From Chicago Hustle to Tranquility in Nosara, Costa Rica

Nestled in the lush jungles of Costa Rica's Nicoya Peninsula, the relaxing surf town of Nosara offers a serene lifestyle that's worlds away from the fast-paced urban grind of Chicago.

For Stacie Brown, this vibrant community has been more than a new home—it's been a complete transformation.

In 2017, Stacie left her corporate career and city life in Chicago to embrace Nosara's pura vida spirit. Today, at 44, she's an entrepreneur, life coach, and event planner thriving in a setting that blends natural beauty with a slower, more intentional way of living.

Known for its yoga retreats, year-round surf, and wellness-centered ethos, Nosara has long attracted health-conscious travelers. But for Stacie, it was more than a vacation destination. A life coaching retreat in Nosara opened her eyes to the possibility of living differently.

"In the past, I was more rigid and such a perfectionist," she recalls. "Moving here allowed me to peel back those layers and find myself. In Nosara, you hear what you're thinking and feel what you're feeling. It's a chance to reconnect with yourself."

The decision to relocate was swift. Within nine weeks of attending that retreat, she sold her condo and began her new life in Costa Rica.

Adjusting to Tropical Life

Stacie Brown fell in love with the lifestyle in Nosara, Costa Rica.

From the tropical weather to new shopping habits, Stacie's has learned that adapting to a new life always requires adjustments.

"In the US, I experienced all the seasons, which I always enjoyed—there's something to be said for the colorful fall and that first snowfall. Here, it's hot and humid year-round, but I've adapted," she shares.

Living in Nosara allows her to appreciate tropical weather while traveling to experience seasonal changes elsewhere.

Stacie has also adapted her shopping habits to prioritize local, cost-effective options.

"In the US, I made six figures and never thought twice about a grocery trip. Here, you become more aware of costs and humbled by the simplicity of living locally."

To keep costs down, she buys from a local farmer. For example, she buys a giant bag of greens for under $10, much less than the stores. Her shopping routine now involves multiple stops, from fishermen to egg deliveries and farm visits.

While Nosara's popularity has driven up real estate prices—a $40,000 property seven years ago now sells for $400,000—Stacie has managed to find ways to live affordably. Renting a one-bedroom home in the Delicias neighborhood for $850 a month, she's well below the typical $1,500–$2,000 rental costs closer to the beach.

Past medical issues have prompted Stacie to navigate healthcare thoughtfully. She participates in Costa Rica's public healthcare system, known as the Caja, while also paying $400 annually for private coverage to ensure peace of mind.

The balance between public and private systems gives her flexibility, and she's found care to be affordable and high-quality.

The Magic of Nosara

Surf culture is a big part of life in the area, as shown by places like the Guiones Surf Club.

Nosara's official town center is just under four miles inland, nestled in the province of Guanacaste. It's about a 2 hour and 45-minute drive from the international airport in Liberia when driving through Ostional (where a new bridge is set to open soon, making the drive manageable year-round). You can also fly Sansa directly from Liberia or San Jose to Nosara.

When you want to hit the beach, you head to Playa Guiones or Playa Pelada, known for their year-round consistent surf conditions for experienced surfers. Nosara itself is spread out, meaning that beaches, restaurants, and stores are not usually within walking distance. Yet there are lots of boutique hotels, rental houses, tourist shops, and places to eat in Guiones—which is a short walk to the ocean.

Nowadays, many people are buying land to build and rent as an investment instead of moving full-time to the area. Also, many more digital nomads have headed to the area. Stacie adds, "Coworking spaces are more prevalent, from posh spots like Outpost to more budget-forward spots like Selina."

But for Stacie, the magic of Nosara lies in its natural beauty and strong sense of community. Whether it's collaborating with Costa Rican-owned businesses through her event planning work or exploring the area's beaches and jungles, she's found fulfillment in the connections she's built.

Her event planning business prioritizes Costa Rican-owned companies, dedicating 85% of her budget to them.

"Collaboration is key for a cohesive living experience," she says. "The vibrant community of expats here is enriched by the amazing local residents who embody the heart and soul of Nosara."

Stacie describes the area as a harmonious blend of nature's finest elements, surrounded by lush jungles, verdant mountains, and the cleansing ocean.

"I sense many people feel this in Costa Rica, however, there is this special magic in Nosara that can't be put into words. It's so easy to ground myself here; I love the balance I feel when I step outside," she shares.

Nosara's allure lies in its natural beauty, thriving community, and opportunities for personal growth. For Stacie and many others, it's more than a destination—it's a place to live in balance, with purpose, and full of pura vida spirit.