And Living the Zero Hour Work Week - Moving to Costa Rica

Just finished this book on my kindle. I laughed so hard when I read the part about obtaining her drivers license! My husband asked me if I was ok! It's an easy read, and I thoroughly enjoyed it. We are here in Costa Rica for 6 months and Nadine gave me some more ideas on places I would like to see. Will be watching for the sequel! Thank you :)

SO ENJOYED THIS BOOK! IT WAS FUNNY, REFRESHING, AND UTTERLY DELIGHTFUL! I AM IN AWE OF THEIR ABILITY TO CARRY ON IN THE FACE OF DISCOURAGING SITUATIONS! IT MAKES ME WANT TO SHUCK IT ALL AND STEP INTO A NEW ADVENTURE! BRAVO!

This book was so entertaining, I couldn't put it down! Every story, every adventure was one that I could relate to. The trials and tribulations, and ultimate happiness are an inspiration for all hard-working people seeking a better life. A must-read for anyone with a sense of humor!!! Waiting for the next book by this talented new author, Nadine Hays-Pisani...

The first few pages were a wonderful indicator of what to expect from this book. I could not stop laughing. I decided to read it all the way through but I had to go to work. Of course I took it with me. I can't wait to read the next one! Highly recommended read especially if you need a great laugh. Keep on writing Nadine!

This is the funniest travel book I have ever read and also very informative if you like to read something out of your ordinary fiction book. It's written like your best friend was telling you all about her day in her new surroundings. I loved it and couldn't put it down. The sequel is also a great read. Can't wait un
til the next one comes out!!

My family and I read some of this book together and we love it and laugh so hard that our sides hurt!
Also got her 2nd book and looking forward to the 3rd.
If I ever get to Costa Rica, which I am hoping, I would love to meet Nadine.
We are from PA too.

If I ever move to CR (and I consider this for quite a while) I will blame this book for my decision. Besides being informative, the book is extremely funny - reminds me of Jerome K Jerome. See you in Paradise, Nadine and Rob.

There are very few books in existence that simply describe what it's like to be an ex-pat in Costa Rica, (trust me, I've scoured the book stores and interwebs.) I am so thankful Nadine decided to write about her and Rob's experiences there. Y'all, this is not a how-to book on moving to Costa Rica, (if you want a great "how-to", check out her latest book, The Escape Manual... it's worth its weight in gold my friends!!) In this book, Nadine comically describes some of the frustrations of living in CR, (like dealing with Central American government bureaucracy, trying to get appliances repaired, random power outages, etc.) But she also lovingly describes all the wonderful aspects about living there. The biggest thing I took away from the book was how CR transformed her heart and inspired her to re-examine what's really important in her life, despite the "inconveniences". A lot of us can relate - many people experience a complete transformation during their time in Costa Rica. It's a slower-paced, magical country that Nadine does such a good job describing. This is going to sound sappy, but truly, Nadine's writings have soothed my Costa-Rica-lovin'-soul, and this book made me feel a little less heartbroken that I can't be there all the time, (yet!) She made me smile, she made me laugh out loud. Nadine did an awesome job verbally painting a picture of each scene and setting. I felt like I was right there with them, in the farmer's market, at the DMV, bouncing around on pot-holey roads, and (my favorite) watching the sunset. Like I mentioned above, I recently read her third book, The Escape Manual, and I highly highly recommend it to anyone, from those seriously plotting out their big move, to those who are just curious about the logistics. I'm currently in the middle of her second book, The Sequel. I'm afraid I'm going to sink into a deep depression after I finish this one - I'm going to miss running around CR with Nadine and Rob. If you're like me and crave anything and everything Costa Rica related, be sure to "like" her facebook page, (search for Happier Than a Billionaire). She posts tons of pictures and tidbits about the country to her page, daily. Keep writing sister! Can't wait to read what you write next! <3

I bought this kindle edition because friends recommended it to me. They loved the book, or so I thought. So because of this I have forced myself to try and read it. I am 55% thru on the kindle and have stopped. I just cannot bother with this nonsense any longer. There is so much misinformation not only about Costa Rica, but about health, nature, people and so on that to read and believe this stuff will poison your mind with misconceptions of reality. The author sounds like a fun person but she talks way too much, takes long detours down memory lane of her younger years in the USA and provides almost zero useful information for people considering moving to live in Costa Rica. I did not read every word, jumping over the day dreams and memories of USA, and kept looking for the gold. Since I have lived in Costa Rica for over 20 years, I am more then qualified to state emphatically that you cannot trust the statements in this book about the country and the people.

Nadine has written the funniest and most informative book I have ever read. Seriously thinking of retiring to Costa Rica... This book gives you all the dish and and a whole bunch of desert to go with it!!! Also finished the sequel, it also was another fantastic read!!!!

Nadine should consider stand up comedy! The book was fantastic, plenty of great info about CR but the laughs were a highlight!!! I have the sequel which I will start very soon...straight after I book my Nadine inspired trip to Costa Rica ...

I really liked this book. I love reading stories where people step outside of the box and realize there is more to life. Nadine and her husband challenged themselves to find something bigger in life, and they did. Congratulations to them for sticking with it and writing a great story!

I am LOVING this book, "Happier than a Billionaire". I cannot put it down, Nadine has me simultaneously falling off my chair and peeing my pants I am laughing so hard. My husband, kids and I spent 2 weeks in Panama last year so we can relate to some of her adventures, though Nadine makes them sound so much funnier! I just love reading books that you can both see yourself in yet be laughing hysterically at the same time. We all definitely need to learn to laugh at ourselves and our circumstances more often. Nadine is the Janet Evanovich of non-fiction travel writing in my opinion. If you've thought about moving to Latin America or traveling there, you must read this book. I'm recommending it to all of my friends and family (and that's saying something as I read about a book a week). 5 Stars for sure!

Considering my husband and I are planning on retiring in Costa Rica, this book tells the highs and the lows of such a move. I don't think I could have done it the way they did, but what a funny story! We have been to Costa many times and still have not found the perfect location to settle in..there are so many! On a scale from 1 to 10, I give it a 7.

I really enjoyed this book, it was such a delight to read. Nadine writes with such humour, I found myself laughing out loud. We moved down to Panama last year and built a house and I could understand some of her experiences as we had some of the same. Great read!

If life is running you and your not running your life. Push pause.Nadine shows you how. With having spent some time in the same area a few years ago and loving it she really helped bring back those memories. Thanks for writing this and I look forward to reading the next ones.

Nadine knows how to tell a story... she is witty and insightful in her new life in Costa Rica. She is an inspiration to those who need to learn to "listen to their hearts and follow their dreams". She paints a wonderfully funny story of her adventures and misadventures as she ventures into "paradise" and learns of life in a new country. I found myself chuckling with every turn of the page. Her husband's optimism in the face of adversity is to be admired and compliments Nadine's sense of humor to a tee... I wish them all the best in their new life and look forward to hearing more from Nadine as their life in the jungle continues to unfold.
Thoroughly enjoyable, and highly recommended... Nadine proves that money does not always equate to happiness, sometimes it's just the simple things in life... PURA VIDA!!

I stumbled upon this book as my husband and I are planning our second trip to Costa Rica. I can honestly say that both the original and the sequel had me laughing out loud many times and reading it to my husband. I would highly recommend this book if you are looking for a good, easy going read with some laughs.

This book is great I like the way Nadine describes what they have to go through getting set up in a new country. The way she has a good attitude about it. Thank you for sharing your adventure it gives me hope I can be as brave as you and your husband have been.

I became a Kindle reader so that I could read Nadine's book from cover to cover (which I did in record time).

I thoroughly enjoy her blog and wanted to get the whole story on how she and her husand transformed their lives from the ho-hum, slogging it out existence most of us tolerate to thoroughly enjoying every waking minute. I think Nadine is right - the more we have, the less we enjoy our lives, because we are distracted from recognizing what matters most.

But Nadine also has a truly unique, totally entertaining and humorous slant on the everyday that pumps up the humour quotient immensely. Her sense of humour is priceless and I thank her for all the laughs she has provided me with.

I'm looking forward to the next installments.

This is a laugh-out-loud, can't-breathe, tears-down-your-cheeks funny book.

I bought this because I like the idea of seeing how someone could conceivably drop everything and move to another country. I've had the same thought myself. The book is totally about that, but not so much a how-to as a hilarious chronicle of Nadine and Rob's experience of doing it. I can only hope if I ever make the move, they will turn out to be my neighbors.

I can't recommend this highly enough. It's just plain fun.

