Don’t Wait to Live: Her Real-Life Expat Story of Love, Loss, and Moving to Costa Rica | Expats Living Abroad eXPAT-STORIES
When life takes an unexpected turn, it often forces us to pause and reflect on what truly matters. For Phyllis, the dream of relocating to Costa Rica with her husband was more than just a fantasy it was a shared vision, a goal they had nurtured together for years. What began as a joint adventure to seek a simpler, more fulfilling life abroad turned into a powerful personal journey marked by profound loss, resilience, and the pursuit of purpose.
This is a story not just about relocation. It's a story of courage, healing, and the unwavering belief that life is meant to be lived fully, now, not later.
“Thank you Lottie for listening to us, paying attention to our retirement dreams and guiding us to making our dreams a reality. Pura Vida”- Phyllis
From California to Costa Rica: A Dream Born of Purpose
Life in California had its perks, but for Phyllis and her late husband, the fast-paced lifestyle, rising costs, and environmental stressors had them yearning for something more. Their hearts were set on Costa Rica—a country known for its rich biodiversity, tranquil pace, wellness-oriented living, and welcoming community of expats.
In late summer of 2024, they reached out to Expats Living Abroad (ELA) for help. They wanted a seamless experience and trusted that a comprehensive relocation support system could help them avoid the common pitfalls many first-time expats face. ELA became more than just a relocation service, it became a guiding hand.
A Life-Changing Scouting Trip
Their first visit to Costa Rica early this year on a scouting trip was filled with hope, discovery, and excitement. It was during this trip that they started narrowing down potential places to live, and met with ELA’s trusted bilingual legal expert partners to discuss residency and property requirements.
Tragically, during their time abroad, Noel passed away suddenly due to unforeseen health complications. The loss was devastating.
Honoring a Shared Dream
While many might have paused or retreated entirely, Phyllis made a deeply courageous decision: to continue with their shared plan. She knew that this dream was built with love and intention. And though the path ahead would now be hers to walk alone, she was determined to walk it with strength.
"We came here together, and even though I have to finish this journey on my own, I know he would have wanted me to keep going," she shared.
With support from family, friends, and the ELA team, she resumed her relocation preparations. Her story reminds us that honoring the past doesn’t mean halting the future.
How Expats Living Abroad Helped
Having worked with ELA from the beginning, Phyllis was familiar with the team’s personal, hands-on approach. After her loss, the value of that relationship became even clearer.
"They didn’t just offer a service, they offered support. Emotional, logistical, and practical all in one."
ELA's comprehensive relocation services include everything from tailored accommodation searches and vetted property tours to community integration and professional networking. But one feature that proved vital was the legal support from ELA’s trusted bilingual law firm partners globally!
Navigating Costa Rican bureaucracy and legal procedures can be overwhelming even under normal circumstances. With expert legal guidance provided in her native language, Phyllis was able to manage everything from residency applications to rental agreements with clarity and confidence. This allowed her to focus on healing, while ELA focused on the logistics.
Finding Home and Healing
By mid 2025, she has found a tranquil, light-filled home nestled in a welcoming Costa Rican town surrounded by nature—a place where she could both grieve and grow. The local community, bolstered by a diverse expat network, made her feel not only welcome, but seen and supported.
"I wake up to birdsong and ocean breezes instead of city traffic. It’s quiet, but I’ve never felt more connected to life."
Through ELA, she was also introduced to a community of abundant expats that have become a great support system. These connections are now a part of her healing ecosystem.
A Message to Those Waiting
In sharing her story, Phyllis hopes to encourage others who are contemplating a big life change. She understands the hesitation. The "what ifs." But her experience offers a powerful reminder: life is unpredictable. Waiting for the "perfect time" may mean never taking the leap at all.
"If there’s something you feel called to do a place you want to live, a dream you want to chase do it now. Don’t wait. Life is fragile, and so incredibly precious."
Her journey to Costa Rica wasn't just about finding a new home. It was about reclaiming her life, honoring her husband, and becoming the author of her next chapter.
🎥 Watch the Full Interview on YouTube: Expats Living Abroad
Why Clients Trust Expats Living Abroad
ELA is proud to have supported Phyllis through every stage of her relocation. Our mission is not only to help you move logistically, but to ensure you feel grounded emotionally, socially, and practically.
We provide:
Personalized relocation consultation packages
Housing and community integration support
Access to our partnered vetted bilingual legal firms
Transition and cultural immersion
Expat networking and events
Ongoing post-arrival guidance
Whether you’re relocating for love, healing, retirement, entrepreneurship, or simply a new beginning, we are here to make your journey seamless, safe, and deeply meaningful.
Final Thoughts
Phyllis continues to build her life in Costa Rica, embracing each day with courage, gratitude, and purpose. Her journey is a testament to what’s possible when you choose to live fully despite life’s unexpected twists.
If her story moved you, let it be the sign you were waiting for. Let it be the nudge to act, to plan, and to believe that a better life abroad is within reach.
Let us help you make it happen.
Expats Living Abroad, Your Journey, Our Expertise.
Interested in Starting Your Own Relocation Journey? Schedule a personalized consultation today and begin your next chapter abroad with confidence. Our team can help guide you through the proper steps and make your transition smooth and secure.
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