Retirees' New Life: Moving To Bolivia

Bolivia is a South American country nestled in the Andean valley at 6,000 feet. It is known for its low cost of living, diverse culture, and stunning natural beauty. The country has a lot to offer retirees, from its awe-inspiring views of the Andes Mountains to its modern conveniences and friendly people. The cost of living in Bolivia is significantly lower than in the US, with rents starting at $200 in good neighbourhoods and utilities costing under $50. The country also boasts a vibrant expat community, with many retirees from around the world calling Bolivia home.

The low cost of living in Bolivia

Bolivia is one of the cheapest countries in Latin America and the world. According to Numbeo, a cost-of-living database, the average amount to cover basic, necessary expenses is 49.69% lower than in the US. This approximation does not include rent, but even then, Bolivia's rent is 73.56% lower on average.

A retired couple can live a very comfortable life in Bolivia for around $1,550 per month, and those who are more money-conscious can live on much less. For example, a couple could live well in Sucre on $1,000 a month, while a single person could live on $600 to $800.

In Bolivia, one-way airline tickets between cities can be bought for as little as $27, and a nice bottle of locally produced table wine costs less than $3. Taxi rides are available for 75 cents, and a family-sized platter of grilled meats with salad bar access is just $12.

Monthly rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the city centre ranges from $200 to $300. A three-bedroom house in the countryside can be rented for $200 a month. Utility costs are under $50 for everything.

Local restaurants offer a menu of the day, including soup, an entrée, fruit juice, dessert, and coffee, for under $2. A steak dinner with an all-you-can-eat salad and side dishes, plus a few glasses of local wine, will cost under $15 with a tip. Shopping for home cooking is also cheap, with a dozen eggs for $1.50, a pound of chicken breast for $1.50, and a pound of tomatoes for 50 cents.

Bolivia's two capital cities, La Paz and Santa Cruz, reflect these lower rates. Generally, renting a one-bedroom apartment in either city centre is affordable, with averages of $353.61 and $415.37, respectively.

Healthcare and insurance in Bolivia

Bolivia has a mix of public and private health facilities, which both cater to foreigners and locals. However, the country has one of the lowest healthcare rates in Latin America, and the availability and quality of healthcare are poor.

Public Healthcare in Bolivia

Public facilities are subsidized by the government but are underfunded and overused, resulting in long wait times and poor medical care. Outside of major cities, it is extremely difficult to find quality healthcare. The government has introduced basic public health insurance, which covers most of the costs of medical care and the full costs for at-risk groups (children, pregnant women, and the elderly).

Private Healthcare in Bolivia

Private facilities offer a higher level of care and can handle most medical problems. Services are much more expensive than at public facilities. Affluent citizens and expats usually opt for private medical facilities, which are mostly found in major cities.

Insurance Options in Bolivia

There are three insurance options available in Bolivia:

• Public sector insurance: covers the majority of the cost of care and the full cost for some conditions at public hospitals for at-risk groups.
• Social insurance: mandatory for foreigners actively working in Bolivia, with contributions from both employers and employees. This covers the cost of medical care in some facilities in the country.
• Private insurance: covers the cost of treatment in non-government hospitals. There are two types of private insurance:

• Local Health Insurance Plans: cover the cost of treatment only in Bolivia.
• International Health Insurance Plans: cover the cost of treatment in any country.

Recommendations for Expats

Expats are advised to purchase international health insurance, which covers medical costs and air evacuation in case of an emergency. It is also recommended to carry any prescription medication and essential medical equipment while in Bolivia.

The weather and climate in Bolivia

The Altiplano region, including La Paz and Lake Titicaca, is known for its high altitude and semi-arid climate. The average temperature during the summer is 72°F (22°C), while it drops to 59°F (15°C) in the winter. The region experiences cool temperatures and strong winds throughout the year.

In contrast, the central highland valleys, encompassing cities like Cochabamba, Sucre, Tarija, and Potosi, offer a more temperate climate. Daytime temperatures range from 62°F to 80°F (17°C to 27°C), with cooler nights. This region enjoys a Mediterranean-like climate year-round.

The Yungas Valley and the eastern slopes of the Andean mountain range boast a tropical or subtropical climate. This region is warm, humid, and wet throughout the year, with an annual rainfall of up to 155 cm. The rainy season, from November to March, brings the heaviest rainfall.

The eastern lowlands, covering half of Bolivia, including Santa Cruz, Trinidad, Beni, and Pando, exhibit a wet and tropical climate. Daytime temperatures often exceed 86°F (30°C) for most of the year. This region experiences heavy rainfall and high humidity.

The weather in Bolivia can be unpredictable, with sudden temperature drops and varying levels of humidity. It's essential to be prepared for different weather conditions and dress in layers, especially when visiting regions with significant altitude differences, such as La Paz.

The best time to visit Bolivia depends on your preferred destinations and activities. The high tourist season is typically from June to September due to the dry weather and festival season. However, the ideal month to visit depends on the specific regions and experiences you want to explore.

The culture and community in Bolivia

Bolivia is a country in South America, with a rich and diverse culture influenced by its history, people, and geography. The cultural development of the country can be broadly divided into three distinct periods: pre-Columbian, colonial, and republican. Here is an overview of the culture and community in Bolivia:

Language and Religion

Bolivia is home to a variety of languages and religious beliefs. Spanish is the national and official language, widely spoken in urban centres. In rural highlands, indigenous languages such as Quechua and Aymara are dominant, while in the southeast, Guaraní is spoken. The country also has a strong Catholic influence, with many Bolivians being formally Catholic. However, religious practices often blend Catholic rituals with pre-Hispanic Andean beliefs and rituals, creating a unique form of "popular religion".