My Husband bought this book for me to read because he would like to move to Costa Rica. I always said "no way"! Well, after reading this book it makes it seem possible to live your dream. It was a fun book to read and if you like this one...read the sequel...because the adventure continues!

Nadine did a fabulous job capturing the good and not so good realities of moving to Costa Rica! Very beneficial to us as we are considering moving there in retirement. Thanks for making us laugh as we dream about the future!!

This book makes you wanna pack your bags n leave your busy life behind n move for peaceful life. It's an easy read, she is so hilarious. Must read If you ever think of moving away from your comfort life.

Perhaps it's because years ago I myself moved to a foreign country, and I could relate to many of the mishaps and inconveniences, or perhaps it is just because this author knows how to spin a good tale. Either way I laughed out loud when reading many of the hilarious excerpts that were real life to this couple! The author has a great sense of humor and her book was a much needed respite from my tough work week.

I found the book not just funny but therapeutic. A couple of times at meetings I was secretly reading the book and had to put my hand over my mouth to try not to bust out laughing. Thank you Nadine for being vulnerable enough to be real in your writing.

Recently finished reading the Kindle version of Nadine's book. It is the funniest I have read in years. If this doesn't keep you laughing, you have zero humor. For anyone who lives, visits or is contemplating going to Costa Rica this is an absolute must read. It will keep everything in light-hearted perspective and remind you that even though you are trying to integrate yourself into a different culture, "Hey, how bad can it be?"" if you keep the right attitude. And, according to Nadine, the rewards will be well worth every trial you may face. For anyone else, if you just want a good read done by an author who has the ability find the humor in her trials and triumphs of dealing with day to day life in a foreign country this book is for you.

The author of this book and I went to the same high school in New Jersey together. As a result I really enjoyed the book as we share a common background with the New Jersey references. Overall this book was a way for me to vicariously live the fantasy of selling everything and moving to a foreign country with out actually doing it. I have been to Costa Rica and it is indeed a magical and beautiful place. Congratulations to Nadine of a job well done. (I trust there will be more literary works to follow).

Awesome book! Very easy and entertaining read. Nadine, you are gifted at storytelling. I cannot wait for the sequel. I am sure that Delores will find some new problems for you to solve. I especially like that you brought Pumpkin and Clementine and would love to heart more about their adventures!

Fun and funny! Starts out a little slow but really gets going a quarter of the way through. I recommend it to anyone who enjoys a fun adventure book; whether or not they have ever been to Costa Rica.

As others have said, this is a funny book. I don’t know why Pisani frequently descends into potty humor. If I wasn’t so curious about Costa Rica, I wouldn’t have read past the first page. But I’m glad I did, although I wondered later why she kept mentioning “boogers” at one point. Really? Still, I overlooked it because the book is mostly funny, informative and entertaining. It’s a quick enjoyable read. But why no pictures?

Nadine is a wonderfully descriptive writer, and not afraid to share all of her experiences, no matter how embarrassing! This book is so much fun to read, and it feels like you are right there with her for all of the new life adventures! It also helps you to stop and realize that there is more to life than just work and stress and money. You don't have to give up everything and move to another country to acheive her level of happiness, you just need to realize that life should be lived, enjoyed, experienced and fulfilling! Read this book, let your hair down, fall into some bat guano and laugh out loud!!

An earnest account of an American couple trying something risky and fun. It was very enjoyable to read out loud to my wife. This tiny slice-of-life book has a joyful spirit like grouplove's song "Tongue Tied". We're heading to Costa Rica to check it out for ourselves...

This is a great read and I will want to see more from the author. However, I agree with the view that it needs better copyediting. To add more examples to what has already been said about this problem, the author needs to bone up on her grammar. For example, she often uses an adjective where an adverb is called for, as on p. 90, "he is able to handle emergencies quicker," where the descriptive should be "more quickly," or she will use the wrong pronoun, as on p. 206 where she states that "They make my husband and I look like prudes" when it should be "my husband and me" (now, she wouldn't say "they make I look like a prude," would she?). In the latter case, she should have parsed the sentence to arrive at the correct grammatical form. There are places where she simply misspeaks, as in the phrase, "once and a while," which should have been "once in a while." These kinds of errors are all too frequent in the book--enough to be jarring to a stickler like me. That being said, however, I know that, as a retired college professor and as an academic editor for a major publishing firm, I will never be as good a writer as Ms. Pisani. She juxtaposes what at first seem to be unrelated experiences and seamlessly stitches them together to find irony and humor. The result appears to be effortless, but in fact, is mark of a great talent.

You have to take the book for what it is, which is a series of stories of an American couple trying to adjust to their new exotic environment. For me it was a let down since I was more interested in the how can you achieve this. For me there was nothing new since I already live in an exotic country, Ecuador, and I was born acclimatized so all the misadventures this couple encounters in trying to adjust to Costa Rica are mere nuisances. For me the most important part of making it succeed was the economics, how can you get away from it all and make a good life, how do you budget it, what kind of economic activity can you engage while living there, etc. I am seriously considering a relocation as I have made a good life in Ecuador working for various transnational companies and have accumulated some material wealth through the years but since my country is going the socialist way as our current president Rafael Correa is trying to emulate his buddy Hugo Chavez and is making a mess out of my country I am looking for afresh start in other country. For me Costa Rica is ideal as it is the more stable of the Central American countries and a continous democracy for many decades in part because they don't have a standing army. I know about the rich natural environment but what deters me is how to make a living because unless you are super rich and can live out of the dividends on your investments you need an economical activity to make ends meet, I supposed the book will cover some of this and since it didn't it was a let down for me. If you are looking for an amusing story of trying to fit to a new reality then the book will not disappoint but if you are looking for a how to do it guide then look elsewhere.

I really wanted to like this book. I'm intrigued by people's adventures, especially when taking a chance on yourself and going all in on something you believe in. The majority of this story is a whiny, ignorant, ungrateful, pretentious, spoiled woman complaining about how hard it's been adjusting to living out her dream early retirement in Costa Rica. Her and the husband are either super unlucky or just really really dumb with all the things that happened to them. Honestly, about half the unfortunate events I find really hard to believe. When I finished the book I was half upset and half inspired.

This is a great book about getting up and doing what most people only dream about doing. Very funny and accurate (I have lived in Central America). Quick read you can bang this out in a few hours then tell your spouse you want to move to Costa Rica- seriously!!!!

My husband was enjoying this book so much, to avoid sharing his copy with me, he purchased a second copy. As other readers have said, this book is incredibly funny. Nadine grabs your attention in the first paragraph and keeps it to the last sentence. I read this book in a day. My husband and I are currently planning our retirement in Costa Rica and have read several books on the subject. It was a treat to read about experiences we hope to be enjoying ourselves shortly. Other writers provide more information about the legal and economic details ex-pats need to be aware of but, "Happier Than a Billionaire" convinced us retiring in Costa Rica was the right decision. We found this book to be entertaining, funny and a thoroughly enjoyable read.

Who would think a chiropractor who decides to chuck her miserable life for the tropics would turn out to be a damn good writer? Another one of life's pleasant surprises I guess.

I just got the book and read the first few chapters - it's a fun read, and Nadine writes with an edgy wit and world-class humor that I know is not easy to learn, unless it comes naturally - which it seems is the case for her.

Nadine could easily be a writer-for-hire for a sitcom or anything that needs quality humor, and who knows... maybe through the power of the internet she'll someday be writing an Emmy-winning sitcom from her perch on a Costa Rican beach.

Well done Nadine... and enjoy your life. Count me as your latest fan:)

I read the whole book in two sittings... Yes, it is that good! Just as other reviewers said, the author’s humor and wit are very engaging and laugh out loud funny. I also learned a lot about Costa Rica and the trials, tribulations, and benefits involved with moving there, which was very welcome as my husband and I are considering making the same move. I’m ordering the author’s next two books right now!

Loved the book. Couldn't put it down. Life isn't about killing yourself in a job you hate just to buy more stuff. What I particularly enjoyed was that, to me, it was more a book about living off the grid, whether it be in Costa Rica or anywhere else. I enjoyed the humor particularly and wasn't really interested in a how to manual. So this book served as inspiration to me to jump out there, enjoy this life, and get off this treadmill of working to pay off credit cards so you can buy more stuff. Great Read.

My husband was enjoying this book so much, to avoid sharing his copy with me, he purchased a second copy. As other readers have said, this book is incredibly funny. Nadine grabs your attention in the first paragraph and keeps it to the last sentence. I read this book in a day. My husband and I are currently planning our retirement in Costa Rica and have read several books on the subject. It was a treat to read about experiences we hope to be enjoying ourselves shortly. Other writers provide more information about the legal and economic details ex-pats need to be aware of but, "Happier Than a Billionaire" convinced us retiring in Costa Rica was the right decision. We found this book to be entertaining, funny and a thoroughly enjoyable read.

