Ann Young: June 2018

Taking a vacation should be an enjoyable time for you. Your vacation is a time to relax, have some fun, and just get away from it all. Going to a resort is a great way to make sure you have access to everything you need. Reputable resorts ensure their guests relax, partake in activities and enjoy themselves in a myriad of ways by offering more than just a room for sleeping. If you’re planning a resort vacation for the first time, here are some helpful tips to get you started:

Choose your desired destination first, then start looking for a suitable resort. Decide where you want to spend your vacation – the mountains, the beach, a tropical island, etc.

Once you have your destination in mind, start researching resorts in the area. Make a list of potential resorts, then visit their websites and contact the staff.

Ask lots of questions about each resort. Find out their rates, of course, but also find out what sort of onsite activities they offer. For example, the Ylang Ylang has a luxury spa ready and waiting for its guests, as well as immediate access to secluded beaches.

Find out about any packages or vacation specials available – the less you have to stretch your budget, the more money you’ll have for local events and activities.

Narrow your list to two resorts. Make your final decision based on personal preferences, such as budget, location and level of luxury.

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Vacationing Within Your Financial Means

Taking a relaxing vacation in Costa Rica may seem like an impossible dream – but the Ylang Ylang is here to help make your dreams come true! Costa Rica is one of the most popular tropical destinations in the world. Even the rich and famous eventually find their way to the pristine beaches and warm ocean waters. This doesn’t mean Costa Rica is an impossible destination for the average person. No matter what your budget, you can still enjoy an unforgettable trip here.

The secret in planning your Costa Rican vacation is to vacation within your means. Just because you can’t afford the most luxurious accommodations doesn’t mean you can’t find something comparable and affordable. For example, the Ylang Ylang Beach Resort is a luxury beach resort, but we also have a sister hotel nearby for those guests that may have more of a limited budget. We take great pride in both our beach resort and our sister hotel, so you never have to worry about the level of quality – you’ll always get our best effort, no matter where you stay.

In addition to choosing accommodations you can afford, plan affordable activities. Remember: you don’t have to spend every hour of your vacation taking part in an expensive activity. Instead, you can spend hours relaxing in the sun and sand or taking a nature hike – for free. Use your imagination and discover affordable ways to experience the beauty of Costa Rica. And, ask our friendly staff for help.

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Enjoy the Luxurious Garden Bungalow for Less

As you plan your next visit to Costa Rica, be sure to take advantage of the Ylang Ylang’s latest money-saving deal – $60 off the Garden Bungalow! Between November 1^st and November 5^th, you can stay in the Garden Bungalow and enjoy $60 off each night of your stay. The Garden Bungalow is ideal for a romantic getaway with your significant other – or you can enjoy the secluded tranquility on your own. This luxurious bungalow features a queen bed, private bath, and glass doors leading to your own private terrace. One of the benefits of staying in the Garden Bungalow is its close proximity to the lush jungle surroundings – you can literally nature-watch right from your own back door!

Since the Garden Bungalow is only 50 yards from the beach, you’re less than a minute away from enjoying the warm, tropical waters and clean, sandy beaches. After a refreshing dip in the water or a few hours soaking up the sun, you can make your way back to your private piece of paradise and observe the native wildlife in their natural habitat while relaxing on your terrace! The possibilities are endless for the solo traveler, as well as the couple seeking privacy. This $60 savings is good for two-night reservations or more, and the reservations must be made directly with the Ylang Ylang resort by November 1^st. Saving $60 PER NIGHT between November 1^st and 5^th is a fabulous discount that’s sure to go fast, so act now and reserve your private slice of heaven.

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Ylang Ylang Beach Resort Introduces New Solar Power Resources

Protecting and preserving the environment is never far from the minds of Costa Rican inhabitants. Costa Rica thrives on ecotourism – and if the environment is not preserved and protected, that ecotourism will quickly dwindle away. Here at the Ylang Ylang Beach Resort, we know how important it is to protect the environment that surrounds our luxury hotel. That’s why we are proud to announce the completion of our solar garden project.

Our solar garden project consists of a variety of solar panels installed throughout our resort grounds. These panels harness the power of the sun – solar energy that’s used to operate various electrical components of our resort. Guests can turn on the air conditioners in their rooms, plug in their electronic devices, and even enjoy a relaxing drink in the bar – all while knowing the electricity is being generated by solar energy. Through the use of solar panels, we’ve taken one more step toward diminishing our carbon footprint on the planet and preserving the natural surroundings that bring joy to so many Costa Rican inhabitants and visitors.

Here at the Ylang Ylang, we take environmental preservation seriously, and we encourage our guests to do the same. With the completion of our solar garden project, we’ve helped make it possible for guests to enjoy their Costa Rican vacations without worrying about wasting resources or energy. In other words, when you visit the Ylang Ylang, you’re helping to protect the environment that you enjoy so much! Vacationing just got better and more energy-efficient here at the Ylang Ylang.

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Tips for Taking a Beach Vacation in Costa Rica

Have you been thinking about taking a beach vacation to Costa Rica? If so, you’re in for one of the most memorable times of your life! However, as with planning any vacation, it’s always important to make sure you address every detail before setting out. Here are some tips to help you plan the perfect Costa Rican beach vacation:

costa rica hotel beachfront bungalow at ylang ylang

Take the weather into consideration when choosing the dates for your vacation. Like any other place in the world, there are ideal times for visiting Costa Rica. Talk to your travel agent or reach out to the staff here at the Ylang Ylang to learn more about Costa Rica’s primary tourist season, as well as the off-season and the weather for each.

Choose the Costa Rican destination and accommodations that keep you in close proximity to the beach. You don’t want to spend your vacation traveling back and forth to the beach every day. A stay at the Ylang Ylang puts you in walking distance of the beach for immediate gratification.

Think beyond swimming and soaking up the sun. There are various activities you can enjoy on the beach and in the warm, tropical waters of Costa Rica. Talk to the hotel staff to learn more about local beach activities.

