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February 05, 2012
First Ticos Trapped In Panama Back Home
Paso Canoas - The first group of Ticos (Costa Ricans) trapped in Panama because of the blockade by indigenous, were back in Costa Rica Saturday.
Read
February 05, 2012
Costa Rica Advises Against Travel To Panama's Boca del Toro
At the request of the Foreign Ministry, the Comisio Nacional de Emergencias (CNE) - National Emergency Commission - has called on the media to notify the public, especially the inhabitants of the southern Caribbean region to refrain from travelling to Panama's Boca del Toro and Changuinola. Read
February 05, 2012
Family Denied Entry Into Costa Rica For Short Passport Expiry
Who is responsible, the travel agent or airline? The debate is ongoing, however the reality is that a Kanata, Ontario (Canada) family is out some $6.000 and missed out on their vacation in Costa Rica. Read
February 05, 2012
CCJ President Accuses Costa Rica Of Trying To Destroy Court
In an unusual move the president of the Corte Centroamericana de Justicia (CCJ) - Central American Court Of Justice -Francisco Lobo Lara, accused Costa Rica in the Nicaraguan press in trying to shut down the regional body and announced a diplomatic counteroffensive. Read
February 05, 2012
Love It Or Hate It, ICE Continues To Dominate Cellular Market in Costa Rica
You have to give Costa Rica's state telecom kudos for their marketing blitz and preventing what many thought would be the end of the institution with the opening of the telecommunications market and the arrival of foreign operators in the country. Read
February 05, 2012
Costa Rica's 'Marriage Machine' Gets 186 Years in Prison
The three-judge panel that tried and convicted lawyer/notary Kattia Salas, 41, to 186 years in prison called her "a marriage machine." She was sentenced for performing at least 31 "paper marriages" so that foreigners could get residency. Read
January 29, 2012
Cadastral Map Will Give Costa Rica's Property Owners and Buyers More Security
A new way to identify properties around the country through a cadastral map is the aim of the Registro Nacional (National Register) by implementing a real estate certificate, that includes a two dimensional aerial view of the land or property, detailed information of the area and location and legal information. Read
January 29, 2012
Woman Gets Run Around At CCSS Over Ruptured PIP Implant
So much for the rhetoric, a woman with an ultrasound confirming that one of her Poly Implant Prostheses (PIP) breast implants was broken, was denied service by the Caja Costarricense de Seguro Social (CCSS), despite the words by the Caja's director and the ministra de Salud to the contrary. Read
January 29, 2012
Most In Costa Rica Did Not Believe Figueres' Explanations in Alcatel Case, Poll Shows
Depends on how you look at it, but the numbers are firm, 86% of Costa Ricans did not, while 12% did believe the explanations of former president Jose Maria Figueres Olsen (1994-1998) over the the receipt of a consulting fee from the French telecommunications firm, Alcatel. Read
January 29, 2012
Presidenta Stresses Sustainable Development and Improving Living Conditions in Cost Rica
Coinciding with the Socialist International Council meeting in San José this week, a few political events that are sure to stoke the fire in the next General Elections were propelled by local news media outlets, offering a glimpse at the growing political divide and how the media is playing an influential role. Read
January 29, 2012
Saprissa Strikes Deal With Philadelphia
The Philadelphia Union have a new partnership. The team has struck a strategic partnership with Costa Rica's premier soccer club, the Deportivo Saprissa. The deal will feature a relationship in training, player development, and operations. Read
January 22, 2012
Costa Rica Promotes Tourism Of The San Juan River
Alfio Piva, Costa Rica's second vice-president, on Saturday proposed that the residents of Tiricias de Cutris and other border communities to join the government to undertake a tourism development plan for the San Juan river along the border with Nicaragua. Read
January 22, 2012
Costa Rica, A Country Without A Traffic Law!
The current Ley de Tránsito (Traffic Law) has a short life remaining, one could say it has been on life-support since its implementation on March 1, 2010 and may soon be in the ground due to the large number of appeals before the Constitutional Court. Read
January 22, 2012
Paving Of Paseo Colon Covered Up Sewers And Manholes
Before the end of last year and time for the December parades it was announced that the re-paving of Paseo Colon was complete and the headaches faced by drivers for months was over and done with it. Read
January 22, 2012
San José: Smoke-Free Family Sundays
Today restarts the municpalidad de San José's "smoke-free Family Sundays" with the closing off of Paseo Colon to vehicular traffic, allowing the opportunity for families, the elderly, the young and children, to enjoy outdoor activities in one of the city's most beautiful and historic area. Read
January 22, 2012
Pipasa Fine Example to World
Exceptional and exemplary performance’ - that’s the description Cobb gave to Corporación PIPASA of Costa Rica in recognizing it as the leading company within the Mexican, Central America and Caribbean market and ranking it 9th country in the world on breeder results. Read
January 22, 2012
Acosta Scores Twice As Costa Rica Tops Haiti in Olympic Qualifying
VANCOUVER, British Columbia - Wendy Acosta scored twice in the second half Saturday and Costa Rica defeated Haiti 2-0 in Olympic qualifying. Read
January 16, 2012
Costa Rica's Public Workers Unions Threaten Strike
Brace yourself today for a workers strike that may or may not happen, as leaders of the unions of public sector employees prepare themselves to take action against the government's unilateral decision to increase public employees salaries ¢5.000 monthly. Read
January 16, 2012
The Least Expensive Might Cost More!
The issue of defective breast implants raises some serious questions, not only for Costa Rica but for all those countries who used them only because they were or are much cheaper than those implants which do not leak or burst. Read
January 16, 2012
Luxury Home Tax Due Today
For owners of a luxury home in Costa Rica today is the last day to pay the tax on such homes. Read
January 16, 2012
80% of Arrests In Palmares Are Drug Related
Not surprising 80% of all detentions at the Palmares Festival are drug related, according to the Fuerza Pública (police) in charge of keeping order during the annual festival west of San José. Read
January 16, 2012
17 Border Crossings at Teatro Jacó
Teatro Jacó announces the second production of its inaugural season: 17 Border Crossings. This internationally acclaimed play arrives at Teatro Jacó Costa Rica directly from Madrid on a world tour. Read
January 16, 2012
Expocasa Around The Corner
Expocasa, the annual home show in San José, Costa Rica is around the corner, opening its doors from January 25 to 29, held at the Centro de Eventos Pedregal in San Antonio de Belén, Heredia. Read
January 08, 2012
La Reforma Riot Leaves One Inmate Injured And Confirms The Ticking Time Bomb In Costa Rica's Prisons
Costa Rica's prison system is a ticking time bomb and the La Reforma, the country's largest and holder of the worst criminals, is at the top of the list. Read
January 08, 2012
Costa Rica Police Seize 1.36 tons of Cocaine In Two Days
Following an anonymous tip led Costa Rican authorities to a startling discovery, a ton of cocaine buried in the sand on the beaches of Quepos. Read
January 08, 2012
Avenida Segunda To Get A Make Over
Before the holidays the Consejo Nacional de Vialidad (Conavi) worked on repairing and resurfacing Paseo Colón, now it will start work on Avenida Segunda that crosses through downtown San Jose from the hospital San Juan de Dios on the west and Cuesta de Moras on the east. Read
January 08, 2012
Organization Vows To Keep CAP on Crime In The Southern Zone
CAP on Crime is a group of concerned and determined citizens, residents, non-residents, frequent visitors, and business owners who want to ensure their area - the Southern Zone - stays safe and beautiful for all and to prevent crime from detracting how special this area is. Read
December 31, 2011
Higher Traffic Fines, Rise In The Cost Of Tolls and New Tax(es) Tomorrow in Costa Rica
Tomorrow is a new year and with comes a series of "automatic" price increases and taxes and well, a higher cost of life, in Costa Rica. Read
December 31, 2011
Health Officials Warn Of Contaminated Food At Zapote
The Zapote Fair is a family tradition for many, for besides the toros (bulls), there is the traditional fast foods full of grease, fat and other delicious ingredients. Read
December 31, 2011
FERISTSA - The Mexico - Panama Railway
FERISTSA was the name of a proposed 2,575.0 km (1,600-mile) USD$3 billion privately owned commercial railroad going from the Panama Canal Railway Company through the entire length of Central America, linking with Mexico's rail system at the Guatemala border, and thus to the United States of America. Read
December 31, 2011
Figueres - Chinchilla, The Novela Part 1.1
Casa Presidencial made public yesterday that presidenta Laura Chinchilla did after all meet with former president Jose Maria Figueres Olsen. Read
December 31, 2011
INCOFER: Cartago Next Year, Alajuela The Next And Then Puntarenas and Limón
Starting next month will be work on the commuter train to Heredia and Alajuela, as the Instituto Costarricense de Ferrocarriles (INCOFER) steams ahead with its plans to expand train service in the Central Valley. Read
December 25, 2011
Horses And Beer Part Of San José Festivities This Week
Today is Christmas Eve, tomorrow Christmas and the start of the Zapote Fair and Monday the big day for horses, the day of the "Tope Nacional" when more than 4.000 horses and their riders take over Paseo Colón. Read
December 25, 2011
Costa Rica: New Tax To Fund Drug Fight
Costa Rica's Legislators approved a new security tax on businesses late on Thursday as part of Central American efforts to improve funding for a crackdown on marauding drug cartels. Read
December 25, 2011
Figueres Says 'He Will Meet Requests' Of Legislative Commission
Former president José María Figueres Olsen, whose arrival in Costa Rica Thursday after years of absence, said he meet the requests of legislative commission to answer questions on his role in the payment to him of us$900 in consulting fees by the French telecom, Alcatel. Read
December 25, 2011
Interpol Seeking French Breast Implant Maker's CEO Wanted By Costa Rica
The chief executive of a French company whose questionable breast implants are under international scrutiny is on the Interpol police agency's most-wanted list. Read
December 25, 2011
Costa Rica's Peaceful Reputation At Risk From Drug Cartels
Costa Rica is Central America's most stable democracy, a peaceful country that abolished its army in 1948 and now draws nearly a million U.S. tourists a year to its national parks and beaches. But it's also right in the middle of the world's most lucrative cocaine trafficking corridor. Read
December 20, 2011
Costa Rica: Six Tránsitos Detained For Corruption
Ruta 27 or the San José - Caldera is a little cleaner this morning, clean of corruption that is, with the detention Monday of six Tránsitos (traffic officials) who took to shaking down drivers, demanding payment in return to not issue a traffic ticket. Read
December 20, 2011
Costa Rica's TSE Does Not Rule Out Wave Of Plebiscites
The first referendum in Perez Zeledon to remove its mayor is a first of its kind in Costa Rica and could be the start of of a wave of referendums says the Tribunal Supremo de Elecciones (TSE) - Elections Tribunal. Read
December 20, 2011
Customer Sues ICE For Lack Of Service
The Instituto Costarricense de Electricidad (ICE), the state telecom, is on trial being sued by a customer when he could not obtain a cellular signal when he was involved in a traffic accident and could not call 911 for help. Read
December 20, 2011
New York Students Bring Waste Removal Solutions to Costa Rica
Nine New York Institute of Technology architecture students will bring their creative designs and skills to Costa Rica to develop a recycling and education center, after thousands of people voted on Facebook. Read
December 20, 2011
Costa Rican Fugitive Captured in Hawaii
United States federal agents in Honolulu captured a Costa Rican man wanted in his native country for raping a 3-year-old child a decade ago, officials announced Monday. Read
December 20, 2011
Today, Last Day To Pay Aguinaldo
If you are an employer today is the last day to pay the Aguinaldo and if an employee, starting tomorrow you can file a claim against your employer with the Ministerio de Trabajo, if you don't get your Aguinaldo today. Read
December 20, 2011
Cerveceria Festival Returns in March
Music and beer lovers, give a cheer! After a four-year absence, the festival sponsored by Florida Bebidas, makers of the country's most popular beer - Imperial - has returned. Read
December 11, 2011
One Million On Hand For Festival de la Luz
It was magic, the simultaneous fireworks set off from different points in the downtown core and Paseo Colon, the floats, the marching bands, the lights of the television cameras, the children and their parents braving the chilly night air, all part of the Festival de la Luz (Light Festival) that officially ushers in the Christmas season in Costa Rica. Read
December 11, 2011
Counterfeit Colones On The Loose, Careful with Your Money
The holidays are a time to enjoy with friends and family. But is also a time to watch your money, literally, as counterfeit bills are easily circulated in the market. Read
December 11, 2011
With the Payment Of The Aguinaldo, Holiday Shopping Heats Up
If you wondered why in the last week the Avenidas and Calles of downtown San José and the shopping centres and malls around the country all of a sudden are filled with people, there is one simple answer, yes, Virginia, it is Christmas, but more important, it is the time of the "Aguinaldo". Read
December 11, 2011
Costa Rica: Study Reveals Increase In Sexual Harassment In The Work Place
Allegations of sexual harassment in the work place increased in 2011 over the previous year by more than 30 cases, according to a study by the Costa Rica's Instituto Nacional de la Mujer (INAMU) - National Institute of Women. Read
December 11, 2011
San Carlos Residents Halt Construction of Cell Phone Tower
If you live in the area of San Carlos and don't get a good cellular signal, the situation won't change any time soon and to blame are your neighbours, who in group have taken to halt the construction of a cell phone tower in the area. Read
December 11, 2011
Unlikely Toyota Will Install Plant in Costa Rica, Says Dealer
While in Japan, presidenta Laura Chinchilla hinted that the auto giant Toyota may be setting its eyes on Costa Rica for a new production plant. Read
December 04, 2011
Nicaragua's Opposition Asks The World Not To Recognize The Re-Election of Ortega
Daniel Ortega may have won the presidential elections in Nicaragua. Read
December 04, 2011
Costa Rica Police Reinforce Public Security For 'Aguinaldo' Season
"Operativo Aguinaldo" is an effort by Costa Rican police to protect you and your Christmas bonus from falling victim to crime. Read
December 04, 2011
Costa Rica Cuts Growth View On Global Economic Woes
(Reuters) - Costa Rica cut its estimate for 2011 growth to 4 percent this year as the small Central American nation is hit by weakness in the global economy, the central bank said this week. Read
December 04, 2011
Don't Drink And Drive During Holidays
December is a month of parties and then some. The Cruz Roja Costarricense (Costa Rican Red Cross) is making a plea to one and all for a safe holiday season. Read
December 04, 2011
Costa Rica's 2011 Personalities Of The Year Unveiled
Making the list of La Nacion's "Personajes 2011" this year are not all individuals, but such bodies as the Caja Costarricense de Seguro Social (CCSS), the "puente platina" and Cámaras de velocidad, which have come to almost have human characteristics. Read
December 04, 2011
December, The Month of The Tamal and Price Increases
Tamales - or more correctly tamal - is a tradition in December. A dish made of massa (a starch dough, usually corn-based), which is steamed or boiled in a leaf wrapper and filled with meats, cheese, vegetables, chilies or any preparation according to taste, warms the heart and stomach during the holiday season. Read
November 27, 2011
Costa Rica Anesthesiologists Strike Continues Without End In Sight
As anesthesiologists continue their now illegal strike we learn of the more than 2.000 surgeries at state hospital that have been postponed without thinking of the effect on the real losers, the patients. Read
November 27, 2011
Costa Rica: More Doctors Could Join Illegal Strike By Anesthesiologists
The 11 day strike by anesthesiologists, a strike that has been declared illegal, may get a boost of support on Monday when doctor members of the Unión Médica Nacional meet on Monday to consider the situation. Read
November 27, 2011
Rodrigo Arias Could Withdraw His 2014 Presidential Bid
Former ministro de la Presidencia and brother to two time president and Nobel prize winner Oscar, Rodrigo Arias, may be throwing in the towel for 2014. Read
November 27, 2011
Interamericana Sur Closed!
The Interamericana Sur or Ruta 2 is once again closed due to flooding of the road in the area of Casa Mata. Read
November 27, 2011
Manpower Costa Rica Looking To Hire 50 People Starting Tomorrow
Beginning Monday, Manpower in Costa Rica will be holding a job fair that offers 50 positions in the customer service sector. Read
November 27, 2011
'Barra Libre' Open bar lucrative business in Costa Rica
There is nothing wrong with choosing to drink in a safe and responsible way at a party. Alcohol is the main staple at most parties without ever causing a problem. But, what about when there are minors, only minors involved? Read
November 20, 2011
Costa Ricans Hopeful State Can Solve Crime and Drug Trafficking Problem
Survey reveals insecurity the main concern of Ticos. Crime is the main concern of Costa Ricans according to a study Latinobarómetro. But, this is nothing new for the government of Laura Chinchilla, since other similar studies this year have yielded the same result. Read
November 20, 2011
Costa Ricans Live Better, Happier Than The Rest In The Region
Despite the increase in crime and insecurity and the Plan Fiscal (Tax Plan) being shoved down their throats by the government, Ticos (Costa Ricans) are better off than others in the region. Read
November 20, 2011
Costa Rica's Hotel And Tourist Operators Concerned About Possible Fall In Tourism Season
Hotel and tour operators in Costa Rica are not very optimistic about the country's hotel occupancy for the coming high season. Even less if you review the results compared to the high season of November 2009 to March 2010 where the occupancy reached 70%. Read
November 20, 2011
Strike By Anesthesiologists In Costa Rica Continues
Anesthesiologists in Costa Rica have been on strike since last Tuesday, disrupting surgeries at state fourteen hospitals, as they seek a 5% increase in "hazardous duty pay" and fifteen additional vacation days. Read
November 20, 2011
Costa Rica's Vehicle Importers Say Increasing Taxes Is Not The Solution
The Asociación de Importadores de Vehículos y Maquinaria (AIVENMA) - Association of Importers of Vehicles and Machinery - is just one but a score of organizations, both public and private, in opposition to the Plan Fiscal (tax reform) that is to make its way to the Legislative Assembly this week, after discussions in commission. Read
November 20, 2011
1,800 Drivers Fined This Year For Irregularities In Gas Emissions
Most drivers in Costa Rica do not concern themselves with vehicle gas emissions but once a year, when it is time to bring the family jalopy to the Riteve, the annual vehicular inspection. Read
November 13, 2011
Lottery and Tico Bingo Exempt From Proposed 14% Tax; Farmers Demand Same
Not subject to the 14% Impuesto de Valor Agregado (IVA) - Value Added Tax (VAT) - as proposed by the government in the Plan Fiscal, is lottery tickets and Tico Bingo. Read
November 13, 2011
Nicaraguan Soldiers Demand Stop To Road Work On Costa Rican Side
"Stop building over there" could have been the words shouted by Nicaraguan army soldiers to the private contractor from across their side of the border. Read
November 13, 2011
Canada, Costa Rica Look At Improving FTA
Negotiations have begun between Canada and Costa Rica on the proposed modernization of their existing free trade agreement (FTA), it has been announced. Read
November 13, 2011
Costa Rica's Arias Brothers Lose Public Support
Support for Costa Rica's former president Oscar Arias fell from 42.6 to 27 percent, and his brother Rodrigo Arias is the least loved candidate for the presidency in Costa Rica, according to a Escuela de Matemáticas de la Universidad de Costa Rica (UCR) survey released on Friday. Read
November 13, 2011
New Constitutional Court Appeal May Delay Marchamo
With only days to go before the 2012 Marchamo goes on sale, a new appeal on the legality of including unpaid traffic fines in the circulation permit has been filed, a situation that could cause delays this year. Read
November 13, 2011
Costa Rica Voted Best Stand At World Travel Market Show
Judges of the Word Travel Market (WTM) 2011 show chose Costa Rica's as best of the show for the combination of sound effects, music and general decoration recreating a tropical rainforest, which would make visitors feel as if they were in Costa Rica, and would certainly inspire them to visit the country. Read
November 06, 2011
Nicaragua Votes Today!
Nicaraguans go to the polls today to elect an new president, vice-president and legislators for the coming five years. Read
November 06, 2011
Nicaragua's Elections: The Importance Of 'Not Being Perfumado'
One fundamental reason underlies the success of Nicaragua's Sandinista government. It can be seen in any comparison of the situation of the Nicaraguan people with that of the peoples of Europe or North America. Read
November 06, 2011
Daniel Ortega Set For Nicaragua Election Victory But Heroic Sheen Wearing Off
He was the brilliant military strategist who helped lead Nicaragua's Sandinista rebels to victory, inspiring a generation of leftwingers with his revolutionary government's literacy programs and land reforms – and his defiance of the United States and CIA-backed "contra" counter-revolutionaries. And when Nicaragua votes in presidential elections on Sunday, Daniel Ortega is almost guaranteed victory. Read
November 06, 2011
Costa Rica: October With Lowest Number of Traffic Deaths In More Than A Decade
With only 14 traffic fatalities in October, road traffic deaths decreased during the last three months. Read
November 06, 2011
Claro Breaks Monopoly With Activation of First Cellular Lines
With limited coverage and with interconnection failures, Mexico's Claro once and for all broke the ICE monopoly on cellular telecommunications in Costa Rica. The Mexican firm, one of two to buy a license to operate, was ahead of Spain's Movistar to have their network operations. Read
November 06, 2011
Reader Write of Problems With Banco Nacional
I am a business owner in San Jose. We have some investors. We do our banking with Banco Nacional de Costa Rica. We helped our investors set up accounts in the same bank to make transfers easier. Read
November 06, 2011
Accused ML Scamsters Freed
The treasurer and accountant of the Movimiento Libertario (ML) political party investigated for fraud in the amount of ¢200 million colones didn't spend too much time in detention ordered release by a judge shortly after lunch on Saturday. Read
October 30, 2011
Happy Halloween!
Halloween in Central America is not nearly as popular as it is in the United States and Canada, it has quickly become a mainstream celebration in Costa Rica. Read
October 30, 2011
Santa Ana Residents To Continue Fight Against Tolls
Santa Ana residents are not about to let go of their efforts to stop the tolls in their area, following temporary suspension. No, they say they will continue to follow the process through the courts. Read
October 30, 2011
Expert Blames Improvisation For Failed Repairs To 'Platina' Bridge
Improvisation is the big mistake on "Platina" (Virilla0 bridge repairs says an expert hired by the Ministerio de Obras Públicas y Transportes (MOPT) as it prepares to seek a final settlement with the contractor. Read
October 30, 2011
Defining Route For North Section of Circunvalación Delayed
More than 20 years ago the plan for a ring road around San José was unveiled. Today, the ring - the Circunvalación - is still not complete, missing the north section that would pass through Calle Blancos and Tibás. Read
October 30, 2011
INS To Offer Road Side Assistance Policy With 2012 Marchamo
Starting with the sale of the 2012 Marchamo, the state insurer will be launching a road assistance policy to all vehicle owners. Read
October 30, 2011
Who Needs Halloween?
Halloween in Costa Rica is still considered a pagan holiday, a “gringo” import designed to seduce small children with candy towards the greater sugars of consumerism. Read
October 30, 2011
Former Security Officials Call To An End For Insecurity
Former members of the Fuerza Pública (police) and the Ministerio de Seguridad (Security Ministry) assure that the invasion of the Isla Calero by Nicaraguan troops was avoidable, blaming the lack of presence by Costa Rican athourities in the area and the disintegration of the border police. Read
October 23, 2011
101 Roads With 'Paso Regulado' and 41 'Closed', All Effects Of The Rains
More than 100 routes around the country are with "paso regulado" and 41 "completely closed" due to the ravages of the rains of the past two weeks. Read
October 23, 2011
Costa Rica Police Gets New Patrol Vehicles
Saturday morning the Fuerza Pública (national police force) took delivery of 16 new patrol cars. The vehicles are part of a major purchase of 77 units by the Ministerio de Seguridad, which will be used to police patrol work and national defence. Read
October 23, 2011
Zapote Fair Has Its Bull Ring
Christmas is two months away. At the Municipalidad de San José they are busy making plans for the year end activities known as Zapote, which kicks off Christmas day. Read
October 23, 2011
Are You a Phone Freak?
If you find yourself unable to go more than 15 minutes without reaching into your pocket, pulling out your smartphone and checking your e-mail or micro blog, don’t freak out. You are hardly alone. Read
October 23, 2011
Phone Freak Jargon From the Urban Dictionary
Phone Freak Out: The brief frantic search that occurs when you you think you've lost your cell phone only to find it right in your pocket. Read
October 23, 2011
How Long Can A Crocodiles Live?
In captivity crocodiles can live up to 60 years. In their natural habitat, rather, they have shorter life spans because they are prone to attack by pests and diseases. Read
October 16, 2011
More Rain On The Way, 143 In Shelters, 42 Roads Damaged
If you didn't think that it has rained enough, you're in for a treat, there is more rain on the way for today, tomorrow and possibly Monday, making this a really wet long weekend. Read
October 16, 2011
Will Costa Rica Tax Expats On Foreign Pension Income?