Who would think a chiropractor who decides to chuck her miserable life for the tropics would turn out to be a damn good writer? Another one of life's pleasant surprises I guess.

I just got the book and read the first few chapters - it's a fun read, and Nadine writes with an edgy wit and world-class humor that I know is not easy to learn, unless it comes naturally - which it seems is the case for her.

Nadine could easily be a writer-for-hire for a sitcom or anything that needs quality humor, and who knows... maybe through the power of the internet she'll someday be writing an Emmy-winning sitcom from her perch on a Costa Rican beach.

Well done Nadine... and enjoy your life. Count me as your latest fan:)

I read the whole book in two sittings... Yes, it is that good! Just as other reviewers said, the author’s humor and wit are very engaging and laugh out loud funny. I also learned a lot about Costa Rica and the trials, tribulations, and benefits involved with moving there, which was very welcome as my husband and I are considering making the same move. I’m ordering the author’s next two books right now!

Loved the book. Couldn't put it down. Life isn't about killing yourself in a job you hate just to buy more stuff. What I particularly enjoyed was that, to me, it was more a book about living off the grid, whether it be in Costa Rica or anywhere else. I enjoyed the humor particularly and wasn't really interested in a how to manual. So this book served as inspiration to me to jump out there, enjoy this life, and get off this treadmill of working to pay off credit cards so you can buy more stuff. Great Read.

I read this book after seeing an interview online (one of the many interviews that the author has given about her experience).

I absolutely loved this book; the author certainly doesn't sugar coat her experience: yes, there are lots of potholes in the roads, and some American products are expensive (like Windex), but she also shows us that anyone with a small passive income can do this-- move away to a tropical paradise and live a very different life.

My husband and I have been researching our own move for months, and we've already planned our first trip for Decemeber. Thanks Nadine! You gave us hope that we can really do this!

I loved this book and did not want it to end. It was hilarious and actually made me laugh out loud. It was wonderful to read about the adventures of Nadine and Rob in their move to Costa Rica. Having been to Costa Rica recently, I can understand wanting to move there!

Who can't relate to the fantasy of chucking it all and moving to paradise? Nadine and husband did just that, and she shares their experiences in a very humerous read. I ALMOST wished that my flight had been another hour to finish the book in one sitting. I will certainly purchase anything Nadine writes in the future - YOU GO GIRL!!

This is a very easy read, extremely humorous. Nadine has a great way of looking at her and her husbands life and bringing it to life in a humorous way for the reader. Their adventure is one many of us in middle age may dream about, when life gets hard, complicated, work unfullfilling and the understanding that continued accumulation of 'stuff' does not make us happy. Very enjoyable read.

I picked up this book as a result of the CNN article, and reading through Nadine's blog. As a native New Yorker who traveled to Costa Rica and didn't have a great trip, I was totally intrigued as to why two educated, successful, people from NY/NJ would want to chuck it all and move there.

The book is a hilarious recount of Nadine and Rob's adventures/misadventures, but more importantly finding true happiness in living a simpler, slower paced life. There's some great lessons to be learned here. Plus it's made me want to go back to Costa Rica.

You won't be sorry you picked this one up.

This was an extremely entertaining book. Let me say from the start, though, that this is not a "How To Move To Costa Rica" type book. This book chronicles the reasoning behind and the adventures of a couple that decide to up and move to Costa Rica. Nadine uses lots of humor and stories. While some of the stories may be a bit far fetched, most show the adventures and misadventures of their move. I think it does a great job of getting into the mind of the author. And if you use a little bit of creative thinking, you CAN actually learn some information about making the move. Her 3d book, however, does a much better job of giving step by step guides. I strongly recommend this book to use as a backdrop for serious research (you know that Fedor's isn't the most entertaining book on the subject).

I really enjoyed reading this book, realizing there is a happiness out there beyond the rat race. The adventures and descriptions are hilarious. Reminds me of Eat, Pray, Love. I have never been to Costa Rica, but I really want to check it out now. Very fun, educational book to read.

The author did a wonderful job of making me laugh at all her family's struggles and misfortunes, while communicating the positive impact living in Costa Rica has had on her life. I chose the book, almost at random, having visited Costa Rica for the first time earlier this year.

The US population is growing in Costa Rica, and the author painted an entertaining and realistic picture of what a US citizen might expect living in this beautiful country.

The book is an easy read. A cool drink, tropical setting, and a few hours would be the ideal setting for perusing "Happier Than A Billionaire."

Nadine Hays Pisani is hilarious! I laughed my whole way through this book. I had never heard of her and didn't know she had a blog. (Her blog is my next stop after writing this.) Best book I've read in a long time. I hope she writes another book soon. She was meant to write!

A really nice and engaging writing style lead you on a wonderful journey as Nadine and her husband integrate themselves into the Costa Rican culture. Not much of value for anyone wondering how they got there - both chiropractors that sold their businesses and used that money to start over. It's a fun story, but that's it. And, really, that's all you need!

It's been a while since I've sat down with a book and wanted to read it cover to cover, all in one sitting. This is one of those books. Even if you have never been to Costa Rica, Nadine Pisani's style of writing brings you into the story and makes you feel like you are there. And if you have been to Costa Rica, her take on the lifestyle is dead on. Bravo for her for taking the leap to follow a road less traveled, and thanks so much for taking us along. Let's just hope she does not entice all of us into leaving our day jobs for the jungles of Costa Rica. It sure is tempting!

This book is exactly what I hoped to read before visiting Costa Rica for the first time. I appreciated Nadine's real accounts of making the transition, and her humor had me in tears from laughter. I look forward to her future books!

The premise of the book is great, dropping out of the rat race and moving to Costa Rica. I think it could have been more entertaining and informative if the author wasn't trying so hard to be funny. There is probably enough good material to be found in telling the real story rather than turn every scenario into a hyperbole-laden attempt to be funny.

Everyone gets sick of their work and boring everyday life but Nadine and her husband had the courage to make a drastic change and start living the way they wanted to. This is not easy to do so I give them a lot of credit. This book is a great read if you have ever wanted to just drop out and live the simple life. This account of their adventures in Costa Rica will have you laughing out loud and unable to put this book down. Living the pura vida is not possible for me right now but this book gives me inspiration knowing others have done it.

So glad I stumbled across this book. I laughed with and at Nadine through this whole book. I believe it is her first and can hardly wait for her next. Until then, reading her blog will have to do :) A very gifted writer!

What I loved most was that I could see myself on these adventures. I was happy to join Nadine and her husband and escape into their world. Really a fantastic book that shows you there are ways to get off the hamster wheel and we can enjoy a spin doing something else. Thanks Nadine for a great book!

Just finished this entertaining book and I was impressed by the mix of the good (she had me with the first cup of coffee), the bad (scary wildlife) and the ugly (crime and potential crime). Add a healthy dose of humor and I now know that I can also do this. Better yet, I want to do this. As I reported to my kids, retiring to Florida is scarier to me than moving to Costa Rica.

Fun book, well worth reading. Makes me want to fly to Costa Rica to share a piña colada with this author and her husband. The bad reviews are so weird - what don't they like? Funny people? Funny adventures? Traveling? Happiness? Following a dream?

So glad I stumbled across this book. I laughed with and at Nadine through this whole book. I believe it is her first and can hardly wait for her next. Until then, reading her blog will have to do :) A very gifted writer!

What I loved most was that I could see myself on these adventures. I was happy to join Nadine and her husband and escape into their world. Really a fantastic book that shows you there are ways to get off the hamster wheel and we can enjoy a spin doing something else. Thanks Nadine for a great book!

Just finished this entertaining book and I was impressed by the mix of the good (she had me with the first cup of coffee), the bad (scary wildlife) and the ugly (crime and potential crime). Add a healthy dose of humor and I now know that I can also do this. Better yet, I want to do this. As I reported to my kids, retiring to Florida is scarier to me than moving to Costa Rica.

Fun book, well worth reading. Makes me want to fly to Costa Rica to share a piña colada with this author and her husband. The bad reviews are so weird - what don't they like? Funny people? Funny adventures? Traveling? Happiness? Following a dream?

i just came back from a two week trip in costa rica. we rented a car and travled through the country. when i came back i happened to stumble across this book and read it in one night. i thorougly enjoyed this book and even had to visit her website. the book is a hoot and a lot of fun to read.

