Budget Hotels San Jose Costa Rica

HOTELES ECONOMICOS EN SAN JOSE COSTA RICA - PARA SUS GRUPOS

2008-02-16T10:39:00.000-08:00

RECIBAN UN CORDIAL SALUDO, ADJUNTO LA INFORMACIÓN DE NUESTROS TRES HOTELES EN SAN JOSÉ COSTA RICA, EN LOS CUALES NOS GUSTARÍA ALOJAR A SUS GRUPOS:

HOTEL CAPITAL. - www.hotelcapital.org - USD 26 POR NOCHE HAB. DOBLE

CON TV CABLE, VENTILADOR, BAÑO PRIVADA, AGUA CALIENTE, CAMA DOBLE COLCHONES ORTOPÉDICOS. Disfrute de un hotel, bueno, económico limpio y confortable, en el centro de la acción y entretenimiento de nuestra capital, cerca de todas las estaciones de bus para viajar dentro y fuera de nuestro país, estamos ubicados además en el centro histórico de la ciudad, cerca de los bancos, casinos, museos, nightclubs, sportbooks, mercados centrales, almacenes y comercio en general.

Dirección: Calle 4 Entre Ave. 3 y 5, 25 metros al norte del Banco Nacional. San José, Centro, Costa Rica, - Ver mapa para localizarnos - English

Tenemos 15 habitaciones equipadas con Televisor, TV Cable, baño privado, agua caliente, ventilador en el techo, colchón ortopédico cama doble (matrimonial) además de habitaciones triples y cuádruples.

Tenemos una colección de fotos históricas de Costa Rica. Somos respetuosos del medio ambiente -Ver nuestras practicas ambientales -. Ver nuestra Galeria de Fotos -

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HOSTEL SOL Y LUNA - www.hostelsolyluna.com - USD 10 por persona -

Internet Gratis 24 horas/día, Gratis Café & Tea, Duchas agua caliente, limpias, Cocina equipada , Servicios de lavandería, TV Cable, Almacenaje de equipaje, Juegos de mesa, Centro de información turística gratis , 24 horas abierto , parqueo seguro para dos carros. Ofrecemos habitaciones privadas dobles y triples con baño privado y TV/cable, mas privadas dobles y twin (dos camas) y dormitorios compartidos para hombres y mujeres por separado.

Estamos muy cerca (1 a 3 cuadras) de las estaciones de bus para viajar dentro y fuera del país: Guanacaste, Ciudades: Santa Cruz y Liberia. Grecia, Sarchi, Jaco, Playas: Brasilito, Flamingo, Coco, Panamá, Tamarindo, Nicoya, Nosara, Samara-, Volcán Arenal, Estación de buses Coca Cola, Zona sur (Manuel Antonio y Quepos, Parrita, Domical, Uvita, Golfito, Palmar Norte, San Vito, Paso Canoas), Puntarenas, Cobano, Montezuma, Grecia. Nicaragua, Panamá, El salvador.

Aeropuerto Internacional: El bus para justo al frente del Hostel.

Contacto: Tel.: (506)221-4337 - Fax:(506) 221-8583
Email Us: hostel @ hostelsolyluna.com

www.hostelsolyluna.com

Dirección: Calle, Ave. 1-3, San José Costa Rica. De torre medica en paseo colon 150 metros norte. lado este de la escuela Juan Rafael Mora.

La Pampa Hostel - www.costaricahostel.info - USD 10 por persona:

Bienvenido a la mejor opción de un Hostel para BACKPACKERS limpio, confortable, económico en el Centro de San José, cerca de las estaciones de buses para viajar dentro y fuera del país (Panamá, Nicaragua), ubicado en el centro histórico de San José, cerca de los bancos, hospitales, casinos, sportbooks, teatros, cinemas, museos. Tenemos 11 habitaciones ideales para grupos, backpackers (mochileros) y familias. Hay habitaciones para una, dos, tres, cuatro personas, algunas con baño privado. Agua caliente disponible en todas las duchas. Ver nuestra Galeria de Fotos -

Ofrecemos almacenaje de equipaje sin costo alguno, habitaciones privadas y compartidas, somos ambientalmente amigables, damos información turística gratis, podemos arreglar lo necesario para sus tours y viajes en el país, ofrecemos alquiler de vehículos también. Contamos con un área común con televisión y cocina para los huéspedes. Donde podrás reunirte con otras personas, divertirte y conocer gente de todas partes del mundo.

Estamos localizados enseguida de la estación de buses Tralapa que viaja a Guanacaste, Liberia, Santa Cruz, Flamingo, Tamarindo, Filadelfia, playa Panamá.

Dirección: Ave. 5ta. Entre calles 20 y 22, contiguo a la estación de buses Tralapa. San José, Costa Rica. Ver mapa para localizarnos -

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GRACIAS, QUE DIOS LOS BENDIGA,

Bernardo Escobar A.
Budget Hotels & Tours - Costa Rica
Calle 4, avenidas 3 y 5, 25 metros norte del banco nacional, san jose centro
tel. 506-2218497
fax. 506-2218583
EMAIL: costarica@hotelcapital.org
www.hotelcapital.org
www.costaricahostel.info
www.hostelsolyluna.com
www.costaricacheaphotels.net
www.ricacostarica.info
SAN JOSE COSTA RICA

OFERTA - DISEÑO Y MERCADEO DE PAGINAS WEB - INTERNET - WWW.CREDIPAGINAS.COM

2008-02-16T10:36:00.000-08:00

OFERTA DISEÑO Y MERCADEO DE PAGINAS WEB INTERNET - WWW.CREDIPAGINAS.COM

Con muchísimo gusto podemos ayudarle a diseñar y mercadear sus paginas Web, no es coincidencia que nos encuentre en Internet cuando hace una búsqueda por "mercadeo Web Costa Rica" en www.google.com y la primera página que obtiene es www.credipaginas.com, somos los mejores en mercadeo Web según google.com - en Costa Rica.

MERCADEO Y OPTIMIZACION DE SU PAGINA WEB DURANTE UN AÑO - $ 300 (dólares)

DISEÑO DE PAGINA WEB Y MERCADEO: $ 400, incluyendo:
* DISEÑO PAGINA WEB, hasta con 10 Subpaginas (por ejemplo: inicio, contacto, productos, servicios, etc...)
* DOMINIO ANUAL (por ejemplo: www.nombrepagina.com o .net, info, etc.)
* HOSTING ANUAL y estadísticas detalladas de visitas
- de que parte del mundo y cuantas veces lo visitan al día.

* UNA CUENTA DE CORREO ELECTRÓNICO.
* MERCADEO 1er año (garantizando aparecer en las búsquedas en www.google.com )
* ADICIONAL POR TENER HASTA 5 CUENTAS DE CORREO ELECTRÓNICO Y MANEJAR FORMULARIOS EN LÍNEA EN LA PAGINA WEB - $ 100 ANUAL.

* Renovación anual, después del primer año: $ 180

FORMA DE PAGO: PAGO ÚNICO DE $ 400 PAGADEROS EN CUATRO PAGOS DE $ 100 MENSUALES EN LOS PRIMEROS CUATRO MESES. (o $ 500 SI ESCOGE EL SERVICIO ADICIONAL).

Enviar correo dirigido a: BERNARDO ESCOBAR ARANGO al correo: bernardo@credipaginas.com / WWW.CREDIPAGINAS.CO
SAN JOSÉ COSTA RICA
TEL. 506-398-5032

costa rica hotels and real state - monteverde costa rica - adventure tours - moteverde, san jose, and others

2007-11-26T13:01:00.000-08:00

If you visit Monteverde check this hotels:

-Monteverde Hotel Sol y Luna http://www.monteverdehotel.net

-Monteverde Paraiso Backpackers http://www.monteverdeparaiso.net

-Monteverde Lodge Amanecer http://www.monteverdelodgeamanecer.com

-Real Estate http://www.1costaricarealestate.info

IN SAN JSOE COSTA RICA:

www.costaricahostel.info // www.hostelsolyluna.com // www.hotelcapital.org

IF YOU WANT TOURS: - www.ricacostarica.info

Bienvenidos al Hotel La Pampa en San José Costa Rica. --

2007-11-05T13:29:00.001-08:00

la pampa hotel san jose costa rica budget cheap accommodation barato economico tours aventura

www.costaricahostel.info

contacto@costaricahostel.info

Bienvenidos al Hotel La Pampa en San José Costa Rica. --
La mejor opción de un Hostel para BACKPACKERS limpio, confortable, económico en el Centro de San José, cerca de las estaciones de buses para viajar dentro y fuera del país (Centroamerica), ubicado en el centro histórico de San José, cerca de los bancos, hospitales, casinos, sportbooks, teatros, cinemas, museos.

Tenemos 11 habitaciones ideales para grupos, backpackers (mochileros) y familias. Hay habitaciones para una, dos, tres, cuatro personas, algunas con baño privado. Agua caliente disponible en todas las duchas. Ver nuestra Galeríade Fotos -

Todas nuestras habitaciones son privadas. Ofrecemos almacenaje de equipaje sin costo alguno, damos información turística gratis, vendemos Tours en el país y también Hoteles en todo el país, ofrecemos alquiler de vehículos. Contamos con un área común con televisión y cocina para los huéspedes, donde podrás reunirte con otras personas, divertirte y conocer gente de todas partes del mundo.

Estamos localizados enseguida de la estaciónde buses Tralapa que viaja a Guanacaste, Liberia, Santa Cruz, Flamingo, Tamarindo, Filadelfia, playa Panamá.

NOTA: Nosotros no aceptamos pagos con tarjetas de crédito ni débito.

Tel. 506-256-7715 // Fax. 506-221-8583 // Contactenos por E-Mail

www.costaricahostel.info

Dirección: Ave. 5ta. Entre calles 20 y 22, contiguo a la estación de buses Tralapa. San José, Costa Rica. Ver mapa para localizarnos -

contacto @ costaricahostel.info

ADVENTURE TOURS IN COSTA RICA - WWW.RICACOSTARICA.INFO

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Inicio - InformaciónTurísticade San José - Tours - Tarifas - Localización - Contacto - Links -

Visite nuestros Otros Hoteles en San José Hotel Capital y Hostel Sol y Luna

Bernardo Escobar A.
Hotel Capital
Calle 4, entre Ave. 3 y 5
Tel. 506-221-8497
Fax. 506-221-8583
www.hotelcapital.org
costarica@hotelcapital.org
www.ricacostarica.info - Adventure Tours in Costa Rica
info@ricacostarica.info
www.costaricahostel.info
contacto@costaricahostel.info
San Jose - Costa Rica

LA PAMPA HOSTEL - BUDGET CHEAP ACCOMMODATION IN COSTA RICA

2007-11-05T13:00:00.000-08:00

Bienvenidos al Hotel La Pampa en San José Costa Rica. --
La mejor opción de un Hostel para BACKPACKERS limpio, confortable, económico en el Centro de San José, cerca de las estaciones de buses para viajar dentro y fuera del país (Centroamerica), ubicado en el centro histórico de San José, cerca de los bancos, hospitales, casinos, sportbooks, teatros, cinemas, museos.

Tenemos 11 habitaciones ideales para grupos, backpackers (mochileros) y familias. Hay habitaciones para una, dos, tres, cuatro personas, algunas con baño privado. Agua caliente disponible en todas las duchas. Ver nuestra Galeríade Fotos -

Todas nuestras habitaciones son privadas. Ofrecemos almacenaje de equipaje sin costo alguno, damos información turística gratis, vendemos Tours en el país y también Hoteles en todo el país, ofrecemos alquiler de vehículos. Contamos con un área común con televisión y cocina para los huéspedes, donde podrás reunirte con otras personas, divertirte y conocer gente de todas partes del mundo.

Estamos localizados enseguida de la estaciónde buses Tralapa que viaja a Guanacaste, Liberia, Santa Cruz, Flamingo, Tamarindo, Filadelfia, playa Panamá.

NOTA: Nosotros no aceptamos pagos con tarjetas de crédito ni débito.

