I wade into your blogs with a certain depth of trepidation on a daily basis as we have thought and discussed a life in Costa Rica so frequently.
Our journey there less than a year ago took us through the prison-life you describe, but alas we were sheltered from so much of that gloom as we spent more time on the Pacific coast and less time in the central area and San Jose.
Your honesty is both unnerving, but welcomed, for it brings the true perspective of such a life-changing experience.
Much of what you say is bang on, just better put than a coffee conversation.
Stay honest.
Go West. The bars and walls are less prevalent, and like here in Canada, the ticos tend to ratchet down the tension a bit the closer you get to the Pacific.
Our daughter studied Spanish in Samara and lived with a family there and really connected on a different level.

Peace be with you!

David (Calgarians looking to migrate to Costa Rica)

Thanks for the stories.

Liz