In these difficult times, Costa Rica continues to be a beacon of hope for every family. It provides them a better quality of life and deep-rooted connection to place. This Central American nation is the first tropical country to have successfully reversed deforestation, a testament to its commitment to environmental sustainability. We quickly learned that one of the most amazing areas was the Nicoya Peninsula. This region is known as a blue zone of the world, a place where people live healthy long lives averaging 85 years old with a richness of centenarians.
The Ward-Hopper family relocated from the United States to Pueblo Nuevo in 2018. They have enjoyed the fruits of their labor, experiencing firsthand how transformative this vibrant community can be. They set off in search of a new domicile. Their vision was to win improved public health services, expanded education, and the creation of a robust system of care. After narrowing down four possible locations—Ghana, Sweden, Mexico, and Costa Rica—they eventually landed on Costa Rica.
Beyond its impressive health statistics, Costa Rica escapes many of the pitfalls of developing countries with an excellent education system and unparalleled environmental protections. These three social determinants of health were crucial to the Ward-Hopper family’s ability to make informed decisions. They were particularly drawn to the idea of raising their son, Nicolai, in an environment that prioritizes well-being and longevity.
The family has been living in Costa Rica for several years and continues to be amazed by its natural beauty. Ward-Hopper stated, “So that was the first indicator that there was something special about Costa Rica.” He focused on the impact that the country’s creative milieu had in creating an overall atmosphere of energy that infused new life into everyday experiences.
Though the Ward-Hopper family’s time in Costa Rica was a dream come true, they did encounter unexpected challenges, such as the worldwide Covid-19 pandemic. Costa Rica permitted them to remain in the country on tourist visas throughout this period. This could be an especially important decision, as it offered them reassurance while they weathered the unknowns. The 2020 birth of Nicolai in Costa Rica deepened their ties to this place.
The Nicoya Peninsula is beautiful, yes, but it’s a way of life that fosters health and connection. Equally important, the community culture values intergenerational relationships and the elderly take a direct interest in helping to raise children and young adults. Ward-Hopper commented on this dynamic, saying, “The elderly are a part of caring for the youngest generation – their grandchildren, or their great grandchildren, because they’re in such good shape.”
While relocating to Costa Rica has its costs, Ward-Hopper noted that “Costa Rica is the most expensive country in Latin America.” The family believes the benefits far outweigh the financial considerations. The healthcare system has provided them with reassurance and support. Ward-Hopper himself remarked, “I just felt the best that I had been feeling since I’d been diagnosed,” referring to his health journey prior to moving.
Ward-Hopper, too, took time to reflect on how his journey honed his own understanding of community. “I had an idea of what I thought community was, but that was completely obliterated when I got here and experienced true community.” This increased sense of belonging has been fundamental in their successful transition to life in Costa Rica.
Aside from all of the practical advantages, their decision to relocate to Costa Rica has given them a different outlook on life. Ward-Hopper liked the slower pace of life in Costa Rica. It was a world apart from the sense of urgency he usually felt back in the United States. You’ve heard the expression, ‘If you’re on time, you’re late.’ Here, that’s actually not true,” he said.
Their family’s change has deepened not just their individual growth, but their whole family’s understanding of the foundational elements of true wellness and happiness. Ward-Hopper said Nicolai’s birth was “almost like a meditation.” It’s in this backdrop that life has deepened their gratitude for where they live and how they experience it.