Expats can relax, a little. Don´t sell the farm and leave Costa Rica just yet. The Fiscal Plan (tax plan) is ambiguous, at best, and still in proposal form, not law. It will be debated and is on the schedule for December of this year. Read
October 16, 2011
Costa Rica: Mall Owners 'Obligated' To Pay For Stolen Vehicles
The next time you park your vehicle in a mall parking parking lot and it gets broken into, the owners of the commercial centre can be held liable, thanks to a decision by the Sala Primera de la Corte Suprema de Justicia. Read
October 16, 2011
U.S. Coast Guard Stops Costa Rican Fishing Boat Suspected of Carrying Hundreds of Kilos of Cocaine
The U.S. Coast Guard stopped another Costa Rican fishing boat, Miss Jacky, suspected of transporting a large amount of cocaine. The detention was made at sea in the Pacific coast. Read
October 16, 2011
Youth Network In Costa Rica Strives To Combat Xenophobia
Sitting around a large table in UNHCR's San José office, four young friends discuss a topical subject in Costa Rica that impacts directly on the lives of each of them. Read
October 16, 2011
Ticos Invade Colombian Waters Accused Of Killing Sharks
A total of ten Costa Rican vessels have been detained in Colombian waters, after a group of Russian divers discovered dead sharks on the island of Malpelo, in the Colombian Pacific coast. Read
October 09, 2011
Thousands In Support Of Fight Against Breast Cancer
Thousands put aside laziness for one day and went for a walk in solidarity in the fight against breast cancer. Read
October 09, 2011
Ortega: Nicaragua Will Not Beat The Drums of War Against Costa Rica
Nicaragua's president and candidate for re-election, Daniel Ortega, said on Saturday that his country will not beat the "drums of war" against Costa Rica in the dispute between the two nations over the Isla Calero and called on is counterpart, Laura Chinchilla, to resolve their difference through dialogue. Read
October 09, 2011
Costa Rica Monitoring AH1N1 Virus Alert In Nicaragua
Costa Rica's Ministra de Salud, Daisy Corrales, said that Costa Rica is monitoring the situation in Nicaragua following the confirmation of two cases of AH1N1 virus and the declaration of a health alert in that country on Friday. Read
October 09, 2011
Don't Eat Meat Today In Support Against Animal Abuse
Central to the Plaza de la Democracia in support against animal abuse, There will be activities in the centre of San José starting at 9am. Read
October 09, 2011
Legislative Commission To Discuss Reduction Of Fines and Community Work Instead of Jail For Reckless Drivers
Excessive speeding and drunk driving in Costa Rica can land a driver in jail. But, legislators are looking at applying a community work program instead in the continuing discussions of the reforms to the Ley de Tránsito (Traffic Act) that gets underway Monday. Read
October 09, 2011
Costa Rica: 40,000 Young Unemployed People
The Costa Rican Labour and Social Security Ministry (MTSS) confirmed Friday that a total of 40,000 young people are unemployed, or inactive in the local working market. Read
October 02, 2011
Costa Rica's Presidenta Prefers Private Hospital Over Public
Presidenta Chinchilla had gallbladder surgery Friday at Hospital Metropolitano in San José. Read
October 02, 2011
South Florida Natural For Costa Rica Trade Expansion
As the Gateway to Latin America, Miami has become home to many companies looking to expand trade and opportunities in the United States. Read
October 02, 2011
Costa Rica Artifacts Returned From New York Museum
Costa Rica will for the first time display a trove of artifacts, some believed to be more than 2,300 years old, after they were returned unbidden this month from the prestigious Brooklyn Museum in New York. Read
October 02, 2011
ICE Looking For a 24% Increase In Residential Electricity Rates
You can expect a whopping increase in electricity rates next year is the request by the Instituto Costarricense de Electricidad (ICE) is accepted by the government regulator of public prices and services. Read
October 02, 2011
MOPT To Add More Traffic Cameras; Banks Cash In On Special Traffic Camera Ticket Loans
While hundreds of drivers and vehicle owners line up the offices of the Consejo de Seguridad Vial (Cosevi) in La Uruca (San José) to appeal their traffic camera tickets, the Ministerio de Transportes is looking at adding more cameras. Read
October 02, 2011
Movistar And Claro Almost Ready To Take On Costa Rica
Although the television, newspaper and billboard ads are running, neither Movistar and Claro are yet offering an alternative wireless service to the state telecom. But, will be soon, in time for Christmas. Read
September 25, 2011
Live From the Interamericana North of Cuajiniquil
Interamericana Norte was blocked in both directions between Liberia and the Peñas Blancas border crossing, as truckers protested the lengthy lines to cross from Costa Rica into Nicaragua. Read
September 25, 2011
Costa Rica Tops In Money Laundering In Central America
Nestor Chavez, compliance officer for the Banco Centroamericano de Integración Económica (BCIE) - Central American Bank for Economic Integration - released in Costa Rica, the details of a study conducted of the countries of the region through which it was established that from 2000 to 2009, some us$14 billion dollars was the product of money laundering. Read
September 25, 2011
Controversy Over Bill Against Harassment in Costa Rica
Costa Rica experienced on Friday a climate of controversy over a bill aimed at preventing and punishing workplace harassment at private companies and public institutions in Costa Rica. Read
September 25, 2011
UAE Signs Open Skies Air Services With Costa Rica
The United Arab Emirates represented by the General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) has signed an “open skies” air services Memorandum of Understanding and initialed an Air Services Agreement with the Costa Rica. Read
September 25, 2011
Claims For Cellular Problems Divided
A recent opinion issued by the Procuraduría General de la República (PGR) - Attorney General's Office - established the division of powers of the Superintendencia de Telecomunicaciones (SUTEL) to address complaints about cellular service and cellular telephones. Read
September 25, 2011
Racsa Removes Website Restriction On Traffic Camera Infractions
Drivers no longer need to fill out the form and fax or email it and wait to receive the access key to learn of any traffic camera infractions. Read
September 18, 2011
Costa Rica's Chancellor Considers Nicaragua's Government A 'Xenophobic Enemy'
Costa Rica's Foreign Minister, Enrique Castillo, holds the Government of Nicaragua as a "xenophobic enemy" after the "invasion" of Costa Rican territory last October, a case that is being studied by the International Court of Justice in The Hague (ICJ). Read
September 18, 2011
September 18 - On This Day In History
September 18 is the 259th day of the year in the Gregorian calendar. There are 104 days remaining until the end of the year. 1502 – COSTA RICA - Christopher Columbus landed at Costa Rica during his 4th and last voyage. Columbus left 52 Jewish families in Costa Rica. Read
September 18, 2011
Costa Rica's Coffee Solves Identity Crisis
Coffee from Costa Rica just received a self-identity seal that sets it apart from ordinary coffee, as it lifts it to the category of “prestige” coffee. Read
September 18, 2011
401 Weapons in Police Armory Destroyed
The Ministerio de Seguridad Pública this past Wednesday destroyed a total of 401 firearms in the police armory located in Coronado, east of San José. Read
September 18, 2011
Costa Rica's Proposal Fiscal Plan (Tax Reform) Could Affect Exparts
Taxes and the all new tax plan (Plan Fiscal) is on the minds, if not on the lips, of all Costa Rica and most expats. Read
September 11, 2011
September 11: The Day the World Changed
September 11th, 2001 is one of those dates indelibly stamped in the memory and psyche of all Americans who are old enough to remember that fateful day Read
September 11, 2011
MOPT Gets To Keep Only 50% Of Fines From Traffic Cameras
We all quick to believe that all the fines from traffic tickets issued by the traffic cameras that went into operation on Thursday stay with the Ministerio de Obras Publicas y Transportes (MOPT). Read
September 11, 2011
ICE President Not Aware Of Strike Call By Unions
The president of the Instituto Costarricense de Electricidad (ICE), Teófilo de la Torre, says he is was unaware of the national strike call issued last week by the five unions associated with the institution. Read
September 11, 2011
Festival de la Luz To Be Held On December 10
Although it is too early to be thinking of Christmas, the Municipalidad de San José announced that this years "Festival de la Luz" will take place on Saturday, December 10, beginning at 6pm. Read
September 11, 2011
Progressive Youth Calls for Protest in Costa Rica
San Jose, Sept. 10 (Prensa Latina) Progressive Youth called the Costa Rican people to protest for the problems the nation is facing during the reception of the Torch of Independence, in Cartago, on September 14. Read
September 11, 2011
Israeli Arrested at Costa Rica's Liberia Airport With 20.000 Ecstasy Pills
Avi Revach 52, is a man of Israeli citizenship who was arrested Saturday by the Policía de Control de Drogas (PCD) - Drug Control Police, at the Daniel Oduber international airport in Liberia, with approximately 20 000 ecstasy tablets. The man arrived in Costa Rica from Brussels, Belgium. Read
September 04, 2011
Costa Rica Prepares For Digital TV
The end of the analog and beginning of digital television in Costa Rica which this to be implemented in December 2017 will be officially launched by the presidenta Laura Chinchilla on Tuesday. Read
September 04, 2011
More Landslides Await The San José - Calera
The problems on the San José - Caldera for this rainy season may just be beginning with the first landslide of last Thursday at kilometre 46, between Atenas and Orotina. Read
September 04, 2011
Costa Rica Filled With Baileys
Bailey bridges are very popular in Costa Rica, as more and more are erected in the country, taking the place of permanent bridges instead of being used as a temporary solution to a long term problem. Read
September 04, 2011
Nicaragua's Army Chief Says He Will Not Allow Encroachment Of Disputed Wetlands
The chief of Nicaragua's Army, General Julio Cesar Aviles, warned that "never will they allow the removal" of Nicaraguan territory, including the San Juan River and the wetland dispute with Costa Rica that is now before the International Court of Justice in The Hague (ICJ). Read
September 04, 2011
General Cañas At Virilla Closed This Morning
If your heading to or coming from the airport this Sunday morning keep in mind that the Virilla bridge on the autopista General Cañas will be completely closed to traffic between 5am to 11am Read
September 04, 2011
Drivers Will Have A 20 km/h Grace From Traffic Cameras
Although it yet unclear when the traffic cameras will begin functioning, the rules of the game of the road have been established, with the Minsterio de Obras Publica y Transportes (MOPT) issuing the rules of the camera's operation. Read
August 28, 2011
Belén Gets Serious About Its Garbage
The Municipalidad de Belén is taking its garbage seriously, conducting a study to determine the amount and types of solid waste produced in the canton in order to improve service. Read
August 28, 2011
Costa Rica's Red Cross Suspends The Transfer Of Patients To State Medical Centres
The Cruz Roja (Red Cross) says it will no longer provide ambulance transfer services to the Caja Costarricense del Seguro Social (CCSS) for the state health service owes it some ¢1.4 billion colones. Read
August 28, 2011
Contest Helps Promote Entrepreneurship in Costa Rica
"Esto Promete" will focus the project by Xinia Rebeca Motenzuma for the commercial development for the sustainable production of organic cocoa in the community of San Antonio de Paso Canoas, to promote entrepreneurship in Costa Rica. Read
August 28, 2011
Chinchilla Tells Mayors To Do More With Little
"We and as you, the local governments are called to do more than our share, but with very little resources". That is how president Laura Chinchilla put it to the municipal leaders across the country while visiting the Canton of Santa Cruz, Guanacaste. Read
August 28, 2011
Florida Artist Oversees Renovation of Sept. 11 Sculpture in Costa Rica
Ten years after the terror attacks that imprinted the date Sept. 11 on the world’s history, Panama City Beach artist Roland Hockett hopes the emblems of that time will continue to support unity between the nations. Read
August 28, 2011
Study Shows Poaching Tortuga Lora Eggs Does Not Harm The Species
Studies by the University of Costa Rica (UCR) for nearly 15 years shows that the extraction of Tortuga Lora (Olive Ridley) eggs is possible without negatively affecting the species. Read
August 22, 2011
In Costa Rica, Alleged Corrupt Police Officials Can Only Be Suspended But Not Fired
Currently there are 40 police officials who the prosecution has ordered to pre-trial detention, but continue on the payroll and/or work in serving and protecting the public. Read
August 22, 2011
Costa Rica: A Country of Contradiction
In gross generalities when it comes to politics business and social issues, Costa Rica effortlessly and clearly translates to discard pseudo fact, off the wall numbers and laws while making critical decisions based upon common sense and intuition. Read
August 22, 2011
Drivers Face Taking Out Loan or Mortgaging Home To Pay Traffic Fines
Mortgaging the farm, borrowing from a neighbour, taking out a bank loan or selling the family jalopy are some of the options available to the 45 drivers who owe the Consejo de Seguridad Vial (Cosevi) ¢105 million colones in traffic fines. Not paying up means having their vehicle impounded and/or facing legal collection. Read
August 22, 2011
Compared to US and Europe, The Cost of Living in Costa Rica Allows Retirees To Enjoy Comfortable Lifestyle
Costa Rica is fast becoming one of the most favored destinations for a growing number of American 'baby boomer' retirees who are looking to live out there days in the sun, shows a recent report by Fox Business. Read
August 22, 2011
Reconstruction Of Avenida 3 Moving Ahead As Planned
Moving about in downtown San José is nightmare for drivers with the reconstruction of Avenida 3, the main east to west route on the north side of the centre of town. Read
August 22, 2011
Presidenta Chinchilla In Mexico, A Country She Doesn't Want To Imitate
Presidenta Laura Chinchilla is in Mexico today, beginning her official visit of the Aztec nation and a country instilled in violence, a path that is quickly starting in Costa Rica and should be avoided at all costs. Read
August 14, 2011
A Mother's Love Is Like No Other
Tomorrow, August 15, is Mother's Day in Costa Rica, a day when mothers all over the country are honoured. And it is also a "legal" holiday. Read
August 14, 2011
Cell Number Portability One Step Closer To Reality
A reference entity will be responsible for managing the database of mobile phone numbers in Costa Rica, which is a concrete step to number portability. Read
August 14, 2011
'Slut Walk' In Costa Rica Today
As it has been done in Canada where it all began and then in Great Britain, India, Mexico, Nicaragua, Honduras and Argentina, a group of women will be hitting the street to protest against violence in the first ever "slut walk" in Costa Rica. Read
August 14, 2011
Legislator Wrongly Accuses Former President Arias, Confusing Him For A Chauffeur
Legislator for the Frente Amplio party, José Maria Villalta, was left with egg on his face in accusing former president Oscar Arias for taking advantage of public resource in a trip to the southern part of the country. But, in reality the person referred to is a Legislative Assembly chauffeur who shares the same name as the Nobel Laureate. Read
August 14, 2011
Canadian Hit and Run Driver Continues In Preventive Detention
Gerald James Wallington, the Canadian national accused of running over and killing a worker on the Virilla bridge on the autopista General Cañas will continue in preventive detention (jail) three more months as judicial authorities continue their investigation in preparing their case for trial. Read
August 14, 2011
Jamaica to Fully Implement Free Trade Agreement with Costa Rica
Jamaica has signaled its intention to sign off on the full implementation of the CARICOM/Costa Rica Free Trade Agreement soon. Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade, Hon. Dr. Kenneth Baugh, said on August 9 that Jamaica has been applying the agreement on a provisional basis and has taken the decision to bring it into force.
Read
August 14, 2011
Traffic Police To Monitor Malls and Tourist Areas For Mother's Day Tomorrow
Tomorrow is Mother's Day in Costa Rica, the most celebrated holiday in the country aside from Christmas and New Years. And for such the Policía de Tránsito (traffic police) will be doubling its efforts to maintain order on the roads, especially with an eye on malls and tourist routes. Read
August 07, 2011
Potential Killers On The Loose In Costa Rica
Killers on the road is the only way to describe the reckless and drunk driver who risks their lives and that of everyone else while behind the wheel of a vehicle. For these killers there is no fear of the law, the high fines or the point system that can lead to the loss of their drivers license. Read
August 07, 2011
Names Will Be Published Of Payoffs To Public Servant For Returning Confiscated License Plates
Paying a bribe in Costa Rica is a custom, almost a fashion. But there is a concerned effort to putting a stop to the graft, especially within the drivers licensing system. Read
August 07, 2011
Banco Nacional and Banco Cathay Join List of Quickpass Issuers
Tired of the long lines at the toll stations on the San José - Caldera? The solution is the "Quickpass", an electronic device that allows a vehicle through the tolls while charging the bank account instead of having to stop and fumble for change. Read
August 07, 2011
No Rain Forecast This Week For The Central Valley and Guanacaste
There will be little in the way of rain this coming week in the Central Valley and especially in Guanacaste, says the Instituto Meteorológico Nacional (IMN) - national weather service. Read
August 01, 2011
Tram Is Proposed Alternative Solution To Transportation In The GAM
The integration of transport networks of buses and intercity rail network, as well as a new urban development model that promotes the mobility of people in the greater metropolitan area of San José (GAM), are some of the proposals currently being discussed in the country. Read
August 01, 2011
What Draws People To Costa Rica?
Is it the semi-lawless towns of Jacó, Puntarenas, Tamarindo and indeed San José? Hotels and bars where you can do here what is against the law in the United States and Canada? Read
August 01, 2011
Watch For Romeros; Ten Tips For A Safe and Successful Romería
Nor rain, nor cold and night will not stop more than 1.5 million Catholic faithful are expected make the annual pilgrimage to Cartago by tomorrow. Read
August 01, 2011
Tomorrow, Tuesday August 2 Is A Holiday in Costa Rica
For such banks and state agencies and offices will be closed, as well as many businesses as Costa Rica pays homage to its patron saint the Virgen de los Angeles or "Negrita" as she is affectionately called. Read
August 01, 2011
Two Former Presidents Absent At State Funeral Of Former President Echandi
Costa Rica said goodbye to former Mario Echandi Jimenez who was president of Costa Rica from 1958 to 1962, died Saturday at the age of 96. Read
July 24, 2011
Costa Rica's National Health Strike Is Over!
Following more than 24 hours of continuous negotiations the two sides to the country's health strike that began last Tuesday came to an end on Saturday. Read
July 24, 2011
Cell Phone Towers: Problems and Solutions?
Cellular phone towers are springing up in Costa Rica like wild mushroom. Unlike the "old days" when ICE - the state telecom - was the only one putting up a tower here and there, the opening of the telecom market with the coming of Movistar and Claro has meant a crop of new towers. Read
July 24, 2011
Peace March In San Ramón Today
Well if we can call our first Peace March several weeks ago a ‘dry run’ we can refer to today’s Marcha Pacifica…por un San Ramón sin Delicuencia the ‘real deal’. Read
July 24, 2011
Moderate Quake Shakes North Pacific Coast of Costa Rica
A 5.5 magnitude earthquake shook the coastal north Pacific of Costa Rica this Saturday morning. Read
July 17, 2011
Rain and More Rain Cause of 'Yellow' Risk Alert
The heavy rains of the last 48 hours has led to a raising of the warning level from "green" to "yellow" as the situation worsens. Read
July 17, 2011
CCSS and Unions Still With Differences
Despite the announcement of a cash injection of ¢85 billion colones by the government in the social security system, differences remain between the Caja Costarricense del Seguro Social (CCSS or Caja) and its unions. Read
July 17, 2011
42 Motorcycle Fatalities Recorded In First Half Of The Year
Riding a motorcycle in Costa Rica is a dangerous and even fatal exercise as daily more and more motorcycles (and scooters) are involved in traffic accidents, the majority light, some serious and at dozens with fatalities. Read
July 17, 2011
Rio Segundo Road Reconstructions Continues With Delays
Residents of the area of Rio Segundo in Alajuela and the thousands of drivers who use the road between Heredia and the airport have reason to complain, the reconstruction of the road is now months in arrears after having to put up with the mess for the last 18 months. Read
July 17, 2011
Arsenal Eye Costa Rica's Campbell
Premier League giants Arsenal are keen on signing promising 19-year-old Costa Rica forward Joel Campbell. The daily Al Dia said that the London club's scout for the Concacaf region, Richard Law, had arrived in the Central American country accompanied by the agent Joaquim Batica, supposedly with the aim of sealing a deal for Campbell, who plays for Deportivo Saprissa in San Jose. Read
July 17, 2011
Best to Avoid The Interamericana Norte
Traffic on the Interamericana Norte (Ruta 1) is congested due to work being carried out on the brdige over the Aranjuez river in Guanacaste. Read
July 10, 2011
Minimum of Six Passengers For Flights To Limón
Flying to the province of Limón has become a reality, but there is a catch, the airline needs at least six passengers to take off. Read
July 10, 2011
Costa Rica: Traffic Cameras Still on 'Legal' Stuck
So, what's with the traffic cameras? The answer is, not much really, referring to the traffic cameras project that the Ministerio de Obras Publicas y Transportes (MOPT) cannot seem to "legally" get going. Read
July 10, 2011
Three Gasoline Price Drops Waiting Approval
Its been a year of of continuing gas price hikes, five consecutive price hikes, in fact, that gives us today record gasoline prices in the country and one of the highest in the region. Read
July 10, 2011
Costa Ricans Less Likely To Migrate To The US
Costa Ricans are less likely, compared to their counterparts in the isthmus, to follow the "American Dream" though the number of Central Americans migrating to the United States in the last decade has increase 138%. Read
July 10, 2011
Lower Traffic Fines To Affect Cosevi Programs
Although the proposed reduction in traffic fines that is being discussed by a legislative commission is good news for drivers, it is not so good for the Consejo Nacional de Vialidad (Cosevi). Read
July 10, 2011
Minor Calvo Today, Ten Years After The Medina Murder
It's been ten years since Parmenio Medina was murdered a few feet outside of home while retuning home from his controversial radio show, La Patada. Read
July 02, 2011
Costa Rica Joins UN 'Decade of Action For Road Safety'
A total of 172 people lost their lives on Costa Rica's roads so far this year, 12 more than then same period last year. And this has the Cruz Roja Costarricense (Costa Rican Red Cross) and others concerned. Read
July 02, 2011
Government Gives In To Avoid Gasoline Shortage in Costa Rica
Fearing a gasoline shortage this weekend, many drivers decided to fill up their tanks Friday morning leaving a number of gasoline stations between Cartago and San José dry. Read
July 02, 2011
Colombia And Costa Rica Head To Head Today
Costa Rican coach Ricardo La Vope to his team not to fear the Colombians, but rather to respect them, as the two teams face head to head competition in Argentina tonight in their first Group A match of the Copa America 2011 with their focus firmly on qualification for World Cup 2014. Read
July 02, 2011
Colombia And Costa Rica Fans Clash Ahead of Copa America
Reports from South America claim a number of rival supporters sparked off a minor brawl ahead of Copa game, police in Argentina arresting more than 20 people, believed to be a mix of Colombia and Costa Rica fans. Read
July 02, 2011
Retiring in Costa Rica
In a recent blog post about retiring abroad, I stated that I didn't want to live in Costa Rica because an American student disappeared in a national park near Liberia in August 2009, according to Carole Moore's compelling book, "The Last Place You'd Look: True Stories of Missing Persons and the People Who Search for Them." Read
July 02, 2011
ICE Offers 24 Hour Promotion For Sunday
Costa Rica's state telecom, Instituto Costarricense de Electricidad (ICE), continues to offer promotions to entice customers to use their cellular phones more and hopefully stay with them with the coming of Movistar and Claro in December. Read
June 26, 2011
Costa Rica's
The Colegio de Periodistas (Journalists's Association) in Costa Rica strongly criticized the Diario Extra for the use of the gory photograph of the accident that claimed the life of soccer star Dennis Marshall and his wife. Read
June 26, 2011
Road Project To San Carlos Back On Again, Government Promises Completion in Two Years
Presidenta Laura Chinchilla has decided to use the road to San Carlos to regain the confidence of Costa Ricans who have lost faith in the quality of road construction projects in the hands of private contractors. Read
June 26, 2011
Speeding Is A Fashion, A Way Of Life In Costa Rica
Despite the warnings, the high fines, points, the threat of a jail cell, a criminal record and next week cameras, speeding and reckless driving (driving over 120 km/h) is still a fashion, a way of life in Costa Rica. And a deadly one at that. Read
June 26, 2011
Driver Examiner and Gavilanes Arrested For 'Selling' Drivers Licenses in Costa Rica
It is getting more difficult in Costa Rica to get a drivers license, not that the written and driving tests are any harder, it's that more and more corrupt officials and "gavilanes" (hustlers) that find clients are getting fewer and fewer due to a crackdown by the judicial officials. Read
June 26, 2011
'Tin Jo' Joins Lists of Restaurant Closures By Health Department
The famous Chinese eatery in downtown San José, Tin Jo, was the latest target of restaurant closures by the Ministerio de Salud. Read
June 26, 2011
U.S. Beats Costa Rica In Basketball Championship Play
Conner Frankamp scored a team-high 22 points and Aaron Gordon barely missed out on a quadruple-double as the 2011 USA Basketball Men’s U16 National Team cruised past Costa Rica 118-46 at the FIBA Americas U16 Championship on Thursday afternoon at Poliforum Benito Juarez in Cancun, Mexico. Read
June 19, 2011
Majority of Refugees In Costa Rica Are Colombians
In Costa Rica there are 19.116 refugees, of whom 54% (about 10,375) are Colombians who leave their country because of the armed conflict. Read
June 19, 2011
Costa Rica's Unions Ask Presidenta For Better Salaries
As July 1 approaches so does the discussion heat up on salary increases for the second half of the, as the government is asked to increase salaries at a level acceptable to public and private sector employees. Read
June 19, 2011
World Bank Donates us$3.4 Million To Costa Rica To Fight Climate Change
The National Forestry Financing Fund (FONAFIFO) has almost us$3.5 million dollars to fight climate change. Read
June 19, 2011
First Victim Of
A 17 year old boy from Cartago is believed to be the first fatality of dangerous rough sex games. The boy is believed to have died when playing a "near death sex game" with his partner, a game that went terribly wrong. Read
June 19, 2011
'I Did Nothing Wrong' At Alcatel, Says Chief
Australia's National Broadband Network chief executive Michael Quigley admits corruption at his former employer, Alcatel Lucent, went far deeper than the "two rogue employees" he blamed last month, and some happened on his watch. Read
June 19, 2011
'Venganza' Bridge Repairs On Hold
The work was to have been completed last weekend. Then during this past week. But, a week later, the space between sections of the metal grate are empty, as the concrete has crumbled away, exposing the bare metal to the tires of vehicles passing by. Read
June 11, 2011
U.S. Donates New Boats To Costa Rica Coast Guard
Friday morning at the Puerto Caldera on the Pacific coast the United States government donated to Costa Rica two new boats to the Servicio Nacional de Guardacostas (Coast Guard) to continue its fight against international drug trafficking. Read
June 11, 2011
Gasoline Prices In Costa Rica Through The Roof Today!
If you have to fill your jalopy's gas tank today better be prepared to shell (no pun intended) out more colones, as gasoline prices took hike this morning. Read
June 11, 2011
Vacation Rentals Over Hotels Preferred By Many Visitor To Costa Rica
New figures released show that more tourists are opting for Costa Rica vacations and there is a growing preference for beach vacation rentals. On May 19th, the Instituto Costarricense de Turismo (ICT) announced a rise in tourism arrival figures of 7% for the first three months of 2011. Read
June 11, 2011
Increased Humidity and Little Wind Cause Of Muggy Weather In The Central Valley
No one will argue that the last couple of days in San José has been hot, hotter than usual. Read
June 11, 2011
Grocery Shopping In San Pedro More Expensive Than In Desamparados
The "basic basket" can cost between ¢72.386 and ¢95.626 colones, depending on where you do your shopping, reveals a study by the Ministerio de Economía, Industria y Comercio (MEIC) - Ministry of Economy, Industry and Commerce. Read
June 11, 2011
U.S. Transnational Project Causes Debate in Costa Rica
The project of oil exploration and production of the U.S. transnational Mallon Oil Company caused an intense debate in Costa Rica because of the rejection of environmental groups and opposition parties. Read
June 05, 2011
Yet Another Increase In Gasoline Prices Approved
Its time to sell the family jalopy or drive less, but whatever, definitely to tighten the purse strings, as the latest gasoline increase will certainly put the bite on the family budget. Read
June 05, 2011
A Few Colones Can Make The Difference In Price War
Costa Rica is in the middle of a war, a price war that is, as major retailers combat for customers using lower prices. A few colones can make all the difference. Read
June 05, 2011
Costa Rican Pop Singer Sues 'Lost' Star Over Bloody Shower Emergency
Costa Rican pop singer Debi Nova is pissed off at "Lost" star Jeremy Davies - not because of how the show ended - because she allegedly sliced the hell out of her thumb in a building he owns. Read
June 05, 2011
'Dirty Money' Injected In Costa Rican Futbol
The arrest in recent months of two leaders of national futbol (soccer) associations for alleged fraud and money laundering, is leading judicial and government authorities to believe that dirty money "has entered the futbol, where in recent years have increased cash revenues, transfers and investment in stadiums moving to synthetic courts. Read
May 29, 2011
Sex Abuse Prison Sentence Raises Concerns About Costa Rica's Justice System
The sentencing of a 39 year old cabinet-maker to four and a half years of prison for sexually assaulting a woman during the daytime by touching her genitals in public has divided Costa Rica: some applaud this decision, while others believe it points to a failed justice system and a third group considers it excessive. Read
May 29, 2011
Costa Rica and Korea Working Together In Energy Solutions For The Future
Costa Rica has long been leading the war against the negative effects resulting from climate change and now has an ally in this battle. “This is a very important issue. There are many companies that profit from not controlling their emissions and polluting the environment, we want to fix that”, said Costa Rica's vice-president, Alfio Piva, while in Korea on an official visit. Read
May 29, 2011
Impounded Vehicles Sit In Tránsito Lots Ad Infinitum
Every time a Tránsito (traffic) office decides to impound a vehicle it adds to the growing problem by the Policia de Tránsito department of where to put it, for the "patios" (impound lots) of the traffic police is well beyond capacity. Read
May 29, 2011
Bicycle Messenging Comes To San José
Visitors to Costa Rica are sometimes dumbfounded by the number of motorcycles on the streets of San José or in front of offices and banks and the lack of bicycles. You see, other than for the obvious reason that two wheeled motorized vehicles are cheaper to operate and can weave in and out of traffic, for those same reasons they are the favourite of messengers. Read
May 29, 2011
Clean Out Your Gutters To Avoid Getting Wet During Downpours
The downpour and rains of Friday morning caused flooding, landslides and rising levels in the rivers. Read
May 22, 2011
Costa Ricans Appeal Traffic Tickets Frivoulusly, Says COSEVI Director
If Héctor Monge, director of the Consejo de Seguridad Vial (COSEVI), had his way there would be no appealing of traffic tickets, this following the Sala Constitucional decision on Wednesday, allowing the processing of stalled traffic ticket appeals. Read
May 22, 2011
Economists' Inflation Expectations For Costa Rica Remain Above That Of The Banco Central
Although the Banco Central de Costa Rica (Central Bank) expects inflation to hover around 4% next year, economists differ from those estimates and forecast a higher cost of living. Read
May 22, 2011
After 6 years of hard work and good will on Saturday morning, the group "un techo para mi país" (a roof for my country) began the construction of the house number one thousand in Costa Rica. Read
May 22, 2011
Human Milk Bank Collection In Costa Rica Starts This Week
The human milk bank intends to begin gathering on Thursday and Friday of this coming week. This bank was opened on 6 May in the hospital Carlos Luis Valverde Vega, in San Ramón. The technical equipment and staff are prepared to receive the first portions and unpasteurized milk. Read
May 22, 2011
After failed May 21 Doomsday, What Will Be Next?