This book is for everyone, regardless of wanting to go to Costa Rica or if you've already been here. I just read the book on the first 3 days of our trip to Costa Rica. The book is a quick read, absolutely hysterical and filled with laugh out loud stories of adventure. As difficult as it is to travel around or get anything done, the book perfectly describes why living (or visiting) Costa Rica will make you Happier Than A Billionaire. The book and the trip is priceless! Pura Vida!

I laughed out loud multiple times while reading this witty, hilarious and touching story about a life starting over in a new country. I loved the author's "tell it like it is" style of writing and found it difficult to put down!
I'm looking forward to reading the sequel.

Good read, very humorous and descriptive account of a move to Costa Rica. The book is written in a way that gives the reader a more realistic idea of what a move there would be like, versus some of the "go live overseas for X dollars per month" websites. Already reading the sequel.

After obsessing over my own possible move to Costa Rica I'm glad I took the time to sit down and absorb Nadine's lessons and journey.

Having similar anxieties in life, and a healthy dose of my own work induced stress I found a lot of myself in her writing. While my personal journey to a pura vida may involve a lot more surfing, I still got an incredible amount of value out of her stories. For that I couldn't be more thankful.

This was an incredibly easy read, and will be well worth your time.

Living to the fullest is easy with Nadine-through quitting my rat-race job and seeing the magic that is LIFE again. I actually felt her relief and am debating taking a similar route....She is very persuasive that I wouldn't regret it...
Nadine Gives wonderful perspective on the human experience of LIVING. Not just existing. one I personally can relate to. THANKS NADINE. Cheers to ringing in the new year with happiness, love for each other, and living life!

I have read many books about moving to and living in Costa Rica, and this is by far the most enjoyable. In fact it is laugh out loud funny and gives such a wonderful description of just what sorts of things one might expect moving to this country. I've always had the plan to eventually retire to Costa Rica, but now I'm ready to give it all up for the simple life a little sooner.

I just finished reading the book and loved it!! It was so good I couldn't put it down! I found myself laughing out loud several times while reading it, and after I write this review, I'm going to see if the author as written a sequel because I want to hear about more adventures in their lives. :)

As my first girlfriend said when she dumped me, "It's not you, it's me." While obviously most readers really liked it, I thought this book was way too steeped in similes and metaphors, not to mention the constant flashbacks, deviations from the theme, etc. If you're just looking for a fun read, I guess it's fine. But if you're actually trying to seriously learn about potentially moving to CR, get a different book.

For a book with "Happier Than a Billionaire" in the title, I was surprised about how much time was spent talking about the drudgery of her day to day life prior to moving to Costa Rica and all the issues she has once moving there. While this needs to be mentioned to put things in perspective, I felt there was an inordinate amount of time spent on the downers. To be fair, I did purchase the book in order to gain info as I am interested in moving to Costa Rica and this was much more of a personal narrative.

This book was a very fun read. Each chapter had me laughing even when you could predict what was going to happen. I laughed over and over in each and every chapter. I normally read more serious work like political or non fiction dealing with my work, but this one was well worth the time. It was the most fun I have had in a book in many years.

This is a must read! It is extremely funny and had me laughing out loud on many occasions. I was very sad when the book ended because I wanted to read more of the author's adventures. Luckily she has a blog!

One of the most fun, enjoyable and informative books about living overseas I've ever read
The author has a special gift for storytelling her perspective is unique, funny and extremely smart
I very highly recommend it

Really enjoyed this book. If you like travel books and have a good sense of humor, this is the book for you. After reading it, I wanted more information, so I found the blog and found the author on facebook. Hope to see another book out soon.

Laugh out loud funny! So well written that I actually forgot that I was the one reading the book and not the one experiencing the crazy adventures! I predict a screen play! This book would make an excellent movie.

I bought this book while searching for books about Costa Rica before a trip this month. While it isn't a guide book it is very informative about what to expect and is very entertaining. The author is funny all along and keeps your attention.

So happy I purchased the Kindle edition from the store. I did keep my wife awake at night with fits of giggles while reading the hilarious tales of life in Costa Rico. Well written and enjoyable to read. JakeW

I am not an avid reader but I could not put this book down! It was exciting, very funny, and each chapter left me wanting more! Could not wait to get to the next chapter and see what new experiences and challenges were waiting for me to read!

SO FUNNY! I love Costa Rica and frequently fantasize about moving there. I heard about this book from the authors blog (which is super awesome) and just had to support her and buy it. I am so glad that I did but beware that if you already lust after the life of a costa rican expat, this book won't help you get over it!

This is not a book about moving to and living in Costa Rica as it is about the misadventures, real or imagined, of a couple in Costa Rica. It is hard to believe that all these "Keystone Kop" situations could happen to just one couple in just one year and that they somehow managed to survive them. It's more of a sit-com than a relocation aide. As such, it is not very informative to future ex-pats. The author complained about Costa Rica so much throughout the book you'd never guess she could be happy there. She gave a glowing description of Nicaraugua that made me think that was where she should relocate to. For these reasons, I never considered reading the sequel; probably just more of the same. A much more informative book is "Hope, Happiness and Pura Vida" by Debbie Knight or, if you are interested in Ecuador, "Living and Retiring in Cuenca" by Connie Pombo. Both are useful, well written and just excellent. Sorry, "Happier than a Billionaire...." just wasn't that useful to me.

I am almost done with this book and I love it! It is light-hearted and informative, and laugh-out-loud funny! My husband has heard me laughing so much that he is going to read it next! I am an avid reader, and this book is definitely on my list of favorites!

SO FUNNY! I love Costa Rica and frequently fantasize about moving there. I heard about this book from the authors blog (which is super awesome) and just had to support her and buy it. I am so glad that I did but beware that if you already lust after the life of a costa rican expat, this book won't help you get over it!

This is not a book about moving to and living in Costa Rica as it is about the misadventures, real or imagined, of a couple in Costa Rica. It is hard to believe that all these "Keystone Kop" situations could happen to just one couple in just one year and that they somehow managed to survive them. It's more of a sit-com than a relocation aide. As such, it is not very informative to future ex-pats. The author complained about Costa Rica so much throughout the book you'd never guess she could be happy there. She gave a glowing description of Nicaraugua that made me think that was where she should relocate to. For these reasons, I never considered reading the sequel; probably just more of the same. A much more informative book is "Hope, Happiness and Pura Vida" by Debbie Knight or, if you are interested in Ecuador, "Living and Retiring in Cuenca" by Connie Pombo. Both are useful, well written and just excellent. Sorry, "Happier than a Billionaire...." just wasn't that useful to me.

I really do like the premise of this book. As a traveller myself just returning from another country, I can related to these first time experiences of the littlest but most significant differences of other countries (i.e. suicide showers, as this author phrases it). However, the authors attempt at being witty turns into talking about things that have nothing to do with her trip. For example, while talking about the crazy unsafe showers, she talks about her nieces not experiencing thrashing around in the car because of seatbelts being used. She takes up a whole page with this digression (granted, kindle pages are a lot shorter) but still. It made it difficult and boring for me to read because it is so back and forth. Some people might like this type of writing but it isnot for me.

I picked up this book on Kindle hoping it would be a good entertainment for a trip to Thailand. While it has some good insights, I found that some of the stories were a little over the top, trying so hard to be funny that they just lost me.
I suppose I was expecting too much from the book since I share the author's story of quitting her job because you've become the worst version of yourself, and finding a new happier life elsewhere. The best part of the book were the author's description of the feelings and thoughts that you have as go from miserable to happy.
Worth the read, anyway.

Do you want to be entertained, or do you want to learn? This book is mostly for entertainment purposes. It is a collection of the author's crazy, wacky, zany misadventures. Many of her stories have nothing to do with Costa Rica. Very colorful, but very light on useful information. The author also has an odd obsession with feces and urine. You read that right. Whenever she encounters an animal in her travels (which is fairly often), you can expect a reference to how she was somehow affected by its excrement. Very strange. Also, plenty of references to farts, vomiting, and "boogers." I understand the author is trying to be campy and fun - maybe I was just annoyed because I was reading a chronicle of silliness when I was hoping for information I could use. A book can be entertaining AND informative. If you like the author's brand of humor, you will find it entertaining.

I just finished reading this book on my Kindle and loved it. It had me laughing out loud, in fact my wife kept looking at me like I had lost my mind! She will read it next, than I can throw barbs at her. This book was funny, sarcastic, insightful and just downright a pleasure to read. Her style of writing is light and fun, but also very insightful into what her daily life is like living in Costa Rica. I can't wait to read her next book about her continuing adventures in this exotic land. I highly recommend this book !!