Traditions and Festivals

Bolivian culture is filled with vibrant traditions and festivals that showcase the country's diverse cultural heritage. The most important folk festival is held in Oruro during the Carnival holidays, where Indian musical and dance groups compete, dazzling spectators with their colourful costumes and decorations. Santa Cruz also comes alive during Carnival, with tens of thousands of residents and visitors celebrating through dance, music, and feasting. Other notable religious festivals include the Great Power (Gran Poder) festival in La Paz and the celebration of the Virgin of Urkupina in Cochabamba. These festivals are not only cultural events but also serve as catalysts for collective memories and expressions of national identity.

Arts and Music

The combination of Indian and European cultural influences has fostered a thriving artistic community in Bolivia. Bolivian artists have gained recognition in various fields, including painting, sculpture, classical and traditional music, and folk dancing. The country's regional folk music is particularly distinctive and varied, with influences from both native and European cultures. Caporales, a popular Bolivian dance, has spread beyond the Highlands, where it originated, and is now enjoyed throughout the country and in Bolivian communities worldwide.

Food and Cuisine

Bolivian cuisine is a delightful fusion of Spanish, native Bolivian, and immigrant influences. The three traditional staples of Bolivian cuisine are maize, potatoes, and beans, combined with European staples like rice, wheat, and meat. The typical diet in Bolivia is abundant in carbohydrates and includes a variety of tubers, grains, legumes, and meat. Meals are often served with hot pepper sauces, and beverages like maize beer (chicha) are traditionally enjoyed in the highlands. Each region in Bolivia has its unique culinary specialties, reflecting the country's diverse cultural and geographical landscape.

Sports and Recreation

Football (soccer) is by far the most popular sport in Bolivia, with passionate fans across the country. However, other sports and recreational activities are also enjoyed, including golf, basketball, volleyball, and bicycle and automobile racing.

Social Life and Community

Daily life in Bolivia varies depending on social class, economic status, and place of residence. While Indian traditions persist, they are more prominent in rural and working-class areas. Members of the middle and upper classes tend to embrace more modern or Western cultural influences in their choices of clothing, entertainment, and lifestyle. Social gatherings and nightlife vary across the country, with residents of the tropical lowlands staying out later than those in the highlands, where restaurants and clubs close earlier due to cooler evening temperatures.

The visa requirements for Bolivia

Group One Countries

Citizens of the following countries do not need a visa to enter Bolivia for visits of up to 30 days, which can be extended to 90 days:

• European Union member states
• USA
• Australia
• Russia (can stay for 90 days within any 180-day period)

Citizens of these countries can enter Bolivia with their ID card and a valid passport with a minimum validity of six months.

Group Two Countries

Citizens of the following countries need to apply for a visa before travelling to Bolivia, either at a Bolivian embassy or consulate, or on arrival for a fee:

• Central African Republic
• Bosnia and Herzegovina
• Democratic People's Republic of Korea
• Saint Kitts and Nevis
• Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
• Sao Tome and Principe
• United Arab Emirates

The visa application process for Group Two countries is as follows:

• Find the nearest Bolivian embassy or consulate and contact them to learn about their application requirements, appointment systems, and submission methods.
• Complete the Bolivia visa application form (Sworn Statement for Visa Application), which can be accessed online, and attach electronic copies of the required documents.
• Print out and sign the confirmation page.
• Collect the required documents for a Bolivian visa application, including:

• A passport-size picture (3cm x 3cm)
• Proof of accommodation in Bolivia (hotel reservation or invitation letter from a host)
• A copy of your flight ticket or travel itinerary
• Proof of financial resources (bank or credit card statements)
• Certificate of Yellow Fever vaccine

• Pay the Bolivia visa fee, if applicable. In some cases, there is no fee if you are applying before the trip.
• Submit the documents at the embassy or consulate during opening hours or by mail, if permitted.
• Wait 10-15 working days for the visa to be processed.
• Receive your visa. If you applied in person, you may need to collect your visa from the embassy or consulate.

Bolivia visas can also be obtained on arrival at Cochabamba, La Paz, and Santa Cruz airports, but the application process may not be consistent. Travellers choosing this option must have all the required documents and necessary cash (in US dollars) to pay the visa fee, with bills in good condition.

Group Three Countries

Citizens of Group Three countries must apply for a Bolivian visa at an embassy or consulate abroad, and the process will be longer as authorisation must be requested from the National Migration Service in Bolivia:

• Democratic Republic of the Congo
• Democratic People's Republic of Korea

The visa application process for Group Three countries is similar to that of Group Two, with the addition of mailing the application to the National Migration Service in Bolivia and a longer waiting period of three to five weeks, or up to three months.

Additional Requirements and Considerations

Regardless of the visa group, all travellers to Bolivia must ensure their passports have at least six months of validity remaining beyond the date of entry. Visitors under 18 travelling without their parents will need written parental consent authorised by the local Bolivian embassy or consulate.

Travellers may also be asked to prove sufficient funds to support themselves during their stay in Bolivia, and a credit or debit card statement will usually suffice.

Although not mandatory, it is recommended that travellers carry their passports and visas at all times while in Bolivia, especially when close to land borders. Petty theft is common, and losing one's passport can lead to hassle and bureaucracy. Carrying photocopies of these documents is a safer alternative.

Health restrictions may also apply, particularly for travellers arriving from countries with endemic yellow fever. A yellow fever vaccination certificate may be required on arrival or when travelling to areas of Bolivia below 2500m in altitude, such as the Amazon Basin.

Frequently asked questions