The 2011 end times prediction made by American Christian radio host Harold Camping stated that the Rapture would take place on May 21, 2011, and that the end of the world would take place five months later on October 21, 2011. The Rapture, in a specific tradition of premillennial theology, is the taking up into heaven of God's elect people. Read
May 22, 2011
Saturday Morning 4.9 Quake Rattles Zona Sur
It was 2:37am when a 4.9 on the Richter scale earthquake hit the South Pacific area of Costa Rica. Read
May 22, 2011
Miley Cirus Costa Rica Concert A Hit, But It Didn't Fill
Miley Cyrus is not so innocent anymore. The Hanna Montana star was in Costa Rica last night, performing at the Estadio Nacional, appearing on stage in tight shorts, tops and garters. Read
May 15, 2011
5.9 Earthquake Rattles Costa Rica
In the first few minutes following the earthquake that struck at 16:47 (4:47pm local time), the US Geological Survey reported a 6.0 centre in the area of Tilarán, northwest of San José. But, minutes after the Observatorio Vulcanológico y Sismolóigo de Costa Rica (Oviscori) , the local geological survey, said the magnitude of the quake was 5.9 and with an epicentre in Puriscal, west of San José and quite a distance from Tilarán. Read
May 15, 2011
What To Do Or NOT DO When An Earthquake Strikes
Costa Rica is constantly been shaken and rolled by earthquakes. But, few are as strong like yesterdays and are almost never felt. Surprisingly, although living in a quake zone, many in Costa Rica do not know what to do during a major earthquake. Read
May 15, 2011
More Police In The Streets And Accountability New Vice-Minister Promises
The new vice-ministro de Seguridad Pública, Celso Gamboa, announced yesterday on his first on the job more police for conflictive "barrios" with the objective of reducing crime. Read
May 15, 2011
Costa Rica: Second McDonalds Closed In Less Than A Week By Health
A "barrida" (sweep) of fast food outlets by the Ministerio de Salud (Health ministry) resulted in the closings of 90 businesses in Desamparados alone on Friday. Read
May 15, 2011
Chinchilla to Begin Official U.S. Visit
Costa Rican President Laura Chinchilla will make an official visit to the United States from May 14 to 21 to seek foreign investment, according to an official communique. Read
May 15, 2011
Authorities Theorize Prisoners Had
Two days following the failed prison break at the La Reforma prison's maximum security unit that resulted in the death of two inmates and a prison guard, authorities are following up leads that at least one prison guard was involved, helping the prisoners in their escape attempt. Read
May 15, 2011
Wal-Mart Arrives In Costa Rica
Residents of Ezcazú, Guadalupe, Curridabat, Cartago, San Sebastián and Heredia woke up Friday morning to a new niegbour, Wal-Mart as the giant retail chain changed over its Hipermás stores to the name used across North and Central America. Read
May 08, 2011
San José - Caldera Only One Way East This Afternoon
Today, Sunday, the "reversible" lane policy on the San José - Caldera continues in a effort to reduce congestion of weekend vacationers returning home. Read
May 08, 2011
Missing Manholes, A Latent Danger In Costa Rica
Manholes without covers is quickly taking over from potholes as the latent danger in Costa Rica. Daily there are literally an untold number of manholes and sewer grates without covers. Some have been the scene of near tragic consequences. Read
May 08, 2011
CNE Warns Of Risk In 7 Municipalities With The Start Of The Rainy Season
The rainy season in Costa Rica is official either today or tomorrow according to the Instituto Meteorologico Nacional (IMN). - national weather service. And with that comes preparations. Read
May 08, 2011
ICE Sets Eyes On Blackberry After Success With iPhone
Given the success of the iPhone this week the Instituto Costarricense de Electricidad (ICE) is now setting its eyes on the Blackberry. Read
May 08, 2011
Costa Rican Authorities Turn Up Heat On Online Poker Games Indicted in U.S.
The U.S. has influenced many jurisdictions with its prohibition on online gambling throughout the years. The dispute with the World Trade Organization and Antigua and Barbuda being one problem that does not seem to be going away. Now the authorities in Costa Rica are pulling out all the stops by raiding the offices of Absolute Poker and PokerStars in an attempt to gather evidence regarding alleged wrong doing by those companies, as a reaction to the indictments put forth by the US Department of Justice. Read
May 08, 2011
Vigil, Fundraiser Held For Costa Rica Riptide Victims
COLUMBUS, Ohio - A memorial at the school of three students who drowned while on a trip to Costa Rica helped classmates deal with their loss Saturday. The vigil was held Saturday at the Patriot Academy where students released balloons and remembered Caity Jones, Kai Lamar, and James Smith. Read
May 08, 2011
Riteve Station In Cartago Held Up
It as the first time ever, two men on a motorcycle visited the Riteve inspection station in Cartago on Saturday afternoon, not to get their vehicle inspected, but rather to rob the place. Read
May 01, 2011
Costa Rica Unions In Protest March Today
Today is May 1 and in Costa Rica and as in many Latin American countries, it is known as May Day, the day when the government gives an account of the work of the past year and the traditional Dia del Trabajador (Labour Day). Read
May 01, 2011
Opposition
Today, a group of 31 opposition deputies of Costa Rica's Legislative Assembly may be in "control" of the country if they are able to elect Juan Carlos Mendoza as chairman. Read
May 01, 2011
Zamora Takes On Costa Rica's Crime Problem Today
The ministro de Gobernación, Policía y Seguridad Pública, Mario Zamora Cordero and the viceministra de Gobernación y Policía, Marcela Chacón Castro, were sworn in on Saturday by Presidenta Laura Chinchilla. Read
May 01, 2011
Atenas Residents Blockade San José - Caldera on Saturday
Tired of the broken promises, the residents of Atenas decided to block the San José - Caldera on Saturday. With sticks, rocks and signs in hand, a dozen or so residents were able to chocked off all transit on the main road to and from the Pacific coast. Read
May 01, 2011
Fire Ants Form Rafts To Survive Floods
Why, if a fire ant alone in water drowns, while it can survive and float for days when in a group? Researchers at the Georgia Institute of Technology, USA, have found that fire ants (Solenopsis invicta) create a kind of raft water resistant when floods to save the colony. Read
April 24, 2011
Costa Rica Filled With Fervor For Processions On Friday
Under a blazing sun, locals lined the sidewalks of the main street of in many parts of San José and small towns across Costa Rica Friday morning for the procession recalling the crucifixion of Jesus. Read
April 24, 2011
Costa Rica's Liberia Airport Soon To Accommodate More Vacationers
Tourists arriving in Liberia (LIR) for the 2011-2012 vacation season will enjoy the new terminal that is under construction and to be ready for November. The new terminal in Liberia will almost double capacity to 1.500 passengers at one time from the current 900 and will have a food court, two boarding areas and a sports bar. Read
April 24, 2011
Costa Rica: 24 'Violent' Deaths Recorded So Far This Semana Santa
Authorities in Costa Rica that include the Cruz Roja (Red Cross), the Policia de Transito (traffic police) and the Fuerza Pública (police) had hoped for a calm and fatality free holiday week. However, that has not been the case. Read
April 24, 2011
Did Whitely Bulger Really Die In Costa Rica?
News of Irish Boston mob boss James 'Whitey' Bulger's death in Costa Rica are lighting the internet highway, as the mob boss is alleged to have died from a heart attack in Costa Rica and cremated by his girlfriend, Catherine Greig. Read
April 24, 2011
Costa Rica Resort Invites Guests to Dig In to Reforestation
Trees are cherished in Costa Rica and now guests at Four Seasons Resort Costa Rica at Peninsula Papagayo have another way to get involved in learning about, preserving and planting native Costa Rican trees. Read
April 24, 2011
Bacterial Ecosystems Divide People Into 3 Groups, Scientists Say
In the early 1900s, scientists discovered that each person belonged to one of four blood types. Now they have discovered a new way to classify humanity: by bacteria. Each human being is host to thousands of different species of microbes. Yet a group of scientists now report just three distinct ecosystems in the guts of people they have studied. Read
April 24, 2011
Return Home For Vacationers Begins Today
The return home starts today for many, beating out the rush of traffic that is normal on the Sunday ending Semana Santa. Read
April 17, 2011
Proposed Law Aims To Provide Works For Inmates Behind In Alimony And Child Support
Not paying alimony in Costa Rica can land you jail. However, there is good news for the 200 (195 men and 5 women) who are currently behind bars for being behind in their alimony or child support payments, a new law would allow them to get a job and earn money so that they can pay up. Read
April 17, 2011
Do's and Don'ts For A Safe Holiday Travel In Costa Rica
For those headed out to the beaches and resorts or shopping taking advantage of the holiday week with little traffic and few people in the stores, remember the Policia de Tránsito (traffic police) are out in full force. Read
April 17, 2011
Criminals Do Not Take Semana Santa Off
Semana Santa or Easter Week is vacation time in Costa Rica, a time when many leave the city and head for the beaches and mountain resorts. A time when businesses and offices are closed, many for the entire week. Read
April 17, 2011
'Love In Costa Rica', NBC Announces Premiere for New Adventure-Dating Series
These singles have tried it all - speed-dating, blind-dating, Internet dating -- and now, they're headed deep into the remote jungles of Costa Rica to see if they can find that special someone they've been looking for. "Love in the Wild", premiering on NBC June 1, will put relationships to the ultimate test. Read
April 17, 2011
Bus Terminals Crazy For Semana Santa (Easter)
If you travelling by bus this Semana Santa holiday make sure you are armed with a lot of patience, for like every year, the bus terminals to and from the beaches and resorts are are mayhem. Read
April 17, 2011
ICJ Decision For Costa Rica To Intervene In Nicaragua - Colombia Dispute To Be Handed Down On May 4
While Costa Rica continues its own dispute with Nicaragua over the Isla Calero, an action that was raised to the International Court of Justice in The Hauge (ICJ), Costa Rica is waiting on a decision to be allowed to intervene in the Nicaragua - Colombia border dispute. Read
April 17, 2011
Adopt A Pet For Semana Santa
During Semana Santa many pets are left home alone or worse yet, put out on the streets to fend for themselves, maybe taken back after the holidays. Although this is a common practice in Costa Rica, it is intensified during the holiday periods. Read
April 10, 2011
Costa Rica Reiterates Being Ready Host Meeting With Nicaragua On Tuesday
The Ministerio de Relaciones Exteriores de Costa Rica on Friday reiterated that all is set to host the meeting on security issues and combating drug trafficking on Tuesday April 12 at Peñas Blancas, as he proposed last month. Read
April 10, 2011
Movimiento Libertario Breaks Pact With The Government
It last almost a year, the pact between the Movimiento Libertario (ML) party, that brought together its nine legislative members to support the government's projects in the Legislative Assembly. The pact would give the Partido Liberación Nacional (PLN) enough votes for the government to pass through legislation. Read
April 10, 2011
First Private Cloud Created In Costa Rica
Codisa and Radiográfica Costarricense (Racsa) signed a partnership to create the first private cloud in the country. That is, a space reserved within the world cloud where public and private entities can store information with a greater degree of security and access to specialized computer systems. Read
April 10, 2011
Yet Another Chinchilla Cabinet Member Resigns, Total Is Now 5
Jenny Phillips is the fifth member of Laura Chinchilla's cabinet to call it quits, announcing her resignation on Friday. Read
April 10, 2011
Costa Rican Opposition Rejects Docking of US Military Ships
Costa Rican opposition politicians reiterated their rejection on Friday to U.S. military ships docking in Costa Rica under the pretext of fighting drug trafficking. Read
April 10, 2011
150 Young Nicaraguans Watch Over The Isla Calero
A group of 150 members of the Nicaraguan Sandinista Youth have begun since Friday a watch of the Isla Calero to, "take care of national sovereignty", according to the official Nicaraguan portal 19 de Julio. Read
April 10, 2011
Shakira To Arrive in Costa Rica Later This Afternoon For Tonight's Show
Talk about last minute, the Shakira concert that is set to start at 8pm is being timed down to the last minute by managers of the Colombian artist. Read
April 03, 2011
Tax Man Investigates Contract With Argentina
On Friday, the Dirección de Tributación (Department of Taxation) requested from the Federación Costarricense de Fútbol (FEDEFUT) - Costa Rican soccer association - to hand over a copy of the contract with respect the Costa Rica - Argentina game played at the new National Stadium on Tuesday last. Read
April 03, 2011
Commuter Train To Belén Begins On Tuesday
On Friday, presidenta Laura Chinchilla, for a short time, took to the job of engineer of the Belén commuter train in the inaugural run of the new service that will provide commuters between San Antonio de Belén in Heredia and downtown San José and alternative. Read
April 03, 2011
How Green Are Costa Rican Consumers?
Costa Ricans believe that pollution is an urgent issue, but does not give priority to buying eco-friendly items, although has become more aware of environmental issues as shown in the survey by the weekly financial publication, El Financiero. Read
April 03, 2011
ICODER:
Contrary to news television vidoes and informal reports by visitors to the new National Stadium, the Instituto Costarricense del Deporte y la Recreación (ICODER), reports only one act of vandalism during the first week of operation of the sports complex. Read
April 03, 2011
Costa Rica Sends The Good Stuff And Serves Up The Coffee Dregs At Home
Costa Rica grows one of the world's best coffee, yet it serves one of the worst at home, as like a lot of coffee growing countries, Costa Rica exports most of the good stuff, keeping at home the greens and floaters. Read
April 03, 2011
Rodrigo Arias With The Highest Percentage of Unfavourable Opinion
Rodrigo Arias, one of the more public figures in the past several years, has to fight for his popularity among his party in his bid for the presidential chair in 2014. Read
April 03, 2011
Google Map Corrects Border Error Between Costa Rica and Nicaragua
Although the dispute between Costa Rica and Nicaragua over the Isla Calero is still ongoing, Google has corrected its mistake on its internet Google Maps. Read
March 26, 2011
Costa Rica's New National Stadium,
Tens of thousands will be on hand for the inauguration of the new National Stadium today, the most modern stadium in Central America and what one Spanish language daily calls it, "the stadium for the rich". And ten times or more will be in front of their television screens at home or local watering hole, to take in the day's event that begins in the afternoon and end with a friendly soccer game between Costa Rica and China. Read
March 26, 2011
China Donating us$30 Million For New Police Academy In Costa Rica
If the new national stadium was not enough, China has committed to Costa Rica another us$30 million dollars to finance a new police academy. The agreement was signed between Costa Rica's presidenta, Laura Chinchilla and Chen Changzhi, China's representative, who is in Costa Rica for the inauguration of the new stadium built and donated by China. Read
March 26, 2011
Tax Man Intends To Collect Internet Sales Tax
Costa Rica's ministerio de Hacienda (ministry of Finance) intends to charge the 13% sales tax on all internet services, according to a a standard issued by the Directorate General of Taxation, a body affiliated to the ministry. Read
March 26, 2011
Costa Rica's New National Stadium
Costa Rican President Laura Chinchilla on Friday said the newly built National Stadium donated by China will be a "permanent monument of friendship" between the two nations. Read
March 26, 2011
Child Sex Abuser On His Way To Costa Rica Stopped in Houston
Oklahoma local television station KTUL reported that a Tulsa man charged in a child sexual abuse case is arrested in Houston on his way to Costa Rica. Read
March 26, 2011
Escazú Tolls Coming Down ¢10 Colones
Autopistas del Sol announced that it will be reducing the tolls at Escazú by ¢10 colones. Read
March 26, 2011
Cerro Chirripo, Costa Rica’s highest peak, rewards hikers with marvelous views
To stand atop Cerro Chirripo, at 12,530 feet Costa Rica’s highest peak, and watch the sun rise over the Atlantic Ocean about 50 miles away, you must first excel at waking up in the dark. Four a.m. is okay; 3:30 is even better. Read
March 19, 2011
Full Moon Cause For
The full moon this weekend is the reason for the "green alert" for high waves for Costa Rica's coasts. The alert was issued by the Comisión Nacional de Emergencias (CNE) as a preventive measure. Read
March 19, 2011
Two More Aeromexico Pilots Caught Drunk On The Job
Two more Aeromexico pilots were caught drunk on the job this week, this days after crew members stopped two other drunken pilots from taking off from Costa Rica's Juan Santamaria international airport in San José. Read
March 19, 2011
Costa Rica Gaming and Gambling 2011 Report
Costa Rica is a country that accepts online gambling firms and has benefited ever since the county made it legal. There are at least 500 online gaming operators registered in Costa Rica, generating about $14.5 billion in and considered the third largest market in Latin America. Read
March 19, 2011
Peak Hour Vehicular Restrictions Could Be Extended To Alajuela, Heredia and Cartago
The restriction of vehicles during peak hours in city centres could spread to Heredia, Alajuela and Cartago. The Ministerio de Obras Públicas y Transportes (MOPT) says it is evaluating a similar system now in San José in a report to be released next month. Read
March 19, 2011
The
In preparation for the inauguration ceremonies that begin next week, the La Nacion has prepared a multimedia presentation for what it calls the "Coliseo de la Sabana" (Coliseum of the Sabana). Read
March 13, 2011
San José Fulfills Promise Of A
Christmas 2011 will have a special event add to the year end activities, the opening of the "Barrio Chino" or Chinatown. Read
March 13, 2011
Wal-Mart Mexico Imposes Itself On Costa Rica Market
Just a year passed since Wal-Mart Mexico assumed the reins of the operations of the chain throughout Central America. And we can now see the effects of the change. Read
March 13, 2011
Virilla or
Visitors to and from San José to the Tope de Alajuela and Expo Movil today will have to find alternate routes as this is the first closing, again, of the Virilla or "platina" bridge. Read
March 13, 2011
Costa Rica & Brazil Cooperate in Nanotechnology & Aerospace Engineering
The first contacts between both nations were Joshua and Keilor Fumero Rojas, Director of Innovation and Technology Transfer and Scientific Adviser to the Ministry of Science and Technology (MICIT), respectively. Read
March 13, 2011
Canadian Woman Puts Diabetes To The Test In Costa Rica
A Type 1 diabetic is 'tackling a volcano' on May 7 to raise funds and awareness for the disease. Carly Ward is equally excited and nervous about the prospect of conquering a volcano, so to speak, in early May. Read
March 07, 2011
Costa Rica Is Ready For The Court Decision, Says Presidenta Chinchilla
Everything is ready to hear the decision of the Court", said Presidenta Laura Chinchilla, who affirmed that the government of Costa Rica will fully abide by the result. Read
March 07, 2011
Catholic Church Asks Costa Ricans To Commit To Peace
The Catholic Church made a homily for Peace this Sunday, in which it urged the Costa Rican people to ask God for the gift of peace, in the face of the resolution of the International Court of Justice in The Hague on Tuesday on the conflict between Costa Rica and Nicaragua. Read
March 07, 2011
Survey Reveals Costa Rican Economy With A Slight Rebound In Consumer Confidence
The Índice de Confianza del Consumidor (ICC) - Consumer Confidence Index - quartely survey by the Escuela de Estadística de la Universidad de Costa Rica, showed a change after a year of gloom. The latest survey held last month (February 2011) revealved a 2.5% increase in consumer trust, bringing the index to 50.3%. Read
March 07, 2011
U.S.: Costa Rica Feared Wave of Immigration If It Denounced Voter Fraud In Nicaraguan Municipal Elections
The Government of Costa Rica maintained a passive position and decided not to directly confront Nicaragua about allegations of fraud in the municipal elections of November 9, 2008 by the "complicated relationship " with its northern neighbor and fear that political instability would generate a wave of immigration to Costa Rica, similar to that experienced in the 80's. Read
March 07, 2011
Laura Chinchilla Asks Costa Rican To Wear White On Tuesday
On national television and radio, presidenta Laura Chinchilla, highlighted the overlap between the imminent decision of the International Court of Justice in The Hague (IC) and the International Women's Day on March 8. Read
March 07, 2011
ICJ Ruling To Be Live At 8am Costa Rica Time
The International Court of Justice in The Hague (ICJ) said it will broadcast live the ruling on the Costa Rica - Nicaragua conflict on March 8. The Court decision will be live by way of the internet at 3pm from Peace Palace in The Hague, Netherlands (8am Costa Rica time). Read
February 27, 2011
Costa Rica To Strengthen Northern Border Security; Relations With Nicaragua Have Been Severely Damaged, said Presidenta Chinchilla
With a little over a week to March 8 when the International Court of Justice in The Hague (ICJ) hands down its decision on the Costa Rica - Nicaragua dispute, the government of Laura Chinchilla has decided to reinforce security along the northern border. Read
February 27, 2011
Costa Rica's Tourism Industry 'Improved But Not Recovered'
Industry blames dollar exchange and poor roads for slow recovery
The Cámara Nacional de Turismo (CANATUR) - Costa Rica's Chamber of Tourism - claim that although the tourism industry in Costa Rica has improved, it has yet to fully overcome the crisis. Read
February 27, 2011
Riteve Says It Will Stay Past End Of Its Contract In 2012
Riteve, in the face of competition announced earlier this month by the government, says it will stay when its ten year contract expires next year. Read
February 27, 2011
Tránsito Approves Foreign Drivers Licenses
Obtaining a Costa Rican drivers license by a foreigner is as easy as visiting the Consejo de Seguridad Vial (Cosevi) in La Uruca (San José) and presenting a valid drivers license from their country of origin. And a degree of patience. Read
February 27, 2011
Take Notice: Road To Limon With Closures For Five Days Starting Monday
As of tomorrow, Monday, travelling to and San José and Limón will be get complicated due road closures on Ruta 32 that will continue for five days. Read
February 27, 2011
4.6 Quake Off Quepos Registered Saturday Morning
It only registered 4.6 on the Richter scale, but it did wake residents of Quepos and the Central Pacific at 5:11am Saturday morning. Read
February 19, 2011
International Court To Rule On Costa Rica - Nicaragua Conflict On March 8
Rene Castro, Costa Rica's Foreign Minister, announced Friday that the International Court of Justice in The Hague (ICJ) will hand down its decision on the Costa Rica - Nicaragua conflict on March 8, 2011. Read
February 19, 2011
Costa Rica: Tax Revenue Down, Government Deficit Up
According to data from the Ministerio de Hacienda (Ministry of Finance) tax revenue totaled nearly ¢204 billion in the first month of the year. Read
February 19, 2011
No Law Prohibits People Asking For Money In The Streets In Costa Rica
Visitors to Costa Rica mostly shake their head at the street vendors zig zagging the autopista General Cañas, by the toll station, only a free hundred metres from the airport. These vendors offer passing motorists anything from fresh fruit to children's toys to Texas style horns for mounting on the front of a vehicle. Read
February 19, 2011
Footwear Company Pledges Trees For Costa Rican Rainforest
Footwear and apparel company Etnies is promising to plant a tree in a Costa Rican Rainforest for each pair of shoes the company sells in its recycled-content line. Read
February 19, 2011
Lower Electricity Rates Approved
Although most of the news that comes from the Autoridad Reguladora de los Servicios Públicos (Aresep) is an increase for this, that and the other, good news came on Friday with the announcement of the approval of reduced electrical rates. Read
February 19, 2011
Presidenta Chinchilla On The Road To
If you feel the urge to meet and greet presidenta Laura Chinchilla on her tour of small towns, be warned, her tour is "sell" the Plan Fiscal - the tax plan proposed by her government and currently before legislators. Read
February 13, 2011
Defense Attacks Witness Testimony In
Attorney says couple live together in a house in Escazú. Court orders 3 months preventive detention
He tried to flee, but the long arm of the Costa Rican law reached out and got their man, who in less than 24 hours was back on Costa Rican soil, after being involved in a hit and run accident on the autopista General Cañas. Read
February 13, 2011
Chocolate Is a Super Fruit
Tomorrow is Valentine's Day or el Dia del Amor y Amistad in Costa Rica. And convention dictates the giving of flowers and chocolates to a loved one. But is chocolate good for you? Read
February 13, 2011
Monday Last Day For TDMA In Costa Rica
Tomorrow, Monday, February 14 is the last day for the TDMA cellular service in Costa Rica. At the end of the day Monday, the Instituto Costarricense de Electricidad (ICE) pulls the switch on the outdate technology, leaving the thousands of users who have refused to switch in the dark, so to speak. Read
February 12, 2011
Law Prohibiting Mining Governs in Costa Rica
The law that bans open-pit mining in Costa Rica came into effect with its publication in the official government newsletter, La Gaceta. Read
February 12, 2011
Telefonica and Claro To Spice Up Mobile Communications In Costa Rica
The "Telefonica and Claro Spice Up Costa Rican Telecom Market" report by Pyramid Research analyzes the future of the Costa Rican market, now that Claro and Movistar will compete against the state telecom, the Instituto Costarricense de Electricidad (ICE). Read
February 12, 2011
Second Minister Resigns In Less Than A Week
In less than a week the government of Laura Chinchilla lost two ministers with the resignation on Friday of Clotilde Fonseca, the ministra de Ciencia y Tecnología. On Tuesday, the Guiselle Goyenaga left the Ministerio de Deportes. Read
February 05, 2011
Guanacaste, Costa Rica, Leader In Traffic Fatalities
Speeding and drunk driving have converted Guanacaste into the province with the most fatal traffic accidents. Of the 30 fatal accidents last month, ten occurred in Guanacaste.
Read
February 05, 2011
Guanacaste, Costa Rica, Leader In Traffic Fatalities
Speeding and drunk driving have converted Guanacaste into the province with the most fatal traffic accidents. Of the 30 fatal accidents last month, ten occurred in Guanacaste.
Read
February 05, 2011
"Calling On Costa Rica", a 1947 View Of Costa Rica
Calling On Costa Rica is a look at the Costa Rica of the past, 1947 in fact, when the La Sabana as the international airport of San José, at the time regarded was one of the best airports in the world.
Read
February 04, 2011
Rodrigo Arias WILL be Investigated As Opposition Parties Stand United Against Corruption
Pressure from the opposition parties forced the legislators of the ruling party, the partido Liberación Nacional (PLN), voted in favour of to investigate their potential 2014 presidential candidate, Rodrigo Arias Sánchez.
Read
February 04, 2011
Jacó Crime On The Increase
The Cámara Turismo de Jacó (Jacó tourism chamber) recognizes the problem of sexual exploitation of the Pacific beach town and proposes to create a zone of tolerance.
Read
February 03, 2011
Banco de Costa Rica Warns Of Trojan Virus Attack Of Its Online Services
The Banco de Costa Rica (BCR) is warning users of its online service to wary of a "trojan" virus that redirects users to a fraudulent site and asking the user for the information of the "tarjeta dinámica" that the bank uses to secure online transactions.
Read
February 03, 2011
Banco de Costa Rica Warns Of Trojan Virus Attack Of Its Online Services
The Banco de Costa Rica (BCR) is warning users of its online service to wary of a "trojan" virus that redirects users to a fraudulent site and asking the user for the information of the "tarjeta dinámica" that the bank uses to secure online transactions.
Read
February 03, 2011
Constitutional Court Stops Return Of Child To The U.S.
The Patronato Nacional de la Infancia (PANI) - the Costa Rican child welfare agency - cannot send back to the United States the small child whose father is seeking her return. The PANI action is blocked by a decision of the Sala Constitucional after accepting a writ of habeas corpus filed by the girl's mother, Trina Atwell.
Read
February 02, 2011
The Bachelor Uses Costa Rica As Back Drop
ABC's The Bachelor will host this season's sixth episode from Costa Rica. The episode will feature a special group date at the Spring Resort and Spa, fronting Costa Rica's famous Arenal Volcano, using the property's riverfront rainforest preserve and mineral polls as a backdrop for one on one dates with the newest Bachelor Brad Womack.
Read
February 01, 2011
Costa Rica Accuses Nicaragua Of Ploy To Mislead and Confuse ICJ Bad Faith? What is the intention of Nicaragua ?
Costa Rica calls Nicaragua's apparent removal of its troops from the Isla Calero a "ploy" mean to "fool and confuse" the judges of the International Court of Justice in The Hague.
Read
January 31, 2011
Only One Third Of Single Mothers In Costa Rica struggle That Their Child Have A Father
Only one in three single mothers in Costa Rica recurr to the Ley de Paternidad Responsable (Responsible Fatherhood Act) to ensure that their child take the surname of the father, the other two thirds do not know of the law or do not want the father's name on the birth certificate.
Read
January 30, 2011
Costa Rica: Central Valley Sewage Will Be Treated In New To Be Built Plant - The plan is to stop dumping of sewage into rivers, mainly the Virilla and Tarcoles rivers, the most polluted in Central America
By 2015, sewage produced by more than one million people residing in the Central Valley will no longer be going into the nearby rivers, but rather be treated in a water treatment "megplant" that is to be built in La Carpio, west of San José.
Read
January 29, 2011
Costa Rica And Panama To Work Together To Combat Terrorism And Other Common Crimes
The security ministers of Panama and Costa Rica, José Raúl Mulino and José María Tijerino, respectively, have agreed to work hard to develop joint actions to combat organized crime and criminality in the border areas, both on land and sea.
Read
January 28, 2011
22% Of Fathers In Paternity Test in Costa Rica Are Not The Biological Parent
Some 22% of fathers who undergo a paternity test are not the biological parent, according to the Laboratorio de Paternidad de la Caja Costarricense del Seguro Social (CCSS).
Read
January 23, 2011
Costa Rica: 3D Laser Technology Used To Identify High Risks On Ruta 32
A new study using three dimensional (3D) images the MOPT is employing to determine the condition of the slopes and to give priority to more urgent areas of the Ruta 32 (San José - Guapiles) reveals what most already know, the area is high risk, prone to landslides.
Read
January 23, 2011
Start Of Belén - San José Train Derailed
The start of the Belén train service suffers another setback following an inspection of the train cars to be used. The service was to have begun tomorrow, Monday, 24 January.
Read
January 23, 2011
Start Of Belén - San José Train Derailed
The start of the Belén train service suffers another setback following an inspection of the train cars to be used. The service was to have begun tomorrow, Monday, 24 January.
Read
January 23, 2011
Costa Rica's Cellular Monopoly Officially Comes To An End
Although the opening of the telecommunications market in Costa Rica started with the signing of free trade agreement a couple of years back, the Instituto Costarricense de Electricidad (ICE) continued to be the only cellular telephone provider in Costa Rica, holding on past the end of its 60 year monopoly.