I started and finished reading this book in one day. The author's style of writing made the book a real delight to read. Her ability to mix personal stories with factualvinformation about the trials and joys of her life changing decision is excellent. I found myself laughing out loud at many points and marveling at the courage this couple showed at others by simply dropping everything and starting a new life in Costa Rica. Having to navigate a foreign country where you don't speakvthe language has got to be a challenge but the author makes it seem like the most practical and joyous experience. Imagining her husband going through a game of charades to get his point across still makes me laugh.

I think anyone who is caught invthe rat race and fed up with simply going through the motions of waking up, going to a job that is not what you really want to be doing, fighting the commute home just so you can go to bed and do it all again will find themselves living vicariously through this couple and wishing they had the courage to simply sell everything and start over.

For someone who is not a "professional writer," the author's style and writing is excellent and much better than many authors who have been published over and over. The fact that we can keep up with their lives through her blog is an added bonus (although after reading the book you'll wish like I do that she would post updates more often). Overall, I would recommend this book to anyone without reservation if only so that they can see that there is light at the end of the tunnel, you just have to be willing to take the chance.

...because of this book I now download free samples before purchasing. If you like the writer's "voice" in the first paragraph it's pretty consistent through the next 90 pages (I got as far as the Swiss Bank story).

A sophomoric essay about two city people who decide to chuck their overpaid lives and move to a third-world country without ever having even visited the place. They don't even speak a word of the native language! Predictably, they make every mistake imaginable up to and including giving ex-pats a bad name in the wonderful country of Costa Rica. These two should have stuck to walks in Central Park and their phony careers as chiropractors. They are not suited for life outside the city limits (nor, for that matter, as a writer). Total waste of time.

Almost every single paragraph is an attempt at humor. I got through 50 pages by telling myself it would be better. I was disappointed. I saw the author and her husband on the Reserve Channel on YouTube and really liked them and their story. The book, for me, was just unreadable. Every time I started to read it I became too annoyed with the attempted humor to go on. Finally after several attempts I just had to put the book away.

This book does not really offer perspectives on how to expatriate, but rather offers the chronicles/misadventures of a rather annoying narrator. She tries to come off as humerous, but instead come across as ditsy and ill prepared...apparently never making any attempt to learn spanish in a Spanish speaking country, nearly drowning in 3 feet of water for no apparent reason, and pulling a loaded gun out when hearing forest creatures on her back patio. Furthermore, there are quite few misspellings and the sequence of some stories are confusing/rambling. I am about 3/4 of the way through, and am giving up. Seasoned travellers stear clear of Pisani's Costa Rican disaster chronicles.

For experienced travelers, this book will not add any humor or insight. Nadine describes normal recurring events that happen when one travels or lives outside the US but writes in a way that makes her situations sound unique and funny. This book is more like an online blog written by a college student studying abroad, who is figuring out stuff about him/herself and describing things about life that everybody already knows.

Nadine is a good writer but unfortunately for her, that is the only thing going for her in this book.

Highly readable and somewhat amusing, but at the same time, it feels like the memoir of a middle aged woman from suburbia leaving the confines of her cul-de-sac for the first time. And while reading it I could not help but feel that maybe some people shouldn't really ever go further than the local strip mall. The author portrays herself, and her husband, as people who have traveled little, are more acculturated to potato chips (Doritos also gets a mention), and frequent Olive Garden (Arby's too). She opens the memoir with a fart - it is funny, but it also sets the tone for a decidedly low brow adventure. She is little traveled, and exercises even less. So, of course, riding a horse for the first time is going to be amusing to her but it just isn't all that amusing to me. Either the author tries way too hard to be relatable to the average reader, and at times seems desperate to be funny, or she really just is that provincial. In either event, sharing the out of shape adventures of a middle class philistine are just too small time to keep me vested. I found myself steeped in mediocrity, and for me, the author was too unattractive to really get involved with.

Happier Than a Billionaire: Quitting My Job, Moving to Costa Rica, and Living the Zero Hour Work Week

Few things in life are more difficult than being funny in writing. Many have attempted it and most have shown themselves wretchedly inept.

The author of this book, Nadine Hays Pisani, has been praised for her humorous handling of the subject of stepping off the first-world marry-go-round and finding contentment in a developing nation. To be sure, hers is a unique voice in the world of humorous writing.

She demonstrates a deft hand when touching subjects that others might take well over the top. What another humorist might handle with slapstick, the author tackles it with lightly, and sometimes not so lightly, acerbic good humor. In short, with this book, wherever you think the humor herd would turn right, Ms. Pisani would assuredly go left. I don't believe it is because she is a contrarian, but because her distinctive style and rare talent for humor calls for her to call `em as she sees `em.

It should not be forgotten the author is equally comfortable with touching poignant, thoughtful or sensitive moments with a grace and simple elegance that is rare these days.

This book has received some comments about its not being a realistic representation of the facts and realities of expat life in Costa Rica. Those comments miss the mark entirely. This is not THE story of the Costa Rican experience and does not pretend to be. It is one couple's story and that fact is clearly stated in the book's description.

I am an expat living in Costa Rica. Nearly all of this book's stories resonated with me. Those that did not, didn't because the situation hasn't arisen - yet. Believe me, I know of no resident of Costa Rica who has not run into the challenges presented so delightfully in this book.

While you're busy believing me, take this to heart: if you are thinking of following the author's example, don't forget to pack your sense of humor. If possible, pack two or three. Living in a foreign country demands that you be able to laugh at yourself and the odd moments that populate every day. The author tells us that in wonderfully rich detail.

For my money, Nadine Hays Pisani has captured the feel of the living-foreign experience beautifully. I can say, "for my money" because I have purchased several copies of Happier Than a Billionaire to give to friends, family and acquaintances that ask, "What's it like?"

Nadine Hays Pisani - remember that name. It is one you will associate with a rare gift for causing you to laugh good and hard, for allowing you feel the warm tropical breeze on your face and maybe for motivating you to take a good hard look at your life. If that doesn't work for you, just read it for the fun of the thing. There's lots of fun on every page.

By all means, try Happier Than a Billionaire: Quitting My Job, Moving to Costa Rica, and Living the Zero Hour Work Week. It is the cheapest vacation you will ever take. I think you will find the book difficult to put down and for the thoughtful, hard to forget.

I absolutely LOVED this book. I've read a lot of "I'm moving to ... country" and they are usually step by step books or somewhat boring because the author is not a true writer or hasn't done enough editing to make the story flow well. Nadine did an amazing job and I actually read it to my fiancee, as we sat on the beaches of Greece, and were laughing out loud. We both actually started crying because we were laughing so hard. Two examples of these are the gun incident and the bullet ant.

My fiancee, Jill, and I are figuring out how to do the same thing and escape from the 9-5 world and live our lives traveling, spending time on beaches, and enjoying each moment as it comes, and this book gave a lot of wonderful inspiration and ideas to us.

I am very much looking forward to reading the sequel and seeing what happens as Nadine and her own "Vin Diesel" work towards building their house in Costa Rica.

This was a very fun read. I have read both this and the sequel and found myself laughing out loud on more than one occasion. Having been to Costa Rica it not only brought back memories, but made me want to go back to check out some of the things the author talks about. This is not a "how to move to Costa Rica" book, but has some of that. It doesn't have much information on how much things cost or where they get the money, at least in the first one and only a bit in the second. But that is not what the book is about. It is one witty persons observation about her adventures and how they changed her and her outlook.

If you like a slightly dry and sarcastic voice from the author when reading a book I would certainly recommend this and the sequel. I was hesitant to buy the first one and couldn't wait to buy the sequel. I guess that really says it all.

When I got up one morning to see my boyfriend reading I was rather surprised. Not to say that he doesn't read but he rarely does it at home where there are hundreds of other things he is usually more interested in. By the time I got my coffee and settled in at the computer I had heard multiple bursts of laughter from him and had to know what story had him so entrenched. When he told me that it was this one, Happier than a Billionaire, I was curious and so I had him loan it to me when he finished (We both have kindles since my reading habit would have long ago outgrown our apartment)

I literally could not put it down. From start to finish the narrative is engaging and entertaining and honestly if something like this was broadcast on television I might actually decide to buy a TV. I highly recommend this to anyone who is looking for something different, something a bit inspiring, or even just an escape for a few hours. You never know, it may inspire you to go do what you really want to do instead of what you are doing now.

Author has many "adventures", but I found the book sad. They are well-off Americans complaining about how things don't work in a 2-3rd world country yet they DON'T SPEAK THE LANGUAGE!! Also, too bad her idea of an editor/proofreader was Microsoft Word spell check. You don't put an apostrophe before the "s" when you're making a noun plural. "Prospective" countries, not "perspective". "Stump", not "stomp". Spell check doesn't correct grammar!

