Flying and tourism go hand-in-hand, not just for travel, but also for sightseeing. Some of Nature’s wonders such as the Grand Canyon in the United States, Sugar Loaf in Brazil and Ayers Rock in Australia were meant to be appreciated from the air. In Costa Rica’s case, almost the entire country can be enjoyed from a bird’s eye view.

Domestic Flight Destinations

Flying around Costa Rica isn’t limited to the Juan Santamaria (SJO) and Daniel Oduber Quiros (LIR) international airports. A couple of dozen airfields dot the land, many of them located near tourist spots. Ground transportation by bus is still the dominant method for getting around, mostly because of the price and relative convenience, but domestic flights and chartered trips by air are becoming very popular. Our small country makes it ideal for flying, and the scenic opportunities make it very enticing for anyone to take to the skies for some spectacular sightseeing of our beaches, forests, jungles, rivers, and volcanoes in minutes. Our country is very enjoyable at the surface level, but our climate diversity, topography and sketchy highway infrastructure often makes ground transportation challenging.

The ideal choice of aircraft for a quick getaway to our airfields located off the beaten track is either passenger propeller airplanes or helicopters. Many of our aerodromes will not accommodate jet aircraft runway and air traffic control requirements, but propeller and rotor-driven aircraft are welcome just about anywhere.

Regional Airlines

Our two major domestic airlines for regional flights, Nature Air and Sansa Regional, offer a great number of flights to the most popular tourist destinations. In the high season (from mid-November to late April), both airlines offer daily flights to places like Liberia, Puerto Jimenez, Quepos – Manuel Antonio, and others. The flight frequency is reduced during the low season, from May to August, and the super-low season in September and October.

Nature Air operates out of the Tobias Bolanos airport in the San Jose suburbs near Pavas. The airline holds the distinction of having achieved carbon-neutrality before any other flight operator in the world, an expensive and socially-responsible endeavor that the company rightly uses as a marketing effort. Only a handful of airlines around the world can lay a certified claim to the feat of balancing their aircraft emissions, and two of them are in Costa Rica (Sansa is the other one, and they also operate carbon-neutral Aeroperlas Regional in Panama).

Nature Air concentrates on sightseeing, and to that extent its fleet includes Twin Otter Vistaliners, special aircraft that is meant for tourism and sightseeing. Most air travelers are used to the tiny porthole windows on large commercial jets obstructed by the wings; that is not the case with the Vistaliner windows that offer an almost panoramic view of our verdant landscape.

Sansa Regional operates out of Base 2 in SJO, and just like Nature Air, it is a carbon-neutral airline. Sansa’s air fleet includes the spiffy-new Cessna Grand Caravans; super-versatile and reliable turboprop planes that can be easily configured with landing gear appropriate for amphibious take-off and landing. Grand Caravans have been placed into the service with the military air forces of the Bahamas, Brazil, Chile, Mexico, and South Africa; in Iraq they may soon be fitted with Hellfire missiles. In Costa Rica, Sansa’s Grand Caravans have been fitted with comfortable leather seats and air conditioning.

Sansa takes great pride in its aircraft rotation program, as it will soon hold the distinction of having the youngest fleet of airplanes in the world. Sansa’s modern fleet ensures comfortable and speedy service within domestic destinations, and the airline’s participation in the LifeMiles program makes it inviting for travelers who fly Lufthansa, United Airlines and other major airlines.

Chartered Flights

For travelers who can’t be bothered by schedules and timetables, or who would prefer a more intimate flight experience, both Nature Air and Sansa offer chartered flights. The costs will vary greatly depending on the number of passengers and the destination, but they are very fair in comparison to their regular airfares. For example, Nature Air advertises a chartered flight to Tortuguero in our north Caribbean (a great spot for ecotourism) on a Twin Otter Vistaliner carrying 19 passengers for $1,575, plus a $300 aircraft fee. Divided among 19 travelers, that’s less than $100 per passenger – a great deal.

Flight charters offer a great deal of flexibility. For better aerial enjoyment and great photography, an early morning flight departing San Jose due south could easily fly over the Talamanca Mountain Range, turn east towards Limon and fly around the Turrialba volcano, dance over the Irazu, continue straight to the Barva volcano, loop around the Poas, and land back in San Jose in time for lunch. Our entire Caribbean coast could be explored by air in just a couple of hours, and flying over most of our major national parks -Braulio Carrillo, Corcovado, Manuel Antonio, and Tortuguero- could be a nice charter flight idea that a Tico pilot would love to accomplish in just one day.

Chartered flights are not limited to Costa Rica, either. Both Nature Air and Sansa fly to other locations in Central America and the islands of the Caribbean (extra charges may apply). Travelers should always carry their cedula or passport when boarding aircraft in Costa Rica and ensure that they have proper visa clearance if traveling beyond our borders. Perpetual tourists who have overstayed their visa should keep in mind that immigration enforcement at our airports is not as relaxed as our terrestrial checkpoint in Paso Canoas, and thus it may be a good idea to update visa status by taking ground transportation south before boarding an aircraft. Baggage restrictions may also apply.

Helicopter Tours

Helicopters truly came of age during the Vietnam War, when pilots logged hundreds of thousands of flight hours in missions that transcended combat. With the right conditions and pilots, helicopters can fly in and out of just about any situation, and to that degree they are very useful in Costa Rica. The reason why helicopters do not traverse our skies with greater frequency has a lot to do with noise pollution and the high cost of fuel; still, rotary-wing aircraft is a great choice for getting around our country.

Helicopter flights can go beyond the traditional tourist spots. Some of our most pristine and remote areas, like Isla Calero and Tortuguero National Park in the northern Caribbean tip of Costa Rica bordering Nicaragua, are only accessible by boat or helicopter. A few helicopter tour operators are based in the Tobias Bolanos airport, but with proper planning a helicopter could land at someone’s doorstep and whisk them away to within 50 meters inland from the beach, provided the conditions are right and the authorized landing spot is within private property.

For aerial filming and photography purposes, a helicopter flight provides better angles and stability. Helicopter travel is not restricted to airport operating hours, and they can be ready for vertical take-off within 10 minutes after the rotors are engaged. For someone who needs absolute privacy when traveling, helicopters are adequate since they can operate under the cover of darkness, but it is important to remember that international flights always require proper immigration clearance.

A few helicopter operators are based in the Tobias Bolanos airport, including Aerotec, Volar, Aerotour and Puro Vuelo. In a 2011 article in La Nacion, Don Carlos Marten of Aerotec explained that a helicopter flight can run between $800 and $3,000.

Flight Safety

For air passengers whose sole flying experience has been on Boeing and Airbus jets, taking a flight on a propeller plane or helicopter may make them a bit queasy at first. Our diversity in microclimates can quickly change atmospheric conditions that can be strongly felt in mid-flight. That should be the extent of discomfort in our domestic flights, as both Nature Air and Sansa Regional boast some of the best safety and maintenance records in the Americas.

For those doubting the superior flying skills of Tico pilots, consider the following: at the end of 2007, a Fuerza Publica pilot flew near the heights of Mount Chirripo to pick up an indigenous baby girl who was severely dehydrated. That pilot calmly landed the helicopter right on Paseo Colon across from the Children’s Hospital. In February of this year, a Cessna 152 prop trainer crash landed on the Virilla river (just upstream from the Platina Bridge), but the pilot and student survived with a few bruises. The pilot explained that he knew the entire time they were going to make it, but that he tried his best to avoid hitting power lines because he did not want to cause a power outage.

Environmental Impact

As discussed before, both Nature Air and Sansa are carbon-neutral airlines. Engine-powered flight may not be the greenest method of transportation, as both rotary and fixed-wing aircraft burn fossil fuels and emit a considerable amount of carbon dioxide and methane gases, but the carbon footprint left by driving around in a gas or diesel-powered vehicle with just one or two people on board would be greater.

An interesting byproduct of flying over Costa Rica comes in the form of environmental awareness. The dramatic sights of our deep green jungles, the mists of the cloud forest, the snaking rivers, the brown-sugary sands, and the sapphire blue of our oceans are enough to turn someone’s mindset in the direction of conservation. That may be the greatest hidden effect of flying over our country.

And so it begins; Nissan is the latest victim of the new trend where everything with an ‘i’ stands for intelligently designed and uber cool. But their Nissan X-Trail ‘i’ line is quite confusing and not so smart. Don’t get me wrong, I’ve always considered the Nissan X-Trail as a great car, I had one and loved the comfort, the ride and the amenities all around, but some things have me confused at the moment.

The Nissan X-Trail began its life as Nissan’s answer to the growing market of slightly upscale SUVs, such as the Rav-4 and the Vitara. The first generation was pretty spot on and made itself a reputation as a great option so when, in 2008, Nissan promised a new X-Trail, I was pretty excited.

Lo and behold, I’m confused and slightly disappointed. Let’s put out the facts and see if we can up with the answer to this most interesting conundrum.

Technical Data:

Right now, there are two X-Trail lines available in Costa Rica, the Classic and the X-Trail ‘i’ and here’s how they fare out.

The X-Trail ‘i’ is the newest one. It came to the market in 2008 with a set of options expected for anyone who had the prior version. It comes with power windows, mirrors, seats, cooled/heated cup holders and so many storage drawers you definitely will lose something inside of it. There are two possible engines, the 2.0L or the 2.5L (the latter my choice if I were to choose petrol). It also comes with the following options: descent control, uphill start control, smart brake distribution and a limited slip differential. Sounds pretty good, doesn’t it? But what if you don’t like petrol and prefer diesel?

Ah! It’s not that simple. You see, the X-Trail Classic has all the amenities inside, such as power seats, cooled/heated cup holders, yadayadayada, and it comes with a diesel engine but doesn’t have the super-smart, super-safe and neat All Mode 4×4 ‘i’, it only comes with the basic All Mode 4×4. Hence, you don’t get the brake distribution, the assist when you up or downhill and the differential isn’t really something special.

So that means, if you like diesel, you can’t be as safe as if you liked petrol. Hum, that’s weird.

On the other little details, you get the same on both: the sound system is great, road noise is just tolerable and the handling is car-like, responsive, just on the money for an SUV.

Is it cheap to run?

Depends on which model you get. The 2.5 is logically very thirsty but has great power. I wouldn’t recommend the 2.0 petrol; it’s just vastly underpowered and renders it needy of a heavier foot, hence a bigger hole on your wallet. This whole power to weight ratio is so crucial, not a lot of people analyze it. Petrol engines usually average about 8 km/L in the city and 12 km/L highway. Expect about 450 km per tank in the city.

Spares are cheaper for the petrol version and that has to be considered in the long run.

The 2.2 turbodiesel engine is the best, providing over 10 km/L in the city and moves up to 14 km/L in highway. The turbo kicks in the low-rev range and keeps going for a good chunk of torque, making hill climbs a breeze and also helping the range but the spares are quite expensive if compared to its confused sibling. Expect about 600 km per tank in the city.

Can it climb walls?

Don’t believe the brochures: it’s not that good off-road. The 4×4 system is made to assist the driver in gravel, snow and mud but that doesn’t mean it’s going to cross the Darien’s Gap with full A/C and a chilly Pepsi in the cupholder.

Where to?

Somewhere in Costa Rica where the off-roading isn’t too challenging, such as the mountains of Heredia.

Where can I get one?

Dealership’s the choice. If choosing a used version, be very careful with used diesel engines (ironically the best options), ask for full service details and check the usual aspects with a mechanic you trust: you’ll be thankful later. Used X-Trails aren’t hard to find but prime condition models are much tougher to spot.

Final thoughts:

The X-Trail is a great car. It handles great, is comfortable even for a man my size and has every tidbit I look for and I wouldn’t have one. I really liked the diesel version and would love a X-Trail ‘i’ with the 2.2L CRD engine mated with a six-speed manual. But it can’t happen, unless I buy it in Europe and bring it here and that’s not practical. Can anyone say Hyundai Tucson?

Author’s Note: A lot of the information on this article comes from the Environmental section of the digital news daily El Pais and the National University.

The alleged naming of Costa Rica by Christopher Columbus during one of his final voyages of discovery is often the subject of tongue-in-cheek jests by Ticos who know better. “He had no idea”, goes the saying, particularly when making reference to the amazing blessings that Nature keeps bestowing upon the country. Recent studies into the Thermal Convection Dome and the rich biomass it creates underscore the importance of the Costa Rica Dome to life in the ocean.

The Aqua satellite image from the National Aeronautics and Space Administration that accompanies this article was reviewed by scientists at the National University in Heredia in mid-February, 2012. The dark red aspect of the image shown off our north Pacific coast is not red tide; it rather represents the highest concentration of chlorophyll in the world, up to 60 milligrams per cubic centimeter of sea water. This means that a lot of phytoplankton -unicellular algae that eventually photosynthesizes into plankton- is available for the pleasure of a number of migratory marine species, including crabs, dolphins, marlin, tuna, turtles, whales and more. These species swim and crawl across thousands of kilometers to feast and reproduce off our coast.

The Costa Rica Dome

Marine species that feast off our Pacific coasts can thank the phenomenon created by the Costa Rica Dome for the hundreds of thousands of square kilometers of nourishment available to them. The Alpha of the Dome is located in the depths of the Cocos underwater tectonic valley, which is not only the cause of many earthquakes, but it’s also responsible for a subaquatic cyclonic current that moves in harmonious sync with the air current above sea level. The axis of rotation of the Costa Rica Dome is located way off to the west of the Isla del Coco. The balmy weather and convective energy produced by the dome guarantees a constant process of photosynthesis that is rich in phytoplankton.

In this other satellite image showcased at the Visible Earth gallery of NASA, the inter-tropical convergence zone can be appreciated in the midst of the dome and close to our shores. The deep green areas are extremely rich in phytoplankton, and these are the precise areas where marine biologists have observed deep concentrations of marine life, from fish to algae and from crustaceans to mammals. That image was published in 2001, and taking a look at the image showing the chlorophyll concentration levels, it’s easy to see that the Costa Rica Dome is still thriving.

Benefits of the Costa Rica Dome

The atmospheric and oceanic benefits of the Thermal Convection Dome are evident to the marine species that live and migrate just off our shores. Whales, dolphins, turtles and other migratory species will want to keep coming back to feed and procreate, thus ensuring that the world’s oceans teem with life; which in the end attracts even more wildlife (think about sea birds). For Ticos, it’s a source of deep pride and one more thing to add to their bragging rights of living in a country that is truly blessed by nature. In an article appearing in El Pais, author Guillermo Quiros Alvarez points out that while the Costa Rica Dome is but one of her wonders, not enough awareness is being promoted at the school level. Teachers and Ministry of Education officials reading this, please take note.

For the fishing communities of the Pacific, the Dome -when not affected by atmospheric events by El Nino and La Nina- is a rich source of sustenance. Under international maritime law, the government can only protect a few square kilometers of the ocean in a straight line from the coast, and to this extent there isn’t much danger of overfishing, as long as the phytoplankton levels remain close to our coast.

Whale Watching and Ecotourism

In terms of ecotourism, the benefits are tremendous. It is estimated that whale-watching brings in more than $20 million a year to at least 10 fishing communities, according to marine conservation group MarViva. As long as sustainable and responsible fishing is practiced in the Dome areas, whales will keep coming back. The conservation policies that were enacted around the country in the 1970s are paying off in the 21^st century, as it has become easier to spot the gentle giants off our Pacific shores (not far from the Envision Festival).

One organization that wishes to call greater attention to the Costa Rica Dome is the Environmental Protection of the Islands Corridor (EPIC). This initiative is spearheaded by Eduardo Acosta, a former residential developer who is the author of a book about a sea turtle that is besieged by threats to the Costa Rica Dome. The planned EPIC Park will be a nature-themed attraction that will focus on educating visitors about the Dome. The heroine of Eduardo’s book is named Hope, and she also has the potential to educate young students about the Dome.

Whale lovers should also take note that the Costa Rica Coalition for Whales will be holding a special screening of Big Miracle, a new film starring Drew Barrymore about whale conservation efforts in Alaska.  The film will be screened at the Terramall theaters at 7:30pm on February 23. Costa Rica will be present at the future International Whaling Commission summit, and Ticos are expected to take a strong stance against commercial whaling around the world, unless it is practiced by native tribes.

Methane Clathrate in the Dome

The ocean floor beneath the Dome is rich in methane chlathrate, a byproduct of the life and death process of the rich biomass closer to the surface. For millions of years, the sediments of the ocean floor off our Pacific coasts have been accumulating millions of metric tons of methane clathrate, also known as fire ice, a compound that is believed to be far more powerful that natural gas in terms of energy production. Oceanographic research vessels bearing flags of industrialized countries have been sailing the oceans past our international maritime demarcation line, taking samples from the depths. The result of the research thus far? Costa Rica is ripe for exploration and prospecting of fire ice, something that could make Ticos richer than the oil-producing nations of the Middle East.

Given Costa Rica’s track record of resisting mineral exploration; to wit: the Crucitas affair and the reluctance of prospecting for rare earth, it is unlikely that we will see initiatives for the exploitation of the Costa Rica Dome. If anything, it is incumbent upon Ticos to protect the Dome and the life it produces.

The Global Legal Skills Conference is now on its seventh iteration, and it is coming to Costa Rica in March. From the 12^th to the 14^th, legal professionals from different parts of the world will converge upon the stately Gran Hotel Costa Rica across from the National Theater to participate in a series of meetings related to the globalization of their profession. The conference has traditionally been held in the United States, but in recent years organizers have decided to move it overseas for greater coverage and impact. This year will be the first time Costa Rica receives the honor of playing host, and the conference has already gotten its tagline: “The Pura Vida Conference”.

On the first day of the conference, three lectures will be held. Three special breaks for networking will be interspersed throughout the day. On Tuesday, March 13^th, attendees will board buses bound to the San Pedro campus of the University of Costa Rica in the afternoon to sit through a series of workshops, many of them focused on using Spanish in the legal profession. The last day of the conference will feature some morning meetings followed by a luncheon and the opportunity to explore the country during the afternoon and evening. Those who arrive to the conference from overseas will get special rates at the Gran Hotel, the downtown Holiday Inn and the Hotel Presidente.

A major focus of past Global Legal Skills Conferences has been on education, particularly when it comes to the use of language. English is shaping up to be the de facto language for international legal proceedings, and thus it is important to understand how situational and interactive authenticity unfolds among anglophones. Another critical issue is the slow adoption of common law jurisprudence in countries like Costa Rica, where civil law is practiced and the outcome of a case is strictly based upon statutory standards rather than prior decisions.

The powerful Tico law firm Arias and Munoz is sponsoring the conference, as well as the John Marshall School of Law in Chicago, the University of Costa Rica, and the Colegio de Abogados. The cost of registration is $185 for all attendees, plus $45 for the closing luncheon. Registration can be accomplished online.

Step 1: You need to backup the data on your device to another computer or network backup server. This should be done on regular basis. A backup will give you a point of recovery should you not be able to retrieve your device.

Step 2: Every GSM/UTMS capable phone, or device, has a unique IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity) number. Every manufacturer of a GSM device must report the IMEI numbers of imported devices to SUTEL. You can verify the IMEI number at SUTEL’s certification site. Record the IMEI number of your GSM/UTMS phones or tablets, and keep them in a safe place. You must report a lost or stolen phone to the police (in Costa Rica call 117), and give them the IMEI number as the serial number. With the police report, you can then contact your SIM carrier, and possibly get back your original phone number. It is a drastic step, but the SIM carrier can use the IMEI number to lock the device. There is no unlock code.

Step 3: When you power on your GSM device, it asks for a PIN number. This PIN number is the password for the SIM card. All someone has to do, is change the SIM card to access your phone. Some Nokia phones provide an option that force you to enter the Lock Code (see below), when the SIM card changes.

Step 4: You can set a Lock Code, or Lock Passcode, for you mobile device. For the smartphones and tablets, you enable the Lock Passcode under the security settings. When you turn on the power to a mobile device you are asked for the SIM Pin code, and then the Lock Passcode. Changing the SIM card does not alter the Lock Passcode. Some mobile devices allow you to set an autolock period. If the mobile device is inactive for this period, you will be prompted for the Lock Passcode. It is like a screensaver lock. This is not the same as a keypad lock, which is only exists to prevent butt calling (pocket dialing).

Step 5: Let’s say you configured your device so that it autolocks after a specified period of time, during that period someone can still run apps that reveal your private data. To prevent this from happening, you can password protect selected applications. Android apps that provide application locking include: Smart App Protector, App Lock – App Protector, or App Protector Pro [App Lock]. For Nokia phones, you can use AppsLock.

Step 6: Lock Passcodes are like door looks, they stop some intruders, but not the serious intruder. Even having a separate passwords app is not an absolute guarantee of security. The one super big hole in phone security is the microSD card. Someone only needs to remove the microSD card, and insert it into their computer. They can now read the data on your microSD card, which probably includes backups of data from the phones internal storage. The solution to this problem is to encrypt the data on the microSD card, and on the internal storage. Nokia phones usually have an option to encrypt the phone memory and/or the microSD card. On the other hand, Android devices do not offer encryption as a standard feature. While there is no app that encrypts the entire contents of the internal storage or micorSD card, there are apps that encrypt directories or files. These apps include Droid Crypt, or Encryption Manager.

Yes, it takes effort to secure your mobile device, and it does make it a bit more inconvenient to use. The real question is what is the cost of someone getting access to your data? What is the cost of identity fraud? What is the cost of someone getting access to your bank account? What is the cost of someone getting access to your credit card information? Weigh these costs against a little inconvenience, and remember that statistically there is a one in three chance that you will lose your mobile device.

The first International Design Festival was an astounding success for everyone involved. Renowned artists such as Max-o-Matic, Paula Scher and Joshua Davis (one of the first adopters of Adobe Flash and Shockwave to create striking artwork) not only exhibited at the festival, but also participated in lively workshops with attendees who were passionate about modern design. More than 1500 people visited the first festival, including 300 who came from abroad. The second iteration of the International Design Festival promises to attract even more attendants and artists.

Guests and Exhibitors

Some of the designers invited this year include Leanne Marshall, a young American fashion designer who is well-known for her ultra-feminine dresses that have been worn by supermodel Heidi Klum and pop singer and reality television maven Paula Abdul. From Egypt by way of Canada, industrial designer Karim Rashid will bring his particular brand of object visualization and design. Mr. Rashid’s has been admitted to the permanent collections of the Museums of Modern Art in New York and San Francisco. Master Brazilian architect Ruy Ohtake, responsible for the beautiful half-moon shaped Hotel Unique in Sao Paulo and the Brazilian embassy in Tokyo will also exhibit and participate in design workshops.

Local architect Benjamin Garcia Saxe is sure to be one of the major attractions at the festival. He is responsible for some of the most interesting residential structures in Costa Rica: the Containers of Hope project. This brilliant idea of turning a couple of old metal shipping containers and recycled materials into a stylish house for Gabriela Calvo and Marco Peralta. The home, which is located just outside San Jose, was built at the cost of $40,000 and features some very smart design features. The layout of the home is strategic in the sense that it allows year-round natural lighting and ventilation, thereby minimizing the use of electricity. There are quite a few container home projects around, but Mr. Garcia’s design stands out.

The Purpose of the Festival

Visual design in Latin America has been attracting the attention of the world for decades. Brazilian architects are responsible for a lot of the public and private structures in Miami. Carlos Martinez Gensler, who is also a presenter at this year’s festival, has been recognized by his peers as one of the most influential modern architects and designers in Chicago. Costa Rica wants to position herself as a hub for design, to invite visual artists to collaborate in a space where they can exercise creativity and innovation. The first edition of the International Design Festival was very well-received by Latin American visual artists who are now very interested in what Costa Rica is doing in terms of design.

The festival also aims to provide balance, and to that extent it has also invited Ji Lee, a South Korean designer who is better known for work that keeps people coming back to Google and Facebook. If you have ever noticed yourself repeatedly drawn to those two web properties, you can thank (or blame, if you will) Ji Lee, as he is responsible for a lot of the visual aesthetics on those two sites. The organizers of the festival believe that visual design on the World Wide Web has become as important as in public places and private interiors.

Tickets to the festival are on sale now at the festival’s home on the web, on its Facebook page, or at any Ruta Urbana stores in San Pedro, Paseo de las Flores in Heredia, or at Multiplaza in Escazu.

In the past, this conference has been held at the Ramada Plaza Herradura Hotel in San Jose, the Flamingo Hotel in Las Vegas, the Trump Plaza in Atlantic City, and the Keahou Beach Resort in Hawaii. The proceedings of the conference are published in a variety of business and academic journals. Presenters can submit papers for peer review in English or Spanish. The call for papers is now, and the deadline for submission is March 15. For visitors who wish to stay at the same hotel as the conference, the deadline for reservations is April 19. There will also be a web simulcast for those who cannot attend in person.

In the past, the Global Business Conference has touched upon important subjects such as the socioeconomic progress that can be realized from tourism, as well as the monetary figures derived from the global growth of international visits. Another notable topic at past conferences included a close look at the failure of American investment banking firm Bear Stearns and how its failure due to short-term debt prevented the fair calculation of other high-quality assets in its portfolio. An even more interesting paper presented in the past looked at how Latin American investment banking firms are thriving despite keeping less cash on reserves and being exposed to higher margins on their debt holding when compared to their counterparts on Wall Street. Cash management in Latin America involves a different mindset of operating without much liquidity and somehow staying afloat in periods of high economic turmoil.

Papers are being accepted now. Interested presenters should read the details of the call for papers at the IBFR website, and non-presenting attendees can register from the same web page. The IBFR can be also be contacted via their office in Hawaii: (808) 959-9120. This is a great opportunity to network and learn important factors that affect the global economy.

Click here to download a comprehensive PDF.

Contact Information

The Institute for Business and Finance Research
P.O. BOX 4908
HILO, HI 96720
U.S.A.
PH: 808-959-9120
FAX: 800-928-6595

General Information: admin@theibfr.com
Conference Submissions: submissions@theibfr.com
Journal Submissions: editor@theibfr.com
Editors: editor@theibfr.com

With unpaved roads, surfboards, yoga mats and a relaxed warm air seeping into every corner, Nosara is not a place one would consider as a prime literary destination, but one man thinks differently. Clive Matson is on the fourth year on his literary workshop in Nosara and I sat down with the accomplished writer to have a little chat about his ongoing project; it includes getting to know the beautiful nature of Nosara, interacting with great people and a quite successful Open Literary Night, which I was a part of.

His stride is gently paced and relaxed as he walks up to the table; we are under the shade of a mango tree, the view to our right is the powerful Pelada beach, perfect for a relaxed afternoon and to our left, the winding jungle path to the Nosara B&B Retreat, where Clive has created this literary endeavor. So, I asked, why Costa Rica? Why Nosara? And, most importantly, why literature?

CR Star Clive looks to the sky, shrugging his brows and smiling; why Costa Rica? For him, the answer is quite simple:

I have found that it is great to get out of your own culture. I’ve made workshops in Italy, Scotland and within the U.S., and I began to see that just getting away made sense. If you think of places like Europe or within the U.S., they might work, but one knows that Europe is the cradle of Western Civilization and the U.S. still has a certain familiarity, no matter where you go. But Costa Rica is different, it’s cheaper for a start (he grins successfully), and it’s tropical, it’s Latino and that’s great, it’s just a different vibe. When you’re writing and the Howler monkeys welcome you with their guttural sound, you know you’re somewhere special.

CR Star So it’s about the tangible stuff, the details that surround you?

Not only that; the intangible stuff, that aura, be it good or bad, your home gives you, it vanishes when you’re in a different place. The energy of the surroundings is very important and a breath of new, fresh air is sometimes all it takes.

CR Star You change the scenery, but do the people change?

Strangely, you get away from your own culture but that doesn’t mean I don’t want to be around people from my culture. It’s very interesting to see that the people I meet here in the Nosara workshops are close to the same that I meet in other places, and that’s great: it means their goals are the same, a detail so minute, but one that makes me understand and prepare myself for my job.

Still different people, no matter how similar the goal, will think differently.