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January 22, 2011
Costa Rica To Be A Wi-Fi Zone
If presidenta Laura Chinchilla has her way, Costa Rica will be one big Wi-Fi zone, which means free wireless internet for everyone.
Read
January 22, 2011
Costa Rica To Be A Wi-Fi Zone
If presidenta Laura Chinchilla has her way, Costa Rica will be one big Wi-Fi zone, which means free wireless internet for everyone.
Read
January 21, 2011
Costa Rica At The Centre Of The Automotive Revolution Mitsubishi chose Costa Rica to introduce its MiEV electric vehicle to the Americas
2011 may go down in history as the year in which the automobile industry in Costa Rica was revolutionized with the arrival of the first 100% organic commercial electric vehicle, the Mitsubishi MiEV, which is expected to arrive next month.
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January 21, 2011
Costa Rica At The Centre Of The Automotive Revolution Mitsubishi chose Costa Rica to introduce its MiEV electric vehicle to the Americas
2011 may go down in history as the year in which the automobile industry in Costa Rica was revolutionized with the arrival of the first 100% organic commercial electric vehicle, the Mitsubishi MiEV, which is expected to arrive next month.
Read
January 20, 2011
Dollar Exchange To Close The Year At ¢520
Analysts for the INS Valores do not expect any growth in the Costa Rican economy for 2011. Carmen Monge, an expert with the financial firm, said the main indicators such as interest rate, inflation and exchange rate will behave very similar to the previous year.
Read
January 20, 2011
Dollar Exchange To Close The Year At ¢520
Analysts for the INS Valores do not expect any growth in the Costa Rican economy for 2011. Carmen Monge, an expert with the financial firm, said the main indicators such as interest rate, inflation and exchange rate will behave very similar to the previous year.
Read
January 20, 2011
Mel Gibson Looks Happy In Costa Rica
Mel Gibson isn’t hanging around Los Angeles waiting for the District Attorney to decide his fate. Mad Mel has taken off for Costa Rica and RadarOnline.com has obtained new photos of the actor/director looking pretty cheerful.
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January 19, 2011
Proposed Tax Plan Would Make Getting A Haircut, A Visit To The Doctor, Going To The Movies More Expensive
Getting a hair cut, watching cable television or going to the movies, among other services we use daily in Costa Rica will all get more expensive if legislators approved the tax reform plan submitted by the government on Monday, that proposes a change from a 13% sales tax to a 14% value added tax (VAT) - impuesto al valor agregado (IVA) in Spanish.
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January 19, 2011
Proposed Tax Plan Would Make Getting A Haircut, A Visit To The Doctor, Going To The Movies More Expensive
Getting a hair cut, watching cable television or going to the movies, among other services we use daily in Costa Rica will all get more expensive if legislators approved the tax reform plan submitted by the government on Monday, that proposes a change from a 13% sales tax to a 14% value added tax (VAT) - impuesto al valor agregado (IVA) in Spanish.
Read
January 19, 2011
Full Bars For Movistar And Claro In Costa Rica
Costa Rica's presidenta, Laura Chinchilla, on Tuesday signed the resolution that allocates spectrum concession to Movistar and Claro to operate cellular networks in Costa Rica.
Read
January 18, 2011
Government Proposes Higher Taxes For Costa Rica
The government on Monday presented to the Legislature its tax reform that proposes to replace the 13% sales tax to a 14% value added tax (VAT) or valor agregado (IVA) in Spanish. The original intent of the government has been to impose a 15% tax, but decided to drop its claim as part of a strategy to reduce opposition from the legislators.
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January 18, 2011
Government Proposes Higher Taxes For Costa Rica
The government on Monday presented to the Legislature its tax reform that proposes to replace the 13% sales tax to a 14% value added tax (VAT) or valor agregado (IVA) in Spanish. The original intent of the government has been to impose a 15% tax, but decided to drop its claim as part of a strategy to reduce opposition from the legislators.
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January 17, 2011
Former Costa Rica President Pacheco Says Former U.S. Ambassador Pressured Him For Oil Exploration - Pacheco: U.S. diplomats are very subtle, never threaten but rather hint
Former president Abel Pacheco (2002-2006) says that during his tenure he suffered strong pressure from then U.S. ambassador to Costa Rica, John Danilovich, to make progress with oil exploration in the Caribbean. Pacheco made the comments to the Spanish language press over the weekend.
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January 17, 2011
Former Costa Rica President Pacheco Says Former U.S. Ambassador Pressured Him For Oil Exploration - Pacheco: U.S. diplomats are very subtle, never threaten but rather hint
Former president Abel Pacheco (2002-2006) says that during his tenure he suffered strong pressure from then U.S. ambassador to Costa Rica, John Danilovich, to make progress with oil exploration in the Caribbean. Pacheco made the comments to the Spanish language press over the weekend.
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January 17, 2011
The Hague Court Decision Could Come This Week
The decision by the International Court of Justice in The Hague on whether to place precautionary measures against Nicaragua could come as early as this week.
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January 15, 2011
Costa Rica's Foreign Minister In Secret Tour Of Europe
Costa Rica's Foreign Minister, Rene Castro, is not sitting idle while the magistrates of the International Court of Justice in The Hague make their decision following the three day hearing this past week. No, he is taking his pitch on the road.
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January 15, 2011
Tourists Caught Up In The "Platina" Mess
The Cámara Costarricense de Hoteles (CCH) has sent a strong letter to the ministro de Obras Públicas y Transportes, Francisco Jiménez, asking him to eliminate the restrictions placed on minvans used to transport tourists from using the bus lane in the area of the Virilla bridge on the autopista General Cañas.
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January 15, 2011
Gasoline Prices Hikes On The Way
Brace yourself for another round of gasoline price increases, this time a whopping ¢17 colones for a litre of regular, ¢7 for super and ¢2 for diesel.
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January 14, 2011
73 Building Projects in Costa Rica Stuck In Red Tape
No question that construction may lead economy recovery. The construction industry took a pretty good hit in the last couple of years and any rebound can have a positive effect on the rest of the economy. However, that rebound may be slow in coming and for only main reason, excessive procedures and waiting time to get permits.
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January 14, 2011
ICE Plans To Take Its Brand of Business Outside Of Costa Rica
Costa Rica's way of business will soon be spread across the region with the announcement by the Instituto Costarricense de Electricidad (ICE), to expand its operations outside of Costa Rica. The move, says the state telecom, is a strategy to strengthen against the looming competition looming in the country.
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January 13, 2011
Gringos Gone Wild In Costa Rica By Christopher Howard*
When you read this title the first thing that probably comes to mind are young girls engaging in nudity, indecent exposure and other sexual acts on camera like the film “Girls Gone Wild.” The kind of misconduct that that some Americans engage in here is quite different.
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January 13, 2011
Gringos Gone Wild In Costa Rica By Christopher Howard*
When you read this title the first thing that probably comes to mind are young girls engaging in nudity, indecent exposure and other sexual acts on camera like the film “Girls Gone Wild.” The kind of misconduct that that some Americans engage in here is quite different.
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January 12, 2011
Costa Rica's Green Hotels Receive Eco-Friendly Designation From Travelocity
Travelocity has bestowed its coveted eco-friendly leaf to Costa Rican hotels who achieved the highest levels of the Certification for Sustainable Tourism (CST) program.
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January 12, 2011
Costa Rica's Green Hotels Receive Eco-Friendly Designation From Travelocity
Travelocity has bestowed its coveted eco-friendly leaf to Costa Rican hotels who achieved the highest levels of the Certification for Sustainable Tourism (CST) program.
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January 12, 2011
SUTEL Recommends Government Approve Claro and Movistar Offers
The Superintendencia de Telecomunicaciones (SUTEL) has recommended to the Poder Ejecutivo (government) to accept the offers by America Movil and Telefonica for two of the three cellular telephone licenses.
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January 12, 2011
Ortega Says He Will Respect Any International Court Decision
Nicaragua's president, Daniel Ortega, said Monday in Managua that his country will respect the decision of the International Court of Justice in The Hague (ICJ) in the dispute with Costa Rica.
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January 10, 2011
Costa Rica Delegation Ready For International Court of Justice Hearings
Costa Rica's chancellor René Castro left Costa Rica on Sunday headed for The Hague, Netherlands, meeting up with the rest of his delegation who are ready to present their case before the International Court of Justice in the conflict with Nicaragua.
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January 10, 2011
Costa Rica Delegation Ready For International Court of Justice Hearings
Costa Rica's chancellor René Castro left Costa Rica on Sunday headed for The Hague, Netherlands, meeting up with the rest of his delegation who are ready to present their case before the International Court of Justice in the conflict with Nicaragua.
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January 09, 2011
Arizona "The Mecca For Prejudice And Bigotry."
We are miles and miles away from Arizona the United States, but the recent shootings of a Congresswoman, the death of a Federal Judge and 6 others has no border and it touches all of us.
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January 09, 2011
Arizona "The Mecca For Prejudice And Bigotry."
We are miles and miles away from Arizona the United States, but the recent shootings of a Congresswoman, the death of a Federal Judge and 6 others has no border and it touches all of us.
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January 09, 2011
Freedom Of Expression Tops With Costa Ricans
The right to say what one thinks is the biggest advantage of living in a democracy such as Costa Rica, says 34% of the country's inhabitants.
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January 08, 2011
Costa Rica Builds Defense Around Isla Calero
The government of Laura Chinchilla has decided to begin erecting barriers at the mouths of the Colorado, Sarapiqui, and San Carlos rivers to prevent the possible entrance of Nicaraguan boats.
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January 08, 2011
Costa Rica Builds Defense Around Isla Calero
The government of Laura Chinchilla has decided to begin erecting barriers at the mouths of the Colorado, Sarapiqui, and San Carlos rivers to prevent the possible entrance of Nicaraguan boats.
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January 08, 2011
Flu Vaccination Kicks Off Monday in Costa Rica
The flu vaccination campaign begins on Monday with the focus on the elderly and in two weeks children under 2 years of age.
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January 07, 2011
Costa Rica's Ruling Political Party Infighting Leads To Resignation of Legislator
Publicly reported and also published in the Spanish language newspapers, television and radio the infighting of the elected government has escalated and while on the surface seemingly a political bore, in reality this infighting will directly impact, at minimum, both our taxes as well as security! (Or lack of it)
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January 07, 2011
Costa Rica's Ruling Political Party Infighting Leads To Resignation of Legislator
Publicly reported and also published in the Spanish language newspapers, television and radio the infighting of the elected government has escalated and while on the surface seemingly a political bore, in reality this infighting will directly impact, at minimum, both our taxes as well as security! (Or lack of it)
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January 07, 2011
Is It Possible To Retire In Costa Rica On Social Security? By Christopher Howard*
The answer is yes and no, depending on your lifestyle and the amount of your monthly Social Security check.
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January 06, 2011
Although The Telecommunications Market Is Now Open in Costa Rica, It Will Continue Heavily Regulated
Tomorrow, Friday, January 7, is an pivotal day for Costa Rica's telecommunications sector, the day when after years of talk and discussions, two foreign operators will announce their offer and plan to compete with the state telecom in the cellular telephone market.
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January 06, 2011
Official Inflation In Costa Rica = 5.82% for 2010! Cost of Living “Priceless”
The official word is Costa Rica´s inflation rate came in just about on the high end of Banco Central´s forecast which was between 4% and 6%.
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January 05, 2011
Chinchilla Asks Obama and Clinton For Support With Nicaragua Conflict
Costa Rica's presidenta, Laura Chinchilla, confirmed she held talks last month, by telephone, with her U.S. counterpart, Barack Obama, and the Secretary of State, Hillary Clinton.
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January 04, 2011
Ministry Of Justice Robbed!?
Is There no Fear at All of Law Enforcement Anywhere in Costa Rica? When the Ministry of Justice gets robbed, we have hit bottom!
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January 03, 2011
Third Time is The Charm For New Traffic Law?
The third time is the charm, so the saying goes, as legislators begin the new year to approve reforms to the reforms of the Ley de Tránsito.
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January 03, 2011
Constitutional Court Rejects Appeal To Ban US Navy Ships in Costa Rica
A Constitutional Court ruling allows US navy ships to enter Costa Rican waters in a joint antidrug operations with the Costa Rican Coast Guard, under the Joint Maritime Agreement in effect since 1999.
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January 01, 2011
Happy New Year, Costa Rica! By John Holtz*
One of the few universal human behaviors is to make new year resolutions. No matter how altruistic and sincere few resolutions are ever kept. Least of all the promise to stop smoking and the most popular of all, “This year I am going to lose 20 pounds and keep it off starting next week, for sure, no kidding!”
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January 01, 2011
Law Aims To Break Costa Rica's Banking Secrecy
A controversial bill would force Costa Rica's banks to break their secrecy and divulge information about customer accounts.
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January 01, 2011
Undreamed Dreams By Geroge Lundquist, Costaricaretireonss.com
I just watched the video from Eric Liljenstolpe on We Love CR, on why people leave CR. He mentions he has consulted with thousands of people and concludes that being unprepared for the large cultural difference is why folks choose to move back. That is certainly a large database and made me wonder why my experience here is quite different.
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January 01, 2011
Daughter's Birth Staves Off Deportation From Costa Rica
A Constitutional Court action by a pregnant woman save a Chinese national from being deported from Costa Rica with the birth of his son, casting aside a decision by the Dirección de Migración y Extranjería.
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December 31, 2010
Gringo Terrorists in Costa Rica By Christophe Howard*
By the sound of the title readers may think that we have a cell of American terrorists operating in Costa Rica. Well, nothing could be farther from the truth. In fact, we have NO terrorism here.
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December 31, 2010
Traffic Fines Go Up 7.45% Tomorrow
Adding insult to injury, something that has been little press coverage is the increase in traffic fines that go into effect tomorrow, January 1, 2011. If the traffic fines weren't high enough, tomorrow a 7.45% increase is applied to all traffic fines.
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December 31, 2010
Traffic Fines Go Up 7.45% Tomorrow
Adding insult to injury, something that has been little press coverage is the increase in traffic fines that go into effect tomorrow, January 1, 2011. If the traffic fines weren't high enough, tomorrow a 7.45% increase is applied to all traffic fines.
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December 31, 2010
262.000 Without Marchamo and 10.000 Without Riteve As The Year Closes
As of the close of business Wednesday 262.000 vehicle owners have yet to pay their 2011 Machamo and 10.000 do not count with the vehicular inspection certificate or Riteve.
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December 30, 2010
32 Foreigners Caught in 2010 Attempting To Leave Costa Rica With Illegal Drugs
A total of 32 foreigners got an extended stay in Costa Rica with free room and board, being part of the 39 people caught at the country's airports with 150 kilograms of cocaine and 2.1 kilograms of marijuana, valued at us$3.8 million dollars.
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December 30, 2010
Rojas Keeps Lead in Vuelta Ciclista Costa Rica
Costa Rican cyclist Juan Carlos Rojas keeps his leader in the Vuelta Ciclista a Costa Rica (Tour of Costa Rica) after winning the 11th stage of the general qualification.
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December 29, 2010
Nicaraguan Ambassador Blasts Washington Post For "Invasion" Editorial
Nicaragua's ambassador in the United States, Francis Campbell, rejected an editorial in The Washington Post which accuses the government of this country of "invading" Costa Rica. The Washington Post ran "Obama administration seems soft on Nicaraguan aggression", on December 25, 2010.
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December 29, 2010
Escazú Tolls Increase For New Year
In a few days its a new year and a time for price increases. The first out of the gate will be Autopistas del Sol with a ¢10 colones increase in its tolls at the Escazú.
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December 28, 2010
A Costa Rica Vacation That Will Never Be Forgotten
Hundreds of guests of the luxury resort hotel on Costa Rica's Pacific coast has to pack up and leave, though their vacation was not over. However, they are the lucky ones, for some 100 or more were sickened in repeated attacks of stomach flu, prompting the minister de Salud to intervene and order the Bacerló Playa Tambor shut down.
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December 28, 2010
67 Drunk Drivers Picked Off So Far This Month
Although 2010 saw a reduction in the number of drunk drivers, this month all the efforts were for none, with a total of 67 drivers so far picked off for driving under the influence and with the big party days around the corner.
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December 27, 2010
Let´s Hope 2011 In Costa Rica Will Be More Productive By John Holtz*
Cold winds and really cold winds blew in Christmas itself, and that special day is over for yet another year. Or at least until mid-August when the retail push to buy starts up again.
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December 26, 2010
Not Exactly A Christmas Wish From Nicaragua
This “thing” (Costa Rica - Nicaragua border conflict) is escalating. And while not as dramatic as the North-South Korea issue, it is growing none the less and if not put under control, the result will be in a military standoff, or worse.
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December 26, 2010
Costa Rica's Constitutional Court Decision Allows Port For US Ships
Costa Rica's Constitutional Court on Friday rejected a filing of unconstitutionality against U.S. ships docking at Costa Rican ports. The Sala Constitucional declared "sin lugar" (without merit) the action filed several months ago by legislators of the opposition.
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December 25, 2010
More U.S. Warships and Troops will Enter Costa Rica
Costa Rica's legislators this week approved the admission of 46 warships and troops from the U.S., despite the rejection of several sectors of the opposition to the U.S. presence.
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December 25, 2010
100 Tourists With Food Poisoning At Beach Hotel
Numbers are flying all over the place as to tourism, the number of tourists, hotel reservations and even the number of hotel guests who, according to the Ministry of Health, got food poisoning at the Hotel Barceló, Playa Tambor.
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December 24, 2010
ICE Assures Cellular Coverage During Holidays Despite Recent Technical Problems
It will be interesting to say the least for both cellular telephone users and the Insituto Costarricense de Electricidad (ICE), for this is the season to call (or send a text message) while the state telecom faces connectivity problems.
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December 24, 2010
Costa Rica's Banana Industry Foresees Rise In Production For 2011
Costa Rica’s banana sector is forecasting a slight increase in overall volumes for its 2011 campaign to an estimated 105 million boxes, which it believes should mark a modest recovery from last year’s rain-affected season.
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December 23, 2010
Zapote A Nuisance For Most Residents, A Cash Cow For Some
For many residents living around or near the Zapote fair grounds, the week starting December 25 is a nightmare, when the largest of all seasonal festival takes place. However, for some others, it is a time to get rich.
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December 23, 2010
Smile, You Are On Traffic Camera!
Come the new year, if the plans by the Policía de Tránsito are put into effect, drivers in Costa Rica will face a new system of speed controls, the silent and always working traffic camera.
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December 22, 2010
Costa Ricans Can Join National Reserve To Defend National Sovereignty, Foreign Minister Says
Costa Rica's foreign minister, Rene Castro, said that every Costa Rican who wants to support the government to defend national sovereignty can do so by joining the "Reserva Nacional" (National Reserve). The minister made the statement following a query by a listener of the program Nuestra Voz.
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December 21, 2010
ICE Cellular Service Problems Continue
In less than 72 hours since the last major problem with its GSM and 3G cellular service, the Instituto Costarricense de Electricidad (ICE) reported another problem, this time affecting some 500.000 3G customers who moved over from the TDMA service.
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December 21, 2010
A Latin America Agenda For Obama Convince Nicaragua to end its illegal occupation of Costa Rica...
Nearly two years have passed since his inauguration, and President Barack Obama has yet to unveil a major policy initiative for Latin America. Regional officials are hoping Obama ends this neglect in 2011 and increases U.S. engagement. Here are seven ways in which his administration could demonstrate its commitment to Latin America.
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December 20, 2010
Total Eclipse Of The Moon Tonight Set your clock to 11:29pm to see the effect in Costa Rica
There is a lot of action going on in the skies right now. Monday night or Tuesday morning we are going to have a real treat.
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December 20, 2010
Costa Rica Peace Corps Director Commits To Supporting Global Housing Solutions'
Peace Corps Country Director, Steven Dorsey, has expressed willingness to support Investments in Costa Rica and Global Housing Solutions’ social housing project, in Colorado, Costa Rica. This unique collaboration will bring the Peace Corps’ fifty years' experience to bear at the grass roots level of this community’s inception.
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December 18, 2010
Costa Rica, Nicaragua Agree To Mediation
SAN PEDRO, BELIZE - Both Costa Rica and Nicaragua accepted on Thursday an offer by Mexico and Guatemala to mediate talks with an eye on resolving the seven week border dispute.
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December 18, 2010
Mexican Drug Cartel Has Established Bases In Costa Rica
Costa Rican authorities say that Mexico's powerful Sinaloa drug cartel has established bases and storage depots in the country from which it ships drugs to the United States. Drug trafficking in Costa Rica now "will certainly increase because Mexican drug traffickers are already here, especially the Sinaloa" cartel, Philip Springer, of the US Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA)
said in an interview with ADN radio.
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December 18, 2010
29 New Multinationals Settled In Costa Rica In 2010
The CINDE - Coalición Costarricense de Iniciativas de Desarrollo (Costa Rican Investment Promotion Agency)) reports that 2010 was a good year, investment wise, with the decision by 29 multinational corportations to settle in Costa Rica, with an investment of more than us$430 million dollars.
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December 18, 2010
Successful Skin Transplant In Costa Rica Saves Life Of 9 Year Old Children's Hospital p
Performed its first skin transplant surgery on the boy after he suffered a bee sting
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December 17, 2010
Costa Rican Judge Orders International Arrest Of Eden Pastora The order does not apply in Nicaragua
Criminal court justice, Rodrigo Vallecillos, on Wednesday signed the international arrest warrant for Eden Pastor for causing environmental damage in Costa Rica.
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December 16, 2010
US Military Presence in Costa Rica Rejected
Costa Rican opposition parties expressed their rejection to the entry of more soldiers, ships and helicopters from the US to Costa Rica, on a pretext to fight drug trafficking.
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December 16, 2010
Costa Rica On Track For Record Banana Sales in 2010
Costa Rica has posted a 20% increase in banana exports in 2010, and expects to continue the upward trend in 2011, according to local newspaper El Prensa Libre.
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December 16, 2010
New Insurer Given Approval To Enter Costa Rica Market
Atlantic Southern Insurance Company is the latest insurer to expand to Costa Rica. With over six decades of service, and offering quality products to Puerto Ricans, Atlantic Southern Insurance (ASICO) will be the 11th national insurer.
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December 15, 2010
Claro and Movistar Make Bids, Tigo & Others Not In Costa Rica
America Movil (Claro), Mexico largest wireless provider and Spain's Telefonica (Movistar) made bids on Tuesday for concessions to operate cellular networks in Costa Rica, in competition with the state telecom, the Instituto Costarricense de Electricidad (ICE).
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December 15, 2010
Presidenta Chinchilla Presented Her National Development Plan
Costa Rica's presidenta, Laura Chinchilla, presented the Plan de Desarrollo Nacional (PDN) - National Development Plan - where the objectives and goals of the government are laid out until 2014, the end of her term.
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December 15, 2010
Low Numbers Preferred By Lottery Buyers
The countdown has begun and with only five days to go, chasers of the Gordo Navideño are looking at the "low" numbers to make them a "billionaire", with a first prize of a cool billion colones.
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December 14, 2010
Recession In Costa Rica Could Be Around The Corner
Costa Rica may be in a recession next month following eight months of negative economic growth. According to international standards, a country enters into recession when it experiences three consecutive quarters of negative growth.
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December 14, 2010
Drug Trafficking In Costa Rica To Increase
Mexico's powerful Sinaloa drug cartel has established bases and storage depots in Costa Rica from which it ships drugs to the United States, the US Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) representative said Monday.
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December 14, 2010
European Union Says Nicaragua - Costa Rica Dispute Should Be Resolved In 2011
A European Union (EU) representative Monday urged the Nicaraguan and Costa Rican governments to start a bilateral dialogue to resolve the border conflict caused by the dredging of the San Juan River.
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December 14, 2010
Missing Canadians Found Alive Off Costa Rica
Two B.C. men have been found alive after days stranded at sea off the coast of Costa Rica. John Davidson, 64 and his best friend, Jud Baker, were lost at sea for three days.
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December 13, 2010
33 Could Turn Into 1.000.000 In Costa Rica
If you still haven't bought your ticket for Sunday's Big lottery draw there is still time, but favourite numbers are going fast.
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December 13, 2010
Costa Rica Investigates Mysterious Death of Sea Turtles
Scientists in Costa Rica are studying the death of at least 10 and 12 more ailing turtles in the southern zone. Universidad Nacional (UN) told the press that the environmental organization MarVia found the 22 turtles floating near Matapalo beach.
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December 13, 2010
What Will Be Of Daniel Ortega? The Same Fate Of Noriega?
In a commentary in today's edition of Al Día, Edgar Fonseca, comments that Nicaragua's Daniel Ortega will be taking the same trip as Noriega, a direct, non-return flight to Miami. What are the Americans waiting for? asks Fonseca.
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December 12, 2010
Ortega Willing To Talk But Without Conditions Or The OAS
Nicaragua's president Daniel Ortega said that he would be willing to meet with Costa Rica's president Laura Chinchilla, to dialogue on the border dispute, in the presence of "friendly" nations but without the presence of Organization of American States (OAS) officials.
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December 12, 2010
Ecuador's President Rafael Correa Is Offering To Mediate Costa Rica's Conflict With Nicaragua
Ecuador's president, Rafael Correa, has decided to throw his hat in the Nicaragua - Costa Rica ring by offering himself as mediator to the border conflict.
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December 12, 2010
Tibás To Hold First Ever Carnaval Today
If you are heading to Tibás today (Sunday) best be prepared with a lot of patience, as the community on the north side of San José is holding its first evet Carnaval, which could end up being a traffic nightmare, as only Tránsito (traffic) official has been assigned to the task of traffic control.
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December 11, 2010
US Navy Ship Takes On Costa Rican Lawmakers For Tour
In a refueling and supply stop in Golfito, the USS Doyle, and its 211 crew took the opportunity to show their wares off to a group Costa Rica's legislators, who were invited onboard for a look see.
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December 11, 2010
Festival de la Luz, A Night Of Fantasy, Colour and Magic,Tonight
If you are looking for something great to do tonight, head on down to San José for a night of fantasy, colour and magic are all part of the greatest show of the year, the Festival de la Luz (Light Festival).
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December 10, 2010
Costa Rica's EARTH University Celebrates 18h Anniversary
Today, December 10, EARTH University will surpass the 1,500 alumni-mark during its 18th Commencement Ceremony to be held on its campus in Guácimo, Limón, Costa Rica. The 80 graduates represent 16 countries in Latin America, the Caribbean and Africa, including for the first time, Kenya.
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December 10, 2010
BAC Credomatic Now In Hands Of Colombians
General Electric announced the completion of the us$1.92 billion dollar sale of BAC Credomatic to the Colombian bank, Grupo Aval. The sale was first announced in July.
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December 10, 2010
BAC Credomatic Now In Hands Of Colombians
General Electric announced the completion of the us$1.92 billion dollar sale of BAC Credomatic to the Colombian bank, Grupo Aval. The sale was first announced in July.
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December 08, 2010
Costa Rica To Ask For Support Of Four Countries For Nicaragua's Voluntary Withdrawl From Isla Calero
Following Tuesday's meeting of the Foreign Ministers of the Organization of American States (OAS) and the majority support for Costa Rica's position in its border dispute with Nicaragua, Costa Rica intends to ask for support by Ecuador, Argentina, Spain and Brazil, to persuade Nicaragua to withdraw its troops from the Isla Calero.
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December 08, 2010
Costa Rica - Argentina Friendly Tickets Go On Sale Friday
Tickets for the inauguration soccer game at the new Estadio Nacional de Costa Rica (National Stadium) go on sale Friday at 8am, wheb 34.863 tickets will be made available to the public. The game is the much anticipated friendly with Argentina to be played on March 29, 2011 at 8pm.
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December 08, 2010
Retailers Offer Special Hours And Opening 24 Hours For The Christmas Season
Spending your Aguinaldo this season will not be a problem as retailers and banks are working hard and long hours to make sure you hand over your money.
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December 07, 2010
Why Nicaragua and Costa Rica Are In A Tense Standoff Over a Remote Swamp By Tim Rogers, Sara Miller Llana
A simmering border dispute over a remote swamp island is threatening bilateral ties between Costa Rica and Nicaragua and putting regional stability at risk.
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December 07, 2010
Costa Rica Closes Managua Embassy
In the continuing saga of the Costa Rica - Nicaragua conflict, Costa Rica announced on Monday the closure of its embassy in Nicaragua. This one day before the meeting of the Foreign Ministers of the Organization of American States (OAS).
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December 06, 2010
Chinchilla Includes Nicaragua Among Her Enemies Costa Rica's president says she lost confidence in Daniel Ortega the day after the only time they spoke
Talking to the Costa Rican press from her hotel suite in Mar de Plata, Argentina, at the close of the XX Cumbre Iberoamericana (Ibero-American Summit), presidenta Laura Chinchilla said she would prefer to be less popular with the people than face the current problem with Nicaragua.