Tel. 506-256-7715 // Fax. 506-221-8583 // Contactenos por E-Mail

www.costaricahostel.info

Dirección: Ave. 5ta. Entre calles 20 y 22, contiguo a la estación de buses Tralapa. San José, Costa Rica. Ver mapa para localizarnos -

contacto @ costaricahostel.info

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Inicio - InformaciónTurísticade San José - Tours - Tarifas - Localización - Contacto - Links -

Visite nuestros Otros Hoteles en San José Hotel Capital y Hostel Sol y Luna

HOTELES IN COSTA RICA

2007-09-18T13:35:00.000-07:00

http://www.villaslirio.com/ - VILLAS LIRIO

http://www.bluedreamhotel.com/ BLUE DREAM HOTEL

http://www.casa-roland.com/ CASA ROLAND

COSTA RICA VACATIONS - TOURISM INFORMATION LINKS

2007-09-18T13:33:00.001-07:00

INFORMACION TURISTICA DE GUANACASTE COSTA RICA - VACATIONS, HOSTELS, TOURS, ADVENTURE

2007-09-18T10:33:00.001-07:00

Nuestros sitios web:

http://www.abangares.info

http://www.carrillotourist.info

http://www.bagaces.info

http://www.conoscaguanacaste.info

http://www.conozcaguanacaste.info

http://www.fishingguanacaste.info

http://www.guanacasteairport.info

http://www.guanacastediscover.info

http://www.guanacastehoy.info

http://www.guanacasteindex.info

http://www.guanacastenorte.info

http://www.guanacastesur.info

http://www.guanacastesearch.info

http://www.guanacasteweb.info

http://www.hotelsguanacaste.info

http://www.lacruztourist.info

http://www.liberiatourist.info

http://www.nandayure.info

http://www.nicoyatourist.info

http://www.ojanacha.info

http://www.santacruztourist.info

http://www.tilaran.info

http://www.toursguanacaste.info

http://www.turismoguanacaste.info

http://www.viajesguanacaste.info

http://www.guanacasterentacar.info

http://www.ragribusiness.com

http://www.espectajoyas.com

www.hotelcapital.org

www.hostelsolyluna.com

www.ricacostarica.info

http://www.credipaginas.com

promicione su sitio de internet con nostros, add your link, mercadeo internet, online marketing, diseño paginas web costa rica

2007-07-28T13:35:00.000-07:00

Tenemos 20 páginas a su disposición, concentradas en información sobre Guanacaste en español o ingles, con un alto índice de presencia en la Web, somos la mejor opción en publicidad por Internet para todo negocio de la zona que quiera ser mas visto por los cibernautas, promocione su sitio Web, intercambie links con nosotros, si no tiene pagina en Internet podemos anunciar su servicio en nuestras paginas de información turística de Guanacaste. Dominamos las principales búsquedas garantizándole al menos una de nuestras páginas en las primeras diez posiciones de cada búsqueda que realice relacionada con información turística de Guanacaste!! Añada su link, inserte su link, promociones su sitio www.linkscr.info contacto@linkscr.info

Bernardo Escobar A.

hotel luna llena guanacaste tamarindo costa rica quality accommodation

2007-07-28T13:33:00.000-07:00




	We are the owners of HOTEL LUNA LLENA in Tamarindo. Tamarindo Beach is located on the Pacific coast of Costa Rica, in the Guanacaste region. This region is very popular for its mild climate, and has grown to be one of the most popular tourist destinations in this intriquing and relaxing Central American Country.

www.hotellunallena.com

Home - The Hotel - The Rooms - Videos - Prices - Reservations - Location - E-Mail - Guest Book

Luna Llena - Calle Real, Playa Tamarindo, Guanacaste, Costa Rica
Tel: (+506) 653-0082, Fax: (+506) 653-0120,

CHEAP HOTELS COSTA RICA

2007-07-27T14:24:00.000-07:00

www.ricacostarica.info

WE HAVE SEVERAL OFFERS IN HOTELS AROUND THE COUNTRY FOR YOU -Please check the list below, we could get excelent prices for double and triple rooms plus cabins - equipped apartments for 6 people - and also adventure tours around the country- please contact us and let us know the hotel you are interested in order to send you a quote:

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Guanacaste:

El milagro - Tamarindo

Hotel Samara Beach - Sámara

Hotel Flor de Itabo - Playas del Coco

Hotel La Plazuela

Bahía de los Piratas (villas)

Barceló Playa Langosta

Best Western Tamarindo Vista Villas (villas)

Café de Paris Hotel

Cala Luna Hotel & Villas (villas)

Capitán Suizo (villas)

Casa del Mar Hotel

Conde del Mar & Resort Hotel

Condovac la Costa (villas)

Costa Blanca del Pacífico

El jardín del Edén

El Milagro Hotel

EL Nakuti Resort

Bahía del Sol Beach

El Ocotal Beach Resort (villas)

Fiesta Premier

Flamingo Marina Resort (villas)

Giardini Di Papagayo

Guanamar

Nacazcol Hotel (villas)

Occidental Allegro Papagayo

Samara Beach

Sugar Beach

Villagio Flor de Itabo (villas)

Villas Acacia Hotel (villas)

Borinquen Mountain Resort

Casa Conde Del Mar

Ecoplaya

Flamingo Beach Resort

Flamingo Marina Resort

Four Season Resort

Chapernal Countryside Attractions

Hacienda Guachipelín

Hacienda Pinilla

Iguana Azul

La Siesta

Occidental Allegro Papagayo

Occidental Grand Papagayo

Ocotal Beach Resort

Paradisus Playa Conchal

Playa Negra Hotel

Rinconcito Lodge

Sugar Beach

Sundance Hotel & Casino

Tamarindo Diriá Beach

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Puntarenas:

Hotel la Isla - Playa Palo Seco.
Hotel Balcón del Mar - Puntarenas

Hotel Lookout - Puntarenas playa tortuga

Alamar

Barcelo Tambor Beach

Costa Coral del Pacifico

La ensenada Lodge

Tambor Tropical

Tango Mar Hotel Beach & Spa

Tioga Hotel

Yadran Hotel

Belmar (Monteverde)

Claro de Luna (Monteverde)

De lucia inn Monteverde

Finca Valverde"s Hotel

Heliconia

Las Orquídeas

Apartotel Costa Arenas

Apartotel Girasol

Arboleda

Best Western Jacó Beach

Canciones del Mar

Casitas Eclipse

Club del Mar

Cocal & Casino

Condominios Club del Sol

Didi"s Charmirng House B&B

Doce Lunas

Fuego del Sol

Karahé

Kekoldi Beach

La mansión Inn

La Mariposa

Las Tres Banderas

Makanda By the Sea Hotel

Mimos

Monterey del Mar

Parador Resort

Playa Espadilla

Pochote Grande

Punta Leona

Sirena

Tangeri Villas

Terraza del pacifico

Timarai Bamboo

Tulemar

Verde mar del pacifico

Walt Paraíso

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San Carlos (Arenal Volcano La Fortuna):

Hotel la Pradera Hotel Miradas Arenal
Hotel La Garza Miradas Arenal - Palma de la Fortuna.
Hotel Paradise Montain Logde
Hotel Jardines ArenalHotel Lago Arenal
Hotel Gran Arenal

Arena Lodge

Arenal Observatory Lodge

Arenal Paraíso Resort & Spa

Bosques de Chachagua

Cataratas Resort Hotel

Ecolodge Hotel

La Choza Inn

Lomas del Volcán Hotel

Luiguis Lodge

Occidental el Tucano

Tabacón Resort

Tacotal Hotel

Tilajari Resort

Villa Blanca Hotel

Volcano Logde

Arenal Country Inn

Arenal Paraíso Resort & Spa

Cataratas Resort

Chachagua Rain Forest

Eco Lodge

Lomas del volcán

Luigi"s Lodge

Monte Escondido

Natural Lodge Caño Negro

Occidental Tucano Spa & Resort

Rock River Lodge

Tilajari Resort

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Limon:
Hotel Punta Cocles - Puerto viejo Limón.
Villas Itaita, - Puerto Viejo, Limón

Hotel hibiscus ubicado en Cahuita Limón

Ilan Ilan

Jungle Lodge

Laguna Lodge

Mawamba Lodge

Pachira Lodge

Rain Forest Lodge

Rios Tropicales Lodge

Suerre Hotel

Almendros y corales Lodge

Azania Bungalows

Cabinas Casa Verde Lodge

Cariblue

Casa Camarona

La costa de papito Bungalows

Suerre Caribean Beach

Tótem Hotel

Villas del Caribe Beach

Yaré Bungalows

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Manuel Antonio and South pacific:

Hotel & Cabinas Pedro Miguel - Manuel Antonio, Quepos
Hotel Paraíso Carlisa - Puriscal
Villas María Luisa Lodge- Playa uva, next to Parque Marino Ballena

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Contact us: Phone: (506) 221-4337 - Fax: (506) 221-8583

Cell phone: (506) 398-5032
Email: info@ricacostarica.info // www.ricacostarica.info

Our staff speaks in Costa Rica and Canada: French, English and Spanish.

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Our Hotels in San Jose

Hotel Capital
La Pampa Hostel
Hostel Sol y Luna

All Guanacaste

HOTEL OFFERS AROUND THE COUNTRY - private rooms, A/C, TV cable, bathroom, double and triple

Costa Rica Info

Country
Economy
Culture
Society
Climate

Contact Us:

We offer several tours in Costa Rica, we hope you are going to like them, please check our tours, if you need a customiziced tour, please let us know

RicaCostaRica Tours ©

Interesting links in Costa Rica

2007-05-19T09:41:00.001-07:00

Hotel Capital

Hostel Sol y Luna

Verdel group Bienes raices

Benita Morales Bienes Raices

Directorio de informacion de Costa Rica

Revista Agribusiness

Capro de cartago

Akra Contemporaneo

All Guanacaste Information
Best Guanacaste Information
Explore Guanacaste
Go Visit Guanacaste
Guanacaste Bureau

Guanacaste Hoteles
Guanacaste Information
Guanacaste Map
Guanacaste Tours
Guia Guanacaste
Info Guanacaste
Costa Rica Guanacaste
Guanacaste Rent a Car
Eco Guanacaste
Guanacaste Life
Offical Guanacaste
Guanacaste Playas
Directorio Guanacaste

www.ricacostarica.info - Adventure Tours in Costa Rica
info@ricacostarica.info
San Jose - Costa Rica

INFORMATION ABOUT COSTA RICA - ON THE WEB - VALUE LINKS

2007-01-27T09:06:00.000-08:00

BEST SOURCE OF INFORMATION ABOUT COSTA RICA - ON THE WEB

http://www.ragribusiness.com/

DISEÑO DE PAGINAS WEB - ECONOMICO Y ETICO - MERCADEO ONLINE

2007-01-27T08:56:00.000-08:00

LA MEJOR OPCION PARA TENER SU PROPIA PAGINA WEB Y MERCADEARLA ONLINE, ECONOMICO Y SERIO.

http://www.credipaginas.com

HOSTEL SOL Y LUNA COSTA RICA BACKPACKERS

2007-01-27T08:51:00.000-08:00

BEST OPTION FOR BACKPACKERS AND BUDGET TRAVELERS IN SAN JOSE COSTA RICA

http://www.hostelsolyluna.com

CENTRAL AMERICA ONLINE FREE DIRECTORY

2006-10-31T14:58:00.000-08:00

ADD YOUR SITE BY FREE TO OUR CENTRAL AMERICA ONLINE DIRECTORY, CLIK HERE:
http://centralamerica.01dir.com then choose your category and click on Submit URL.
Thanks a lot.

Ciencia y tecnologia en Costa Rica

2006-10-27T12:55:00.000-07:00

Costa Rica estratégicamente aspira a posicionarse internacionalmente como una economía basada en conocimientos que atrae inversiones externas y se inserta en mercados mundiales más efectivamente. Esta estrategia no es quimérica si se considera que la expectativa de crecimiento económico e índices de desarrollo humano de Costa Rica son ya más altos que los de México, Brasil y Panamá (World Economic Forum y PNUD).
La ciencia y la tecnología son componentes estratégicos del modelo de desarrollo de cualquier país. La investigación científica y tecnológica desempeña un papel vital en el crecimiento económico y en la consecución del objetivo primordial del desarrollo humano integral.
La innovación integra los conceptos y las acciones de desarrollo científico-tecnológico con su impacto en el desarrollo productivo y en el crecimiento económico del país; necesarios para sustentar los mejores niveles de calidad de vida de la sociedad costarricense. El desarrollo de una capacidad de innovación permanente es una condición de viabilidad para garantizar la sostenibilidad de la competitividad nacional.
Por eso la educación de la población nacional constituye un eje que atraviesa todos los sectores productivos, considerándose como la inversión necesaria, que requiere del financiamiento adecuado, el cual se ha establecido en el 6% anual del PIB, según Ley de la Republica.
En el Proyecto de Ciencia y Tecnología para la Competitividad, planteado por la actual Administración, se evidencia la necesidad de concentrar esfuerzos que resulten en el mayor valor agregado a la producción nacional y se fortalezca la capacidad de transferir y generar conocimientos que apoyen la creación de ventajas comparativas. En este sentido, se deben enfatizar ciertos sectores de conocimientos estratégicos con potencial y crear más eslabones en la cadena productiva.
El esfuerzo innovador del país permitió una evolución positiva, ocupando la posición 28 de 59 países en el índice de innovación, ubicándose por encima de Chile, Brasil, México y Argentina.
Según el estudio del Banco Interamericano de Desarrollo BID (realizado para efectos del Proyecto de Ciencia y Tecnología para Competitividad); se denota que del lado de la ciencia y tecnología, Costa Rica tiene ventajas significativos por ello, ha podido atraer inversiones extranjeras directas estratégicas como las de INTEL, Abbott Laboratories y Procter & Gamble.

El estudio continua, enumerando las siguientes condiciones en ciencia y tecnología en el país:

El potencial científico y tecnológico se deriva de fortalezas relativas específicas, notablemente en las ciencias agrícolas, biológicas, y de información, así como al sistema de educación nacional. También se deriva de las políticas económicas que, por ejemplo, han facilitado que los centros de TIC estén ubicados en la zona franca, posean fuerte patrocinio del gobierno, y tengan apoyo activo de la comunidad académica.
Sin embargo, los productos innovadores y los aportes de la I+D han sido limitados, en gran parte, por la baja inversión (0,3% del PIB, 1999) en I+D los países avanzados invierten de 2-3% del PIB por año. De esa inversión, en 1998, sólo 25% provenían del sector productivo; 10% de organismos internacionales; y el resto del sector público. La norma en países pequeños industrializados es que de 50%-60% de la inversión proviene del sector privado.
Sin embargo, costa Rica presenta un bajo posicionamiento en el Índice de Tecnología, posición 46 en el Cuadro 1 vemos además que no mejoró su posicionamiento entre el 2000 y 2004. Este índice refleja la capacidad de innovar, utilización de las últimas tecnologías, y de I+D, por lo cual fija un lugar muy poco favorable desde el punto de vista de la creatividad de empresarios y tecnólogos para promover la innovación tecnológica.