Plan for the unexpected. You may find one or two days when going to the beach is not the best option, perhaps due to the weather or another unforeseen circumstance. Make sure you have other activities in mind to help fill in the downtime and make your Costa Rican vacation as memorable as possible.

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Enjoy Our Luxury Beach Front Room for Less

Making the decision to take a beach vacation is easy – who doesn’t enjoy a long, relaxing stay at a beachside resort? Finding the right resort for your beach vacation is just as easy – the Ylang Ylang! The Ylang Ylang Beach Resort is one of the leading resorts in beautiful Costa Rica. Nestled in the quiet seclusion of jungle greenery, right next to warm ocean waters and white, sandy beaches, the Ylang Ylang is THE place to go for an unforgettable vacation. Even better – if you plan your vacation for November 1^st through the 5^th, you can reserve a luxury beach front room and enjoy significant savings!

From now until November 1^st, you can save $40 per night on your beach-front reservation. Imagine staying in a gorgeous, luxury room with the beach and ocean right outside! Now, imagine staying in that gorgeous room knowing that you are saving $40 each night! There’s no better way to enjoy a tropical vacation in luxury accommodations.

All you have to do is reserve your room, directly with our resort, between now and the first of November. Make sure you choose at least two dates for your stay that fall within the first and fifth of November. Then, use the coupon code, BFRNOV40, when making your reservation. That’s it – you’ll save $40 for each night of your stay in one of our amazing beach front rooms. You can enjoy all the Ylang Ylang has to offer, including yoga sessions on the beach and luxury spa treatments – or you can simply relax and unwind in the beautiful surroundings of your beachfront room! Contact us today and make your money-saving reservation!

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Come to Ylang Ylang to Get Married This Season

When planning an unforgettable wedding, venue is everything! You want your wedding to take place in a location that simply captivates your guests. You want the location to create a magical, romantic atmosphere – the perfect atmosphere for exchanging nuptials. What better way to celebrate the joining of two people in marriage than with a tropical wedding! And what better place to have this unforgettable tropical wedding than at the Ylang Ylang Beach Resort in beautiful Costa Rica!

A wedding at the amazing Ylang Ylang resort is sure to be the wedding of a lifetime. The protected environment of Costa Rica helps to create the most breathtaking backdrop for your wedding. From the lush jungle greenery, to the crystal clear waters, how could there possibly be a better setting for your wedding? There are even more benefits to getting married at the Ylang Ylang, including:

Luxury accommodations for you and your guests – from bungalows with ocean views, to exquisite suites, you and your guests enjoy some of the most luxurious accommodations

On-site activities – both before and after your magical wedding, you and your guests enjoy moonlit dinners on the beach, invigorating yoga sessions, and luxury treatments at our private spa

If you’ve been struggling to find the ideal venue for your wedding, look no more – the Ylang Ylang has everything you need to ensure your special day is the most memorable of all occasions. Contact us today and find out how we can help you plan your momentous occasion!

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A Tropical Hotel that Offers Everything

With so many tropical hotels around the world, it can be a challenge to choose one for your next vacation. Each tropical hotel has something special to offer. Some may offer amazing accommodations with the highest level of luxury you can imagine. Others may offer immediate access to the beach and ocean. There may be some that are located in secluded spots, giving you and your special someone plenty of privacy for romance. There may also be some that are located in the midst of the city life, giving you a chance to experience all the local activities.

So, how do you choose only one hotel when they each offer so many benefits? The answer is easy – choose the hotel that offers everything! Here at the Ylang Ylang, you can enjoy all of those benefits – luxury, beach access, seclusion, and proximity to local activities – in one, single place. Our resort features a secluded location, nestled within the natural, protected environment of Costa Rica, with the beach only a few steps away. Yet, our resort is also mere minutes from Montezuma, providing you with easy access to all the city life and activities you want to enjoy.

The Ylang Ylang is also one of the best hotels in Costa Rica for the luxury experience. Our private bungalows and suites provide luxury and comfort that you won’t find anywhere else. In other words, the Ylang Ylang contains the best of all the worlds – and it’s available to you for your next vacation. Contact us today to learn more about the benefits of staying with us and reserve your suite!

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Comparing Different Types of Vacations

Taking a vacation is very exciting – and can be a little stressful, as well. The excitement comes from knowing that you’re getting some relaxing time away from home. The stress comes from planning the details of the vacation. The first step toward your relaxing getaway is choosing a destination. Comparing the types of vacations available may help make your decision a little bit easier.

Taking a tropical vacation is one of the most popular choices for travelers. The reason so many people enjoy tropical vacations is because of the weather and the atmosphere. You can enjoy a wide range of activities such as snorkeling, scuba diving, sport fishing, bike tours and horseback riding on the beach. Or you may feel more like soaking up the sun, swimming in warm ocean waters, and relaxing on a sandy beach in a tropical environment – it truly is a dream come true.
Mountain vacations are more popular among adventurous travelers. Mountains provide the perfect backdrop for camping, hiking, fishing, skiing, and other outdoor activities. The weather can be temperamental in the mountains, so keep that in mind if you’re seeking one particular climate.
Amusement park vacations are ideal for families. Places like Disney World are major attractions to families. These types of vacations ensure that the kids are always happy and busy – but can be quite wearing on the parents. If rest and relaxation is on your agenda, you may want to forgo the amusement park vacation.

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Take a Surprise Vacation

The holiday season is almost here! Now is the perfect time to start planning some of your holiday gifts. What better way to surprise that special someone than with the best tropical vacation ever? That’s right – giving the gift of a surprise getaway, especially during the cold months of winter, will definitely earn you some brownie points!

Here at the Ylang Ylang, we’d love to help you surprise your significant other with a relaxing trip to our tropical resort. A stay at the Ylang Ylang is sure to be like nothing you’ve ever experienced. We offer some of the most luxurious accommodations you can find, including luxury suites and private bungalows. We also have a variety of activities you and your special someone can enjoy together – activities that are perfect for romance.

