Tag: Costa Rica

Ecuador ranked top nation for U.S., Canadian retirees

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American tourists are seen at a tree house, which is used to observe Tungurahua volcano activity from 1.2 km (0.75 miles) of the volcano's crater in Banos CityNEW YORK (Reuters) – With its low cost of living, balmy climate and cheap property prices, Ecuador has been ranked the top foreign retirement destination for North Americans for the fifth consecutive year. The South American nation bordered by Colombia and Peru scored the highest marks in InternationalLiving.com's annual ranking of the best places to retire. With monthly estimated living expenses ranging from $900 to $1,400, Ecuador surpassed Panama, Malaysia, Mexico and Costa Rica, which rounded out the top five countries. …

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Sun, sand and root canal: Medical tourism booms in Costa Rica

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Two dentists work on a U.S. patient at a dental clinic in San JoseSAN JOSE (Reuters) – When Canadian house cleaner Marlene Trithardt needed a tooth replaced, she drove past her local dentist's office in Alberta and flew to the beach paradise of Costa Rica – to save money. Trithardt is one of a growing number of North Americans who turn south for medical care lured by lower prices, contributing close to 0.8 percent of Costa Rica's gross domestic product. "I chose to come here because I find in Alberta the prices are about 80 percent higher than in Costa Rica," says Trithardt, 57, who makes $30,000 a year. Her treatment will cost $4,000. …

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