Completely agree and to work on that, I take to my influences all around life. My literary influence, my “second” father, Herbert Huncke, always had an intensity, an ability to express himself that always stuck on me. Also, if you take my mother, with her comfort during communication, her ease of talking, it was amazing, it was something that you wanted to emulate. Firstly, I followed Beat poetry quite aggressively then, after my degree, I got more of a Post Modern feel, which meant my scope of influences is pretty wide, and that helps in understanding every one coming here.

CR Star And how do they interact? Are you reminded of school children being introduced at the playground?

I like to put it this way: they compete with themselves, but in a great and healthy way. Why? They compete with their inner self because they must. Poets, prose, fiction, journal, non-fiction, memoir, they all come here, writing differently, different styles, moods, influences. Their writing becomes their method of communication and it becomes amazingly interesting.

CR Star So now that you know whom your people are going to be? After four years of doing this, what is it you expect? What are your goals with them?

My goal is very simple, it’s to create confidence but through their creative unconscious. We all have it, we all have that Crazy Child inside us, it’s just a matter of letting him write and start creating.

CR Star Then tell us about WordSwell?

WordSwell is exactly that, it looks to bring out the writer in all of us by engaging their creative unconscious in a dynamic, healing and appealing way. It’s all about the environment and that’s I work hard to create.

CR Star As we see where this workshop is headed to, I am sure the reader can plainly see that this geared towards creation, a thought process to say, so that might lead people into thinking differently of the workshop, don’t you think?

It would, but that’s great! Most workshops revolve around editing, or at least, those are the workshops that are most common. They dictate what sounds, or looks, good in writing. But what we do in this workshop is different. We unleash the writer in them, and that’s great, because they write! Getting them here is the hard part, if one can use that adjective, and once that happens, it’s pretty much smooth sailing because we have let the crazy kid inside us write. We get in touch with emotions here, which isn’t that common.

CR Star So, how can you tell me it worked?

(Immediately he smiled)

I can safely say it worked when I see them writing with comfort. When they are not afraid to express what they have written. Simply put: when they feel good about writing. There’s the evidence.

CR Star Great, that’s a great reaction to get. And you think Nosara helps?

Definitely, the small groups are key, but this place is simply magical. (A howler monkey greets us with his potent grunt, we both smile in irony), isn’t it? If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it. I don’t plan to change this place.

CR Star And what about time? What’s ideal and what’s practical?

Ten days is just enough. We have a lot of week longs, some of them even include camping in the Sierra, but the seven days usually mean that times is just a bit tight, organization is key. With ten days, you even get a free day, excursions, alone time, and all of that helps in developing creativity.

CR Star So, tell me about the cherry on the icing: success stories?

Every one of them who leaves happy, who cherishes writing for what it is and understands they can do it. One funny story, I had one participant who didn’t even consider participating in a literary contest because her manuscript “wasn’t good” enough. Larky, she sent it and ended up winning Honorable Mention. How about that?

CR Star Now getting into writers, hopefully making them think and get that spark going, what’s the mistake they make? What’s the one mistake you’d erase from their minds?

They are blinded by the questions: is it going to make me money? When will it get published? Who will read it? Let’s face it; some of the stuff that gets published isn’t necessarily the best writing around.

That’s not the point and that misleads writers. I’ve seen workshop attendees create far better work than stuff that’s out there. I have always believed that’s the fault of the school system. Remember we have three people living inside of us: the Editor, wishing for everything to be perfect; the Writer, focusing on being a mediator, on joining the work and finally the Crazy Child, the creative one.

They focus on the editor, they focus on the writer, but they don’t focus on the crazy child, on the one that lets creativity run its course. Most of the creativity happens now by accident, the accident gets patched up and that’s it. It shouldn’t be that way.

CR Star So that’s what you transmit?

Yes, I create an oasis of creativity, and for everyone, because urge comes at all ages.

CR Star Anything to tell those writers out there?

Writing is not about others, you have to write for yourself, and that makes for great results.

Clive Matson is the author of Let the Crazy Child Write! and An Eye for an Eye makes the World Blind, amidst many other great work, and has participated in over 3000 workshops all around the world (Now he thinks that number is close to 4000). He comes to Costa Rica every year to the Nosara B&B Retreat and is keen on keeping his workshop going. You can visit his website www.matsonpoet.com or contact the wonderful Nosara B&B resort for more information on this and other retreats.

For questions about the Writing Workshop contact Clive:
Phone: 510-654-6495
Email: clive@matsonpoet.com

To register and for questions about the Nosara Retreat contact Deborah:
Phone: 212-381-1823 (local 506 2682-0209)
Email: info@NosaraRetreat.com

The Envision Festival in Costa Rica borrows a page from Burning Man, along with some elements of Lollapalooza and the Winter Music Conference to offer a unique experience that is more accessible to the general public than the aforementioned events. Community and artistic self-expression are important elements of the Envision Festival, but other important aspects of life in Costa Rica are also highlighted. Spirituality, sustainability and respect for nature are equally important at the Envision Festival, a singular event that will bring people from different parts of the world to Bahia Ballena in the Southern Pacific region of the Puntarenas province.

The Natural Beauty of Bahia Ballena

Located just a few kilometers south of Playa Uvita, Bahia Ballena is a protected conservation area that serves as a sanctuary for marine birds, humpback whales, lizards, and many other amphibious and aquatic species. Bahia Ballena is a paradise for ecotourists due to everything the area has to offer; from cetacean sightings of dolphins and whales to unique lush vegetation, and from howler monkeys to colorful macaws. Unlike other coastal areas of our country, Bahia Ballena is still a very pristine natural treasure.

Bahia Ballena is the starting point for many eco-adventures. The Corcovado National Park, Isla Cano and the mangroves of Tierra Sierpe are easily accessible from Bahia Ballena. It is against this beautiful natural backdrop that the Envision Festival will unfold over 4 days at the beginning of March.

The Envision Festival’s Vision

The way organizers Brendan Jaffer and Luigi Jimenez describe it, the Envision Festival is “a mixture of art and nature, a call to return to an essence of being.” In an interview with 506 magazine, Brendan summed up the festival’s vision to mix “technology with communal traditions, dancing and costumes. The festival brings opportunities to learn and grow, not just as people, but also as a community, through different workshops.”

The sense of community also seeks to instill a sense of responsibility. “The festival donates to the local community, for different causes. Last year we fixed an artesian well system in the Dominical school, and we also contributed to a sustainable reforestation program. The previous festival was relatively small, and few people in Costa Rica found out about the event. On Saturday night we had estimated about 500 people. We held the festival on a few lots adjacent to the Baru River. It was a nice event, with music, good vibrations, art, exhibits, and great food. There were lectures and workshops during the daytime and music and dancing by night. Everyone thanked us and said it was very special. The locals told us they had seen nothing like it before”, stated Brendan Jaffer.

For his part, Luigi Jimenez called attention to the many activities: “painting, yoga, performance, visual arts, bamboo structures… I guess in a way it could be referred to as an spiritual retreat.” The festival is also highly eco-friendly: “not only are we presenting an event with minimal environmental impact (we are even using biodiesel and solar energy), but we also try to educate those in attendance about how they can be more responsible and ecologically conscious for the rest of their lives”, explained Brendan.

Reasons to go to the Envision Festival

In the words of organizer Luigi Jimenez: “Well, it’s summertime, and I can tell you that there will be great music and great artists. Besides, we will be in one of the best beaches in the world, which means that -of course- there will be beautiful girls in bikinis… it’s a ‘win-win’ situation. Outside of my personal view, it is a great opportunity to share and enjoy a festival that has a vision more intrinsic of who we are as people. It’s about learning to get along in a basic manner for a few days and to enjoy life… drunk on art and nature.”

Partial Musical Lineup

-Beats Antique
-Opiuo
-Sonambulo
-Huba & Silica
-DJ Melissa O
-Ojo de Buey

Activities: surfing, paragliding, horseback riding, hiking, yoga, dance, art, music, ecological workshops, and more.

Warm Up Event: Premonition, a musical event featuring GAUDI, Love and Light, and other electronic music acts at ClubVertigo in Paseo Colon this February 25^th. GAUDI is fresh from a scorching set at Burning Man.

The Feria del Gustico was an event coordinated by the Ministry of Agriculture and the Costa Rican Chamber of Exporters (CADEXCO) in English. The motivation behind this event wasn’t so much culinary in the beginning; it was rather an effort to encourage farmers and foodstuffs producers to become aware of the great potential our land can offer to cooks and food lovers worldwide. Costa Rica is a country known for the many gifts she bestows to farmers and consumers alike. Agricultural entrepreneurs who practice principles of organic farming as much as they can are greatly rewarded, and there is a general sentiment towards refraining from controversial mass farming techniques that could negatively impact our land. As a result, Ticos have a great time each weekend at the local farmer markets, and demand for high-quality agricultural products is growing.

The ingredients are definitely in place, but some elements are missing. Greater pride and passion from everyday cooks, more entrepreneurial spirit from the food producers, a greater sense of engagement from the public, etc. These important elements seem to be missing from the gastronomical scene in Costa Rica; something that the Feria del Gustico tried to address this weekend. The Ministry of Agriculture extended an open invitation to growers and producers to become exhibitors, and they demanded high quality from all applicants. Not all those who applied made the cut, either; out of 130 applicants, 100 were accepted, and ministerial staff took the time to coach those that did not make the cut. Everything that was offered at Feria del Gustico over the weekend was export quality.

A Culinary Renaissance

Some of the highlights of the Feria del Gustico included cheese, chocolates, coffee, and flowers. One of the goals was to teach exporters and producers the proper ways to set up tastings and exhibitions. There were also important conferences for agricultural entrepreneurs who want to tap into the lucrative global trade markets. For the public, renowned Chef Doris Goldgewicht was on hand to teach attendants how to get the most out of our traditional and extremely simple recipes. She also shared quite a few pictures of the event on her Facebook profile.

A Renaissance in terms of cooking may soon come to kitchens across Costa Rica. Television cooking shows like Viviana en tu Cocina are very popular, and publications like Revista Sabores have amassed great interest from Tico cooks. Revista Sabores follows a great tradition that began with Tia Florita, a master cook who many years appeared on television encouraging cooks at home to get creative and to go beyond the daily rice-and-beans combo. When Tia Florita started over 35 years ago, her audiences were more than likely Tica housewives, but in recent years her culinary empire has grown to books, magazines, television, and webcasts. Tia Florita’s recipe books are legendary among cooks in Costa Rica, particularly for her fondness in sharing traditional recipes enhanced by her gastronomical expertise.

Nouvelle Cuisine

Cooks in Costa Rica tend not to follow the strict and elaborate rules of haute cuisine that French cooks developed centuries ago. They are more likely to practice the principles of nouvelle cuisine, eschewing the emphasis on the heavy use of dairy products in favor of cooking techniques that bring out natural flavors. Out fertile land gives nascence to delicious cereals, fruits, grains, and vegetables; it is up to Tico cooks to make the most out of our quality ingredients.

Simplicity and frugality are at the heart of traditional Tico cuisine, and those characteristics should not be abandoned. Certain easy practices, however, can be safely implemented to compliment the delightful ingredients and breathe new life into old recipes. For example, our national dish -Gallopinto- typically consists of rice, beans, onions, bell peppers, cilantro, a dash of Lizano sauce, and that’s pretty much it. Certain improvements like adding a bit of crushed garlic sauteed in super-hot olive oil, a touch of black pepper, tiny shavings of cooked pork, or a sprinkle of chicken broth can go a long way towards enhancing the flavor of natural ingredients.

Here’s a nouvelle cusinine twist on the old sopa negra (black bean soup) that traditionally consists of liquified black beans, cilantro and hard-boiled eggs.

Sopa de frijoles borrachita (Black Bean and Beer Soup)

Serves 6 portions:

-1 kg of black beans
-3 liters of water
-1 celery stalk, finely chopped
-1 head of garlic, finely chopped
-2 onions, finely chopped
-1 large diced carrot
-2 bay leaves
-150 grams of diced bacon
-1/2 can of tomato paste
-1 can of beer – definitely Imperial
-Salt, pepper and Lizano sauce to each individual taste

Black beans should always be left soaking overnight. When it comes time to cooking the beans, the old water should never be used, always start with fresh water. Once the beans are cooking, the celery, garlic, half of the onion, and the bay leaves should be added to the pan.

The soaked beans will start to soften at medium heat after 45 minutes. In the meantime, the rest of the onion should be sauteed along with the bacon, the tomato paste, the salt and spices, and the beer. This sauce should be added to the beans after about an hour, and the bay leaves should be removed. Before adding any more salt, cooks should consider the fact that the bacon will continue to release sodium.

Some variations on this recipe could include fresh chunks of tomatoes for a more reddish look.  Garnish with herbs, chips and fresh vegetables for a more appetizing effect. Buen Provecho.

I was forwarded this video earlier tonight, and felt compelled to write a quick article about it. You should watch the video before carrying on reading this, click the link, it will open in a new window. Then come back here once you are done.

It shows a frustrated and mad individual attacking 2 surfers with a Machete near the Costa Rica beach town of Pavones. In the video it warns that US citizens should avoid the area and be wary of traveling to Costa Rica. But what is doesn’t mention is anything of detail, it leaves so much to the imagination and sensationalizes the entire news story. Sure, the man was mad, sure he had a machete, but what about all of the things that lead up to this happening. The way he attacked those surfers is in no way acceptable, but no one died during this, and what was the real story behind this happening?

The Judicial Investigation Police OIJ report said that the attacker was attacking the US citizens because earlier in the day they almost ran into the mans daughter while she was also out surfing adjacent to them. The US citizens were also told that the surf break was private and they should leave, multiple times before this happened. In Costa Rica you cannot own the surf of the ocean, so anyone can surf this wake. We think that this was simply a mad local who is tired of having foreigners take over his surfing grounds that he has surfed for years. Which is obviously unacceptable and close minded.

The best way to deal with a situation like this (or avoid it altogether) is to talk it out on the beach with the locals before you go into waves for the first time. No one should ever get attacked over something like this, but common surfer etiquette is to make peace with and get acceptance from the locals before you surf where they do. A community meeting to discuss this event should definitely be in order for Pavones locals and foreigner business owners. There will be more and more people coming to the area and Costa Rica in general, with the new European flights to Liberia International, so everyone should be aware of this and have a plan to deal with the influx of people and foot traffic and how this effects the community infrastructures.

We definitely do not agree with this news station for “warning US citizens” about Costa Rica, that sounds very extreme in nature. Having mutual respect and kindness in your heart when you travel anywhere outside of your home country is a must. If you do this, you will find that Ticos are very kind people and easy to get along with. Taking advice from a news anchor in the US who has most likely never been to Costa Rica is not the best idea, and anyone with a reasonably well rounded view of life would tend to agree. This is a sad thing to have to see, but if we all look at this holistically, certainly the community of Pavones, the mad attacker, and the US surfers can all get along and move forward from this without further negativity.

What do you think about this event and video? What would you do if this happened near the beach where you lived here in Costa Rica?

*IMPORTANT* Click here to follow the discussion about this article on our Facebook page.

The stretches of beaches along the Nicoya peninsula in Guanacaste may be the most beautiful in the world. With their shady palm trees and hidden nooks, it’s the perfect place to lie in a hammock and forget your troubles. However, the more you explore, the more you discover the small details that make these beaches so unique.

Playa Penca, located in Potrero, has soft pink sand that feels like a mini foot massage as you walk across the beach. It is here that I work on my second book, the follow up to Happier Than A Billionaire. With so few people, this is the perfect place to write a chapter or just lean back and take a nap. It was here that I swam in the ocean and decided to make Costa Rica my home. That was over 5 years ago, and I remember the combination of anxiety and excitement I felt knowing my life was going to change drastically. It’s amazing how strongly Costa Rica can speak to you, and how much you don’t want your days here to end.

If you are looking for a place to rent paddle boards or kayaks, Pura Vida Ride on Playa Danta can supply you with all the equipment required for an action-packed day. They even rent mountain bikes where you can take advantage of the ocean view trails that wind around Las Catalinas. When you’re finished, sit back and enjoy a smoothie at Lola’s Restaurant or relax on a tree swing and feel like a kid again. It’s the ultimate playground for adults. Why should the kids have all the fun?

Leaning to surf is best done at Tamarindo. With its long break and great instructors, it’s a terrific place to wipe out and learn the skills needed to stand on a board. An added bonus when hanging out here is listening to the surfer’s conversations. No one asks how the stock market is doing, or mortgage rates, or anything that does not involve the churn of the sea. I like that about Tamarindo; sometimes it takes getting on a surfboard to remember how incredible life can be and how often it gets smothered by one’s daily problems. Happiness for some is simply knowing when high tide is.

Pirates Bay is an interesting beach where I once saw sheep staring out at the ocean. Off shore is a large rock where it is believed Captain Morgan hid his rum. During low tide, I hiked out and climbed it to find the hidden cave. I was greeted by one hundred bats, no rum, but a great story to tell my friends at home. It’s not every day you get to act like a pirate and look for hidden treasures. And it’s not every day you see sheep sunbathing.

Another favorite is Playa Conchal, the best place to swim and snorkel in the northern Pacific. It always seems like this cove has the warmest water, so clear you can see tiny schools of fish race between your legs. It’s here I buy a cold coconut for a dollar—a pipa frio—and drink the cool coconut milk through a straw. It is refreshing, and I dig out the meat inside for an extra treat. For another dollar you can buy a bag of cashews off a lady or purchase an Italian Ice from a man who pushes a cart across the sand.

After reading this article, you can see why I have a hard time answering the question, “What is your favorite beach?” I’m in love with so many I never know which one to choose. And as for the poor tourist I confused, I eventually told him the one he was standing on was the best. Why make things more complicated when every beach here has something to offer? I watched the man as he took off to play in the waves with his family.

Sometimes, where you are is exactly the place you should be. I learned that from a surfer.

Former President Jose Maria Figueres returned from his self-imposed exile in Europe earlier this week to answer to political accusations lodged against him by opponents and former allies. A somber yet resolute Figueres essentially absolved himself from any wrongdoing in the infamous ICE-Alcatel case, in which he is thought to have been instrumental in diverting $900,000 to grease the palms of telecom executives who wished to get a slice of the wireless spectrum pie in Costa Rica.

A criminal investigation and subsequent trial cleared the former President and jailed Alcatel executives. Members of political fractions opposed to the ruling National Liberation party had been calling upon Figueres for years to return to the plenary and explain his involvement. When asked why he has remained in exile rather than explaining his actions, the former President mentioned that the political climate at the time his presence was requested was largely unfavorable.

National news coverage of the Figueres hearing gave media consumers a chance to learn about the different ideologies adopted and supported by different publications.  La Nacion presented different views and opinions on the matter, highlighting the fact that it the whole affair unfolded like a comedy of errors.  Online news daily TicoVision went straight to the heart of the matter, namely court documents that clearly show Alcatel execs in Costa Rica were intent on building powerful political connections in order to get a foothold in the lucrative Tico communications market.  Digital newspaper El Pais had extensive coverage that was mostly critical of the former President’s dubious performance before lawmakers, while Costa Rica Hoy reported on the cheerful reunion Figueres held with his former party allies, and the fact that social media netizens had a great time taking potshots at the hearing.  A Twitter user summed it up nicely:

The only thing that this hearing makes clear is the inadequacy of our legislators

A Tico Spring in the Making

Diario Extra reported on the rising state of social unrest with regard to the peaceful occupation of the Comptroller Office near La Sabana by farmers, and the call for a general strike launched by national labor union groups protesting the 5,000 colones monthly salary raise given to public employees in contrast with the 150,000 raise given to legislators.

The opinion piece in Diario Extra explained that Ticos have every right to be fed up with the status quo, and added that while it is unlikely that a Tico Spring or a movement like Occupy Wall Street could arise, an even worse scenario may unfold: abstention and apathy at the polls.  Costa Rica has always celebrated her general and municipal elections with high levels of participation, but this pride may subside in light of the current public discontent.

Nine Municipal Officials in Escazu under Investigation

The OIJ raided City Hall in Escazu earlier this week after a German national lodged several complaints regarding suspicious activity related to the issuance of construction permits in the Quebrada Jaboncillo Natural Conservation Area.  The alleged illegal construction in the area prompted a resident by the last name of Krone to file complaints with the Public Ministry.  No arrests have been made, and the municipality did not respond to requests for comments made by Diario Extra.

Costa Rica is Firmly Against Forced Disappearances and Extraordinary Renditions

The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Enrique Castillo, announced that Costa Rica is the first country in the Americas to ratify the United Nations resolutions against extraordinary rendition and other scary tactics used by sovereign states in matters of defense, espionage and subversion.  Forced disappearances in Latin America were a staple of totalitarian regimes in the 20^th century, and extraordinary renditions have been confirmed by the United States and the United Kingdom during the War on Terror.  Source:  La Rioja.

ECONOMY

The strength of the national currency against the U.S. dollar may soon come to and end, according to a report by El Financiero.  Some forecasts are calling for depreciation in the middle of the year due to the movement of certain macroeconomic indicators. Tico investors tend to favor conservative financial instruments such as savings accounts and certificates of deposit, and in 2010 and 2011, investors shied away from investments in dollars.

The projected move to the greenback is also expected to raise the interest rates paid by accounts held in dollars.  In terms of currency exchange, the dollar is expected to yield between 520 and 540 colones by the end of the year.

Plug-In Electric Cars Will Enjoy Downtown Freedom

In the next few weeks, drivers of electric vehicles in San Jose will be allowed to transit freely, without having to worry about the number in their license plates.  The Ministry of Transportation (MOPT) recently announced the measure, adding that the National Power and Light Company will also unveil a new fleet of zero-emission utility vehicles.  Hybrid vehicles are still subject to vehicular restrictions during the week, but according to a spokesperson from the MOPT that may change in the future.  Source:  La Republica

Sovereign Debt and Interest Rates on the Rise

For the third time this year, the Central Bank has authorized a rate increase on its fixed interest public debt bonds.  The move is very indicative of a growing deficit and inflation.  The one-year certificate of deposit, DEP360, now stands to pay 7.45 percent, according to Mis Finanzas en Linea.  The rates are now at a two-year high.

HEALTH

The Health Ministry is currently evaluating the elimination of the pneumococcus vaccine from its early childhood immunization schedule, something that is worrying officials from the World Health Organization.  The Health Ministry explained that the significant reduction in cases of childhood pneumonia is behind its decision to eliminate the vaccine, but public health departments in 55 countries around the world still include it as part of their disease prevention efforts.  The Health Ministry claims that pneumoccus has been virtually eradicated from Costa Rica. Source: Repretel

Counterfeit Prescription Drug Use on the Rise

Online medical journal MedicalXpress warned about the burgeoning global market of counterfeit prescription medications. Investigations conducted by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration have revealed that medications such as Avastin for cancer treatment and Lipitor for high cholesterol treatment are being manufactured in clandestine labs in Asia and Latin America.  American wholesalers are knowingly purchasing these counterfeit medications, as evidenced by a 2005 case in which a shipment of made-in-Costa Rica unauthorized Lipitor was intercepted in Missouri.

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

A high school teacher who specializes in Social and Civic Studies is taking advantage of mobile apps to expand learning.  Erick Sandi explained to La Nacion that tech-savvy students are responding better to education when they are able to integrate smartphones and tablet computers.  Sandi teaches at different schools in Tres Rios and Desamparados, and creates his own educational apps on multiple mobile platforms.

International Marine Biology Summit Call for Improved Classification

A five-day international summit of marine biologists at UCR concluded on February 15 with a call for scientists to implement better taxonomy measures.  Climate change is transforming marine habitats, and the changes are not being recorded correctly.  Ecologists who are working towards improving conditions in marine ecosystems are seeing their work hampered by the lack of uniform classification of aquatic species, something that Tico marine biologists are currently working on.

SPORTS

Jorge Luis Pinto, head coach of the National Football Team has called up 14 journeymen Tico players who currently labor in teams abroad. The occasion for the extraordinary calling up is the friendly match against Wales at the end of the month. That match will be played in honor of Gary Speed, the talented player and coach who tragically took his own life last November.  According to Deportes Terra, the all-star lineup will include Bryan Ruiz and Joel Campbell.  Only 5 players from the current champion Liga Deportiva Alajuelense are expected to play.

LIFESTYLE AND ENTERTAINMENT

Popular television show Combate on Repretel is transcending audiences when it comes to age.  According to Al Dia, when cast member Benny Madrigal took his 5 year-old son Alejandro to his first day at kindergarten, the young students and their mothers rushed to meet the Combate star, pushing and shoving their way to get a photograph next to Benny.  His own son, however, did not understand the commotion, as according to Benny “he doesn’t really understand what goes on television.”

Rule number one is to never connect to a public Wi-Fi network without a firewall and anti-virus protection. When using a public Wi-Fi network, you should assume that there is no network security. Ideally, a public Wi-Fi hotspot does not allow devices on the network to see each other. The Wi-Fi router should block any attempt to discover any other devices on the network. However, you cannot assume that this is the case. With one minor error in router configuration, the public Wi-Fi network looks like a local network, where all device can communicate with each other.

Rule number two is to use a VPN service for all sensitive information. There are just too many ways to decode normal browser traffic and collect personal information. With VPN, all information is encrypted, at a higher level of security.

Rule number three is to turn off the Wi-Fi feature that automatically connects your mobile device to the Wi-Fi hot spot with the strongest signal. With automatic connections, you may be connecting to a rogue public Wi-Fi hotspot. A rogue public Wi-Fi hotspot (also called “Man in The Middle”) connects to a legitimate Internet connection, and captures traffic as it passes through the rogue hotspot. This traffic is then decoded to collect account names, passwords, and credit card numbers. Even VPN encoded traffic is not immune to this attack, it just takes a lot more work to decode it.

Rule number four is to not ignore the untrusted certificate messages issued by the browser. When connecting to a secure Web site, your browser receives a certificate that the site is who it says it is. The browser compares the certificated with its database of Trusted Certificate Authorities. If there is a problem with the certificate, you get the untrusted certificate message. You should always view the certificate in question. In some cases, the certificate is valid for the domain to which you are connecting, but they failed to certify the full URL. These certificates are usually OK. You should always be wary of certificates from untrusted certificate authorities. Never accept a certificate from DigiNotar. Both Google and Firefox removed DigiNotar from the list of Trust Certificate Authorities due its certificates being used in rogue Wi-Fi hotspot attacks. Be extremely aware of self-signed digital certificates.

Rule number five is to check the trusted certificates on your browser, and remove DigiNotar as a Trusted Certificate Authority. You will not be able to do this on iPhones, iPads, or Android versions before Ice Cream Sandwich (ICS). ICS added the capability to audit your certificate database.

Rule number six is to remember that firewalls and anti-virus programs do nothing to protect you from rogue public Wi-Fi hotspots. On Android devices you can install Wifi Protector to automatically detect, protect and defend against most rogue Wi-Fi hotspots. I was unable to find an equivalent app for iPhones, or iPads.

Rule number 7 only applies to Windows 7, and to businesses and homes with a secure internal network. Windows 7 introduced Wireless Hosted Network. If a Windows 7 computer is connected to a wired LAN, and has SoftAP certified Wi-Fi adapter, it can act as a public Wi-Fi hotspot. It is imperative that the virtual Wi-Fi feature be disabled. You may accidentally become the man in the middle in a public area. You should only enable this feature, when you are using your Windows 7 laptop to tether other devices to the Internet.

By following the above rules, we can use a public Wi-Fi hotspot with a higher degree of confidence that our personal information is secure from unwanted intrusion. As I have said before, it is extremely difficult to stop a professional thief, but we can protect against the common thief.

I worked for a Honduran wine company in Roatan, Honduras. Now the owner wants me to be the distributor here in Costa Rica. I tried to talk to the Health Ministry and they would not talk to me. How do we ship wine from Honduras and what is the process to get it here so I can begin selling it to stores and restaurants?

Another reader named Sharon left us a question on our Facebook wall:

What about shipping prescription medications from the US for vets and even vitamins? Also, at the Aerocasillas in the free trade zones in La Aurora, are there customs or duties that are added to shipments?

We will answer Marianna’s question first:

Hello Marianna, thanks for writing. We have already touched on a similar topic, specifically related to bringing frozen salmon and other food products through the Juan Santamaria (SJO) and Daniel Oduber Quiros (LIR) international airports. Some of the requirements mentioned in that article will apply in your case.

