific needs of those who are getting up in the years (this is a little offensive, since I am technically a “baby boomer, but nowhere near ready for a “retirement home”).  Private hospitals like Clinica Biblica and Catolica want in on the act and propose that there be a certification for those specialized to care for the needs of retirement age persons (clarified….above 65 years of age).   This all sounds like an idea whose time has come.  I have always believed Costa Rica could be a retirement haven and with the rapidly improving infrastructure it begins to look all the more appealing.  I just hope everyone in their rush to cash in on the growing trend resolve to keep efforts 100% sustainable, remembering always that it is Costa Rica’s great natural bounty that draws so many of all ages, shapes and sizes to its borders each year. 

Link to Article in La Nación