• info@openzone.eu
  • La Fortuna, Alajuela, Costa Rica
Logo OpenZone Comunity
  • info@openzone.eu
Logo OpenZone Comunity
Logo OpenZone Comunity

About us – OpenZone

20 years of experience in Costa Rica, real support for a new life

Behind OpenZone are two people: a native Costa Rican with deep roots in the history of the place and an expat who has been here for over two decades. Together, we combine native knowledge of the system with direct experience of the process that you are going through right now. Together, we combine local perspective with direct experience of the relocation process to provide real, practical, and well-documented information about life in this country.

We have been living, working and fully adapting to life in Costa Rica for over 20 years. OpenZone is not just a website or a company — it is a project built from real experiences, challenges and lessons learned “on our own skin”.

We started with technology, security, automation and IT services, but we realized that what really matters to many people who come here is not just the equipment, but accurate, honest and well-documented information about what it is really like to live in this wonderful country, but with its ups and downs.

Who we are

Marco Fauricio Jiménez Huertas

Born and raised in Costa Rica, he has in-depth knowledge of the culture, legislation, administration, and how daily life works.
His experience provides the local perspective that complements every piece of information published on OpenZone.

Aurelia Iuliana Ganea

Settled in Costa Rica for over 20 years, she has personally gone through all the stages of adaptation: immigration, integration, administration, the medical system, business and daily life. The published articles are built on direct experience, research and careful verification of information.

cine suntem

On openzone.eu you can find clear and practical guides on all of this — from good neighborhoods for expats, to real supermarket prices, how the healthcare system works, local schools, veterinary services for pets, to what you need to do at immigration and the Hacienda to avoid wasting time and money unnecessarily.

We don’t sell you illusions, but honest, up-to-date and useful information — based on our own experience and the stories of those who have gone through it before you.

Life in Costa Rica – not just a Palm Tree Vacation

If you’re thinking about moving to Costa Rica, you already have a beautiful dream: beaches, sun, peace, and a laid-back life. But the reality is a little different — and we’re here to tell you what you need to know to make an informed decision.

Life here isn’t perfect. There are daily challenges: bureaucracy, cultural differences, adapting to a different healthcare system, navigating slow-moving authorities, finding a place where you truly feel at home.

20 years of Adaptation and deep understanding

About us – OpenZone

We moved here two decades ago and have learned everything about life and business in Costa Rica on the go. We’ve seen how things change, how the market evolves, how communities develop, and how expats can build a beautiful yet realistic life.

I went through everything:

Svg Vector Icons : http://www.onlinewebfonts.com/icon
Finding and buying the right land for building a house
Svg Vector Icons : http://www.onlinewebfonts.com/icon
Understanding the bureaucratic system
Svg Vector Icons : http://www.onlinewebfonts.com/icon
Adapting to the local lifestyle
Svg Vector Icons : http://www.onlinewebfonts.com/icon
How it works to open and manage a business
Svg Vector Icons : http://www.onlinewebfonts.com/icon
Building a network of real contacts
Svg Vector Icons : http://www.onlinewebfonts.com/icon
and most importantly, I understood what you need to know so you don't fall into traps or get caught by surprise.

This experience is the foundation of OpenZone — a place where you can find accurate information, with details that few have access to.

What we offer now

Practical and detailed guides

From start to finish, we provide you with information about:

  • Neighborhoods and localities — where to fit in, what lifestyle and what prices to expect
  • Daily living costs — food, transportation, utilities, healthcare
  • Medical services — public and private, what to expect, how to prepare
  • Local bureaucracy — how to deal with immigration, Hacienda, required documents
  • Schools, kindergartens and childcare services — what options do you have
  • Veterinary services and pet facilities
  • Job opportunities and local businesses
  • Tips related to relocation and cultural integration

Local business and service directory

Where you can find quality, recommended and verified services, useful for expats and locals: from plumbers, lawyers, veterinarians, shops, to relocation-specific services.

Real advice and support

We are not a classic agency that just sells you packages and promises. We are here to honestly answer your questions, give you advice, and help you avoid common problems.

Why choose OpenZone?
Because:
  • We’ve been here for 20 years and we know what we’re talking about
  • We don’t sell illusions, but reality adapted to your needs
  • We offer you updated, concrete and verified information
  • Our guides are written and verified manually, not automatically generated
  • We focus on practical experience, not just theory
  • We offer you real support and help in the relocation process
Conclusion

Moving to Costa Rica is a beautiful adventure, but with many unknowns. OpenZone is here to make your journey easier, prepare you for what’s really coming, and provide you with a solid community and resources.

If you want to make an informed, down-to-earth decision without being fooled by “perfect vacations,” you’ve come to the right place.

Let's make your move to Costa Rica a real, clear, committed and well-prepared experience together!