Club Heasa - Building a Gay Men’s Oasis in Costa Rica with Colin BrownleeIn this episode of the 'Where Do Gays Retire' podcast, host Mark Goldstein interviews Colin Brownlee, who has established Club Heasa, a men-only vacation and short-term rental community in Costa Rica. Colin shares his journey from a marketing career in Vancouver to building a successful hotel business in Costa Rica, and eventually founding Club Heasa to create a safe and comfortable space for mature gay men. They discuss the specifics of Club Heasa, including its amenities, location, pricing, and the compelling reasons for choosing to make it a gay men-only community. Colin also offers insights into the Costa Rican climate, healthcare, local attractions, and the significance of creating physical spaces for the LGBTQ+ community. The episode sheds light on the benefits of retiring in Costa Rica and offers practical advice for potential residents.00:00 Introduction to the Podcast00:50 Meet Colin Brownlee: From Vancouver to Costa Rica01:56 The Birth of Club Heasa02:25 Welcome Colin to the Podcast02:39 Exploring Club Heasa: Concept and Vision03:03 The Story Behind the Name 'Club Heasa'09:40 Creating a Gay Men Only Community09:53 Challenges and Decisions in Building Club Heasa15:05 The Importance of Physical Community18:05 Demographics and Age Considerations20:12 Short-Term Vacation Rentals at Club Heasa25:33 Climate and Location Benefits31:32 Pricing and Amenities at Club Heasa33:17 Common Areas and Social Spaces37:11 Local Attractions and Excursions39:24 Transportation and Accessibility40:00 Car Rentals and Cost Savings40:11 Rules and Regulations at the Hotel42:49 Laundry and Housekeeping Services43:31 Guest Demographics and Preferences46:24 LGBTQ Scene and Social Life50:33 Healthcare and Medical Facilities53:28 Travel Insurance and Citizenship55:10 Security and Online Shopping57:03 Natural Risks and Earthquakes59:35 Visa Limits and Food Scene01:03:45 Final Thoughts and FarewellTakeaways: This episode highlights the importance of finding a safe and affordable retirement place for the LGBTQ community, as discussed by Mark Goldstein. Colin Brownlee's journey from marketing in Canada to creating Club Heasa in Costa Rica is both inspiring and insightful. Listeners will gain insight into the cost of staying at Club Heasa and the experiences that await them there. Colin emphasizes the significance of building a community for gay men in Costa Rica, especially as traditional gay neighborhoods fade away. The podcast dives into the unique amenities and environment of Club Heasa, including its clothing-optional policy and planned excursions. Listeners can learn about the healthcare accessibility in Costa Rica, making it a viable option for retirees. Links referenced in this episode:wheredogaysretire.comclubheasa.comlgbtqseniors.combooking.comexpedia.comCompanies mentioned in this episode: Club Heasa Hotel Banana Azul Ajijic Wilton Manors Fort Lauderdale Palm Springs Steve Cross Rick's Bar Mentioned in this episode:Introducing LGBTQSeniors.com – A Free Community for Connection & PrideMark

Ask this episode

“What did the council decide on item 42?” — answered with the speaker and the moment.

Transcript

Related