It's like America was - people helping people. And those with no jobs or very little growing their own food which is hard work. Each generation always improving their status.
it is consider shameful to beg or look for handouts
I remember America being like that - or actually the people I was surrounded with were like that. And, anonymously, you would leave something by the door you knew they needed. Because hard times can fall on anyone and you never took for granted, but thankful, for what you had because your turn may be next.
At least, that is how I was raised. Outside our family/friends bubble it may have been different because it changed very quickly. I, also, think the credit card business had alot to do with it. 'Why wait - you can have it all now' mindset was born. Then we started picking up the tab for these types.
One last thing - you didn't mention any cons, they has to be cons.
And 500.00 a month ? A retiree's paradise. Are homes like we have here in the states? Big kitchens, bathrooms? A/C? And what the average home (the kind spoiled Americans are used to) cost?
I think you are right about credit cards bringing America to ruin. That along with contraceptive pills, poor quality television, obsession with sports, desire for expensive homes and automobiles, often poor quality sermons from the pulpit, de-emphasis of spiritual hymns, it’s an endless list.
The realtor I used....is Aurora Beach Realty, Justin my realtor is from Boston and was fabulous.
http://www.aurorabeachfront.com/nicaraguarealestate/property/Villa%20de%20Palermo.php?&id=17
You could buy this house by offering less than the asking of 109,000 my bet you could get it or 99,000 USD
My house was listed at 159,000 after a year they dropped it to 139,000, I offer 120,000 and ended up at 129,000
I have a free standing house 1800 sf 2 bd 2 ba with. Guest cottage 500 sf, fenced yard, landscaping, 24 hr security, power backup, solar hit water heater, potable water
Property taxes last year were 353.00 USD.
I am apply or retiree status should ave my 5 year green card any week now.
You only have to be 45 to get the retiree tax benefit package.
Import up to 20,000 tax free nd a car up to 25,000 tax free plus legible or a great health care insurance of 350.00 a year for a married couple with 30% deductible.
Large hospitals here are USA accredited by the government and I’ll accept several us insurance such as blue costs blue shield
I love it here, laid back and stress free.
More info here about Granada....which isn’t on the ocean but many older expats prefer to retire there...
San Juan del Sur is a smaller town and surf crowd...
http://www.gadling.com/2013/04/10/international-budget-guide-2013-granada-and-san-juan-del-sur-nic/