Okay, here are my top 10 pet peeves related to items that are often posted on these Expat discussion sites:
1. Responses that say "I agree" or "I disagree"... but fail to mention the name of the person the comment relates to. (Note: Often this response comes after an intervening post, and it is not clear who's previous post is being referred to.)
2. Posts that ask "Where can I find ..." but that do not say where the originator is located. I may respond with a place that is far from where you live. (Or similarly, a post that says "I am selling ..." but does not say where the originator is located.)
3. Posts that advertise a new store or restaurant that is opening but that do not provide a sufficient description of where the store or restaurant is located. (This applies mostly to local Facebook sites.) If you want customers to come, make sure they know where to go!
4. Posts that ask "Where is the best place to live in CR?" but that do not provide any information about the originator's likes and dislikes, needs, and expectations for where they would live. (Everyone's opinion of "the best place to live" varies.)
5. Questions from newbies such as "What are the residency requirements in CR?" Please, first do a Google search on the subject and read what you can find. Then ask specific questions about things that are not clear.
6. Posts that ask a question that has been asked a few times within the past few weeks. Please try the "Search the Costa Rica forum" feature on the main page for keywords before posting a new question if you are new to the group.
7. Responses that provide outdated misinformation to important questions. We all make some mistakes since CR laws often change, but quoting a requirement that changed several years ago will not be very helpful. Try to keep up with changes in the laws if you want to help others with responses.
8. Posts and responses that do not provide a balanced view of living in CR - living in CR is neither "living in heaven" nor "living in hell". CR can be a great place to live, but don't be afraid to mention some things that can make life more difficult. And don't just post negative opinions either.
9. Posts about topics that are not related to CR. Subjects like US politics should be posted elsewhere, unless you make a direct connection to living in CR.
10. Responses to this post that say it is too critical of others! I've made some of the above mistakes too - I'm just trying to make things easier based on my own experiences!
I know that some people will be "peeved" at some of the items I listed above. Sorry. If you agree with this list, please click "Like". And please feel free to add more "pet peeves" - but don't be too harsh!