O Pinions!

GDP is not a good indication of wealth.

In response to Naomi's posting that Costa Rica is 82nd in the world in GDP:

"What is more important though is food, clothing, shelter. Does everyone have the minimum. Are they secure and happy with what they have. In Costa Rica rent and housing isn't too bad. Food at the feria and local markets is cheap. Clothing isn't so cheap. Are people happy? I wonder... Since there doesn't seem to be much concern about the future and a focus on today is the way of living (Pura Vida) it seems so. But there is also extreme poverty that tourists may never see. You've seen it though. Same here in the USA. My rent is cheap but Missoula is gentrifying and tearing down humble places to construct mid-price condos the poor will never be able to afford. Food is expensive. Second hand clothing is plentiful and cheap. Are people happy? Those living on the edge or homeless (we have many in and out of shelters) should be asked. Young people with poor paying jobs should be asked. Seniors who are land-rich but income poor should be asked. Those with West Coast money sources are the ones who are increasingly running the show."