Thursday, May 30, 2019
Wind River Expands Global Presence with Costa Rica Operations
Wind River®, a leader in delivering software to critical infrastructure, announced it has expanded its global presence with operations and an established site in Costa Rica. The company’s new San José office has more than 40 employees working in customer support, engineering, finance, and tech support.
“Wind River’s decision to open an office in Costa Rica was based on its great economic climate and nascent technology sector; it’s also a place where we know our company culture can thrive,” said Jim Douglas, Wind River president and chief executive officer. “Costa Rica has proven to have a deep pool of world-class tech talent, and we’re excited to build a strong foundation there with the high-impact team we have in place.”
“We congratulate Wind River for this investment that will create new jobs. The expansion of established companies in Costa Rica reaffirms their trust in our country and our strategic position within the value chain,” said Costa Rica’s Minister of Foreign Trade, Dyalá Jiménez.
The Managing Director of the Costa Rican Investment Promotion Agency (CINDE), Jorge Sequeira, commented, “Wind River belongs to Costa Rica’s most dynamic group, the technology sector. By last March, it increased 3.4% and it represented 44% of the country’s exports in 2018, which is twice as much of the 23% global average.”
For nearly four decades, Wind River has helped the world’s leading brands power generation after generation of the safest, most secure devices in the world. The company’s software runs the computing systems of the most important critical infrastructure and is advancing the evolution from automated devices to autonomous systems across a diverse range of use cases — from collaborative robots to commercial and military drones, connected cars to the connected factory floor — as well as the intelligent communication networks that support these applications.
To learn more about career opportunities at Wind River, visit the Wind River Careers page.
About Wind River
Wind River is a global leader in delivering software for the intelligent edge. The company’s technology has been powering the safest, most secure devices in the world since 1981, and is found in more than 2 billion products. Wind River offers a comprehensive portfolio, supported by world-class global professional services and support and a broad partner ecosystem. Wind River software and expertise are accelerating digital transformation of critical infrastructure systems that demand the highest levels of safety, security, performance, and reliability. To learn more, visit Wind River at www.windriver.com.
Wednesday, May 29, 2019
Getting Reimbursed for VAT in Costa Rica for Netflix & Airbnb
Netflix and Airbnb are examples of services that will be charged a value-added tax whenever paid for using a card issued in Costa Rica but will be eligible for reimbursement of the VAT under certain circumstances.
These are known as cross-border services. As of July 1, the financial institutions in Costa Rica will have an obligation to charge the 13% tax. If the services are consumed outside of Costa Rica, the cardholder may request a refund from the Ministry of Finance.
The interested party would have to prove he was out of the country and consumed the purchased service outside the country. This requires proof of payment as well as a report from the General Directorate of Immigration.
If someone is going to live abroad he could inform the local bank so that they do not apply the tax.
The refund process is the same for any tax. For example, if one pays the exit tax but decides not to leave he can request a refund.
Textilera Amoena Closing in Costa Rica
The German company Textilera Amoena is closing its operations in Costa Rica, dismissing 300 people. The company manufactures brassieres and swimwear for those who have undergone mastectomies.
Their have been substantial changes in the market, reported by the Costa Rican Coalition of Development Initiatives. Textile exportations used to be 19% of the total export of goods (in 1997) but last year this activity accounted for just 1.1%. Costa Rican textiles lost relevance in the face of regional competition with El Salvador, Honduras, the Dominican Republic and Honduras.
The company’s main textile suppliers have been moved to Asian countries so it will make a move to be closer to them as well as its prominent European market. It assures that all procedures established by law for ending an employment relationship will be respected.
Amoena has been relocating employees in other companies over the last few months. Additionally, 180 of its employees are receiving training at the National Apprenticeship Institute in the area of medical devices.
Costa Rica Travel Warning Issued by Canadian Government
The Canadian government has issued an ‘Exercise a High-Degree of Caution’ advisory for the Central America country of Costa Rica.
This Level 2 Advisory was issued on May 13, 2019, due to the increased potential for ‘crime’ in the Republic of Costa Rica.
This Canadian travel advisory says ‘violent crime against foreigners, though not frequent, is a concern. And, incidents of sexual assault against foreigners at beach resorts and by taxi drivers in San José have been reported.’
Incidents of armed robberies, carjackings, and home invasions have occurred in beach areas and on the main highways in the Central Valley region, even in daylight.
On Costa Rica’s southeast, Caribbean coast, be particularly vigilant in Limón province towns of:
- Cahuita
- Puerto Limón
- Puerto Viejo
Previously, the U.S. Department of State issued a Level 1 Travel Advisory for Costa Rica, in September 2018. Should Americans need assistance while visiting Costa Rica, the US Embassy is located in San Jose.
And, the UK’s Foreign and Commonwealth Office issued travel advice in March 2019, saying ‘most visits to Costa Rica are trouble-free, but incidents of violent crime against tourists have increased.
There have been incidents of a robbery at gunpoint involving groups of British visitors, and 2 incidents in August 2018, led to the deaths of tourists.’
This is unfortunate news since Costa Rica receives over 1.7 million tourists per year, the majority of whom come from the United States and Canada.
From a health perspective, both Canada and the UK have issued advice for travelers regarding the Zika virus, recommending pregnant women and those considering becoming pregnant, should avoid traveling to Costa Rica.
These Zika warnings are important since the number of children born with microcephaly in Costa Rica has quadrupled since 2016.
Microcephaly is a neonatal malformation caused by the Zika virus. Children with microcephaly may have delayed speech and motor function development, visual and hearing impairments, or other problems associated with neurological abnormalities.
According to data from the Costa Rican Nutrition and Health Research Institute (INCIENSA), between 2011 and 2015, the average number of microcephaly was 30 per year.
That figure increased to 163 cases in 2017, data has not been published for 2018.
For additional Zika virus news, visit ZikaNews.
Additionally, the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) updated its advice when visiting Costa Rica, on March 29, 2019.
The CDC says to ensure you are up-to-date on several Routine Vaccines and suggests these travel vaccinations: Hepatitis A and Typhoid.
The government of Costa Rica requires proof of yellow fever vaccination only if you are arriving from a country with risk of the yellow fever virus.
The Stamaril yellow fever vaccine is available in the USA.
These travel vaccines, related medications, and pre-trip counseling appointments can be scheduled at Vax-Before-Travel.
by Don Ward Hackett, From Vax Before Travel
Tuesday, May 28, 2019
Costa Rican Model Leonora Jiménez Wins La Ruta de los Conquistadores in Mexico
Leonora Jiménez overcame many obstacles to ultimately take the win at La Ruta de los Conquistadores in Mexico.The model even managed to beat an Olympic triathlete, Fabiola Corona. The event consisted of three stages and 171 kilometers. There was dry land and a strong ascent to conquer.
The businesswomen stated that the competition was extra tough because of mechanical difficulties. In fact, she was about to give up but she took courage and overcame the issues.