The pace of life in Costa Rica

2006-10-26T11:02:00.000-07:00

The pace of life in Costa Rica is considerably slower than it is in the United States. Part of this was undoubtedly because we traveled as tourists, mostly in rural Costa Rica, in the low season. I'm sure that it would have been somewhat different in San Jose in the high season, or working at Intel's plant in Heredia. Still, people in Costa Rica aren't as frantic about getting things done on time as people are in the US. Costa Ricans act as though people are more important than deadlines, and people expect to make time for each other, and to wait for other people and to have other people wait for them. Expatriates, and some Costa Ricans, call this living on Tico Time. Punctuality is not next to godliness, and waiting is not seen as offensive, or as a waste of time. We ran into this all the time. The best example of this was one day when a hotel owner offered to take us and some other people in the hotel up to see turtles coming ashore to lay eggs at Ostional (a fantastic trip). He said that we would leave the hotel after lunch, and I asked him exactly when after lunch we should be ready to go. He shrugged his shoulders, looked at me and slapped his empty wrist and said "you see a watch? We will leave when everybody is ready to go." It worked both ways -- once we were about to go out to dinner and another hotel owner stopped us and asked if we would help her middle-school aged son with his homework, because he had a test the next day but was still confused about the difference between the comparative and the superlative. Having made her house into a home for our family (mi casa es su casa), she expected that we would do no less for her family. So we happily postponed our dinner for an hour to tutor her son.

Welcome to Costa Rica Central Valley Information

2006-10-25T13:48:00.000-07:00

Welcome to Costa Rica Central Valley Information

The main entryway to the country, the Central Valley offers a variety of tourist, cultural and natural attractions, including Costa Rica best museums: the Gold, Jade, National, Costa Rican Art, La Salle Natural Science, University of Costa Rica Insect and Children Contemporary Art and Design Museums.

In addition, this region is home to the architectural jewel of Costa Rica: the National Theater. All of these are located in the country capital. The national parks located in the Valley Poas, Braulio Carrillo, Irazu and Turrialba protect the region main volcanoes. All have road infrastructure so that visitors can enjoy their birds, natural landscapes, craters and forests.

The country capital, San Jose, is the seat of most government services; however, the provincial capitalsAlajuela, Heredia and Cartagooffer a variety of quality commercial and tourism services. As a tourism zone, the Central Valley features two extraordinarily beautiful areas that in and of themselves are true tourist destinations: Turrialba and Valle de los Santos.

The rural towns, for their part, are highly picturesque, and offer a glimpse of old Costa Rica, with their houses of bahareque (a building material similar to adobe but made of cattle dung and straw), large coffee plantations, sugar mills and dairies. ACTIVITIES Tourist activities abound in this region, and may take in culture, adventure or nature.

HORSEBACK RIDING Outside the big cities, in the Central Valley rural zone, getting about on horseback is commonplace. Tourists can enjoy this activity in communities such as Turrialba, Santa Maria de Dota, Atenas, Zarcero, San Ramon, Palmares, upper Cartago, Heredia and Alajuela, as well as in the south and west parts of San Jose: Escazu, Santa Ana and Ciudad Colon, among other places.

HIKING There is no limit to the variety of hikes available for observing the region natural, historical, architectural, cultural, religious and commercial attractions.

RECREATIONAL CYCLING The region offers a variety of picturesque roads and adventure or leisure sites that allow touring on regular or mountain bikes. Interesting routes include San Antonio de Escazu to the University for Peace, Turrialba to La Suiza, and Cañon del Guarco to Copey de Dota.

SHOPPING In recent years, a variety of new shopping centers have been developed in Curridabat, Zapote, downtown Alajuela, Escazu and Heredia, offering interesting shopping options for international tourists.

ART GALLERIES Art galleries have experienced a significant increase in recent years, not only in tourist and hotel districts but also in major commercial centers. Examples of Costa Rican art may be seen in cultural houses and in all the provincial capitals. In association with the Ministry of Culture, a few municipalities have created Culture Offices to discover local artists, which has encouraged an increase in artistic endeavors.

ARCHITECTURAL AND HISTORIC SITES The Central Valley contains a wide variety of sites and buildings declared National Monuments or of architectural or historical interest to appeal to tourists appreciative of the country national heritage.

SPELUNKING The cavern system in the outskirts of Patarra offers adventure and the chance to learn about the fossils found in the mountain.

CUISINE Many modern shopping centers and typical towns have restaurants and sodas (small, usually family-run restaurants serving local food) where visitors can sample Costa Rican cuisine. Communities with traditions in traditional food and drink include Zarcero, Ciudad Quesada, Santa Maria de Dota, Aserri, La Garita, Poasito de Alajuela, Monte de la Cruz, Heredia, Pacayas de Alvarado, Santa Cruz de Turrialba, Atenas, Orosi and Grecia, as well as El Empalme, La Trinidad and Copey.

PLANT AND WILDLIFE OBSERVATION Visitors can observe nature and wildlife in several public protected areas, such as Braulio Carrillo, Volcan Poas and Tapanti-Macizo de la Muerte, as well as in the Lankester Botanical Garden, the Simon Bolivar Zoo, the Santa Ana National Zoo and the zoo in La Garita de Alajuela. Added to these, a few theme parks offer enjoyable experiences with nature.

SUGAR MILLS Sugar mills are used for one of the most traditional processes in the country: manufacturing products from sugar cane. Mostly located in rural areas, sugar mills are places where entire families get their livelihood, and where grandfathers, parents and children alike participate in the work. Old sugar mills in good working condition are found in Piedades Norte, Bajos de la Paz and San Ramon de Alajuela; some of these are powered by oxen. Water-powered mills can be found in San Antonio de Escazu, Jaris de Mora and Grecia. Several sugar mills have been converted into tourist attractions for travelers wanting to try sugary treats such as perico, sobado and espumas, breathe in the sweet aroma or learn about the production process.

MUSEUMS The most culturally and historically diverse selection of museums in the country are located in this region, including the National Museum, Museum of Contemporary Art and Design, Children Museum, Museum of Costa Rican Art, Gold Museum, Popular Culture Museum, Juan Santamaria Museum, Orosi Museum, Entomological Museum, La Salle Museum, Jade Museum and others.

BIRD-WATCHING The Central Valley offers several bird-watching sites, including Copey de Dota and Macizo de la Muerte on the southern Interamerican highway, El Rodeo Protected Area, the environs of the University for Peace, the Tapanti area, Paraiso and the upper regions of Coronado. Birds in captivity may be seen in the Simon Bolivar Zoo and the Bird Zoo in La Garita, Alajuela.

TREETOP AND TRAIL ADVENTURES Several companies and organizations have developed facilities for visitors to enjoy adventure activities on nature trails and in the forest canopy: INBIO in Santo Domingo de Heredia; the Central American Livestock Farming School in Balsa de Atenas; the TURU BA-RI Tropical Park in Turrubares, which has facilities with an ecotourism focus, gardens with exotic species, a herbarium, a garden maze and butterfly garden; and the Butterfly Garden in the outskirts of Varablanca, with trails between several waterfalls on the Rio La Paz, a hummingbird garden and butterfly garden.

PHOTOGRAPHY Photography is a promising activity thanks to the varied cultural, architectural and scenic options available, as well as the wealth of flora and fauna, waterfalls, rivers, volcanoes, coffee and sugarcane plantations and dairies.

LANGUAGE TRAINING As a complement to the tourist activities available in the Central Valley, language training is offered in some state universities, as well as through a few private institutions and travel agencies. Courses may be taken not only in the capital but also in towns such as San Isidro de Coronado, Ciudad Colon and Paraiso.

BUTTERFLY AND SNAKE GARDENS Visitors to these places can observe a variety of butterfly species or learn about the natural history of snakes. There are gardens in San Jose, Heredia and Turrialba.

TRAIN RIDE TO THE PACIFIC Tourists can take the train from San Jose to the Pacific on the â€Å“Paseo en Tren a la Tica departing for Caldera every Saturday and Sunday at six a.m. This unique activity started up a few years ago after a group of friends had the idea to somehow revive those unforgettable train trips that started in 1910, when the Maria Cecilia locomotive first began direct train service between San Jose and Puntarenas. With a total capacity of 130 passengers, the train departs at six on the nose. The route has not changed; behind the tracks are the Numar factory, La Sabana, Pavas and Belen. Loitering in the aisles is not permitted, as vendors pass through selling coffee and refreshments, followed by newspapers, oranges, mangos and sweets. At Rio Grande, a serenade begins and is repeated from car to car. The Cambalache tunnel indicates the train approach to Mata de Limon, and at ten a.m. it arrives at its last stop: Puerto Caldera.

CULTURAL ACTIVITIES In the provincial capitals, especially on Sundays at around ten a.m., concerts by the National Bands of Cartago, Heredia, Alajuela and San Jose may be enjoyed. This traditional activity normally takes place in the Central Park of each province. In addition, throughout the year communities celebrate historical, religious, sporting, civic and artistic events, and hold fairs to raise funds for community development. JANUARY. First week. Copa del Cafe International Tennis Tournament. Weekend closest to the 10th. Public Festivals, Alajuelita. First half of January. Palmares public festivals. Latter half of January. La Naranja Expo-fair, Ciudad Colon. All month. Quetzal-watching, Macizo de la Muerte. FEBRUARY. Second weekend in February. Macizo Tourism Expo-fair, Copey de Dota. All month. Quetzal-watching, Macizo de la Muerte. MARCH. 9. Dia del Boyero, San Antonio de Escazu. 1-2, 7-9. Onion fair, Centro Agricola Cantonal, Santa Ana. 19. San Jose Obrero Artisan Fair, San Jose. 19-23. Llano Grande Costa Rican flower festival, Cartago. All month. Quetzal-watching, Macizo de la Muerte. APRIL. 11. Hero Juan Santamaria Tourism Expo-fair, civic cultural celebration, Alajuela. Last weekend in April. Cafe Los Santos Tourism Expo-fair. Last week. Outdoor Art Exhibition, San Rafael de Escazu. All month. Quetzal-watching, Macizo de la Muerte. MAY. 1. Labor Day. 15. Feast of San Isidro Labrador, San Isidro de Heredia, Coronado, San Jose, Tierra Blanca, Pacayas and San Isidro de Grecia. EXPOTUR, International Tourism Exchange. All month. Quetzal-watching, Macizo de la Muerte. JUNE. All month starting on the 5th. Madre Fertil-Tierra Nuestra Environmental Festival. All month. Quetzal-watching, Macizo de la Muerte. JULY. International Brass and Trombone Festival of Costa Rica. Second week, Thursday. EXPO-OSA TURISMO, Tourism Marketing Exchange, San Jose. AGUST. 1. Pilgrimage to Cartago. 2. Virgin of the Angels Day. First week. Cheese Expo-fair, Santa Cruz de Turrialba. 24. National Parks Day. Last weekend of August. Procession of the Saints, San Ramon de Alajuela. SETEMBER. 14. Lantern parade. 15. Costa Rican Independence Day. 29. Feasts of Archangels San Miguel, San Gabriel and San Rafael. 26-28. Orosi Colonial Tourism Expo-fair, Cartago. OCTUBER. 12. Cultures Day. 9-16. International Bowling Tournament, La Raza Tournament. Latter half of October. Manos Creadoras National Handicrafts Fair. Feast of San Rafael in San Rafael de Poas, San Rafael de Heredia, San Rafael de Oreamuno and San Rafael de Escazu. NOVEMBER. Last week. Fair in Atenas. Third weekend in November. Rural Tourism Fair. Last Saturday in November. Procession of the Saints and ox-drover parade. La Ruta de los Conquistadores mountain-bike race. DECEMBER. 1. Army Abolition Day. 1. Nativity scene inauguration and Christmas carol week, National Theater. 3. Christmas festival, CENAC. First weekend in December. Coffee Expo-fair, Cachi, Cartago. Second weekend in December. Outdoor Art Festival, San Pedro. Second Saturday. Festival of Light, San Jose. 24. San Jose public festivals. 26. San Jose carnival. 27. Tope Nacional horse parade.

RURAL TOURISM ACTIVITIES AND SERVICES Rural tourism activities and services offered in the Central Valley and their corresponding locations within the region are as follows: A wide variety of attractions and activities are offered around La Cangreja Lodge in Puriscal, one kilometer south of Mastatal. Activities: Nature-trail hiking, visits to a sugar mill, horseback riding to Del Rey waterfalls or La Cangreja hill, tobacco tours, visits to the Quitirrisi Indigenous Reservation. San Jose Rural Lodge, located three kilometers east of the Escuela de Palmichal de Acosta, offers several activities and attractions. Activities: Trips through a 42-hectare preserve, visits to a coffee refinery, bicycle tours and visits to the Quitirrisi Indigenous Reservation. Located 15 kilometers northwest of San Ramon in Bajo La Paz, Bajo La Paz Student Hostel allows guests to enjoy nature and communal life. Activities: Trails through primary and secondary forest, horseback rides to Las Placas hill, visits to sugar mills and waterfalls and trout fishing. La Flor de Paraiso Tropical Agro-ecology Farm and Language School is located in the community of La Flor, in Paraiso de Cartago. Activities: Tours of the property, with farm animals, organic crops, forest in regeneration, a crafts workshop, botanical garden and sugar mill. Copal Lodge is located six kilometers from Humo de Pejibaye, Jimenez; the last stretch of road requires an all-terrain vehicle. Activities: Forest trail hiking and bird-watching, visits to the sugar mill, horseback and oxcart rides.

