We Thought We Had It All - But the Little Town of Atenas Changed Everything

How Vera Fouriau Left Belgium and Found Her Dream Business in Costa Rica

It was a fresh Atenas morning when I sat down with Vera Fouriau, then-owner of the charming Vista Atenas Bed & Breakfast, to talk about her remarkable journey from Belgium to becoming a successful business owner in Costa Rica. Over a cup of organic Costa Rican coffee, she shared how what began as curiosity soon became a life-changing chapter.

A Coincidence That Wasn’t

Vera first discovered Costa Rica after attending a conference in Brussels. Captivated by stories of the country’s natural beauty and easygoing lifestyle, she traveled alone to Atenas for a month. What struck her most was the warmth of the people, the abundance of nature, and the slower, more intentional pace of life.

“The universe was supporting me,” she recalled. “All the pieces of the puzzle just fell into place.”

From Comfort Zone to Calling

Back in Belgium, Vera lived what most would call a perfect life — a beautiful home, a loving family, and a sense of security. Yet, her time in Costa Rica revealed something deeper was missing. When she discovered a small hotel for sale in Atenas, she convinced her husband, Jean, to join her for a visit. Within a week, they knew: this was their future.

They bought the property and began transforming it into Vista Atenas Bed & Breakfast, which soon became one of Atenas’ most beloved boutique stays.

Lessons in Business and Life

Running a business in Costa Rica wasn’t without challenges. The culture was more relaxed, schedules flexible, and patience essential.

“It’s not difficult — it’s different,” Vera often said with a knowing smile.

Her advice for aspiring expats or entrepreneurs remains as true today as ever:

Be realistic and adaptable.
Have financial reserves.
Focus on enthusiasm and positivity.
Surround yourself with locals and learn from them.

Her success was built on mutual respect — creating harmony with her staff, embracing Costa Rican culture, and offering guests an authentic pura vida experience.

A Legacy That Lives On

For many years, Vista Atenas B&B welcomed guests from around the world, offering six guest rooms, two cabins, a casita, and a pool overlooking sweeping valley views. Guests unplugged — no televisions, just birdsong, good coffee, and the serenity of tropical gardens.

Vera and Jean infused the business with warmth and heart, creating a space where travelers felt like family.

Today, Vera has retired and returned to Europe, closing this extraordinary chapter of her life. Yet the lessons she learned — about courage, simplicity, and reinvention — continue to inspire everyone who dreams of starting over in Costa Rica.

What Vera Wants You to Know

When asked if she ever had regrets, she once said:

“Of course not! My life in Belgium was too easy. I left my comfort zone, and it saved me. I am more alive now than ever.”

Her story reminds us that life’s richest rewards often come when we dare to trade comfort for curiosity.

At PLD Atenas Realty

We’ve helped countless clients — from retirees to entrepreneurs — write their own Costa Rican stories. Whether your dream is to run a boutique inn, own a luxury villa, or simply live a slower, more meaningful life, Atenas remains one of the most inspiring places to begin again.

Explore our luxury property listings to find your dream home in the world’s best climate and start living the lifestyle you’ve worked so hard to achieve.