GET TO KNOW YOUR NEIGHBORS IN NOSARA
Social butterflies notwithstanding, getting to know your neighbors in Nosara can be unnerving, particularly if you’re new to town. However, it doesn’t need to be a panic-attack inducing ordeal. It can be as simple as a wave, and (providing all the neighbors attend) as much fun as a banging late-night housewarming party. Other ways to meet your local townsfolk include:
Wave and Smile
You may have noticed that in Guanacaste, when you wave or smile at a local they almost always reciprocate. It’s one of the most endearing traits of Costa Ricans and one that the more aloof ex-pats would be right to embrace. Granted, it’s universally agreed upon that a neighborly wave and smile is a good opening gesture. However, in a town where everyone pretty much knows everyone, it’s simple par for the course. Next time, strike up a conversation about local issues – kooks in the water, construction noise, army ants, or whatever common ground unites you. Soon enough, those you’re waving and smiling at won’t be strangers anymore.
Ask for Advice
If you’re new to town, it’s guaranteed that you’ll need help navigating the finer details of Nosara living. Need to hire a gardener? Pop next door to ask your neighbor who they use. Don’t know where to get a good craft beer or margarita? Well, your neighbor probably will. And if they don’t, it’s a good opportunity to go find one together, which may be the easiest, funnest way to get to know your neighbors in Nosara.
Ask for Help
Heading for a surf but can’t find your wax? If your neighbors are around, ask if you can borrow theirs. Then, return the gesture in the form of a new block of wax.
Offer Help
Opportunities to be neighborly, particularly in a town like Nosara, appear daily. If you see someone walking along the 160 from Garza, offer them a ride. If you see someone who has run out of gas or blown a tire, offer them a lift to the bomba. Congratulations. You just made a friend for life.
Join Groups in Nosara
No, we do not mean another WhatsApp or Facebook group. Nosara has book clubs, soccer clubs, tennis clubs, martial arts clubs, music groups, yoga groups, volleyball groups, environmental groups, art groups, surf groups, goddess circles, and more. Finding like-minded people to pursue hobbies is a great way to meet people. If you’re searching for something particular, reach out on social media, or just create your own group and see who signs up.
Volunteer in Nosara
There is a range of different volunteering programs in Nosara. As well as being of service, each of these offers a great way to meet new people, particularly if you are a newcomer to the area. In addition to strengthening your community ties, volunteering brings you into contact with people with common interests, local resources, and fun, meaningful ways to spend your time. Amigos de Costa Rica can get you started. .
Attend Community Events in Nosara
In Nosara, “community events’ can range from homeowners meetings, or local civic assemblies, to watching live bands, housewarming fiestas, or even partying in some remote tucked away location. Whatever your flavor, attending these events is a great way to connect socially with those who live here.
Let Your Dog Make Friends for You
For many people, getting a little sheepish when meeting other members of their own species for the first time is normal. Dogs aren’t people. Unlike people, they can go from total strangers to total BFFs within seconds of meeting.The dog’s parents are usually happy to hang out, watch them play, and ask each other questions. Keep the conversation moving with questions about local dog etiquette, veterinarians, and local dog walks. Just make sure you have a leash and a poop bag close at hand at all times.
Unlike our furry friends, getting to know your surrounding community isn’t something that happens immediately. Building relationships, particularly solid ones, takes time. However, if you put in the effort, you’ll reap the rewards in no time.
