Those of you who are in the "boomer generation", ie; born between 1946 and 1964 are now perhaps thinking about getting off the fast moving treadmill and thinking about retirement, but the question is, can you retire with enough to live in comfort and still do the things you always wanted to do?

When thinking of retirement do you think of Florida and the sun belt, or perhaps Arizona, if so, it would be wise to consider the extreme costs of both of those areas where most of the U.S. population has already retired. Homes and living costs are very expensive and many who retire on modest incomes find it difficult to do some of the things they have always wanted to do, and some find it even necessary to obtain part time work.

If you are retiring on a modest income, another alternative is to look outside the box and consider foreign retirement where your income will go much farther and you will be able to do many of the things you could not do when retiring in the U.S.

Of the countries where studies have been made by those approaching their retirement years, Central America and particularly Costa Rica has become a choice of many. Currently there are over 50,000 foreign nationals who have retired in Costa Rica. There are many reasons for this. First it is only a few hours flying distance to the U.S. mainland. Secondly it is one of the safest countries in the world today, and is has different climates year round to choose from.

You may safely purchase property in Costa Rica without becoming a resident, and you are allowed to stay in the country for 90 days on each visit. However, many choose to become residents and remain in the country indefinitely. Costs in Costa Rica are small compared to the U.S. Existing homes can be obtained for less than $20,000, or built for less than $34 per square foot.

Utility, food, and labor costs are extremely low with electric for a three bedroom home generally averaging less than $25 per month, a main/cook for less than $150 per month, most full meals at less than $10 for a couple, and you can eat or drink safely anywhere in the country.

Is it no wonder that so many have chosen Costa Rica often called the Jewel of Central America. You have to visit only once to fall in love with Costa Rica.