From the first stage, the bicycle suffered a hit and was damaged. Because of this, she couldn’t use most of the changes and she had to stop four times. Another challenge was the altitude which made it hard to breathe. The ascent was over 2500 meters. By the second start, her bike was still not at 100 percent but she was able to recover a lot of time. Her rival had a tough day this time and was overtaken by Leonora.
In Leonora’s favor was her gift for long distances, whereas her rival is more technical. By the end, they were almost together. Leonora is very satisfied with the title and all she overcame to take first in this international event on behalf of Costa Rica.
Giro d’Italia & Costa Rican Andrey Amador
After fifteen stages and a time to rest, tomorrow begins the third and last week of the 102 edition of the Giro d’Italia.
Andrey Amador is ready to face the last week. Andrey is in 35th place, at 50:28 from Carapaz. “We are very happy,” he said. His team is in good health and ready for the cold descent. The pink jersey of leader Richard Carapaz gives him wings.
Ecuadorian Richard Carapaz (Movistar Team) is in first place, with a cumulative of 64:24:00, followed by the Slovenian Primoz Roglic (Jumbo), 47 seconds, and the Italian Vincenzo Nibali (Bahrain), at 1:47.
Still, there is a chance for another athlete to take the general lead in the coming week. The last six days may hit some with fatigue while others with added energy and willpower.
Monday, May 27, 2019
Costa Rica’s Beautiful Destination La Cruz
La Cruz, Costa Rica, has everything a tourist would want. There are gorgeous beaches, green mountains, geological treasures, great gastronomy, biodiversity and kind people. There haven’t been many tourists though.
The community seeks to change that and show off its riches and community by the creation of the La Cruz Tourist Corridor. This will attract visitor to the privileged yet inexpensive area.
The area, in the north Pacific coast of Costa Rica, in Guanacaste, boasts diverse activities such as canopy, horseback riding, kite surfing, sport fishing, kayaking, and quad tours, and personalized boating tours. There is geological, archaeological, biological and historical wealth.
Part of the La Cruz Tourist Corridor project is a group of women who open their homes to guests and give them a taste of authentic Guanacaste, from culture to cuisine.
If you want information, you can contact ecoturismo@acguanacaste.ac.cr and for lodging options according to your budget at telephone 2679-10-38 and for tours and activities at ammbahiasantaelena@gmail.com
Meteorite Equals Money From the Sky in Costa Rica
A meteorite fell from the sky as money on the night of April 23. It landed between Aguas Zarcas and La Palmera. Residents reported seeing a green flash similar to fireworks and then hearing something like a heavy truck over an unpaved road. Then something like hail happened. Pieces of the meteorite were found over an area of six kilometers long and three kilometers wide.
The event attracted meteorite hunters to the small, usually unvisited, towns. Wealthy foreigners appeared speaking languages previously unheard in the area. They came from Belgium, Russia, the United States, France and China. They had locals lining up to show off the pieces they found and make a sale. One reported that kids came too, with ordinary rocks, and he paid them $5 so they didn’t leave empty handed.
Roger Jay Piatek is a renowned doctor from the U.S. who has a hobby of meteorite collecting. He came to Costa Rica the day after the meteorite shower. He already had specimens from Namibia, Nigeria, and the Sahara desert. He now has at least a pound and a half from Costa Rica. He paid between $50 and $100 per gram, depending on the quality.
Hunters made money and collectors added to their sets. Some locals had their lives changed, having made enough money to buy land or pay bills they were struggling with. One buyer spent $25,000.
Saturday, May 25, 2019
Amway Closing Shop in Costa Rica
Amway is closing its services center in Costa Rica in 2020 in favor of fewer but larger services centers closer to Asia where its business is concentrated. This means that 200 people will be laid off.
Those affected will have the option to transfer to another Amway location. They will also be awarded all of the benefits required by law when being laid off. These include compensation, bonuses, extension of health insurance, professional transition services and emotional support.
The company started operations in Costa Rica in 2010. It offers digital platforms and data analysis tools for electronic commerce as well as training to sell through social networks.
The director of Amway’s corporate services center stressed that the closure is only of the services center and that the commercial operations in the country will continue. Amway is committed to the Costa Rican market, business owners and clients.
Priests in Costa Rica To Report Abuses Heard in Confessions?
One would think that anyone who knows about child abuse should and would report it, but laws regarding this must become stricter. Currently, it is mandatory for educators and health care workers to report but it should also be required among youth, sports, and cultural groups, religious leaders, and, in my opinion, everyone in the general public.
President Carlos Alvarado has asked to discuss a bill that would force priests to denounce cases of sexual assaults and other abuses against minors that they hear about in confessions.
The Catholic Church has described this as a “danger to religious freedom.” One could ask whether religious freedom or the safety of children is more important. Still, the church insists that a priest would be excommunicated if he were to share anything shared in confession. Under the bill in discussion, the priest would be exposed to economic sanctions for not reporting the case as well as if he were to refuse testifying in court when summoned.
Complaints of sexual abuse against minors increased by 74% from 2004 to 2017. From 2006 to 2013, the daily cases of abuse attended to in the National Children’s Hospital increased from 9% to 26%. In 2018, there were 8,229 complaints of sexual abuse against minors.
5 Digital Marketing Tips to Help Your Business Grow
Nowadays, many businesses are making the best use of the internet to promote their products. The internet offers big opportunities for gaining more customers as lots of people now do their shopping online. It isn’t easy, even though it is online, due to the increasing competition in the digital marketing field.
Ways to Market Your Business Online
You must be able to fully use all the available strategies to help your business to grow online. Most people learn by reading tips on blogs but you can’t be sure that the techniques you read online about internet marketing are correct. The only way to get digital marketing right is to take a course from a respected academy like Atton Institute. In the online course, you get a lecture from a certified tutor that is experienced in the field. Get more details at https://atton-institute.com/training-courses/digital-marketing.html.
Many large companies run a blog on their websites. They regularly update the blog with important information so people keep coming back to check. Your goal is to be an authority blog so post only quality content. If your blog has good content, you are going to attract invitations from big blogs like Forbes. They will invite you to contribute on a topic and you can then put a link to your website. If you can get published on Forbes, people will recognize you as the authoritative voice and be interested to visit your online store.
Your site must be updated according to the latest algorithm of the search engine. Your website can achieve top ranking if you implement actions that in favour of the algorithm. The search engine regularly updates its algorithm so it is important for webmasters to continuously learn about the latest search engines expectations. The changes in the algorithm are based on the changes in the users’ search habits and expectations. This makes it all the more important to apply SEO to your website based on this landscape.
Lots of people use mobile phones to access websites nowadays. Therefore, it is important to make sure your website is easy to access by mobile users. Don’t bloat your website with flash and other elements that don’t work well on the mobile phone. Instead, design the website in a way that allows users to easily get passed the sign-up process. You will see your website conversion increase after optimizing it for a mobile browser.