Enjoy a leisurely stroll, just the two of you, through the surrounding nature preserve. You’ll see amazing wildlife in their natural habitats – almost close enough to touch! Then, you can soak up some warm rays on the white beaches as you sip a cold drink. Follow up your day in the sun with a restorative trip to our luxury spa for a couples massage. Then, finish your evening with a romantic dinner for two – right on the moonlit beach.

If you’re ready to surprise the most important person in your life with a romantic getaway, contact us today at the Ylang Ylang – we’d love to help you keep the fires of romance burning bright!

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Tuesday, June 12, 2018

2018 World Cup; Costa Rica Team Profile

Costa Rica Sports – Costa Rica will be looking to match their feat of reaching the quarter-finals in Brazil 2014. Los Ticos have a tough challenge on their hands after being drawn against Brazil and European heavyweights Switzerland & Serbia. Can the central American country provide to be another surprise package in Russia?

How did they qualify?	Costa Rica finished second in CONCACAF qualification to qualify automatically for Russia 2018.
Coach	Oscar Ramirez Former Costa Rica midfielder Oscar Ramirez has been assistant of the national team on two occasions. Ramirez replaced Paulo Wanchope in August 2016. Ramirez is no stranger to the World Cup having represented Los Ticos in their debut tournament at Italia 90.
Star Man	Bryan Ruiz Sporting Lisbon playmaker Bryan Ruiz will be Costa Rica’s man to watch in Russia. Ruiz captain’s the national side and was a key player in their run to the quarter-finals, scoring the winner in the famous 1-0 over Italy.
Preparation (2018 matches)	Scotland 1 Costa Rica 1 Tunisia 1 Costa Rica 0 Costa Rica 3 Scotland 0 England 2 Costa Rica 0
World Cup History	Costa Rica will be making their fifth World Cup appearance in Russia. Their best ever finish came at the 2014 tournament, where they progressed all the way to the quarterfinals.
Group stage schedule	6/17 Costa Rica Vs Serbia	15:00 pm	beIN HD
	6/22 Brazil Vs Costa Rica	15:00 pm	beIN HD
	6/27 Switzerland Vs Costa Rica	21:00 pm	beIN HD
Squad list	Goalkeepers Keylor Navas (Real Madrid, Spain), Patrick Pemberton (Liga Deportiva Alajuelense), Leonel Moreira (Herediano); Defenders Cristian Gamboa (Celtic), Ian Smith (Norrkoping), Ronald Matarrita (New York City), Bryan Oviedo (Sunderland), Oscar Duarte (Espanyol), Giancarlo Gonzalez (Bologna), Francisco Calvo (Minnesota United), Kendall Waston (Vancouver Whitecaps), Johnny Acosta (Aguilas Dorados). Midfielders David Guzman (Portland Timbers), Yeltsin Tejeda (Lausanne-Sport), Celso Borges (Deportivo La Coruna), Randall Azofeifa (Herediano), Rodney Wallace (New York City), Bryan Ruiz (Sporting CP), Daniel Colindres (Saprissa), Christian Bolanos (Saprissa). Forwards Johan Venegas (Saprissa), Joel Campbell (Real Betis), Marco Urena (LAFC).

From Beinsports.com

Haunted Ibiza

I have been to Madrid, Spain, but never made it out to this Mediterranean island of Ibiza. One family member, my half brother Joseph “Joe” Anthony Soyo went to this island during the Summer of 1984 and told me about all of the fun he had on this island.

I got a bit curious about this island when my wife Deanna Jaxine Stinson had me listen to this song by Mike Posner, called I Took a Pill in Ibiza, that can be heard here: www.youtube.com/watch?v=foE1mO2yM04

Doing some research on the history of Ibiza, I was also curious on the paranormal activity that happens on this island. Before Ibiza became a party place, there were many tragedies and deaths on this island. In 654 BC, Phoenician settlers built a port on this island. When Phoenicia started spiraling downward after the Assyrian invasions, it fell under a new state of control. A former Phoenician colony Carthage wrapped its tentacles around Ibiza and Carthage took advantage of the island’s production of dye, salt, fish sauce (garum), and wool. The Ibiza people were treated harshly

by the soldiers of Carthage and when production was faltering, some Ibiza servants were whipped until they bled to death. Some tourists claim they have seen apparitions with ripped shirts and blood flowing from their backs. The apparitions move slowly with their heads to the ground and then simply fade away into nothingness. Spanish tourists call these apparitions the “Dolor Obreros”, which means “Sorrow Workers.”

Around 400 BC, Ibiza became a major trading post for travelers of the Mediterranean routes. Ibiza had trading stations near the Balearic Island of Majorca, Na Guardis and Na Galera. Because these were significant trading posts, Balearic mercenaries were hired on, some of these mercenaries slung rocks as an offensive means to protect. Natalia Lopez of Bilbao, Spain claims that in 1993, while visiting this island she saw a ghostly figure of a man slinging a rock. This man picked up another rock and slung it. When he finished he walked towards her and walked right through her and kept on walking. I believe Natalia encountered The Phantom Slinger. The Phantom Slinger is most likely a residual haunting, since the Phantom Slinger walked right through her and did not seem to be aware of her presence. The Phantom Slinger does not appear to be an intelligent haunting, but more or less something that replays itself over and over again in this haunted atmosphere.

Some tourists have seen what appears to be warriors in battle and this could have resulted from the Second Punic War in which the island was under assault by the two Scipio Brothers in 217 BC. In 902 the island was conquered by the Moors. As history tells it, Ibiza along with the islands of Formentera and Menorca were invaded by the Norwegian King Sigurd I of Norway in the spring of 1110 on his crusade to Jerusalem. The island was also conquered by Aragonese King James I in 1235. So you can see this island had it’s share of skirmishes in which many people have perished. With these many deaths on the island, the residual haunting effect would be overwhelming and many historic scenes are being played out in front of visiting witnesses.