You mentioned approaching the Ministerio de Salud (Health Ministry) to no avail. You did the right thing, as your chosen import will need to get approval from that entity. It is unfortunate that they did not help you, as their involvement will be crucial for what you wish to accomplish. Your success in this endeavor will require you to navigate the intricate landscape of trade regulations, and to this extent you may wish to retain the services of an expert in import affairs, such as an attorney or a customs agent. We can discuss laws, regulations and business practices since it is our constitutional right to do so, but we cannot give you advice. That falls strictly under the purview of certain professionals.

Applicable Laws and Rules

The growing thirst for imports in Costa Rica does not seem to be letting up, particularly when it comes to cars and wine. Ticos are consuming wine in greater quantities, and judging by attendance figures and interest at events such as ExpoVino, the thirst is bound to continue. We can safely expect that more business people will engage in the importation of wine. In fact, the first full-scale winery is slated to open in Costa Rica soon. According to trade journal The Drinks Business, a winemaker from the Napa Valley plans to grow the following grapes in our higher altitude regions: Cabernet Sauvignon, Grenache, Pinot Noir, Sauvignon Blanc, and Syrah. The winemaker is Kerry Damskey, and he has been producing wine in California for over 30 years.

For those who are interested in getting into wine imports in Costa Rica, the pertinent laws that will apply include Law Number 7557 (General Customs Law) and Law Number 8707 (Fiscal Registry of Alcoholic Beverages). More specifically, the Technical Rules for Central American Trade (PDF), Annex 2, establishes the process for registration and inspection of foodstuffs, including wine.

A budding wine importer should either become familiar with the laws and regulations to follow, or at least seek the assistance of trade organizations such as Crecex (now known as the Costa Rican Chamber of Importers, Distributors and Representatives), Procomer, or legal practitioners such as Margarita Libby, a former Tica teen pop star and competitive Black Belt in Tae Kwon-Do who helped write the customs law in El Salvador. Margarita is now an expert in trade matters, and a lot of the material discussed here comes from her website.

The fact that Marianna wishes to import wine from Honduras makes it a lot easier, since the Health Departments of Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Hondurans, and Nicaragua have all signed off on RTCA 67.01.31:06, the rules that apply to the inspection and importation of wine and other products between those countries. There are certain requirements pertaining to the registration and inspection of wine, and those are shared between Costa Rica and Honduras.

Business Strategy

When it comes to importing foodstuffs, particularly wine, an importer should first determine if there is a potential market for it. In Marianna’s case we can safely assume the wine is delicious, and that Ticos will probably warm up to it since it comes from a sister Central American nation, but tastings are de rigueur. There is very little information regarding Honduran wine on the web sites where wine connoisseurs congregate; in fact, the only mention is a wine called La Libertad Robusto Zigarren, selling for $37 on Snooth, but no reviews.

Marianna can get a good idea of how her wine will fare among the palates of Ticos by securing a spot at the ExpoVino next year. In the meantime, she can offer tastings to the local restaurant and retail stores that sell wine. The process of becoming a registered importer of alcoholic beverages is bound to take some effort, so it would be a good idea to test the waters prior to tackling such activity. Getting a few sample bottles of wine for tasting and exhibition purposes would be a lot easier to start off with would be a lot easier, and it makes better sense from a business point of view.

One way to bring a few wine bottles from Honduras for tasting here without having to worry about taxes or health permits would be to somehow register them at the duty-free shop in the Tocontin International Airport in Tegucigalpa. That would shift the burden of import and customs to the winemaker, and it may even make it easier for future clearance here, plus it would open up opportunities for international travelers to get to know the wine. Duty-free shops at airports are great for international marketing.

Tax-Exempt Imports of Commercial Wine Samples

Up to $200 worth of wine can be imported as samples, exempt from import taxes, as long at the bottles meet the following requirements:

-A completed request form that can be obtained from Procomer or the Health Ministry
-A certificate from the country of origin that the wine is sold and distributed at the retail level
-A certificate from the country of origin that the wine has met the local Health Ministry requirements
-A label that indicates “Sample Only-Not for Sale”

The request form from Procomer or the Health Ministry asks for certain data from the person collecting the wine, such as identification number, origin information, product info, as well as when and where the tasting will take place. According to Procomer, the process takes about 10 days.

Using Aerocasillas or Other Customs Agents

Here we get to answer Sharon’s question as well. When it comes to importing wine and medications for personal use, Aerocasillas and other customs agents can handle the clearing of the products for a fee. Aerocasillas is a mail forwarding company that offers custom clearing services as well.

According to Aerocasillas’ web page the process for clearing wine that is shipped to Costa Rica for personal use takes between 5 to 7 days. The cost of the customs clearing service is $10, and it will require certain documents to be filed, such as a power of attorney authorizing Aerocasillas to act as customs agent, a completed request form from Procomer or the Health Ministry, an original sales receipt bearing the name of the person receiving the wine, and a bill of lading.

Aerocasillas can also be used to receive prescription medications, like Sharon asked. The process is similar to that of clearing customs for wine destined for personal use, except for a few additional forms required. A copy of the sales receipt, a copy of the identification document, a written request addressed to Customs or the Health Ministry from either the patient, a relative or a legal guardian. An acknowledgment from a physician in Costa Rica who certifies the diagnosis, prescription and treatment is also required.

Vitamins and natural health products are on the Customs’ list of prohibited items, and thus Aerocasillas will not handle them. Many countries have similar prohibitions; an unfortunate side effect from the War on Drugs.

Companies that are registered to do business at the Free Trade Zones are exempt from many obligations, including paying import taxes on certain items. An item shipped from overseas to a business entity within a Free Trade Zone may be exempt from import taxes, but it must be shipped to that company and picked up by an agent thereof. The Aerocasillas in La Aurora de Heredia handles a lot of packages for the Free Trade Zones companies -most of them foreign- but they will collect import taxes on behalf of Customs whenever applicable.

We hope these answers are helpful. Good luck with the wine venture, Marianna, and  don’t forget to send us a couple of bottles once your business is up and running.

Recently my girlfriend and I decided to take a drive up the mountain north of Heredia where we live. We had no plan, just a setting sun and a gorgeous February afternoon. As I downshifted to try to get up a hill a sudden squeal made me pull over. At first I thought something else had failed on my car (when you own a 1990 BMW 325i this happens occasionally). Thankfully not. It was my girlfriend rendered speechless by a tremendous rainbow formed by the setting sun and the mountain mist, mixed with a rustic farmhouse in the foreground it was the stuff of postcards. I thought of my compact camera, safely in its messenger bag, which was safely tucked away in my closet back home. Cursing ensued—in two languages.

I tried to take a picture with her phone. More cursing. I wished for my trusty compact, for my film camera (more on that in a future article), for my DSLR with its super-wide lens. Anything but a phone. I gave up.

We drove uphill a bit more, chasing the end of the rainbow until the dodgy fuel pump got a bit too warm and starting misbehaving. I took one more shot with the phone. Reasonable success.

As we coasted down the mountain the setting sun taunted me, more squeals from the passenger seat reinforced my oversight, and the guy with a Nikon on a tripod and a huge orange-ball-sun setting over the hills nearly made me cry. If it is possible to sulk while driving, I did.

Though I managed to forget my camera I did discover (remember?) that the mountains of Heredia have tons of great places to slip away for an afternoon, a weekend or to fill in a blank spot in a travel itinerary. It takes less than an hour (in non rush-hour time) to get there from the Central Valley, and it can be a refreshing change. There are lots of lodging options that are great for cozying up for a night or two. And you’ll want to cozy up since it’s colder than you think up there, especially if you are a weather-sissified ex-pat coddled by the the perfect temperatures in the valley.

There are several routes up the mountain but the preferred ones will take you through San José de la Montaña or through San Rafael de Heredia. The San Rafael side sends you up toward the famed Monte de la Cruz (a wooded municipal park with a giant cross) and the nearly as famous and rather ritzy La Condesa hotel, as well as Hotel Chalet El Tirol. The drive up is in good shape (up to about the park anyway) and dotted with local restaurants of varying price points as well as fancy estates. Tops for uppity eats on this side of the hill is Baalbek (great view too).

The San José de la Montaña route is well, different. Once you get above said town, things get interesting. The road quickly dwindles to about 1 and a half lanes wide which makes for hair-raising encounters with on-coming traffic where uphill traffic has unofficial right of way because of the steepness of the hills. This side of the mountain features more farms and frankly more photo opportunities. This area also has a bit more for the folks on a budget or for the adventurous.

The Barva Volcano doesn’t get nearly the number of visitors than does it’s steamy neighbor Poás, but it’s no reason to overlook it if you are equipped with a 4×4 vehicle and a strong set of legs. It’s rugged in there and always damp, but it’s more natural feeling than Poás, plus you might have it all to yourself on a weekday. This is one of my all time favorite shots, taken during the week in the Barva Volcano:

If you are sans the vehicle or the fitness, check out Canopy Adventure for some killer zip-lining and a bit of knowledge. Once you’re all adventured out it’ll be time to eat and sleep. There are lots of hotels to choose from, but I hear good things about El Pórtico (and it was packed for Valentine’s Day so there’s a clue). You’ll have your pick of restaurants, mostly local tourist places that’ll be good for local fare and a brew. Most weekends you will be able to find lodging without a reservation, but if you have a specific place in mind call ahead.

The hills are calling valley-dwellers, answer the call, but please please don’t forget your camera.

The high cost of purchasing and maintaining a vehicle in Costa Rica is the biggest incentive for Tico car shoppers to look into importing a car, particularly from the United States. At the peak of the Great Recession months ago, a quick scan of online classified website Craigslist would have returned several listings for cars being sold at incredibly cheap prices. To some people it seemed like a fire sale of used cars, but behind many of those listings there were stories of heartbreak and despair. Many financially distressed car owners turned to Craigslist to sell their most liquid asset in a hurry, usually to make a mortgage or rent payment, or to put food on the table.

Although the situation has improved a bit in the United States, some great deals can be found, particularly when compared to local listings. For example, a current listing on Craigslist in Orlando, Florida features a four-door 1994 Toyota Corolla selling for $1,100. A similar listing in Alajuela goes for 1,450,000 colones, approximately $2,800. For a motivated buyer looking for used cars in Costa Rica, the Craigslist listing may seem very enticing. After all, how much more can shipping and import taxes add to the final cost? In many cases, a lot.

Vehicle Import Taxes

The current taxes for importing vehicles into Costa Rica are 52.29% for models that rolled out of the assembly line in the last three years. For import tax purposes, a car is considered brand-new in Costa Rica for up to three years after it was placed on the lot, regardless of mileage or condition. This did not used to be the case a few years ago, when Ticos could import clunkers and declared them as salvaged automobiles that would never circulate on our highways and narrow streets.

The Ministerio de Hacienda (Treasury) now sets the value of import vehicles in a manner similar to that of the Kelley Blue Book with regard to the cars’ make, chassis, engine, and accessories. Mileage and mechanical condition are no longer taken into consideration. In fact, legislation that will restrict the importation of cars that are 6 or 7 years old regularly emerges in our National Assembly, and environmental groups concerned over emission standards are in support. Import taxes for cars that are between 4 and 5 years old are assessed at 63.91%, and cars older than 5 years must pay 79.03%. Such exorbitant taxes are ostensibly set to curb the circulation of even more cars in our country and to avoid a situation in which Costa Rica is overrun with clunkers, something that is already happening in Guatemala. This makes it a lot more appealing for import car shoppers to purchase new cars in excellent conditions, or to surrender to buying a car from a local dealer -in some cases.

For drivers interested in purchasing a car overseas or even shipping their own vehicle here, the Treasury offers an online calculator that is very complicated to use. An easier way to estimate taxes and consider whether it makes financial sense to import a car is to use the Kelley Blue Book web calculator and accept the typical mileage suggested. We will take the 1994 Corolla from Craigslist cited above: 165,000 miles, 4-door sedan running on gasoline on a 105 horsepower engine without added options and in excellent condition. According to Kelley, the suggested retail price for that Corolla is $2,853. The Treasury would apply 79.03% to that price and will only release the car from the customs warehouse until approximately $2254.72 are paid. As a result, our customs warehouses regularly have cars that arrived on ships to the Moin docks in Limon but were never claimed by owners who could not come up with the import taxes.

Other examples, presented by Teletica:

A 2006 BMW X5 arrives in Moin with a sales receipt of $600. The Treasury puts the value at $15,714, thus the taxes to be paid come up to about $10,400. That car goes for $36,000 at a dealership in San Jose.

A 1998 Mitsubishi Montero Sport is allegedly purchased for $400 in Florida, but the Treasury states the value at almost $4,000, and thus taxes in excess of $3,000 must be paid. That car can be found at one of the many used car lots in Grecia for about $8,500.

Shipping and Customs Fees

A few Tico families have set up vehicle shipping and importing operations in the United States. These import-export agents offer a range of services, from vehicle purchase to transportation to the ports and embarking. They are usually located near maritime shipping cities such as Fort Lauderdale, Miami, Delaware, New York, Houston, Los Angeles, Seattle, etc. Cars are typically loaded on a transport ship that sails between the United States and Costa Rica carrying fruit and vegetables. Ships at the service of Del Monte and Dole that would otherwise return to Costa Rica empty are commonly used. Current shipping fees range between $600 and $800, and they include shipping insurance, which is paramount since a number of things can go wrong in transit from one port to another.

If a car must be transported far away from the American port, the vehicle owner can expect to pay additional transport fees. Upon arrival to Moin, if the car need to be transported to another customs warehouse -in San Jose, for example, there will be additional fees. Fiscal stamps and fumigation run about $600. The shipping fees and point-of-origin emission testing is paid overseas. The import taxes and custom fees are paid in Costa Rica. Once all that has been accomplished, it is time to make the car street-legal.

Emissions and Mechanical Standards

Imported vehicles must meet certain standards of emissions upon their entry. All imported cars must bear an emissions certificate from the country of origin; this certificate would be ratified by auto technicians when the vehicle arrives on the ship or car carrier. This certificate must be presented to the Transportation Ministry (MOPT) instead of to the Treasury. The only exception to this requirement would be for personal or competition vehicles that are expected to transit only for a short period of tourism.

All imported cars will be subject to inspection by RITEVE, the controversial Spanish-owned auto inspection company that is currently embroiled in arbitration against the MOPT. The multiple-point inspection covers emissions, brakes, signal lights, windshield wipers, and other mechanical and safety features. Upon the initial inspection, used vehicles will be subject to annual inspections, while new vehicles will be inspected every two years.

Registration and License Plates

Getting the coveted marchamo is a topic of much anxiety among Tico vehicle owners. This must be accomplished between November 1 and December 31.

Every January 1, transit police are only too happy to set up roadblocks to issue tickets to drivers who have not paid insurance and registration fees. At first sight, these roadblocks can be seen as highly unfair, particularly when our Constitution allows free movement across our land. The catch is that driving in Costa Rica is a privilege that comes with some responsibilities. When an individual is issued a driver’s license, he or she agrees to be put at the pleasure of transit authorities in the absence of reasonable suspicion. The only constitutional way to avoid such roadblocks is to cross them on foot.

Owners of luxury vehicles (those that cost $15,000 or more), can expect to pay even more on marchamo fees than those who choose to import the 1994 Corolla mentioned before. The registration costs are higher for newer cars and special vehicles such as convertibles, sports cars, luxury SUVs, etc. Initial license plates tend to be of the paper variety, and often have to be extended until the metal plates arrive. The vehicle is eventually placed in a National Registry for the benefit of the owners, but getting this accomplished may require considerable time and numerous bureaucratic maneuvers.

Drivers who import cars often go a step further and retain an attorney to help them with the process from beginning to end. This will add a couple of thousand dollars to the transaction, but brings a lot of peace of mind.

The Future of Car Importation

Going back to the example above, a 1994 Toyota Corolla on Craigslist could end up costing $4,000 or more. Importing that Corolla does not make too much sense, yet we can reasonably expect that importation of vehicles will continue, or that Ticos will eschew importation in favor of local auto dealers and private sellers.

Ticos are hungry for more cars, and there is some speculation that no amount of taxation will curb that hunger. Parking is scarce and congestion is now quotidian. Tolls keep rising in sync with traffic fines. Older cars will more than likely be phased out in favor of newer cars, thus pushing junkyards to their capacities. Tax rates are unlikely to change. A proposed exemption of import and sales taxes for hybrid and electric vehicles fell through in the National Assembly, and President Laura Chinchilla expressed to La Nacion that tax breaks for 100% electric vehicles, such as the brand-new Mitsubishi i-miev, are not in the horizon. Our President made this declaration just as she was test-driving the i-miev last year, which she liked. She added that, in the past, an abundance of tax breaks only contributed to a greater deficit and more cars on the road.

Proposals calling for even higher import taxes have been talked about outside of the sessions at the National Assembly. Special tolls and fines such as the London Congestion Charge ($20 to transit in the city, up to $360 for non-compliance) have also been rumored, as well as higher taxes on fossil fuels. Some measures could pass, some will not, but the overall Tico hunger for cars is not expected to change.

UPDATED:

Here are some businesses that will help you import cars into Costa Rica.

Importelo USA – in Escazu

Auto Accion – in Rohrmoser

Agencia Aduanal – in Paseo Colon

Transoceanic – In Miami, but they ship from Newark, Delaware, Fort Lauderdale, etc

Importador Directo USA – In North Carolina

Finding a car that can cope with the Costa Rican driving conditions is a pretty interesting challenge for those of us with fuel flowing through our brains. Should we go practical or ditch practicality (and money) for a great driving car? Potholes, traffic jams and fuel prices on the rise are a constant reminder that the choice we make could have a profound effect on our wallet.

So, why the Bego? Let’s look at it for a second. It’s no bigger than a king sized bed, it’s got a small 1.5 liter engine and resembles an oversized hatchback more than an SUV. The suspension is rock hard; you can actually feel every single bump on the road, a cool sensation when you are in a racecar in La Guacima (also where Festival Imperial is being hosted this year) and not in driving down the twisting rocky roads on your way to Malpais. Wind noise, even with the windows up and full A/C, is pretty loud and you’ll be lucky to push it past ninety on the highway. I’m a tall man, 6’4” and I’ve banged my head on the pillar a couple of times. All of this sounds terrible, doesn’t it?

Well, it does, but at the same time, remember this car is not made to provide the driver with massaging seats, a talking computer than can tell jokes to pass the time or an Espresso machine on the back in case the weather is too cold. No, this car is for the road trippers. The comfort and power might not be there, but its small size, great range and simple engine make it reliable, fun to use and, most importantly, versatile for both urban and long range driving.

Technical Data:

A DVVT 1.5 liter engine powers the Daihatsu Terios Bego, producing about one hundred horsepower, just enough for this car. Load it to the brim with cargo or heavy passengers and you must be patient. Buyers can choose from the 2WD or 4WD versions, ABS or no ABS, and dual airbags or I hate my co-driver so he gets none; that’s pretty much it. My advice: go for the top of the line range, you’ll be grateful once you use the ABS and test that locking center differential. Remember the Bego doesn’t have low-range gearing, or as we Ticos call it: La Chancha.

The car’s entertainment system is reduced to a very simple, but great sounding, Hamann Kardon MP-3 radio with auxiliary outlet for your MP-3 player. What more do you need? Sound is crisp and quite powerful.

Is it cheap to run?

Yes, very. On average this car is just as expensive to maintain as its urban cousins: the Yaris Hatchback and Daihatsu Charade. Oil changes every ten thousand kilometers instead of every five make it very friendly on the wallet. The small rims mean getting new tires is actually quite easy and those on mine, after all this driving, are still looking great.

Average fuel consumption is as follows: city driving with A/C will result in 11 km/l or 26 mpg and highway driving with A/C will pike it to 15 km/l or 35 mpg. I have been challenged to get 900 km (562 miles) out of a single tank but haven’t found the time to do so. Road trip anyone?

Can it climb walls?

Don’t expect a Land Rover Defender but this car can handle most of the irregular terrain one can find while driving up and down Costa Rica. I’ve crossed rivers, handled rocky terrain and traversed through mud with relative ease. Don’t think you’re doing the Camel Trophy and you’ll be all right. I hope.

Where to?

I have gone to Quepos, Parrita, Cuidad Neily, Palmar Norte, San Gerardo de Dota, Arenal, Nosara, Coco Beach, Jaco, Poas, Puerto Viejo, Siquirres, Orosi, Turrialba, Malpaís, Santa Teresa and Montezuma, so far, in my Terios.

Where can I get one?

You can go to the dealership and buy one, usually that’s the simplest answer. On the used market, finding them shouldn’t be hard, but bear in mind, most Bego owners won’t let go of their cars so easily, until they are ready to be replaced, meaning they’ve probably traveled far and wide across the nation. Be sure to get a list of all the services the car has gone through and try to keep your target engine use under eighty thousand kilometers. Spares are available at the dealership or major stores, so you shouldn’t have any difficulties on that department.

Final thoughts:

If you need a good car that can get you places all around the country, the Bego is right for you. Put aside the need for frills and thrills and this car delivers in almost every aspect. Just look at most car rentals and travel agencies: their fleet is mostly Begos and that’s a great indicator.

Keep in touch as I review other cars and put my two cents on the matter. If you fancy any brand in particular, let me know.

New on the culinary scene in Costa Rica, the Underground Cooking Club is making waves with their unique class structure and monthly cultural events. Using Okra Restaurant in Barrio Escalante as their stage, the Underground Cooking Club creates a setting where people can learn, socialize and enjoy something different.

Founder, Chef Chandler Tomayko, is committed to quality. Each class is taught by a professional chef in a fully equipped classroom with all necessary ingredients provided. The completely hands-on system allows students to have the confidence to repeat learned skills at home. After cooking a delicious meal, students are ushered to the dining room where dinner is served and the socializing continues.

Last month upon her return from Oahu, Chef Chandler Tomayko hosted a Hawaiian Luau as the first of what is now a monthly cultural event. On February 25th, Okra Restaurant will once again open its doors to all those who want to celebrate cultural diversity.

The event: Boots, Beers and Bites will showcase Texan culture with free food samples, regional music, country line dancing and more!

Details for upcoming classes (menus, costs, dietary restrictions, etc) can be found on the Underground Cooking Club´s Facebook events page.

For additional information regarding private classes or reservations for upcoming cultural events, contact Chandler Tomayko below:

Chandler Tomayko
The Underground Cooking Club
Okra Restaurant, Barrio Escalante
Facebook.com/UndergroundCookingClub
undergroundcookingclub@gmail.com
8343-8575

Here’s Trisha’s question:

“The date of the Monsanto pull-out in Costa Rica was 2004; this 60 page paper was written in 2005. Does this all hold true for 2012 post-CAFTA which theoretically could’ve opened the floodgates for GMOs? As you well know, I am very concerned about this issue.”

Hello Trisha, thanks for your concern. The scope of the article was to highlight Monsanto’s departure in 2004, and a lot has happened since, but Monsanto still does not have an office in Costa Rica. This does not mean that the company’s products, including Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs), are not present in our country. The fight against the irresponsible use of transgenic crops, however, goes on.  Here is what is known:

The International Service for the Acquisition of Agri-Biotech Applications (ISAAA) is an non-profit organization dedicated to the advancement of biotechnology such as the GMOs pushed by Monsanto.  A search of their database of GMOs approved for use in Costa Rica reveals 17 transgenic cotton seeds and two soybean seeds, most of them manufactured by Monsanto.  Some of these seeds are pest-resistant, while others are Roundup Ready -meaning that you can spray herbicide on these soybeans and they will continue growing unperturbed.

The same ISAAA database reveals dozens upon dozens of transgenic crops approved in the United States. Alfalfa, Canola, Carnation, Corn, Linseed Flax, Melon, Papaya, Plum, Potato, Rice, Tomato, and the list goes on.  In Honduras, the controversial MON 810 corn is widely grown, while China has a few dozen GMOs approved.  These are some of the countries that employ greater transparency in their GMO crop reporting.

Outside of the ISAAA database, a Del Monte subsidiary was granted governmental permission to plant transgenic pineapple in Puntarenas last year.  The same groups that applied pressure to Monsanto moved in to block the GMO pineapple cultivation.  The leader of the movement, Fabian Pacheco argued that the approval was reckless, as it failed to guarantee that pollution and erosion would result from the transgenic pineapple crops.  Anti-GMO groups around the world called awareness to the situation, something that in the past worked against Monsanto’s surreptitious methods.

The Legislative Effort

Costa Rica  may not have an affinity for GMOs, but it also lacks legislation to regulate their cultivation.  That is bound to change soon, as the Frente Amplio political party has pushed for comprehensive legislation that would place tight controls on the use of transgenic seeds.  The legislative project is making its way through the National Assembly, although it has been pushed back eclipsed by other issues, such as the Transit Law, the Fiscal Reform plan, and the voting on whether to allow U.S. Navy amphibious assault ships (namely USS Iwo Jima) to dock in Limon for refueling.

Our country is also very interested in getting a head start on the signing of the Nagoya Protocol on Access to Genetic Resources.  A major part of this protocol authorizes governments to restrict and enforce the use of GMOs not only when they are suspect to cause environmental damage, but also when their importation causes negative impact on the local agricultural economies.

The Community Effort

Certain communities are moving faster than the legislative project when it comes to restricting GMO cultivation.  Eight municipalities have already resolved to ban transgenic crops, taking advantage of President Laura Chinchilla’s stance on giving autonomy to regional governments to implement sustainable measures.  Radio Santa Clara recently reported that several farmers in San Carlos, one of Costa Rica’s premier agricultural regions, have resolved to form unions against the use of GMOs.  These unions will soon demand the canton authorities to pass a resolution making their efforts official.

The University of Costa Rica publishes a series of circulars (PDF) that encourage farmers to forego the use of Roundup herbicide in favor of the old-fashioned and organic method of weed control: hiring additional workers to pull them with their bare hands.  It is important to note here that anti-GMO farmer unions like the ones forming in San Carlos aren’t limited to small farmers.  Large-scale farming operations are also getting involved and trying to figure out ways to implement organic principles in mass farming.  It takes a lot of hard work.

Informing the public about the nature and potential impact of GMO crops is another important aspect of the movement against irresponsible transgenic cultivation.  Revista Amauta and Rain Forest Radio are doing a good job in that regard.

In the hills of Santa Ana, overlooking the city of Escazu and its ritzy suburbs, construction crews from the National Power and Electricity Company (CNFL in Spanish) have begun work on the future Planta Eólica Valle Central (the Wind Power Farm of the Central Valley). When completed, this project is expected to produce 15.3 megawatts of energy among 17 wind-power generators that will bring electricity to almost 6,000 families.

The Wind Power Farm of the Central Valley is just one of the projects that government-sponsored companies like CNFL, ICE and others are rushing to complete in order to achieve Costa Rica’s goal of becoming a carbon-neutral nation by 2021. In the area of creating electricity from renewable sources, public utilities are looking at new hydroelectricity projects in Pirris, wind-power farms in Los Santos that will power communities in El Guarco and Desamparados, as well as geothermic plants in Garabito, Moin and Pailas.

The Precious Rare Earth

Each wind turbine and electricity generator installed for the purpose of producing clean energy in Costa Rica will have at least one thing in common: hundreds of pounds of rare earth, a precious mineral that is made into alloys for the manufacturing of components used in everything from lasers to magnets, and from electrodes to the screen displaying the article you are currently reading.

Wind turbines and heavy-duty generators can easily contain hundreds of kilograms of rare earth alloys, more than likely extracted via massive open-pit mining operations in China, a country that currently produces 95 percent or more of the world’s rare earth minerals. This fact puts China, a country that is currently enjoying close ties with Costa Rica, in an enviable position in terms of geopolitical power -perhaps at a great environmental cost.

The Rise of Rare Earth

Three centuries ago, Swedish scientists began to isolate and discover the first of seventeen rare elements in the periodic table. French and American scientists would later conduct research on the properties of the rare elements.

