Living abroad comes with a set of expectations no one hands you, but (most) everyone eventually discovers. So I put together a few of the unwritten terms and conditions I wish someone had given me early on… the ones to help you move mindfully, respectfully, and just a bit more prepared for the beautiful chaos of building a life in a new country.

1. You agree to be a beginner again. No matter how competent you were back home, you’ll still find yourself asking basic questions, double-checking Google Translate, and unsure what line you’re supposed to be in at the bank.
2. You understand that inconvenience is not oppression. Yes, things will take longer. Yes, systems work differently. And yes, there will be moments when you swear the universe is against you. It’s not. It’s just a different country and a different way of doing things.
3. You agree to stop comparing everything to where you came from. If you wanted everything to be the same, you would have stayed. The grocery store may not have your favorite snack, but it might have something better. Or not. Either way, the comparison game is a guaranteed misery generator.
4. You commit to learning the language. Not perfectly, but genuinely. Effort counts more than fluency, and people notice.
5. You accept that you will misunderstand things. Some will be funny. Some will be costly. Most will be humbling. But misunderstanding is part of the path – and little by little, you’ll figure it all out.
6. You acknowledge that your privilege moves with you. Even if you feel lost or vulnerable here, you still arrived with options many people don’t have. It’s not something to feel guilty about – just something to stay aware of so you can move through the world with decency.
7. You agree to build a life, not a fantasy. Real life abroad has laundry, bugs, bureaucracy, and not-so-ideal moments. But it also has amazing, beautiful, magical moments. Let both be true.
8. You commit to showing up for the land you now call home. Follow the laws. Support local businesses. Learn how things actually work. Be the foreigner who integrates thoughtfully.
9. You might not feel grounded right away. It takes relationships, routines, and a few “I survived that!” moments. But little by little, this country will start to feel like home.

If you’re planning a move to Costa Rica, here’s a friendly reminder: things are different here! Life is different here.

And if you need help planning for your move or settling in with a bit more ease, reach out. That’s what I’m here for.