In the present time, I have heard other paranormal reports coming in from Ibiza – Balearic Islands – Spain. My brother Joe partied at the Privilege Ibiza aka the Ku Club. According to the Guinness Book of World Records this is the largest

nightclub in the world. Joe never reported any paranormal activity at this club. But on another note, there is a club in Ibiza that may be haunted. Listen to what Mateo says. Mateo Asensi of Bilbao, Spain says that he went to the Pacha nightclub and opened a bathroom stall door and saw a woman with a needle in her arm passed out on the bathroom toilet. He went out to get help and when he returned, she was no longer passed out on the toilet. Mateo says there is no way she could have gotten off that toilet on her own. Mateo also says that no one in the bathroom saw her, except for himself and no one saw a woman being moved off the toilet. To this day he believes he saw a ghost. I will call this ghost the “Overdose Lady”. Sebastian (no last name given) makes claim on a social media site that he also saw a woman passed out on a toilet at the Pacha Club with a needle in her arm. He blinked his eyes and when his eyes opened, she was gone. It appears that Sebastian also saw the Overdose Lady of the Pacha Club.

With the extremely long history of this island, it appears that many paranormal activities are occurring there. On another note, there have been many reported UFO sightings near and around this island. Terry Kimble of New York City says he actually saw an orange globe type of UFO dive into the water near Sant Antoni de Portmany. There was an afterglow in the water, the glow trail went a few miles out, where the UFO was traveling under the water. There are a few youtube videos on the Internet of UFO activity in Ibiza.

By Paul Dale Roberts, HPI’s Esoteric Detective
Halo Paranormal Investigations – HPI International.
www.facebook.com/#!/groups/HPIinternational/

Costa Rica Shipping & Relocation; What To Bring & What to Leave Behind

Costa Rica Shipping & Relocation – When considering shipping your things to Costa Rica, there is no clear cut answer. There are various opinions about how to ship and even whether to do it at all. While it’s not always worthwhile, in many cases it is. It depends on various factors. The following factors should help you weigh whether to ship to or buy in Costa Rica.

Ask yourself a few questions, starting with what it is you want to bring. With this comes the idea of replacement value. Another term that comes up here is “US standards.” Are you looking at bringing electronics, nice sheets, furniture and appliances that are a nice quality?

Get Your Free Guide to Shipping to Costa Rica

In Costa Rica, you’d pay double or triple the price for these items so the cost of shipping pales in comparison. If you are coming from a household full of items you own, send them to Costa Rica. Save yourself the time, money and hassle of replacing all that. Dealing with sticker shock is no way to start your new adventure.

The next question is “Can I live without it?” Starting a new life in a new country doesn’t erase your past. You may crave keepsakes, photos, and a special item or two for comfort. In this case, pay for an extra suitcase to take along on your flight but skip the pallets and containers. If they are larger items like sentimental furniture passed down through generations, you will want to look into shipping to Costa Rica. Don’t give away anything you might later regret. There are companies that can help you hold onto these items and transport them securely to your new home where they will be enjoyed for years to come.

Lastly, consider the amount of items you plan to ship or bring and your budget. It’s much more economical to bring things in suitcases than ship them and pay import taxes at Customs but it’s unlikely you can pack your life into a few suitcases. If what you want to bring is more than you can personally transport but not enough to warrant a shipping container, consider a pallet. This is best to ship a bunch of boxes and a piece of furniture or two. Once it’s more than a few furniture items it becomes easier (because you don’t have to crate it) and more economical to get a container. A container can cost $2,000 to $9,000 depending on how much you are shiping. This is before import taxes.

Ylang Ylang Dessert Menu

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Monday, June 11, 2018

Robusta Coffee in Costa Rica

Costa Rica News – Producers are open to sowing the Robusta variety of coffee. They will be able to plant this coffee in low areas of Costa Rica. It will be under strict control of Icafé, according to official published rules.

The variety is taller and more productive than the Arabian variety. In the world market, however, it is considered lower quality and yields a lower price. It would likely be used to meet domestic demand.

The variety was prohibited since 1988 but as of May 16th is authorized for low altitude areas. The Coffee Institute of Costa Rica will have a strict control in order to avoid a mixture of crops in zones. Additionally, it will test types of Robusta to see which adapts best to the country.

There are many in opposition to this plant, fearing it will negatively affect the international prestige of Costa Rican coffee. 60% is sold in high quality markets at high prices.

Those in favor see benefits like bringing jobs to areas with high unemployment as well as increasing locally grown coffee as to reverse the trend heading towards importing 50% of coffee for local consumption.

How Much is a Cell Phone in Costa Rica Prison?

Costa Rica News – For all those criminals out there that still need to run their businesses or talk to their family while locked up, it will cost a pretty penny.

Cell phone traffickers to prisons get up to ¢400,000 per device. Groups are even hiring people overseas to bring phones in. Once in the prison they are sold for higher sums, even double.

Each year, 3,000 cell phones are confiscated in the penitentiary system, where the use of cell phones is prohibited. Having access to cell phones can help criminals continue to lead gangs or organize crimes. In the last two years, at least 9 crimes were organized from prison.

It is not known how many organizations are involved in phone trafficking. The police chief referred to it as a “black market that moves a lot of money.” Because of the high price paid for the phones, some working for the prisons have participated in trafficking.

Until now, giving an inmate a phone could cause detrimental effects on society. But soon this may change. The Legislative Assembly approved a project to block the cellular signal in penal centers.

Costa Rica Preparing For Eventual Wave Of Nicaraguans

Costa Rica News – The Ministerio de Seguridad Pública (MSP) – Ministry of Public Security – said it is maintaining “normal surveillance” in the northern borders in the event of a possible massive entry of Nicaraguans.