As it is often the case in many scientific discoveries, rare elements have played an important role in the arms race. It is estimated that the United States military is a major consumer of rare earth, as it can be found in optics, precision-guided munitions, advanced electronics, and more. The U.S. has been researching the application of rare earths for martial use since the Manhattan Project -which developed early nuclear weapon technology- in the middle of the 20^th century. Rare earth plays a crucial role in today’s modern armament, particularly in advanced weapons systems (PDF) such as the unmanned aircraft currently flying the unfriendly skies of Afghanistan and Iraq. For the record, Costa Rica also uses drone technology -for scientific purposes.

Rare earth elements have an important place in our ultra-modern lives. Think about self-cleaning oven technology, camera lenses, magnets, fluorescent lamps, superconductors, x-ray machines, etc.

Where to Find Rare Earth Minerals

Rare earth elements are fairly abundant in our planet, and just like many other minerals they are unevenly distributed around the planet. These elements can be extracted from alluvial sand deposits caused by the downstream flow of other elements, like water and lava, on the Earth’s magma (the top crust). Imagine all the geological changes that have occurred over millions of years; those changes increase the likelihood of widespread distribution of rare earth.

In countries like Australia, Brazil, India, and South Africa, rare earth has been extracted from sedimentary deposits. Rare earth production in those countries saw its heyday in the last century. In the United States, there is a massive rare earth deposit deep in the Clark Mountain Range of southeastern California. The Mountain Pass open-pit mine guaranteed American supremacy in rare earth production from the 1960s until the late 1980s. Since then, the U.S. has been greatly surpassed by China in this regard, due to depletion and the aggressive Chinese approach to open-pit extraction.

Afghanistan is a country that may be ripe for rare earth exploration. NATO security forces aren’t the only foreign interests combing the deserts and mountainous regions of the Graveyard Empire; the United States Geological Survey announced significant discoveries of rare earth deposits in the Helmand province just a few days after the tenth anniversary of the 9/11 terrorist attacks on American soil.

The Chinese Dominance of Global Rare Earth Production

Rough geological estimates indicate that China may hold between 35 to 40 percent of the planet’s rare earth reserves, yet she has exploited her Inner Mongolia mines relentlessly to produce the great majority of rare earth used in the world. There is a good chance that the rare earth elements used in the wind turbines and generators of our current clean energy projects come from China.

Rare earth exports have undoubtedly played a significant part in the meteoric rise of the Chinese economy in the last few decades. In the last two years, however, China has significantly scaled down its production and exportation of rare earth. Other countries have speculated that this drastic slowdown suggests strategic reserves and stockpiling in the face of rare earth depletion in other mines around the world and increasing demand. China has explained that she is curbing production to concentrate on anti-smuggling efforts, but other sources have declared that over-explotation has taken a huge ecological toll that the Asian colossus is secretly trying to contain.

Environmental Impact of Rare Earth Mining

Modern rare earth extraction calls for open-pit mining techniques. Some of the rare elements produce radioactive waste when refined, and such waste always finds a way to enter natural sources of water supply such as aquifers, lakes and rivers. The environmental impact of open-pit mining includes erosion, major changes to biodiversity, and non-radioactive contamination of groundwater.

The known cases of ecological disasters caused by open-pit mining of rare earth include radioactive waste-water spills in Mountain Pass, a refinery project in Malaysia that has been blamed for birth defects and leukemia in the local population, and a widespread disaster in Baotou, a barren Chinese city that The New York Times once described as a place where the air smells and tastes acrid and metallic.

Rare Earth in Costa Rica

The high levels of volcanic and fluvial activity in our country make her a likely candidate for rare earth deposits. In recent years, geological surveys published by the University of Costa Rica indicate the presence of rare elements, particularly around protected and agricultural areas in the skirts of the Poas volcano (PDF), extending out to Sarapiqui and even out to San Carlos (PDF). Prospecting and further exploration have not taken place.

Speculation regarding China’s possible intentions to extend her rare earth empire to Costa Rica were prompted by the announcement of a possible petroleum refinery plant for CNPC, the Chinese oil company that is owned by the government. Former President and Peace Nobel Laureate Oscar Arias was a strong supporter of the project, which in the end fell through due to complex financial disagreements and pressure from environmental groups. That was back in 2007, and it fueled fear from eco-activists that such a project would be a stepping stone for rare earth prospecting.  Oscar Arias would later nix the project.

In December 2011, China announced that instead of building a new oil refinery, her Development Bank would extend a loan to RECOPE to make improvements to its refinery in Moin, Limon. Fears of rare earth prospecting in Costa Rica can be taken with a grain of salt, as open-pit mining is not a welcome activity in our country, as evidenced by the high-profile Crucitas mining project case.

The Lucrative World of Rare Earth Investing and Trading

The importance of rare earth in the geopolitical stage makes it a very precious commodity that attracts the attention of investors and traders who are willing to plunge into the world of private markets. Unlike gold, silver and other metals, rare earth elements are not traded in public exchanges like the Chicago Board of Trade or the NYMEX. They are traded separately by element, but their pricing can be influenced by more than just market conditions. There are purity and source factors to consider.

Investing and trading in rare metals involves the exchange of kilograms of the element, although physical delivery is rare. The world of rare earth trading is highly speculative due to the many factors that can affect pricing. A kilo of near-pure Europium Oxide extracted from the polluted Baotou region in China is currently priced at $3,850. Europium is widely used in the manufacturing of Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) equipment in medical facilities around the world.

Respected financial analyst James Dines, author of a long-running newsletter for investors, called attention to the bullish patterns and emerging opportunities of rare earth investing back in 2009. Previous to that call, Mr. Dines had warned investors to turn abandon Internet holdings and look into raw materials and commodities like gold and oil. That was back in 2000. On his 2009 announcement, Mr. Dines highlighted the rare earth markets as extremely bullish, yet equally volatile. The factors that can make investing in commodities so lucrative -geopolitical instability, unprecedented demand, high speculation- are all present and accounted for in the rare earth markets.

So, the next time you turn on the lights in your nice home in Costa Rica, there will be a good chance that the electricity will come from a clean and renewable source of energy. There will also be a good chance that an unfortunate region of the world suffered ecologically for it, and that a savvy investor somewhere made a nice profit.

“I am an expat who has been living here for a few years, and I can’t seem to figure out Ticas. I just got dumped because I came back home too late from a bar in Escazu after watching the Super Bowl with my friends (go Giants!). She said that she tried calling me, but she should know by now that my Kolbi cell phone does not get a signal at the bar. This isn’t the first time something like this happens. I love Ticas, but I just can’t understand them. They either want me for my money or they say I’m not romantic enough. So now it looks like I’m going to be alone for Valentine’s Day…”

The letter from anonymous goes on for quite a bit, but the excerpt above gets to the heart of the matter and is sufficient to formulate an answer or two.

Hello anonymous, thank you for writing. Sorry about the breakup. Could it be that your ex-girlfriend is a Tom Brady fan by any chance? You know, he owns a beach home here with his better half Gisele Bundchen.

It is clear from your lengthy letter that you have a compelling desire to understand what goes on in the hearts of Ticas; a sentiment shared by Ticos, expats and sociologists at large. It is a subject of deep mystery and wonder, one that surpasses the enigma of the stone spheres you can find strewn about our country.

Sage advice here would be for you to look into switching your wireless service to one of the new carriers -and to also stop your inquiry before it drives you insane- but you are in luck. The stately newspaper La Nacion, which in the past has been unfairly labeled as icy and stuffy, recently decided to get all romantic and commissioned polling service Unimer to go door-to-door in search of what really makes Ticas and Ticos tick when it comes to dating and relationships. The article appeared on La Nacion’s Revista Dominical (Sunday Magazine), so you can head over there and read it now in Spanish, or keep reading the summary below in English.

What do Ticas look for in a man?

The empirical data collected by Unimer and published by La Nacion consists of a sample of 1,200 people with a margin of error of 2.8%. Some preconceived notions, such as the old adage that “a fat wallet trumps Don Juan anyday” were dispelled by the survey. Ticas value nothing more than loyalty and fidelity in a man, followed by a desire that a man be a good soul mate. Of the women surveyed, 29% wish for partners who are responsible and romantic, with economic viability placing a distant fourth on the list at 27%. Emotional maturity was mentioned by 14% of the Ticas polled, while physical attraction and parenting skills got 9% and 8% respectively.

The Ticos’ Turn

When it comes to what Ticos look for in terms of romance, the preconceived notion would be that they look like the reigning Miss Costa Rica Johanna Solano, or Jessica Perez (a Tica model who appears in the 2012 Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue). That was not the case: 34% of Ticos polled by Unimer expressed that they look for a good soul mate who is also faithful (30%). As far as homemaker skills go, 15% of Ticos answered that it is important to them, while economic stability was at the very bottom of the preferences.

Looking for Love in Costa Rica

There is aspect of romance that Ticos and Ticas seem to agree with: it is getting difficult. More than half of all women and men polled agreed that finding their perfect half has turned into a complex endeavor, and that young Ticas are more interesting to date than young Ticos.

The study published in La Nacion was not limited to cold hard data, An interview with organizers of Encuentros en Costa Rica revealed that Ticos are not quite ready for speed dating yet. On a Saturday night, an events hall with capacity for 200 people, was more than ample to accommodate the 40 women and 7 men (including a gentleman from Florida) who attended. These figures may seem surprising at first, but it’s important to note than in Costa Rica women outnumber men as The Costa Rica Star previously reported. There were two common bonds shared by the few women and men who turned up for the speed dating event: they were single and at least 40 years old. Not a young person in sight, which could be a cue for Encuentros Costa Rica to hit the online social networks to plan their next event. Still, the poll published in La Nacion indicated that 65% of Ticos and Ticas do not believe that age matters when it comes to love.

Tying the Knot

In a previous article, The Costa Rica Star looked at some divorce figures that seemed startling for a constitutionally Catholic country. La Nacion looked at marriage rates: 75% of marriages in 2011 took place before civil authorities, rather than at church. Not all Tico couples are getting married, either: marriage is definitely within the purview of the middle to upper classes, as 33% percent of couples who live in the lower social strata and who have only completed grade school prefer to live in common-law unions. When there is a child born to the couple, 64% believe that marriage is mandatory.

Old School Romance

There may be another reason why speed dating -a concept from the late 20th century- may not attract many romantic hopefuls: 37% of Ticos and Ticas still believe that men should ask women out and cover expenses associated with dating, such as meals in fancy restaurants and trips to the beach. To this very day, most Ticas expect romantic courtship and good manners from men.

Our lonely anonymous reader should not feel alone on Valentine’s Day. According to digital news daily Costa Rica Hoy, the bicycle and pedestrian-friendly organization Chepe Cletas is organizing a throwback event later today that is guaranteed to warm the hearts of older Ticos and give people like anonymous a chance to look for love in a very Tico and traditional fashion. The event is called “retreta“, and it serves as a social lubricant for people to engage in the ancient ritual of “coparse” (to couple) by walking along the pedestrian walkways of San Jose, exchanging glances and flirting. The retreta will begin from the National Park near the National Library. Couples will get to walk in one direction, while singles will get to walk in opposite directions so they can check each other out as they walk. Such Tico courtship rituals essentially disappeared during the sexual revolution in the 1960s.

The event starts at 6:00 pm, and will include live music. Happy Valentine’s Day.

Santa Teresa, Costa Rica. Feb 12th, 2012 – Over the past few days, the communities on the southern end of the Nicoya Peninsula, and the Gulf of Nicoya have suffered from a massive algae bloom that has wreaked havoc on local fish and wildlife. Some forms of the algae can produce toxins that prove harmful for humans if ingested, and can cause irritation of the eyes, respiratory system and skin. No one has ever died from direct contact with red tide, but you can become ill from ingesting contaminated shellfish. Bivalves and mollusks absorb the toxins, and if humans eat these, they can cause serious poisoning.

The algae blooms are caused by several different things; nutrient loading of the water, increased water temperatures, and even coastal upwelling. In Costa Rica, during the summer months there are frequently strong offshore winds that cause upwelling, this pulls up nutrient rich water from the depths, and combined with increased sunlight the perfect environment for phytoplankton is created. Agricultural runoff is another factor that really increases the occurrence and duration of algae blooms along the Pacific Coast.

The main river systems along the Central Pacific drain into the ocean between Jaco and Puntarenas, carrying all the pollution from the Central Valley with them. The increased use of fertilizers over the years has caused the coastal waters to become laden with nitrates and phosphates in extremely elevated concentrations. The phytoplankton thrive in these conditions, and as such, with decreased rainfall, the summer months have all the ingredients for some devastating red tides.

The Gulf of Nicoya is exceptionally hard hit as it is less affected by the strong currents that are present off the coast of the Nicoya Peninsula, with less water movement; the algae blooms stick around longer, and kill more and more fish. For the past few days, there have been dead fish on the beach as a direct result of the red tide. Dogs and birds end up eating the dead fish and become sick themselves, rarely dying, but they are definitely affected. The sight and smell of the red tide is disagreeable, and even feels weird on your skin.

There have been no reported deaths from direct contact with the phytoplankton themselves, but people have become ill and contracted respiratory illnesses from inhaling the stuff. Waves churn up the water, and the wind carries a mist of microscopic organisms over communities on the beach. The problem with red tide is that there are few solutions once a bloom has happened. The solutions lie with prevention, and that ties in with leading a more environmentally friendly life. With more and more agrochemicals being poured into the ocean every day, red tides are getting potent and longer lasting every year. It is a tremendous eyesore for communities that rely on tourism during summer months, a pain for local fishermen, and a nuisance for those that spend time in the ocean every day.

Environmental factors come into play in the formation of red tides, but the warming of coastal waters and overabundance of phosphates and nitrates in the ocean as well have eclipsed them. As the world’s population grows, and fisheries become more fragile than ever before, red tides could become a worrying factor for certain parts of the globe where aquaculture play a prominent role in food production.

So what’s the deal with Osa? Situated in the southwestern corner of Costa Rica it’s one of the most densely bio-diverse places on earth, overflowing with flora and fauna…blah blah blah I’ll let you Google the brochure and the sciencey statistical stuff. I will say it’s beautiful, I mean rub-your-eyes-in-wonder and pinch yourself kind of beautiful. It’s the kind of place that makes you wish you had cameras for eyeballs so you never miss a shot. It’s also far away, unplugged, and wet.

My trip in July of 2011 was to photograph a wedding and so I really had to be sure all my camera equipment and my laptop made it out and back or I was going to have some really unhappy newlyweds on my hands. (What compels a couple to get married at a hotel that is a two-hour boat ride from anywhere and how that is actually a good thing, is a topic for another article). After speaking with them about it, this is what my trip looked like: 5 hour drive from San Jose to the town of Sierpe, then a 2 hour boat ride along the Sierpe river and out to open ocean and on to the family’s private house next door to the hotel. Next door being a 30 minute hike through the jungle. Gulp. Fortunately I had some time to shop. I wish I had read Aaron Akley’s article on surviving the rainy season before that, but I did pretty well prepping myself.

My main concern was transporting my photo gear on the boat as well as through the jungle. I was budget-limited so I ended up buying a large rubber roll-top dry bag that was big enough to fit my fully-loaded camera bag, plus clothes on top. It also had detachable shoulder straps which made it useful for hiking. Your needs may vary as far as size and style but my bag was less than $100 (before int’l shipping, customs, taxes etc.). This bit of rubber awesomeness now travels with me a lot of places, since it’s big, tough and bright yellow (you know, to help prevent theft). I also spent a similar amount on a hard-sided bomb proof laptop case (also bright yellow). While I could have gone with a soft-sided roll-top bag for my laptop, I was concerned about bumps and pressure while loaded up with other travelers’ stuff.

Not all of you are going to be carrying several camera bodies, multiple lenses, filters, flashes and three trillion AA batteries. None of you should be carrying your laptops or tablets unless they are work-related. In large portions of the Osa Peninsula there aren’t even roads, let alone power, cell phone service or internet. For folks carrying smaller cameras or storing their mobile phones I recommend some less expensive light-weight roll-top stuff sacks. These aren’t heavy duty but they will do the trick and they are great for trips to the beach to keep your wallet, keys and cell phone free of water and sand. Check out the different sizes, as some might be big enough to fit SLR cameras with lenses attached (yay!). Since they are light-weight you can keep them on hand while you are out with your camera in case you get caught in rain. Although I didn’t get any, it wouldn’t hurt to pick up some silica packs (you know, the little pillows that come with your shoes) to put into the bags holding your electronics. If you plan on staying more than a couple of days then you may want to consider these.

When you go to Osa, be ready to get wet. There are no docks most places so your highly skilled boat pilots will get you close but you are still gonna be at least knee deep in water to just get to check-in. Speaking of pilots, you can fly to Drake’s Bay on the Osa Peninsula in under an hour on both Sansa and Nature-Air (residents and locals keep your eyes peeled for special deals), but that’s messing with my rugged tale of adventure and moisture control, so I’ll ignore it. You’ll wish you had listened to me and brought that waterproof camera as you zip along the river and the coast. Don’t worry the ride is too bumpy, and downright scary at the river mouth, to take decent pictures with a compact digital camera. I felt the same though, itching to have my camera in-hand but the sting of July rain in my face reminded me why it was packed away. Did I mention you would be getting wet?

Once you get over the wet and the fact that you can’t take pictures you have no choice but to settle down and just enjoy the ride. That ride can vary depending on which part of the Peninsula you are headed to, but trust me it will go by in a flash. All it’s worth it when the clouds break. Here I’ll prove it:

That’s the only picture your getting, guess you’ll have to go get your own. At least your equipment will survive the trip.

Once you’re on land you’ll find hotels here have a different standard of luxury than what you might find at your 22-star-all-inclusive-sterile-mega-resorts in Guanacaste. Luxury here is the fresh fruit shared with tropical birds chirping, waking up to fresh coffee, and a near tear-inducing view. Luxury in Osa is mosquito netting and a cold shower. Luxury here is a truly private beach where a weary photographer can plop into the gentle lapping waves after a jungle hike without a flashlight (next time I’ll pack 3 trillion and two AA batteries).

Health issues are something to keep in mind when heading to Osa. Communicate any allergies you have to your hotel and pack extra meds. Help is a quite a ways off so if you suffer from some chronic health issues or mobility problems then you may want to skip it (otherwise you have no excuse). There are also plenty of things that bite and sting so keep your eyes peeled and pack calamine and pain-killers.

Once you’ve soaked up all the requisite beaches and volcanoes go to Osa. Osa is a whole other level of appreciation of Costa Rica. It’s raw and wet and awesome and you need to go there. Immediately. The article is over. Go now.

The sun-kissed tomatoes shown in the picture accompanying this article were grown using principles of organic farming. This usually means that the use of synthetic fertilizers or pesticides has been avoided, that the crops have been rotated, that composting has taken place in the farm they are grown, or that other ancient techniques have been used from seed to harvest. They are not genetically modified, either. All these factors mean that agricultural biotech giant Monsanto did not make any money off those tomatoes.

Monsanto is a powerful multinational agribusiness enterprise based in the United States. Its headquarters office is in Missouri, but they have a presence in more than 50 countries around the world, but not in Costa Rica. In 2004, Monsanto unceremoniously withdrew from the country after succumbing to pressure from ecological and social organizations over the company’s Genetically Modified Organisms (GMO) business. Monsanto unsuccessfully courted the Abel Pacheco administration and the then-ruling Christian Social Unity, as well as the powerful National Liberation Party (PLN) to allow their GMO business to develop in Costa Rica; particularly its line of transgenic corn products like the YieldGard (MON 810) and the controversial MON 863 strain.

Monsanto GMO Corn

Transgenic products such as Monsanto’s MON 810 and MON 863 are developed with toxins that protect corn crops from diseases such as rootworm and other pests. This is a big marketing point for Monsanto: Corn farmers spend considerable time and money in eradicating pests and disease from their crops. Growing transgenic corn evokes visions of pesticide-free cultivation; something that farmers can turn into a selling point when presenting their products to consumers, and savings on pesticides that aren’t purchased and laid-off farmhands are also very attractive.

MON 810 and MON 863 have also been subject to scientific research that has shown great potential for harmful effects on the environment and the human health. Independent research has shown that consumption of MON 863 by laboratory rats caused negative effects to organs such as the heart, spleen and adrenal glands. Research funded by Monsanto has refuted such claims, and state-funded research studies in Australia, New Zealand and the European Union have determined MON 863 safe for human consumption.

Greenpeace activists and social groups in Germany studied the effects of MON 810 on the environment in 2009 and proved that the toxins released by the Monsanto product were efficient in eradicating organisms such as the corn moth, thereby affecting the delicate ecosystem created by corn fields. MON 810 was deemed environmentally disruptive by German legislators and banned from cultivation. It was this type of concern that lead Costa Rica to pressure Monsanto out of our country in 2004.

High-level Horse Trading

The latest turmoil surrounding Monsanto is unfolding in France, where President Nicolas Sarkozy has assured farmers that transgenic corn will not be grown on French soil. Monsanto and an alliance of agricultural biotech companies dedicated to the GMO business in Europe are currently clashing against farmers, grass-roots organizations and even governments. Despite the fact that MON 810 has been banned in several European countries, and that no farmer in Europe is even remotely interested in growing MON 863, Monsanto and other transgenic crop peddlers are unrelenting in their efforts.

The GMO crop business is highly lucrative and its profits are enjoyed by the most powerful, as evidenced in an embarrassing diplomatic cable revealed by WikiLeaks earlier this year. In 2007, agricultural groups across Europe began to fight Monsanto’s aggressive GMO campaign, borrowing a page from recent history in Costa Rica.  Craig Stapleton, a George W. Bush supporter and Ambassador to France at the time, wrote an amazing communique to his bosses at the State Department recommending what he thought America should do to protect the interests of companies like Monsanto in Europe:

“[The diplomatic corps in Paris] recommends that we calibrate a target retaliation list that causes some pain across the EU since this is a collective responsibility, but that also focuses in part on the worst culprits. The list should be measured rather than vicious and must be sustainable over the long term, since we should not expect an early victory. Moving to retaliation will make clear that the current path has real costs to EU interests and could help strengthen European pro-biotech voices.”

For the record, Stapleton was co-owner of the Texas Rangers baseball team with George W. Bush.

It is unclear exactly what the U.S. government could expect from conducting such a campaign, but Monsanto has a lengthy history of having ties to the Food and Drug Administration in the United States.

The Tico Position Against GMOs

The bulk of the research studies showing the potential harm of GMO products had not been released before Monsanto was pressured into leaving Costa Rica. The problem with GMOs is that they essentially work against the strong conservation vision that Ticos have adopted since the 1970s. The image of Monsanto infiltrating government and political channels to sell their products is certainly spine-chilling, and the GMO concept does not fit into Costa Rica’s plans for organic farming.

Organically-grown produce can be found just about anywhere in Costa Rica, from weekend farmers markets to places like the Finca Luna Nueva Lodge in San Isidro de Penas Blancas. Not all produce will be 100 percent organic; some farmers make sporadic use of store-bought fertilizers and insecticides or herbicides, and composting is not practiced at all farms. Some landowners who are new to the lucrative world of pineapple exports rush to plant and harvest without rotating their crops, and in a few years they are stuck with barren land where only cilantro will grow.

To be fair to Monsanto, some of their products can still be found in Costa Rica. Some farmers and gardeners may still use the popular Roundup line of herbicides, and some chemical fertilizers may be found here and there, but they aren’t widely used; they are rather used occasionally and very sparingly by small farmers. The sporadic use of Monsanto fertilizer or weed killer in very small amounts once a season will not cause damage if the other organic farming principles are used. There are, of course, organic alternatives like the old vinegar-salt combo herbicide and compost-made fertilizers.

The use of GMOs in mass farming operations, however, is a game-changer that not only goes against organic farming, but also against sustainability. Ticos do not wish to allow GMO cultivation in our lands because of their disruptive effects to ecosystems. There is a reason why insects, worms, bacteria and other bichillos flock to corn:  they need to eat, too. Nature sent those bichillos to the corn fields, and she knows why. In this regard, organic farmers know that a surge in pests and corn disease is a sign that they aren’t doing something right.

Monsanto is clearly no stranger to protests and resistance, but the fact that the powerful multinational company decided to completely pull out of Costa Rica is a testament to the Ticos’ vision of how our country and her precious ecological and agricultural resources should be treated.

To get the full story on why Monsanto GMOs are not grown in our soil, you may want to read the detailed report from Alexandra E. Tuinstra Gomez (PDF, 60 pages).  The Costa Rica Star values your input; please feel free to tell us how you feel about genetically modified crops. 

Official Websites
fefacr.org
facebook.com/fefacostarica
twitter.com/fefacr

Click here to see the league calendar.

While nobody is expecting that American football is going to replace soccer as the national sport anytime soon, it is undeniable that its popularity with Ticos has increased dramatically in the last few years.

Before 2008 it was uncommon to see American football being played anywhere in Costa Rica. And if anyone happened to spot one of these sporadic games, all they would see was a ragged group of friends playing what locals refer to as a “Mejenga” which is basically a free-for-all game played between friends with no referee, uniforms and minimal rules. The only piece of equipment used was a ball and most of the games consisted of touch or flag football while the crowd consisted of a handful of confused folks that happened to be passing by.

All of that changed in 2008 when a group of enthusiasts decided to band together and create the private league; American Football Association/Costa Rica Federation of American Football (FCFA) and organized the first American football season in 2009. It wasn’t an easy start by any stretch; most of the players were Ticos who had little or no previous experience, games were held in fields, the equipment was improvised and there was very little public interest in the sport. But what the league lacked in structure it more than made up in heart. The players trained hard and played enthusiastically.

In July of 2009 we saw the formation of the first official league; American Football Federation of Costa Rica (FEFACR). Even though the Costa Rican Institute of Sports & Recreation (ICODER) gave governmental backing to the new league at the time of its inception, it did not give the league international representation of American football in Costa Rica until November of 2010.

All of that hard work paid off for both leagues. By 2010 the games were being played in second division soccer stadiums, players had official uniforms and attendance was steadily rising during each game. 2011 brought more attention to the leagues. Even big sponsors like Gatorade started to cozy up to the FEFACR. Today American football is poised to infiltrate Costa Rican Main Culture. The Costa Rica Star caught up with rocker-turned-athlete Benjamin Chaverri and former New England Patriot’s player Ethan Kelley, both of the Tico Bowl and 1st Super Bowl of Costa Rica champions for the Santa Ana Bulldogs, and talked to them about the past, present and future of the game.

Benjamin Chaverri Lopez

CRS: What’s your position on the Santa Ana Bulldogs and how long have you been playing? 


I play Wide Receiver and special teams usually as a kick returner and have been playing for 2 years.



CRS: How did you start participating in American football?


I have always loved this game but never though I’d have a chance to play full contact American football so when I heard about the league I had no hesitation to join.



CRS: Where do the Santa Ana Bulldogs train? What does the training consist of?


Our field is in Rio Oro, Santa Ana. Practice consists on what we are doing that week or if we are getting ready for a game. We could be learning new plays and going through the mechanics of it all or we could be adjusting to a different game plan depending who we play that weekend, bottom line is we are constantly learning and growing which is fundamental for this game.



CRS: Do you get any sort of payment for playing in a team?


No, nothing at all we do this for the love of the game. Actually every player pays a registration fee to the FEFACR (American Football Federation of Costa Rica) which they in turn use to pay for the field we play on or anything else they need for the growth of the sport.



CRS: What are some of the most significant changes that you’ve seen in the last year? Do you feel like the sport has gained more popularity in recent times?


Definitely, the growth is something we all look forward to and as for the league itself the level of every team has constantly been growing. The FEFACR National Team was created last year and we won against Jaguares from El Salvador and a traveling team known as the Duo Sport Thundercats consisting of players from USA, Canada, Mexico, Puerto Rico, etc. The private league; CR All Stars/All Star Team from Costa Rica which involves both national and foreign players living in Costa Rica. We have defeated Panama on the two games we have encountered them. As for the Santa Ana Bulldogs, my team, we defeated the Guerreros from Nicaragua which were the Central American Champions.

I believe for a country that has had American football for approximately 3 to 4 years, compared to teams that have had it for more than 10 including Panama and Nicaragua we have come a long way and there is still a lot of ground to be covered. National media has been showing more interest and every once in a while you can see a summary of the games played on the weekend or a note on the newspapers and people are getting more interested in this game but it’s still hard to compete against soccer being almost a religion in this country.