I was excited to get this book after all the great reviews on the store. My husband and I took it on retreat as we are planning a trip to Costa Rica. We started reading it together and I thought - it has to get better. After three pages my usually optimistic husband said, who wrote this drivel? I had to agree. The author is trying (and trying is the right word) to be funny and fails miserably. Self-indulgent might be a good way to describe the author's writing style. This is painful to read. Whoever compared this to "A Year in Provence" is way off the mark - this book is not at all in the same caliber. All I can say is this book is a huge disappointment.

Where do I start? I seen a interview of Rob and Nadine Hays Pisani on facebook. I instantly knew I needed to read this book.

First a little story about me:

My bestfriend, who was my mom just passed away unexpectedly of a brain aneurysm in 2005. I knew I needed to get away from my depressed state of mind and clear my head. So, my husband and I spent 10 days in Costa Rica in 2005. Chris and I traveled to many Caribbean Island, but never to Costa RIca. Costa RIca is a Paradise of Heaven!

Knowing our love for Costa Rica I had to get the book, "Happier Than A Billionaire." I ordered the book and it finally came in the mail. I began reading this hilarious book and I could not put it down. Now you need to understand that the NCAA March Madness is going on, and my husband and I love to go over to friends house and watch the basketball games. I told him that I could not go because I had to continue reading my new book that I just got.

This book is the best read that I have ever been introduced to. I read this book within 24 hours. The fun and exciting adventures that Rob and Nadine takes you through Costa Rica is funny, amazing, yet making a person feel like you are on this adventure in Costa Rica with them. The funny stories about Dolores, the frozen bird and her five dogs had me laughing out loud. The many 90 day adventures to Panama and Nicaragua while getting your Costa Rica citizenship was eventful.

While I was reading her book I felt like I was right in Costa Rica with her. Her writing left me remembering the howler monkeys that we experienced on our trip, the beautiful and colorful birds and butterflies. If you have never had the chance to visit Costa Rica, her book will take you through the many adventures that Costa Rica will give you. Her book will tell you the beauty of Costa Rica, the true personality of Carlos and the other natives in Costa Rica. They are some of the most laid back and pleasant human beings in the world. I love the part where you and Rob decide to explore the albino bat caves with Kevin and his wife. Wow, what a daring adventure.

I am anxiously awaiting for the sequel of "Happier Than A Billionaire" and "The Escape Manual" I am sure that these two books are going to be as good as the first book. You must read these three books. I can say that Nadine Hays Pisani is the best author that I know of. Her book has put my life in perspective and has showed me that money is not always of value, and not having a stressful life is of essence. Thank you for sharing your many fun filled adventures that you and Rob has experienced! We will be visiting Costa Rica in March 2016 once again. This time we will take our daughter and show her the real meaning of life, laughter and the love of Costa Rica. Thank you for giving us a chance view the start of your lives in Costa Rica......

Great book, hilariously funny, honest, warm and engaging. I loved this writer who candidly shared the ups and downs of creating a new life for her and her husband. I think it is a great read for those not just contemplating moving to Costa Rica but for anyone contemplating change in their life because she faces all her fears, frustrations and insecurities and has the guts to write about it. Read the second book as well which is good but not quite as exciting, but still worth reading. This gal has chutzpah and so does her husband. When you are feeling down and out and totally frustrated, if you read this it will give you inspiration to get off your behind a do something different with your life. Bravo to them both and wish her the best of luck. To the naysayers who criticize this book, you are nuts. It is not a step by step manual, but more of a personal memoir about their old life and their change to a new life Would love to have them as neighbors and look forward to reading more about their wild and crazy adventures. With love from Paris, France

First, let me start by saying "We Love Costa Rica"! My wife and I have land in the Guanacaste region and are working on developing it with hopes of moving from the U.S. to CR. My wife came across the "Happier Than A Billionaire" series and suggested I read Nadine's first book. I have not read a complete book ever, that I can remember so on a rainy weekend I decided to sit down and start reading under the suggestion of my wife. I was captured by Nadine's wit from the first sentence! :) I could not put the book down and finished it Sunday morning.

Nadine holds back on nothing, even at the expense of calling her husband Rob out on what I feel are normal guy things but she sure knows how to make everything funny!

Since reading her first book I have read the rest in her series and cannot wait for the next (The House That Happier Built). She accurately and honestly reflects life in Costa Rica as an Expat and finds the good in situations that may test others abilities.

I highly recommend the "Happier Than A Billionaire" series and if you find yourself booking a trip to Costa Rica, be sure to contact Nadine and Rob to stay at their "Happier House"

Thanks for sharing your lives with everyone!

I admit it. I'm Nadine (and of course Rob's) number 1 fan. So this review is from the #1 (self declared) fan's perspective!

I first read this book about 2 years ago and it picked me up when I was very down. It gave me a burning new perspective on what life is really all about. On top of that, even Sandy (my lovely wife) said she never has heard me snickering, laughing out loud, and bellowing out bursting phrases life "you got to hear this one!" over and over.

This is not just a hysterical book. This a book about raw courage. It's a book about standing alone in an ocean of doubt and paddling out even further. It's a story of succeeding where everyone you know predicted certain failure.

This is a beautiful and true story that needs to be read. Nadine smacks the ball out of the park to do it. It is truly really a story about of the meaning of life, captured in an elegant and uniquely original style that rivals the finest story telling of this century.

The second book is not only a sequel. It offers the proof points that Nadine (and Rob's) message was right on the mark. Look beyond the humor and find the true gem in the message these books offer. You will find yourself giggling,smiling and laughing for at least an hour everytime you get done reading a section...but you will also feel a burst of something deep tugging at you alerting you to a much deeper message.

Well, I've probably taken enough of your time here in my review. So I'll sign off now. I'm not a book expert at all... just the "Frank" from the Frank and Sandy Show... but I wanted to encourage you to get this book....I sincerely hope it brings to you the gift that I know it has brought to me...and so many others. Pura Vida! Frank.

My husband and I have read all 3 of Nadine's books! LOVED them all! I highly recommend them! Very informative, great and funny stories! Once I started reading them I couldn't put it down! The stories reminded us so much of ourselves and we giggled and said "Oh that's so us for sure" My husband and I are planning to retire in a few years to Costa Rica ourselves and have to say for anyone who has never been..you must go! I give this couple alot of credit for doing it the way they did! God Bless you both and thank you Nadine for the very inspiring, helpful and funny books!..Nancy n Mark Powell ♡
PS: we also plan to visit your happy home soon!

Normally this is not the kind of book I read but I'm SO glad I did. The story of how I found the book is kind of funny. I was watching House Hunters International about a woman who moved to Costa Rica from the UK. I had to watch it because she moved there with her Vizsla, Rio. I have 5 Vizsla's (but I'm not as crazy as Dolores, I swear) and love to watch everything I can that has these beautiful dogs in it. After the show was over I wanted to see if I could find a link to the show on the internet but what came up first on my search engine was an the store review for this book, written by Rios owner. I read her review which was glowing and decided to buy it. Turned out to be some of the best money I've ever spent!

Last night my husband asked "I haven't seen you laugh like that in a long time, what are you reading?"

If you have no sense of humor you need to get one and read this book! It's fun, funny and when I was done I wanted to pack my bags, buy a hat to keep Bot Flys out of my scalp (read the book), move to Costa Rica, and make Nadine and Rob my best friends. I also immediately bought the sequel and am looking forward to starting it tonight!

You have to take the book for what it is, which is a series of stories of an American couple trying to adjust to their new exotic environment. For me it was a let down since I was more interested in the how can you achieve this. For me there was nothing new since I already live in an exotic country, Ecuador, and I was born acclimatized so all the misadventures this couple encounters in trying to adjust to Costa Rica are mere nuisances. For me the most important part of making it succeed was the economics, how can you get away from it all and make a good life, how do you budget it, what kind of economic activity can you engage while living there, etc. I am seriously considering a relocation as I have made a good life in Ecuador working for various transnational companies and have accumulated some material wealth through the years but since my country is going the socialist way as our current president Rafael Correa is trying to emulate his buddy Hugo Chavez and is making a mess out of my country I am looking for afresh start in other country. For me Costa Rica is ideal as it is the more stable of the Central American countries and a continous democracy for many decades in part because they don't have a standing army. I know about the rich natural environment but what deters me is how to make a living because unless you are super rich and can live out of the dividends on your investments you need an economical activity to make ends meet, I supposed the book will cover some of this and since it didn't it was a let down for me. If you are looking for an amusing story of trying to fit to a new reality then the book will not disappoint but if you are looking for a how to do it guide then look elsewhere.