ATTRACTIONS TURRIALBA Several cities developed and prospered as a result of the building of the railroad to the Caribbean; Turrialba is one of these, and its architectural, spatial and ethnic makeup is different from other towns. Declared a City of National Archeological Interest, this town is the entryway to the Costa Rican Caribbean. Two universities are located here: the Tropical Agronomy Research and Learning Center (CATIE), of international influence, and the University of Costa Rica. Turrialba outskirts contain appealing rural communities such as Santa Cruz, where homemade Turrialba cheese is produced, La Suiza and Aquiares, as well as the rapids of the Reventazon and Pacuare rivers.

RIO PACUARE Flowing out of the Cordillera de Talamanca, this river offers excellent rafting. The run is suitable for big and small whitewater rafters, and parts of the trip offer stunning scenery.

VALLE DE OROSI This highly scenic tourism circuit features a series of viewpoints showing two different areas of the valley, including the towns of Orosi and Ujarras, the first two Spanish settlements in the era of the Conquista. Here, visitors can see two of the only colonial buildings in the country: the renamed Ujarras Ruins and the beautiful Iglesia de Orosi, with its considerable treasures in altarpieces, sacred images and other historical elements. Because of its strategic location, the Reventazon Valley, as it is also called, is a mandatory stop with many travel agencies, which find here a high-quality tourism destination where tourists can enjoy fishing for trout and langoustines, rent boats, soak in hot springs and take in agricultural plantations and works of engineering. In addition, many lodging facilities have been established in this area over the last few years.

RIO REVENTAZON At 152 kilometers long, the Reventazon features stretches perfect for rafting, fishing or canoeing. The thick greenery on the river banks adds to the enjoyment of a trip down its waters. The mid zone of this river is the Cachi Hydroelectric Plant largest water supply source.

CACHI HYDROELECTRIC DAM AND RESERVOIR This dam began operating in 1966, generating 32,000 kilowatts of power, which doubled one year later. Its innovative use of the Reventazon waters makes it the first of its kind in Central America. The reinforced-concrete structure, 79 meters tall and 186 meters wide, draws the attention of both national and international tourists traveling through the Ujarras Valley. Several leisure and eating establishments have arisen around the reservoir to facilitate visits from local and foreign tourists.

OROSI HOT SPRINGS According to the Romanian specialists who assessed Costa Rica hot springs in 1981, these waters are effective for relieving muscular pain and reducing stress. Orosi has two pools with good facilities for the national tourists who come to bathe in the waters. Around the Mirador de Orosi, a large outfit has been established that offers a number of quality services and taps into other hot springs highly beneficial to the body.

OROSI CHURCH AND COLONIAL MUSEUM Built in 1743 by Franciscan missionaries, this is the only colonial building in good condition in Costa Rica. Many works of art can be admired inside, including paintings, sacred images and the altar. The adjacent museum houses pieces and artifacts used by the Franciscans during the evangelical period, displaying something of the lifestyle of that era. The site was declared a National Monument in 1985.

LOS NOVIOS WATERFALL Known for the many anecdotes about the origin of its name (â€Å“The Couple), this waterfall adorns the slopes of Picacho hill, and can be viewed from the highway to Ujarras Valley or the Costa Rica Tourism Board Ujarras viewpoint.

RUINS OF THE IGLESIA DE LA PURISIMA CONCEPCION IN UJARRAS This church construction was ordered during the second half of the 16th century by the Governor of Costa Rica at that time, Miguel Gomez de Lara. The Franciscan missionaries carried out their labors in Ujarras around the church. Declared a National Monument in 1920, today the church is a visitor attraction of great architectural and historical interest within the Reventazon Valley circuit.

CARTAGO The Very Noble and Very Loyal City of Cartago was Costa Rica first capital, a distinction the city held until 1823. Cartago enjoys a good level of commercial development and state services. Despite seismic activity that has caused considerable damage throughout the city history, several important architectural structures still remain. Cartago is home to Costa Rica patron saint, Our Lady of the Angels. OUR LADY OF THE ANGELS BASILICA Built in 1921, this church houses a small shrine where the faithful go to worship Costa Rica patron saint in hopes of a miracle, to be healed or to give thanks for prayers answered. A mixture of Roman, Arabic and Gothic styles, the basilica has Italian floors and 32 stained-glass windows from Germany depicting the Virgin, Heart of Jesus and the 15 Stations of the Cross. PILGRIMAGE IN HONOR OF OUR LADY OF THE ANGELS Each year, starting several days before August 2, Costa Ricans from all over the country make pilgrimages from their homes to Our Lady of the Angels Basilica in Cartago, to fulfill a promise or ask for help with health or financial problems. COLEGIO SAN LUIS GONZAGA Founded as a learning institution in 1842, San Luis Gonzaga has produced several noteworthy Costa Rican political and professional figures. Several earthquakes destroyed the original facilities, with the earthquake of 1910 finally spurring the move to the school present-day location. Dating back to 1920, this building demonstrates a neoclassical influence, and was declared of Historical and Architectural Interest in 1989. The facilities house a museum featuring archeological, colonial-furniture, scientific and ethnological collections. IGLESIA DE QUIRCOT Located in the community of Quircot, this church is around 100 years old. A typical adobe construction, it was declared a Relic of Historical-Cultural Interest in 1986. CASA DE LA CIUDAD DE CARTAGO (PIRIE BUILDING) The first floor was built in 1882, with the second added in 1900. This is one of the few buildings to survive Cartago earthquakes. Today it is used for a number of Cartago artistic and cultural activities. PARROQUIA DE SANTIAGO APÃâ€œSTOL (CARTAGO RUINS) Construction resumed in 1904 after thirty years of stoppage; however, the Santa Monica earthquake on May 4, 1910, put a definitive end to Cartago interest in completing the building. The site is visited by various travel companies bringing a constant stream of international tourists wanting to learn about the ruins history and see the architecture, bells and colonial streets. CRISTO DE OCHOMOGO Located in Cerros de Ochomogo, this monument commemorates the Costa Ricans who died from March to April of 1823, when the â€Å“imperialists who supported union with Mexico Iturbide Empire did battle with the republicans who believed in complete independence from other countries. As a result of this confrontation among Costa Ricans, Cartago lost its title as the country capital to San Jose.

CORDILLERA DE TALAMANCA Made up of tertiary sedimentary marine rock, plutonic rock and volcanic domes from the upper Miocene, this mountain range runs on a northwest-to-southeast axis. Oak forests cover some areas, with other noteworthy species including magnolia, cacho de venado and pagoda. Plains bare of trees also exist, inhabited by squat shrubs, lichen, grasses, bamboo, ferns and myrtles. Common wildlife includes tapirs, ocelots, jaguarondis and wildcats, as well as mountain hares, goats, kinkajous, raccoons, coatis and agoutis. The range highest peaks are Chirripo at 3,821 meters above sea level and Kamuk at 3,554 meters above sea level.

RIO SAVEGRE, SAN GERARDO DE DOTA In this river cold waters, just a few kilometers from its source, visitors can fish for rainbow trout, or simply take refuge on its banks to relax or capture the river beauty on film or video. The Savegre features lovely scenic areas, as well as bird-watchingespecially quetzals.

CERRO BUENA VISTA OR DE LA MUERTE Part of the Cordillera de Talamanca, this mountain has an altitude of 3,451 meters. If the weather is kind, both Pacific and Caribbean coasts can be seen from its heights. The mountain features an interesting dwarf forest, and temperatures here can drop to zero degrees Celsius. The upper part of the mountain features a possible sub-volcanic dome, Cerro Jaboncillo (3,000 meters), the result of lava emplacement during the Miocene.

LOS JULIANES WATERFALL Main entry is through the Santa Maria de Dota area. The access road to Los Julianes runs through a region of virgin mountains called Fila Bayoneta. The waterfall is around 90 meters tall.

SAN GERARDO WATERFALL To get to this 40-meter waterfall, visitors walk approximately two and a half hours through primary forest, observing spectacular plant and wildlife species.

VALLE DE SANTA MARIA DE DOTA Seat of the Dota canton, Santa Maria is set in a valley surrounded by mountains. Converging here are the access roads to other communities such as Copey, San Marcos de Tarrazu and San Pablo de Leon Cortes. The population is concentrated on the banks of the Rio Parrita, in blocks like those used in old Spanish towns. Historical and natural attractions include: Santa Maria National Park, with its Monument to the Fallen in the Revolution of 1948; the Escuela Republica de Bolivia, which was the General Barracks for troops during the revolution; and the Dota hills offering lovely panoramic views of the valley.

FEAST OF SANTA MARIA DE LA CUEVA This traditional religious feast involves activities very uncommon in the rest of the country, such as fireworks, typical foods for sale, running with the bulls a la tica and various competitions: carreras de cintas, el palo encebado, juego de la bruja and others. Events go on for a week, ending with the chinga, in which everyone involved in the activities participates. The celebration takes place on February 2 of each year.

VALLE DE COPEY At 1,853 meters in altitude, this small valley is home to the community of Copey, and features unique conditions for hiking, photography, horseback riding, fishing, bird-watching and other leisure activities. Visitors can enjoy flower farms and apple orchards, typical architecture, natural landscapes and more. Lodging and dining options are offered.

SANTA MARIA DE DOTA PICTURESQUE ROAD The first access route to Santa Maria de Dota, this historic road features forests, rivers, agricultural landscapes and interesting communities such as La Cima and Copey, up to its final destination of Santa Maria.

OJO DE AGUA REFUGE, DOTA Ojo de Agua was built in 1910 as a rest stop for travelers making the trip between San Isidro de El General and San Jose. It has been declared a Historical Relic, and may be visited at its location at kilometer 76 on the southern Interamerican highway. Today, the place is used as a rest stop where groups of riders break their journeys throughout the year.

MONUMENT TO THE HEROES FALLEN IN 1948 Located in Santa Maria de Dota Central Park, this piece by artist Luis Umaña Ruiz depicts a woman protecting a group of men and women within her arms, symbolizing Costa Rica safeguarding its citizens. The piece weighs around 90 tons.

SAN JOSE At 1,149 meters above sea level, San Jose enjoys an average temperature of 24 degrees Celsiusan ideal climate for short trips to the Carmen, Catedral, Merced and Hospital districts. Here, visitors can admire the lovely architecture of several buildings that have been declared National Monuments of cultural, historical or architectural interest, including the Post and Telegraph Building, the National Theater, the Children Museum, the Blue Castle and others. The city offers high-quality options in dining and accommodations, from bed and breakfasts and popular sodas (small restaurants serving local and fast food) to fashionable bars for nightlife, complemented with cinemas and theaters. San Jose December religious feasts and public festivals are traditional events that may be enjoyed by visitors.

NATIONAL THEATER Built between 1890 and 1897, this edifice construction costs were paid for by the Costa Rican people through import taxes. The National Theater is home to valuable pieces by Italian artists, and is still in good condition after 100 years. The pride of Costa Ricans, the Theater is the center of the country main cultural, artistic and political activities, and was declared a National Monument in 1965.

MELICO SALAZAR THEATER The Melico Salazar Theater is housed in a building that has been declared of Historical and Architectural Interest. Its purpose is to promote the artistic expression of popular culture, and to provide access to its shows to the broadest possible sector of the population..

METAL BUILDING This hundred-year-old architectural jewel of metal has been used from its beginnings as a house of learning for boys and girls. It was declared of Historical and Architectural Interest in 1980.

TEMPLE OF MUSIC Located in Parque Morazan, this 1920 neoclassical building made of reinforced concrete features almost perfect acoustics. For many years it was the meeting place for the San Jose community, where concerts by the Symphonic Orchestra and the Military Band were enjoyed and the traditional new year greeting was exchanged.

NATIONAL MONUMENT Inaugurated on September 15, 1895, at what was known as the Plaza de la Estacion, the National Monument is a piece by French sculptor Louis Carrier commemorating the heroic deed of the campaign of 1856-1857. The figures represent the Central American countries pursuing a North American invader attired like the slavers represented by William Walker.

NATIONAL MUSEUM (OLD BELLAVISTA BARRACKS) Construction of the Army General Barracks took place between 1916 and 1930. In 1949, after the abolition of the army, the building was converted into the National Museum. Its fundamental purpose is to promote the study, conservation and display of the country flora and fauna. Currently, the museum main themes are archeology, national history and natural history. Located on Calle 17 between Avenidas Central and Segunda, the museum is open to the public Tuesday to Sunday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

CHILDREN MUSEUM Dating back to 1910, this modern museum is designed especially for the children of Costa Rica. The cultural and scientific activities that take place in its more than 50 display rooms are of great impact to the country. Located 800 meters north of the Banco Central in San Jose, the museum is open to the public Tuesday to Sunday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

JADE MUSEUM This museum houses a collection of pre-Columbian art (gold, ceramic, jade and stone), and is the only museum displaying indigenous jade artwork in the Americas. It is located in the Instituto Nacional de Seguros (National Insurance Institute) building.

GOLD MUSEUM The collection of indigenous gold objects displayed at the Gold Museum is considered one of the most valuable in the world. The museum is located in the Plaza de la Cultura, adjacent to the Tourism Information office of the Costa Rica Tourism Board. Located on Calle 5 at Avenida Central, the Gold Museum is open to the public Tuesday to Sunday from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

OUTDOOR ART FESTIVAL, SAN PEDRO, MONTES DE OCA This nonprofit event only goal is to take art to the streets. The event takes place in San Pedro de Montes de Oca, on Calle 9 in San Pedro opposite the Banco Popular, between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. The Outdoor Art Festival is organized with growing success by the Galeria de Ulises. According to Ulises Castillo, the event driving force, for two days the streets and sidewalks become a display area for the work of 80 plastic artists, including Ãngel Lara Gonzalez, Rafael Garcia, Domingo Ramos, Emilia Cersosimo, Joaquin Rodriguez del Paso, Olger Villegas and Fernando Carballo. Event production is undertaken by the participants.