CRS: What’s the hardest and most rewarding thing about playing American football?


American football is a contact sport and according to the ESPN list of the hardest and most physically challenging sports in the world it takes the third position just below Boxing and Ice Hockey. Some people just don’t know the strength of character and conviction it takes to play this especially if you do it for the love of the game and don’t get paid, worst case scenario you could severely injure yourself and require medical attention which lets be clear is not something you want as a player. Sometimes you get up in the morning feeling like you just got run over by a train and you still got to go on with the daily routine, work, college, family. People can never understand the kind of sacrifice or commitment we undergo.

But that is it, it’s what we do, we go out onto that field and give everything he have I don’t really know why, it could be a search for glory, satisfaction or just to prove something and make a statement. I think at the end of the day taking the field with my brothers, cause as bulldogs over the years we have become a pack, a fraternity, that’s all that matters. You know they have your back and you have theirs you will fight together for every yard and every down, you will block and push through anything that comes your way because you trust the men at your sides. I think for me the most rewarding thing about football is the discipline and strength of character that builds ups inside you when you know you belong to something different, something great.



CRS: What do you see happening with the sport of American football in Costa Rica in the next few years? What would you like to see happen?


I have hopes that the league will keep growing, every year it gets better. I hope that people will get more interested and sponsors will get more involved with the process. The FEFACR National Team has been invited to go play an international tournament. My hope is that as a league we do our part and whatever is accomplished there helps the growth of this sport.

Ethan J Kelley



CRS: I heard from Benji (player interviews above) that you actually played professionally in the States and even participated in a couple of Super Bowls. Can you tell me a little bit about this? What teams did you play for, what was the experience like?
 
I played 5 years in the NFL from 2003 to 2007. My first two years I played with the New England Patriots. I was fortunate enough to earn two Super Bowls with that team. My playing experience with the Patriots greatly changed the way I viewed and approached the game of American football. With the aide of great coaches like Bill Belichick & Romeo Crennel and players like Teddi Bruschi, Bobby Hamilton, Ted Washington, and Willie Mcginest. They transformed me into a student of the game.

After leaving the Patriots I played my last three seasons with the Cleveland Browns. With the Browns I was able to implement the knowledge and experience I had acquired with the Patriots. I played until injuries brought my career to an end. I had  3 knee surgeries in the span of 15 months. my career was shorter than I had intended I was blessed and thankful to have lived a dream.

CRS: Why did you move to Costa Rica and how did you end up coaching for the Santa Ana Bulldogs?

My wife’s friend Richard can be credited with getting us interested in CR. He was always coming down here for vacations and bragging. So we had to see for ourselves. Within the first few days or our trip we decided we liked it so much we decided to start “house hunting”. Ivo Henfling, realtor and owner of Go Dutch Realty, introduced us to what would become our dream property. Finding that house sealed the deal.
 
While planning our trip and doing homework on CR, we discovered there was an American Football Referees Association. I got in contact with Luis Ramirez (President of the American Football Referees Association (AAFAC) & Secretary of the American Football Federation of Costa Rica (FEFACR)). He organized a meeting between himself, Jose Lopez (Santa Ana Bulldogs coach and now my good friend) and I. During this meeting Jose offered me a coaching spot.
 
CRS: What’s it like training Ticos? How is it different (or similar) to training players in the US?

This is my first time coaching so it is hard for me to make that comparison. My approach to coaching is simple. First you get a feel for the person and find the best way to convey what needs to be taught. Then you determine what needs to be taught. You evaluate their strengths and weaknesses and reinforce and improve them accordingly.  It has been a learning experience for us all. I think the only hurdle I had coaching “Ticos” was the language barrier. I moved here speaking virtually no Spanish.
 
CRS: What’s it like coaching American football in a country that doesn’t give the sport the same attention as in the US? Do you feel like this has changed in recent times?

Although American football doesn’t get the attention it does in the US, the fact that American football is here in Costa Rica is such a thrill to me. I feel honored to be a part of it. I have observed that in recent years American football has gained more attention and I think it will continue to grow.
 
CRS: What’s the hardest and most rewarding thing about your job?

The hardest part for me is being away from my family. Sometimes the hours we work aren’t the most convenient. I live “where the devil lost his jacket” so getting to practices, events, and games is always a long trip. The most rewarding part is to see the players benefiting from the coaching and to see them having fun.
 
CRS: Benji was telling me a little bit about how that there were many dramatic changes in the league during the last year, can you comment a little on this? What do you see happening in the future of American football in Costa Rica? What would you like to see happen?

One of the biggest changes I see from last year is the location of where the games are played. Cuty Monge stadium is much more accommodating to the sport of American football in comparison to some of the other facilities that have been used in the past.

With the growing attention the sport is gaining in Costa Rica more sponsors and television channels have come into the scheme of things.  In general American football has began to develop a larger presence in Central and Latin America. People are taking notice and that helps give the sport a more optimistic future.  There are even flag football teams at some of the schools. This is introducing the sport at a younger age and insuring the sport has more life blood.

Ultimately I would like to see American football rival the popularity of soccer in Costa Rica. If American football could evolve to have something similar to the World Cup that would be the epitome of success for the sport.

It’s been almost a year and a half since the Transit Law was introduced in the National Assembly, and it has been a thorny and contentious issue for all involved ever since.  The different transit regulatory agencies were very busy this week with even more proposed changes, gaffes and developments that did little to advance passing of the law, but signaled the deep interest that certain groups and the public at large have regarding the possible impact of the law on the country.

One of the most curious salvos was launched by Rodrigo Rivera, Vice Minister of Transportation (MOPT), and reported by Radio Reloj.  He issued a rush communique to legislators about his concerns regarding the proposed provisions to allow the use of vehicles with right-hand side steering columns, commonly seen traveling the roads of East Timor, Japan and  several members of the Commonwealth of Nations.  Its is important to note that the proposed law does not intend to change the flow of traffic from the right side to the left; it merely aims to increase the variety of imported vehicles.

The Vice Minister also expressed concern over changes to the safety and emission testing standards, since the law proposes to limit such inspections to the year and make of the car.  The Vice Minister believes that all cars should be subject to RITEVE, including the brand new, 100 percent electric Nissan Leaf.  Other points of the memo point to worries about what he believes is lax speeding oversight.

The Ministry of the Environment Rene Castro is urgently trying to revive an initiative to implement the use of bio-fuels, hybird vehicles and electric cars, at least within the Metropolitan Area.  According to Radio Reloj, Castro wants to borrow a page from successful initiatives in Brazil and begin testing them in the next few weeks.  It is unclear whether the present Transit Law will limit the initiative, but some citizens are concerned that the government is dragging its feet with regards to Costa Rica’s goal of achieving carbon neutrality by 2021.

Rounding off the transit and transportation issues this week were protests by Preserve the Planet over the proposed law’s possible impact on air quality, taxi driver unions petitioning to raise the minimum fare to 1,000 colones, and the confirmation by the Ministry of Transportation that Director Cesar Quiros will not be rehired after an embarrassing incident whereby thieves broke into a Transit Police warehouse and made off with dozens of weapons.

Smoking Ban in Public Places Stopped by Libertarians

It seemed like smooth sailing for a new amendments to existing anti-tobacco provisions at the National Assembly this week, until representatives from the Libertarian Movement stepped in to cite constitutional issues.  According to Radio Reloj, the proposed amendments, which aim to align Costa Rica with an anti-smoking framework established by the World Health Organization, limit certain freedoms guaranteed by our Constitution.  The law is now headed to Sala Cuarta (Constitutional Hall) for review.

Fiscal Reform Plan Breaks Up Strategic Political Unity

A coalition of political parties that intended to take on the powerful National Liberation Party (PLN) at the legislative level seems to be splintering over their opinions on the matter of Fiscal Reform.  Such was the sentiment made apparent by declarations from leaders of the Christian Social Unity and Citizen’s Action political parties this week, according to digital news daily TicoVision.  They are concerned that ideological interests are getting in the way of not only approving Fiscal Reform, but also their ultimate goal to limit the power of the Goliath PLN.

Proposed Taxes on Casinos and Sportsbooks Halted at the National Assembly

The Fiscal Reform plan does not include taxes on gambling and online wagering; that falls under the purview of the proposed Law Number 17551.  Proponents of the law have indicated that such taxes would net windfall revenues to benefit organizations such as the Red Cross and Hogares CREA -a national drug rehabilitation program.  Legislators from all parties, however, declined to hear further motions on the proposed law until representatives from the groups that stand to benefit come forward and explain their plans to utilize the funds.

TicoVision reported that one proposal from a Libertarian legislator consists of utilizing gambling revenue to ensure that Guanacaste, Limon and Puntarenas are prepared to host the FIFA Women’s World Cup, slated to play in Costa Rica in just two years.

ECONOMY

A previous article appearing in The Costa Rica Star called attention to some movers and shakers that are making waves in the national business sphere.  The powerful Edgar Zurcher and John Keith partnership announced this week that a new PriceSmart shopping club will be opening in La Union in Cartago as early as next summer.  Should the plan come to fruition, this will be the sixth PriceSmart in Costa Rica, and the 30th in Central America and the Caribbean, according to a company press release that appeared in Dow Jones’ MarketWatch.

Investors reacted positively to the news, as shares of PriceSmart (PSMT) on the NASDAQ rose by more than a percentage point on Friday, with a respectable trading volume.  PSMT has become a day trader’s delight, as over the last five years the stock has climbed from about $15 to over $70, and the company has doubled its dividend payments ever since -even during the height of the global financial crisis.

New Trade Agreements with Canada and Russia Considered

The free trade agreement (FTA) between Costa Rica and Canada dates back to 2002 and has suffered from a lack of modernization and the global financial crisis.  El Financiero reported that the Ministry of Commerce is reviewing the free trade agreement to stimulate exports to Canada, particularly in the areas of agriculture and textiles.  A similar situation could be seen with Russia in the future, as La Prensa Libre reported that the Chancelor’s office is in talks with the Kremlin to eliminate visa requirements between the two countries.

Penny Stock Swindler Convicted in Florida

Jonathan Curshen used to operate two financial securities trading firms in San Jose, Red Sea Management and Sentry Global Securities.  According to a report published by Sunshine Slate, a digital news magazine that covers Florida affairs, Curshen and and a partner in crime named Montgomery allegedly used the San Jose firms to engage in a series of unsavory fraudulent practices, including unabashed stock promotion and manipulation, securities fraud, and money laundering.

Several American law enforcement agencies were involved in the investigation of the deceitful operations, which included flying in bags of cash via private jets landing at the Tobias Bolanos Airport.  The conspirators face sentencing of up to five years in prison.

Rice Growers Demand Safeguards Against Imports

The National Rice Corporation (CONARROZ) is calling upon the Ministry of Commerce to enact a safeguard provided by the World Trade Organization (WTO), at least momentarily, to stop the onslaught of cheap imported rice.  CONARROZ is a trade group that represents rice farmers and processors, who claim that free trade agreements are essentially killing their crops.  Low-quality rice imports from Asia are favored by consumers who frequent discount stores.  Source: Informa-tico.com

Positive Reaction to Electronic Payment and Deposit Methods

In a previous article, The Costa Rica Star reported on a plan by the Central Bank to stimulate the use of electronic wallets, a plan that would enable consumers to conduct simple banking operations without a bank and by means of mobile text messaging.  This week Revista Summa featured a comprehensive report that indicates retail banks are trying to get ahead of the Central Bank by offering new mobile applications and SMS banking offering.  The Banco Nacional mobile app includes a cool augmented reality feature that points pedestrians and motorists to the nearest ATM using a smartphone camera.   Near Field Communications, a technology that allows retail payments with little input from mobile users, may soon be adopted as well.

The Central Bank is also stimulating electronic banking transactions by increasing the interest rate paid on sovereign debt instruments.  As a way to combat the growing deficit, the Central Banks is now paying up to 7.2 percent interest on long-term electronic certificates of deposit, intended to mature at three years maximum.  The minimum investment is 100,000 colones, about $200.  Source:  La Nacion

HEALTH

Diario Extra reported on La Caja’s plan to combat the low number of specialists in public health institutions.  The growth of affordable private medical care options and medical tourism is prompting some of the most talented specialists to move into private practice.  Not everything was good news for public health, as digital news daily El Pais reported on the plans to close the old public hospital in Grecia, a growing canton in the Alajuela province.  Grecia is home to many private practitioners and a burgeoning population of foreign residents.  Later in the week, protests against the possible closure took place near Grecia’s Central Park.

The flu and other respiratory diseases caught the attention of many news media outlets that reported on a national shortage of flu vaccines.  La Nacion warned against the shortage of vaccines in public health clinics and even private drugstores, while La Prensa Libre pointed out that an increased number of fatal pneumonia cases were reported last year.  Costa Rica is hardly the only country to experience public health issues with regards to respiratory diseases.  The World Health Organization has already warned about epidemic and pandemic conditions of such diseases, and vaccine laboratories can hardly keep up with worldwide demand.

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

The unidentified strange buzzing and rumbling noises in Costa Rica continued earlier this week, and digital news daily Costa Rica Hoy reported that volcanologists and seismic experts at the OVSICORI could not associate geological activity with the loud noises reported over the weekend.  Wired Magazine reported that the Turrialba and Poas volcanoes are hardly the only ones with significant activity in Central America and the Caribbean.  The Fuego and Santiaguito volcanoes in Guatemala are also acting up.

Costa Rica Slips a Notch Down on the Environmental Performance Index

Yale University reported that our country is getting very high marks on forestry, biodiversity, habitat and overall environmental health, but is lagging behind Switzerland and Norway in certain agricultural and fishery aspects.  Costa Rica is now the fifth strongest environmental performer in the world, while countries that are heavily exploiting their natural resources -like South Africa and Iraq- are the among the weakest performers in this aspect.

Romanian Hackers Nabbed Over Credit Card Cloning Scheme

The Office of Judicial Investigations (OIJ) captured two Romanian nationals who are suspected of conducting a sophisticated skimming operation in which they installed tiny hidden cameras and magnetic strip readers to capture information and clone credit and debit cards. The suspects were apprehended after OIJ mounted a counter-surveillance operation in Escazu, Pozos de Santa Ana, Sabanilla, and Tamarindo according to La Nacion.

Tree-Planting Initiative Moves to Brazil

Pro skater Ryan Sheckler did a lot more than cause a commotion during his recent visit to Costa Rica.  The popular extreme athlete was also involved in a replanting campaign undertaken by shoe manufacturer etnies.  Sheckler planted a tree in the Maleku rain forest reserve, an area located northeast of Lake Arenal.  The region was robbed of its natural resources by greedy lumber industrialist in the early to mid 20th century.  The Maleku indigenous tribe suffered immensely until the government stepped in to conserve the area.  The etnies campaign, named Buy a Shoe, Plant a Tree, managed to plant more than 30,000 trees in the area.  With its Costa Rica mission accomplished, etnies is now targeting Brazil.

Testing of Free Wireless Broadband Initiative Begins in San Jose

On Wednesday, February 8, the Wireless Costa Rica initiative quietly began its testing phase in San Jose.  From the old railway station east of the National Library and south to the Judicial Courthouse Complex, Internet users can freely connect to a 512 Kbps wireless connection.  Source:  TicoVision

SPORTS

Just as the qualification matches for the FIFA World Cup in Brazil heat up, the National Team is considering its options now that record number of Tico players are playing abroad, according to Box Score News.  The third qualifying round will begin soon, with Costa Rica looking to come away victorious in a group that includes Guyana, El Salvador and CONCACAF powerhouse Mexico.

Coaches Pinto and Wanchope will debut a new lineup during a friendly match against Wales at the end of the month.  The match is in remembrance of Gary Speed, a legendary player who represented Wales like no other had in the past.  Gary Speed tragically took his own life in 2011, and the Wales National Team asked Costa Rica to replay a match that took place years ago when a young Gary shocked the world with his abilities in his international debut.

Women’s International Beach Volleyball Tournament

The Continental Cup of Beach Volleyball is underway in Central America, and Costa Rica is getting the better half.  The women’s teams from nine other Central American and Caribbean nations will be playing in Cobano, Malpais and Santa Teresa, while the men’s teams get to play in Nicaragua.  The Tico teams have a lot riding on this competition, as it also serves as an Olympic qualifier.  Source:  Box Score News.

LIFESTYLE AND ENTERTAINMENT

In a previous article examining the potential growth of the local film industry, The Costa Rica Star covered director M. Night Shyamalan’s encounter with a jumping pit viper while filming After Earth, starring Will Smith and his son Jaden.  Since that time, Shyamalan’s has been updating his Twitter feed with more pictures of critter encounters and the joys of working in the cloud forest microclimate of San Carlos.  After Earth may be the biggest production since Jurassic Park, but it isn’t the only film industry event happening in Costa Rica now.  La Nacion reported that the latest television commercial for the Amazon Kindle Tablet recently wrapped up filming in Playa Flamingo in Guanacaste.  Fans of the teen supernatural Twilight film franchise had a chance to schmooze last night with Bronson Pelletier and Leah Gibson at the Corobici Hotel in La Sabana, according to Costa Rica Hoy.  Pelletier is known for his werewolf character in Twilight, while Gibson plays a vampire.

Tica Models Make Headlines

Online sports daily Bleacher Report released is predicting that Jessica Perez is a strong candidate to appear on the cover of the upcoming 2012 Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Edition.  Jessica has modeled for Abercrombie & Fitch, Old Navy and many others.  In a sad bit of news, the smoldering Stephanie Arias, who is a popular lingerie model in Latin America, revealed to gossip site Tia Zelmira that she is the recipient of PIP breast implants and is worried about her options.  Costa Rica Hoy reported that La Caja has surgically removed the dangerous implants from 34 Ticas thus far.

Roller Derby Ticas Look for Fresh Blood

“This isn’t for crybabies” declares Siouxsie Wheels, a member of Panties Dinamita, a group dedicated to the advancement of the roughhouse sport of roller derby among Ticas.  You may see them skating along Paseo Colon on Sundays, when it is closed to vehicular traffic, or the skating rink and track in La Sabana.  In a feature article in the online Derby Life publication, Vanessa “Dee Spies” Keen recounts her trip from Tamarindo to San Jose to join the league and roll with the girls.

Puntarenas Carnival off to a Shaky Start

The Carnaval de Puntarenas got underway this weekend after a slightly tense situation in which officials from the Health Ministry would not issue the necessary operational permits.  At the 11th hour the authorities relented and the festivities began with a beauty pageant.  The traditional Tope (equestrian parade) takes place this Saturday afternoon, followed by a night of live music and dancing.  The weather promises to be ultra-hot and sweaty, and the bus line operators have promised to step up their service to Puntarenas this weekend.

It all began a couple of years ago when the New Economics Foundation, a European think-tank based in London, released its annual Happy Planet Index report.  That report takes into account individual perceptions, ecological conservation, sustainability efforts, and social welfare to measure the happiness of a nation.  The purpose of the Happy Planet Index is to show that happiness is not limited to Gross Domestic Product and per capita income.  Costa Rica was ranked number three in 2006, and number one in 2009.  The premise of a slowly developing Third World nation being the happiest in the world proved intriguing, and it bolstered the New Economics Foundation’s position that being green and peaceful is better for the soul of a nation than solid infrastructure and high salaries.

ICT took advantage of the media focus created by the Happy Planet Index report and thus the Million Dollar Gift of Happiness idea was born.

The Happy Partnership

Instead of taking on production of the campaign on their own, ICT’s executives partnered with esteemed American advertising agency 22squared.  Based in Tampa and Atlanta, 22squared is hardly a stranger to tourism marketing.  The agency is responsible for the successful Visit Orlando campaign, and they also count Marriott Hotels and Resorts as a client.  Costa Rica is 22squared’s first sovereign client.

The campaign officially started on October 6 of last year and ended last week.  As expected, 22squared and ICT highlighted Costa Rica’s natural beauty and the opportunities for relaxation and adventure, but what made the campaign unique from the start was the emphasis on the use of social media platforms. 22squared did a good job getting people excited about exploring our country through print and digital media, but the focus was on online social networking.  Placing the concepts of happiness next to the idea of a million dollars on the campaign’s tagline and slogan was particularly clever.

Strategic Use of Facebook Engagement

22squared and ICT did not simply place a few ads here and there to attract followers to the official Facebook page.  They reached out to the social media netizens who they thought could use a vacation, another astute idea.  People tend to express their moods and emotions on social networks, which might be a reason why Ticos thrive in the social media sphere.

Allan Flores, our Minister of Tourism, made it clear that he wanted to market Pura Vida, and the rest was largely up to 22squared.  Their chosen social media platform, Facebook, contained many cool features that attracted over a hundred thousand followers during the weeks of the campaign.  It is a highly visual endeavor, complete with dozens of appealing photos and videos highlighting all the cool activities that make up a truly happy vacation.  To create a sense of community and continuous engagement, 22squared encouraged followers to share items of interest such as vacation stories and tips, as well as photos and videos.

Choosing Winners

The campaign wasn’t all about marketing Pura Vida; it was rather a way to find the right candidates, those who could use some happiness in their lives.  This is where 22squared truly shined, as the chosen winners had a thriving social network that allowed the campaign to grow organically.

The chosen mascot of the Million Dollar Gift of Happiness is another winner: an adorable and perennially laid-back sloth, perhaps based on Buttercup, a Tico female sloth that is one of the most photographed in the world.  Choosing a Manuel Antonio sloth as a mascot was quite timely; as online interest in the cute arboreal mammals has increased considerably in the last few months.  The Costa Rica Star reported on a sloth orphanage and sanctuary in Cahuita around the same time the campaign was heating up, and Hollywood actress Kristen Bell recently suffered an on-camera meltdown brought on by cuteness overload when a sloth was the special guest at her birthday celebration.

22squared also capitalized on the ongoing happiness of two would-be newlywed couples and their brush with media attention.  A couple from Kentucky appeared on the popular Anderson Cooper show to be awarded a vacation after the bride fainted during her proposal.  The episode was recorded on video and had already gone viral by the time Brittany and Cameron were picked as winners.  About a month later, the Costa Rican government released its 2011 tourism figures, which posted strong annual growth, and The Costa Rica Star reported on the campaign.  Less than two weeks later, a Miami couple won a vacation package after Brian McGuinn threw his wife’s wedding ring in the trash by accident.  Brian enacted the “needle in the haystack” expression and methodically waded through tons of garbage to get his wife’s wedding ring back.  Their award was announced on television by a CBS network affiliate in South Florida.

Success and Room for Improvement

Compared to the tourism marketing campaigns of countries such as Colombia and Peru, the Million Dollar Gift of Happiness was a simple affair -yet extremely effective.  It was rather light on Twitter engagement, an interesting fact that echoes the social media usage patterns in Costa Rica, where Facebook is king and Twitter plays second -if not third or fourth- fiddle.

The work performed by 22squared was astounding, but the ending was a little abrupt.  ICT could have further capitalized on the campaign by keeping it alive with fresh content and more active engagement, something which has subsided as of late.  If anything, ICT should have been prepared with lots of tourism-related content to keep riding the social media momentum realized by 22squared.

A step in the right direction is EnviroMixer, ICT’s first step into the world of mobile app publishing and marketing.  With EnviroMixer, iPhone and iPad users can mix the sounds of toucans, howler monkeys and other native species with atmospheric backdrops of volcanoes, rain, crashing surf, or whale calls.  The mixes can be shared online.  Efforts such as EnviroMixer can go a long way towards maintaining interest in Costa Rica as the ultimate tourism brand.

The Pursuit of Happiness; Its Detractors and Naysayers

Happiness isn’t always contagious.  There are those who disparage the Million Dollar Gift of Happiness campaign and the Happy Planet Index as gimmicky, particularly since happiness isn’t specially quantifiable by scientific methods.  Some say that well-being is far from empirical and highly subjective.  Others get straight to the point, calling attention to our suffocating bureaucracy, circus politics, growing crime figures, low salaries, the unhappy lives of Nicaraguan immigrants, sketchy highway infrastructure, dwindling quality of public health, dismal local television programming… the list could go on and on.

The Happy Planet Index gets it right: how people interact with Gaia (the living Earth) is a vital aspect of well-being. Happiness doesn’t just happen to Ticos; it is rather earned at a sloth-like pace. Costa Rica is a giving nation, and Ticos love her for it, but the happiness she bestows must be cultivated and embraced. Writing for Psychology Today, psychiatrist Judith Lipton, M.D. has set out to investigate the mystery of Tico happiness. As the Million Dollar Gift of Happiness campaign was in full swing, she wrote that life in Costa Rica is “a little more like the South Bronx than Marin County.” A fair analogy, and she continues by writing that: “Yet people are happy here. I am happy here!”

Dr. Lipton isn’t the only one happy. Consider our own author Nadine Hays Pisani, who is Happier Than A Billionaire and has eloquently written about it. Or Steve Murphy, the Canadian man who recently hit a lotto jackpot worth millions; his first thought was coming here on vacation.

The construct of happiness is elusive when it is individualized to extremes.  George Washington explained it better:

“It is the peculiar boast of our country, that her happiness is alone dependent on the collective wisdom and virtue of her citizens, and rests not on the exertions of any individual.”

The dusty road ahead seemed to never end, twisting and turning amidst the lush forests of Costa Rica’s southern region –for me, a new country altogether. The sun was up directly above us, shining with unforeseen intensity; the warm air wrapped around my skin, a thin layer of moisture covered my face, seats rattled all around me, the blunt sound of metal crashing against metal echoed throughout and pierced my ears and none of it mattered; it meant nothing. It would be the culmination of months of organization, the search for the origins of Jirondai.

The journey, however, would not be brief or simple. Easily six hours away from San José our destination, Limoncito, can only be accessed during the dry months, when the heavy, unforgiving rains take a break. Guided by the mighty Terraba, one takes up the long, winding road towards Rey Curré and turns left, crossing the imposing river and deepening farther into the green, irregular terrains of the south. The struggling diesel engine spewed smoked as it rumbled up the hill, the vast space to my left dominated by the La Amistad National Park and to my right, hidden between yellow oak trees, my quest’s humble end.

First, though, our stop was San Vito after indulging in the traditional Juego de los Diablitos, a representation of the battle against the conquering Spaniards. Locals dressed in colorful masks and took turns in fighting the invaders, simply another local with a heavy, cumbersome bull costume, with energetic body slams, shouts and taunts. Their bodies are fueled by cups brimming with Chicha and the memory of brutal times of the past.

After the ceremony ended, our excitement turned entirely on reaching what the next morning would bring: the native Ngöbe community in Limoncito, just a few miles from San Vito. Yielding to fatigue, the sun’s never ending onslaught and a few too many Chichas, I crashed right into my bed in the humble and respectable Rino hotel in the heart of San Vito. Strangely I couldn’t close my eyes.

What is there to expect when your expectations themselves are so high? The fear of disappointment, in them or in us, was far too great. A question roamed in my mind: would their reality justify their beautiful music? Perhaps their every day struggles are far too much for all of us to cope with.

Our bus slowed down to a halt next to a river. I had to pause for a moment; the dangling bridge moving from side to side with the whispers of the wind sent chills up my spine. Rusted wires, cracked wood and a thirty-foot fall added to the excitement, to the risks worth taking in life. Children below, cooling off in the banks of the river, screamed with joyous tones, innocent and playful, warning me of the possible fall. A familiar voice, one I had gotten to know earlier, reminds me of the four that had fallen in that bridge. What great news!

It is Alexis “Unchi” Rodriguez: a proud Ngöbe. His walk is confident; his smile is radiant, contrasting with his chocolate skin and pitch-black hair. Though not a tall man, his presence can be felt from a distance. He is the creator of Jirondai, a man of vision, of determination and unseen creativity. Finally, I have arrived. It was time to know and understand how simple can be the origins of art.