This is a very entertaining book about a happy couple who gave up two sure-thing chiropractic businesses and packed up for a pretty much unknown tropical paradise. These people have great senses of humor and true adventurous spirits. Although the book is very entertaining, it's inspirational how they risked so much.

This book's main characters seriously mimic my life with my husband. We are both attorneys, who hate our jobs, who want to retire out of this country, specificaly in Costa Rica. We are doing a lot more research into it (including visiting the country quite often), but for the most part, our lives are very parallel to the author's.

Anyway, loved this book. Everything that was written about is so *costa rica* and so what someone would have to deal with moving there.

My husband, who rarely ever reads a book, is enjoying every second of it (he is not done yet).

I highly suggest this book. The reviewers who posted negative comments I think were expected this to be more of an informational book, and were not expecting it to be what it is--a light read, and look into the lives of Americans now living in the best country in the world, Costa Rica.

Just finished this book and cant wait to start the sequel! I dont think I've ever read a book with a permanent smile on my face through it all. Even had to put it down a few times just to throw my head back in laughter!!! Nadine is a truly gifted writer with a knack for making life's more challenging situations somehow hilarious. It's hard not to fall in love with her and Rob after getting to know them at their rawest moments. A must read for anyone considering a trip or move to central America, or anyone who just wants a feel good book with a happy ending!

My fiancé and I are planning to retire in Costa Rica so I've bought some land in the southwest side of the country. My fiancé got me this book before we make our next trip south this spring. Rob (husband) and Nadine have many (mis)adventures and it's written in a hilarious way. There are also some useful tidbits on how to navigate the country and its workings. I liked the first so much, I got the other two for Christmas present from the future wife. The Escape manual has has loads and loads of info on what needs to be done on everything from gaining residency, getting visas on how to exit the country every 90 days before residency is received and more info on the many uses of duct tape. Now it's on to The Sequel. It's fast and fun reading. I highly recommend the series of three.

I thoroughly enjoyed this book. It had me rolling with laughter, reading parts out loud to my husband and nodding in agreement--the situations described were quite accurate. Costa Rica isn't for everyone and the author does a great job of balancing the negative realities with the simple joys of moving to this beautiful country. We have had a house down there for years and have experienced much of what was described. We run into people who move there thinking they can change the country rather than adapt. They don't last long.

I hope that when we make our permanent move that we can enjoy the challenges with as much humor as the author.

I purchased the sequel today and hope that it has me laughing as hard as the first one did.

I have been researching a move to Costa Rica and in the process discovered Nadine's books. Her voice is a funny and genuine one, and I think it is refreshing to see that she is so grateful to her fans. It's a beautiful thing that she discovered her voice by ditching the conventional, embracing the unconventional, and that's exactly what I am planning to do myself. It has lifted the veil and her book has been a big part of it. Every page is Laugh Out Loud funny. Don't read it anywhere where you might disturb someone (this alludes to a very funny story in this book). Honestly, this book made me laugh a LOT and it made me happy. Happy for Nadine & Rob, happy for me & my family, happy for hope for a brighter future. Thanks, Nadine, for the laughs and the inspiration!!!!!! Pura Vida!

We are considering a move to Central America or South America. Rather than an instructional "how to" the author covers many of the typical and perhaps required situations via an entertaining and funny story telling of her own experiences of them.

I have read all of Nadine's books and I have to say they are right on point with Costa Rica life/ Frequenting Costa Rica and recently purchasing a home in Tamarindo, I have to say that the "quirky" ways of Costa Rica she writes about are spot on. I found this book to be very well written, funny,honest and inspiring. This book has paved the way for me to look at my hectic life and re-evaluate what is really important. I am hoping to make Costa Rica my home some day and all of Nadine's books have motivated me to getting there. Thank you Nadine for painting the perfect picture of both the beautiful and imperfect Costa Rica! You truly have shown what living life Pura Vida means.

Happier than a Billionaire is one of the funniest non-fiction reads I have ever come across. I don't know a thing about Costa Rica and have never been there, but that didn't matter at all. It was refreshing to read about all the experiences the author expresses in the book, and she is so candid about it. Her honesty is what made this book so great. I usually don't read anything to my husband but I found myself saying, "I have to read you this part." And by the end, I found myself ready to sell all my belongings so I could move to Costa Rica too (who knows, maybe I will do just that)! The author has a talent for expressing herself and entertaining her audience, so don't pass this one up!

--Cheryl Bradshaw, Author

After watching yet another episode of Ex-Pats and dreaming about doing that ourselves, my husband went and found this book for me for my Nook. I read it much quicker than I thought I would, and laughed out loud so many times! Seriously freaking the dogs out more than once :). Already bought number 2 and can't wait to read it! Although after flying through the first one in 3 days, I am pacing myself with the new one.

A common theme that seems to run throughout the reviews for this book is how laugh out loud-funny it is. And I can do nothing but to add to that theme. Now, I already give lots of laugh points to writers like P.G. Wodehouse, Mark Twain, and E.F. Benson (he wrote some very funny stories about a character named Lucia), and this book need not take a back seat to any of them. Granted, as one reviewer noted, there are some typos, but I didn't find them so numerous as to interfere with my overall enjoyment of the book.

In addition to the humor, there is a lot of sharp human observation and a story that ends up being one of self-discovery. I highly recommend it.

I was thinking of a move to Costa Rica, when I came upon this book and decided to give it a try. Every once in awhile a person is lucky enough to come upon a book that not only is informative, but is also entertaining. To find that in a non-fiction book is not common in my experience. Nadine is so funny. She has a great writing style. You will find yourself laughing out loud, and having to explain yourself to anyone listening. I highly recommend this book to anyone. It does not matter if you are moving, visiting, simply want more information about Costa Rica, or just want something good to read. You will not be sorry.

Just read this hilarious book after listening to my wife laughing every night while reading it. Such a simple yet interestingly funny story that will keep you eager to know more about the author's journey in life. The clash between cultures is the main idea and the foundation that makes this book a laugh out loud one. I had the pleasure of meeting the author and her husband in Costa Rica and let me say that they are as funny and charming as the book is. Can't wait to read the sequel........

Willie

I wish I knew Nadine Pisani in real life. Her writing and antics are hilarious, honest, and sometimes inappropriate- in a lovable, 'best friend' kind of way. Good for her for taking a chance and starting over in Costa Rica! Her fears and mistakes discussed throughout the book are laced with humor and relatability. One of the best books and perspectives on travel I've had the pleasure of reading.

As I logged in to write my own review, I read through a bunch of the negative reviews. Some of them are pretty amusing. It's fun to see humorless people kvetch about humor they don't get.

One comment for the haters: to those complaining that the book doesn't teach you how to move to Costa Rica -- you might as well complain that it doesn't teach you how to quit your job, or how to create a zero-hour workweek. Sheesh. There are tons of travel guides out there. This isn't one of them.

Personally, I loved the book. It literally made me laugh out loud, which was awesome. The writing style reminded me of Dave Barry. I'm guessing that some of the negative reviewers wouldn't like Dave Barry either, which is just sad.

The Kindle edition is so cheap that it's a no-brainer to buy. I dare you to find that kind of entertainment for a few dollars. Honestly, I think it's under priced.

Nadine is hilarious. I'm not a big reader, and I couldn't put the book down - it was an adventure from start to finish. My husband and I visited Costa Rica for our honeymoon, and we both said we want to buy a house there eventually. This book helped push me in the direction of actually starting to plan the purchase. It's definitely worth reading!

Nothing deep or requiring much thought here, but a very enjoyable account of the author's adventures upon relocating her entire life to Costa Rica. Lots of great clues as to what you can expect to find if you intend to spend much time in this beautiful, laid back country full of happy people and good food! I look forward to reading the sequel...

I am moving to Costa Rica for 6 months on my own to see if I want to relocate there and have read numerous books and articles that still left me without a feel for the place or information I needed. Nadine is such a funny writer that I found myself laughing out loud. She writes not only about the good things but also the hurdles of everyday life and that with the right outlook it is manageable for someone like me. In addition, there is a lot of great information that I have not found anywhere else. I read this book in one day and can't wait to read the follow up!

A few short weeks ago while scanning CNN.com I saw a link to this book regarding running away and living in Costa Rica. Update: I have now read over 1000 pages from various sources regarding this wonderful country and my wife and I have our flight set for October to "check it out". The book was very well written and entertaining, as it would have to be to get a couple of Nebraska people serious about taking on an adventure like this. I think Nadine could be a successful travel writer, or perhaps she already is! The descriptions of her escapades make for a quick read and her passion for the beauty of this country makes a person want to visit there as soon as possible. I look forward to reading her next writings and would hope they would also be about her Costa Rica life and experiences. I highly recommend this book!