MUSEUM OF COSTA RICAN ART The old La Sabana Airport building is the home of this museum, which normally displays diverse collections of plastic art. On the second floor of the building, the Salon Dorado features a wooden mural depicting the country history from the Amerindian era to the year 1940. Located on Calle 42 at Avenida Segunda, La Sabana, the museum is open to the public from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

PHILATELIC AND NUMISMATIC MUSEUM OF COSTA RICA Located in the San Jose Central Post Office building, this museum displays a collection of postage stamps produced in Costa Rica, as well as a recreation of an office from the last century, complete with equipment used for the first communications in the country.

UNIVERSITY OF COSTA RICA INSECT MUSEUM This museum displays an example of Costa Rica entomological diversity, and is located in the basement of the Faculty of Musical Arts at the University of Costa Rica.

LA SALLE NATURAL SCIENCE MUSEUM With an outstanding ornithology, entomology and malacology collection, this museum displays around 18,000 attractive specimens. Four display rooms exhibit mammals, fish, reptiles and shells; there is also an archeological display room. Located on the southwest side of La Sabana Metropolitan Park, the museum is open to the public Monday to Saturday from 7:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. and Sunday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

MUSEUM OF CONTEMPORARY ART AND DESIGN The administration that designed this project defined it as the first space set aside specifically for circulation, research and reflection on national and international contemporary art in its diverse manifestations. Since 1994, the museum has put on more than 50 exhibitions generated by national and international curators, and has organized important traveling displays, including the first exhibition of contemporary Central American art. Located in San Jose in the Centro Nacional de Cultura (CENAC)a complex of restored buildingsthe museum is open to the public Tuesday to Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

POPULAR CULTURE MUSEUM This museum is located in Santa Lucia de Barva, Heredia, in the house of former president Alfredo Gonzalez Flores. Its fundamental objective is to disseminate and preserve the traditions and identity of the Costa Rican people. The museum also shows visitors the building methods of colonial houses made with adobe and bahareque. A National Heritage, the Popular Culture Museum is open to the public Tuesday to Sunday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

INBIO (BIODIVERSITY INSTITUTE) Dedicated to natural research in the country, INBIO achievements have won the institute several international awards. Located in Santo Domingo de Heredia, the campus features tourist facilities and a Biodiversity Park.

NATIONAL CULTURE CENTER â€â€œ CENAC (OLD NATIONAL LIQUOR FACTORY) One of the oldest buildings in the country, dating back to 1853, CENAC is made up of several facilities, including the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports, the Fanal Theater, Theater 1887 dedicated to dance, the Museum of Contemporary Art and Design, the Stone Gateway and the Sundial.

IGLESIA DE SAN ISIDRO DE CORONADO This structure of German origin was unloaded in late 1930 at the Pacific train station; from there it was transported in oxcarts and deposited in the plaza of San Isidro, Vazquez de Coronado canton, in front of which the neo-Gothic church was erected. The arrangement of the building principal faÃ§ade shows that it has three naves. A series of images adorn the main entryways and the lateral facades. The building was finished in 1934; however, the date of completion is considered to be 1937, when the bells were blessed in a solemn consecration ceremony.

JOAQUIN GARCIA MONGE MUSEUM This museum displays a house from the 19th century made of adobe and caña brava (a giant grass) secured with bejuco and cucharilla (types of liana), colonial-style windows and wood fastened with hand-forged nails. The museum features a series of rooms distributed by geographic and historical context of Garcia Monge time.

OUTDOOR ART EXHIBITION, SAN RAFAEL, ESCAZU The Outdoor Art Exhibition takes place in San Rafael de Escazu once a year, showing a variety of paintings and sculptures by almost 200 artists, in addition to the participation of several art galleries that strengthen the exhibition. Jewelers, photographers and restorers are also present, using the opportunity to sell their work. The event allows new artists to interact with nationally recognized artists.

SANTA ANA Situated between the Escazu and Mora cantons at the foot of the Escazu and Puriscal hills, Santa Ana sits at an altitude of 904 meters above sea level, and enjoys a warm, dry climate. Its proximity to the capital, as well as Escazu, Belen and Alajuela, has enabled the development of a variety of dining and lodging options, including bed and breakfasts. The community combines agriculture, especially onions, with clay handicrafts, making Santa Ana a must-visit destination that can be enjoyed along with typical towns such as Piedades and Rio Oro.

UNIVERSITY FOR PEACE The administration of President Rodrigo Carazo (1978-1982) got the ONU to establish the University for Peace in Costa Rica in 1980. Today the campus has ample facilities, and studies there are directly related to aspects of peace and democracy. Also found here is the Monument to Peace, which highlights the work of different Costa Rican leaders in the interest of peace. The area around the monument is a lovely place for picnics and walks along nature trails featuring educational signs. The university is located seven kilometers from Ciudad Colon in the community of Rodeo.

PURISCAL. West of San Jose, Puriscal features irregular topography. Santiago, the seat of the canton, has an altitude of 1,105 meters above sea level. Puriscal is a great place to visit, thanks to its various attractions. The Quitirrisi Indigenous Reservation, just before Santiago, offers handicrafts made by members of this ethnic group. There are also typical villages, traditional food and drink, tobacco plantations, natural landscapes and various handicrafts made of wood and other materials. A new attraction is La Cangreja National Park, which features a variety of natural attractions, some of which are unique in the world.

PROTECTED AREAS VOLCAN TURRIALBA NATIONAL PARK This 1,257-hectare park most important feature is Volcan Turrialba. With an altitude of 3,340 meters above sea level, Turrialba shares a foundation with Volcan Irazu, which is why they are often identified as twin volcanoes. Turrialba features three well-defined craters as well as others misshapen by volcanic activity. The central crater is the deepest, at approximately 50 meters. On its slopes are two possible cones, Tiendilla (2,791 meters above sea level) and Armado (2,750 meters). Current activity consists of gas and steam eruptions with sulfur deposits. The average temperature here is 16 degrees Celsius, and rainfall varies between 3,000 to 4,000 millimeters per year. Visitor services include trails and several natural viewpoints.

GUAYABO NATIONAL ARCHEOLOGICAL MONUMENT The Guayabo National Monument archeological site represents one of the highest degrees of socio-cultural development achieved by the country pre-Hispanic societies. Declared a National Monument in August 1973 for being the largest and most important archeological site discovered up to that time, Guayabo was occupied through four cultural phases from 1000 B.C. to 1550 A.D. Based on the type of constructionsaqueducts, roads, retaining walls or bridgesand the area, it is estimated that between 1,200 and 1,600 people inhabited the site. The architectural complexity and extraordinary artistic design of the features and artifacts found among the ruins suggest that the site was home to individuals of high social, political, economic and religious standing. The site is located 19 kilometers northwest of Turrialba; however, it may also be accessed via Santa Cruz de Turrialba by all-terrain vehicle. Visitor services include information, a park ranger station, trails, restrooms, drinking water, signage and several natural viewpoints.

VOLCAN IRAZU NATIONAL PARK This park protects colossal Irazu, which, at 3,432 meters above sea level, is the tallest volcano in Costa Rica. The active volcano has a long history of eruptions and eruptive cycles. The protected area many geological features include the Playa Hermosa, Principal and Diego de la Haya craters, as well as the Sapper formation, the highest point in the massif, from which both Caribbean and Pacific coasts may be seen. Visitor services include information, a park ranger station, trails, restrooms, signage, a cafeteria, parking and several natural viewpoints.

BRAULIO CARRILLO NATIONAL PARK Created by Law 8357-A of April 5, 1978, this park is located northeast of the Central Valley in the central Cordillera Volcanica, between the massifs of Poas and Irazu volcanoes. Covering more than 44,000 hectares, Braulio Carrillo is one of the largest protected areas in Costa Rica. Nearly the entire landscape is made up of tall volcanic mountains swathed in forest, with countless great rivers running through deep canyons. Several extinct volcanoes have been identified: Chompipe, at 2,259 meters tall; Turu, at 2,139 meters; Cerro Cacho Negro, at 2,250 meters; and Barva, which has several craters collectively known as Tres Marias with an average height of 1,725 meters. Visitor services include information, a park ranger station, trails, restrooms, drinking water, signage and several natural viewpoints.

VOLCAN POAS NATIONAL PARK Rising 2,708 meters above sea level, this volcano gas emissions have notably increased since 1989, causing acid rain that has damaged plant life in some areas of the park as well as neighboring agricultural plantations. The summit features two craters: the main one, at one and a half kilometers in diameter and 300 meters deep; and Laguna Botos, a cold, rain-fed lake that feeds the Rio Ãngel, a tributary of the Rio Sarapiqui that flows into the Caribbean. Currently the volcano emits a great quantity of gases and steam from the various fumaroles located in the crater inner cone. Visitor services include information, a park ranger station, trails, restrooms, drinking water, signage, a cafeteria, souvenir shop and several natural viewpoints.

BOSQUE ALEGRE WILDLIFE REFUGE This group of volcanic lakes is made up of Bosque Alegre, Congo and Hule lakes, as well as a tropical wet forest. An organized community watches over protection policies and conservation of the refuge. Visitor services include trails, restrooms and natural viewpoints.

TAPANTI-MACIZO DE LA MUERTE NATIONAL PARK With a 58,323-hectare area and altitudes ranging from 1,220 to 2,560 meters above sea level, this park is located in one of the rainiest parts of the country and is home to 45 species of mammals, 260 bird species and 30 reptile species, as well as ancient oak and alder forests. Fed by several tributaries, the Rio Grande de Orosi runs through the area; its waters are used to produce hydroelectric energy and to provide part of the metropolitan area water supply. Macizo de la Muerte is home to Historical Heritage site La Picada de Calderon, a trail still used by horseback riders at various times of the year. Visitor services in the Tapanti area include information, a park ranger station, trails, restrooms, drinking water, signage and natural viewpoints.

LOS SANTOS FOREST PRESERVE Stretching west from the Interamerican highway between El Empalme and the little village of Division, this preserve 62,000 hectares are rich in natural attractions and a large variety of flora and fauna. Among its treasures is the quetzal, a spectacular bird with majestic plumage. CERRO VUELTAS BIOLOGICAL PRESERVE Located in Copey, Cerro Vueltas contains 1,500 hectares. The preserve highest point is 3,156 meters above sea level; its lowest is in the vicinity of the community of Provincia de Dota. The most characteristic type of forest here is paramo (dwarf forest), with its great biodiversity and, in some cases, endemic species.

Suggested equipment: Hat, light jacket, hiking shoes, insect repellent, binoculars and camera.

Tortuguero Costa Rica

2006-10-23T13:25:00.000-07:00

GENERAL INFORMATION Tortuguero is a very important area for its remnants of the Tropical Very Humid Forest that practically covered all of Costa Rica northeast only 50 years ago. One of the reasons for its creation was the protection of green turtles, since this is the most important spawning area of the West Caribbean.

The park has a terrestrial and maritime zone. Its mean annual temperature is 26°C.

LOCATION The park is located on the Caribbean region, 80 km north of the city of Limon and is included in the Tortuguero Conservation Area.

MAIN ATTRACTIONS Here there is an abundance of rivers, canals and lagoons, which are used by locals as well as tourists to navigate through the Park, where nature lovers can admire the exuberant flora and fauna. There are over 400 tree species and around 2,200 species of other plants. The park has a great diversity of fauna, including endangered mammals, such as the jaguar, ocelot, tapir, manatee, tayra, sloth and three species of monkeys. There are 405 species of birds, approximately half of all there are in Costa Rica.

One of its main attractions is the spawning of marine turtles, as the gigantic leatherback, the green turtle, the loggerhead, of a brownish color and the hawksbill turtle, which is the smallest. All are in danger of extinction.

SERVICES OFFERED General information, restrooms, trails, fluvial port. The town of Tortuguero has a runway, local guides, and food and lodging services.

REGULATIONS Please remind the guide to be aware of abuse of speed. The noise that outboard engines make scare animals away, cause erosion and tend to disrupt nature equilibrium and quietude. All the protected wildlife areas of Costa Rica have legal regulations on visitors` activities and resource protection. Ask the guides about this. In case you need help, look for the Park personnel. They will be ready and willing to help you. Don`t litter. Nature does not know what to do with garbage. It is forbidden to feed the animals. Feeding animals favors their aggressive behavior and make them dependent up to the point they stop looking for their own food and die. All living beings share this planet with you. Respect their lives.

For your own security, please stay only on the trails. Protect the banners and any other sign you find. Nature sounds are unique. Keep silence, avoid noisy activities when sailing or hiking in the forest. Don`t disturb the environment. Denounce any anomaly concerning guides services to the park administration office.

GANDOCA COSTA RICA

2006-10-23T13:24:00.000-07:00

GENERAL INFORMATION Gandoca Manzanillo is a National Wildlife Refuge of a mixed type. Its most important ecosystems are the yellow sand beaches and wetlands, including swamps, lagoons, inundated forests, coral reefs, banks of marine flowering plants and algae.