On your website, you must know how to use pictures to captivate the visitors. At least, if you put some pictures, the readers can turn their eyes to them and enjoy the interesting visual when they are getting bored in reading the text. Images work the same as videos. Videos are harder to produce. It is easier to include images in your blog post because you simply have to snap them with your camera. Images can also be used in your social media posts. Unless you are skilled in photography, you should hire someone to take the professional grade photographs.
Here is a quick overview of the 5 digital marketing tips that you can use to grow your business.
- Take a course to master digital marketing
- Integrate a blog to your website and post regularly
- Take care to update your website according to the latest algorithm
- Optimize your website for mobile
- Put pictures on your website to grab the visitor’s attention
Thursday, May 23, 2019
Castella Conservatory Music Classes in Costa Rica
Music students at the Castella Conservatory are receiving their classes in the dining room, warehouses, and offices, since two pavilions of classrooms and the rehearsal hall were closed in 2017 due to a landslide.
Parents complain that for two years, their kids have been in shared cramped spaces. They might have a piano lesson in the same space another student is practicing guitar, for example.
The Ministry of Public Education assigned them portable classrooms temporarily but they have yet to be delivered because of delays due to the dismissal of several members of the board. ¢76 million was deposited last June for these classrooms.
For a more permanent solution, 25 land offers for building the new conservatory are being reviewed. It is expected that the land purchase team will make a recommendation this September.
Globalvia Submits Proposal for Route 27
Globalvia has presented its first proposal regarding extending Route 27 (San José-Caldera). It states a cost of $570 million. The need for the extension was evident since 2014.
This first economic model contains revenue and cost projections and information about toll increases and maintenance costs but this information has yet to be made public. It will likely change in negotiations.
The Government must now study a possible extension in the concession contract in order to keep state contribution and tolls down. Due to the fiscal condition of the country, it makes the most sense to seek a solution such as a longer concession rather than a larger state investment or unrealistically high tolls.
By the end of the year, a contract proposal should be sent to the Comptroller General of the Republic. Once the work starts it will take about four years to complete.
Wednesday, May 22, 2019
Anti-Vaxxers Soon Will be Unable to Get Residency in Costa Rica
Starting in July, all foreigners who apply for temporary or permanent residency in Costa Rica, which are between 14,000 and 20,000 people annually, will have to apply vaccines against 17 diseases, if they haven’t already.
The ministries of Health and Migration are working on the exact requirements. This initiative goes along with the national scheme of vaccines and is a matter of respecting human rights and the General Health Law. They are also working on ensuring the doses needed are available in the country. Some of the vaccines are against measles, rubella and mumps, BCG, Hepatitis B, pneumococcus, influenza, tetanus, diphtheria, rotavirus and human papillomavirus.
Nine foreigners and one Costa Rican were recently infected with measles. They are a family of three from France who were infected in their country before travelling, six of the nine children of an American missionary couple in Cóbano, and a translator from Turrialba who worked with the missionaries. The risk index for measles in Costa Rica is 1.30. Anything 0.8 or over is considered high. The country invested $1 million in an extraordinary campaign against the virus. This protected almost 770,000 children between 15 months and 10 years.
Companies Selling Insurance Illegally in Costa Rica
Sugese published a list of 16 companies who are selling insurance in Costa Rica without authorization to market insurance in the country. This doesn’t mean they are doing anything wrong but does mean that they are not adequately supervised.
The general Superintendent of insurance warned the population to be well informed before buying services from these companies. It is risky to secure insurance with unauthorised and unsupervised companies.
The unauthorized companies are ION Broker, Insurer NASE, Atlas Underwrites, Phenicia Insurance, Segurviaje, Redbrige, Premier Health, Perfect Circle, Travel Ace International, Assist Card, Best Expat Insurance Dealst, Orange Travel Assist, Best Doctors, San Jose Funeral Home, Generali and Bupa.
You can confirm whether or not an insurer is registered by phone at 2243-5108 or on the Sugese website.
Tuesday, May 21, 2019
Bush Dog Seen in Costa Rica
For the first time in a point so far north, monitoring cameras confirmed the presence of a bush dog, a species originally from South America. The species is known as “perro vinagre” because the odor from its urine is similar to that of vinegar.
The cameras are in the Friendship International Park in Talamanca. Scientists from the National University and Point Loma Nazarene University have been monitoring the biodiversity of the park.
The cameras captured the animal on two occasions between April 2017 and May 2018 in the sector of Chinchilla. It had been spotted in 2016 closer to the border with Panama. The indigenous people of the area have not seen it but say that their ancestors did.
It is a very elusive animal, staying away from humans. Little is known about the small mammal with short legs. We know that it is carnivorous and that it attacks in herd and kills bigger animals including tapirs.
Will the New Measurement of the KG Effect Costa Rica?
As of this Monday, there is a new global definition of the kilogram. For most of us, this won’t affect our daily lives but in some fields it makes a big difference for the better.
The General Conference of Weights and Measures meets every four to six years. This time, they modified the global definition of the kilogram as well as the ampere, kelvin and mol.
The definition of the kilo had been based on a metallic cylinder called “Le Grand K.” Scientists found that the mass of this prototype had varied slightly compared to copies made in the 19th century. This posed a problem for scientists and quantum technology. The kilogram will now be derived from Planck’s constant, a fundamental constant of quantum physics.
Based on the changes, pharmacists will be able to define the micrograms of a drug more accurately and precise measurements of temperature will also be facilitated. High-tech manufactures must adapt their products to the new measurements.
Monday, May 20, 2019
13 Year Old Costa Rican Justin Luna’s Singing Touches Hearts
Justin Luna is a 13 year old boy from Hatillo 5. He got home from school one day and his mom told him she had great news. They had received a call saying he was invited to be a special guest in the 12th gala of the Teletica show “Tu cara me suena.” He was noticed and chosen thanks to his interpretation of rancheras at the Central Market of San José. He couldn’t believe it.
Minutes before going on stage he said that it still seemed like a dream. He was surrounded by great artists and said that his nerves were much stronger than usual but he knew that when he got on stage he would forget that and sing as never before. And that he did. He surprised the audience with his powerful voice and got a standing ovation.
Justin’s passion for ranchera music came about from hearing his mother sing. He sings thanks to her. He performs without any sound, just his voice. She watched his performance with tears in her eyes.
The boy hopes to study Criminology, realizing that living on music in Costa Rica is almost impossible.
He’s glad to have met on the program people he already admired such as Jorge Chicas, Fofo Madrigal and Luis Montalbert.
See him sing here –
https://www.teletica.com/Multimedia/Videos/1005174
Keylor Navas Says Good-Bye to Real Madrid Under the Costa Rican Colors
Although Real Madrid lost the game 2-0, Keylor Navas had a nice farewell to his team and his home of five years, with Costa Rican flags accompanying him. There was a flag near him at the start of the match and another in the official bar of the team, dismissing him, the most important player in Tico history.
