By Rosalie Olds — Atenas seems to be a gathering place for retirees from the United States to live. And no wonder: it is beautiful, the shops and restaurants cater to English speakers, the views are spectacular, and the weather is said to be the best in Costa Rica.
On Tuesday, 6 October 2026, U.S. citizens gathered to ensure their votes are counted in the upcoming U.S. mid-term elections on November 3, 2026.
At the Baruch Restaurant, 67 people signed in. Many people received assistance with printing, faxing, requesting, and mailing their ballots.
Representatives from the U.S. Embassy in Costa Rica also held a Town Hall meeting where they assisted people in renewing their passports. There was even music.
A few people attended who had never voted from abroad. They needed help to do it. A volunteer told about one couple who were especially eager and enthusiastic to vote for the first time from outside the U.S. The volunteer added,”I’m pretty sure they weren’t the only ones!”
Several people were anxious about mailing their ballots correctly. Volunteers worked patiently with them to make sure that each step was followed correctly.
Lots of people needed to request ballots. The volunteers helped them to complete the voter registration and absentee ballot request form, known by its initials as the FPCA. It is a federal application form which all states must accept. Others needed to complete the Federal Write-In Absentee Ballot (FWAB) to meet voting deadlines.
From the number of smiles, thanks, and new friendships, in addition to actually exercising their right to vote, it was clear that the event was a success!