The Minister the MSP, Michael Soto Rojas, who, on Friday during the graduation ceremony of 304 new Fuerza Publica (national police) officers, La Sabana, San Jose, said that for the moment what they have are unconfirmed versions of a wave of people from Nicaragua headed towards Costa Rica.

“We have press information but the presence of Nicaraguans in the border areas have not increased,” he said.

Given this, Soto said that, for the moment, there are no changes to border staff. “We have the Border Police that is prominent in the entire border, in places Tablillas de Los Chiles, Alajuela and in Peñas Blancas, Guanacaste, where there are authorized posts for the legal entry of people,” he explained.

A possible wave of Nicaraguans arriving in Costa Rica stems from the escalated anti-government protests that have gripped Nicaragua since April 18 and resulting in at least 135 deaths and more than 1,000 injured.

In recent days, blockades have intensified and now cover at least 70% of the Nicaraguan major roads, in major cities in ten different departments (provinces).

Costa Rica’s Foreign Minister, Epsy Campbell, confirmed that the number of refugee requests by Nicaraguans has multiplied but did not provide details.

Minister Soto said that an eventual wave was discussed among other State entities to prepare a government strategy. ” In Seguridad Publica, we have a plan to try to give basic attention to these people. Of course, that requires more advanced coordination with other ministries and organizations.”

Costa Rica, with a population of less than 5 million, historically receives migration from Nicaragua. Currently some 400,000 Nicaraguans, according to official data, live in the country, but calculations by non-governmental organizations raise that figure to double or more.

From QCostaRica

What’s included in the EU list of tit-for-tat tariffs?

President Donald Trump’s tit-for-tat trade war keeps heating up. The European Union announced Wednesday it will in July start imposing a sweeping round of tariffs on $3 billion worth of U.S. products in retaliation for the White House’s decision to hit European steel and aluminum products with duties.

“This is a measured and proportionate response to the unilateral and illegal decision taken by the United States to impose tariffs on European steel and aluminum exports,” EU Commissioner for Trade Cecilia Malmström said in a statement.

The commission cited WTO rules that it said allow for proportional counter-tariffs, and endorsed a list of goods it had previously submitted to the organization.

“We regret that the United States left us with no other option than to safeguard EU interests,” said Malmström.

The list includes a 25 percent tariff on imported U.S. steel and aluminum, and proposes duties on a hodgepodge of over 100 items, including bourbon, motorcycles, peanut butter, cranberries, orange juice, porcelain tableware, fishing vessels, plasma cleaner machines for removing contaminants from electron microscopy specimens, and digital flight-data recorders.

Earlier this month, Trump announced tariffs of 25 percent on steel and 10 percent on aluminum imported from trade partners Canada, Mexico, and the EU, citing national security concerns.

The perceived imbalance in trade relations where other countries impose higher duties on U.S. goods than we levy on theirs was a campaign issue for then-candidate Trump.

Last April, Trump had ordered the Commerce Department to study the impact of steel and aluminum imports on national security under rarely used sections of the Trade Expansion Act.

In February, Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross announced that the department had concluded that the imports did “threaten to impair the national security.” It cited U.S. steel employment dropping by over one-third and overproduction by China.

The department gave Trump several recommendations, including a global tariff on steel and aluminum imports for all countries. The report said the measures would increase domestic production to levels needed for “long-term viability.”

“We’ll be imposing tariffs on steel imports and tariffs on aluminum imports,” Trump told metals industry executives at the White House in March. “…you’re going to have protection for the first time in a long time.”

Statistics from the U.S. International Trade Commission show that steel imports to the U.S. have fallen 22 percent in 2017 from their recent peak in 2014.

Remy Nathan, a spokesman for the Aerospace Industries Association, a trade organization representing aerospace manufacturers, said the group was worried about how the trade war would impact the industry.

“While we understand the administration’s focus on fair trade, the imposition of tariffs presents a significant threat for retaliation from other countries towards U.S. aerospace products, and our industry relies heavily on exports for its success,” Nathan told NBC News.

“As trade negotiations continue, we encourage the administration to maximize the economic benefits of aerospace trade for American workers by identifying sustainable, multilateral measures to address aluminum and steel overcapacity in the global marketplace,” said Nathan.

Other U.S. manufacturing companies and trade organizations did not respond to an NBC News request for comment.

by Ben Popken, NBCNews.com

Vacationing Within Your Financial Means

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Ylang Ylang Beach Resort Introduces New Solar Power Resources

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Tips for Taking a Beach Vacation in Costa Rica

costa rica hotel beachfront bungalow at ylang ylang

Take the weather into consideration when choosing the dates for your vacation. Like any other place in the world, there are ideal times for visiting Costa Rica. Talk to your travel agent or reach out to the staff here at the Ylang Ylang to learn more about Costa Rica’s primary tourist season, as well as the off-season and the weather for each.

Choose the Costa Rican destination and accommodations that keep you in close proximity to the beach. You don’t want to spend your vacation traveling back and forth to the beach every day. A stay at the Ylang Ylang puts you in walking distance of the beach for immediate gratification.

Think beyond swimming and soaking up the sun. There are various activities you can enjoy on the beach and in the warm, tropical waters of Costa Rica. Talk to the hotel staff to learn more about local beach activities.

Plan for the unexpected. You may find one or two days when going to the beach is not the best option, perhaps due to the weather or another unforeseen circumstance. Make sure you have other activities in mind to help fill in the downtime and make your Costa Rican vacation as memorable as possible.

