American Expatriate Costa Rica

Happier Than A Billionaire: Quiting My Job, Moving to Costa Rica

Available in both Kindle and Paperback

Tired of their stateside jobs, contemplating a long gap between retirement and social security, Nadine and Rob take off for Costa Rica, hoping to live the dream life on the beach.

The full title of the book is actually Happier Than A Billionaire: Quiting My Job, Moving to Costa Rica, and Living the Zero Hour Work Week.

After becoming briefly acquainted with their situation in the United States, the book describes the perceptions of Nadine as they make their first trip to Costa Rica, and become acquainted with their potential life in Costa Rica. Initial problems include driving a rental car, dodging pot holes, tweaking the suicide shower, washing hair by candle light and dealing with dubious real estate agents.

Nadine is always comparing her lifestyle to other Americans, and as they make the transition to expat life, we become acquainted with an interesting cast of characters.

Jim, the Jehovah’s Witness, owns the second house. I know his name is Jim, but occasionally he changes his name to Rodger. I never know which one to say, so I just address the guy as “hey you” when I see him. Last time we met, he told me Armageddon was coming.

Pisani, Nadine Hays (2011-06-19). Happier Than A Billionaire: Quitting My Job, Moving to Costa Rica, and Living the Zero Hour Work Week (p. 80). . Kindle Edition.

We walk out to the street and soon notice all the other vehicles have two license plates. I am not surprised; the guy had all the intentions of screwing us one way or the other, but on the bright side, I do get great satisfaction knowing they are handling money that sat in Rob’s sweaty underpants.

Pisani, Nadine Hays (2011-06-19). Happier Than A Billionaire: Quitting My Job, Moving to Costa Rica, and Living the Zero Hour Work Week (p. 94). . Kindle Edition.

The last chapter, Happier Than A Billionaire takes stock of their decision to relocate and examines if they are truly happy. At $2.99 in Kindle format the book is a great value in terms of length and quality of information. It’s also thoroughly amusing, which adds appeal for people who have already relocated, and are just looking for something fun instead of detailed advice.