Confidently, he overtook our group and walked with a brisk pace across the bridge, rendering most of us embarrassed with his dexterity and comfort, then led us across a rugged path to a house, not his, but the source of his inspiration. Ngöbes are proud of their culture, their goal is to preserve their history through teaching but still Alexis takes his endeavor as one of learning and not commercial, which is why a visit by outlanders is handled with care. For Ngöbes, it is more important to highlight the political struggles they have endured in order for their people to be recognized as autonomous. Determined to get his message across, he led us up a steep hill where the ninety-eight year old Cacique, Pedro Bejarano, awaited for us.

The house around him was basic, if we redefine the word. Corrugated metal covers him and his family in summer but it’s not a safe bet during winter; the weakened wooden frames sometimes creak to rhythm of powerful gusts of wind, the dusty soil below is the only floor they have known, it has become one with their bare feet, no bathrooms nearby, no water nearby, they take from nature and they give back to nature, the circle of life in these forsaken regions. I looked around and only found silence.

No one wanted to believe this is where Jirondai originated. But it is.

Before Pedro began to tell us his story, he showed us his room, where he looks for inspiration: four basic walls, a space no bigger than a king-size bed, a single light bulb illuminating the entire structure, ragged blankets cover him at night, the warmth of human contact more effective as they all sleep together.

Blind but his eyes are still passionate. Weakened by the brutal onslaught of time, but still his stance will be proud to end of his days. He, aided by his walking stick, stood in front of us and told us his story. His raspy voice resembled the serene howling of the wind and the imposing, feared growl of the jaguar; it was passion, it was inspiring alas it was all too real.

From him, and all around, is where Unchi has found the determination to carry on, until the day he and his tribe are recognized as who they are, Ngöbes, Costa Ricans, the same as you and I, different as every single person on this planet.
Jirondai is not just music: it is history guarded in every track.

“Indios are brothers of nature, are brothers of everyone, we are brothers of the snake, brothers of the birds, we are brothers of Mother Earth.”
P. Bejarano.

Unchi’s creation translates the Ngöbe reality into something we can all understand, into the music that can haunt us for hours, that makes us wonder: where did all of this come from? The mesmerizing vocals, combined with a fusion of talented musicians from around the globe, the crude, authentic origins of their lyrics and, last but not least, the reality that surrounds them, created one of the greatest musical projects in Costa Rica.

The six hours on a noisy, uncomfortable bus, the heat, the dehydration, the slight tremble in my hands as I clinched to the wobbly bridge, the humbling trip into reality, hidden amidst trees, rivers and weakened houses, it was all worth it. This is Jirondai.

“OMG, what is this 23% Costa Rica tourist tax?”

Hello Stacy, thanks for your question.  That 23 percent you saw on the receipt from the restaurant does not entirely represent taxes.  Only 13 percent of the meal price was assessed on value-added taxes (Impuesto al Valor Agregado, or IVA in Spanish).  The remaining 10 percent was allocated to the waiter’s tip.  It looks like the restaurant did everything correctly, particularly if it itemized and indicated the IVA tax and tip separately on the bill.

What the law says about taxes

There are 17 different taxes that some Ticos could reasonably expect to pay at some point in their lives.  Here’s a list of the different taxes, and some of them will contain links to previous relevant articles that have appeared in The Costa Rica Star.

-Wireless spectrum tax, levied on communications
-Airport exit
-Aircraft, vehicle and vessel
-Casinos and gaming parlors
-Foreign banks and financial institutions
-Alcoholic beverages (this is built into the retail sales price)
-Soft drinks and cosmetic soaps
-Value-added sales tax (IVA)
-Selective consumption
-Real estate transfer
-Income and earnings
-Profits and capital gains
-Aircraft, vehicle and vessel transfers
-Capital gains on financial instruments
-Luxury real estate
-Fossil fuels
-Fiscal stamps (timbres) for the benefit of educational and cultural programs

The current IVA tax rate, 13 percent, may be raised to 14 percent in the near future as part of the Fiscal Reform plan proposals that have been hotly debated at our National Assembly for about a year now.  The assessment and collection of some of the taxes assessed above are also slated to be modified by the Fiscal Reform plan.

As you can see from the list above, Stacy, there is no such thing as a “tourism tax.”

What the law says about tipping:

The 10 percent tip is authorized and regulated by Law Number 4946, known as the Ley de Propinas (PDF).  In essence, the law states that 10 percent of all sales on meals and beverages at bars and restaurants should be set aside as tips.  The way these tips are collected differs from one establishment to another.  At tourist hotspots like Jaco, Quepos and Tamarindo, establishments tend to itemize IVA and tips on their sales slips in the spirit of transparency and information.  Businesses that heavily cater to tourists are more likely to be under the close scrutiny of the national tourism board (ICT), and thus ensure that their patrons are well informed about how their monies are being collected.

The tip and tax collection process is handled differently outside of tourist establishments.  At your neighborhood soda or coffee shop, you are still being charged 13 percent IVA and a 10 percent tip, although it is not itemized.  Many retail stores, bars and restaurants simply adjust their pricing accordingly, and the wait staff collects their tips at the end of the day or on their payday according to the sales receipt.  Some waiters, waitresses and bartenders split the tips collected among themselves to compensate for those days in which some did not sell as much as others.  Food service and hospitality workers should be paid a minimum daily wage, and contributions to La Caja should be deducted and matched by their employers.  This is the way it should work, but unfortunately one cannot expect that it will take place everywhere.

Tipping Customs

Tipping out-of-pocket in Costa Rica is entirely up to the patron.  Tipping collection and disbursements fall under the responsibility of the employer, but it doesn’t hurt to tip service workers a little extra if you feel like they deserve it.  It helps to know that once the bill is paid, the waitress or waiter will receive their tips and that the tax will be paid.  Itemizing on the sales slip makes sense, but many Ticos don’t feel like doing math after a nice meal, or after a few drinks, and thus enumerating tips and taxes is not common outside of touristy spots.

With all the above in mind, one must always keep in mind that some tourist establishments tend to be very pricey.  A meal for two or four diners at a restaurant within a luxury beach resort can easily run over $100, so adding 13 percent IVA and 10 percent tip will make anyone’s eyebrows raise a bit.  For people like Stacy we recommend asking if the prices on the menu include IVA and tip before placing an order.  At other lesser known -yet very recommended- tourist locations, the prices are far more reasonable.

There may be multiple firewalls between you and the Internet. I have worked in secure facilities where my badge granted me access to the building. The same badge determined which floors I could access, and then what rooms I could access on that floor. The inbound firewall on the router determines what traffic can enter the local network. The inbound firewall on the device determines the traffic allowed to pass to the device. For example, you have an computer on your local network that is a Web server for the external world. The router traps all incoming HTTP requests and directs them to the correct internal server, without telling the outside world the actual identity of the server. The external Web server accepts traffic from the external world, and the local network traffic. There may be other computers on the local network that host a Web server, but they block all traffic not coming from the internal network. Another example, the router blocks all requests for printer services, but the firewalls on the local network computers, with shared printers, only accept requests from the local network.

The outbound firewall determines what services on your computer are allowed to pass to the network. The outbound firewall often allows you to determine which applications are allowed to access the network. For example, you may allow a VPN service to access the network from your computer. At the same time, the router has to allow you to make VPN connections to an external VPN server. What happens if you accidentally downloaded a malicious application that wants to infect other computers on your network, or turn your computer into a spam server. The outbound firewall can block these applications from accessing the network.

The early firewalls only offered inbound protection. Outbound firewalls came later, as a way to protect the network from internal threats. Thus, Windows XP only offers an inbound firewall. Windows Vista and Windows 7 have both inbound and outbound firewalls. Linux has offered both firewalls for many years before Windows adopted an outbound firewall. Smartphones and tablets are a problem, as many do not have any firewall. Since I don’t own an iPhone, iPad, or iPod Touch, I can’t speak about these devices. However, recent Internet news about unauthorized modifications to SIM cards suggest that they do not. Plus, a Google search for iPhone and iPad firewall apps returned a lot of references, but no apps.

Android phones and tablets are harder to qualify, as to whether or not they are running a firewall. As a derivative of Linux, the Android kernel (the program that manages the device) does support IPtables. IPtables define the rules used by the kernel to filter network traffic. Android phone and tablet specifications do not mention firewall support, and there is no way to check what the manufacturer implemented without modifying an Android device to have root access. I checked a number of Android devices, and they all have empty IPtables, which means no firewall protection.

There are a number of Android apps that do implement firewall protection. I recommend the DroidWall as the most flexible firewall. In addition to providing a firewall, avast! Mobile Security provides anti-virus, and anti-theft protection. These do require root access to the device, as does every Android app that provides a firewall. I do wish phone manufactures would provide a firewall app with every mobile device. For non-rooted phone, the only solution is to use a VPN (Virtual Private Network), as the VPN server firewalls provide protection.

So what difference does it make if my computer, or mobile device, does not have a firewall? Doesn’t my ISP have a firewall to protect its network? Isn’t the firewall on my router sufficient? Your ISP blocks some malicious traffic, but it cannot block legitimate Internet services, as your ISP has no idea what services you offer to the Internet. Consequently, you need a firewall on your device, when you are directly connected to the Internet via a cable modem, USB data card, or 3G data service to block probes for services. If you are connecting to the Internet via Wi-Fi, you need a firewall. As pointed out in the previous article, Wi-Fi networks are subject to unauthorized intrusion. This especially true, when your use a public Wi-Fi network.

On Day 3 of filming on location in the cloud forest surrounding the Arenal volcano, celebrated Hollywood director M. Night Shyamalan was taking a morning stroll towards a quiet spot to think about the set up of the day’s shots when he was stopped by a Tico crew member wearing a miner’s head lamp around his forehead. The crew member was holding a menacing-looking venomous snake in his hands.

“It spits, be careful”

“What’s the name again?”

“Jumping Pit Viper, or Atropoides Mexicanus, scientific name”

“Oh my goodness”

“What a beauty. Aarrgh!”

“Did it try jumping?  This is where we’re shooting”

M. Night Shyamalan filmed the ophidian encounter and promptly shared it with his thousands of Twitter followers, many of them film buffs, who critiqued his smartphone filming technique. “You should turn your phone sideways for landscape recording.” Tough crowd. Never mind that the day before the director had notified his followers that the weather was unpredictable, and that laying down tracks for dolly cam shots was difficult since it required bee and snake wranglers to clear the path ahead.

With blockbusters like The Sixth Sense, Signs, The Village, and others, M. Night Shyamalan has a lot to worry about other than jumping pit vipers and Twitter followers who are tough to please. He is directing a film with lots of star power and Hollywood moxie on it. The stars of After Earth are no less than American mega-star actor Will Smith and his son Jaden, who is playing a part as the son of Will’s character.  Since the film is currently in-production, only a few details have emerged about it.  The screenplay writers are Stephen Gagan (of Traffic and Syriana fame) and Gary Whitta (The Book of Eli).  It is interesting to note that Will Smith has already played in the post-apocalyptic sci-fi thriller I Am Legend, and that Whitta’s Book of Eli is also set in a dystopian future. Movie fans are excited that After Earth is in the creative hands of M. Night Shyamalan, a filmmaker known for cerebral and atmospheric work.  Shyamalan’s The Happening had a near-apocalyptic subtext, and it was well-received.

Star Power

For our few readers who are not familiar with Will Smith’s stellar trajectory, consider the following: he got his showbiz start in hip hop and sitcom, and in fact he is the first rapper to receive a Grammy Music award (as the Fresh Prince).  This accomplishment underscores his ability to appeal to many audiences. The Smith family has really known how to parlay hip hop culture into success.  Will Smith’s wife Jada Pinkett dated the late rapper Tupac Shakur; Will and Jada’s daughter Willow had a hit single (“Whip My Hair“), and son Jaden performed “Never Say Never” on the soundtrack of The Karate Kid -in which he also starred.

Ever since his days as the Fresh Prince, Will Smith has garnered significant Hollywood power. The films Six Degrees of Separation and Bad Boys were just the beginning. Starring in sci-fi blockbusters like Independence Day, I Am Legend, and iRobot cemented his career. After Earth is guaranteed to be one of his biggest accomplishments to date.

The Impact in our Economy

With such Hollywood royalty filming in San Carlos, the locals are excited and a few observers are paying attention to what is sure to become the biggest film production that uses Costa Rica as a filming location since Jurassic Park.  Michael Rowland, a reader of The Costa Rica Star gave a man-on-the-ground assessment of the situation upon the arrival of the film crew:

The hotel where Smith is staying is about 5 kilometers (3 1/2 miles) north of the volcano. We actually live about 12km (7 1/2 miles) SE of the mountain.

The film production is providing a significant boost to the local economy. Three local hotels are providing 250 rooms to the cast & crew. 200 Ticos (+ 100 foreigners) have been hired as extras or for work on the sets, and some of our neighbors have been asked to rent their vehicles, especially 4 X 4′s, to the set.

The Producer Speaks Up

What is known about After Earth is that it will be an epic film, set in a future when Earth has become unfit for humans to live in. The plot calls for a father and son team of space travelers -played by Will and Jaden Smith- who crash land on Earth. A rehabilitated Earth provides a tense background as the son must help his father survive.

After Earth is definitely a family affair: not only are Will and Jaden Smith involved, but also Caleeb Pinkett, brother of Jada Pinkett-Smith.  Jada is famous for her movie roles in the Matrix Trilogy and for being Jaden’s mom and Will’s better half. Jada is also in Costa Rica now. Her brother is a member of the Overbrook Entertainment production team, and in an interview with La Nacion, he only had nice things to say about working in our country:

• Costa Rica is a very beautiful place. We loved the Arenal; it has a deep earthy connection that’s very different from Hawaii or other locations. The volcano’s eruption in 1968 left one of its sides charred, which is perfect for filming the character walking uphill. The ocean’s not as close as in Hawaii, which is good.

• [In the film] Costa Rica represents Earth after it has regenerated itself. She has all the components we were looking for.

Caleeb could not disclose production budgets, but they are sure to be in the millions. He has been here before on a location scouting mission, and he told La Nacion that he understands Pura Vida. He lauded the work of the Tico film crews, and added:  “I think you have taken such good care of this country that more people will want to come here and film the Earth in her most beautiful state. It looks almost virginal, the way God intended it to be.”

The Hollywood of Central America?

In the past, The Costa Rica Star has reported on the wave of Hollywood celebrities snapping up luxury real estate in our country. Depending on the success of After Earth and the shots that M. Night Shyamalan and his crew accomplish over their two-week production schedule, the future of Costa Rica as a favorite filming location could improve significantly.

Aside from Jurassic Park, other Hollywood blockbusters like 1492, Basic, Congo, and Spy Kids II have scenes filmed here.  Classic surfing documentaries Step Into Liquid and Endless Summer II are also notable. Reality television fare like Temptation Island and Amazing Race have also stopped here; as well as lesser-known movies like Funny Money and Death to the Supermodels.

As Tico film productions like El Regreso, El Fin and Gestacion continue to please critics and audiences at international film festivals, a small film industry could develop; perhaps not on the level of Hollywood, but maybe closer to Vancouver, B.C. Professional local companies like Pura Vida Films report that each year over 100 film and video projects take place in Costa Rica.

Technical Details

Soon after his arrival in Costa Rica, director M. Night Shyamalan shared the following succinct message on his Twitter feed: Directing should reveal detail. So far After Earth has been filled with technical details. Not much is yet known about special effects, but knowing Shyamalan’s previous work, they are guaranteed to be both solid and spectacular.

To capture our country’s natural beauty and the right visual tones for After Earth, Shyamalan  is using a Sony F65. This is the first time the acclaimed director is going digital. The Sony F65 is a super high-end camera that costs more than a brand new Toyota Prado even after the Ministerio de Hacienda imposes the requisite taxes. M. Night Shyamalan is also the first filmmaker that will use the Sony F65 for a full-feature motion picture.

We asked our resident photography expert Solson Scherman to elaborate on what makes the Sony F65 such a big deal, and he pointed out that image resolution has a lot to do with it. The F65 is able to film at a 4K resolution – that’s four times higher than the standard resolution achieved by digital film cameras currently on the market. Mr. Scherman added that Peter Jackson, acclaimed director of Lord of the Rings and King Kong, is currently using 5K resolution on the Hobbit film with a Red One camera system. Pura Vida Films uses Red One equipment as well, but Peter Jackson wants to outdo both Tico film crews and M. Night Shyamalan with no less than 48 Red Epic cameras at the highest digital resolution possible.

Whether After Earth will find greater critical and box office than The Hobbit remains to be seen. We’ll have to wait until the summer of 2013 to see how the beautiful San Carlos scenery looks when filmed by a master director.

If you really wanted to see the song and music video that got Will Smith the first rap grammy, here you go! Summertime!

Has your computer, or mobile device, ever been infected with a computer virus, computer worm, Trojan horse, spyware, or adware?

Malware is the term used to cover all these forms of attacks. Do you currently run anti-virus software to protect your computer, smartphone, or tablet from internal attacks by malware? If you are not running a program that detects, removes, and protects against malware, how do you know that your system is not infected? Before discussing how to protect your system, we need to understand each form of intrusion.

A computer virus is the only form of malware that has the ability to replicate itself. When you load an infected file into memory, the virus stays behind to attach itself to other files. The computer virus spreads, when we share infected files with others. The virus may damage the files on your device, impact on performance, or do nothing. A virus may make itself known, or it may just quietly do its thing. A firewall offers no protection against a computer virus, as it does not scan files for infection.

A computer worm does not attach itself to a file, as it operates by itself. The worm spreads through the local network to infect other computers on the network. A properly configured firewall can prevent the spread of a computer worm. While a computer worm may do nothing other then try to propagate itself to other devices on the local network, it can cause damage to the device. Computer worms are known to delete files, encrypt files in an extortion attack, or send spam e-mails. A computer worm may give control of your device to an outside intruder, and become part of a “botnet” (not to be confused with Skynet from the Terminator series). The botnet can be used to send spam emails, or hide the the intruders IP address in an attempt to attack other computers.

A Trojan horse masquerades as beneficial application, but with a covert task. A Trojan may attempt to propagate to other devices on the local network. A properly configured firewall can mitigate against some of the covert behavior. The intruder can use the Trojan horse to generate spam emails, or act as an agent in a Denial of Service (DoS) attack. It can steal personal data such as account names, passwords, and credit card numbers. It can be used to install other malware, delete files, download files, upload files, or modify files. A Trojan horse can be used to log keystrokes, view the users screen, or crash the computer.

Spyware quietly does it intended task without the user knowledge. Spyware does not replicate or propagate. It is a directed attack against a single machine. A properly configured firewall may mitigate some of the behavior of spyware. The primary purpose of spyware is to log keystrokes, which can reveal personal information, and internet surfing behavior. Spyware can also be used to install other malware, redirect Web page requests, change computer settings, change network connections speed, or disrupt network access.

Adware (advertising supported software) automatically plays, displays, or downloads advertisements. Adware is normally more annoying than harmful. However, some adware includes spyware.

If your computers, smartphones, tablets, or eBook readers are not protected from malware intrusion, you should take immediate action to protect your Internet device. For individuals, there are plenty of free software alternatives that are just a good as the paid services.

For Microsoft Windows, I would recommend one of the following: Avira Free Antivirus, avast! Home Edition, or Microsoft Security Essentials.

For Android phones, tablets, and eBook readers, there are a number of excellent choices. I use avast! Free Mobile Security, because it is an excellent product, and, for those with root access, provides a firewall. Other choices are: AVG Mobilation, NetQin Mobile Security, and Lookout Mobile Security (also has a free version for the iPhone and iPad).

For many Nokia phones the only free antivirus program is MobiShield Lite, although MobiShield PRO only costs $2.99.

Preventing malware intrusion takes only a few minutes, and then they run automatically. The above recommendations list only those software packages that are truly free. They are not limited to a trial period, and all provide excellent protection. Many of the features offered in the premium packages are available through other free software packages. With a good firewall, and a good malware prevention package, your device is not going to be an easy target.

Being that I am Canadian, I feel great for this guy, who most likely spent his life working hard to support his family, in some of the coldest weather on the planet. It couldn’t have happen to a better more deserving person, he is even going to donate some of his winnings to the local community and recreation groups in Atlin. Which will provide many families with the money they need to put their kids in hockey, which as you know, is a Canadian past time, almost as popular as Maple Syrup.

The below is taken from the original article on 24 Hours Vancouver, which is a free commuter newspaper in Vancouver available at all of the Skytrain stations that at one point was owned by Billionaire business mogul, Jim Pattison, of the Pattison Group.

“A B.C. mine manager struck lottery gold last week, claiming a third of a $50 million Lotto Max jackpot on Friday.

Steve Murphy, of the northwestern B.C. municipality of Atlin, plans to vacation in Costa Rica with his $16.6 million winnings. The other two winners were from Quebec.

“I stuck the lottery ticket in the Check-A-Ticket machine and I thought I’d won $16,000,” he said. “I double checked with the clerk and all the numbers came up. Everything lit up, I couldn’t believe it.”

In a statement, Murphy said he has plans to contribute to local community and recreation groups in his hometown, which has a population of 500.

“The whole town knew in about 10 minutes,” he said.

“I went over to my sister’s house where we opened a bottle of champagne and celebrated. She couldn’t believe it either.”

The 52-year-old said he took the first flight to Vancouver to claim his big win. He bought his ticket at Atlin Food Basket, B.C.’s northernmost lottery ticket centre.”

Santa Teresa, Costa Rica, February 7th 2012 – This may seem a bit out of place; reading an article about the rainy season while we are in the midst of a particularly hot Dry Season here on the Pacific coast of Costa Rica, but Rainy Season is just around the corner, and being prepared is half the battle.

Rainy Season is aptly named due to the fact that from mid May through to the end of October, for the majority of days, it is very wet. Living in a somewhat isolated area such as Santa Teresa, on the Nicoya Peninsula, the extreme amounts of rain cause some pretty serious issues. Landslides are frequent, bridges wash out with every big storm that blows through, and power outages are the norm. Dealing with all of this can at times be quite daunting, but there are a few things you can do to make sure that your survival is guaranteed.

Dampness, bug hatches, mold, fungus and flooding are all things that you have to deal with living in the tropics during the rainy season. The Nicoya Peninsula is subject to pretty extreme weather during the wet months, as is the rest of Costa Rica. The Central Valley is not free of problems during the wet months either, as many mountain towns such as Heredia and San Jose de Montaña face massive flooding and rain water management issues.

Being able to deal with the extreme wetness at the beach is something that locals here have become very good at over the years. Having a good dryer is a must, as there is not enough sun to properly dry your laundry. Having medicated talcum powder to prevent foot fungus is key, as keeping your feet dry and healthy is one of the most important things you can do. Having a large selection of Tupperware containers to keep important documents and electronics out of the extreme humidity is a good plan, as you never know what will happen. Pack clothing away, not with mothballs, but with some antibacterial soap to preserve freshness and prevent mold and fungus. Scented soaps smell better than mothballs anyway, and you can always use the soap when you unpack your things.

Having proper footwear will make your experiences during the rainy season in Costa Rice much better. Ticos prefer knee high rubber boots, with long socks and liberal use of talcum powder to keep your feet dry and clean. The added bonus is that if you wear pants, you can tuck them into the boots to keep them dry as well. Along with a good pair of boots, you should have a storm proof raincoat, something that is light, yet durable. You don’t need something that is designed for cold weather, but you do need something that can handle a serious amount of rain. Some people even take an extra step in weather proofing their garments, and apply a liquid water seal, such as Thompson’s Water Seal, in a spray bottle. This makes your raincoat so waterproof that you could stand under a fire hose and not get wet.

As far as jungle tools that you will need for survival of your first rainy season on the Nicoya Peninsula, a good machete (not to be confused with the Mexican hero of the people) can do amazing things. Any local “ferreterria” or hardware store will have lots of machetes of varying lengths. You want one that is around two feet long, as it can double as a shovel, and the shorter blade is stiffer, offering better digging capabilities. With a good machete you can cut down small trees, cut vines, cut barbed wire fencing, and even open a coconut after you work up a sweat. A good multi tool such as the Leatherman Wave is a great thing to have in your survival kit as well, as this will get you through too many situations to even number. A roll of duct tape, a LED waterproof head lamp, and a few yards of strong military grade cord will round out your hardware list, and will ensure that no matter what you come across you are prepared.

You could go the extra mile and outfit your vehicle, if you have one, with a chainsaw, jack, winch and rally lights, but those are extras that not everyone has access to. A well-made mosquito net is something that should be in your bag no matter where you travel in the tropics, as dengue fever and malaria are common during the wet season. As far as medical supplies to always carry, there are a few necessities; you will always want a powdered antibiotic, as creams keep things moist, and in the rainy season you want to dry wounds out ASAP. You should carry a stitch kit, some good bandages, a few bottles of cortisone cream, some New Skin, a very practical liquid bandage, and hydrogen peroxide. These few items will allow you to patch yourself up and seek further medical attention if needed.

Don’t be daunted by the challenges presented by living in the tropics during Rainy Season, the weather is not always bad. Between storms there are some amazing things to be seen; the rivers are flowing, there is no dust, there are more birds and animals around, it’s a very pleasant experience, provided you have what you need to be comfortable. More and more people are staying here throughout the year, and have come to love the rainy season, it’s unpredictable, but you can’t fight nature. You never know until you give it a try, so stick around and tough it out! That is what Costa Rica is all about.

Since this article is for residents and visitors I will sneak in a word on shopping and pricing. Buying camera gear in Costa Rica is insanely expensive so I don’t do it. Import taxes, exchange rates and the sales tax routinely push prices 50% or more above what can be had in the States. This also means we don’t get the selection that is available in the States or Europe. My solution is usually to wait until a friend headed to the States needs a ride from the airport. I have my new toy shipped to them and they bring it back on the plane. This works with co-workers on business trips as well. (If anyone from the Ministerio de Hacienda is reading this I am in no way advocating tax evasion). Just remember you are taking a risk because if there is a problem you won’t have a warranty claim.

Ok, now down to business. First for you DSLR folks it’s simple: go wide. The landscapes are breathtaking, and usually there is another scenic view just around the next bend. I’ve seen a lot of the country in the past few years and I find myself packing my super-wide angle most of the time. Super-wide lenses also tend to have very short minimum focusing distances so you can still get close-up, you just have to use your feet. You may not be able to get as tight on some shots, but you can always crop and you probably weren’t packing a lens long enough to zoom in on that sloth’s eyeball anyway.

If you’re shopping for a super-wide lens, I’ll stay neutral and recommend the well reviewed and reasonably priced Sigma 10-20mm EX DC HSM f/3.5, for cameras with APS-C sensors (commonly called crops), since it’s what most of us have. This lens is available in mounts for most camera brands. If you use a full frame camera, the advice is the same, pack the widest lens in your bag. As for accessories I recommend a circular polarizing filter to make that glare disappear, and a tripod. Here’s an example of all three items at use (click to enlarge):

Caption: Cartago after sunset. Exposure info: 10 Secs at f/11, 22mm ISO 100

If you are a bird-watcher or want to shoot surfing (or zoom in on the sloth’s eyeball) then you’ll need something very long, and you probably already have it and are willing to haul it. For the budget conscious who need more reach I have a solution in the next section.

If you are shopping for a travel camera and don’t want to compromise too much or just don’t want to haul a ton of gear, consider a super-zoom camera. These cameras are somewhere in between a DSLR and a compact point and shoot. They usually have manual control features similar to DSLRs, faster shutter response than point and shoot cameras (action shots are possible, try that with your fancy phone), as well as incredible zoom ranges often from 24-800mm.

You’ve got tons of options, but my suggestion would be to look at the models from Canon (SX series) first, then Sony, Fuji and Nikon. All are reputable, quality brands and will take great pictures. Most also feature some form of image stabilization for low-light and super-zoom lengths. The wide-end of the zoom range isn’t quite as wide as what I suggested for DSLR users, but it’s close, and the whole camera costs less than that lens I recommended to the fancy camera gang. Ignore the megapixel count, trust me it means nothing. My advice as for accessories with these cameras is a tripod (or monopod), plenty of batteries and a carrying case.

If that still sounds like more than you want to carry (super-zooms won’t fit in your pocket) and you are just looking to have fun, pick up a waterproof point-and-shoot camera. While a bit of a compromise as far a features go, these cameras are tons of fun and are far more likely to survive, a sudden downpour, adventure travel, some bugs I’ve seen, or the kids.