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Enjoy the Luxurious Garden Bungalow for Less

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Enjoy Our Luxury Beach Front Room for Less

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Come to Ylang Ylang to Get Married This Season

Luxury accommodations for you and your guests – from bungalows with ocean views, to exquisite suites, you and your guests enjoy some of the most luxurious accommodations

On-site activities – both before and after your magical wedding, you and your guests enjoy moonlit dinners on the beach, invigorating yoga sessions, and luxury treatments at our private spa

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A Tropical Hotel that Offers Everything

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Comparing Different Types of Vacations

Taking a tropical vacation is one of the most popular choices for travelers. The reason so many people enjoy tropical vacations is because of the weather and the atmosphere. You can enjoy a wide range of activities such as snorkeling, scuba diving, sport fishing, bike tours and horseback riding on the beach. Or you may feel more like soaking up the sun, swimming in warm ocean waters, and relaxing on a sandy beach in a tropical environment – it truly is a dream come true.
Mountain vacations are more popular among adventurous travelers. Mountains provide the perfect backdrop for camping, hiking, fishing, skiing, and other outdoor activities. The weather can be temperamental in the mountains, so keep that in mind if you’re seeking one particular climate.
Amusement park vacations are ideal for families. Places like Disney World are major attractions to families. These types of vacations ensure that the kids are always happy and busy – but can be quite wearing on the parents. If rest and relaxation is on your agenda, you may want to forgo the amusement park vacation.

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Take a Surprise Vacation

If you’re ready to surprise the most important person in your life with a romantic getaway, contact us today at the Ylang Ylang – we’d love to help you keep the fires of romance burning bright!

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Tips for Planning Your Off-Season Vacation

The seasons are clearly changing – that means it’s a great time to start planning your vacation. Taking a vacation during a time when the tourist season has died down is the perfect way to enjoy time away from home. Taking an off-season vacation allows you to enjoy some of the most beautiful destinations in the world – and at a more affordable price. Here are some tips for planning your off-season vacation.

Choose your destination with the same amount of care you’d use during the regular season. There’s a reason for the off-season – sometimes the weather doesn’t cooperate or there are fewer activities. Do some research to make sure your desired destination is suitable for your vacation.
Research your accommodations. Many hotels and resorts have special package deals during their off-seasons. Contact the hotel or resort of your choice and find out what price-saving offers they are currently running.
Use the internet to find other ways to save money. For instance, you can compare various prices of airline tickets with just a few clicks of your mouse. Travel during the off-season to a destination is often more affordable than peak tourist season travel.
Pack accordingly. Expect the unexpected, especially when it comes to the weather. You’ll enjoy your vacation during the off-season as long as you’re prepared for the environment.

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Take Her on a Memorable Beach Vacation

Taking that special someone in your life on a romantic getaway is a great way to earn some extra points. The next time you upset her, you can casually bring up your relaxing vacation to the beach – and watch her anger fade away with the memory. Before you can start reaping the benefits of vacation memories, you have to whisk her away to a surprise location. What better destination than the beautiful surroundings of Costa Rica?

Costa Rica is a paradise on earth! With its lush, protected environment, you and your significant other won’t be bombarded with the overwhelm of city life. Instead, you can relax in one of the many tropical resorts located right on the beach, such as the Ylang Ylang. Here, we’re not only located on the beach; we’re nestled within the natural environment that makes Costa Rica so appealing.

You and your plus one can soak up the sun on the beach one day, then take a refreshing nature walk the next – all without leaving the resort grounds. Imagine sipping a cold drink after an invigorating swim in the warm water! See yourself watching the native wildlife in their natural habitats from the comfort of your private patio! You can even partake of our luxury, on-site spa to refresh your mind, body, and soul. There’s no limit to the pleasures the two of you will enjoy during your stay at the Ylang Ylang. Contact us today to make your reservations and surprise her with a memorable beach vacation.

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Sunday, June 10, 2018

Costa Rica Embassy in Switzerland Goes Carbon Neutral

Costa Rica News – The embassy of Costa Rica in Switzerland is the first to be carbon neutral. It’s the first time a Costa Rican diplomatic mission enters the Carbon Neutrality Country Program of the Minae.

This shows that Costa Rica’s commitment to the environment goes beyond its borders.

Additionally, it’s the first embassy in the Swiss Confederation to reach this milestone. A press release congratulated the work that was achieved in such a record time due to excellent teamwork in the inventory survey and the calculation of emissions, mitigation and compensation. Switzerland, via the mayor of Bern and the director of international affairs of the Federal Environmental Office, praised Costa Rica’s leadership.

The process to complete the carbon neutrality verification was led by Ambassador Rubén Salas Pereira. The process had to be verified by the Technical Standards Institute of Costa Rica and registered with the Directorate of Climate Change of the Ministry of Environment and Energy. Salas Pereira, in a commemoration of World Environment Day, said “Decarbonization is the great task of our generation.”

Costa Rica to Study Microgravity

Costa Rica News – The United Nations donated to Costa Rica a tool meant for studying microgravity.

It was presented before the 120 participants of the Space Technology Workshop at the final session on Friday.

The equipment is called a clinostat.

It was invented in the nineteenth century to study effects on plants, fungi and microorganisms when the conditions of gravity are altered in some way.

The donation is part of an UNOOSA project that started in 2012 and is present in 45 academic institutions around the world. There is hope that this will spark interest in Costa Rica to study microgravity science.

The event was successful and Costa Rican minds were praised. It was the first workshop of its kind in Latin America and the Caribbean. 20 recommendations to promote human space exploration using a global approach were discussed.

The Voluntourism Trend – Doing More Harm Than Good

Voluntourism, volunteer tourism, is the new trend. It’s been around a while and I’ve gone on a number of these types of trips. Call them missions, call them part of study abroad experiences, or call it the adventure of a lifetime. These trips changed me. They opened my eyes. They made me feel a spectrum of emotions. I made connections. I saw new places. I gained cultural awareness. I became a “better person.” These trips changed me. These voluntourism mission trips changed me. But they did next to nothing for the people I was helping, saving, serving.

I’ve worked a much longer term in an orphanage and saw it from another point of view. Every week or so new volunteers came. Most with great intentions. Almost none who spoke the language of the kids. Still, hugs are the same in every language. Kids need affection. But do they need it from strangers? I started to see and research that many kids growing up in orphanages have poor attachment skills as adults. Of course, with a new stranger to hug each day, how could they grow up to understand the danger of strangers or physical attachment at once? They willingly go into dangerous situations because they know nothing else. They want love but learned that everyone leaves. What are these hugs teaching them?

