Costa Rica was included among the 5 Easiest, Most Welcoming Retirement Havens in the World by International Living Magazine.

“A new report from International Living points to the top 5 retirement destinations across the globe where it’s easiest to fit in. The Fitting-in category of the 2019 Annual Global Retirement Index studies the character of the expat community, how easy it is for a single or LGBT person to adapt, how welcoming the locals are, if English is commonly spoken, and other factors”, reads the release.

“Costa Rica—in fourth place with 91 points—is one of the most popular retirement havens in Central America. Expats have been flocking here for more than 30 years.

As a long-time eco-tourism destination, Costa Rica is well-known for its wide variety of spectacular natural environments. There are volcanoes, rainforests, tropical beaches, waterfalls, looming mountains, rushing rivers, and more in this little country the size of West Virginia.

It is common to hear that Costa Ricans in general are warm and welcoming.

You will also find great communities of expats who will help you through the process of acclimating to new surroundings and language.

“I joined a girls’ dinner group and quickly bonded with women from all over the world. I found it very easy to make friends since many folks move not knowing anyone and are often looking to forge new friendships”, says IL Coastal Costa Rica Correspondent for International Living Magazine, Kathleen Evans.

Ticos (the moniker Costa Ricans give themselves) have established in their country one of the world’s most stable democracies. Costa Rica dissolved its standing army in 1949 and the reallocated funds are spent on education, healthcare, and pensions.

The other countries included in the list are: Ireland, Belize, Roatan and Malta (tied for third place) and Thailand.