Since these cameras are well sealed and built tough they tend to survive being dropped in the sand, bumps and cold temperatures as well as going swimming. One big thing to keep in mind with these is the depth rating. Most are rated to 3 meters (10ft) of STATIC water pressure, though a few go down to 10 meters (33ft). Waves are big, heavy and moving. Don’t let a wave slap your camera. Don’t let the kids jump into the pool with the camera. Bad things will happen, crying or cursing may ensue.

There are quite a few options (and tons of colors) but the Olympus Tough and Canon D10 are tops for quality in this category. You do get what you pay for, and I would be leery of the quality of the lowest priced models. As for accessories get yourself batteries, a gorillapod mini tripod, and sense of humor.

Caption: Goofiness is often a side-effect of waterproof cameras. Tons of fun, where only they can play.

Whatever camera and equipment you choose while exploring Costa Rica have fun and take lots of pictures. Remember any camera is better than no camera, even if that camera is a phone.

What is legal to bring to through the airports, what is not? Seems like San Jose and Liberia have their own separate ideas, with Liberia being less tolerant. I tried to bring in vacuum packed smoked and cooked salmon through Liberia, had it confiscated and destroyed (yeah right). My friend has brought in raw frozen salmon and halibut through San Jose many times, never a problem.

Hello Gordy Lee, thanks for your question. There’s little chance that the confiscated salmon was destroyed. Salmon has been traditionally missing from our cuisine, but Costa Rica is slowly warming up to the global village concept, and thus it is very likely that the impounded fish ended up in a delicious recipe such as Spaghetti with Salmon-Flavored White Sauce, made with Maggi condiments and Ideal evaporated milk.

The Costa Rica Star does not give legal advice, but our democratic roots allow the free discussion of our laws, which is what follows:

The customs officer at Liberia probably had every right to confiscate the salmon in the absence of a declaration or approved form requesting the importation of food items for the purpose of exhibition and tasting. Laws and rules pertaining customs tend to be complicated affairs, often depending on international and regional treaties, like the Central American Customs Treaty, World Trade Organization rules, and even the Kyoto Protocol.

There should be uniformity in customs between the Juan Santamaria (SJO) and Daniel Oduber Quiros (LIR) airports. Public Law 7556, known as Ley General de Aduanas, and its pertinent administrative regulations make no distinction between the passenger ports of entry, with the exception of Paso Canoas in our southern border with Panama, where you can take advantage of the duty-free shops in Colon. The only difference between SJO and LIR is that flying into the latter is very expensive; something that we hope will change in the future as budget-conscious travelers eschew the convenience of flying into LIR for a much cheaper SJO arrival, thereby sparking up airfare price competition.

We already discussed the issue of what you can and cannot reasonably bring in your luggage in a previous Reader’s Mail article. When it comes to chemicals, controlled substances and foodstuffs, there are certain limitations. Foodstuffs are defined as substances, either processed or raw, that are intended for ingestion. This definition would include drinks and chewing gum. The Central American Customs Treaty dictates certain procedures for the admission of foodstuffs, including declarations and inspections. At a minimum, a declaration and request for bringing foodstuffs must be filed. In an article written for the B2B publication Crecex, Margarita Libby -a legal expert in matters of importation and customs- explained that: “a mistake frequently made is to bring articles that need some process of authorization such as food, vegetable or animal products, chemicals, cosmetic products, drugs, radio transmitters, etc.”

Margarita Libby recommends obtaining an official form from the Health Ministry or the Foreign Trade Corporation of Costa Rica (PROCOMER). Such form will alert customs officers as to the nature and origin of the foodstuffs. You will also need to present proof of purchase, or proof of catch in the case of salmon. You can bring up to $500 worth of food without having to pay import taxes.

As to why your friend has been able to sail past SJO customs with frozen fish on his possession is open to conjecture. Perhaps SJO custom officers are more experienced and familiar with the origin of the salmon. Some Alaska fisheries that ship frozen salmon routinely meet the American government export standards, which are adopted in several other countries. It may also be due customs officers at SJO being more relaxed than their counterparts at LIR; similar to how immigration officers in Paso Canoas are more relaxed than their counterparts in our northern border (a reason why visa runs to Panama are preferred).

We hope that you have better luck next time with your frozen fish, Gordy. Until then, may we suggest you try our fresh tilapia filets grilled and baked with black beans and rice?

If you have a question that you would like us to research and answer, send it to us and we would be happy to turn it into an article on your behalf.

Here’s a recap of Don Jose Rodolfo’s extremely detailed wireless journey, which La Fragua published over two lengthy articles. The Costa Rica Star added its part by testing a Claro 128K chip for voice calls and really cheap Internet use. We hope you find this information as valuable as we did:

Technical Information

• Don Jose Rodolfo primarily tested a Nokia X6 (3G), and sporadically a Sharp Sidekick and an old Motorola model he did not specify.
• He conducted the testing over a period of one month, between November 13 and December 12 last year.
• He tested the different wireless carriers in Downtown San Jose, La Sabana, Escazu, Zapote, Barreal de Heredia, Lagunilla, Real Cariari Mall, Downtown Cartago, and Tres Rios.
• The Costa Rica Star tested the Claro 128K SIM chip on a DWM-152 D-Link HSDPA USB wireless modem over a DIR 412 mobile wireless router last week. The voice test was performed with the ubiquitous Nokia 2730 (a favorite among Ticos).

Movistar

Don Jose Rodolfo acquired a prepaid Movistar SIM chip for 2,500 colones at one of their new stores in San Jose. He was offered to look at available shiny handsets and he respectfully declined. He was asked for name, address and ID (cedula). He walked out with the SIM chip and 1,000 free text messages in 15 minutes.

Upon testing SMS functionality, Don Jose Rodolfo discovered that Movistar and Claro did not talk to each other. Voice calls were normal. He was also surprised at the expense of prepaid Internet service: 400 colones per day! He called Customer Service in Guatemala, and the agent could not justify the high cost, nor did he understand the value of 400 colones. Since that time, Movistar’s Internet access fees are 100 colones less per day, still higher than the other services.

One neat thing that Don Jose Rodolfo noticed was the option of turning Caller ID privacy on or off by simply preceding the phone number to be dialed with #30#. The reported signal strength and call quality was virtually the same as Kolbi’s.

Claro

On a busy Sunday night, Don Jose Rodolfo was greeted by a curvaceous model at a Claro retail store in Downtown San Jose. He had to draw a numbered ticket and wait in long line, similar to Banco Nacional. Two hours later he sat in front of a business-like young man who asked for ID and had him fill out a form to take advantage of the prepaid offer: 2,500 colones per month, with two months paid in advance, grants Claro prepaid subscribers a credit of 4,000 colones.

Don Jose Rodolfo was surprised to find out that the activation SMS, customer service calls, and information text messages came at a cost. The transaction took him 2 hours and 33 minutes.

The Costa Rica Star purchased a Claro 128K chip at a pulperia in Pavas for 2,500. No questions, no ID required. The young man minding the shop scribbled vague Internet activation instructions in a dirty napkin, which can be found in great detail here.

Inserting the chip in a Nokia 2730 did not require a PIN entry. The on-screen menu includes a SIM-based Windows Live Messenger that requires no Internet subscription and is free for all incoming communications, but 6 colones for outgoing messages.

Don Jose Rodolfo and The Costa Rica Star experienced a similar experience in terms of voice quality using Claro in the Central Valley: noticeable echo, like using Skype over a bad Internet connection. The quality improved tenfold, however, within reasonable range of a Claro antenna.

There are two basic Internet options: texting IB to the number 444 grants 24 hours of 512 Kbps access, which can be rationed by sending the message FIN and reactivating at a later time. The actual downstream/upstream speeds are closer to 220/80 than the advertised 512 Kbps, but at 100 colones for 24 hours, no self-respecting Tico should complain. Texting IA to the number 444 grants 24 hours of 1.5 Mbps access, which in reality works out to about 700/120 for 300 colones. It bears mentioning here that The Costa Rica Star conducted these tests within a kilometer of an imposing Claro antenna, but consulting the signal strength map on the company’s site turned out to be very accurate.

With Claro’s basic wireless Internet you can’t send e-mail from desktop clients like Outlook, Thunderbird, Apple OS X Mail, Zimbra, Eudora, etc. The Transport Layer security is not being supported. You have to stick to web-based mail, such as Gmail, Hotmail, Yahoo, etc.

Kolbi-ICE

Don Jose Rodolfo sent his daughter to obtain a prepaid chip from an authorized Kolbi retailer, under stern warnings from the clerk that her signature should appear exactly like on the cedula. She was done in 10 minutes, but without the benefit of a manual like Claro or Movistar.

The problem with Kolbi should be familiar to many of our readers. You get zero customer service unless the handset was purchased from ICE. The GSM 2G network is virtually dead, and during times of heavy network load the voice and Internet suffer greatly. Not even SMS functionality is safe in dead spots or during times of heavy network load. Kolbi’s 3G signal is far superior to Claro’s, and it is the same as Movistar, TuYo and FullMovil.

The Kolbi dead spots are well-published by ICE (you can find them in red here), but the Claro maps seem to be more accurate. The network load issue is bound to continue, especially now that we know that ICE has a whopping 90 percent of the wireless market, as we reported in our recent Week in Review.

Conclusion

Customer service is lacking at all three carriers, Movistar is a bit overpriced, Kolbi is oversubscribed, and Claro works like a charm if you are close to their antennas. The last word from Don Jose Rodolfo is: take advantage of the wireless services offered at the pulperias, take customer service with a grain of salt, and always read the fine print of any special offer.

When you think of Costa Rica you often think of all inclusive hotels, jungle excursions, and surfing. But if you look closely, you will find amazing locations for beautiful real estate development. Such is the case with Randy and Rhonda, a married couple and owners of CR-Home.com who moved here years ago to follow their dreams of living a tropical lifestyle that is mentally and physically rewarding. Originally from Minnesota, getting away from the deep colds of winter were important to them. Much like one of the main questions that their clients initially ask: “How can we move to an amazing location in the tropics of Costa Rica, get an affordable home that we own, and beat the winter cold?”

They have partnered with local land owners, and through years of hard work here on the ground, they are able to offer YOU, the potential home buyer, a truly valuable proposition. What would you say if we told you that CR-Home.com can get you into your very own Costa Rica beach front or mountainside house starting at only $44,000 USD? That is a far cry from the $500,000 USD homes up the road from their developments that sit there empty and unused for years. The real estate markets have changed globally, and thus the approach of Randy and Rhonda is refreshing to see for many people.

Randy and Rhonda know what their customers want. They want pristine untouched beach front very close to their homes, access to world class health care and food choices, comfortable climates, and safe community feeling with the locals and neighbors. With location choices in Grecia Costa Rica, where the weather is voted to be the best in the world year round, and many choices along the Pacific Coast of Costa Rica near Jaco. You can be sure that they have something special waiting for you.

The pictures below will give you a good look at the styles and sizes of the homes. You can get them fully furnished in a “turnkey” format or leave them as a blank slate to decorate and style yourself. Either way, you are sure to enjoy the value and locations of these properties. High speed internet access, electricity access, and all of the amenities you would have in the United States, Canada, or Europe are included in each home.

I used to teach Linux and Unix seminars all over the USA, Canada, and many other countries. In most cases, I was not allowed to use the clients Internet to access the Internet for my business. So, at lunch and dinner, the exercise was to find a coffee shop, or restaurant, that provided public Wi-Fi access. I used a Wi-Fi radar app on my phone to determine were I was going to dine. It always amazed me how many businesses, and residences, had no security on their Wi-Fi network. Not only were they inviting others to use their Internet connection, but they were exposing all the computers on their network. Laptops, netbooks, tablets, and phones have the habit of connecting to the Wi-Fi hotspot that has the strongest signal. This can lead to accidental, but still unauthorized, use of someone’s network.

The first step to securing your Wi-Fi network is to require a password to access the network. Using a clear text password is like writing the password on your terminal, so routers encrypt the password using one of three encryption protocols. The oldest, and least secure, is WEP (Wired Equivalent Privacy). An individual can decode a WEP password in less then 10 minutes (it takes the FBI only 3 minutes). WEP is like using a suitcase padlock to protect a case of precious jewels. Wi-Fi Protected Access (WPA) addresses this weakness, but is still breakable. WPA2 creates the strongest security. Even WPA2 can be decoded, if the passwords are dictionary words, in any language, or are too short. A string of 14 characters (mixed alphanumeric, and special characters) is virtually impossible to break. With a good WPA2 password, your network is more secure, but not totally secure.

Every Wi-Fi router has an administrative account that has a default name and password. The default name and password are in the setup guide, which is available on the Internet. If someone gets access to your network, they can reconfigure your network, without your knowledge. One of the favorite tricks is to enable remote access to your network. This means that they can access your router from the Internet, at any time, from any place. To protect your router from unauthorized access, you need to change the name of the administrative account, use a secure password, and disable remote access. It goes without saying that this password should be different than the WPA2 password. While much more difficult, it is still possible for someone to gain unauthorized access to your network.

From past articles, we know that every machine has a unique IP address, but this is not the address used for communications to the device. Every network interface on a device has a unique MAC (Media Access Control) address. Most Wi-Fi routers allow you to define what devices are permitted to access your network based on its MAC address. The MAC looks like this example: 01:23:45:67:89:ab. To find the MAC address on Microsoft XP, Vista, and Windows 7, you need to open a Command window and enter ipconfig /all. On Unix / Linux, the command is ifconfig -a. On Macintosh computers the MAC address is found under the TCP/IP Control Panel. For an Android phone, it is under Settings -> About Phone -> Status. On some devices, you may find multiple MAC address, one for each network interface. Once you know the MAC address, you can configure the router to only accept connections from those addresses.

It is possible to monitor your network, after all it uses radio frequencies, and collect MAC addresses. Someone can then use MAC address spoofing to gain access to the network. You can make this very difficult by creating a hidden network. Wi-Fi radars depend on finding the name (SSID) of the network. A network with no SSID is called a hidden network. It takes a bit more work to configure a device to connect to a hidden network, but it puts a definite crimp on anyone’s ability to find the network, in the first place.

When you use your phone to tether to the Internet, the only security available is use a good WPA2 password. An ad-hoc network must have an SSID, so there is no way to hide the network.

To see what your network looks like try these tools: AirSnare for Windows, Wireshark for Linux, and Fing for Android. Besides, these tools simplify the task of collecting the MAC address that you need for your router.

There is no such thing as absolute security, but we can make it more difficult. Many years ago, I was an adult probation officer in Phoenix, Arizona. Over the years that I held this job, I performed hundreds of pre-sentence investigations. Of all those investigations, only a few were true professional criminals. One individual was charged with 50 counts of auto theft, after a deal that closed over a thousand auto thefts. He didn’t steal just any car, he stole to order. His rule was that if it took more than 30 seconds to steal a car, it was not worth the risk. So it is with protecting your WiFi network. Each step we take makes it more difficult, and not worth the effort to a potential unauthorized user. We are not just preventing access to the Internet, we are protecting the confidential information stored on our computers.

The business history of Costa Rica is similar to that in other Latin American countries, with the exception of short-lived dictatorships that were not able to fleece the country as much as other despotic oligarchies, to wit: Batista, Castro, Pinochet, et al. Agriculture has been a major producer of wealth and power for several Tico families, and opportunity-seeking foreigners have a long history of “striking it rich” in Costa Rica. Wealth and political clout, like in many other nations, have gone hand-in-hand.

It is interesting to note that although a Tico film producer helped spark the Occupy Wall Street (OWS) movement, Costa Rica does not present a case of the OWS theory of the 99 percent against the 1 percent. A walk down some of the ritzy neighborhoods in Barrio Amon, Escazu, Jaco, Liberia, and Santa Ana will lead anyone to believe in the existence of the one percent, but statistics show that income distribution is stratified in five segments, with the top 10 percent of households taking in most of the wealth. The fact that foreign income and investments are lawfully tax exempt in Costa Rica make it difficult to estimate net worth. Initiatives such as adoption of Free Trade Agreements (FTA) have managed to attract billions in foreign direct investment (FDI), with a lot of that money flowing overseas.

The following individuals, families and enterprises are just some of the current movers and shakers in Costa Rica stimulating industry and accumulating wealth. Some made money the old-fashioned way (by inheriting it), while some have been quite industrious in their quest for wealth. This is not meant to be an exhaustive list, nor is it meant to categorize moguls or magnates and their mega-millions. These are market leaders with enough acumen and microeconomic potential to influence Tico business.

The Arias Family

Former President and Nobel Peace Prize Laureate Oscar Arias Sanchez comes from a family that made its fortune in coffee and real estate, two time-honored staples of Tico fortunes. The Arias family is a good example of old Tico money. The subject of Oscar Arias’ personal wealth attracted the interest of former U.S. Ambassador Mark Langdale, who wrote a lengthy profile of the Nobel Laureate for the Bush administration using pedantic and pretentious rhetoric that was revealed in 2011 thanks to the WikiLeaks affair.

On that leaked diplomatic cable, Langdale seemed envious of Arias’ wealth, pointing out his holdings in Grupo Sama, a powerful investment banking firm that has been compared to Morgan Stanley and counts the Catholic church in Costa Rica as a client. In fact, Oscar Arias is a Morgan Stanley client: back in 2006 one of his business entities had more than $570,000 invested with the American firm.  Aside from coffee, the Arias family has made significant profit in sugar plantations and real estate transactions over the years, particularly in San Joaquin de Flores in Heredia. It is believed that the land where the Paseo de las Flores mall and several gated communities sit in Heredia today once belonged to the Arias family.

The Figueres Family

Jose Figueres Ferrer, a key figure of the Costa Rican Civil War and the abolishment of the military, was the elder figure in charge of forming a wealthy and powerful dynasty of politicians, public servants and business leaders. It all started with a coffee farm he named La Lucha (the struggle). La Lucha grew into a paragon of capitalistic socialism where hard-working sharecroppers and their families where welcomed into a co-op where education and health were guaranteed.  Aside from coffee, La Lucha produced rope made from hemp. From those humble beginnings, the elder Figueres got into politics, sparked a Civil War, abolished the army, forged ties with the CIA, granted asylum to fugitive businessman Robert Vesco, became President twice, and catapulted his family into a series of highly profitable business ventures, mostly in agriculture, real estate, and financial investments.

Two of Figueres’ children have held notable public service positions: Karen Christiana leads the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change and has been involved in private enterprises dedicated to the profitable advancement of sustainability.  Jose Figueres Olsen is a former President who lives in semi-exile and is the current CEO of Concordia 21, a global consultancy non-profit dedicated to philanthropy and the advancement of technology developing nations, among other things.

The Costa Rica Star previously reported on a meeting between members of the Figueres family and the Branson family (of the Virgin business empire).

Edgar Zurcher and John Keith

The financial interests and holdings of these two Costa Rica-based entrepreneurs are impressive: PriceSmart, Payless Shoes, Promerica Bank, the Trilogy Office Center and many commercial spaces in Avenida Escazu. Zurcher and Keith show no signs of slowing down, as Promerica’s Board of Executives recently acquired a majority interest in Deportivo Saprissa, the most profitable football team in Costa Rica and perhaps in Central America.

Alvarez & Marin Corporacion, S.A.

The founders and executives of this powerful business holding company are Antonio Alvarez Desanti and Nuria Marin Raventos, a married couple.  Nuria comes from the prestigious Raventos family, known in Spain and Costa Rica for their business acumen and dedication to the arts. Antonio has a lengthy trajectory in public service and politics, particularly under the powerhouse Partido Liberacion Nacional, a party which counts the affiliation of our current President Laura Chinchilla and the Arias and Figueres families above.

The company began in the 1980s as a modest business that dealt in peanuts, cashews and later footwear. These days, Alvarez & Marin is a banana production conglomerate, owns several Wendy’s restaurants, holds interest in shopping centers, residential housing complexes, auto shops, ecotourism developments, and real estate operations. The social media-savvy Antonio has not lost his appetite for politics, and is currently rumored to lead the charge for a presidential candidacy, along with San Jose Mayor Johnny Araya.

Dr. Franklin Chang-Diaz

The Hall of Fame astronaut and founder of Ad Astra Rocket Company could see a significant financial windfall from his efforts to advance space exploration for the benefit of humanity. In a previous Week in Review we reported about the availability of financial instruments to invest in Ad Astra. One of Chang-Diaz’ visions -besides developing the revolutionary VASIMR engine for manned missions to Mars- is to leverage Ad Astra’s technology for the salvage and recovery of space junk. Now that commercial venture SpaceX has been given the thumbs-up to initiate a countdown for a salvage mission to the International Space Station, the likelihood of Ad Astra gaining a lucrative space salvage contract has increased significantly.

The movers and shakers above are sure to contribute to Costa Rica’s future standing in the financial world, but The Costa Rica Star knows that the list is inconclusive. We’d like our readers to let us know of new Tico business leaders poised to achieve financial success that we should be covering in the future.

Wi-Fi is also an acronym for Wireless Fidelity, although we now use Wi-Fi as if were a noun. Wi-Fi, itself, refers to the IEEE 802.11 standard. IEEE is the Institute of Electrical and Electronic Engineers, and they number their standards. The goal of standards is to provide interoperability between devices. Unfortunately, manufactures interpreted the standard differently. In 1999, a group of industry leaders formed the Wi-Fi Alliance to certify products that complied to the IEEE 802.11 standard. The standard contains a number of subsections that are identified by appending lower cases letters to the standard.

IEEE 802.11 b/g/n, the letters refer to different communication protocols used to communicate between devices. These protocols determine the data transfer rate. IEEE 802.11b is the oldest and slowest standard. Since Wi-Fi uses radio frequencies as the medium of communication, we are back to regulation of a limited resource. In the USA, the FCC (Federal Communication Commission) authorized only 11 channels. SUTEL (Superintendencia de Telecomunicaciones) in Costa Rica, like most countries, authorized 13 channels. Japan authorized the use of a 14th channel. The problem is that the channels overlap each other. As a result, you often see channels 1, 6, and 11 as the options for Wi-Fi equipment made for the USA. The rest of the world used channels 1,5,9,13 as the non-interfering channels. The IEEE 802.11g standard increases the speed by changing the protocol used for communications, but the channels stayed the same. IEEE 802.11n is the fastest protocol, critical for HD (High Definition) video streaming, and uses channel 3 and 11 as the non-interfering channels, as it uses a much wider bandwidth than the b or g. While a single WAP only uses one channel, it is the neighboring WAPs that can create a problem. For example, if you use channel 11 for 802.11n, and another Wi-Fi in radio range uses channel 9 for 802.11g, there is going to be interference, and both signals will degrade, resulting in slower data rates. For this reason Wi-Fi uses very low power to limit the range and the chance of interference. It is no different than if you are listening to a radio, and you get interference from another station on a nearby frequency. I know this sounds complicated, but it is the reality of Wi-Fi. If you have an Android device, the WiFi Analyzer App displays a great graphical view of Wi-Fi signals, that clearly illustrate the above.

The good news is that most countries, including Costa Rica, allocated another band, just for 802.11n. The Wi-Fi routers that implement the additional band are referred to as dual-band routers. When the router has interference on one band, it automatically switches to the other band. The catch is that a dual-band WAP can only play this game with devices that support dual bands. Devices negotiate with each other to find the fastest protocol that they can use for communication. This allows a device with an older protocol, such as IEEE 802.11b, to communicate with a WAP that supports IEEE 802,11 b/g/n. Now for some interesting new approaches to Wi-Fi communications.

In the article on tethering, I mention that Wi-Fi tethering uses the ad-hoc mode. The ad-hoc mode still uses Wi-Fi frequencies, and the phone does act as an access point to the Internet. However, there is no local network. The ad-hoc mode acts like a wireless cable between two devices. To create a network without a WAP, the Wi-Fi Alliance created a new protocol call Wi-Fi Direct. In addition to one-to-one connections, you can connect a group of devices. With Wi-Fi Direct, the phone becomes another member of the group (see this demo). To joint the group, you need to know its password. There still is no local network. Devices do not require an IP address to communicate. This only works for devices certified as supporting Wi-Fi Direct.

Digital Living Network Alliance (DLNA) is not yet another standard. Rather, it is a set of guidelines that enable sharing of digital media between consumer devices. The guidelines are based on existing standards. Consumer devices that are certified by the Digital Living Network Alliance get to display the DLNA logo. The best way to experience the benefits of DLNA is to visit the Digital Living Network Alliance Web site. After you go through the demos, you will have to admit that it is really cool.

The Office of President Laura Chinchilla has once again sided with the people.  On an official press release issued on Monday, January 30, Casa Presidencial issued a statement that echoes the sentiment against the Fiscal Reform plan that is being battled over in our National Assembly.  As reported in La Nacion, the communique stated that the Executive found that it is common to expect some degree of public uproar over tax reforms, even when in this case 70 percent of the taxes will be shouldered by the top 20 percent of Ticos in terms of income and wealth.

The Executive press release was issued a day after La Nacion published the results of a poll it commissioned to gauge the general sentiment towards the proposed amendments to taxation and revenue collection among the populace.  About 70 percent of the 1200 households polled had a good understanding of what the Fiscal Reform plan entails, and three out of four Ticos reject it.  It is estimated that the strong opposition emanates from the proposed one percent increase to the Value-Added Tax (known as IVA by its initials in Spanish).  IVA is currently 13% on a national level, and it is levied on a variety of goods and services.  Only about 15 percent of those surveyed believe that the Fiscal Reform plan will be sufficient to address the growing deficit.  The projected deficit for 2012 calls for 5.5 percent of Costa Rica’s GDP, but last year’s projection fell short thanks to improved revenue collection initiatives.

Most Ticos believe that the deficit emanates from too much public spending.  Many believe that allocating large budgets to public services, including La Caja, only serves to incite waste and brings out the ugly forces of corruption.  Forty-six percent of those polled by Unimer/La Nacion believe that excessive bureaucracy incites more waste.

Services rendered by professionals such as attorneys and engineers, both currently exempt, would be taxed under the proposals, and the upper class (defined as 20 percent of the country) would jump to a higher tax bracket.  Economists and demographers tend to split households into five different socioeconomic classes, in which the bottom six percent live in abject poverty and would require more government assistance.  Many Ticos believe that prosperity is evident in the country, and that raising taxes is not the issue.  Instead, they think the problem lies in inefficient tax collection methods and poor enforcement.

Glimpses of the Fiscal Reform plan have already been implemented in the form of taxes on business entities and luxury real estate, as The Costa Rica Star has reported in the past.

New National Park Proposal Stokes the Fire of Border Conflict

The BBC and Nicaragua’s La Prensa reported on a new proposal by the Ministry of the Environment to protect more than 14,000 hectares in the northern Caribbean, including 300 hectares that Nicaragua claims as sovereign.  The conservation plan is already underway, with forestry engineers visiting the northern region and coordinating the replanting of trees felled by dredging operations near Harbour Head and Calero Island, which were conducted by the ever-polemic Eden Pastora, the former revolutionary who invaded Costa Rica with an infantry squad, and who memorably blamed the gaffe on Google Maps.  Both countries have thus far respected the mandate of the International Court of Justice at The Hague to avoid armed patrols in the area.

Protests Against Mining Projects in Panama Prevent Ticos’ Return

More than 250 Ticos, including workers, shoppers and perpetual tourists, are not able to return home due to a roadblock imposed by indigenous groups in Panama opposed to mining and prospecting in their northern lands.  These native tribes share affinity with our Bribri people in Talamanca.  Most of the trapped Ticos are traveling in 12 buses.  Food supplies are running low, and hygiene concerns are in the minds of many riders.  Italian news agency ANSA reported that members of the Executive Office have called upon Panamanian authorities to help those stranded to return home by air.

Ministry of Transportation Ratifies Foreigners’ Rights to Driver’s Licenses

All foreign residents, whether temporary or permanent, have the right to obtain a Costa Rica driver license, as long as they present a valid driving permit from their country of origin.  Such was the official statement recently published by the National Highway Safety Council (COSEVI) and the Ministry of Transportation.  This privilege can only be claimed at the COSEVI building in La Uruca, Mondays through Fridays from 8 to 11am.  The cost of issuance is 4,000 colones, and is valid for three years.

