PURA VIDA FEATURE
Helping Ticos Understand the Gringo Mindset Solutions to 9 Cons of Being an Expat Destination by Terry Carlile
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n our January issue, Howler published the article Solutions to 28 Cons of Living in Costa Rica, a lighthearted look at certain situations and behaviors that expats sometimes find bewildering or even frustrating about their adopted country. The intent was not to complain or criticize, but rather promote understanding and acceptance among gringos, along with suggestions for embracing the chill lifestyle that likely lured them to Costa Roca in the first place. Now, we take the opposite perspective, seeking to demystify certain expat ways for the benefit of our Tico friends. This is a broad-brush attempt to help locals understand the gringo mindset. We respond to some of their likely questions about our behaviors and suggest solutions. Of course, not every scenario described here is typical for every gringo.
PURA VIDA LIVING
1. Why are you angry when you pass me on the road? Well, it could be for a variety of reasons. Gringos are used to turn signals and brake lights … and no one stopping in the middle of the road to check cell phones or to pick up passengers. And usually, when pulling into traffic, they are accustomed to being able to merge with the flow of the traffic.
Solution Please bear with us as we strive to develop patience and tolerance, and to keep reminding ourselves we’re in your country. 2. I ride a motorcycle — why do you look at me so weird? Once again, turn signals and brake lights are the norm in North America. Plus, if you’re popping a wheelie, we worry about the dangers of overdoing it. If you’re weaving in and out of traffic, it’s hard for us to keep up with you using our front, rear, and side vision. If you’re totally moving too fast and we’re making a turn, the gringo’s car will always be the winner in that unexpected impact. Solution Help us appreciate motorcycle drivers who have their lights working, are not showing off and maintaining the regular speed.
If we didn’t love you, we wouldn’t be here.