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December 06, 2010
Teletón Raises ¢534 Million Colones
The Teletón de Costa Rica managed to collect at least ¢534 million colones (a little more than one us million dollars), money that will be used to equip the Hospital Nacional de Niños (Chidlren's hospital), reported event organizers.
The telethon kicked off Friday and ended at midnight Saturday night, exceeding the goal of ¢500 million colones, mainly due to large donations by businesses and organizations.
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December 05, 2010
Costa Rica's Traffic Law Reforms Moving In The Slow Lane
It all began in late 2008 when the then legislative assembly approved the new Ley de Tránsito (traffic law) that would bring Costa Rica to the modern age, with increased fines, severe penalties for drunk and reckless driving and give traffic officials more tools to do their job. Read
December 03, 2010
UN Global Compact Signed in Costa Rica
Costa Rica, on Thursday, was host to the signing of the United Nations Global Compact, a strategic policy initiative for businesses that are committed to aligning their operations and strategies with ten universally accepted principles in the areas of human rights, labour, environment and anti-corruption. Read
December 02, 2010
Traffic Cameras in Costa Rica Almost Ready For Use
It won't be long before the twelve cameras on four major routes will complete their testing and go into use to curb speeding by ticketing drivers electronically. The cameras have been installed on the autopistas General Cañas, Florencio del Castillo, Próspero Fernández and the Circunvalación. Read
December 01, 2010
Majority Approve Of Chinchilla; Unemployment Down, Poverty Up
Presidenta Laura Chinchilla has the continued support of the majority of Costa Ricans, according to a recent public opinion poll by Demoscopia for the Spanish language daily, Al Día. Read
November 28, 2010
Costa Rica: "Platina" Bridge Repair Will Hurt High Season Tourism
Although the period from Christmas to the start of the school year in February sees less traffic on roads in San José, as many Costa Ricans head for the beaches and mountains for the "summer school vacation", it is also the "high tourist" season in Costa Rica. Read
November 27, 2010
Arias Says He Will Respect Court Decision On Crucitas, But
Oscar Arias, Costa Rica's former president, is using the social media to express his opinion on the court decision to cancel the Crucitas mining concession and the judge's recommendation that he and others involved in the granting of the concession, be investigated for criminal actions. Read
November 26, 2010
10.000 Police Will Be Safeguarding The Streets Of Costa Rica For Christmas
The Plaza de la Cultura was filled with brass on Thursday, police brass that is, for the announcement of the "Navidad Azul" program aimed at protecting the public from criminal on the eve of the New Year and to care for the "aguinaldos" that will be hitting the streets come next week. Read
November 25, 2010
Shakira and Messi To Inaugurate Costa Rica's National Stadium
Costa Rica will inaugurate its new stadium, donated by China at a cost of uS$85 million, with a friendly futbol (soccer) against Argentina on March 29, 2011 and a concert by Colombia's hottie, Shakira a week later. Read
November 25, 2010
15 "Deadly" Peaks Identified In Costa Rica
The Comisión Nacional de Emergencias (CNE) - national emergency commission - has identified at least 15 "cerros" (peaks) that experts believe are prone to landslides similar or worse to the tragedy in Escazú last month when the cerro Chitaría took 23 lives. Read
November 25, 2010
Presidenta Chinchilla Playing Referee Between ICE and Sutel
State telecom continues its efforts to stall the opening of the telecom market in Costa Rica Read
November 24, 2010
Woman Bites Cop's Penis In Rage Over Unfaithful Husband
Being a cop in Costa Rica has its dangers, but none like that faced by an official of the Fuerza Pública who had his penis bitten by a furious woman angry at her wondering husband. The event took place outside the "Luminarias" bar/disco in downtown San José, a centre frequented mainly by Nicaraguans. Read
November 23, 2010
Manufacturer of Levis and Dockers In Costa Rica Announces Plant Closure
The Centro Industrial Manufacturero El Roble (Cimer) manufacturer of Levi and Dockers in Costa Rica announced a gradual closure that will occur in December and January. Read
November 23, 2010
Upala Exports 25 Containers Per Month To The US and EU Markets
Upala Agrícola is a company in Costa Rica specialized in fresh pineapple export. Gabriela Sandí, gives some highlights about the company. Upala is a producer and exporter of fresh pineapples with an area of 700 acres. Counting on conventional and organic quality, the company exports to European and United States markets. Read
November 21, 2010
Nicaragua Canal May Become A Reality
There are three seaways between Atlantic and Pacific Ocean. The most common is the way through Panama Canal. The other two go either south of South America (Cape Horn passage) or north of North America ('northwest passage'). Latter two are not very convenient; the first one is already in a dire need of enlargement.
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November 21, 2010
International Court Set A January 2011 Hearing For Costa Rica - Nicaragua Conflict
The International Court of Justice at The Hague on Saturday agreed to accept Costa Rica's filing against Nicaragua and has set a court date of January 11, 2011, when both countries can present their arguments over the dredging work of the San Juan river and the alleged incursion by Nicaragua of the Isla Calero, which Costa Rica claims ownership.
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November 21, 2010
Does This Sound Familiar? “Click Your Heels Dorothy!”
From Panama, “Prensa Latina”. Problems related to insecurity focused Friday on Panamanian security, issues like the high cost of life, unemployment and poverty, specialized sources reported.
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November 20, 2010
Cracks in Costa Rica's Green Image
For many, Costa Rica embodies the notion of a country committed to taking care of its natural environment. But Costa Rican activists beg to differ, and have a list of the actions that contradict the country's green "for-export" image. Open-pit mining, pollution of rivers and an international reprimand for weak protection of wetlands only fuel their criticisms.
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November 20, 2010
Costa Rica Finance Ministry Urges Tax Reform To Cut Deficit
Costa Rica should overhaul its tax system to rein in its fiscal deficit, Finance Minister (Ministro de Hacienda), Fernando Herrero, said on Friday. Costa Rica's deficit is ¢645 billion colons ($1.27 billion dollars), or 2.6 percent of gross domestic product, as heavy spending to support the economy during the global financial crisis has outstripped revenues.
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November 20, 2010
92% Of National Roads Repaired, MOPT Says
The Ministerio de Obras Públicas y Transportes (MOPT) said on Friday that it has repaired and re-opened 92% of the roads affected by the heavy rains of the past month.
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November 19, 2010
Ortega Picks On Costa Rica to Rally Support At Home
For the past couple of years, Nicaragua’s president Daniel Ortega has been desperately seeking to subvert his country’s constitution and feeble democratic institutions in order to stand for re-election next year. Since the Nicaraguan constitution bars him from running for a third term (he was president in 1985-1990), Ortega tried unsuccessfully to have the constitution amended by the National Assembly, where his Sandinista party lacks a majority to do so. However, through judicial shenanigans facilitated by a Supreme Court and an Electoral Tribunal packed with Sandinista allies, Ortega is likely to run again next year. Mary O’Grady of the Wall Street Journal and The Economist have documented the case.
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November 19, 2010
Well…Here We Are!
More political confusion, roads closed and it is coming on high times for tourism, the dollar has been reduced to almost nothing compared to a year ago while the colon has been artificially appreciated resulting in loss of jobs and profit, the Nicaraguans have taken over our island and are holding Costa Rica hostage as we wring our hands and fly white doves around the capital in protest.
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November 19, 2010
Canadian Man Dies After MS Surgery In Costa Rica
An Ontario, Canada, man with multiple sclerosis died of complications after a controversial treatment in Costa Rica to open up his neck veins. Mahir Mostic, 35, of St. Catharines died on Oct. 19, one day after doctors in the Costa Rica tried to dissolve a blood-clot complication.
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November 18, 2010
Missing Manhole Covers A Serious Problem In San José
Costa Rica will well known for its potholes. But another danger lurks for drivers and pedestrians, missing manhole covers. Such was the case on Wednesday when a woman was swallowed up by a manhole in the area of López Mateos, in San Sebastián, on the south side of San José.
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November 18, 2010
Spain Sets Eyes On Costa Rica For Investment
Despite the economic crisis in Europe, Spain is interested in investing in renewable energy projects in Costa Rica, according to statement from the Anabel González, the foreign trade minister of the Central American country, published in La Nación newspaper.
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November 17, 2010
Tránsito With Eyes On "No Riteve" Vehicles
If you are one of the thousands that is circulating without the Riteve - the annual vehicular inspection permit - be warned that the Policía de Tránsito (traffic police) have their eyes on you.
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November 16, 2010
Arias Criticizes U.S. Military Spending The former president recommends US make new friends
In Denver, Colorado, former two-time Costa Rican president and Nobel Peace prize winner, Oscar Arias, delivered a fierce critique of U.S. military spending.
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November 16, 2010
4.000 Pay 2011 Marchamo On First Day 2011 Marchamo does not include traffic tickets on appeal
More than 4.000 vehicle owners paid their 2011 Marchamo in its first day for a total of ¢393 million colones of the ¢110 billion colones the Instituto Nacional de Seguros (INS) expected to collect from the owners of the 997.000 vehicles registered.
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November 16, 2010
Cable Theft Leaves 125.000 Homes In The Dark
The theft of a cable left from 125.000 homes without electricity in the communities of Desamparados, Aserrí, Tabarca, Paso Ancho and Curridabat on Monday.
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November 15, 2010
Nicaraguan Politicians Urge Ortega To Pull Troops Conflict not of military character, withdrawing the troops will not put Nicaragua at risk
Nicaraguan politicians on Sunday urged President Daniel Ortega to make diplomatic efforts to solve the conflict with Costa Rica. Victor Hugo Tinoco, a deputy from the Movimiento de Renovación Sandinista (MRS), told the local press that the resolution of the Organization of American States (OAS) is positive, because it only invites Nicaragua "to avoid" its military presence in San Juan river, bordering Costa Rica.
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November 15, 2010
Admiring Costa Rica's Corruption By John Holtz*
If there is one thing admirable about Costa Rica´s national epidemic of corruption it is that an open and robust media has embraced the courage to make it all public, down to every last detail. Not many countries do that in this world. However, the residual is that the international image of corruption and crime appear far more prevalent than is the reality.
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November 15, 2010
Nicaragua Considers Leaving the OAS
MANAGUA - President of Nicaragua, Daniel Ortega said that to his government the Organization of American States has lost all credibility and considers the possibility to leave the hemispheric organization.
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November 14, 2010
Ortega: Costa Rica's Foreign Policy Dictated By Drug Traffickers
Costa Rica doesn't want Nicaragua to battle drug trafficking. Colombia behind plan for troop withdrawal. Read
November 14, 2010
Uncalled For Arias Brothers Criticism of Chinchilla
The Arias brothers, Oscar and Rodrigo very much need to take an intensive course in “Ego Control” since both have tried and might be successful at intellectually corrupting the elected Laura Chinchilla administration with highly public criticism and flat out back room politicking. Read
November 14, 2010
Right To Live In Peace" In Pictures Read
November 12, 2010
Infinito Aiming For Costa Rica Gold Output In 2012
(Reuters) - Canada's Infinito Gold Ltd said on Thursday its Crucitas gold mine has been set back 23 months by legal challenges in Costa Rica and is now aiming for production in the first quarter of 2012. Read
November 11, 2010
U.S. Willing To Help In Costa Rica - Nicaragua Dispute If Asked
The U.S. Ambassador in Nicaragua, Robert Callahan, said Washington is willing to "help" Costa Rica and Nicaragua resolve their border conflict. Read
November 10, 2010
Bajo Anonos Residents To Move
Officials of the Municipalidad de Escazú visited the area of Bajo Anonos to serve notice to the residents of the shanty area to a voluntary eviction to avoid a tragedy in the area. Read
November 09, 2010
Escazú Search And Rescue Officially Called Off
It was a hard decision, but one that had to eventually be made, end the rescue efforts for the search of the only missing person in the Escazú avalanche of last Wednesday. Cristina Solía Acuña, 27, is the only person missing from the tragedy. Read
November 09, 2010
Mel Gibson Purchased Illegally Registered Property
Unfortunately, Mel Gibson’s troubles don’t end, even when he arrives in Costa Rica. Although he is trying to maintain a low profile while recovering from the recent scandals in which he has repeatedly threatened his ex-girlfriend and mother of his youngest child, documents from an internal audit done by Nicoya’s Municipalidad show that part of the property Gibson bought at Playa Barrigona was illegally registered. Read
November 08, 2010
Costa Rica Landslide Death Toll Rises To 23
Rescue and search workers recovered three more bodies of people who died in a Wednesday landslide in San Antonio de Escazú, raising the death toll to 23.
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November 08, 2010
"On Tuesday We Can Say That The OAS Is Good For Something", Says Chinchilla
Presidenta Laura Chinchilla in a firm voice said on Saturday that if Nicaragua does not remove its troops and the Organization of American States (OAS) does not expressly favour Costa Rica, her government will take the case to the United Nations.
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November 08, 2010
Costa Rica and Panama Urge G20 to Agree on Doha Round
Ministers from Costa Rica and Panama urged members of the G20 to agree upon the conclusion of multilateral trade negotiations, the Doha Development Round.
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November 08, 2010
Costa Rica, a Country in Crisis!
In Costa Rica we often use the word “crisis” to describe anything that is not positive. “Crisis” replaced the word “Recession”, for example, which during the last eight months Costa Rica has been slowly recovering from. Read
November 07, 2010
Official List of Deaths in Escazú
The good news is that no more bodies were uncovered during Friday's search and rescue in Escazú, the bad, the weather has not been co-operating, hampering efforts by the Cruz Roja (Red Cross), Bomberos (firefighters), police, area residents and volunteers, who have all come together in the tragedy that took 20 lives in the early hours of Wednesday morning.
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November 07, 2010
Google Maps Blamed For Nicaragua's Invasion of Costa Rica
Nicaragua's military invasion (not really) of Costa Rica is being blamed totally on Google Maps. Edén Pastora, the Nicaraguan military commander who led the unintended invasion didn’t mean to start an international incident. He was only following the directions he was getting from Google Maps.
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November 07, 2010
Toll From The Rains In Costa Rica: 23 Dead, 10 Missing, 1.394 In Shelters
The tally from the rains of Tuesday and Wednesday is 23 dead, at least 10 still missing and 1.394 people in shelters in 114 communities. The damage to property and infrastructure is in the tens of millions of dollars, all due to the effects of the devastating tropical storm "Thomas", that hit Costa Rica indirectly.
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November 06, 2010
Toll From The Rains In Costa Rica: 23 Dead, 10 Missing, 1.394 In Shelters
The tally from the rains of Tuesday and Wednesday is 23 dead, at least 10 still missing and 1.394 people in shelters in 114 communities. The damage to property and infrastructure is in the tens of millions of dollars, all due to the effects of the devastating tropical storm "Thomas", that hit Costa Rica indirectly.
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November 05, 2010
Costa Rica Declares Two Days Of National Mourning; State Of Emergency
The government of Costa Rica declared two days of "national mourning" in memory of those who lost their lives in the tragedy of early hours of Thursday morning, mainly in the areas of San Antonio de Escazú.
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November 04, 2010
Rescue and Recovery Efforts Suspended In Escazú; Aserrí With Its Own Nightmare
The rescue and recovery efforts in the mountains of Escazú have been suspended as the rains began to fall again minutes after 3pm. The head of the Comisión Nacional de Emergencias (CNE), as well as the Bomberos and Cruz Roja, decided to call off all operations for time being, hopefully resuming before nightfall, if not in the morning daylight.
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November 04, 2010
Public Schools Closed
Leonardo Garnier, the ministro de Educación Pública (MEP) called for a closure of all public schools for today, asking parents to keep their children at home.
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November 03, 2010
"Our Soldiers Are Not Stupid", Says Nicaragua's Army Commander Isla Calero, Claimed by Costa Rica, is 1000% Nicaraguan Said Edén Pastora
Former Sandinista guerilla leader, Edén Pastora, in charge of the dredging operations of the San Juan river flatly denied on Tuesday that Nicaraguan troops crossed into Costa Rican territory as claimed by the Chinchilla government, who accused Nicaragua "once again" violating Costa Rica's sovereignty.
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November 03, 2010
Atenas Residents Paying Costly Price For The Problems Of The Caldera
The letter and photos sent to us by Atenas resident, Jerome Ives, clearly describes what the nightmare residents of Atenas are living through as both Autopistas del Sol and the Ministerio de Obras Pública y Transportes (MOPT) fail to remedy the situation.
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October 30, 2010
Government Considering Taxing Foreign Capital to Costa Rica
The government of Costa Rica is discussing the possibility of temporarily taxing foreign capital coming into the country in order to discourage the inflow of US dollars to the Costa Rican economy, which would help raise the value of the US currently. Read
October 30, 2010
Transition To Dry Season In Costa Rica Commences; Time To Put Away The Umbrella And Galoshes
It's time to put away the umbrella and galoshes (for the Canucks in Costa Rica). Well, almost. Read
October 29, 2010
18 Month Wait For Breast Cancer Surgery At Costa Rica State Hospitals
A report by the Universidad Nacional (UNA) "Proceso social del cáncer de mama en Costa Rica" reveals that it takes 18 months from the time a woman detects a lump in her breast to surgery, reducing the possibility of surviving breast cancer, the most common and deadly of cancers among women. Read
October 29, 2010
Costa Rica's RACSA Accuses AMNET Of Dirty Play
The Radiográfica Costarricense says that AMNET is playing dirty, taking down the state telecom down to its customers, claiming to have better internet connection and service. Read
October 28, 2010
Costa Rica Reviews Its Strategies In Asia
Costa Rican Foreign Minister Rene Castro met Wednesday with Costa Rican ambassadors in Asian countries to review its strategies in that region. Read
October 27, 2010
Costa Rica Most Prosperous In Latin America
Costa Rica was ranked highest of all countries in Latin America in the 2009 Legatum Prosperity Index, ahead of Panama, Brazil, Argentina and Colombia. Read
October 27, 2010
Presidenta Chinchilla Calls For Strengthening Institutions For Democracy
Costa Rican President Laura Chinchilla Tuesday called for strengthening institutions in Latin America. Chinchilla made the appeal in Cartagena, Colombia, during the 12th Dialogue and Agreement Mechanisms of Tuxtla Presidential Summit (Tuxtla Group Summit). Read
October 26, 2010
Ruta 32, The Most Dangerous Road In Costa Rica
The eyes and ears of Costa Ricans have been on the problems of the San José - Caldera that has contributed to crippling access between the Pacific coast and the Central Valley, as the heavy rains of the season caused the shutting down of the highway between Orotina and Atenas for more than three weeks. Read
October 26, 2010
Costa Rica Recognized For Biodiversity Protection
Costa Rica has been named as the winner of the 2010 Future Policy award at a global summit on biodiversity in Nagoya, Japan, as the country aims to be the first developing nation to meet UN biodiversity commitments. Read
October 25, 2010
Costa Rica: $10 Billion Dollars Needed To Repair Roads
If it all started today, it would require us$10 billion (not million) dollars to repair roads, bridges and government buildings according to MOPT and the Contraloria. Where is that money going to come from? Put that on top of everything else that is considered “crisis level” (real, or perceived) and again a fine mess. Read
October 25, 2010
Costa Rica's Pavas Airport Soon To Be A "Relajo" No More
It is a common practice in Costa Rica to close the barn door after the storm
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October 23, 2010
Nicaraguan Army Denies Incursions Into Costa Rica
The Nicaraguan army flatly denies any incursion into Costa Rican territory, contrary to assertions and protect by Costa Rica for an apparent violation of national sovereignty in the area of the dredging of the San Juan river. Read
October 22, 2010
Costa Rica Among Money Laundering Countries
Costa Rica, Cuba, Honduras and Nicaragua are among nations that pose rising risks in the global fight against money laundering and related security threats, a new survey indicated. Read
October 20, 2010
1.425 Drivers With Suspended License For Accumulating Points
The Consejo de Seguridad Vial (COSEVI) reports that 1.425 drivers have lost their license in the last seven months, losing all 50 points for traffic violations, as stipulated in the Ley de Tránsito that went into effect on March 1, 2010. Read
October 18, 2010
Costa Rica, A Land Of Apathy
Recently an Inside Costa Rica reader named Larry lamented in “comments” that we are a land of apathy and that got me thinking. Read
October 17, 2010
San José - Caldera Re-Opened This Morning
The section of highway between Atenas and Orotina was re-opened this morning by Autopistas del Sol after the Consejo Nacional de Concessiones (CNC) gave the green light on Saturday, satisfied that the highway is safe for users.
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October 17, 2010
50 Traffic Cops Detained This Year For Corruption
We have all been or know someone who has been the victim of corrupt traffic cops. But that soon could be a thing of the past in Costa Rica, as transit officials continue their crack down of those officials who stick their hands in the pockets of drivers.
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October 17, 2010
A Girlfriend. Maid. Secretary. Or Prostitute? The Ad Is Unclear
Secretary or university student between 25 and 35 is sought to clean and give massages, part time. She must be good looking, single, skinny have no children or one at the most and be happy for an American who describes himself as charming and single in San José.
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October 17, 2010
Four Out Every Ten Employers In Costa Rica Do Not Pay Minimum Wage
The ministerio de Trabajo (Labour Ministry) reports that four out of every ten employers it has inspected pay their employees salaries below minimum wage.
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October 16, 2010
Four Out Every Ten Employers In Costa Rica Do Not Pay Minimum Wage
The ministerio de Trabajo (Labour Ministry) reports that four out of every ten employers it has inspected pay their employees salaries below minimum wage.
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October 16, 2010
Costa Rican Government Considers Value Added Tax On Dollar Transaction: VP Liberman
Vice President, Liberman, formally a business man and banker himself spoke at the National Financial Conference addressing Costa Rica´s monetary crisis.
For the first time the government and Banco Central (Central Bank) admitted that the valuation of the colon and the devaluation of the dollar is causing a loss of exports, income and jobs.
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October 16, 2010
Costa Rica Intervenes in Colombia-Nicaragua Border Dispute
Costa Rica submits a request to the International Court of Justice (ICJ) in The Hague to step into the Colombia-Nicaragua maritime border dispute, saying that it affects the country's interests in the Caribbean Sea.
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October 15, 2010
Long Weekend And With Roads in Collapse
This weekend is a long weekend in Costa Rica and with little rain in the forecast many will head for the beaches of Guanacaste and the Central and South Pacific coasts. However, expect traffic. Lots of traffic, this due to the collapse of Costa Rica's road infrastructure.
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October 15, 2010
New Protocol For Police Road Blocks
Faced with an order tow months ago by the Sala Constitucional prohibiting police road blocks, the ministerio de Seguridad has issued a new procedure to develop controls as required by law.
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October 15, 2010
Child Labour Exploitation Denounced in Costa Rica
The Asociación Nacional de Empleados Públicos y Privados (ANEP) - National Association of Public and Private Employees - union of Costa Rica denounced that the agricultural enterprise Agromonte exploits minors in pineapple plantations.
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October 14, 2010
If The Miner Rescue Would Have Been In Costa Rica
While many Costa Ricans watched the rescue of Chilean miners and with the presence of a Telenoticias television crew reporting live from Atacama, they had to start wondering what would happen if the situation were to occur in Costa Rica.
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October 14, 2010
Dominican Big Business Slams Costa Rica’s “Straightjacket” On Trade
Santo Domingo – The president of the National Business Council (CONEP) on Wednesday rebuked Costa Rica’s effort at imposing a “straightjacket” on Dominican Republic’s trade relations and the belligerence from those who disagree with the free trade practices in effect and the spirit toward positive ties among the productive sectors of both countries Read
October 14, 2010
Heart Surgery Pioneer Dr. Longino Soto Dies
The hospital Clínica Católica confirmed the death of Dr. Longino Soto Pacheco Wednesday night.
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October 13, 2010
Some 300 Kg Of Cocaine Goes Missing
The director of the Organismo de Investigacion Judicial (OIJ), Jorge Rojas, assures that the police controls at the Pavas airport did not fail, but rather the drug traffickers took advantage of the weakness of the airport, mainly the lack of radar and monitoring systems.
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October 13, 2010
Colombians Wanted To Buy "Narco" Airline
In an interview with the Spanish language daily, former owner and president of the ATA airline, Juan José Trejos, said he sold the airline due to the fall in the aviation business and that his airline had not flown for almost two years. "It was a lousy business", said the businessman.
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October 13, 2010
Only One Company Confirms Participation in Cellular Competition
More than three weeks since the tender for cellular operating licenses was opened, only one company so far has expressed an interest in bidding. The other four say they are continuing evaluating the possibility, the La Nación reports.
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October 13, 2010
2011 Marchamo Goes On Sale Beginning Of November
The Instituto Nacional de Seguros (INS) says that the 2011 Marchamo will go on sale the first week in November. The state insurer is responsible for the collection of the annual circulation permit for the 1.055.000 registered vehicles.
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October 12, 2010
Two Mexicans Tied To Drug Plane Crash Detained At Border Crossing
Costa Rican authorities report the arrest of two Mexican nationals believed to be owners of the light plane that crashed Sunday morning after take off of the Pavas airport and the more than 170 kilograms of cocaine hidden in the fuselage.
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October 12, 2010
Costa Rica's Ambassador Urges Prompt Approval of FTA With China
Costa Rican Ambassador to China Marco Vinicio Ruiz has called on his country to approve the Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with China soon.
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October 11, 2010
Time For Costa Rica To Dollarize?
By most measures, our success in globalizing has become a successful and costly venture We recognize that the country has had an exponential increase in foreign trade supported by such mega companies as Intel, HP, Boston Scientific, P&G, Kraft and the myriad of large and small outsource centers, especially agriculture not to mention the injured but not at all lifeless international business of tourism, and real estate sales. Read
October 11, 2010
Normal, Rainy Season Weather To Kick Back In Tomorrow
It's been almost a week of no rain in one of the worst rainy seasons of the last couple of years. For days the skies have been clear and though the weather cool at times (a few degrees below normal), the sun has been shining and not a drop in sight.
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October 11, 2010
Objections Could Delay Costa Rica's Cellular Competition
Questions over the mobile license tender could delay further the opening of the telecommunications market in Costa Rica after the Contraloria General de la República (Comptroller's office) instructed the Superintendencia de Telecomunicaciones (Sutel) to update the bidding document following complaints from some of the bidders.
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October 11, 2010
Time For Costa Rica To Dollarize?
By most measures, our success in globalizing has become a successful and costly venture We recognize that the country has had an exponential increase in foreign trade supported by such mega companies as Intel, HP, Boston Scientific, P&G, Kraft and the myriad of large and small outsource centers, especially agriculture not to mention the injured but not at all lifeless international business of tourism, and real estate sales.
Read
October 10, 2010
Drug Plane Crashes In Costa Rica
Authorities today are investigating how could a light plane taking off from the Pavas airport, headed for Guatemala, could be carrying 170 kilograms of drugs and no one noticed, until the plane crashed into a river off the runway. Read
October 09, 2010
5.9 Quake Shook Costa Rica Friday Night
It was few minutes before 8:00pm when a 5.9 magnitude earthquake shook Costa Rica's capital, San José, startling residents and knocking items off shelves. Some people fled their homes and buildings were evacuated as alarms went off all over the city. Read
October 08, 2010
Experts Say The Problems On The Caldera Were Foreseen
Autopistas Estimates It Will Take Three To Five Months To Repair The Road Read
October 08, 2010
New National Stadium Victim Of First Robbery
Although the new national stadium is inaugurated, it has yet to be handed over by the Chinese to Costa Rica and open its doors to the public, it is starting to rack up crimes against it, with its first robbery. Read
October 07, 2010
Constitutional Court To Filter Filings To Reduce Waste of Magistrates Time And Resources
In an attempt to reduce the number of filings that are not within the scope of the Sala Constitucional (Constitutional Court), a lawyer located at the entrance of the court will review and determine if the matter can be filed with the court or not. Read
October 06, 2010
Costa Rican Consumer Prices Fall Slightly in September
Costa Rica’s Consumer Price Index (CPI) reports that prices fell an average of 0.08 percent during the month of September, the first month this year that consumer prices have decreased. Despite the slight deflation, through the first nine months of the year, average consumer prices have risen 3.87 percent, about a full percentage point higher than during the same period of 2009, when inflation was 2.92 percent. Read
October 04, 2010
If You Intend To Move Or Retire in Costa Rica Do So For Reasons Other Than Profit
I argue, this thing about Costa Rica as a haven for Baby Boomers is just unrealistic and could be costly to naïve investors, especially seniors who visualize living cheaply, great returns on investment as well as making new friends on some fictitious yet to be built golf course, the unheated swimming pool and B.B.Q. Read
October 02, 2010
Taxi Fares Going Up, Gasoline Prices Dropping
The Autoridad Reguladora de los Servicios Públicos (ARESEP) - regulator of public prices and services in Costa Rica - said on Friday that changes in taxi fares and gasoline prices are expected to be approved next week. Read
October 02, 2010
Rain And More Rain Forecast For This Weekend
The Instituto Meteorológico Nacional (IMN) - national weather service - is calling for lots of rain this weekend, even though the heavy predicted for Friday did not occur. Read
October 02, 2010
Direct Flights Between London And Liberia Begin In November
Beginning November 2, Thomson Airlines will be offering direct flights between Liberia, Costa Rica and London, England. Read
September 30, 2010
Costa Rica Crippled By Its Roads
Up to 60 Major Roads in Costa Rica Affected By The Two Days of Constant Rain Read
September 30, 2010
December May Be A Black Month For Drivers With Unpaid Traffic Tickets For many December is the month of the Aguinaldo, the Christmas bonus, when employees receive the equivalent of one months salary in one lump sun. But, for owner of vehicles, that lump
December May Be A Black Month For Drivers With Unpaid Traffic Tickets Read
September 30, 2010
Costa Rica's Rocket Company Offers Stock Purchase
The Ad Astra Rocket Company with its headquarters in Houston, Texas and branch in Liberia, Guanacaste, announced on Wednesday that it will be become a limited public corporation, being listed in the Costa Rica stock exchange, offering stock to investors with a minimum of us$25.000.