Now let’s talk about the volunteers who did speak the language, being Spanish, in this case. They did not usually speak the language at a level to successfully handle the conversations they were not prepared for. A kid who lives in an orphanage sometimes, many times, but not always, has a backstory of abuse. The orphanage where I worked was fortunate to have a psychologist who briefly trained new volunteers. But she couldn’t get into every psychological aspect present with them in such a short time so it was usually a briefing like “we have many many rules you may not understand or agree with but you will follow them or have to leave for the safety of the kids.” This left volunteers unsure of how to react when a five year old asks “On what part of your body does your boyfriend kiss you and how does he move his mouth?” The volunteer expected to supervise TV time and maybe tell a kid “stop hitting” or something.

Another psychological issue is that the volunteers often don’t know ahead of time what it will be like there. The volunteers have no time to mentally prepare for being in an institution. I saw a full blown panic attack from one volunteer upon realizing she was locked inside an orphanage. I freaked out a bit when locked in a room to teach one kid. The other kids were locked out as to not interrupt but I had to bang on the door and yell for someone to let us out when we were finished. Institutionalized kids can’t leave the building whenever they want even if they are old enough to walk around outside alone. Doors can’t be left open for air because abusive parents might come in to steal their kid back. Windows have metal bars to prevent robbery, escape, intrusion. Volunteers are free to leave when they want but if they chose to leave earlier than the usual shift ends they need to find a way to communicate that in a language not their own. The volunteer realizes she’s locked in an institution and is panicking, stuck, needing air, needing to be anywhere else. Imagine. Someone finally gets it but she needs to wait for person A to get the keys and unlock the door. First, person B must come supervise the kids. Person A asks person C where she left the keys. In other words, it takes a minute. And in that minute a volunteer can go through hell.

I’ve heard of other orphanages much less fortunate. In other parts of the world and even this country there are orphanages where one elderly lady who can barely move lovingly cares for 40 children. What a saint! And what an impossible responsibility. So volunteers are accepted. Because they are accepted doesn’t mean they should be. The kids would be better off growing up with very little attention from one safe person than a world of attention from a revolving door of unfamiliar unqualified unverified people. Are there background checks? Is there supervision of what the volunteer is volunteering to do? Not at all. With 20 of the 40 kids needing seemingly urgent attention all help is accepted. This leads to abuse of all sorts. Where I worked we noticed when a man was creepy and only wanted to help change kids. No volunteers changed kids there. His insistent argument of this got him kicked out. In another orphanage things would have been different.

My argument is this: You are likely a safe person, a loving person, a person with the best intentions but supporting voluntourism is supporting a system that leads to abuse. At best, your trip will make a kid smile a few times and then leave him wondering why you too left him.

On to the next issue. What are the real needs in the orphanage? In the case I’m most familiar with, the kids needed shoes. They didn’t need but could greatly use a new DVD player because the only they had was permanently stuck in a way that they could only watch in English and not change the language to Spanish. They did not need English lessons. Many trips focus on teaching English. And sure the kid will eventually grow up, get out of the orphanage, and find a job. English may be helpful in this. Focusing on his “here and now,” though, he has no shoes. Where is he going to go, without shoes, to use this new skill of speaking English? How much English is he going to learn in the week you are there? It’s not a waste. Learning a new language or culture does wonders for the brain but it’s a very low need in comparison to shoes, food, etc. In underdeveloped countries basic supplies are limited and expensive. When an apple costs $3 and shampoo $7, how are you to feed and clean everyone in the orphanage? And volunteers come hungry. That’s a separate issue.

Moving on, volunteer trips are sooo expensive. If you have thousands of dollars, imagine how many shoes that can buy. There’s a great organization, The Shoe That Grows, (https://theshoethatgrows.org/) that makes sturdy, adjustable size shoes so a kid only needs two pairs throughout his life. How many lives can you change with the amount of money you saved for a volunteer trip? You’d be saving so many kids from so many problems, physical abnormalities from walking in shoes that don’t fit, diseases from walking in unsanitary places without shoes or with shoes with holes, etc. Compare that to the difference made by teaching colors and numbers in a language they won’t use for at least a decade. In many countries they will never again use it.

On the topic of monetary donations, I’ll tell of one more organization, the Red Cross. I’ve been on the receiving side of help in a Red Cross camp. In a crisis, they bring what they have. I was in a crisis on day one, hour one. They arrived at once with a small truck carrying the first five of many mattresses. There were hundreds of people. The Red Cross here doesn’t own a big truck or have a warehouse to organize supplies. If someone or some group were to donate funds for this cause or donate a truck, as just one example, they could have one ready, stacked with mattresses. They wouldn’t have to find the mattresses and find a way to deliver them. Kids wouldn’t be sleeping outside on a cold floor. Regarding a way to deliver things, a bit later came supplies. The Red Cross had thankfully received donations of toothbrushes, shampoo, etc. but no one donated bags. What’s the big deal about bags? You’ll soon see. In a crisis camp people eventually realize “We’re guna be here a while let’s find a way to get along” but the first thought is “ME. MY FAMILY.” Fights, violent fights, break out over a toothbrush. The first person in the line got 15 toothbrushes. Hmm. What will he do with them? He didn’t give them out to the people closest and keep one. He fought everyone off and kept them all and traded them later. But this trade becomes unfair and anything unfair leads to violence. Items obviously have differing values. And how does someone with three giant bottles of shampoo trade for one toothbrush, one roll of toilet paper, etc.? What was needed to avoid violence and chaos in that crisis was a bunch of bags to divide supplies fairly. No one thinks to donate bags. That’s so random to us but to the experts it’s basic. They need money for bags. We should trust them and help them their way. This is what happens when good people invent how to help. Help is best received in the way the organization sees fit, whether monetary or preorganized supplies, for example. For ongoing crisis’ the Red Cross specifies what can be donated. There are several options of bags packed with exactly what’s needed. You have to donate in a specific way so that they can hand out bags and each family gets the same items: a broom, 3 toothbrushes, a bottle of shampoo, rice, etc. “I donated money for 2,000 plastic bags” doesn’t get as much buzz on Facebook as does “I lived in an orphanage for a week” but it represents a much greater need. Those who are not in a crisis camp and do have a few bucks to spare can greatly and easily change the emergency response in any country with Red Cross.