The combination of landscapes of land, beach, and sea, add to the local culture and make it very attractive for visitors. It protects the habitat of endangered species such as the manatee and marine turtles. To the south of Mona Point, remains the only a remnant of the rubber tree forests in the South Caribbean part of the country. The conservation and sustainable management of these ecosystems is carried in conjunction with the participation of the communities, since this is the central axis for the management of this Refuge.

In the Refuge there is only one life form: the Tropical Moist Forest which follows the general climatic pattern typical of the South Caribbean coast of Costa Rica, with a decrease of precipitation between January and April, September and October.

LOCATION The Gandoca Manzanillo National Wildlife Refuge is located on the southwest of the Costa Rican Caribbean coast, between the river mouths of the Cocles and Sixaola rivers, in the province of Limòn, county of Talamanca, district of Sixaola. It belongs to the Amistad Caribe Conservation Area. The Manzanillo sector is accessed by following the Puerto Viejo road 71 km from the center of Limòn, while the sector of the Gandoca Lagoon is accessed by the road that communicates Bri-Brì with Sixaola 95 km from the center of Limòn.

ACCESS The Refuge is located 203 Km from San Josè and 71 km from the city of Limòn (Manzanillo sector). It is also possible to access it via the Gandoca sector, located 95 km from the city of Limòn, using the road communicating Bri-Bri and Sixaola.

RECOMMENDED ACTIVITIES Guided tours for the observation of the leatherback turtles spawning during the months of February through May. Observation of dolphins. Diving in the coral reef sectors. Hikes in the forest. Horseback rides. Boat trips. Bird watching. Sun, sea and beach. Kayak in the sea and creek. Visits to Indigenous Reserves. Strolls in the town

SERVICES OFFERED General information, restrooms, potable water, lunch area, access by paved road, restaurants, hotels, cabins in the vicinity and local guides.

REGULATIONS Do not bother, maltreat nor trap the wildlife. It is prohibited the extraction of plants and animals, without the official authorization. Do not drive on the beach. At Sector Punta Cocles - Punta Mona it is prohibited to ride aquatic motorbikes. Bonfires are allowed only at indicated sites. Fishing is allowed only with string and hook. Avoid walking on corals.

Al Gore - La verdad Incomoda - Calentamiento Global

2006-10-21T09:50:00.000-07:00

En el año 2000, Al Gore saltó a la palestra como candidato a la presidencia de los EEUU. Tras haber sido vicepresidente con Bill Clinton, y obtener medio millón de votos más que George Bush Jr. en los comicios, un polémico recuento le hizo perder las elecciones (para lamento de la mitad de los americanos, y de muchos más de la mitad de los que no lo somos).
Después de ello, dejó la política y organizó un espectáculo ambulante que recorría las ciudades avisando de los efectos que el cambio climático y el calentamiento global están teniendo sobre nuestro planeta.

Las charlas de Gore llamaron la atención de activistas medioambientales y de productores cinematográficos. El mensaje de Gore era que hay que hacer algo YA contra el calentamiento global. Y para ello, nada mejor que difundir sus consecuencias no a cientos de personas en una charla, sino a millones de ellas con una película. Así nació Una Verdad Incómoda.

La película tiene un blog oficial, en el que varias asociaciones como Greenpeace expresan su opinión sobre el cambio climático.
A continuación te presentamos una entrevista con Al Gore, en el que nos explica su visión sobre la situación:

-Hace tiempo que le interesa y le preocupa el tema del calentamiento global. ¿Cuál ha sido su implicación y en qué momento decidió montar un espectáculo itinerante?

Empecé a estudiar el tema a finales de los sesenta por lo que me dijo Roger Revelle, uno de mis profesores en la universidad. Participé en la organización del primer debate sobre el tema en el Congreso a finales de los setenta después de ser elegido congresista. Empecé a hablar con líderes extranjeros en los ochenta y organicé una red internacional de legisladores dedicados al tema. En mi calidad de senador estadounidense y posteriormente como vicepresidente, participé en numerosas negociaciones al respecto, como por ejemplo la Cumbre de Río de Janeiro en 1992 y el Protocolo de Kioto en 1997.
A medida que los estudios científicos confirmaban y aumentaban mi preocupación, comprendí que era necesario hacer entender la urgencia de la crisis y lo tomé como una especie de misión. Pero aún no he terminado. Cada día aprendo a comunicarme mejor y con más eficiencia acerca de este tema.

-¿Puede hablarnos del accidente de su hijo y de cómo le afectó en su particular misión?

La posibilidad de perder a un hijo fue una experiencia terriblemente dolorosa y una lección muy dura. Por ejemplo, no había entendido que uno de los secretos de la condición humana es que el sufrimiento une a las personas. Lo aprendí cuando otros que habían pasado por una experiencia tan dolorosa como la mía me hablaron, conectaron conmigo de alma a alma, de una forma que me transformó y me curó. Después entendí de un modo totalmente diferente que podíamos perder esta preciosa Tierra (o al menos su habitabilidad para los seres humanos tal como la conocemos desde hace miles de años). Creo que antes no habría podido concebirlo emocional o espiritualmente del mismo modo.

-¿Por qué cree que Participant es la productora adecuada para realizar este documental? ¿Participará en la campaña de acción social que realizan para cada película?

Jeff Skoll vino a una presentación mía. Luego hablamos de la posibilidad de hacer una película. Me impactaron sus conocimientos y su pasión. Tiene una productora única y admiro lo que hace. Y sí, participaré activamente en la campaña de acción social.

-En la película, dice que no se debe pasar de la negación a la desesperación. ¿Puede decirnos qué significa?

Nuestra civilización sigue en plena negación de categoría 5 referente al tema. Pero, poco a poco, se abren brechas en la negación y deja paso a la comprensión de que nos encontramos ante una emergencia planetaria inminente. Al mismo tiempo, no debemos creer que la crisis es demasiado grande y no puede solucionarse. Sólo falta la voluntad política, y eso es una fuerza renovable.

-En el documental habla de Una Verdad Incómoda, que también es el título. ¿Puede decirnos qué significan exactamente estas palabras?

Hay verdades que uno prefiere no oír porque si se oyen, y si se entiende que son verdades, hay que cambiar. Y el cambio puede llegar a ser muy incómodo.

-Es un tema muy urgente; sin embargo hemos perdido mucho tiempo al no querer reconocerlo. A pesar de eso, sigue luchando y tiene una actitud positiva. ¿Puede explicarnos a qué viene este optimismo?

Costa Rica General Information

2006-10-21T09:43:00.000-07:00

Area - 50,895 square kilometers Capital - San Jose (pop. 300,000)	Population - Three million Language - Spanish
Location - Central American between Nicaragua and Panama (between 8 and 11 degrees north of the equator) Currency - Colon (Floats, currently $1 US = about 240) in notes of 5,000, 1,000, 500, 100 and 50 Religion - More than 90 percent of Costa Ricans are Roman Catholic.

GANDOCA COSTA RICA - GENERAL INFORMATION

2006-10-18T14:32:00.000-07:00

GENERAL INFORMATION Gandoca Manzanillo is a National Wildlife Refuge of a mixed type. Its most important ecosystems are the yellow sand beaches and wetlands, including swamps, lagoons, inundated forests, coral reefs, banks of marine flowering plants and algae.

The combination of landscapes of land, beach, and sea, add to the local culture and make it very attractive for visitors. It protects the habitat of endangered species such as the manatee and marine turtles. To the south of Mona Point, remains the only a remnant of the rubber tree forests in the South Caribbean part of the country. The conservation and sustainable management of these ecosystems is carried in conjunction with the participation of the communities, since this is the central axis for the management of this Refuge.

In the Refuge there is only one life form: the Tropical Moist Forest which follows the general climatic pattern typical of the South Caribbean coast of Costa Rica, with a decrease of precipitation between January and April, September and October.

LOCATION The Gandoca Manzanillo National Wildlife Refuge is located on the southwest of the Costa Rican Caribbean coast, between the river mouths of the Cocles and Sixaola rivers, in the province of Limòn, county of Talamanca, district of Sixaola. It belongs to the Amistad Caribe Conservation Area. The Manzanillo sector is accessed by following the Puerto Viejo road 71 km from the center of Limòn, while the sector of the Gandoca Lagoon is accessed by the road that communicates Bri-Brì with Sixaola 95 km from the center of Limòn.

ACCESS The Refuge is located 203 Km from San Josè and 71 km from the city of Limòn (Manzanillo sector). It is also possible to access it via the Gandoca sector, located 95 km from the city of Limòn, using the road communicating Bri-Bri and Sixaola.

RECOMMENDED ACTIVITIES Guided tours for the observation of the leatherback turtles spawning during the months of February through May. Observation of dolphins. Diving in the coral reef sectors. Hikes in the forest. Horseback rides. Boat trips. Bird watching. Sun, sea and beach. Kayak in the sea and creek. Visits to Indigenous Reserves. Strolls in the town

SERVICES OFFERED General information, restrooms, potable water, lunch area, access by paved road, restaurants, hotels, cabins in the vicinity and local guides.

REGULATIONS Do not bother, maltreat nor trap the wildlife. It is prohibited the extraction of plants and animals, without the official authorization. Do not drive on the beach. At Sector Punta Cocles - Punta Mona it is prohibited to ride aquatic motorbikes. Bonfires are allowed only at indicated sites. Fishing is allowed only with string and hook. Avoid walking on corals.

ISLA DEL COCO - BUSEO EN COSTA RICA

2006-10-14T08:28:00.000-07:00

ISLA DEL COCO Parque Nacional establecido en 1978, de gran relevancia a nivel mundial. Fue declarado por la UNESCO Patrimonio Natural de la Humanidad en 1997. Ubicada en el Pacìfico, a 543 km de Cabo Blanco, la Isla del Coco es un verdadero tesoro que ha sido salvaguardado donde usted puede ingresar mar adentro para descubrir toda esa riqueza natural tan inolvidable.

Para visitar la Isla del Coco, debe contactar un tour operador que le organice su viaje. Le tomarà aproximadamente un dìa y medio llegar a la Isla, donde encontrarà servicios de anclaje, charlas, caminatas, senderos y agua potable. Gracias a las condiciones propias de su origen geològico, a su ubicaciòn geogràfica y por ser una isla oceànica, la Isla del Coco cuenta con diversidad de ambientes naturales. Su flora y fauna tanto marina como terrestre son excepcionales y aunque son parcialmente conocidas, estudios recientes han determinado que esta isla alberga aproximadamente 600 especies de moluscos marinos, 300 especies de peces y 32 especies de corales, 9 de ellos de aguas profundas. La gran cantidad de tiburones punta blanca (Triaenodon obesus y Carcharinus albimarginatus), las migraciones formadas por agrupaciones de tiburones martillo (Sphyrna lewini) en las estaciones de limpieza, los atunes (Thunnus sp.), peces loro (Scaridae), moluscos y otras variadas especies de coral, convierten a esta isla en uno de los lugares màs maravillosos para explorar.

PACIFICO CENTRAL A pocas horas de San Josè, esta zona es ideal para bucear en verano por su gran visibilidad de peces, langostas y del tiburòn punta blanca (Triaenodon obesus). Sus sentidos quedaràn maravillados al observar las impresionantes formaciones rocosas y la cueva submarina en el Parque Nacional Manuel Antonio, en donde podrà explorar las aguas de Punta Catedral, Puerto Escondido, Isla Mogote e Isla Olocuita. El acceso a esta zona puede ser por la carretera que va hacia Orotina, en un recorrido que tiene una duraciòn aproximada de 90 minutos desde San Josè.

Tambièn se puede llegar por medio de vuelos locales a las pistas de aterrizaje ubicadas en Playa Hermosa, cantòn de Garabito, y en Quepos, cantòn de Aguirre. El acceso por mar a Playa Hermosa es posible gracias a la marina localizada en Playa Herradura, mientras que el acceso a Quepos es por medio de Puerto Quepos.

PACIFICO SUR Sumèrjase en todo un jardìn submarino lleno de formaciones de coral y un colorido impresionante. El lugar de buceo màs representativo en esta zona es La Reserva Biològica Isla del Caño, ubicada aproximadamente a cuarenta y cinco minutos de Bahìa Drake en la Penìnsula de Osa, en donde encontrarà todo un ecosistema marino de difìcil comparaciòn. En este hermoso lugar podrà observar tiburones martillo (Sphyrna lewini), tiburones punta blanca (Triaenodon obesus), tiburones ballena (Rhincodon typus), manta rayas y podrà realizar su viaje junto a la agradable compañìa de los delfines y la migraciòn de las ballenas jorobadas (Megaptera novaeangliae) o yubartas, como tambièn se les llama. Estas se pueden ver casi todos los meses del año, pero su mejor època es durante el invierno del hemisferio norte del continente americano.

Un atractivo especial es que esta zona es el ùnico lugar en el mundo donde las ballenas arriban tanto del hemisferio norte como del sur en diferentes èpocas del año. Tambièn podrà explorar las Islitas Tres Hermanas y la zona marìtima protegida del Parque Nacional Marino Ballena, que alberga una gran diversidad de especies de coral. Este parque se complementa con la abundante vida marina existente, de la cual sobresalen las migraciones de ballenas jorobadas (Megaptera novaeangliae).