He was the first on the field to warm-up and soak up the memories of his last game in that place. Throughout the game he reminded us that he is one of the world’s very best goalkeepers.
He controlled a shot from Marc Barta at 28 minutes and another from Giovani Lo Celso at 34 minutes. Marcelo, one of his teammates and friends, came to congratulate him at that point, extending his hand.
Keylor received a standing ovation from supporters at the end of the match. He knelt in the middle of the field, thanked God, and then waved goodbye. He spend 1,699 days with the team, always showing professional behavior. His era will always be remembered.
Sunday, May 19, 2019
Everything You Need to Know About Costa Rica Airport Taxis
Airport taxis in Costa Rica have been around since the 1950s, even before the Juan Santamaría airport was moved to Alajuela, in 1958. The same taxi drivers also made the move and continued to operate with permits.
A new tender to offer the service came about in 2011, according to need determined by the Ministry of Public Works and Transportation, which resulted in 107 specialized licence plates by order of the Transportation Administrative Tribunal for the new orange taxis.
Among the orange taxis there are sedans, minibuses and vehicles for people with disabilities. Some drivers work individually and others in groups. Many speak multiple languages which facilitates easier tourist travel.
The ratings for orange taxis are terrible, 2 out of 5 stars on Google Reviews and 1.5 out of 5 on Facebook. This is likely due to the rate. The rate is only slightly higher than that seen in red taxis but much higher than Uber’s prices, which many tourists are accustomed to in other countries.
It’s higher than city taxi prices because the service offered is different. There is much more wait time and the airport drivers cannot pick up passengers who stop them on the street. Worked into the fare is their return trip. Red taxis charge ¢645 base and ¢615 distance whereas orange taxis charge ¢955 and ¢815, respectively. Only orange taxis are legally allowed to enter the airport.
Costa Rican Explains How Volcanoes are Born
A Tico geologist, Esteban Gazel, has excelled in a unique scientific discovery and has a new way to explain how volcanoes are born. He is one of the main authors of an investigation among eight scientists who focused on the origin of the Bermuda Islands. Their research was published in the journal Nature.
Scientists have previously explained that convergence of tectonic plates can form volcanoes and that they can also be formed as the result of a mantle feather rising from the core creating hot spots in the Earth’s crust. The new perspective shows that volcanoes can come to life from the transition zone of the mantle of the planet. This region is rich in water, crystals and melted rock.
The volcano that created Bermuda erupted 30 million years ago and since the islands are sinking only coral could be collected as evidence. That is, until the Tico’s team decided to analyze a sample of 767 meters, which was recovered from the nucleus in 1972 and is under the supervision of the University of Dalhousie, Nova Scotia.
They found an incredibly surprising chemical composition that had never been seen before. It was then determined that the magmas studied have a 6% water content when usually this value doesn’t exceed 1%. They proved that the material was melted in the presence of a mineral that only exists in the transition zone. It is now believed that the transition zone could be important in the generation of volcanoes.
Saturday, May 18, 2019
The Best Italian Food in Costa Rica? Sapore Trattoria
Sapore Trattoria is found in San Jose, at the intersection of Second Avenue and 13th Street. The culinary experience had there is unlike any other. And that’s not to mention the incredible flavor of the food and that it’s perhaps the only place to get authentic cannolis.
What the place is known for, however, is its spaghetti prepared right before diners’ eyes. Imagine your carbonara being made in front of your chair, getting to smell the mix of ingredients watering your palette.
You can be transported to Italy for the moment, listening to the music and enjoying the atmosphere. It’s pleasant and relaxing. It’s a mini vacation with a glass of red in your hand.
There is an event room with a separate entrance for a celebration among family or friends. It can be reserved at no additional cost.
There’s also a store with items brought from Italy. You can find flavored olive oils, sauces, jams, coffees, beers, and truffle-based products.
Thursday, May 16, 2019
Stopping Illegal Taxi Drivers at the Costa Rica Airport
Airport authorities at Juan Santamaría are seeking to stop what is described as illegal taxi drivers “hunting” tourists. The situation has gotten aggressive even among legal taxi drivers who fear losing business to illegal ones.
We do not want that to be the first thing tourists see in the country, so authorities will warn travelers against using unauthorized services and will tighten surveillance. Transit police will help control the area. There will be signage to help tourists find legal transport.
The protocol is that airport security will ask any illegal taxi driver to leave and if they don’t the police will be notified.
The new measures will not impact access of private vehicles entering to pickup or dropoff passengers but parking rules will be strictly enforced.
As the airport is expanded, there will be an independent exit for those who will seek public transportation as well as a more comfortable waiting area for relatives waiting for passengers.
Why Are People Peeing on the National Theater in Costa Rica?
The south side of the National Theater was recently renovated and quickly thereafter vandalized once again. This side is the closest to the street and thus the least protected against various elements.
The whole building suffers deterioration because of its age and environmental factors like earthquakes and pigeon excrement but there is much more damage to the south wall because of humans.
People urinate on that wall, close to second avenue, and vandalize it frequently. It is subject to daily pollution. The cleaning of the building is needed to reduce the acidity from urine impacting the stones.
On May 2nd, someone drew graffiti on the wall in crayon. This was removed from the recently restored wall as carefully as possible with scalpel, eraser, soap and water but slight stains are still seen on the wall.
Wednesday, May 15, 2019
Costa Rica Tree Frog Travels to the UK
A tree frog from Costa Rica traveled 8,500 kilometers. He now lives in England. He was hidden in cargo of bananas and found as supermarket workers were unpacking the fruit in Nottingham.
The employees became very fond of the creature and named him Lloyd. Lloyd was checked by a veterinarian of exotic animals and confirmed to be in good condition. A specialist keeper will look after him.
An officer of the Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals said that “Lloyd must also have had quite an impact when he emerged in a supermarket in Nottinghamshire, considering that he is usually used to more tropical climates.”
There are 800 species of tree frogs, 600 of which live in Central and South America. They are found in a variety of colors and some change colors to blend in with their surroundings.
Plastic Fish in Costa Rica to Raise Awareness
Three fish-shaped structures catch the eye of passersby near the fuente de la Hispanidad in San Pedro. The steal structures are stuffed with disposable plastic. The main structure is seven meters long and weighs 500 kilos. The structures, made by Francesco Bracci, contain over 600 kilos of plastic.
Preserve Planet Association promoted this initiative to raise awareness about excessive consumption of disposable plastic and promote environmental education. It points to the urgency to reduce the use of plastic bags, bottles, packaging, containers and straws.
Contamination by our plastic waste kills over one million birds and one hundred thousand marine mammals per year. 622 million plastic bottles are consumed annually in Costa Rica. Around the world, 500,000 million plastic bags and eight million tons of plastic end up in the oceans.
