www.CostaRicaTicas.com

My first visit to a chicas house was certainly eye opening. I have seen this gal several times over the past couple years. We seem to click and enjoy each others company. I was surprised when she invited me to visit her house. I certainly was curious so I took her up on the invitation. I’m couldn’t believe the taxi found the place. No numbers in the directions I had. The driver did have to call her once and than headed right to the house. Overall it was very clean and orderly but sparsely decorated. I normally bring little gifts for her and her K*ds. It was interesting to note that the gifts were displayed or in use in the house. I can’t believe she would have remembered what I had given her and placed them out special. Either way it was refreshing to see they were treasured and not sold, traded or given a way.

I have read and heard other report about the places being real “hell holes.” While the place was not up to American standards it was far from being a hole. I have seen worse in several of our major cities. I could actually stay there and be comfortable but I do prefer the luxury suites in my favorite hotel. It certainly seems to have changed our relationship. This last trip was certainly not business as usual but a definite GFE for the week.

I’ll be back in CR in a few weeks. It’ll be interesting to see how the next trip goes. I have plan “B” prepared just in case. But, why not enjoy the ride while it lasts?

my very limited experience in visiting the local Tica's homes is that they are indeed of modest decor.....but all the ones I've had the priviledge of visiting were clean and with lots of warmth.

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The one thing that becomes apparent very quickly is how relatively happy these people are in their modest (or poor) environment while we piss and moan about everything here in the US.

This IMHO is one of the things that seaparate CR to other C.A. countries.........

Most homes like Calidude said are very clean and have lots of warmth, even if it's an apartment, house or humble place........

And like Orange said they're happy, they enjoy life, that's being humble........

They work to live........ Most Americans live to work.

Yep - I agree with all of the above. However, tread with caution. In many cases, her meter is still running. Its just not visible.

When they establish some sort of connection with a gringo, they love to invite you over. This gives them the chance to show you how they live. Its usually a very meager, but clean house.

But, they are intentionally pulling on your heart strings. You'll trade emails. The RFMs will shortly follow. Do yourself a favor and don't honor her RFMs. Have fun, but pay her for her time. Don't send money.

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Unfortunately, I have to agree with Chi. I'm not so quick to judge anyones situation. It is all different. However, I am getting pretty keen at detecting the pattern. I'm sure she knew in advance you were coming over. No way in hell the gifts were going to be stashed away in the closet. This is just an intricate part of the "luring" process.

I'll preface the next statement by saying YMMV. But, once she has a sense that you are getting emotionally attached that is where the trouble will begin. And believe me, all females (I think Latinas more so than gringas) have military grade detectors for this kind of thing. It won't be long after that the RFM's will come. Do I categorically think RFM's are bad?? NO! I do not. I'm one of the few on this site who don't think they are categorically bad. But, this is the point where you really have to put YOUR military grade BS detectors on. And always remember, if her lips are moving, she is probably lying. But, for now, enjoy yourself. You only live once, man.

dapanz1