ExpatPZ

Serving expatriates in Perez Zeledon Costa Rica

 
Foreigners Beware: It's a Jungle Out There.
Wednesday, 04 January 2012 21:26

Those that have chosen to make Costa Rica their home have all been categorized by many names since arriving; Ex-patriots, Foreigners,  Americans, US citizens, Gringos and Perpetual Tourists.  A few more may be added to the list, as recently, several foreigners have been caught and arrested for growing or selling illegal substances on Costa Rican soil.   Sure, it is agreed that all humans belong on this earth and should have free rein, but as it stands now, with the current status quo, there are certain customs, rules and laws that need to be respected, even if they seem ridiculous. 

Most Americans have a common flaw that gets them into trouble due to a multi media upbringing of being led to believe that there is an extra special place in the world for Americans.  And sometimes even demand extra respect with money and might.  That attitude may work within the borders of the USA, but outside it's best checked at the door when entering a new country.  Unless of course you are the US military.  

Let this serve as a wake up call to all that a little humility and respect will go a long way to living the peaceful, free existence so desired and that maybe, little by little, with time, some mutual respect may be returned.  Hopefully, someday, all humans will agree on one law; rule by conscience.  Until that time it's best to play by the rules, to be free to enjoy what is good.
 

Comments  

 
0 #6 RE: Foreigners Beware: It's a Jungle Out There. — Indigo Dream 2012-01-17 02:42
Quoting frank:
As long as you play by the rules, nothing will change.

So you are saying that we should not follow the current rules and thereby be perceived as anti societal or even a threat which gives them the excuse to fight or lock us up? No thanks. I prefer to follow the rules to make them happy so they will leave me alone so I can quietly change my world. One day all will be awake, but until that time we have work to do.
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0 #5 Well Said — Nikki 2012-01-07 20:04
:-) Second paragraph is dead on. Last sentence I hope in same paragraph: implied sarcasm I assume. Well said.
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0 #4 none — Elizabeth Kushigian 2012-01-07 19:13
Thanks SO much for this commentary. I agree 100%.
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0 #3 Do as the Romans Do — Charles Clever 2012-01-05 17:34
The whole world is a jungle and a rule of thumb is, "When in Rome, do as the Roman's do."
Like it or not, we are occupying the domain of others and need recognize locals perceive us as wealthy. About the only place you are charged correctly is with computerized pricing.
Notwithstanding this, most Ticos are congenial and return the respect we show them, and whether here to enjoy the climate, economic advantages, or political tranquility in a hostile world, Costa Rica is a wonderful place for those who treat others with the respect they wish to receive. Failing to do this will, unfortunately, diminish respect for Gringos as a whole.

Charles
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0 #2 Mr — Rafael Dovale 2012-01-05 16:15
This article has no focus. It starts out addressing foreigners, then goes into a rant about Americans expecting special treatment in foreign countries just because they are Americans. This is a phenomenon that happens not only to Americans, but to many people who come from a richer nation to a poor one and assume they themselves hold the power and prestige of their nation. I've seen the Japanese behave like this in Thailand, the British in Spain, and the Spanish in Moroco. It is the simple result of human vanity. I suspect the author of this article is a that low form of life called an "Anti-American". They are everywhere and they are usually short-sighted deeply biased, and unaware.
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0 #1 RE: Foreigners Beware: It's a Jungle Out There. — frank 2012-01-05 14:56
As long as you play by the rules, nothing will change.
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