Still, you worked hard. Not all your money can or should be donated. You should enjoy a beautiful vacation to Costa Rica. But vacation. Don’t volunteer. Stay out of the places meant to protect kids. Don’t do anything good there. Vacation. Talk to locals. Find out which local people and places are making a difference. Even a $5 donation to an orphanage can do more then your presence for a week. That’s not meant to be rude. It’s just true. We received person after person, bags of clothes for ages of kids we didn’t have at the moment. A small (or huge!) donation would have allowed us to buy something truly needed. Locals will direct you. What problems do you see? What do locals see? Vacation. And have a 10 minute conversation with a local who will teach you how to make a difference. Don’t give monetary donations to street kids, who will buy drugs, rather the organizations helping them, for example. There’s a place that gives them everything they need just two blocks from here, you find out from a random person on the street. Donate a few dollars to the lady who has no website to accept donations from abroad. Donate money to this lady who just has a quiet house on the corner that street kids know they can go to for a warm meal (even if it’s just rice with rice) or a hug from someone who will stay.

Let Costa Rica be the Destination for Your Romantic Honeymoon

Finding the love of your life and making the decision to get married is one of the most exciting times of your life! Planning the wedding can be overwhelming – but the final result is worth it. As you map out the finer details of your wedding, don’t forget about the honeymoon. With all the wedding craziness going on, it’s easy to haphazardly plan your honeymoon. However, putting time into planning the perfect romantic honeymoon will ensure that you and your new spouse start off your marriage in the best way possible!

Instead of choosing a typical destination for a honeymoon, think bigger, think grander – think Costa Rica. Imagine starting on your wedded journey together in the romantic, serene setting that is Costa Rica. Here at the Ylang Ylang Beach Resort, we can help you start on this amazing journey together. We offer several honeymoon packages to make your honeymoon simply unforgettable. Each one of our packages is designed with romance in mind. From couples’ massages, to moonlit dinners on the beach, every detail is taken care of – leaving you free to focus on your new spouse and some much needed alone time.

After the countless hours planning the perfect wedding, you and your new spouse will finally have the chance to relax and just revel in the joy of being married. There’s no better place to do your reveling than the romantic, tropical beaches and jungles of Costa Rica. Contact us today to learn more about our honeymoon packages and let us help you plan the perfect honeymoon to match your perfect wedding.

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Tips for Planning a Resort Vacation

Choose your desired destination first, then start looking for a suitable resort. Decide where you want to spend your vacation – the mountains, the beach, a tropical island, etc.

Once you have your destination in mind, start researching resorts in the area. Make a list of potential resorts, then visit their websites and contact the staff.

Ask lots of questions about each resort. Find out their rates, of course, but also find out what sort of onsite activities they offer. For example, the Ylang Ylang has a luxury spa ready and waiting for its guests, as well as immediate access to secluded beaches.

Find out about any packages or vacation specials available – the less you have to stretch your budget, the more money you’ll have for local events and activities.

Narrow your list to two resorts. Make your final decision based on personal preferences, such as budget, location and level of luxury.

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Take the weather into consideration when choosing the dates for your vacation. Like any other place in the world, there are ideal times for visiting Costa Rica. Talk to your travel agent or reach out to the staff here at the Ylang Ylang to learn more about Costa Rica’s primary tourist season, as well as the off-season and the weather for each.

Choose the Costa Rican destination and accommodations that keep you in close proximity to the beach. You don’t want to spend your vacation traveling back and forth to the beach every day. A stay at the Ylang Ylang puts you in walking distance of the beach for immediate gratification.

Think beyond swimming and soaking up the sun. There are various activities you can enjoy on the beach and in the warm, tropical waters of Costa Rica. Talk to the hotel staff to learn more about local beach activities.

Plan for the unexpected. You may find one or two days when going to the beach is not the best option, perhaps due to the weather or another unforeseen circumstance. Make sure you have other activities in mind to help fill in the downtime and make your Costa Rican vacation as memorable as possible.

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Come to Ylang Ylang to Get Married This Season

Luxury accommodations for you and your guests – from bungalows with ocean views, to exquisite suites, you and your guests enjoy some of the most luxurious accommodations

On-site activities – both before and after your magical wedding, you and your guests enjoy moonlit dinners on the beach, invigorating yoga sessions, and luxury treatments at our private spa

The blog post Come to Ylang Ylang to Get Married This Season is courtesy of

Come to Ylang Ylang to Get Married This Season published first on https://ylangylangresort.com/

Comparing Different Types of Vacations

Taking a tropical vacation is one of the most popular choices for travelers. The reason so many people enjoy tropical vacations is because of the weather and the atmosphere. You can enjoy a wide range of activities such as snorkeling, scuba diving, sport fishing, bike tours and horseback riding on the beach. Or you may feel more like soaking up the sun, swimming in warm ocean waters, and relaxing on a sandy beach in a tropical environment – it truly is a dream come true.
Mountain vacations are more popular among adventurous travelers. Mountains provide the perfect backdrop for camping, hiking, fishing, skiing, and other outdoor activities. The weather can be temperamental in the mountains, so keep that in mind if you’re seeking one particular climate.
Amusement park vacations are ideal for families. Places like Disney World are major attractions to families. These types of vacations ensure that the kids are always happy and busy – but can be quite wearing on the parents. If rest and relaxation is on your agenda, you may want to forgo the amusement park vacation.

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