My wife has lived in Tamarindo for just over twelve years now, and I'm just coming up on two years.... which I think brings to about a year away from officially being "local"?? In this short time, among the things that have been most enjoyable in Tamarindo (like the natural beauty and great surf) I've really enjoyed being part of the cultural mix that you find among the people of our community. What most people who visit here don't realize is that Tamarindo has very few Costa Ricans (or Ticos as they call themselves) who call Tamarindo home. The high price of real estate and the cost of living are too expensive for most natives. So while you may often think you are talking to a native tico or tica, in actuality you are often talking with someone from Spain, Italy, Argentina, or Columbia.
In sum.... Tamarindo is very much an international community of expats made up of people from the countries named above- and you can add to that list... the U.S., Canada, Switzerland, France, Germany, etc. So if you are open to cross borders and welcome people of other cultures into your lives.... Tamarindo makes for a great place to have stimulating cultural and intellectual encounters.
Now for the food...
Another bonus that comes along with our international community is the diversity of international flavors and blends of cuisine found in local restaurants.... Dragon Fly, Baulas, and El Coconut being among them. And then you've got classic surf and turf and amazing breakfasts at Noguis and Breakfast Grinds. Both are great places with fair prices and tasty food. Finally, your tasty Mexican and Tex-Mex at Taco Stop, Eat at Joe's (Witches Rock Surf Camp), and Mexi-Grinds. Also... be sure to get down to Playa Avellanas for a late lunch at Lola's. Everything on the menu is amazing.
Lastly... be sure to stop by and see us at Cafe Cafe. A great place for a coffee-to-go on your way out of town, linger over a good book, or catch up on e-mail over our free wireless internet.
Peace.....