I loved this book. A friend of mine loaned it to me, and as soon as I finished it I bought the sequel because I couldn't wait to see what other funny stories Nadine and Rob had to share. It was great getting an honest and funny account of two people about my age moving to Costa Rica, since I have long thought of doing the same thing.. If you have ever thought of moving to Costa Rica or just wondered what it might be like to pick up and move to a foreign county, this is a must read! It was informative but also kept me entertained and left me thinking about what is really important in life.

This somewhat funny treatise of a couple, who pulled up stakes and moved to Costa Rica without any preparation is a keystone cops like read. Unfortunately it casts them as another of the "Ugly Americans", who expect foreign nationals to behave like us. Anyone who moves to a foreign country without even trying to learn the language and then complaining because the people don't speak English is not laughable, it's stupid. These two chiropractors are obviously educated beyond their common sense. I am happy that I only wasted $3.00 on this piece of trash.

Nadine writes as if she is writing a letter to a dear girlfriend back in the states chronicling she and her husband Rob's adventures but also the fun misadventures. I love her honesty and candidness. I really feel like I got to know and like this couple.

This is an easy, breezy, enjoyable, laugh out loud funny account of an adventure most of us only dream about embarking upon.

I've also read the sequel and enjoyed that as much if not more. My favorite line from the sequel: '...once I stopped looking for more, I got everything I needed." Words that I will use as a mantra in my own journey towards a more fulfilling, less complicated, less cluttered and more natural existence.

I read all 3 books and really enjoyed them all. I share the same dream of living in costa Rica after visiting for 3 years in a row. These books made me laugh out loud, a lot. The information was very useful and answered lots of questions that i had. The funny stories are typical of costa rica and I've definately got my share of wtf moments. Thanks Nadine (and of course Rob) for sharing your experiences with us through your books and blog and i look forward to hearing more of your awesome lives in costa rica. Ps check out waterside at vandara,

Even if you have no desire to move to Costa Rica, this book is still worth the read. It is a very light, easy, and fun read - I laughed out loud several times and immediately bought the sequel when done. Each chapter is a new adventure (and mis-adventure!) worth exploring. If nothing else, Nadine and Rob are an inspiration to others who have the desire to live a non-conventional life and not be a slave to societal expectations. My husband and I desire a simpler life, and no matter where we may end up, reading this book shows that anything is possible and life is too short to spend it miserable!

Simply fantastic! Talk about an all in one product. Skip the travel section, the self help section and the comedic fiction and snuggle up with this book. As you follow Nadine and Rob on their journey hopefully you will see that with a little focus and determination our lives can be anything we want to make them. Will every day be perfect? No. But with a positive attitude and a lot of laughter Nadine and Rob have made their dreams a reality. The only thing stopping us from doing the same is...us. Even if you don't want to move to another country, this book helps you realize life truly is what you make of it. I dare you not to laugh out loud numerous times while reading. Can't wait for the next one!

I'd just finished reading Ten Thousand Miles by Freight Train: A Memoir of Beauty and Freedom on the Rails, and this book popped up in my "customers also read" section. After reading the story of a harrowing freight train journey across the continent, I was excited to go, albeit vicariously, to Costa Rica. The author's story is inspiring, and it made my currently boring world so much more pleasurable, if only for a day.

Nadine does a great job of combining factual information, detailed story telling and witty humor to entertain the reader. From the first pages you'll be laughing, while wanting to read more to where this journey takes her and her husband. She gains the respect of anyone who has wanted to get out of the hustle and bustle of "modern life" and step into a new paradigm of real living and taking a look at what is truly important in their own lives. She includes many life lessons for those who won't take the plunge to move to Costa Rica, in addition to providing several tips for those who want to. Once again, this is all wrapped in her humor and sarcastic spats aimed at her old country home, new land she lives in, her husband and herself. -Matt N.

This book had me laughing out loud! I love travel books, anything about places, people, food and culture. But especially if they're well written and funny, which this book definitely is. I felt like I was right there with Nadine, navigating Costa Rica as an expat, and enjoying every minute of it. She has a great outlook on life and you can't help but feel uplifted when reading.

I have to be honest -- I'm a little perplexed by some of the negative reviews on here. Nadine is pretty forthcoming about her mistakes throughout this book, and at no point do I see a reference to her being 'perfect.' Nor do I see anything in the book about expecting the natives to know English. Nor am I friend or family (I just happened upon this book while looking for info. on Costa Rica).

If you do your research you'll find that Nadine self-published. As a result, yes, there are some copy editing issues which I also noted (I am also an English teacher's daughter, so I can't help but notice these things). But really? I cannot imagine how anyone would not enjoy this book. It's light-hearted and downright funny. I enjoyed this book so much that I downloaded the sequel and read it in a day. Nadine and her husband do some truly absurd things, but Rob's antics kind of remind my of my own husband's, which makes it even funnier to me. I can see myself going through many of the same sorts of adventures that she does were we in the same situation.

Maybe 'normal' people don't actually think crazy people like us exist, but they do. :-) I'm personally not sure I would fly all the way to Switzerland attempt to open a bank account without doing my own research first, but I can see my husband going off half-cocked and trying to do something insane like that. And he is actually trying to convince me to run away to Costa Rica as we speak. I told him we could try a vacation there first (we leave this week), but whether I'm going to retire there is up in the air. I envy Nadine and wish we were in a position to run away like that, but unfortunately several obligations tie us down where we are for the time being.

Anyways, if you're looking for a step-by-step guide to moving to Costa Rica, this is not what you're after. However, if you want to get an idea of what the culture and living conditions are like in Costa Rica while being entertained, then this is the book for you. In many cases I think this book outlines very well what NOT to do when trying to move to Costa Rica, but this couple had a lot of guts to do what they did, while we're just all sitting around reading about it, so quit it with the criticism and grow a sense of humor. :-) Kudos to you for doing what you did, Nadine, and good luck with the house.

On researching experiences in Costa Rica I actually stumbled upon Nadine's blog first. I raved on and on about how wonderful her experiences were to my family and friends and before finally getting a chance to purchase a copy I had received it as a gift. I began reading immediately and could not put it down! It is a fun and easy read because the words come straight from the heart. Any doubt I had about traveling abroad has been eased by this wonderful story. We all are in search for happiness and should stop hindering ourself from our dreams! Happier Than A Billionaire is an inspiring story for twenty-something year olds (like myself) and beyond looking for peace! So happy to have read this book!

thankfully the negative reviews are very, very much in the minority. some are down right negative people, others overly analytical to good grammar and miss the point...sad. I loved this book, so did my wife, and all the 5 stars reviews here rolled up into one say it all for me. And we travel, live in Costa Rica, Tamarindo, so we could truly relate to much of her story. Highly Recommend...Rob
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I picked this up while considering a move to Costa Rica to teach English - very much in the same position Nadine was in before she made her leap of faith. If I had any doubts, they have been allayed! Tons of good information for anyone seriously considering relocating, but entertaining enough for all my friends who just want a great summer read. I can't wait to read the sequel (downloading it now) and will be following the blog and other adventures. I truly hope I run into this adorable couple when I get to Costa Rica and thank them in person for so candidly sharing their experiences and relaying the warmth and charm of this fascinating country!

I laughed so hard while reading about Nadine & Rob's adventures in their quest for happiness. She is honest, funny & so brave! I thoroughly enjoyed this book! Hope to see you soon Nadine& Rob!?

I stumbled upon this book while searching for travel guides to Costa Rica. I'm so happy I came across it. The book is an easy read about the adventures/misadventures of the author and her husband. For someone like myself who takes everything too seriously, it was a great eye-opener on the importance of stopping, relaxing and enjoying the little things in life. The stories were very humorous and had me laughing out loud every couple pages. I would highly recommend this book.

I read all three of Nadine's books before I bought my vacation/retirement home in Costa Rica. I highly recommend her books for anyone considering a move to Costa Rica or if you just want to have some great laughs along the way!

This book was an extremely refreshing read that had me laughing from beginning to end. You see the author's transformation throughout the book and it makes you start to think how you can live a similar life. Anyone with thoughts about quitting their day job and living in a completely different country should read this book. It'll help prepare you for all of the mishaps that can happen.

Nadine is fun. She can tell a story, and her quirky eye is fantastic, which makes this story fantastical. I kept having to apologies to those around me as I laughed out loud every few minutes.

Loved this, thank you Nadine.