CARIBE SUR Acompañadas de una exuberante vegetaciòn y de la exòtica cultura caribeña, estas fantàsticas y mìsticas aguas que muy pocos han explorado, se caracterizan por su ecosistema de formaciones coralinas, protegidos por el Refugio de Vida Silvestre Gandoca Manzanillo y el Parque Nacional Cahuita. Aproximadamente a 4 horas de San Josè, los bellos paisajes marinos de Cahuita atraeràn a todos aquellos que desean descubrirlos. La profundidad de las formaciones de coral varìa desde muy pocos metros hasta formaciones de 11 metros verticales. En este gran mundo coralino, la biodiversidad està formada por màs de 123 especies de peces multicolores, como las isabelitas, el pez reina (Holacanthus sp.), el pez loro (Scaridae) y el pez erizo o cuerpo espìn (Diodontidae), entre muchos otros. Ademàs se registran màs de 35 especies de coral, las cuales abarcan desde Cuernos de Alce (Acropora palmata) hasta Corales de Cerebro (Diploria sp.).

MAS ALLA DE LAS AGUAS La pràctica del buceo en Costa Rica està rodeada de condiciones que le facilitaràn su experiencia: Empresas profesionales con servicios de tours de buceo, equipos y accesorios completos, botes especiales acondicionados para buceo y reparaciòn de equipo. Todo ello le brinda la oportunidad de traer su equipo, o bien alquilarlo, sin restar seguridad y profesionalismo. Cursos de aguas abiertas avanzado con todas sus especialidades, rescate y salvamento, primeros auxilios, oxigenoterapia, reanimaciòn cardiovascular, cursos hasta el nivel de instructor y otras especialidades de buceo para personas con discapacidad fìsica, todos reconocidos por PADI (Asociaciòn Profesional de Instructores de Buceo con sede en California, Estados Unidos), NAUI (Asociaciòn Nacional de Instructores de Buceo) y SSI (Escuela Internacional de Buceo) entre otras. Hospedaje de gran comodidad y calidad, en diversos hoteles que se adaptan a todo tipo de presupuesto. Posibilidad de otras aventuras como pesca deportiva, ràpidos en las corrientes de los rìos, tirolesa (conocida como canopy), visitas a Areas Silvestres Protegidas, observaciòn de aves, kayaking, caminatas en la montaña y muchas atracciones màs.

Es importante tomar algunas precauciones para hacer màs segura y placentera su experiencia de buceo en Costa Rica: Se recomienda buscar empresas reconocidas que representen asociaciones establecidas y operadores que cuenten con certificaciòn del I.C.T. Corrobore que las naves cuenten con todos los equipos de emergencia exigidos por ley. Esta actividad està regulada en Costa Rica por el Reglamento de Turismo de Aventura, el cual puede ser consultado en www.visitecostarica.com. En este mismo sitio puede consultar sobre los tours de buceo disponibles en Costa Rica.

Bernardo Escobar A.
Hotel Capital
Calle 4, entre Ave. 3 y 5
Tel. 506-221-8497
Fax. 506-221-8583
www.hotelcapital.org
costarica@hotelcapital.org
San Jose - Costa Rica

BUSEO EN EL CARIBE DE COSTA RICA

2006-10-14T08:27:00.000-07:00

CARIBE SUR Acompañadas de una exuberante vegetaciòn y de la exòtica cultura caribeña, estas fantàsticas y mìsticas aguas que muy pocos han explorado, se caracterizan por su ecosistema de formaciones coralinas, protegidos por el Refugio de Vida Silvestre Gandoca Manzanillo y el Parque Nacional Cahuita.

Aproximadamente a 4 horas de San Josè, los bellos paisajes marinos de Cahuita atraeràn a todos aquellos que desean descubrirlos. La profundidad de las formaciones de coral varìa desde muy pocos metros hasta formaciones de 11 metros verticales. En este gran mundo coralino, la biodiversidad està formada por màs de 123 especies de peces multicolores, como las isabelitas, el pez reina (Holacanthus sp.), el pez loro (Scaridae) y el pez erizo o cuerpo espìn (Diodontidae), entre muchos otros. Ademàs se registran màs de 35 especies de coral, las cuales abarcan desde Cuernos de Alce (Acropora palmata) hasta Corales de Cerebro (Diploria sp.).

MAS ALLA DE LAS AGUAS La pràctica del buceo en Costa Rica està rodeada de condiciones que le facilitaràn su experiencia: Empresas profesionales con servicios de tours de buceo, equipos y accesorios completos, botes especiales acondicionados para buceo y reparaciòn de equipo. Todo ello le brinda la oportunidad de traer su equipo, o bien alquilarlo, sin restar seguridad y profesionalismo. Cursos de aguas abiertas avanzado con todas sus especialidades, rescate y salvamento, primeros auxilios, oxigenoterapia, reanimaciòn cardiovascular, cursos hasta el nivel de instructor y otras especialidades de buceo para personas con discapacidad fìsica, todos reconocidos por PADI (Asociaciòn Profesional de Instructores de Buceo con sede en California, Estados Unidos), NAUI (Asociaciòn Nacional de Instructores de Buceo) y SSI (Escuela Internacional de Buceo) entre otras.

Hospedaje de gran comodidad y calidad, en diversos hoteles que se adaptan a todo tipo de presupuesto. Posibilidad de otras aventuras como pesca deportiva, ràpidos en las corrientes de los rìos, tirolesa (conocida como canopy), visitas a Areas Silvestres Protegidas, observaciòn de aves, kayaking, caminatas en la montaña y muchas atracciones màs.

Es importante tomar algunas precauciones para hacer màs segura y placentera su experiencia de buceo en Costa Rica: Se recomienda buscar empresas reconocidas que representen asociaciones establecidas y operadores que cuenten con certificaciòn del I.C.T. Corrobore que las naves cuenten con todos los equipos de emergencia exigidos por ley.

Esta actividad està regulada en Costa Rica por el Reglamento de Turismo de Aventura, el cual puede ser consultado en www.visitecostarica.com. En este mismo sitio puede consultar sobre los tours de buceo disponibles en Costa Rica.

PESCA COSTA RICA

2006-10-12T11:28:00.000-07:00

BIENVENIDO A BORDO! Gracias a su gran diversidad de fauna marina, Costa Rica se ha convertido en todo un ùcono en el deporte de la pesca, el cual reporta mas de 3 rècords 'Grand Slam' por año. Esto le otorga el privilegio de ser sede de importantes torneos que cuentan con gran reconocimiento. Algunos de ellos son el Torneo Nacional de Pez Vela, Torneo Internacional de Pez Vela, Torneo Abierto de Pez Vela para Mujeres, 'Los Sueños Signature Billfish Series' y 'Presidential Channel', que se realizan durante el transcurso del año.

Desde la costa Pacùfica, hasta la exòtica costa caribeña, usted encontrara gran cantidad de sorprendentes especies, para que elija cual de todas sera la presa y dònde tirara su anzuelo.

TODO LISTO PARA LA PESCA Llegar a sus destinos de pesca preferidos es posible gracias a los vuelos directos de Estados Unidos a San Josè y Guanacaste; tambièn tiene la opciòn de desplazarse por vùa terrestre a las zonas costeras. En cada punto de pesca, tendra a su disposiciòn hoteles, equipos de pesca, guùas y botes, para que usted haga su viaje ya sea por cuenta propia o con operadores especializados, quienes promueven y practican la liberaciòn de la mayorìa de las especies (atrapalo y libèralo) contribuyendo con la conservaciòn y el ecoturismo. La marina existente cuenta con todos los servicios de electricidad, agua potable, telèfonos, seguridad, succiòn de desechos, servicio de mantenimiento y reparaciòn de botes, ademas de pequeñas embarcaciones y motos acuaticas. Tambièn existe la opciòn de los atracaderos.

En algunos lugares especializados puede solicitar que le fabriquen sus señuelos. Segùn la regiòn podràn encontrar campos de golf y otras actividades que complementaran su viaje de forma ideal.

PACIFICO NORTE Excelente zona para disfrutar de una buena y consistente pesca a lo largo del año. Sobre todo si lo que quiere es una cita con el marlin; este es uno de los mejores lugares para capturarlo. Usted no tendra que esperar mucho para lanzarse al mar, ya que esta zona cuenta con facil acceso, gracias a los vuelos directos del aeropuerto Internacional Daniel Oduber en Liberia y/o conexiones procedentes de los Estados Unidos. De esta forma, estara en una hora o dos en los diferentes sitios desde donde puede zarpar. Ademas, cuenta con la oportunidad de llegar mediante vuelos internos o por carretera desde el Pacùfico Central o San Josè.

Los principales puntos donde podra disfrutar de la pesca deportiva en esta regiòn son: Playas del Coco y Ocotal que se ubican a 30 minutos del Aeropuerto Internacional de Liberia; Tamarindo, Samara y Carrillo que estan aproximadamente a una hora y media de dicho aeropuerto. Ademas hay pistas de aterrizaje para vuelos locales en Tamarindo, Nosara y Carrillo.

PACIFICO CENTRAL Complementada por la belleza natural de los Parques Nacionales Carara y Manuel Antonio, esta zona le ofrece la oportunidad de disfrutar intensamente en sus centros de actividad pesquera. En Playa Herradura encontrara una Marina, con los servicios y condiciones para todos los amantes de este apasionante deporte. Entre algunos de los servicios que la marina pone a su disposiciòn estan los 250 embarcaderos, suministro de combustible y reparaciones, un dique seco que posee una grùa para soportar hasta 10 toneladas, lo que la hace ideal para guardar los jet skis o pequeños botes recreativos. La marina tambièn esta equipada con internet, telèfono, centro comercial, servicios bancarios, renta de autos, ademas de los equipos para emergencias, electricidad y suministro de agua potable. La cercanùa de esta zona con el aeropuerto Internacional Juan Santamarùa le hara llegar aproximadamente en una hora a estos puntos. En el caso de que se encuentre en Guanacaste, tambièn tendra acceso por vùa aèrea o terrestre.

PACIFICO SUR Descienda a los maravillosos rincones de Costa Rica y encuentre importantes centros de operaciones para la pesca como: Drake, Puerto Jimènez, Zancudo, Golfo Dulce y Golfito, siendo este ùltimo, el principal puerto de la zona donde puede encontrar las facilidades que su viaje requiera. Esta zona cuenta con pistas de aterrizaje en Golfito, Drake, Coto 47 y Palmar Sur, que brindan acceso por medio de vuelos internos desde San Josè y/o conexiones.

CARIBE NORTE Viva una experiencia inolvidable en la zona del Caribe, donde encontrara especies muy diferentes a los peces que habitan la costa Pacùfica tales como el Robalo. Ademas, mientras se divierte en la practica de este deporte, podra admirar la exuberante naturaleza y el paisaje natural Ãºnico, que ofrece el Caribe costarricense. Esta regiòn dispone de facilidades de hospedaje en hoteles que ofrecen paquetes completos. Incluyen tours a las zonas de pesca y el transporte desde San Josè, ya sea aèreo o por medio de embarcaciones a travès de los canales. De esta forma, usted podrà comprobar la cantidad y diversidad de especies que hay en los rùos, canales, en la Barra del Colorado y en la Barra del Parismina.

VARIEDAD DE ESPECIES En la variedad esta el gusto. Usted puede escoger entre las mùltiples alternativas para pescar, ya sea en agua salada, como en los rùos, lagos o canales de agua dulce del Pacùfico o del Caribe. El Lago Arenal es el mas popular para la pesca del Guapote ,que tambièn se puede pescar en el Lago Coter, la Laguna de Hule, Congo en Sarapiqui , Lago Rìo Cuarto en Grecia, Laguna Bonilla en Turrialba y Caño Negro en los Chiles, en donde la actividad en los ùltimos años ha venido en crecimiento. En Caño Negro tambièn podra pescar el Gaspar famoso por su boca de lagarto y cuerpo de pez ,que es conocido como una de las especies mas antiguas de nuestro continente .

Los expertos le conocen como el fòsil viviente y por ello su pesca tiene algunas restricciones. Si lo que busca es una experiencia familiar, en varios puntos del paùs encontrara pequeños hoteles y lugares dedicados a la pesca en laguitos artificiales. Estos sitios, ademas de tener especies como las tilapias en zonas calidas y las truchas en zonas frùas, ofrecen la preparaciòn de platillos ahù mismo, para completar de forma ideal el momento familiar.

Bernardo Escobar A.
Hotel Capital
Calle 4, entre Ave. 3 y 5
Tel. 506-221-8497
Fax. 506-221-8583
www.hotelcapital.org
costarica@hotelcapital.org
San Jose - Costa Rica

COSTA RICAGENERAL INFORMATION

2006-10-10T12:58:00.000-07:00

Within Costa Rica 51,200 square kilometers there is a wider variety of species of birds than in all of Europe or North America. With a relatively small population of roughly three and a half million inhabitants, Costa Rica also boasts of one of the oldest and more consolidated democracies in Latin America.

In 1869, primary education for both sexes was declared obligatory and free of cost, defrayed by the State. In 1882 the death sentence was abolished. In the 1949 the armed forces were abolished and in 1983 Perpetual Neutrality was proclaimed. Prestigious international human rights organizations have their headquarters in Costa Rica. Because of this, and of its lush 1500 kilometers of tropical sun-bathed beaches and the wild diversity of flora and fauna to be found in its wide array of microclimates (most present in one or more of its National Parks), Costa Rica has justifiably earned its reputation of paradise regained.

Climate Costa Rica's microclimates vary from the barren cold volcanic tundra to the exotic cloud forest, from the deep dense jungle of Talamanca to the tropical dry forests of Guanacaste, from quiet gold-hued beaches where the Baulas Tortoises build their nests to the winding Tortuguero Canals where the crocodile is king. Even so, Costa Rica's overall climate can be best described as mild. Being located within the tropics, seasonal changes in Costa Rica are not as dramatic as they are in countries on other latitudes. There is a 'dry" season (equivalent to summer and spring) during which temperatures hover pleasantly in the high 60 to low 70 (20 - 23 degrees C), which goes from December to May, and a "wet" season from June to November during which mornings are usually sunny and showers might be expected in the afternoon.