For the month of May, the structures will be rotated throughout the capital. They will be on Central Avenue, at the Plaza de la Democracia, and near the Costa Rican Art Museum. They may even be brought to Puntarenas.
Tuesday, May 14, 2019
More & More Gun Owners in Costa Rica
There is one legal firearm for every 20 people in Costa Rica. Each year, more and more Ticos, in the army-less nation, feel the need for this type of protection. Some chose to own guns for sport.
For others, owning guns is part of family tradition. Those who grew up on farms often see carrying a gun the same as carrying a machete. It’s not uncommon for a father to teach his sons how to use a gun as a tool and his daughters how to protect themselves with a gun.
The La Garita Polygon is a shooting range that used to be used almost exclusively by police. It has since seen more athletes and people practicing to get a license using the facilities.
A study done by the School of Statistics of the University of Costa Rica showed that 53.6% of the population considered that insecurity in the country was high or very high. This is interesting because that percentage is higher than the self-perceived insecurity in countries like Honduras, where there is a homicide rate of 59.1 per 100,000 inhabitants. The homicide rate in Costa Rica is 11.8.
Drug of Choice in Costa Rica: Ketamine?
Ketamine is an anesthetic for veterinary use that is now being used as a drug by young people. It is alarming that from 2017 to the first quarter of 2019 seizures of that drug in the country increased 30,000%.
It is a controlled substance in Costa Rica, with Senasa periodically checking the records kept by veterinary clinics. Still, in Nicaragua one can easily buy as much of it as they want completely uncontrolled.
On April 22, the police seized 200 flasks, with 100 doses in each. Then on April 29th, an officer of the Public Force was arrested with 200 bottles of it at the Peñas Blancas border post.
Ketamine has been seen as a window of opportunity for small traffickers because of not needing a large logistics deployment and not having the same risks as cocaine. Storing, transporting, distributing or manufacturing ketamine is punished with eight to 15 years in prison.
Sunday, May 12, 2019
Changes in the Howler Monkeys in Costa Rica
Scientists are intrigued by a change seen in some howler monkeys in Costa Rica. Their fur, usually dark brown and almost black, has some yellow spots. Blond rings and spots are appearing in various areas especially on the tails. It is not thought to endanger the health of the animals although it could make them more visible to predators.
At least 23 howlers have this change. The change is seen in different parts of the country as well as on both female and male howlers. The first one spotted with this characteristic was noticed about 7 years ago in Sarapiquí. The phenomenon caught attention when more and more were seen with it.
This molecular change of yellow hair on dark haired animals could be a type of mutation that does not affect the whole population. The yellow hair is seen primarily on adult monkeys in Limón and Sarapiquí, though it has also been spotted in Santa Cruz, Nosara and Monteverde. One individual howler in Caño Negro is completely covered in fur of this unique color.
Samples of the hair were analyzed and it was found that the pigment responsible for the dark coloration incorporated sulfur groups in the chemical composition, creating the yellow pigment. Some speculate that the sulfur can be due to the presence of sulfur containing pesticides used nearby. Some causes have been ruled out, including a hereditary factor, inbreeding, and ultraviolet radiation.
Pilots Skills Prevent Loss of Life in Costa Rica Plane Crash
Two plane crash victims survived because of the skill of the pilot, who diverted the crash to a relatively safe space. The pilot was able to maneuver to a street and avoid hitting nearby houses, businesses, a school, and many power lines. The pilot followed all protocols for this type of situation and prevented the loss of life.
The two occupants were on a trip from the USA to Argentina. They left Costa Rica for their next stop, Panama. The control tower indicated that the plane had problems maintaining itself in the air. Further difficulties arose and the pilot made communication with the control tower.
The plane suffered a malfunction. It got just two kilometers from the Tobías Bolaños airport before crashing at 7:27 am, 200 meters east of the supermarket Fresh Market, in Pavas.
The pilots were helped by neighbors and firefighters. They were taken to the Hospital de Trauma, in La Uruca, and were discharged in stable condition at 4 pm after undergoing exams.
The Bilingual School in La Sabana, 50 meters from where the plane fell, suspended classes after the accident. The airport was closed for three hours, following protocol. The air traffic controllers were relieved to carry out interviews for the investigation and deal with the emotional toll of seeing something like this on the job.
Thursday, May 9, 2019
Chavistas Use Costa Rica Corporation to Buy Property from Donald Trump
It appears that Chavistas used a Costa Rican society to buy property from Donald Trump. The property is located in the Dominican Republic and was owned by a company of the US President.
The 18,000 square meter touristic land was purchased in 2015 from the Caribusiness Investments company, part of the Trump Organization, in the name of a Costa Rican company, Multiservicios Shape, which was created in 2013, in San José.
Pedro Fritz Morejon is behind the purchase. He was the Minister of Economy and Tourism of the late former president of Venezuela, Hugo Chávez. The property in the Dominican Republic became a “Disneyland” of the Chavistas.
The company Multiservicios Shape was notarized by Karine Niño. She states that she acted only in the role of notary and does not have any personal relationship with anyone who is part of the regime of Nicolás Maduro.
50-year Anniversary of Costa Rica’s Hospital Mexico
The 50-year anniversary of Hospital Mexico is being commemorated with a giant light display that alternately projects the flags of Costa Rica and Mexico. The design goes from the second to seventh floor and changes every 10 seconds. It measures 25 meters wide by 40 high.
The flags can easily be seen for some distance, and especially well from the pedestrian bridge in front of the medical center. Some drivers stopped to photograph the show from the General Cañas highway. The first night they were displayed was Wednesday and they will be displayed through October from 5:30 to 11 pm. The lights were donated and placed by CNFL.
The hospital is very thankful to Mexico, which gave so much support in 1969. At that time, Mexico offered help constructing the center via a policy it had of aid in education and health. Costa Rica did not have the ability to train the specialists so Mexico trained 120. The country sent 60 doctors the first year and another 60 the following year.
Wednesday, May 8, 2019
Project Examines Costa Rican Theater
A Latin American literary project examines the Costa Rican theater. “Analysis of the current Costa Rican dramaturgy” is to be presented in Costa Rica on Wednesday at 6:30pm in the Auditorium of the University Administration of the Campus of the National Technical University. The project was developed by the Government of Spain.
Six authors and their works were considered in the important literary project developed within the National Plan of Research and Development of Spain. It aims to get to know work done in Latin American theaters.
The project has explored different topics for 10 years. Costa Rica now joins the initiative that includes over 70 dramatists from Cuba, Argentina, Spain, Colombia, Venezuela, Uruguay, Mexico, Puerto Rico and Chile.
The works considered in Costa Rica were Piel de ángel, by Miguel Rojas; Un viejo con alas, by Melvin Méndez; La tertulia de los espantos, by Jorge Arroyo; Hombres en escabeche, by Ana Istarú; Desempleo, by Guillermo Arriaga, and Dicen las paredes, by Ailyn Morera.