ECONOMY

Chuck Sykes, CEO of his eponymous global customer support and outsourcing firm, is not worried about fiscal reform or any new taxes in Costa Rica.  In an interview with print news weekly El Financiero, Chuck Sykes announced that his firm invested $2 million in opening a third large-scale call center in the southern metropolitan suburbs near Hatillo.  The populous Hatillo area is sometimes thought of as unsafe, and it is not traditionally associated with the corporate parks in Heredia, Escazu and Santa Ana.  Still, Chuck Sykes believes that there is great potential to draw from the local community.  Sykes will recruit educated and multilingual candidates.

Outside of Costa Rica, Sykes operates massive call centers in the United States, Canada and the Philippines.  Chuck Sykes remains firm in his belief that even though the proposed Fiscal Reform plan would levy a 15 percent tax on his operations, the quality of the Tico labor force is worth it.  Sykes currently employs 3,200 Ticos, most of them English-speaking customer service reps, and could add another 400 to its payroll by the end of the year.

The Pet Business is Booming in Costa Rica

Financial news daily La Republica reported on an innovative establishment in Alajuela and Escazu just for pets, where they can receive veterinarian care, be groomed, and enjoy pampering sessions courtesy of their grateful owners.  Hospital HVA Nutricion Animal is a new concept in the lucrative pet services market.  The idea was born thanks to the vision of founder Eduardo Soto, a former member of the National Legislative Assembly who borrowed the concept from similar vet hospitals-hotels more commonly seen in North America and Europe.  Both HVA locations boast operating rooms, recovery wards, ultrasound equipment, and even a special play room for pets.  Grooming services and pet supplies round off the amenities at HVA.

Soto believes there’s room for additional locations in Central America, a region that has seen significant interest in pampering pets.  In an earlier Reader’s Mail article, The Costa Rica Star provided information about the Tico attitude towards free-roaming community dogs and animal rights advocacy.  The new HVA development is a sign of a changing attitude in which pets are moving indoors.

Costa Rica is the New Proving Ground for Fast Food

BBC News and Restaurant Magazine profiled gourmet burger chain Smashburger and its current focus on using Costa Rica as a starting point before moving their operations to Latin America.  Richard Eisenberg, a former top executive at YUM brands (KFC, Pizza Hut and Taco Bell), will open a Smashburger location in 2012 and plans to develop a burger that will particularly appeal to Ticos’ growing appetite for fast food offerings.

This would be the second major burger chain inauguration in Costa Rica in a few months.  Southern California-based Carl’s Jr. Costa Rican debut took place back in November in the heart of Downtown San Jose, with Mall San Pedro and Plaza Real Cariari to follow, according to Revista Summa.

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

The Ministry of the Environment, Energy and Communications (MINAET in Spanish) declared 100 percent wireless coverage in Costa Rica earlier this week, according to digital news daily El Pais.  A little over 90 percent of the mobile customers are Kolbi subscribers, a testament to the strength of the former telephone monopoly held by the government-supported ICE.  Newcomers Claro and Movistar currently register less than 400,000 subscribers.

President Chinchilla applauded the modest inroads made by the foreign wireless operators in a statement in which she added: “The opening of our telecommunications market has generated important benefits, like a 24.8 percent increase of foreign direct investment, as well as job creation.”

Made in Costa Rica:  Tweet Land Game is Scrutinized

Labeled as the first game powered by real-time social media interaction, Tico-made Tweet Land made its debut in the App Store at the end of January.  The reviews are in:  Touch Arcade gave Tweet Land two and a half stars, citing chaotic gameplay but an attractive retro look.  App Spy posted a video review and applauded the game’s unique pixilated visuals and random-level generation that draws from Twitter events.

Tweet Land Video Review

Another highly anticipated and Tico-made mobile game will be coming soon to the iPhone.  Pota-Toss is described as the next Angry Birds, and La Nacion reported that the Finnish tech company Rovio –creators of Angry Birds- went as far as to offer a job to developers José Cayasso and Phillipe Casorla, a proposition the Tico programmers respectfully declined.

La Florita:  First Carbon-Neutral Community

Costa Rica’s goal of becoming a carbon-neutral nation by 2021 will be an easier endeavor thanks to small towns like La Florita in Pococi.  La Florita’s owes its low carbon footprint to the scientific research support of Anyelo Moya and Tony Arevalo of EARTH University in Guanacaste, the same school that houses the space exploration research of Dr. Franklin Chang Diaz’ Ad Astra Rocket Company.

La Florita is a 100 percent agricultural community that is dedicated to growing root vegetables, papaya and the raising of livestock. Farmers practice reforestation and other advanced sustainable techniques that take advantage of composting to develop biofuels that can be used for cooking.  Other carbon-neutral practices ensure that residents of La Florita stay within the community for most, if not all, of their needs.  Source:  Costa Rica Hoy

SPORTS

The National Union of Footbal (UNAFUT) is taking a strong stance against prejudice, hate speech and intolerance.  Team owners and coaches recently sat down to iron out rules that would suspend First Division games indefinitely in case of racist epithets or displays from the players or fans.  UNAFUT will assign commissioners to observe the conduct of everyone involved at league games, and will have the power to confer with referees and suspend games immediately based on their judgment.  Monetary fines, suspensions and shaming in the national media would be assessed against perpetrators.  Source:  Univision Sports

High Endurance Tica Will Race to the Chirripo Summit

Fresh off her participation in the Coastal Challenge earlier this month, endurance athlete Ligia Madrigal will be racing to the top of Mount Chirripo in late February.  Ligia recently ran 233 km over several days, negotiating mountain trails, crossing rivers and dashing through coffee plantations.  Besides her career as a high-endurance trailblazer, Ligia is a champion cheerleader, ranks a Black Belt in Karate, is an accomplished mountain bike racer, and dedicated mother.

LIFESTYLE AND ENTERTAINMENT

Recent statistics released by the Supreme Electoral Tribunal, Diario Extra and news agency Prensa Latina indicate that 2011 saw record number of divorces among Tico couples.  Over 12,000 couples untied the knot last year.  The figures seem to indicate that Tico couples are increasingly opting to engage in civil unions rather than going the ecclesiastical route, despite the country’s strong Catholic inclination.  According to a poll conducted by CID-Gallup, more Costa Rican couples choose February as their favorite month for nuptials, while September seems to be an ideal month to seek formal separation and divorce.

In Search for the Next Miss Costa Rica

Many Ticos think that it will be difficult to find a more enchanting Miss Costa Rica than Johanna Solano, the beauty who captivated hearts during the last Miss Universe pageant, but event modeling and event organizer firm Global Entertainment is betting that the next hopeful will come from Guanacaste.  From now until February 19, the Best Western Hotel El Sitio in Liberia will be hosting auditions.  One of the first beauties scouted by Global Entertainment is Adriana Hernandez.

Welcome to the peculiar world of motorcycle trials, an extreme variation of motocross that calls for a lightweight dirt bikes with a specialized suspensions and no seats. There is a great deal of rider skill and balance involved, and the obstacles call for a high degree of creativity and handling. Bike trials draw upon the freestyle ethos of mountain biking, BMX and skateboarding, and like many other fun extreme activities in our country, it is gaining certain popularity. Here is a photo set that The Costa Rica Star photographers recently captured, if you want to take a close look at the action.

Just like Costa Rica is a surfers’ paradise due to its gorgeous beaches and clean breaks on both coasts, and a mountain bike paradise due to the miles of pristine and challenging trails, and a skater’s paradise due to the uneven topography and careless architecture and construction, bike trials enthusiasts have it made here thanks to rocky spots in San Antonio de Escazu and el Alto de las Palomas, the rocky beaches of Playa Carrillo in Guanacaste, and many other seemingly inhospitable terrains.

Motorcycle trials, also known as observed trials, enjoy more popularity in Europe and some countries in South America than in Central and North America. Trials aren’t necessarily speed events. Unlike other motorcycle events where riders must get from point A to point B in the shortest amount of time, trials follow the freestyle spirit of executing spectacular maneuvers across obstacles that even experienced mountain climbers with gear would avoid.

Bike trials require incredible balance and throttle control. Riders must be well acquainted with their motorcycle’s limitations and center of gravity. The idea is to get over the obstacles in a graceful manner, avoiding touching the ground with their feet, an action that is akin to a personal and technical foul in other sports. Prods and dabs, as these fouls are called, are the bane of every trials bike rider. The riders must become one with their iron horses, so to speak, in order to succeed at bike trials.

A less graceful and super-extreme form of trials can be seen on the popular ESPN X Games. The event is called Enduro X; a crazy race that combines indoor motocross, freestyle and endurance. On Enduro X events, riders struggle against each other and they can dab as often as they want. If they launch off into the air is not because of design; it is rather a byproduct of wanting to reach the finish line first and in one piece.

Motorcycle trials call for endurance, creativity and patience. Riders are judged for their skill and ability to avoid dabbing, as well as for their prowess executing tricks such as wheelies, full-on air, side traction, rear-tire pivoting, and others.

THE NATIONAL TRIALS TOURNAMENT

Trials are getting better organized in Costa Rica, and the first national tournament is taking place this Sunday at the Alto de las Palomas in Escazu, starting at 10AM. Patricio Castiglioni and Valerio Pastorino are helping advance bike trials in our country, and if everything turns out as planned, their hard work will pay off by bringing the first Latin American indoor trial tournament here later this year.  The tournament is taking place on the same weekend that the FISE extreme sports festival is going on at La Guacima, so Tico fans of extreme activities are in for a treat.

When I wrote Happier Than A Billionaire: Quitting My Job, Moving to Costa Rica, & Living the Zero Hour Work Week, I wanted to share with others my experience of quitting the rat race to finding a happier lifestyle. It’s never easy picking up and moving to a country where you don’t know the language, but I knew the hectic life I was living was not working. There was a time I wondered if I was going to spend the rest of my life stuck in the office, a destiny infinitely scarier than the idea of moving to Central America.

There is something truly unique about Costa Rica that many people find irresistible. I can be at the top of a volcano one morning and at the beach by the afternoon. I can live in the mountains and enjoy temperatures in the mid 70’s°F, or settle in a hot beach town and learn to surf or paddleboard. I want to experience it all, and there is still so much more to accomplish.

However, I am not in a race anymore. The first thing you learn in Costa Rica is to take your time. Not everything here is done at the rate I was used to in the states. But on the flip side, one learns to take your time, have patience, and treat others with kindness. Whenever I am in a crowded bank with only a few tellers handling the large crowd, seniors and disabled people go directly to the front of the line. No one rolls their eyes, or huffs and puffs. This is the type of friendliness and respect that gets eroded when we live a lifestyle that is too hectic. And once you get into this friendlier rhythm, it’s hard to imagine treating people any other way.

This journey has been fulfilling beyond my expectations. My book has become number one in two categories on Amazon and has been profiled on CNN.com. For me, Costa Rica has given me far more than the gift of happiness; it gave me a story to share with others.

I often wonder where I would be if I didn’t take the chance and move to Costa Rica. Would I still be in that office, staring out the window dreaming of another life? I want to go back in time and tap that overworked woman on the shoulder and tell her, “It’s okay; there is an adventure right around the corner…just hang in there.”

When you have more than one device to connect to the Internet, you need a router. The router now becomes the end-point for the ISP. The router configuration defines a private internal network. The most common private network address begins with the numbers 192.168. What is important is that a private network IP address cannot be routed to the Internet. Thus, an outside hacker could see the router, but not the devices connected to its network. It is the job of the router to make sure that a request from a device to an Internet site receives the response. For example, if you have three computers in your network that are watching different YouTube videos, the routers make sure that each device only receives the data for the video that it is playing. When a device connects to the network, the router sends it the information it needs to connect to the Internet using DHCP (Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol). The router also acts as a firewall to keep hackers from trying to penetrate the internal network. The challenge is selecting a router.

When I set out to buy a router in Costa Rica, I knew that I wanted a wireless router that supported the IEE 802.11 b/g/n standard. The letters b/g/n tell you something about the connection speed between the device and the wireless router, and reflect the growing demand for higher speed. I have some older devices that only supported IEEE 801.11g standard, and a few that supported the current IEEE 802.11n standard, which supports the highest transfer speed. I also wanted a router that could connect to a cable modem or a USB data card. I really also wanted a router that supported VPN (see my article on proxy servers for more details on Virtual Private Networks), as I really did not want to configure VPN on every device. After two days of searching on the Internet and calling stores, I found a router that met all my requirements, except for VPN. I wish I had known about Tico Movil, as they have the router I wanted.

Tico Movil doesn’t just sell the router. They sell a Buffalo wireless router (with speeds upto 300 Mbs, and LAN speeds of 10/100/100 Mbs) that is already configured for VPN, optimized, and with the latest software release for the router. If you have a VPN cable router, they will configure and update the software for you. They also provide a Do-It-Yourself service that includes any software upgrade to your router. If you are not sure if your router qualifies as a VPN router, then just call them with the make, model, and serial number. Tico Movil also provides a number of other services including a complete WiFi HotSpot Solution.

Tico Movil sells you the router, but you need to purchase a subscription plan for the VPN service. They recommend Strong VPN as a VPN service provider. Strong VPN is one of the top five VPN service providers, and is a costs less than Hide My Ass. However, Strong VPN does not have a monthly plan, like Hide My Ass does, which may be better for personal or small business needs. Their plans are for three, six, and twelve months. If you have a mobile device, you may also want to install VPN on that device, for those cases where you are not connected to your VPN router. However, Strong VPN allows only one connection to the Internet at a time for a single account.

If you run a business that requires an IP address in another country, then VPN is for you. If have multiple devices that need to connect through one VPN connection, then you need a VPN router. If you have an Internet capable TV that connects to Hulu, you need a VPN router. Whenever, you have multiple devices that require VPN services, it is best to use a VPN router.

Carlos has only been tackling Pipe’s giant barrels for three years, but this year he has shown great improvement and that can be clearly seen in his booming confidence at the world’s most deadly wave. Carlos’s perfect barrel will arguably be considered Carlos’s springboard into what looks to be a long and promising surf career. This could also be considered one of the greatest accomplishments for any Costa Rican surfer on the world stage. Carlos eventually lost out in the quarters and finished equal ninth, which is highly commendable considering the vast talent pool of Pipe specialist in the contest. Muñoz has now shown the rest of the surfing world that Costa Rica does have the ability to produce world class athletes that are more than capable of competing in what many consider to be the most challenging and defining wave in the world. As a past high school student in Costa Rica and a as surfer, to watch Carlos perform at such a high level was truly inspirational. I recall myself watching his round three heat where he would go on to defeat Pipe phenomenon and champion John John Florence in utter disbelief. He surfed with poise and grace well beyond his years.

As the contest loomed on Carlos began to garner quite a fan base, even though he was an underdog. It became obvious that even the contest commentators wanted Carlos’s Cinderella story to come true. Dave Wassell a fellow Volcom team rider, lifeguard and commentator comically stated “I want to go up to Carlos and just give him a big man hug.” It became apparent that Muñoz’s positive attitude and his likeable demeanor began to rub off on other contestants, commentators and surf fans alike. This sentiment was of course what we all know as “pura vida.” Carlos did not go on to win the contest, but in my eyes he won the hearts of many surf fans around the world and this can be just as valuable as a first place finish. It will great to see how Carlos’s surf career blossoms throughout the year, and I am sure I will not be the only person following his progress. Congratulations Carlos you have certainly solidified your position amongst the world’s surfing elite.

Here is an old video of Carlos doing his thing in the waves…

What do you do if you have a dog or cat that you cannot care for any longer here in Costa Rica (due to sickness or family emergency). Is there an ASPCA-style organization here that will help with animal relocation?

Hello Ana, thank you for taking the time to write, and thanks for your concern. We have several organizations dedicated to animal control, rescue, adoption, and humane treatment. If you are unable to care for your pet for the reasons you stated in your question, or for any other reasons, our advice is that you contact one of the organizations we will discuss below. These organizations are managed and administered by animal lovers, and many of them have English-speaking staff members and hard-working volunteers.

Costa Rica has a pretty good track record before the international community when it comes to wildlife preservation and rescue efforts. In the past, we have written about the unique sloth sanctuary in Cahuita, Limon. Our government-sponsored Instituto Nacional de Biodiversidad (INBIO) coordinates several wildlife rescue and protection efforts around the country. Such efforts are in line with our ecological-minded goals and commitment to sustainability that we have previously discussed here in The Costa Rica Star; but unfortunately, we are falling short of our goals when it comes to our relationship with domesticated animals.

Prior to the Dog Whisperer Cesar Millan‘s recent visit to our country, he delivered a scathing admonishment of puppy mills in Costa Rica, a highly lucrative and irresponsible practice that has sadly grown over the last few years as pet owners gravitate towards more towards fashion breeds, like the miniature dogs carried in the purses of celebrity icons such as Paris Hilton. And that’s just one of the problems; several animal rights organizations noticed an increase in the abuse and neglect of Tico pets, something that moved our legislators to pass laws increasing the rights of domesticated animals and issuing tough criminal penalties to abusers.

Then there’s the issue of stray dogs and cats, which is often misunderstood by overly concerned foreigners, particularly by ecotourists. The fact that many Ticos don’t attach a collar or leash to their dogs goes against the pet-keeping standards in Europe and the anglophone nations in North America. Many dogs are allowed to roam the neighborhood, where they often form packs; an expected behavior that can be explained by the gregarious nature of some canine species. These packs can appear fearsome to visitors who are not accustomed to allowing their dogs to socialize in their neighborhoods at home, but it’s a common sight in Costa Rica. Many stray dogs are fed and cared for by the community at large, some are unsuccessfully adopted by well-meaning families who later find out that zaguates (Tico mutts) aren’t too fond of leashes. The risk of neighborhood packs going feral is mostly exaggerated.

The difference between a free-roaming community zaguate and a stray dog that needs to be rescued should become apparent to pet owners. If a dog (or, less often, a cat) is visibly sick or rib-thin, then it may require humane assistance. If it seems to respond positively to human communication, then it is probably being cared for by the community and is simply enjoying the outdoors. By the way, the correct way to engage with free-roaming zaguates is to give them space. Zaguates typically respond to the following commands:

• Venga! – When said with enthusiasm, means “come here!”
• Bss, Bss, Bss – When said repeatedly and enthusiastically, also means “come here!”
• Shhhhh! – When said loud and sternly means “go away!”

The following organizations are run by really cool and humane humans who are proactively involved in improving the lives of animals in Costa Rica. Most of them are heavily reliant on social media to coordinate their efforts.

Asociación Costarricense de Rescate Animal ARA

A quick glance at the Facebook wall of Rescate Animal will give you a good idea of how busy and active they are. They provide street-level rescue, promote responsible adoption practices, coordinate temporary shelter efforts, and more. When Jaco-based Krystel Byers-Silverstein, a smoldering-hot Tica model who now manages the trendy Le Loft club in Jaco, lost a dog named Dinga in the vicinity of Playa Hermosa of Garabito, she quickly reported Dinga’s missing status to Rescate Animal. Dinga had already been rescued and placed into adoption by the beautiful Krystel, who is a passionate animal lover, and yet she became very concerned when Dinga disappeared from her new family. Krystel is a perfect example of the people who make Rescate Animal such a magnanimous organization. For those looking to adopt an adorable zaguate or a cute kitten, Rescate Animal is a great place to contact.

Telemaraton Canina

This media-savvy organization coordinates a telethon for the benefit of pets in need, particularly dogs. They are associated with a number of animal protection groups in Costa Rica, and they operate a telephone hotline to report abuse.

Stop Animal Suffering Yes! (SASY)

If you ever walk down the pedestrian boulevard of Avenida Central in downtown San Jose you’ll notice the stylish row of sculptures dedicated to our stray zaguates who roam the surroundings of the Mercado Central (where they are routinely fed by the grocers). The zaguate parade was coordinated by the suave Mayor Johnny Araya, an animal lover and charismatic politician who’s earned the nickname of Giulani Araya, due to his populist appeal that draws comparisons with former New York City Mayor Rudy Giulani. One of the sculptures is dedicated to SASY, a group that does tons of good work towards important efforts such as veterinary care, spaying and neutering, monitoring the stray dog population, and much more.

Tierras Enamoradas

This ecotourist resort is located in the midst of 109 hectares of cloud forest near San Ramon. Besides running the hotel in sustainable manner, the staff of Lands in Love cares for over 100 dogs and cats in their property. They have contacts in the animal rescue community that can help with ensuring that pets are well-cared for. This is also a cruelty-free hotel that offers vegetarian and vegan meals.

McKee Project

At McKee we approach animal welfare very differently from main stream rescue organizations: we believe that if communities are not involved in the solution, animals will never lead better lives.

Thus, we aim to change how people view and treat their animals, to improve veterinary skills, to create a new veterinarian/client relationship and to provide a framework for communities to sustainably and humanely lower the overpopulation of dogs and cats without building shelters or resorting to mass euthanasia.

As we all know the road to animal advocacy is long and arduous in developing nations: we aim to travel it starting a revolution in every community we visit, moving forward towards a better future for all the furry wanderers of this world.

A.H.P.P.A. Animal Shelter of Costa Rica

The Refugio is a legally registered non-profit organization, an animal shelter in Costa Rica under the name, “Asociacion Humanitaria Para la Proteccion de Animal” (AHPPA) and in English translates to, “Humanitarian Association for the Protection of Animals.” Residents of Costa Rica can make tax deductible donations to AHPPA via checks or deposits to local banks.

There are many other organizations dedicated to animal rights and welfare in Costa Rica. We welcome the input of our readers in this regard; if you know of a group that is worth mentioning here, please let us know in the comments section.

Internet enabled featured phones and smartphones often support tethering to the phones modem using a USB cable, or Bluetooth. When acting as just a modem, your phone connects a single device to the Internet via the phone. It is similar to connecting to the Internet via a cable modem connected directly to your computer.

The modem’s job is to convert signals from one communications protocol to another protocol. Thus, the phone converts GPRS (General Packet Radio Service) or UTMS (Universal Mobile Telecommunications System) to a data signal required by a USB cable or for Bluetooth. For GSM feature phones, the problem is the speed of the Internet service.

GPRS is a GSM technology standard for sending data over a voice network. GPRS is an old technology, and only supports a maximum speed of 48 Kbps. EDGE (Enhanced Data rates for GSM Evolution) is a newer version of GPRS that supports data speeds up to 128Kbps. However, the actual data rate is highly subject to loading of the GSM network. UTMS, however, operates on a separate cell phone band and supports much higher data rates. Costa Rica cell phone services support GPRS, EDGE, and UTMS.

Every phone implements the USB cable, or Bluetooth, connection between the phone and a computer in a different way. To make an Internet connection to the phone from your computer, you will have to read the manual for your phone.

Turning a phone into a WiFi hotspot is an alternative for smartphones. Although your phone may be able to connect to a WiFi hotspot, it may not support being a WiFi hotspot. It all depends on the WiFi chip set used in the phone. The advantage of WiFi tethering is that you can tether five to eight devices to the phone.

For Android phones, you need to check the phone specifications in your phone manual, usually in one of the appendixes. If you can’t find your manual, you can find the specifications at GSM Arena. If the WLAN entry contains the words “WiFi hotspot,” your phone can act as a WiFi hotspot. In order to configure the phone as a WiFi hotspot, you will need to download an app from the Android Market. There are a number of apps that do not require you to root the phone, such as Quick Settings and WiFi HotSpot / WiFi Tether.

For Nokia phones, you need to install the JoikuSpot app from the Ovi Market. I would recommend buying JoikuSpot Premium as it allows you to password protect your network. With the free version, your phone becomes a public WiFi hotspot. I have used JoikuSpot on a Nokia E71 and a Nokia E5. You can check to see if your phone is compatible at the Joiku website.

Before using your phone as a WiFi hotspot, you should make a few configuration changes. You should change the Network SSID (Network name) to a more unique name, and you need to set a password. Unless your WiFi hotspot is password protected, it is a public WiFi hotspot, so take care to use a strong password and protect yourself (and your private information).

There is one caveat to using a phone as a WiFi hotspot. An actual WiFi router operates in network infrastructure mode, while a phone operates in network ad-hoc mode. The phone is not a real network router. An ad-hoc network does not create an internal network, nor does it act as a DHCP server. Rather the phone makes a peer-to-peer connection with each device. This means that the connected devices act like they are tethered to the phone’s modem. In this sense, it is similar to tethering with a USB cable, or Bluetooth. This should not a problem for laptops, iPod Touches, or iPads. However, it is a problem for Android tablets, as they will not connect to an ad-hoc WiFi hotspot. Solving this problem does require root access to Android tablet.

Santa Teresa, Costa Rica, Feb 1st 2012 – Central America has had a very turbulent history over the past 150 years, and in many regions, instability is still the norm. However, throughout all of this chaos, one country has risen up to become an example for the rest. Costa Rica now stands as the jewel of the isthmus, emerald green jungles and cobalt blue oceans entice visitors from across the globe.

Becoming one of the top tourist destinations in the world was something Costa Rica was destined for. The tiny Central American country offers each person something unique, whether they come to study wildlife, relax on quintessential white sand beaches, explore virgin jungle, amongst many other things. In the 1970’s it was mainly surfers and venture capitalists that frequented this place, that however, is not the norm anymore.

While surfing is still a major attraction in Costa Rica, there are many other activities taking huge strides here in the country. Mountain biking and endurance cycling have become a national focus, with some of the toughest races in the world taking place here. The rugged terrain and varied climates make Costa Rica a multi-faceted box of wonders for everyone. Cool, even cold mountain towns boast some of the best coffees in the world, grown on the slopes of volcanoes, routinely winning awards all over the world. The majority of gourmet coffee production happens in an area known as Los Santos, and Tarrazu in the central mountain range.

The coastline of Costa Rica is as varied as you could ever want; with everything from sweeping white sand beaches to secluded lava rock inlets, estuaries, mangrove swamps, if you are a fisherman it presents a myriad of unique opportunities to catch some of the world’s most prized game fish. World record Snook, Rooster, and Sailfish have all been caught in Costa Rica, with fishing being another of the main attractions here.

For the past 30 years, the Central Pacific coast has been the forefront of competitive fishing and fishing derby’s, specifically, the town of Quepos. Several tournaments a year attract hopeful anglers from all over the world, for the money, but also for the excitement and bragging rights of catching one of the most rewarding fish in the sea. More sailfish have been caught here than most other places in the world, with frequent record breakers, some even caught by the same people.

In recent years, the attraction of less invasive fishing techniques has brought anglers from all over to chase down aggressive salt water fish. Snapper, Rooster and Jack Crevalle all offer exceptional fights, and can all be caught from the surf. The number of people seen fishing from kayaks and Stand Up Paddle boards has dramatically increased. In the event that no fish are caught, it’s still a very nice way to spend some time on the water.

Costa Rica is a complex country, a mixing pot of cultures, both regional and foreign, with so many people wanting to experience something truly unique. Family trips have become the norm, with extended vacations turning into semesters abroad on a regular basis. Schools offering distance education have seen a rise in enrollment because parents want to bring their children to the tropics for a year or two.

With recent improvements in telecommunications, it’s a very realistic possibility to make sure the kids are getting their school done in between canopy tours, jungle hikes and fishing trips. There is nothing better than hands on learning, and for those looking to make a lasting impression on their children, this country has become a huge attraction. Spanish being the official language, it’s also a good opportunity to have children learn a second language, being that they pick it up so quickly from an early age.

Costa Rica is on the cusp of a momentous shift in prosperity as the world faces economic uncertainty. The next few years will decide just how popular this place really gets, but at the moment it is one of the best places in the world to live, and has been for a very long time. More people are making the necessary moves to relocate here on a permanent basis; they see this as a place where they can have a prosperous future. Cristobal Colon had the same thoughts when he found the place all those hundreds of years ago, promptly naming it the “Rich Coast.” It’s rich in many ways, you just need to find out which one suits you the best. Tourism will always be a driving factor in the Costa Rican economy, and things are getting easier and easier for tourists to enjoy everything this country has to offer. Enticed by the allure of a mysterious jungle getaway, many have fallen in love with Costa Rica; many more have yet to realize just what they are missing.