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September 30, 2010
US$50 Million For Costa Rica Penthouse
Imagine owning a penthouse with a view Read
September 28, 2010
Tourist Overstay Fine Not Yet Being Applied, December Is The Deadline
Leaving Costa Rica for foreigners who have overstayed their "tourist" visa period could be costly and be barred from returning to Costa Rica for a period of up to three times they overstay. Although that is the law, immigration officials have yet to enforce it, which could be anytime between now and December 13. Read
September 28, 2010
Tolls At Escazú ¢10 Lower on Friday
Drivers are benefiting from the drop in the dollar exchange by paying lower tolls on the San José - Caldera. This Friday the tolls at Escazú will drop another ¢10 colones, the second consecutive drop since the dollar exchange fell close to the floor of the exchange band. Read
September 27, 2010
Broadband Connections In Costa Rica Continue To Grow
Cisco reports a growth in Costa Rica of 15.5% in fixed broadband connections during the second half of 2009, of the results of the Cisco® Broadband Barometer,. The growth in broadband connections was lower than it was during the first half of 2009, when connections grew more than 20 percent.
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September 27, 2010
Broadband Connections In Costa Rica Continue To Grow
Cisco reports a growth in Costa Rica of 15.5% in fixed broadband connections during the second half of 2009, of the results of the Cisco® Broadband Barometer,. The growth in broadband connections was lower than it was during the first half of 2009, when connections grew more than 20 percent.
Read
September 27, 2010
Scotiabank Employees Leave Door Unlocked At Branch
It was the end of the work day at the Scotiabank branch in San Pedro de Montes de Oca on Saturday at 1pm and everyone went home. But who locked the front door? Read
September 25, 2010
Transport Minister Gives Autopistas One Month To Fix The San José - Caldera Or Else
If the Ministro de Obras Públicas y Transportes could close down, again, the San José - Caldera he would is the feeling Francisco Jimenéz gave over the last couple of days following a report by the Contraloría (Comptroller's office), the disastrous rainy season on the new highway and the popular demand to shut it down. Read
September 25, 2010
"Matthew" Spares Costa Rica
As luck would have it, the tropical storm "Matthew" did not have the effect on Costa Rica as it had been expected, though it is unwise to let down the guard. Read
September 24, 2010
New Storm Threatens Rain-Soaked Central America
(AFP) - Strengthening Tropical Storm Matthew raced toward Central America Friday and threatened to strengthen into a hurricane as it headed west over warm water towards the already rain-soaked region.
Read
September 24, 2010
Expect Dollar To Drop Next Week
Notwithstanding that the dollar exchange has been rising the last couple of days before falling below the ¢500 colones floor of the exchange band, you can expect another dip this coming week as we get closer to the end of the month.
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September 23, 2010
Costa Rica Seeks Out For Foreign Investment
During her U.S. trip coinciding with the United Nations visit, Costa Rica's Presidenta, Laura Chinchilla and her trade delegation have been taking the opportunity to promote Costa Rica with an aim to attract foreign investment.
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September 23, 2010
Costa Rica On "Right Track", Says Presidenta Chinchilla
Costa Rica's Presidenta Laura Chinchilla said in New York on Wednesday that the country is on the "right track" to achieve the UN Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) and "even exceed them," but stressed that more needs to be done.
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September 22, 2010
Costa Rica, Maldives Establish Diplomatic Ties
Costa Rica and Maldives established diplomatic ties on Tuesday, the Costa Rican Foreign Ministry said.
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September 22, 2010
Canadian Group Bicycling To Costa Rica To Spread Word of Sustainable Living
An Guelph, Ontario (Canada) woman and six others will attempt to bicycle to Costa Rica, a 16.000 kilometres trip through nine countries. The 25 year old university graduate is taking a year off for the ride to spread the word about sustainable living.
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September 21, 2010
New 20MIL Makes Its Debut Tomorrow
The 20 MIL Colones note, nickamed "colibríes", will make its debut tomorrow, Wednesday, among uncertainty and doubts over its security measures. The note is the first of the changes by the Banco Central de Costa Rica to rejuvenate Costa Rica's paper money.
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September 21, 2010
Turrialba Volcano Remains Closed To The Public
Access to the Parque Nacional Volcán Turrialba continues closed due to the poor conditions of the pathway to the crater and the recent activity by the colossus.
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September 20, 2010
Legislators Study Plans To Limit Powers Of The Constitutional Court
The Comisión de Asuntos Jurídicos (Legal Affairs Committee) will be creating a subcommittee to analyze five bills intended to reform the legal framework in which the Sala Constitucional (Constitutional Court).
Read
September 20, 2010
73.000 TDMA Users In Costa Rica Resisting Change
Despite advances in technology, some 73.000 cellular users in Costa Rica continue with the old TDMA service, even though they have to endure problems with service provided by the Instituto Costarricense de Electricidad (ICE) during the last several months.
Read
September 18, 2010
Government Rushed The Opening Of The San José - Caldera, Report Indicates
The manager of the Obras Públicas de la Contraloría General de la República, Manuel Corrales, revealed on Friday that Autopistas del Sol, the concessionaire of the autopista San José - Caldera, took short cuts to get the road ready for opening day last January, months ahead of schedule. Read
September 18, 2010
Presidenta Chinchilla Knows First Hand The Violence That Is Gripping Costa Rica
Perhaps the speech by presidenta Laura Chinchilla on Independence Day about the rise in crime and that is everyone's responsibility was inspired by a group of armed men who mocked the security of the residential complex in Santa Ana where the presidenta lives, ransacking one of her neighbours home. Read
September 18, 2010
Costa Rica Tops List Of Drug Trafficking In Central America
Just when the Constitutional Court banned road blocks, Costa Rica, for the first time in it history, tops the list of countries with high drug trafficking in a US Department of State report on efforts to curb drug trafficking. Read
September 17, 2010
Interamericana Norte With "Paso Regulado"
Although the Interamericana Norte at the Cambronero is open, it will be under "paso regulado", as traffic through the area will have to deal with ongoing work to complete the installation of sewer drains to prevent further road cave-ins during heavy rain. Read
September 15, 2010
Turrialba and Poás Volcanoes In Simultaneous Eruptions
The Turrialba and Poás volcanoes put on a simultaneous show early Tuesday morning when, in almost concerted action, both spewed out smoke during an eruption. Read
September 15, 2010
Air Canada Adds Costa Rica To Its Sun Destinations Vacations
Air Canada and its package tour operator Air Canada Vacations said yesterday they will add seven sun destinations this winter as well as 48 flights a week to Costa Rica, the United States, the Caribbean and Mexico. Read
September 13, 2010
Website Is Guide To Investing In Costa Rica
A new website by the government of Costa Rica aims to become a step-by-step guide of procedures for investment in Costa Rica. Read
September 11, 2010
Costa Ricans Have On Average Sex Nine Times A Month, Study Reveals
According to the study "Better Sex" by the pharmaceutical Pfizer, Costa Ricans have sex nine times a week on average. The study took in the response of 464 people between the ages of 18 and 70 in Costa Rica, Panama and the Dominican Republic. Read
September 11, 2010
A Costa Rican Corporation In Days???
Imagine setting a Costa Rican corporation in matter of only days? That is the objective of the "Gobierno Digital" program of the Ministerio de Economía as an incentive for companies to set up shop in Costa Rica. Read
September 10, 2010
Tránsito Now With Its Own "Perreras"
The Policía de Tránsito (traffic police) no longer have to rely on the Fuerza Pública to haul away to jail drunk and reckless drivers, as they now have their own "perreras" or paddy wagons. Read
September 10, 2010
Costa Rica's Generational and Gender Changes
Costa Rica has always been a progressive beacon on Central America's benighted street: the reliable democracy that makes a point of eschewing a military so it can spend more on schoolteachers. But until the Feb. 7 presidential election, it had yet to select a female head of state, something its two less-developed neighbors, Nicaragua and Panama, did long ago. Now a new President-elect, Laura Chinchilla, has finally struck a blow for Ticas, female Costa Ricans. Read
September 09, 2010
Tense Moments In Santa Ana Condominium
The quiet neighbourhood of Rio Oro de Santa Ana became the centre of tension and anxiety last night when around 6pm when a man, after arguing with his wife, entrenched himself in one of the condominium of the Avalon development, holding police at bay for several hours. Read
September 09, 2010
No Miniskirts To Be Worn In Parades
No miniskirts, that is the directive for the participants of the parades for the national holidays on September 15. The directive says that the participants of the bands and cheerleaders must be "consistent with modesty, discretion and moderation". Read
September 08, 2010
Costa Ricans Criticize Constitutional Court Ruling
Costa Ricans are criticizing the ruling of the Sala Constituticional or Sala IV(Constitutional Court) that prohibits the Fuerza Pública (police) to use checkpoints throughout the country in the efforts to curb crime. Read
September 08, 2010
Costa Rica Job Prospects Positive, Manpower Poll Reveals
Manpower sees the job situation Costa Rica is positive saying it believes that some new 30.000 jobs will be created in the last quarter of this year in the region. The results are part of a poll by Manpower called "Encuesta de Expectativas de Empleo". Read
September 07, 2010
Telefonica Confirms It Will Bid To Enter Costa Rica's Cellular Market
Telefonica, Spain's largest telephone company, says it will not let the opportunity to expand into Costa Rica's cellular market pass by, confirming it will be one of the companies bidding for one of the three available licenses. Read
September 07, 2010
Liberia Airport Expansion To Begin In October
The expansion work of the Liberia airport is expected to begin next month, following several months of delays. Read
September 06, 2010
Eight Airlines Being Courted By Tourism Ministry To Add Costa Rica To Its List Of Destinations
Getting to and from Costa Rica may soon be much easier as the ministerio de Turismo is currently negotiating with eight airlines to add Costa Rica to their list of destinations. Read
September 04, 2010
Court Orders An End To Police Checkpoints in Costa Rica
The Sala Constitucional (Constitutional Court) is prohibiting the Ministerio de Seguridad Pública to use roadblocks in its efforts to reduce crime, unless there is "verified evidence" of the commission of a crime. Read
September 03, 2010
Where Are Visitors To Costa Rica Staying? Hotel Operators Ask
Although the number of visitors has increased over last year, the question by many hotel operators is, where are they staying? because they are not staying in their hotels. Read
September 02, 2010
Traffic Congestion On The Circunvalación At Its Peak Despite New Overpass
The opening of the Alajuelita overpass was to have eased traffic congestion on the Circunvalación. However, the reserve is being lived daily by drivers, especially in the areas of Hatillo 4 and 6. Read
September 01, 2010
Five Companies Show Interest In Costa Rica's Cellular Telephone Market
Costa Rica's Superintendencia de Telecomunicaciones (SUTEL) on Monday published the bidding rules for the cellular tender that sets out the terms and conditions for operators planning to bid for one of the three cellular telephony licenses. Read
September 01, 2010
Heavy Rain And Tornado Hit San José Tuesday Afternoon
August went out with a bang as San José was hit by one of the worst rain storms around 3pm. Read
September 01, 2010
Online Gambling Major Boon to Costa Rica
If you’re wondering why so many European states are introducing regulation and taxation schemes these days, you need only consider the situation with online gambling in Costa Rica to understand; a recent report on the Latin American gambling market hints that the country’s extremely liberal online gaming laws could help make it a regional economic powerhouse very soon. Read
August 30, 2010
Vehicular Restrictions of Circunvalación Has Its Days Numbered
The days of the vehicular restrictions on the Circunvalación are few, as with the opening of the Alajuelita overpass, the ministro de Obras Públicas y Transportes is serious about changes to the restrictions. Read
August 29, 2010
Czech Republic To Close Embassy In Costa Rica
The The Czech government announced on Saturday that it would be closing its embassy in Costa Rica, as well as four other countries, Congo, Venezuela, Kenya and Yemen. Read
August 27, 2010
Security Minister Criticized For Not Knowing How Many Police Officers Costa Rica Needs
A study by the Contraloría General de la República (Comptroller General's Office) found significant deficiencies in the process of recruitment of police officers by the Ministerio de Seguridad Pública (Ministry of Public Security). Read
August 27, 2010
Panama Can Be More Expensive Than Costa Rica
Today (Thursday 26 August) was the first day of the monthly ARCR seminar for potential retirees. I always make it a point to chat with other lecturers about current trends in Costa Rica and the rest of Central America. Read
August 27, 2010
Import of Vehicles More Than 7 Years Old Would Be Prohibited in Costa Rica
If legislators in Costa Rica have their way, no vehicle older than 7 years will be able to be imported. The proposal is part of the discussions before the Comisión de Asuntos Económicos based on criteria set out by the ministro de Obras Públicas y Transportes (MOPT), Francisco Jiménez. Read
August 27, 2010
Import of Vehicles More Than 7 Years Old Would Be Prohibited in Costa Rica
If legislators in Costa Rica have their way, no vehicle older than 7 years will be able to be imported. The proposal is part of the discussions before the Comisión de Asuntos Económicos based on criteria set out by the ministro de Obras Públicas y Transportes (MOPT), Francisco Jiménez. Read
August 26, 2010
Costa Rica Top Destination For the "Single Traveller"
The magazine "Travel + Leisure" places Costa Rica at the top as the best country in the world for single travel. Read
August 26, 2010
Tránsitos Ask For Cameras In Patrol Cars
Following the detention of seven traffic officials in Cartago on Tuesday, being investigated for corruption, Tránsitos are asking for the installation of cameras in their patrol cars. Read
August 25, 2010
32% Of Costa Ricans Are Late To Work Daily
Late, again, is a common occurrence in Costa Rica as one third of workers arrive late at work every morning, partly due to the worsening traffic congestion and partly due to bad habits. Read
August 24, 2010
San José - Caldera Tolls Drop On Friday
The drop in the dollar exchange means good news for users of the San José - Caldera as the highway concessionaire, Autopistas del Sol, has announced a drop in toll charges. Read
August 24, 2010
27 Detained In Jacó
The tourist town of Jacó in the central Pacific was the scene of an intense police operation over the weekend, when members of the Fuerza Pública, migración (immigration) and others, swooped on the small town for a spot check. Read
August 20, 2010
Video Calling And Push Email Coming To ICE Next Month
Customers of ICE's 3G cellular network will be able to start making video calls come next month. The state telecom, Instituto Costarricense de Electricidad (ICE), announced the service on Thursday. Read
August 18, 2010
Chinchilla: US Should Offer Anti-Drug Program For Central America
Costa Rica's presidenta Laura Chinchilla said Tuesday the United States should offer an anti-drug aid program just for Central America. The region currently gets some aid to fight organized crime through the Merida Initiative, a us$1.4 billion aid program pledged by President George W. Bush in 2007, but the bulk of the help goes to Mexico. Read
August 18, 2010
Mexican Auto Insurer Expanding To Costa Rica
Mexico automobile insurer Qualitas Compania de Seguros SAB will be joining Mapfre and Assa in providing insurance services to Costa Rica, competing directly with state insurer, the Instituto Nacional de Seguros (INS), after being authorized by the Superintendencia General de Seguros. Read
August 16, 2010
Presidenta Laura Chinchilla's First 100 Days
The first 100 days have come and gone by since Laura Chinchilla took the office of president. What do Costa Ricans think of our president and the job she is doing? Read
August 15, 2010
Miss Costa Rica Ready For The Miss Universe Title
Miss Costa Rica, Marva Wright is a shining star in the Miss Universe pageant that will be held in Las Vegas on August 23. Read
August 15, 2010
Cloudy Mornings, Cool Temperatures And Lots Of Rain In Store This Week
The weather continues to wreak havoc across Costa Rica due to a low pressure system that is dumping rain and cool temperatures throughout the country, according to the Instituto Meteorológico Nacional (INM) - national weather service. Read
August 14, 2010
Strong Waves Hit Puntarenas and Parrita, Splits Island In Two
The area of Parrita, between Jacó and Quepos on the central Pacific coast of Costa Rica is prone to flooding of the Parrita during heavy rainfalls. Read
August 14, 2010
Rotondas Without Vehicular Restrictions?
The Departamento de Ingeniería de Tránsito del MOPT is conducting an study of the vehicular restriction of San José with the idea to eliminate the Circunvalación from the restrictions once the Alajuelita overpass is opened at the end of this month. Read
August 13, 2010
Costa Rica's Constitutional Court Says NO to Gay Referendum
Costa Rica's Sala Constitucional (Constitutional Court) has blocked the Tribunal Supremo de Elecciones (TSE) - electoral tribunal - from including from the December municipal elections process a referendum that would have let voters decide if same-sex civil unions should be allowed in Costa Rica. Read
August 11, 2010
Hotel Del Rey Shot At
A moving car shot at the front door of Costa Rica's infamous hotel, the Hotel Del Rey, in downtown San José late Tuesday evening. Read
August 10, 2010
Best Prepare To Avoid Traffic Chaos On The General Cañas
If you are one of the tens of thousands who uses the autopista General Cañas passing by the Virilla river bridge or "platina brdige" as it is commonly known, best to start preparing an alternate route says the Dirección de Tránsito (traffi department of the MOPT). Read
August 09, 2010
Giants Ready To Compete In Costa Rica's Cellular Market
The day when in Costa Rica consumers can choose their cellular telephone carrier is coming closer and the big players are getting ready to compete against the state owned telecom that has been a monopoly in Costa Rica for six decades and currently the sole operator, the Instituto Costarricense de Electricidad (ICE). Read
August 07, 2010
Adventure Race Dashes Through Costa Rica
Costa Rica will be home to the Adventure Race World Series 2010 (ARWS) where more than 20 teams from over 12 different countries will join in the adrenaline-filled race towards the finish line. Read
August 07, 2010
Miss Costa Rica 2010 Heading For Miss Universe Pageant In Las Vegas
The contestants of the Miss Universe 2010 Pageant, the 59th edition of one of the world most prestigious Beauty Pageants, will be heading their way to the event held at the Mandalay Bay Events Center in the Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino, Las Vegas on August 23 2010. Read
August 07, 2010
Johnny Makes It Official, Wants To Stay On As Mayor of San José
It's now official, Johnny Araya wants to continue to be mayor of San José and will be heading into the December municipal elections representing the Partido Liberación Nacional (PLN) party. Read
August 05, 2010
"Puente Platina" To Be Fixed in December, MOPT Announces
It's been more than a year since when the "puente platina" become a daily headache for those using the autopista General Cañas. And a year since the last three attempts to fix the problem. Read
August 04, 2010
Opening Of Cellular Competition Must Be Ready In 3 Months, Constitutional Court Orders
The Sala Constitucional (Constitutional Court) has ordered the opening process of cellular service competition must be completed and adjuticated within a period not exceeding three months from today. Read
August 04, 2010
"ICE Needs To Focus On The Needs Of The Customers", Says New ICE Boss
Eduardo Doryan is the new "boss" at the Instituto Costarricense de Electricidad (ICE). Read
August 03, 2010
The Presidenta And The "Romeria"
Presidenta Laura Chinchilla walked among the faithful to Cartago from Tres Rios on Sunday and then took part in the August 2 traditional ceremonies in front of the Basilica de Cartago, calling for an end to violence in Costa Rica and for families to foster values of respect, affection and solidarity in their children. Read
August 03, 2010
Costa Rican Government Moves To Streamline Procedures For Erection of Mobile Communications Towers
Mobile telephone operators looking to Costa Rica as a new market just got a boost from the central government who is working with local municipalities to ensure that operators will not face long and tiresome processes in setting up their communications towers. Read
August 03, 2010
Municipalities In Costa Rica To Cash In On Opening Of Mobile Telecommunications Market
Municipalities in Costa Rica are looking to cash in on the opening of the telecommunications market by charging operators a tax or license fee to erect and maintain radio towers. This would be the first time that municipalities would be allowed some control on the location of the radio base towers and a new source of revenue. Read
August 02, 2010
Costa Rica Hits Up China For $221 Million Dollars.We Need It More Than They Do.
During the meeting China’s Foreign Minister, Yang Jiechi, Costa Rica’s president, Laura Chinchilla, is following the steps of her predecessor and mentor, Oscar Arias, sticking out her hand for more money from the Asiatic giant. Read
August 01, 2010
Experts Warn Of More Disasters For Failing Road Network
Although the Ministerio de Obras Públicas y Transportes (MOPT) and the CONAVI recognize the problem faced at many bridges, they say there is not much they can do against the forces of nature. Read
August 01, 2010
Bright Future For China-Costa Rica Ties: Ambassador
The establishment of diplomatic ties between China and Costa Rica in 2007 and the rapid growth of bilateral ties since then are in the interests of the two countries and peoples, said China's ambassador to the central American nation. Read
July 31, 2010
Visit Costa Rica By Way Of Facebook
The Instituto Costarricense de Turismo (ICT) - Costa Rica's Tourism Board - has launched its official Visit Costa Rica Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube channels, aimed at catering to the increasing demand for information about this small and peaceful Central American country. Read
July 30, 2010
Chaos On The Interamericana Norte
The complete closure of the Interamericana Norte at the rio Seco (kilometre 127) will not only affect tourism to Guanacaste, but also the supply of goods, like fresh fruits and vegetables and rice - both to Guanacaste and other provinces in the country. Read
July 30, 2010
Santa Ana Chosen As Site For Wind Farm
It will cost us$50 million dollars and by August 2012, Santa Ana will be generating wind power electricity for 5.700 homes in the Central Valley. Read
July 29, 2010
The Ministro de Cultura Can Perform At Concerts And Sell His Records
The ministro de Cultura, Manuel Obregón and his vice-minister, Iván Rodríguez, can perform publicly at concerts - free or paid - and sell records, according to a decision by the Contraloría General de la República (Comptroller's Office). Read
July 28, 2010
"Wild Bill" And Wife On Their Way Back To Panama
Using Costa Rica as a rest stop, the two foreigners detained in Nicaragua have been clearly identified as the American couple wanted in Panama in the death of at least one U.S. woman and up to six others, Nicaraguan authorities saying on Tuesday that they would hand the couple over to Panamanian authorities. Read
July 27, 2010
Costa Rica Nears Carbon-Neutral Goal
In its August issue (released this week), International Living magazine reports that Costa Rica is nearing a goal it set for itself in 2007, to be carbon-neutral in time for the country’s 200th birthday in 2021. Read
July 24, 2010
Earthquakes Now A Major Concern On The San José - Caldera
Just when you thought it was safe again to drive the Ruta 27 (San José - Caldera) a new concern has cropped up - earthquakes. Read
July 23, 2010
Tourism In Costa Rica Grew 3.96% In First Half Of 2010
Instituto Costarricense de Turismo (ICT) - Costa Rica's Tourism Board - has an optimistic outlook for this year, expecting to reach two million visitors for 2010. The optimism is based on the 3.96% increase in tourism the first half of this year as compared to the same period in 2009. Read
July 23, 2010
US Coast Guard Cutter Aids Costa Rica Arrests
The Maine-based U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Tahoma worked with Costa Rican authorities after two suspected go-fast vessels were interdicted off the coast of Costa Rica Sunday night and Monday morning this week. Read
July 23, 2010
Rains Affect 150, Take Down Bridges And Homes
More than 150 people in various areas of Costa Rica were affected by the heavy rains of Wednesday afternoon and Tuesday night, according to figures released by the Comisión Nacional de Emergencias (CNE). Read
July 22, 2010
Buses To Be Target Of Intense Police Action To Combat Rise In Crime In Costa Rica
In an effort to combat rising crime, the Ministro de Seguridad Pública, José María Tijerino, announced an intensive police operation on buses on all routes around the country. Tijerino said that the police action has the support of bus operators and will take effect starting next week. Read
July 21, 2010
Pre-Columbian Burial Ground Unearthed In Costa Rica
(AFP) An 800-year-old, pre-Columbian burial ground with baskets full of human remains was unearthed at a building site outside San José, National Museum archaeologists said Tuesday. "It's a funeral complex made from river stones and slabs," Maritza Gutierrez, who heads the digs at the Tres Rios district 10 kilometers (six miles) from the capital, told reporters. Read
July 19, 2010
ICE Opens Up Its Telecommunications Network
Costa Rica’s Instituto Costarricense de Electricidad (ICE) has interfaced its network with Ticom and CallMyWay, two telecom companies offering VOIP services. Read
July 17, 2010
Conavi Promises Better Roads In Costa Rica
If you have lived or visited Costa Rica for some time one thing you will not, the roads are bad. And although they have improved in the last few years, the road situation is still far from acceptable. However, that may soon change if the Consejo Nacional de Vialidad (Conavi) holds true to its promise. Read
July 17, 2010
Competition Prompts Lower Guaro Prices In Costa Rica
The Fábrica Nacional de Licores (Fanal) - the state owner distillery - is facing a problem it has never seen before, a drop in sales in guaro that it produces and markets under the "Cacique" barn, that will probably lead to a deficit for this year. Read
July 17, 2010
Costa Rica In the Nude
The Desire Group of Costa Rica has announced an exclusive all nude adult only tour of Costa Rica, where visitors will spend 8 days / 7 nights in three destinations in Costa Rica. The entire vacation is done mostly in the nude, weather permitting, says the press release. Read
July 16, 2010
GE Sells Its Shares In Costa Rican Bank To Colombians
The Grupo Aval Acciones y Valores SA of Colombia has purchased from General Electric (GE) 75% of the shares it held in BAC-Credomatic. Read
July 16, 2010
US Military Surge in Costa Rica May Fan Regional Tensions
In a controversial decision that is likely to fan the flames of regional tensions in Latin America, Costa Rica recently granted the US permission to move 7,000 troops and 46 warships (along with their accompanying planes and helicopters) into Costa Rican waters. Read
July 16, 2010
President Chinchilla Says Costa Ricas Are Right On Insecurity
Presidenta Laura Chinchilla found in favour of Costa Ricans who are calling for greater security in the streets, parks and neighbourhoods. Read
July 15, 2010
Government Sets August Deadline For Opening of Cellular Communications in Costa Rica
The government has its eyes on August as a goal to get closer to awarding the first licenses to cellular telephone operators in Costa Rica, who will compete with the state operator, the Instituto Costarricense de Electricidad (ICE), now that the co-ordination process is in the hands of the government. Read
July 14, 2010
U.S. Top Travel Destination For Costa Ricans
More and more Costa Ricans are vacationing in the United States and the main points of entry are Miami, Orlando, New York, Los Angeles and Washington. Panama is the second most important destination for vacationing Ticos. Read
July 12, 2010
Costa Rica And China In Culture Clash
The culture clash between Costa Rica and the Peoples Republic of China (PRC) is taking on shape and form. It is a picture of assumptions, a sense of privilege and two cultures remotely different. To the Chinese credit, they might have read Costa Rica incorrectly. Our signals have not been all that clear. Read
July 11, 2010
"Twitter To Be Formed and Informed" Says Twitter Co-Founder In Costa Rica
Co-creator of Twitter, Dom Sagolla, told in San José, Costa Rica, at the Cumbre del Futuro en Costa Rica (Summit of the Future), that the microblogging system is today "a way to be formed and informed". Read
July 11, 2010
Waka Waka (This Time for Africa): Shakira To Rock World Cup
Though Colombia never made it to the World Cup 2010, it is well represented, again, today with the curves and moves of Shakira, the Colombian pop superstar, will be centre stage with he latest song, "Wak Waka" the official song for World Cup 2010, has become the sound that captures the excitement of the most awaited soccer event. Read
July 10, 2010
San José - Caldera Re-Opened!