Costa Rican Juan Diego Castro Sets 800m Record at OSU
Costa Rican Juan Diego Castro has the best record in the 800 meters in the Division 1 of the NCAA. The athlete competes for Oklahoma State University against athletes from over 1,281 institutions.
In his very first season as a college athlete, he managed to become one of the most outstanding competitors in the United States. He is the best first-time university student in Division 1 of the National University Sports Association. It was stated on the Costa Rica Runs Facebook page that this is the first time a Tico athlete has achieved such a distinction.
He won this triumph on April 13 with a time of 1:49:58 at the John McDonnell Invitational tournament in Arkansas, an outdoor event. He is also seventh in the indoor mode, despite never competed in that before.
Castro said, “It really makes me very happy to see my name there.” He has worked hard to get to this level and made sacrifices like leaving his country and adapting to a new lifestyle.
He is preparing to compete in the North and Central American and Caribbean Athletics Under-23 Tournament for Costa Rica, the Central American Major Championship, the Pan American Junior Athletics and the Pan American Games.
‘Game of Thrones’ Mistake Gave Starbucks over $2 Billion in Free Advertising
Starbucks gained an estimated $2.3 billion in free advertising over the last few days after a modern-day coffee cup was spotted during a “Game of Thrones” episode — and it turns out it wasn’t even a Starbucks cup.
On Sunday, eagle-eyed fans of HBO’s fantasy epic noticed something out of place during a feast scene. Photos and videos of the moment went viral on social media within hours of the show airing.
The label is muddled in shadow, but many fans speculated that it was the iconic green siren from Starbucks — and most of the jokes and discussion called out the Seattle coffee chain by name. Turns out, it was just a craft services cup.
Stacy Jones, chief executive officer of marketing company Hollywood Branded, put the estimated value of all the buzz at $2.3 billion. Jones cited PR subscriptions service Critical Mention, which has tallied 10,627 mentions of Starbucks and “Game of Thrones” online and on TV and radio around the world.
“This is a once-in-a-lifetime collision of opportunity for Starbucks,” she said. “But really, this is just the tip of the iceberg, because what isn’t being monitored or estimated is the word of mouth and social media on top of this.”
Separately, social media analytics and monitoring platform Talkwalker counted more than 193,000 mentions within 48 hours that cited both Starbucks and “Game of Thrones,” or a variation of the series’ hashtag, on Twitter, in social forums, blogs and news sites.
Starbucks declined to comment.
As of Tuesday, the coffee cup had been edited out of the episode, but chatter about Starbucks and the episode on Twitter and Reddit continued.
“It’s impossible to put a real figure on how much free advertising Starbucks gets out of the situation, but it’s in a totally different category than product placement because it was accidental, which makes it more valuable,” said Dan Hill, CEO of Hill Impact.
“I know people assign a value to these things, ‘more than $1 million in public relations,’ but I think it’s all hogwash — too hard to quantify. Plus this one will live on as a meme, so I guess you could say it’s a gift that will keep on giving,” he said.
The fact that so many people associated the cup with Starbucks is a testament to the strength of the coffee shop’s brand.
“Starbucks has become almost synonymous for coffee, so it is understandable that viewers assumed the cup on screen was one of theirs,” said Charell Star, director of content and innovation at marketing and advertising firm Essence.
Hill, however, said the viral nature of the event was less about Starbucks’ brand power and more about pointing out HBO’s mistake.
“The public response has more to do with the country’s ‘gotcha culture’ — picking people and brands apart — than it does the power of Starbucks,” he said.
The placement of the cup garnered so much attention because it was incongruous to the setting of “Game of Thrones,” said Noah Mallin, head of experience, content and sponsorship at media agency Wavemaker.
Traditionally, product placement would be more suited to a character or the show it was featured in. Had this been intentional, the cup would have been considered a standard product placement, a branded product that is in the scene but not part of the plot or storyline.
Because of the high ratings and cultural relevance of “Game of Thrones,” a product placement in this show could cost six figures, Mallin said. The May 5 episode drew 11.8 million viewers for its first airing, down about 2 percent from the prior week.
However, because HBO is not ad-supported, advertisers typically do not pay for product placement. Instead, they supply the product — a coffee cup, a car, an item of clothing or a shooting location — to the show, offsetting the cost of production rather than paying a flat fee for their product to appear.
Mallin said media or advertising companies would have a hard time ever reproducing this type of fervor organically.
“This was lightning in a bottle,” he said.
By Sarah Whitten, CNBC
Costa Rica Creates First Microcontroller for Medical Applications
The DCILab of the Electronic Engineering School at the Technological Institute of Costa Rica (TEC by its Spanish acronym), has created the first RISC, 32-bit microcontroller completely designed and developed in Costa Rica, for a microcircuit with medical applications.
A microcontroller is a microprocessor which, in addition to its processing units, has input-output interfaces and dedicated units for operation and sensing, as well as internal memory to perform specific functions.
The microcontroller’s official name is SIWA, which means “ancestral wisdom” in Cabécar, one of Costa Rica’s indigenous ethnic languages. It is based on a RISC-V, 32-bit architecture, similar to those used in smart phones (such as the ARM processor) and this nucleus can be complemented with different interfaces for different applications.
The DCILab of TEC Costa Rica began using the device for medical applications, such as a cardiac stimulator; but it has announced that it may create new versions of SIWA with applications in other fields such as industrial automation, variable monitoring, image processing, among others.
The design is based on an open RISC programming architecture and will be used as a control unit for a cardiac stimulator developed by the Catholic University of Uruguay.
Alfonso Chacón, of the Electronic Engineering School at TEC, said that: “This milestone not only proves the existence in Costa Rica of the necessary technological capacity to initiate joint developments in the microcircuits area with the country’s high-tech industry, but also lays the foundation for a national microelectronics industry.”
SIWA is an integrated electronic device in a 180-nanometer CMOS technology.
Potential in medical industry
Today’s cutting-edge implantable medical devices demand more intelligence to apply algorithms that monitor biomedical signals, and even to allow doctors to obtain patient data.
The more integrated the system is, the greater the reliability and safety of devices implanted in patients, in addition to improving the device’s parameters for size and electrical power consumption. This is very different to what is currently done in most systems on the market, since they apply separate devices interconnected among themselves.
Jorge Sequeira, Managing Director of CINDE, said that: “Costa Rica is a hub of medical technologies in Latin America, hosting global leaders in Life Sciences and Digital Technologies. This convergence enables the country to create and test new solutions, enhancing the development and performance of medical devices, which are already the country’s top export product, for US$3.3 billion in 2018. It is projected that these will grow at an annual rate of 15%, reaching US$5 billion in 2021.”
