Arrange Moving to San Jose, Costa Rica Now
Relocating to San Jose
Moving to San Jose from Canada is a bold transition to the great escape. It offers lush rainforests, vibrant culture, and a slower pace of life that prioritizes living in the moment. Nestled in the Central Valley and surrounded by mountains, San José is the bustling capital city of Costa Rica. It serves as a central hub for commerce, government, and travel, making it an ideal base for newcomers adjusting to life in Central America. Planning ahead makes a big difference. Bekins Worldwide, using its decades of international move experience and expertise, is here to help you, with both the best time of year to move and what to expect on the day you move into your new residence.
The best time to make the move is during Costa Rica’s dry season, known locally as verano (summer), which runs from mid-December to April. For Canadians, January or February move is especially ideal as it escapes long winters. Not only is the weather more predictable, but a seamless, sun-drenched arrival comes with roads that are in better condition and moving logistics are easier without the heavy rains that occur during the invierno (rainy season).
Moving in day is stressful. Here are a few things to help minimize that stress if you pay them a little attention.
• Costa Ricans, who call themselves Ticos (and Ticas for women), are warm and welcoming, but daily life here moves at a slower, more relaxed pace. The name comes from their unique linguistic habit of using the diminutive “-ico” at the end of words. For instance, “a little bit” (poquito) becomes “poquitico”. The famous Costa Rican “Pura Vida” philosophy, which translates to “pure life,” is more than just a saying. This relaxed attitude means that things don’t always run on a strict North American schedule.
• San José’s infrastructure is generally reliable, however it’s wise to confirm your new home’s electricity and internet are functional before arrival. Appointments, like a utility hook-up, might operate on what locals affectionately call “Tico time.” Moving in without air conditioning is a needless extra stress.
• While neighborhoods in San José are generally safe it is common for homes to have barred windows, fences, and alarm systems. Best it have security protecting your belongings as they are arriving.
• The city’s streets are chaotic with addresses relying on landmarks rather than street numbers. Waze is a location app locals prefer. It is all part of the reality that is San Jose and its slower pace of life.
Relocating to San José means trading snow boots for sandals and embracing a new rhythm of life. While there are challenges in adjusting to a new culture, the payoff is a rich experience in a country known for its biodiversity, natural beauty, and friendly locals.
To check the Weather in San Jose… Click Here
More Help With Moving to San Jose
• Cost of Living in San Jose
• City of San Jose
• Government of Costa Rica
• Vehicle Importation
• Costa Rica Consulate – Vancouver
• Costa Rica Embassy – Ottawa
To make a call to San Jose
• Dial 011 (outside North America)
• Dial 506 (code for Costa Rica)
• Dial the local phone number
or the cell phone number
In San Jose use 911 for emergencies.