The 11 kilometres stretch of Ruta 27 or the San José - Caldera as it is commonly known re-opened this morning following following a decision by the ministro de Obras Publicas y Transportes (MOPT), Francisco Jiménez, Friday afternoon. Read
July 09, 2010
New ¢20.000 Note Next Month
The new ¢20.000 colones notes will hit the streets on August 11 said the Banco Central de Costa Rica (BCCR), Costa Rica's central bank. Read
July 09, 2010
Increase In U.S. Tourists Arrivals Expected This Month
Tour operators, hotels and any others in the tourism industry have something to smile for this month following the results of a study by the Cámara Nacional de Turismo (Canatur) that forecasts an increase in U.S. tourtist arrivals this month. Read
July 09, 2010
Ombudswoman Wants A Review Of the Tolls On The San José - Caldera
The Defensoría de los Habitantes (Office of the Ombudswoman) is questioning the manner in which the toll rates were set for the San José - Caldera and says that drivers may be overpaying. Read
July 07, 2010
Costa Rica's President Defends Decision On Military
Costa Rica's president, Laura Chinchilla, defended the decision to allow U.S. warships and Marines in Costa Rica's national waters, saying that the authorization is not significantly different than previous authorizations with respect to the cooperation agreement signed a decade ago. Read
July 06, 2010
Costa Rican Government's Strategy Against Youth Violence
Costa Rica's presidenta, Laura Chinchilla, summoned a group of experts from the ministerio de Seguridad (Security), Justicia (Justice) and Educación Pública (Education) to develop a joint prevention strategy against youth violence. Read
July 05, 2010
Expansion Of San José Airport To Be Completed In November
Its only five and six months behind schedule, but by November the expansion of the Juan Santamaría (San José) airport will be complete. Read
July 03, 2010
Costa Rica's Opposition Rejects Entry Of US Naval Forces
As is customary, the US asks for authorization of Costa Rica's legislature before entry of any US warship and soldiers in Costa Rican waters. And as customary, the Costa Rica legislature grants its permission, as was the case on Friday. Read
July 03, 2010
Costa Rica's Tourist Arrivals Up 90.000 For 2010
The tourism industry is beginning to smile again, following a tough 2009, with a forecast of some 90.000 more tourist arrivals in the first five months of 2010 over the same period last year. Read
July 03, 2010
Autopistas Out Of Pocket For Loss Of Tolls And Repair Work On San José - Caldera
The Autopistas del Sol may be regretting the deal with made with the government of Oscar Arias when it signed on the dotted line to build and manage the San José - Caldera under a concession contract. Read
July 03, 2010
Pacheco Says Laura Chinchilla Is Honest But Ill-Advised
Former president of Costa Rica, Abel Pacheco, in analyzing the first days of the administration of Laura Chinchilla, says "doña Laura is honest, but she is ill-advised". Read
June 28, 2010
Presidenta Chinchilla "The Bad Guy" In The Arias Plan For 2014?
In less than two months in office, it is a question if Presidenta, Laura Chinchilla may be losing control and respect by her team as well as her opponents? For sure, she is being challenged from all sides and the public has openly expressed its concern. Read
June 26, 2010
Future Of San José - Caldera To Be Known Tuesday
The re-opening of the Orotina - Atenas section of the San José - Caldera will be made public on Tuesday, said the ministro del MOPT, Francisco Jiménez, on Friday. Read
June 26, 2010
KFC In Costa Rica To Pay US$2.000 To Woman For Cockroach In Food
Costa Rica's KFC franchisee was ordered by the Tribunal Primero Civil de San José to pay Natalia Carrillo Zamora one million colones for serving her a "cockroach" in her meal. Read
June 25, 2010
US Insurer Gets OK to Operate in Costa Rica
New Orleans-based Pan-American Life Insurance Group (PALIG), a leading provider of insurance and financial services, announced today that its subsidiary, Pan-American Life Insurance de Costa Rica, S.A. has received final approval from the Superintendencia General de Seguros SUGESE, Costa Rica's Insurance Regulator) to operate in Costa Rica. Read
June 24, 2010
Imprudent Pedestrians Among The Most Frequent Cause Of Traffic Accidents In Costa Rica
Pedestrians The sign at the toll station east of the airport reads "Costa Rica loves peace, but has a war on its roads". That statement, reminding drivers daily, cannot be more true, especially when it comes to motorcyclists and pedestrians, who suffer the worst of a traffic accident. Read
June 22, 2010
ICE Ordered To Provide Internet Service In León XIII
If you can't get ICE to move its left foot to provide services, there is always the Sala Constitucional, who has ordered the state telecom to provide a resident of León XIII internet service. Read
June 21, 2010
ICE Keeping Competition At Bay, Charged With Unfair Competitiveness Practices
It is not surprising that the Instituto Costarricense de Electricidad (ICE) - state telecom - has been holding back competition in the opening of telecommunications, both in cellular services and internet and VoIP (Voice Over Internet Protocol), in the latter charging private operators high fees for an interconnection to the national telephone network operated exclusively by ICE. Read
June 18, 2010
Costa Rica's Consumer Confidence On The Rise
The sounds of the cash registers spurred by consumer confidence meant an increase of almost four thousand new jobs for the first four months of 2010 in the retail sector. Read
June 18, 2010
Autopistas Losing ¢9.1 Million Daily In Tolls From Road Closure
The Autopistas del Sol, the concessionare of the San José - Caldera isn't talking but it is estimated that it is losing some ¢9.1 million colones daily only from the tolls on passenger vehicles. When you add the tolls paid by buses, trucks and vans, that number could easily be double or more. Read
June 17, 2010
High Risk Roads Are All Around Us In Costa Rica
The ministerio de Obras Públicas y Transportes (MOPT) acted on the side of caution by closing down the 11 kilometres of the San José - Caldera between Atenas and orotina, as rock falls and mud slides placed drivers and lives at risk. But, what about all the other "risky" highways like the General Cañas, Ruta 32, the Bernardo Soto, etc??? Shouldn't they all be closed as well? Read
June 15, 2010
Extortion Calls From La Reforma Prison Continue
Prisoners of La Reforma continue using contraband cellular phones from their cells to extort their victims on the outside, demanding cash payment to bank accounts or associates on the oustise in return for the safety of the victim and their families. Read
June 12, 2010
Autopistas Says They Will Keep To Same Work Schedule
Although he is not happy about it, Crisitan Sandoval, the general manager of Autopistas del Sol is accepting the order to shut down the 11 kilometres of the San José - Caldera between Atenas and Orotina, saying the concessionaire will not vary from its program of "intervention" and the existing work schedule. Read
June 11, 2010
3G Internet Down For Hours On Thursday
If you couldn't connect with your 3G, either by cell phone or data card, you were not alone as the Instituto Costarricense de Electricidad (ICE) system was down between noon and 3pm on Thursday. Read
June 10, 2010
41% Would Switch From ICE
When competition in cellular service hits Costa Rica, would you switch from ICE? According to a poll by Unimer between October and November 2009, 41% of those polled said yes. Read
June 10, 2010
Internet In Costa Rica To Be 100 Times Faster
Get ready for lightning speed internet service in the coming year as the Radiográfica Costarricense (RACSA) retools, investing some us$360 million dollars in infrastructure that will increase connection speed up to 100 times that of today. Read
June 09, 2010
GE Considering Selling Stake In BAC
General Electric (GE) announced on Tuesday that it would be selling its 75% stake in BAC-Credomatic, which owns among other financial institutions in the region, BAC San José. Read
June 09, 2010
High Cost of Phones Cools Off Costa Ricans On 3G
The sale of 3G cellular lines in Costa Rica has not gone the same way as in the past, where within weeks the majority and months the total of all new lines issued were bought like the proverbial pancakes. Read
June 08, 2010
Flexible Work and Business Hours Expected During World Cup
As of this Friday many businesses in Costa Rica, including large companies like McFlorida Ice & Farm (Cerverceria de Costa Rica), Grupo Nación, Procter & Gamble, EPA, Intel, McDonalds, etc, will be allowing their employees to enjoy, at least a number if not all, the games of the World Cup. Read
June 08, 2010
More Expropriation Is Answer To Improving The San José - Caldera
The answer to the continuing problems of falling rocks and mudslides is the expropriation of more lands adjacent to the San José - Caldera, that will end up costing taxpayers and additional us$1.3 million dollars. Read
June 07, 2010
Costa Rica Scores Good and Bad In The Global Competitiveness Report 2009-2010
Costa Rica has the embarrassing position of being placed in 128th position of the 133 nations included in the The Global Competitiveness Report 2009-2010 in respect of available services for cellular lines according to the number of inhabitants. Read
June 05, 2010
Autopistas Says Problems On The San José - Caldera Are "Superficial"
The concessionaire Autopistas del Sol that built and manages the San José - Caldera categorizes the rock fall and land slides on the highway as "superficial" in its report to the ministro de Obras Públicas y Transportes (MOPT), Francisco Jiménez. Read
June 05, 2010
Little Rain Predicted For The Weekend
Although only yesterday the Instituto Meteorológico Nacional (IMN) - national weather service - warned of possible downpours from tropical storms, it is now saying that there will be little rainfall, it at all, this weekend. Read
June 04, 2010
Costa Rica’s Economic Recovery Is Picking Up Speed, IMF Says
The Executive Board of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) completed on May 28, 2010 the third and final review of Costa Rica’s economic performance under a program supported by a 15-month Stand-By Arrangement (SBA) approved on April 10, 2009. Read
June 04, 2010
Ex Foreign Minister Stagno Resigns From UN Post
Avoiding embarrassing the new administration of Laura Chinchilla may have been the motive behind the quick resignation of former Foreign Minister Bruno Stagno after it was learned that he had self-assigned himself the post of Costa Rican Ambassador to the United Nations. Read
June 04, 2010
Arenal Volcano Has A New Cone
The Arenal volcano has a new cone, according to expers of the Organismo Sismológico y Vulcanológico de Costa Rica (OVSICORI) and thea Universidad Nacional (UNA), after a close inspection of the colossus. Read
June 03, 2010
Costa Rica Firm On No Open Pit Gold Mining
Costa Rica is one three Central American countries that have called a halt to new open pit mining projects. Fearing environmental and political fallout from mining, Costa Rican president, Laura Chinchilla, signed the decree banning all new open-pit gold mining within minutes of taking office on May 8, 2010. Read
June 03, 2010
Laura: Firm and Honest
It's a new era for Costa Ricans moving forward. A short while ago, Costa Rica became 1 of 13 countries being led by female leadership. Laura Chinchilla has promised to stick with the Arias directives however improve on them. Read
June 01, 2010
6.1 Magnitude Earthquake Shakes Costa Rica
An earthquake measuring 6.1 magnitude on the Richter scale hit the Pacific coast of Costa Rica on Monday night, the U.S. Geological Society (USGS) said last night, while the local geological experts, the Observatorio Vulcanológico y Sismológico de Costa Rica (OVSICORI) fumbles with the information. Read
June 01, 2010
Costa Ricans Urge Ban On Smoking in Public Places
Doctors, health researchers, former smokers and many others are asking for legislators to approve a bill that would ban smoking in public places, for a healthier environment and to reduce the exposure of those with respiratory and cardiac disease to smoke. Read
June 01, 2010
"Platina" Bridge Sends 15 To Hospital
In an early morning accident between a truck of the Coca Cola company and bus sent 15 people to hospital. The accident occurred on the Virilla or "platina" bridge on the autopista General Cañas. Read
May 31, 2010
Colombians In Costa Rica Vote In Presidential Elections
While millions in Colombia were taking to the polls, thousands of Colombians living in Costa Rica took part in Colombia's presidential elections, casting their vote at Museo de los Niños in San José to vote, while many more were on hand to see the results and celebrate the day. Read
May 29, 2010
San José - Caldera Fully Open
The autopista San José - Caldera yesterday afternoon was fully open and free of debris from falling rocks and mudslides occurring during the previous days of heavy rain. Read
May 28, 2010
Facebook Played An Important Role In Derailment Of Costa Rica's Legislators Pay Hike
Social groups in Costa Rica now don't have to hit the streets to put pressure on politicians and the government. In 2010, Ticos are taking advantage of social media systems like Facebook to express their opposition like the salary hike or "salariazo" legislators had intended on voting themselves. Read
May 28, 2010
Autopistas Rules Out Opening Tolls When It Closes The San José - Caldera
More than one driver has asked the same question, why does Autopistas del Sol charge tolls when they close the San José - caldera, which in many cases involves paying double tolls when one decides to turn around. Read
May 27, 2010
San José - Caldera Instills Fear Among Drivers
Driving on the San José - Caldera has become a Russian roulette, as fallen rocks and mudslides play with people's lives. In the four months the highway has been opened there have been numerous problems, which are now intensified with the start of the rainy season. Read
May 27, 2010
Laura Puts Legislator's In Their Place: Pay Hike Dead and Buried!
Listening to the will or the people or the finding of a collective conscience or perhaps heeding to the stern warning of presidenta Chinchilla, legislators have given up on giving themselves a hefty salary raise even though the bill had already been approved in first vote. Read
May 27, 2010
Laura Chinchilla, Costa Rica's First Woman President
While in Spain to negotiate the trade agreement with the European Union earlier this month, Costa Rica's first woman president took the time to be interviewed by Spain's El País daily, who is being described as the only woman president in Latin America coming to power without the "aupadas" (the help of her husband). Read
May 26, 2010
Early Morning 5.1 Earthquake Rocks Costa Rica
A 5.1 on the Richter Scale earthquake rocked Costa Rica's Pacific coast this morning at 6:47am. Read
May 26, 2010
Autopistas Del Sol Responsible For Accident Damages On San José - Caldera, Says MOPT
The falling rocks this weekend on the San José - Caldera has raised questions of who is responsible for the damage suffered by drivers involved in accidents on the road. Read
May 26, 2010
Another Tránsito Nabbed For Corruption
Yet another Tránsito (traffic cop) falls to corruption, when yesterday a 30 year veteran of the Policía de Tránsito (traffic police) was detained by agents of the Organismo de Investigación Judicial (OIJ) for taking bribes. Read
May 25, 2010
Arenal Volcano Erupts
Costa Rica's most famous and visited volcano, the Arenal, put on show for the thousands of visitors to the arrea and locals, as it erupted, spewing geysers of lava, ash and toxic gases from its crater and forcing the evacuation of the national park where it is located. Read
May 22, 2010
Cellular Operators Question Conditions Of Opening Of Cellular Market In Costa Rica
The Real Intercontinental hotel in Escazú was the scene yesterday for the three telephone companies interested in setting shop in Costa Rica to compete with the Instituto Costarricense de Electricidad (ICE) in the cellular telephone market. Read
May 22, 2010
Costa Rica Sets Sights On 2.5 Million Tourist Arrivals By 2014
The world economic crisis did not escape Costa Rica's tourism industry, falling 8% in 2009 over 2008, meaning less tourists and less income for tourist operations. Read
May 22, 2010
Presidenta Chinchilla Says She Will Limit Her Foreign Trips
Just ending her trip to Spain, Costa Rica's new president, Laura Chinchilla, said in Madrid that she will limit her trips outside of Costa Rica only to those that have a direct impact on national matters. Presidenta Chinchilla noted that she will take only trips on matters of national security or opening new commercial markets. Read
May 21, 2010
6.1 or 6.2, Costa Rica Shook For A Whole Minute
An earthquake struck Costa Rica at 4:16pm (local time) with the epicentre located 30 kilometres off the coast of Quepos. The quake that lasted almost a minute was felt across the country. Read
May 20, 2010
ICE To Improve GSM Coverage On The San José - Caldera
Driving along the San José - Caldera can be frustrating for those on the GSM cellular network, as calls are dropped regularly along different sections of the highway. Read
May 19, 2010
Costa Rica Offer Travel Deals For Those Traveling To Europe
In response to the latest airline crisis caused by the volcano eruption in Iceland, Costa Rica’s travel industry is offering travelers a variety of enticing promotional travel packages that will allow them to spend their hard-earned vacation days in an exciting destination. Read
May 19, 2010
Could Costa Rica's Debi Nova Be The Next Shakira?
Slowly but surely Costa Rica's Debi Nova is making a name for herself and could hit the top of the charts with her new album Luna Nueva released on Tuesday. Read
May 19, 2010
ICE Offers New Service: “Kölbi Messenger”
For those who ant to connect with your hotmail (live) or yahoo messenger contacts without the cost of an internet connection or wi-fi capabilities of the cell phone, ICE now offers its “Kölbi Messenger”. Read
May 18, 2010
EU And Central America Reach Free Trade Deal
The European Union (UE) and Central America has reached their first free trade deal on Tuesday, as the Eu opens a summit with Latin American leaders focused on expanding economic ties. Read
May 15, 2010
ICE Begins Mobile Internet Service For Real On Sunday
Beginning on Sunday, May 16, the Instituto Costarricense de Electricidad (ICE) will be offering its "advanced" mobile internet service, ending the "promotional" phase of the service that has been operating since January. Read
May 13, 2010
Added Police Presence Was Not Noticed Yesterday
The new ministro de Seguridad, José María Tijerino, promised to have more police on the streets by Wednesday (yesterday). But, the illusion of seeing more police on the streets and to feel safer, will have to be filed as an un-kept promise. At least for now. Read
May 13, 2010
Costa Rica: A Wet Rainy Season Expected
The Instituto Meteorológico Nacional (IMN) - Costa Rica's national weather service - is predicting an "intense" 2010 rainy season, with lots and lots of rain, in contrast to the light rainy season of 2009. Read
May 12, 2010
No Cellular Competition For This Year. Maybe Next.
Although many are holding their hopes for competition to ICE's cellular service, it will not happen this year. At best, the competition will be around in 2011, if not 2012. Read
May 12, 2010
Presidenta Heading To Spain
With the excuse to complete the trade deal with Europe, presidenta (as she likes to be called) Laura Chinchilla, announced her trip to Spain on Saturday. The presidential chair hasn't even molded to her yet, she is off globetrotting. Read
May 11, 2010
Couple Charged With Slavery Of Their Nicaraguan Domestic Employee
She was sixteen when she came to Costa Rica from her native Nicaragua with the promise of work. Yesterday, at the age of 22, the girl, now a woman, was rescued from being a domestic slave for the last six years. Read
May 10, 2010
Dollar May Hit ¢550 Plus By Week's End
Will the dollar exchange hit ¢550 or higher in the coming days or week? One group, INS Valores, seems to think so. Read
May 08, 2010
The BIG PARTY Is On For Today!
Laura Chinchilla, the first woman president in the history of Costa Rica, will be sworn in today at noon, in what can only be described as one big party, as thousands are expected gather in the Sabana park to witness the event, which is followed later in the day with a spectacular show that includes international artists like Ruben Blades and Costa Rica's own, Debi Nova. Read
May 08, 2010
Chinchilla Faces Tough Challenges: Rise in Crime, Poverty And Keeping Promise To Help Poor And Elderly
President-elect, Laura Chinchilla, who is sworn in today at noon as the country's first female president, faces a number of challenges during the next four years: rising poverty, increased insecurity and fiscal deficit made worse by the world economic crisis. Read
May 08, 2010
For Arias, Today Is A Dream Come True. Almost. Shakira Won't Be Coming.
The swearing in of Laura Chinchilla, the first female president of Costa Rica, is a dream come true for outgoing president, Oscar Arias. Read
May 08, 2010
Many See Drug Trafficking Widespread, Rising in Latin America
Gallup surveys suggest illicit drug trafficking is common in communities throughout much of Latin America, including in some of the most well-developed countries such as Chile and Costa Rica. Read
May 07, 2010
Arias Is Critical Of A Costa Rica That "Seems More Like Italy And Less Like The US"
"This country (Costa Rica) seems more like Italy and less like the United States", were the words spoken by outgoing Costa Rican president, Oscar Arias. At least that is the conclusions of the prez, who ends his term at noon tomorrow. Read
May 07, 2010
SUTEL Publishes Bidding Rules For Cellular Phone Operators
The opening of the cellular telecommunications market in Costa Rica took another giant step forward in a process that is slower than a turtle's run, as the Superintendencia de Telecomunicaciones (SUTEL) published this week a preliminary request for bids. Read
May 04, 2010
Irazú Volcano Lagoon Dry
The water lagoon in the Irazú volcano has disappeared according to the reports by the Universidad de Costa Rica (UCR). Read
May 03, 2010
Costa Rica: Is This A “Degrees R Us” Society Or What?
Has anyone stopped lately to count the number of different universities in our little country of 4.2 million people something the size of West Virginia? As of last count, I came up with 55. That has to be some kind of world’s first, right? Perhaps more “U”s than failed beach condo projects. Read
May 02, 2010
Arias Extols Achievements And Avoids Self-Criticism In His Last Report To The Nation
May 1 in Costa Rica is a strange day. A holiday for many who head out to the parks and beaches, while many others head to the malls and specialty retail stores to spend their paycheck as payday is the day before. But all gather in front of their television for the annual speech by the president. Read
May 01, 2010
Costa Rica Leads Central America in Information Technology
Costa Rica leads in Central America in information technology according to the World Economic Forum and Insead Business School, one of the world's leading and largest graduate business schools. Read
May 01, 2010
US Embassy Donates Equipment To Catch Child Molesters And Pimps
Agents of the sex crime unit of the Poder Judicial have some new modern tools to catch childe molesters and pimps, thanks to a donation by the United States Embassy in San José. Read
May 01, 2010
Arias Thanks China For The New Stadium
Before the downpour on Friday, Costa Rican president, Oscar Arias, visited the construction site of the new national stadium to thank the Republic of China for the donation of what will be the most modern stadium in Central America, at a cost of us$83 million dollars. Read
April 30, 2010
It's Official, The Costanera Sur Is Now Complete
On Thursday, Costa Rica's president, Oscar Arias, made official the completion of the Costanera Sur, the 42 kilometre road between Quepos and Playa Dominical. Read
April 29, 2010
San José Airport Terminal Finally Completed And Delivered!
The long lines to enter Costa Rica at San José international airport are over, the departures and arrivals area is now bigger and with more retail stores and restaurants and the airlines counter is not longer crowded. That was the scenario yesterday as the Ministerio de Obras Públicas y Transportes (MOPT) and Aeris inaugurated the completion of the terminal, following years of delays. Read
April 29, 2010
Hilton Papagayo Goes "All Inclusive"
Hilton Papagayo Costa Rica Resort & Spa announced the launch of its all-inclusive experience, packed with an eco-focus perfect for the environmentally conscious traveler. Read
April 29, 2010
San José - Caldera Tolls Coming Down Again
The Autopistas del Sol, the concessionaire of the autopista San José - caldera announced a reduction of tolls beginning Monday, May 3, reducing the cost of the travel from end to end by ¢90 colones, from the current ¢1.830 to ¢1.740. Read
April 28, 2010
Costa Rica Gets New ¢20.000 Note In July, ¢50.000 To Follow
The Banco Central de Costa Rica - Central Bank - on Tuesday unveiled the new ¢20.000 and ¢50.000 notes that will be in circulation in July 2010. Read
April 26, 2010
41 Months To Build, Rather to Re-Build, 1.3 Kilometre Road?
How long does it take to build, rather, re-build, a 1.3 kilometer road in Costa Rica? 41 months, it appears, as the time it took the Ministerio de Obra Pública y Transportes (MOPT) from the awarding of the bid to the delivery of the project last week. Read
April 24, 2010
Immigration Delays Fines For Illegals
The Dirección General de Migración y Extranjería (immigration service) will not be charging the us$100 fine for living illegally in the country for at least another six months, explained the director, Mario Zamora. Read
April 24, 2010
Laura Sets Tone For Her Administration
"If after defining the priorities, the ministers want to do other things, they are welcome, as long as the collective priorities are clear", were the words of president-elect, Laura Chinchilla, of her designated ministers and institutions heads, in the first meeting of her designated government. Read
April 23, 2010
PLN To Push For An End To Riteve Monopoly
The vehicular inspection company, Riteve, may have its days of monopoly numbered if the new legislators of the Partido Liberación Nacional (PLN) have their way. Read
April 23, 2010
Former Costa Rican President Figueres Backs Sustainability
Economic growth does not have to come at the expense of the environment, said José María Figueres, Costa Rica's former president in a speech at Duke University on Thursday. Read
April 22, 2010
The Mystery Of the Devaluating Dollar in Costa Rica
For months now there has been a Costa Rica mystery gone un-answered and even less; justified. The mystery is: “How come the Dollar has devalued so much in this country while appreciating against so many other world currencies, hard currencies, but not the “off the radar” Colon?” Read
April 21, 2010
Wind Farm Goes Online In Costa Rica
Costa Rica is one step closer to its goal of getting 100 percent of its energy from renewable generation sources, as this week it inaugurated a wind farm installed in Guanacaste. Read
April 21, 2010
Cameras To Keep An Eye On Crime In San José
50 cameras will be keeping an eye on San José to vigil criminal activity and its images to be used in court as proof against those who commit offences. Read
April 20, 2010
IMF: "Economic Recovery In Costa Rica Is Firmly Underway"
A staff team from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) visited Costa Rica during April 7–13, 2010 to conduct the third and final review of the Stand-By Arrangement (SBA) approved in April 2009. The mission met with Finance Minister Jenny Phillips, Central Bank Governor Francisco de Paula Gutiérrez, other senior officials, and representatives of the financial sector. Read
April 20, 2010
Costa Rican Wins 2010 Goldman Environmental Prize
Costa Rica's Randall Arauz is one of six around the world to be awarded the 2010 Goldman Environmental Prize of and taking home$150.000 each each for their activism. Read
April 17, 2010
Costa Rica Constitutional Court Rules To Reopen Gold Mine Project
The Costa Rican Constitutional Court or Sala IV ruled on Friday that a small Canadian mining company can proceed with its open-pit gold mine at Crucitas in San Carlos, striking down complaints from environmental groups that the project was destroying virgin forest. Read
April 17, 2010
Marva Wright Crowned Miss Costa Rica 2010
Hacienda Pinilla, in Santa Cruz, Guanacaste, was full of beauty last night with the conclusion of the Miss Costa Rica 2010 beauty pageant, that 24 year old Marva Wright taking the crown. Read
April 16, 2010
Street Vendor Protests In Downtown San José Forces Closure Of Many Retail Stores
Shouting "if we can't sell, they can't either", a group of "vendedores ambulantes" (street vendors) ensured many of the retail stores along the boulevards (Avenida Central) and Avenidas 4 to 8, shut down their stores in fear of being looted. Read
April 16, 2010
How Owning Costa Rica Property Can Improve Your Life
In today's world, many people are looking to improve their quality of life. In this article we will discuss how owning Costa Rica property can help. Read
April 15, 2010
EXPO CONSTRUCCION 2010 Kicks Off Today
Expo Construccíon y Vivienda Costa Rica 2010 kicks off today at the San José with more than 200 exhibiting companies taken part, with an expected 15.000 visitors during the five day event. Read
April 13, 2010
Costa Rica Police Patrol In A Hummer
The Vigilancia Aérea de la Fuerza Pública (Air Surveillance police unit) is showing off its new patrol vehicle, a Hummer. Read
April 13, 2010
Costa Rica or Puerto Rico?
Samantha Lazzaris asked her travel agent to book a vacation in San José, Costa Rica. She didn’t notice a problem until she landed. Read
April 12, 2010
Traffic Through Cambronero Down Up To 70%, Retailers Say
While most Costa Ricans are taking advantage of the new San José - Caldera highway, another group is absorbing the economic loss of their activity on the old road to Puntarenas, with the drop in traffic between San Ramón and the port city, has led to layoffs and some closures. Read
April 10, 2010
Guns N' Roses cancel show in Costa Rica following stage collapse
Axl Rose's band's problems continue on South American jaunt Read
April 10, 2010
President-Elect Chinchilla To Talk to Neighbors on Crime and Drugs
Costa Rica elected president, Laura Chinchilla, will talk to Central American leaders about crime, drug trafficking and organized crime, during a courtesy visit to some neighboring countries beginning next Monday. Read
April 08, 2010
China, Costa Rica ink free trade agreement
BEIJING, April 8 (Xinhua) -- China and Costa Rica signed a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) here Thursday to remove trade barriers and enhance bilateral ties, the Ministry of Commerce announced in a statement on its website. Read
April 07, 2010
Sports Gambling Ring Busted In US; Thirty-Eight Suspects Arrested
The Super Bowl and the NCAA college basketball tournament are two of the biggest moneymakers for sports books. Unfortunately, for those running illegal sports books, they are also the two events that bring out the authorities. Read
April 06, 2010
New Law Prohibits Credit Card Issuers In Costa Rica From Harassing Deadbeats
The new Reglamento de Tarjetas de Crédito that went into effect last week, prohibits banks and financial institutions and any other issuer of credit card not to "acosar" (harass) by telephone their customers and families who are behind on their credit card payments. Read
April 06, 2010
Singapore and Costa Rica Signs FTA
Singapore and Costa Rica announced to have undergone a broad-based and comprehensive Free Trade Agreement on Tuesday, aimed to reduce and remove trade barriers, strengthening bilateral economic ties. Read
April 05, 2010
Costa Rica Aims To Be Among Top Of Destinations For Medical Tourism
Costa Rica is fast becoming a main destination for medical tourism, as foreigners seek out professional medical attention at a price lower than in their country of origin. The list of services sought out include elective procedures, as well as specialized surgeries. Read
April 05, 2010
Transition To Rainy Season In Costa Rica Has Begun
The next few weeks will see the transition of the "dry" season to the "rainy" season throughout the country according to the national weather service, the Instituto Meteorológico Nacional (IMN). Read
April 05, 2010
"Relationship Coffee": A Crop, not a Commodity
Blue State Coffee has one coffee tree in Providence, R.I.: it may yield a few beans in a few years, enough for one shot of espresso. In other words, in the continental United States, coffee can't be a local product. It passes through many, many hands before reaching the barista, and some knowledge of coffee's origins is lost at each point along a complicated supply chain. Read
April 03, 2010
Controversy Surrounds Building Of Convention Centre
Earlier this week the appointed ministro de Turismo, Carlos Ricardo Benavides, announced that Costa Rica will have a convention centre soon, as the Chinchilla administration's priority is to complete an ambitious plan to build a Centro Nacional de Convenciones (National Convention Centre). Read
April 02, 2010
Highways To The Pacific Beaches Totally Collapsed On Thursday
Let's load up the family jalopy and head for the beach. That was the sentiment of many who, in the early hours of Thursday morning, began their trek on the new San José - Caldera highway, taking advantage of the remainder of the Semana Santa holiday. Read
April 02, 2010
5.2 Quake Shakes Costa Rica
It was 2:50pm when an earthquake registering 5.2 on the Richter scale hit Costa Rica, which was reported felt throughout the country. Read
April 01, 2010
New Social Welfare Agency To Assist Poor Families In Costa Rica
The recently created Ministerio de Bienestar Social: Fernando Marín Rojas (Ministry of Social Welfare) by president-elect, Laura Chinchilla, plans to help 20.000 families climb out of extreme poverty during the next presidential term, to begin next May 8. Read
March 31, 2010
"Tierra Dominicana" Reduced To Rubble
Tuesday morning a back hoe reduced 11 commercial locales known as "Tierra Dominicana" in downtown San José to rubble. The tearing down of the building is part of a clean up plan of the area that has been the centre for criminal activity over the years. Read
March 30, 2010
Where Are Those Long Awaited Baby Boomers? That’s A Good Question!