Costa Rica’s life sciences industry consists of 72 multinational companies that employ 24,600 people. 7 out of 10 world’s largest cardiovascular companies operate in Costa Rica.
SOURCE Costa Rican Investment Promotion Agency
Sykes Making Job Cuts in Costa Rica
Sykes has announced several hundred job cuts in Costa Rica. This is because of a reduction in operations with one of its 10 clients. 80% of those affected will be relocated within Sykes. Many of the employees let go will easily transfer to one of many other multinational companies because of their experience and bilinguality.
Sykes is well known for its agreement with the Government to offer a training program in English and hire many of the graduates. Currently, the company has over 5,000 employees in the country.
The causes of the reduction in operations have to do with the strategy of the client, not the quality of Sykes employees. Sykes has new contracts on the horizon and positive growth projections for other accounts.
Sykes guarantees that it will respect and apply all the procedures established by law to finalize any employment relationship with those affected who are not moved around within the company.
Monday, May 6, 2019
Costa Rica’s Wooden Bicycle Maker
A cabinetmaker and cyclist combined his passions and made a wooden bike. Alonso González Coto will use his creation to compete in a mountain biking competition known as Trans Costa Rica.
He’s been making cabinets since he was 13 and has been cycling for over a decade. The last five years he searched for an ideal prototype, considering weight and resistance, to build his wooden bicycle frame. He designed one for road cycling and used a design by Philippe Karolicky for a mountain bike.
He’s tested the type of glue to use and the chemical process to cure the wood and make it ten times more resistant. The wooden frame contains pine, guanacaste and cedar wood. It has 80 pieces and is put together with wooden pegs.
While a carbon fiber or aluminum frame weighs less than a wooden one, the wood resists more and absorbs four times more vibrations. It also lasts about 10 years while the others last just 5. The wooden frame is advantageous in streets of poor condition because it absorbs vibrations better. Additionally, it’s rigidity allows for pedaling the descents more safely.
Camping in Costa Rica: Essential Gear & Hints
Costa Rica has been a country filled with the many Rocky Mountains and appropriate tropics suitable for camping. In this article, we will be focusing on what needs to be done when a person is trekking because it is pointless to camp in a car in a place like Costa Rica – severe continental trekking and what is required when it comes to gear and food.
Here are the things that are needed in addition to the general items mentioned:
- Compass
- Topographical maps
- Tent
- A sleep system
- Mosquito net
The ‘sleep system’ is actually according to one’s preference but what we mean is the actual bed and blankets. Well, here are some of the aiding tips in the camping world the Costa Rica chapter.
1. No Cooking Gas in the Camping World
You will never find any gas or propane cylinders in Costa Rica. Even so, it is close to impossible to bring them on a plane. What is also recommended is that you do not shell out a canister for a few bucks because most of them do not work. Therefore, the only means of survival is through lighting a fire. For a detailed review on this, check out Gear Expert Guides.
2. Carry a Portable Tub as Part of Camping Gear
It has been discovered that having a portable tub is quite resourceful and beneficial. A portable container which is also referred to as the kitchen sink, can be used for having a few gallons of water in the camp hence avoiding tiring activities of squatting by a water source to get some water.
3. Have the Hennessey Hammock
The Hennessey Hammock has proven to be quite an essential tool in the camping gear list because it can withstand harsh conditions; like bugs and rain.
4. Medical Package
Just in case you are going for an expedition in Costa Rica, make sure that you have carried the injectable Antivenin because, you may come into contact with the dangerous Costa Rican vipers.
5. Don’t Carry a Satellite Phone
It is considered to be useless carrying a satellite phone because, in the rainforest, many trees have a canopy through which no signal can pass. The mountains, on the other hand, are too steep to use a satellite phone, as the canyons too deep.
6. How to Shop for Gear in Costa Rica
In Costa Rica, getting gear can be quite expensive and challenging. But in the upper districts, there is a place known as the Stone Hill Indoors located in the central valley, and they offer a good variety of equipment at a reasonable price.
Always remember after buying, that you check your camping checklist and see that you have everything.
Conclusion
As you go to Costa Rica it is essential to have the following camping gear list:
- Flashlight
- Pocket knife
- Binoculars
- Water bottle
- The Cannon shot Camera
- Documents including your passport
Before we conclude, it is advisable to know the camping world locations so that you cannot be completely unfamiliar with the place. We hope that you have learned a lot from this article.
Are you conversant with camping food ideas? Share some with our audience.
Hard for Children Over the Age o 5 in Costa Rica to Be Adopted
Children over age five are in need of adoptive families. These children are hard to place because most families want to adopt babies or younger children. If kids are in PANI shelters at age five, chances are that they will grow up in them until age 18.
27 children per year who are legally ready to be adopted stay in PANI shelters without finding a home in the country or abroad. This figure is 16.3% of the 163 new records ready for adoption that PANI receives per year.
Kids who are in the system for over a year after being declared legally ready for adoption are put in a group of “promotion” for the next 12 months. This promotes their profile through international adoption agencies. There are currently 74 minors on that list. 96% of them are over age seven.
There is a great interest in adopting in Costa Rica and there are always between 90 and 140 families waiting to adopt but they are waiting for young children. They are often also waiting for children who physically look like them, are not in a sibling group, and do not have any disability themselves or in their biological family. 52% of adults on standby to adopt are left waiting because the available kids are incompatible with what the adults want. 90% of adults who approach PANI are asking for kids under five years of age. The remaining 10% will accept up to age seven. Those interested in kids older than seven practically do not exist in Costa Rica. Those who are over seven, if they are placed, are usually placed in foreign families, mostly from the United States and Europe.
Minors not adopted work on creating a life facing the challenges of growing up institutionalized and facing early adulthood without a family. The organization Surgir works with many of these adolescents by developing a comprehensive care plan, which includes education, technical training and training in soft skills. Some of the young people have access to shelter, food, clothing and psychosocial accompaniment by Surgir. They leave with help finding a job and a first apartment.
Kids and really people of all ages have a desire for love, protection and belonging. While babies and young kids emotionally connect quickly because of need, older kids and teens connect to their adoptive families easily too, not out of need but out of that basic desire for love and family. Anyone considering adopting an older child can receive orientation directly through PANI or through organizations like Acofa, the Costa Rican Association of Adoptive Families.
Sunday, May 5, 2019
Meteorite Shower in the Costa Rica Sky
Don’t forget to look up at the sky tonight. There is going to be a meteor shower easily visible to the naked eye. It’s best to view it from a place without artificial lights. I’m thinking camping.
Binoculars and telescopes won’t be necessary to see this “rain of stars.” The meteor show originates from the comet Halley and the constellation of Aquarius, according to the instructor of the Planetarium of the University of Costa Rica.
50 meteors per hour are expected. Because the new moon was yesterday, we have increased chances of spotting the meteorites appearing to fall. To determine where the constellation is in the sky one can use the apps Sky Map and Stars Chart.