For three perhaps four years US and Costa Rica real estate developers have sung the Baby Boomer anthem throwing together communities (Some tacky and some nice) because in the United States alone there are 78.2 million Baby Boomers born between the years 1946 and 1964 who will relocate and retire here. Read
March 29, 2010
Rainy Season To Be Within "Normal Parameters", Weatherman Says
Semana Santa (Holy Week) is traditionally a hot and dry time of year. And this year it will be no different. However, it is also a reminded that the rainy season is around the corner. Read
March 26, 2010
San José - Caldera Tolls To Go Down
Yes, you are reading it rights, the tolls on the autopistas San José - Caldera will be going down as of April 1, 2010. Read
March 26, 2010
Hotel Frequented By Foreigners Raided For Prostitution
A 49 year old woman was arrested suspected of managing a group of young women who provided men sexual favours for a fee, the majority of the men being foreigners, as police descended on a Barrio Amón hotel that masked as "prostibulo" (whorehouse). Read
March 26, 2010
Infrastructure Upgrades In Costa Rica Will Improve Accessibility
In recent years, Costa Rican real estate prices have risen rapidly as more and more foreigners are relocating to the country. Despite the influx of ex-pats, Costa Rica remains a beautiful country with good residency programs and a low cost of living. More importantly, there are still areas of the country which are highly affordable. Read
March 26, 2010
Costa Rica Tourism Report
After increasing from 2.06 million in 2006 to 2.52 million in 2008, the number of tourism arrivals dipped to an estimated 2.27 million in 2009. Arrival numbers are forecast to increase in 2010 and to grow at an average rate of 8% until the end of our forecast period in 2014. Read
March 26, 2010
American Airlines Launches Nonstop Service From New York to San José, Costa Rica
American Airlines announced in February that it will launch nonstop service between New York\'s John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) and San Jose, Costa Rica (SJO), on April 6. Read
March 26, 2010
"A Lie" That There Are Barrios In San José That Even Police Will Not Enter
In a show of force to dispel the lie that there are "barrios" in San José that not even the police will enter, as the Organismo de Investigación Judicial (OIJ), backed up by the Fuerza Pública, descended on one of San José's most conflicted areas, the Aguantafilo in Hatillo. Read
March 26, 2010
1.275 Kg Of Cocaine Seized In Quepos
With the help of the US Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA), Costa Rican police have seized more 1.275 kilograms (more than a tonne) of cocaine from a drug trafficking ring in Quepos. Read
March 25, 2010
Dollar Drops To ¢518. Ouch!
The exchange rate posted by the Banco Central (Central Bank) this Thursday morning is ¢518.51 colones for each US dollar for the buy and ¢528.78 for the sell, a drop of ¢12.36 and ¢12.52, respectively, from Monday's opening. Read
March 25, 2010
The Real Deal
Nine ministers and cabinet heads have been named by president-elect Laura Chinchilla. They are pretty much the same recycled group of people that have held the reigns of power whenever a member of the Liberacion Nacional party got elected president. Read
March 24, 2010
A Ticket For El Rusho To Costa Rica
Talk radio host Rush Limbaugh can move to Costa Rica now if he pleases. A website called ATicketForRush.com has raised enough money for a plane ticket for Limbaugh after he said he\'d move to the South American country if Obamacare passes. Read
March 23, 2010
Judge Defends His Decision To Let Drunk Driver Free
Drivers caught under the influence of alcohol have a new ally, the criminal court judges that defy the work of the Policía de Tránsito in taking drunk drivers off the roads. Read
March 23, 2010
What Will Oscar Arias Do After May 8th?
Oscar Arias is getting ready to step down as president on May 8, when he hands over the presidential chair to his protegé, Laura Chinchilla. But what will Arias do once he is without a job? Read
March 20, 2010
Next Central Bank President Criticized By Importers
It's been less than 24 hours since Rodrigo Bolaños was named the new head of the Banco Central de Costa Rica (BCC), the Central Bank, taking office on June 15th and already the flood of critics has begun. Read
March 20, 2010
Central Bank President Leaves Strong Legacy
Gutiérrez will be remembered for steady hand in economic crisis Read
March 19, 2010
Costa Rica Sees Increase In Tourists In The First Two Months Of The Year
The Instituto Costarricense de Turismo (ICE) says that 426.000 visitors came to Costa Rica during the first two months of the year, 37.000 more than the same period last year. Read
March 18, 2010
Minister Arias Asks Legislators To Deal Calmly With The Tránsito Reforms; Not Time To Talk Veto
The controversy surrounding the new Ley de Tránsito (Traffic Act) has taken another twist, now the government of Oscar Arias is asking the legislative assembly to take its time to in dealing with the reforms approved the week earlier and found to be with technical errors and problems with constitutionality by a legislative commission. Read
March 18, 2010
Indications Are That Economic Crisis In Costa Rica Is Almost Over
All indicators point out that the economic crisis is slowly coming to an end and the country is recuparating. Supporting that is the fact that there have been 35.995 new jobs created between August 2009 and January 2010. Read
March 18, 2010
Exchange Rate To Move To "Floating Rate", Said President-Elect Chinchilla
President-elect, Laura Chinchilla, said on Wednesday that the exchange rate will move from the current policy of bands to a floating rate system. Read
March 13, 2010
National Stadium Celebrates 1st Anniversary
Today, Friday 12 March 2010, marks the anniversary of the laying of the first stone of the construction of the new national stadium or "Nido Chino" (Chinese Nest), as it sometimes referred to, in the Sabana park. Read
March 13, 2010
Temperatures Hit Record Highs
The last couple of days had been hot in Costa Rica, hotter than normal. Read
March 13, 2010
Charting a New Course
The 33 teenagers who walked across a makeshift stage to receive their diplomas at the Experimental Bilingual School of Palmares last week weren't just any high-school graduates. Read
March 12, 2010
UAE and Costa Rica Establish Diplomatic Relations
The United Arab Emirates and the Republic of Costa Rica have established diplomatic relations on ambassador level. Both countries signed a joint communiqué on Thursday at the UN headquarters establishing the diplomatic relations. Read
March 11, 2010
"Green" Vehicles Will Be Cheaper Next Month
Beginning in April, the price of vehicles friendly to the environment will drop significantly with the elimination of the Impuesto Selectivo de Consumo (ISC) regardless of engine size. Read
March 11, 2010
Next Security Minister Says He Will Be Tough On Crime
The future ministro de Seguridad, José María Tijerino, promises more police in the streets and more resources for security and the "professionalism" of police officers once he takes office on May 8th. Read
March 11, 2010
ICE Accused Of Failing To Reinstate TDMA Customers
The Defensoría de los Habitantes (Ombudsman's office) has intervened on behalf of customers of ICE's TDMA cellular service, denouncing that the public institution is not TDMA cellular lines if a telephone is lost or service is suspended, forcing customers to switch over to 3G. Read
March 11, 2010
Kim Kardashian Slips Into A Bikini For A Romantic Beach Stroll In Costa Rica
She puts in plenty of hours to get her body looking good, so it's no surprise Kim Kardashian takes any opportunity to show it off. Read
March 10, 2010
Legislators Approve Drop In Traffic Fines, With Exceptions
The country's legislators approved to reduce the fines in the new Ley de Tránsito that went into effect on March 1, 2010. However, the reduction in fines apply only those traffic violations that do not involve highly dangerous behaviour like drinking and driving and reckless driving. Read
March 10, 2010
Job Growth Expected In Costa Rica
Manpower in Costa Rica says that Costa Rican businesses are expected to be increasing their hiring by 28% between April and June, while only 5% will be reducing staff and 66% will not be altering its staff size. Read
March 06, 2010
Costa Rican Drivers Rack Up ¢200 Million Colones In Fines In First Five Days Of New Traffic Law
The new traffic law, the Ley de Tránsito, went into effect only five days ago and in those first fivr days a total of 2.225 drivers are having to pay fines of up to ¢200 million colones collectively, for an average of ¢90.000 colones each. Read
March 06, 2010
New Costa Rica Marina Set to Open
A new marina near Quepos is set to open in April, adding oft-requested boating facilities to Costa Rica’s Pacific coastline. Read
March 05, 2010
Expo Movíl 2010 With Great Deals
Although the new Ley de Tránsito that went into effect on Monday terrifies most drivers in Costa Rica, it did not stop attendance at the Expo Movíl 2010 car show that began on Thursday. Read
March 04, 2010
Oscar And Laura To Meet With Hilary Clinton in Costa Rica Today
US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton arrived early this morning in Costa Rica to meet the president Oscar Arias and president-elect Laura Chinchilla, as well as ministers from Latin America to discuss economic and democracy issues. Read
March 04, 2010
Irazú Volcano Panics Residents With 9 Tremors Monday Night
The Irazú volcano sent a panic chill in the neighbouring communities last night, as residents report at least 9 tremors from the volcano during a 30 minute period. Read
March 01, 2010
Costa Rica Wakes Up To Two New Impacting Laws
Today, March 1, 2010, Costa Rica wakes to two impacting laws, the new Ley de Tránsito - traffic law - that will change driving habits in Costa Rica and the Ley de Migración y Extranjería - immigration law - that tightens immigration controls. Read
February 27, 2010
Tsunami Watch In Costa Rica After Chile Quake
The US government on Saturday extended a tsunami watch to Costa Rica, Panama, Colombia and Antarctica following the earthquake that hit an area in the Pacific Ocean near the coast of Chile. Read
February 27, 2010
Ley De Tránsito Will Go In Effect On Monday As Was Approved In December 2008
The new Ley de Tránsito goes into effect on Monday, as it was written and approved by legislators back in December 2008. Although the introduction of the full legislation was pushed back to September 23, 2009 and then March 1, 2010, to allow for discussion on amendments, legislators could come to full agreement what those amendments should be. Read
February 27, 2010
Referendum To Decide Same-Sex-Marriage In Costa Rica
Ten Costa Ricans have turned in more than 130,000 signatures of registered voters requesting a popular referendum on a bill introduced in the Legislative Assembly to legalize same-sex marriage. Read
February 27, 2010
From The Strange And Uh? Department, ICE Guarantees 90% 3G Cellular Coverage On The New San José - Caldera Highway
The Instituto Costarricense de Electricidad (ICE) says it guarantees 3G cellular service for at least 90% of the entire San José - Caldera highway, upgrading its coverage of the area following complaints by a number of users. Read
February 27, 2010
Costa Rica's left-right void
SAN JOSE, Costa Rica — The streets were filled with colors: bold stripes of red and yellow, green and white, red and blue, or just plain red, each representing one of the plethora of Costa Rica's political parties. Read
February 25, 2010
President-Elect Chinchilla Says Her Cabinet Will Have Her Own Personal Stamp On It
President-elect, Laura Chinchilla, says she has begun the task of selecting her cabinet members, a task she says she is taking seriously, though nothing like losing sleep over it. Read
February 24, 2010
New Immigration Law Goes Into Effect March 1
March 1 is an important date for foreigners living and working in Costa Rica, as the new Ley de Migración y Extranjería takes effect. Read
February 20, 2010
New San José - Caldera Highway Could Soon Be Converted Into "Death Road"
The new highway to Caldera may soon be called “ruta de la muerte” (death road), with the latest fatal accident on Thursday that claimed the second life in less than three weeks of the road's opening to the public. Read
February 19, 2010
Psychological Exam Mandatory For New And Renewal Licenses Come March 1
First time drivers and those renewing their drivers license after March 1, 2010, will have to provide an additional document, a psychological evaluation. That is the new requirement under the new Ley de Tránsito for obtaining or renewing a drivers license in Costa Rica. Read
February 18, 2010
Japan injects Costa Rica with ‘rising sun' power
A new Costa Rican solar power plan will see the light of day thanks to an approximately $9 million gift from Japan, officials from both countries said this week. Read
February 17, 2010
Costa Rican Pop Star Debi Nova Talks About Her New Album Luna Nueva, on Decca/Universal Records
Costa Rican pop sensation Debi Nova has been in the fast lane since arriving from Central America seven years ago. But that was not her original intention. The sultry singer/songwriter and multi-talented musician originally moved to Los Angeles, CA to attend UCLA. However when renowned producer/artist Sergio Mendes offered her the chance to tour with him, Nova knew it was time for her to change lanes and head in a different direction. Read
February 16, 2010
Costa Rica On The Hunt For More Italian Tourists
A recent study by the Cámara Nacional de Turismo (Canatur) shows that Costa Rica is losing attractiveness for Italian tourists over the last decade. Canatur said that less and less Italians are choosing Costa Rica as their vacation destination and for such it is organization a trade mission to attract more Italians. Read
February 16, 2010
Costa Rica’s new female president opposes same-sex marriage
Costa Rica’s first woman president, elected in a landslide Feb. 7, supports gay civil rights but doesn’t want gays "to touch an institution like marriage." Read
February 16, 2010
Costa Rica\'s first woman president
Costa Rica has been the model country that others aspire to be. The literacy rate stands at 96 percent, it abolished its army in 1949, it is considered the greenest country in the world, it plans to be the first carbon-neutral country by 2021, and 23 percent of the country is designated as a protected conservation site. Today it can add another unique designation, as it put aside gender barriers to elect a female president. Read
February 14, 2010
Few Cars On The San José - Caldera Highway This Weekend
It is the weekend, the sun is shining, the weather is hot and the Puntarenas Festival is in full swing. But where are the drivers on the new San José - caldera highway? Read
February 14, 2010
HSBC Runs Out Of Quick Pass
Drivers who have been thinking of getting a "Quick Pass" to breeze through the toll of the San José - Caldera highway will have to wait a month or more as the HSBC bank, the only provider of the Quick Pass has run out of units. Read
February 14, 2010
Costa Rica\'s Generational and Gender Changes
Can New President Laura Chinchilla Revitalize Costa Rica? Costa Rica has always been a progressive beacon on Central America\'s benighted street: the reliable democracy that makes a point of eschewing a military so it can spend more on schoolteachers. Read
February 13, 2010
Costa Rica Exports to Drive Recovery From Slump, Gutierrez Says
(Bloomberg) - Costa Rica, Central America’s second-biggest economy, will recover this year from its first recession in 27 years as exports, tourism and foreign investment rise, central bank President Francisco de Paula Gutierrez said. Read
February 13, 2010
Chinchilla Headed For Rio Group Summit
Costa Rica's president elect, Laura Chinchilla, will hit the road even before she takes office on May 8, to accompany president, Oscar Arias, in attending the Rio Group Summit in the Mexican resort of Cancun. Read
February 13, 2010
Costa Rica Is A "Warehouse" For Drug Cartels
Costa Rica was one known as the bridge between the Colombian and Mexican drug cartels for running drugs into the United States. But, more and more evidence is found that Costa Rica has quickly become a warehousing centre. Read
February 13, 2010
Quintavalle Could Lose His Freedom If He Doesn't Come With Bail Money By Next Week
Matteo Quintavalle, remember him, the Italian businessman got himself into a lot of hot water for his relationship with his investors and their investments? Well, he has been a free man since a judge of the Tribunal Penal del Tercer Circuito Judicial in Pavas let him out on bail. Read
February 12, 2010
Obama Congratulates Chinchilla
US president Barack Obama called Costa Rica's president elect Laura Chinchilla to congratulate her on her election last Sunday. Read
February 12, 2010
Reforms To The New Ley de Tránsito Expected Approved Before March 1 Deadline
The country's legislators are in a rush to approve the reforms to the reforms known as the new Ley de Tránsito, that applies stiff fines and sanctions to bad, reckless and drunk drivers. Although the law was passed by legislators and went into effect in December 2008, only the drunk driving provisions actually went into effect, with the balance of the law going into effect on September 23, 2009. Read
February 11, 2010
KLM Offers Daily Flights To Europe From Costa Rica
KLM Royal Dutch airlines, in partnership with COPA airlines, is offering flight from the Juan Santamaría (San José) international airport to European destination with a stop in Panama and Schiphol, Amsterdam. Read
February 11, 2010
Costa Rica's new president: Thriller for Chinchilla, Another woman president
FOR decades Costa Rica has been an oasis of stability in the troubled Central American isthmus. It is the only Latin American country to figure on a list of the world’s 22 “older democracies” compiled by Robert Dahl, an eminent political scientist. It rides high in regional rankings for health care, education, public safety and equality. For all that, its traditional social democracy has recently come under strain. The main job for Laura Chinchilla, who won a presidential election on February 7th with 47% of the vote, will be to retain her country’s unique strengths while trying to adapt it to a globalised world. Read
February 11, 2010
Former Costa Rican President Trejos dies at 93
SAN JOSE, Costa Rica -- Jose Joaquin Trejos, who as Costa Rica's president pushed through reforms that prohibited presidential re-election, has died. He was 93. Read
February 11, 2010
Costa Rica finds ton of cocaine, arrests Mexicans
SAN JOSE, Costa Rica (Reuters) - Costa Rican police seized around a ton of cocaine and arrested two suspected Mexican traffickers on Friday in the latest sign Mexican gangs are stepping up their use of the country as a storage point. Read
February 11, 2010
Catholics in Costa Rica outraged by disrespect toward Eucharist
Catholics in Costa Rica continue to express disgust following the actions of Deborah Formal, the girlfriend of presidential candidate Otto Guevara. Last Sunday, Formal broke off a piece of the Eucharist and placed it in her boyfriend's pocket. Read
February 11, 2010
Costa Rica, China Seal Trade Deal
China and Costa Rica said Wednesday they had reached the framework of a free trade agreement, sealed within months after the Central American nation snapped longstanding ties with rival Taiwan. Read
February 11, 2010
Three More Months of "Bus Free" On the New Highway
One of the best points of driving the hew San José - Caldera highway is the lack of buses on the road. This is due to the fact that the bus lines do not still have the concession routes to use the new highway. Read
February 11, 2010
Chinchilla Pledges To Help Nicaraguan Migrants
Costa Rica's President-elect Laura Chinchilla said Wednesday she will "seek to improve" ties with Nicaragua, as migration will be one of her administration's top priorities. Read
February 10, 2010
For Arias Laura's Election Is Like A Dream Come True
Costa Rican president, Oscar Arias, did not hide his great joy on the choice of Costa Ricans on Sunday electing his former vice-president, Laura Chinchilla, during her first visit to Casa Presidencial in Zapote, since leaving her post in 2008. Read
February 09, 2010
Women Take Power In Costa Rica
In addition to the first woman president in the history of Costa Rica, the Legislature will have the greatest number of female representatives in its history. Read
February 09, 2010
Chinchilla Headlines On The Internet Read
February 07, 2010
Costa Rica Votes Today. Every Vote Counts.
Every vote counts and Costa Ricans are urged to get out today and vote. Some 2.8 million Costa Rican voters are being called on today to elect their president, two vice presidents, 57 deputies and 498 members of municipal councils. Read
February 07, 2010
Candidates Pledge China-Led Recovery as Vote Nears
(Bloomberg) - Costa Ricans head to the polls for presidential elections this weekend with the leading candidate, Laura Chinchilla, pledging that a pending free-trade pact with China will power an economic rebound. Read
February 06, 2010
How To Avoid Congestion On New San José - Caldera Highway? Increase The Tolls
Costa Ricans had been waiting more than thirty years for the road from San José to Caldera to be built, a road that promised to reduce the trip to the Pacific coast in less than an hour. Read
February 06, 2010
Next President Faces Serious Challenges
Combating insecurity, corruption and poverty are the main challenges for the candidate who wins tomorrow's election, that is is up for grabs by nine contenders, three of which really have any chance of taking a majority of the votes. Read
February 06, 2010
Young Vote Could Be Deciding Factor In Sunday's Presidential Election In Costa Rica
The 2010 presidential elections in Costa Rica may be decided by young voters more than ever, as they make up 42% of the voters or 1.2 million between the ages of 18 and 24 years of age. And this group is also shows the highest rate of abstention, according to the La Republica newspaper. Read
February 06, 2010
Tourism Outlook? Depends Who You Ask
Chip Bramen says he goes to the beaches of Manuel Antonio in Quepos, on the central Pacific coast, nearly every day. He says the beaches are beautiful and calm and sunny. He also says they're vacant. Read
February 02, 2010
Costa Ricans Cold On 3G Cellular Service
For some unexplained reason, Costa Ricans are not rushing to gobble up the cellular telephone lines as has occurred in the past. In fact, only 135.738 of the 950.000 3G cellular lines have been spoken for since the introduction last December. Read
January 30, 2010
Political Campaign Must Shut Down On Thursday, Three Days Before The Elections
Come Thursday, the naked man, the least evil of the candidates and the marionettes will all disappear from the public's eye as the 2010 presidential elections campaigns come to a close. Read
January 28, 2010
San José - Caldera Road Open, Finally
Finally, after more than three decades of planning, promises, starts, stops and delays, the San José - Caldera highway, though some prefer to call it a road, is a reality and travel between the interior of Costa Rica and the Pacific coast is at least 45 minutes faster. Read
January 27, 2010
Costa Rica, Colombia Among the Times' '31 Places to Go in 2010'
Costa Rica wins praise for its new Costa Rican Bird Route, which highlights the country's great avian diversity and natural beauty, is one of the hot travel destinations in the world, according to the New York Times. Read
January 27, 2010
Frequent Quakes in Costa Rica
Frequent telluric movements in Costa Rica since last Saturday were the cause of the clash of Cocos and Nazca plates and the micro-plate Panama in the area around Punta Burica, experts reported on Tuesday. Read
January 27, 2010
Qatar, Costa Rica Sign Economic And Other Deals
Official talks between Costa Rican president, Oscar Arias and the the Emir H H Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, of Qatar, resulted in the signing of an economic agreement between the two countries, including a Tourism Cooperation Agreement. Read
January 26, 2010
Solís Says He Was Offered us$50 Million Dollars By Panamian To Finance His Campaign
Ottón Solís, the presidential candidate for the Partido Acción Cuidadan (PAC) sent a letter on Monday to the Tribunal Supremo de Elecciones (TSE), explaining that he received a strange phone call from a number originating in Panama, offering him financial help for his struggling campaign. Read
January 26, 2010
Starbucks Buying Less Costa Rica Coffee
Starbucks, the US coffee giant has reduced the amount of purchases of Costa Rican coffee this year, according to the Instituto del Café de Costa Rica (ICAFE) - the Costa Rican Coffee Institute. Read
January 25, 2010
Praxair Starts up New Plant in Costa Rica
Praxair, Inc. has started up its new air separation plant in San José. In addition to meeting increasing demand for oxygen, nitrogen and argon from industrial and medical customers in Costa Rica, the new facility positions Praxair to supply distributors in Panama as well as the Caribbean market. Read
January 24, 2010
Costa Ricans Cannot Adopt Orphaned Haitian Children
Costa Rican families who want to adopt Haitain children orphaned following last week's devastating earthquake cannot do so, says Mario Víquez, president of thePatronato Nacional de la Infancia, Costa Rica's child welfare agency. Read
January 24, 2010
Cisco Opens Entrepreneur Institute in Costa Rica
Cisco has announced the creation of the Cisco Entrepreneur Institute in Costa Rica to help small and medium business entrepreneurs improve their business skills and learn how to use information and collaboration technologies. Read
January 24, 2010
Presidential Candidates Debate On Live Television Tonight
Costa Ricans will be able to see in action, on live television tonight the three top presidential candidates, in a debate that is sure to spark controversy and increase tensions. Read
January 23, 2010
Quake Hit Costa Rica Central And South Pacific Zones
A moderate earthquake shook the ground in some 30 kilometres southeast of Golfito in Costa Rica's southern zone, (65 km) west of David, Panama. Read
January 23, 2010
Costa Rica Braces for Tight Presidential Election
(Angus Reid Global Monitor) - Costa Rica’s next presidential election might need a run-off and the second round could see a tight finish, according to a poll by Unimer published in La Nación. 40.9 per cent of respondents would vote for the ruling Liberal National Party (PLN) candidate Laura Chinchilla in next month’s ballot, down 2.1 points since November. Read
January 22, 2010
Prince of Qatar in Costa Rica
Costa Rica each year receives "important" visitors who chose Costa Rican beaches and resorts for their vacations. The latest of such visits is by the Prince of Qatar, arriving at the Daniel Oduber Quirós in Liberia, Guanacaste, shortly after 8pm. Read
January 20, 2010
Costa Rica To Approve Cellular Competitors By April
The process of opening the cellular telecommunications sector in Costa Rica has been a slow one, with setbacks and postponements, all the time giving the state telecom, the Instituto Costarricense de Electricidad (ICE), time to regroup and prepare to operate in a competitive market. Read
January 19, 2010
Quick Justice Sends Jamaican Minor To 32 Years For Killing OIJ Agent
A private trial held in the Tribunales de San José sentenced a Jamaican national to 32 years in prison for killing the Organismo de Investigación Judicial (OIJ) agent, Randall López, last November 3, in a shootout in Escazú. Read
January 16, 2010
Scotiabank Group Named No. 1 FX Provider in Canada, Costa Rica, Jamaica and Peru
Scotiabank announced today that it has been acknowledged as the leading foreign exchange provider in Canada, Costa Rica, Jamaica and Peru for 2010. Read
January 16, 2010
ICE, A Company In Change, But Sticks With Same Restrictive Policies For Cellular Services
For more than a decade Costa Ricans and foreigners living and visiting Costa Rica have had to accept the decisions of the Instituto Costarricense de Electricidad (ICE) with respect to cellular telephone service, with poor service, no coverage in many areas and the banalities of a state institution of dictates who can and who cannot subscribe to their cellular service. Read
January 13, 2010
Guevara Promises Dollarization and Lower Taxes; Chinchilla Confident To Win In First Round
Otto Guevara, the presidential candidate for the Movimiento Libertario (ML) party said he plans to "dollarize" the Costa Rican economy if elected. Read
January 12, 2010
Singapore, Costa Rica, To Sign FTA
Costa Rica and Singapore are expected to sign a free trade agreement (FTA) by the weekend, said Costa Rica's External Commerce Ministry on Monday. Read
January 12, 2010
Anne Slaughter Andrew Takes Head Of US Embassy Today.
Anne Slaughter Andrew today officially replaces Peter Cianchette as head of the United States Embassy in San José. Cianchette left his post in June 2009, leaving the San José embassy without a boss for the last six months. Read
January 12, 2010
WNS Heads Into Costa Rica Creating More Than 100 Jobs
WNS (Holdings) Limited, a leading provider of global business process outsourcing (BPO) services recently announced its entry into Latin America with the establishment of a centre in Costa Rica, providing employment for at least 100 people. Read
January 12, 2010
Teleperformance Launches Operations in Costa Rica
MARKETWIRE via COMTEX)Teleperformance, the # 1 global leader in managing the customer experience in the outsourced contact centre market, is pleased to announce its launch of operations in San José, Costa Rica. Read
January 10, 2010
Ridge Collapse Leaves Large Crater in Costa Rica Volcano