Other meteor showers are expected between July and August. One will arrive between July 12 and August 19, with a maximum peak around July 28. Another will be between July 17 and August 24, with a peak on August 13.
Saturday, May 4, 2019
The Pools of Costa Rica
There are Olympic or semi-Olympic swimming pools in only 40% of Costa Rica’s 82 national cantons. 42% of these 74 pools are located in the capital. Of the 31 swimming pools in San Jose, they are distributed in 11 of the 20 cantons.
A group of swimmers from Liberia had to train in a river to compete in the National Games. A Special Olympics athlete also trained in a river.
Some wonder if this lack of pools in many areas may influence the amount of drowning that happens at beaches. In 2018, there were 149 deaths from water accidents, according to the Red Cross. Could some of these have been prevented if there were more local pools and swimming lessons?
There is at least one pool in each province but Limón and Puntarenas are the ones with the fewest. There are just 2 in the Caribbean and 1 in Puntarenas. They are private but allow the public to take classes.
Upala is a rural area with great swimmers but they all learn and practice in rivers. They could be even greater with a pool and an instructor.
A semi-Olympic pool costs at least ¢170 million plus maintenance.
Costa Rica National Symphony’s Pays Tribute to Russian Music
The second concert of the National Symphony’s Official Season was a tribute to Russian music. The special repertoire was impressive. The sixth and final symphony of Piotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky was presented in an emotional and passionate way.
Russian musical romanticism is dramatic and creative. There is a colorful orchestration with references to urban folklore and the music of the Orthodox church as well. It is melodic and beautiful.
Participants applauded so loud after the false end that the beginning of the last movement was not heard. This last piece turned out to be the best of the entire night even though the beginning was muted.
Manuel Matarrita’s performance of Concerto No. 2 for piano was another excellent part of the performance. Matarrita has proven to be a mature, reliable interpreter. His work is admirable as is his technique.
Thursday, May 2, 2019
Meteorite Sales in Costa Rica
How much would one pay for a piece of history from the first million years of the Solar System? Fragments of the meteorite that fell in Aguas Zarcas are now being found and sold.
Scientists, however, explain that the historical and scientific value is much greater than the economic value. These objects are the only record we have of the ecochemical, isotopic and mineralogical composition of the first million years our Solar System.
The remains are being commercialized between ¢3,000 and ¢18,000 per gram. Residents of the nearby area are looking for the remains even in the rain, desperate to find a piece of 4.56 billion year old history. Some have found hundreds of grams.
Some collectors are offering up to $30 per gram, although more commonly between $5 to $10 are being offered. Roberto Vargas is a meteorite collector from the U.S. He has 60 grams from different countries. He came to Costa Rica to purchase a piece of the treasure.
Fito Páez Puts on Amazing Concert in Costa Rica
The powerful voice of Fito Páez coupled with the amazing sound of the Philharmonic Orchestra filled Parque Viva in La Guácima on Wednesday night at the Coca Cola Amphitheater.
This versatile artist has created an amazing repertoire since 1984. The Argentinian musician has a style all his own. He has been winning hearts for decades with his mastery of the stage.
He welcomed the audience, “Good evening, from Argentina with love” and then thanked the Philharmonic of Costa Rica. He interpreted pieces from various albums leaving the fans breathless.
At one point many fans ran to the platform to pay tribute. He acknowledged the honor but asked them to sit so everyone could see.
This concert proved that Ticos are forever fans and will never get bored of Fito Páez’ music.
The conductor of the orchestra said “We are very happy to fulfill the dream of having Fito Páez with the philharmonic.”
Vida Mia Ayurvedic Healing Center and Spa Debuts in Costa Rica
One of Costa Rica’s leading hotels has announced the upcoming launch of a major new spa.
The Retreat Costa Rica, set on Crystal Mountain in Atenas, is set to debut a new 7,000-square-foot Vida Mia Ayurvedic Healing Center and Spa.
The center, which will be the first Ayurvedic healing center in the country, is slated to debut June 8.
The brainchild of owner Diana Stobo, the property will include seven treatment rooms along with resting lounges and special events areas.
It was designed by local architect Luis Edwardo Ortiz, with interiors by France’s Veronique de la Cruz and Costa Rica’s Andrea Artinano.
Every guest at the center will receive customized assessments by the center’s in-house “healer,” while a medical practitioner will also be on staff along with a personal trainer.
“After traveling the world as a healing and spa junky, I have discovered the most effective and exciting tools to create the perfect healing experience,” Stobo said.
From the Caribbean Journal
Wednesday, May 1, 2019
Money Laundering Raid in Costa Rica
The Judicial Investigation Agency, along with the Prosecutor’s Office, carried out a raid in a building in Chinatown. Five people were detained for money laundering. The activity is related to the $1 million seized in August on Paseo Colon. This is a major blow to a money laundering organization.
The building is at the junction between Avenida 8 and Calle 9, 400 meters from the OIJ. $3 million was seized from the three story building as a result of the operation that lasted from 8 in the morning until 5 at night on Tuesday. The money was found in over 82 packages, boxes and bags and is linked to illegal actions including drug trafficking.
The OIJ for some time has been investigating how the money enters Costa Rica, where it is stored and how it is put into the legal financial system.
The arrested remain under the order of the Prosecutor’s Office. The money confiscated will go through the Office of the Prosecutor and then the Costa Rican Drug Institute.
Meteorite Found in Costa Rica 4.56 Billion Years Old
The UCR has confirmed that the rock that fell in San Carlos is a meteor and that it is approximately 4.56 billion years old. The initial studies indicate that it is composed of silicon, iron and magnesium.
The meteorite is named Aguas Zarcas, pending approval by the Meteoritical Society. The main fragment weighs 1,071 grams but there were also 1,152 smaller fragments that fell on a house.
The main fragment was analyzed in the home with specialized equipment from the Petrography and Geochemistry Section of the School of Geology. A press release from the University of Costa Rica detailed that it is a chondritic meteorite.
Major studies will be done on it to confirm more information. The meteorite belongs to the lady who owns the house where it fell but fragments are being studied. Fragments fell in other areas, even creating a 14 centimeter crater.
Foreigner Gets First Transgender Costa Rican ID
A Venezuelan who has been living in Costa Rica became the first trans foreigner to receive a Tica ID card confirming his self-perceived gender via a new name. He felt discriminated against for years but now has an ID that matches his identity.
Now with the name Jess Márquez, there will be no more problems in banks, medical centers or billing for professional services. When presenting as a man but using an ID that said Jessica, many questions were asked and problems caused.
He was able to change his name on his ID. New IDs do not include gender. It took a year of meetings and procedures but was worth it because now his ID and immigration identity document (DIMEX) will no longer identify him as a woman. The DIMEX does include gender and now lists him as male.
The Director of Migration referred to this as “an important step for our country in protecting the human rights of all the people who live in Costa Rica.”