On areas near the coasts, temperatures may be as much as ten degrees higher, where as at Chirripo Peak, the highest mountain in Costa Rica (3800 meters), temperatures may drop down to the freezing point.

Tourists should bring light clothes: a jacket and a raincoat is all the protection you'll need unless you plan to go hiking in the higher mountains. Time Costa Rica is six hours behind Greenwich Mean Time (GMT), which is equivalent to Central Time in North America. There is no daylight saving time.

Language Costa Rica's official language is Spanish. On the Caribbean Coast a small minority of Jamaican descendants speak a local version of English, and most Costa Ricans can understand and speak a bit of English. Quite recently all public schools made mandatory the learning of a second language.

Religion As in the rest of Latin America, Roman Catholicism is Costa Rica main religion, but there is a very wide margin of tolerance and the constitutional freedom of creed is always respected. Costa Rica religions by percentage of practicing members: Roman Catholic 76.3%, Evangelical 13.7%, Jehovah's Witnesses 1.3%, other Protestant 0.7%, other 4.8%, none 3.2%.

Legal System Costa Rica is a civil law country which means that the organization of the legal system is derived from the French Napoleonic Code as opposed to English common law. The Government of Costa Rica has 4 branches: The Judicial, Executive - President and cabinet ministers, Legislative - Elected members and Electoral Tribunal - takes over police and all government functions dealing with elections before each election. Members are usually unpaid volunteers who are judges. This is to ensure all elections are completely democratic and free.

Currency The national currency is the colon and dollars are easily exchanged at all banks, other foreign currency can be exchanged through private agencies. All mayor credit cards as well as travelers checks are widely accepted. The colon exchanges at 519 per dollar (as of October 2006) and can be expected to increment by 0,17 on average per day.

Electricity The standard in Costa Rica is the same as in the United States: 110 volts AC (60 cycles). However, three-pronged outlets can be scarce, so it's helpful to bring along an adapter.

Business Hours Most banks are open Monday through Friday from 9am to 3:30pm, although many have begun to offer extended hours. Offices are open Monday through Friday from 8am to 5pm (many close for 1 hr. at lunch). Stores are generally open Monday through Saturday from 9am to 6pm (many close for 1 hr. at lunch).

Communications There are postal and telegraph offices in cities and villages throughout the country. The Central Post Office is located in San Jose on Second Street between Avenues 1 and 3, and is open Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Saturdays from 7 a.m. to 12 noon. Radiografica Costarricense is located on Fifth Avenue between Streets 1 and 3. This company provides telex, fax, international data transmission, and many other services (including Internet access). The country code for Costa Rica is 506, and there is no area code inside the country.

Transportation International Air Transportation: Most air traffic to and from Costa Rica is handled through the Juan SantamarÃa Airport, located 29 minutes from San Jose, in the city of Alajuela.

Domestic Air Transportation: All flights leave from the International Juan Santamaria Airport or the Toias Bolaños Airport. There is a network of internal airports which not only serve important cities, but special interest tourist areas. Among the most important are: Liberia, Palmar Sur, Tamarindo, Barra del Colorado, Limon, Quepos, Golfito, Coto 47, etc. From the Tobias Bolaños Airport, located to the west of the capital city, private airlines offer flights to most areas of the country.

Domestic Bus Service: The country, in general, offers adequate bus service. The majority are private companies which link San Jose with the principal provincial towns and cities, seaports and tourist areas. With good-quality vehicles and frequent itineraries, the user can easily travel by bus throughout the country. In the main cities and villages nationwide, there are taxicab companies that service the user to the more remote places in the country. Four-wheel drive vehicles are typical for the rural areas. International Bus Service: Leaving from San Jose, there is bus service to Central America and Panama. The companies: TICA BUS, SIRCA and TRACOPA have scheduled trips to Panama, Nicaragua and other countries.

Automobile Circulation: Costa Rica has a good highway network, the majority of which, for tourist use, is paved. In most places there are adequate traffic signs. In the major highways there are toll booths (San Jose-San Ramon, San Jose-Gua¡piles, San JosÃe-Cartago, San Jose-Ciudad Colon). Throughout the country there are many gas stations, some of which offer round-the-clock service. Costa Rica does not have self-service gas stations.

Driver Requirements: A foreigner may drive with a current license from his country of origin and his passport, during the three months that his tourist visa is valid. Warning triangles should be carried at all times by all drivers, and seat belts are also required for drivers and front-seat passengers. The use of helmets for motorcycle conductors is required.

Entry/Exit Requirements With a valid passport and round trip or continuing ticket, citizens of the United States of America, Canada, Germany, Spain and Italy can travel to Costa Rica for a 90-day stay without a consular visa. To stay legally beyond the period granted, travelers will need to submit an application for an extension to the Office of Temporary Permits in the Costa Rican Department of Immigration. Tourist visas are usually not extended except under special circumstances, such as academic, employment, or medical grounds, and extension requests are evaluated on a case-by-case basis. There is a departure tax for short-term visitors. Tourists who stay over ninety days without receiving a formal extension can expect to pay a higher departure tax at the airport or land border, and may experience some delay at the airport. Persons who have overstayed previously may be denied entry to Costa Rica.

Vaccinations As of this time, Costa Rica does not require visitors to have any particular vaccinations, although you should make sure that all your normal vaccinations are up to date.

Medical Facilities & Services Any foreigner who is temporarily in the country has the right to receive health attention at hospitals and clinics in case of an emergency, sudden illness or a chronic disease. Costa Rica boasts a modern and renown medical health system, under the administration of the Caja Costarricense de Seguro Social (CCSS)

Mmore information Emergencies Costa Rica has a 911 system for reporting emergencies. Crimes that are no longer in progress should be reported in person at the nearest police station. In the event of a traffic accident, vehicles must be left where they are, and not moved out of the way. Both the Transito (Traffic Police) and the Insurance Investigator must make accident reports before the vehicles are moved. Although sometimes slow to respond after notification, these officials will come to the accident scene.

Emergency telephone numbers:

Emergencies . . . . . . ....................................... 911 (Metropolitan area)

Fire Department and Rescue Units. . . . ........ . .118

Traffic Police. . . . ............................................ .222-9330/ 222-9245

Police Department . . ....................................... .117

Rural Police Department ...................................127

Red Cross . . . . . ............................................. .128

Airports Juan Santamaria International Airport Phone: 441-0744.

Limon International Airport . Phone: 758-1379

Tobias Bolaños International Airport. Phone: 232-2820

Daniel Oduber Quiros International Airport (Liberia, Guanacaste) . Phone: 666-0695

COSTA RICA GUANACASTE PROVINCE INFORMATION

2006-10-09T12:16:00.000-07:00

North Guanacaste harbors an important portion of the costa rican cultural and natural patrimony. Not in vain there is a significant number of protected areas, including coastal, mountainous, terrestrial, and aquatic ecosystems, where life develops with exuberance.

It is situated in the northern part of the country, and covers the pacific coast of Costa Rica, since the limit with Nicaragua to Punta Cerritos, located 22 km. west from de city of Santa Cruz. It covers an extension of approximately 100 km. of the Pacific Coast. In the past, this region has had its natural vocation in the cattle raising and in the agriculture. Currently, nevertheless, the incomparable beauty of its landscapes, that go from the tropical dry forest to the forest montano low and its hot climate, as well as its fertile nature, have done of Guanacaste one of the most concurred places by the local and international tourism.

Besides an important backup in the Pole of Tourist Development of the Papagayo Gulf, there is the Daniel Oduber International, where a large quantity of flights arrives charter and regular flights from the United States. North Guanacaste has two main tourist centers that are Liberia (central of stopover distribution, scale and excursion) and Santa Cruz, and three other tourist centers: El Coco, Tamarindo and Flamingo. The landscape of the coast is exceptional. There are beaches of white sands and a peaceful sea qualified by intense blue, especially the ones located inside Papagayo Gulf (Nacascolo, Virador, Iguanita and Panama). It is one of the regions of greater development, based on hotels of high investment with potentiality of direct demand.

ACTIVITIES The possible tourist activities to develop are diverse; they can relate to the vacation, the health, the culture, adventure and nature thus with recreational and sports aspects.

HORSEBACK RIDING A pastoral region, Guanacaste offers this activity in coastal areas and in the mountains and their communities. Horseback-riding tours are available through tourism operators or family-owned farms that rent horses.

HIKING There is no end to the diversity of hiking options available for observing various natural, historical, architectural, cultural, religious and commercial attractions.

RECREATIONAL CYCLING The region offers a variety of picturesque roads and adventure or leisure sites that allow touring on regular or mountain bikes. Beaches and mountains are among the most interesting riding destinations.

ARCHITECTURAL AND HISTORIC SITES There are sites and buildings of architectural or historic interest and National Monuments that are considered must-see places, mainly in Abangares, Bagaces, CaÑas, Liberia, Santa Cruz and Nicoya.

CUISINE Typical towns are characterized by sodas (small restaurants serving local food), cafes and restaurants where visitors can sample the cuisine of Guanacaste. Cañas, Tilaran, Liberia and mainly Santa Cruz stand out as communities with traditions in typical food and drink.

BIRD-WATCHING Bird-watching is possible mainly in protected areas. Many sites offer the opportunity to get with the birds, with Palo Verde, Cura, Isla Bolaños and Tenorio among the biggest.

TREETOP ADVENTURES There are several options for visitors to observe the goings-on in the forest canopy, including various monkey and bird species.

PHOTOGRAPHY This is a most popular tourist activity owing to Guanacaste climatic conditions and wealth of flora and fauna, as well as its varied natural, cultural and architectural landscapes.

DIVING This adventure or recreational activity is becoming more and more popular in Guanacaste, thanks to its excellent dive sites and the specialized companies that normally offer services abroad. Important sites include the Gulf of Papagayo and the Santa Catalina islands.

SHOPPING FOR HANDICRAFTS The handicrafts of Guaitil de Santa Cruz and San Vicente de Nicoya are made of pure clay using the traditional and ancient techniques of the Chorotega indigenous group. Ornaments, urns, flowerpots, vases, plates, decorative whistles and other figures are fashioned and may be bought for their fine finish and interest in several parts of Guanacaste. Visitors can also acquire other kinds of handicrafts fashioned out of caro (a kind of gourd) or the thipa plant, from which various paper products are made.

SPORT-FISHING This is one of the Northern Pacific region main attractions. Artisan and recreational fishing are possible, but of greater interest are the tournaments in which several world billfish records have been broken. The fish are returned to the water after weigh-in.

!PURA VIDA!

2006-10-07T12:38:00.000-07:00

The phrase that embodies the Tico lifestyle is Pura Vida, literally translated as Pure Life, meaning roughly "Cool!" Friends often greet or salute each other with Pura vida mae (or Pure life, dude, which could be rendered as "Cool, dude!") This all-encompassing statement is used by many Costa Ricans (and expatriates) to refer to the free spirit and love for life of this tropical country. Also refers to the state of something going really well or being very positive. See uses below.

Costa Ricans' views of foreigners

2006-10-07T12:37:00.000-07:00

Visitors from the United States, are normally refered to as Gringos, but without any ill-will as in other Latin American countries. For Costa Ricans, the word Gringo is just an easy way to brand Americans. Americans are the main tourists coming to Costa Rica. In some groups, they are seen as the cause of rising prices and globalization. Nevertheless, the majority of Costa Ricans consider the United States a friend and an ally; out of all nations south of its border, the U.S. probably enjoys the highest approval ratings in Costa Rica.

Canadians and Europeans are becoming more common in the country and are normally seen as separate than Americans. However they are expected to communicate in English if not Spanish, other languages like French or German are not widely spoken.

Nicaraguans have a mixed opinion in Costa Rica. Because many of the Nicaraguans that eventually immigrate to the country are economically lower class citizens, an unfair prejudice towards all Nicaraguans exists. Part of this is due to massive media misrepresentation of Nicaraguans, attributing them responsibility for rising crime rates. However, most Costa Ricans, relate commonly to Nicaraguans, so few harbor any ill will to them. Also they are essential for the countries economic prosperity. In the end most of the misunderstandings between Costa Ricans and Nicaraguans, is due to Costa Rican, "choteo" and Nicaraguans not being used to it.

Education in Costa rica

2006-10-07T12:36:00.000-07:00

Education is highly regarded in Costa Rica by most of the population. A 6% of the countries resources are dedicated to education and it has proven to have positive results as > 95% of the population is literate.

Primary (1st-6th grade) and secondary (7th-11th or 12th) are free and mandatory for all citizens. However, primary and secondary public education is widely considered to lack the quality and resources seen in private elementary schools, therefore most of the middle-higher class population, opt to send their children to private institutions.

At the university level, the country has four major public universities: The University of Costa Rica (UCR), the Instituo Technologico (TEC), The Universidad Nacional (UNA) and the Universidad de Educacion a Distancia (UNED), this last institution is a correspondence institution. Most of the national universities have institutional autonomy and considerable budgets, that have allowed them to become some of the major universities in Central America, however most Costaricans are unaware of this.

However, the four main universities are not able to keep up with the demand of the growing population, therefore a great variety of private institutions began to appear in the country. Despite this boom in private investment, private institutions are still fighting for the prestige mainly associated to public universities, and most Costa Ricans when asked will have a more positive opinion if someone graduated from a public university.

Because of the interest in education, most Costa Ricans firmly believe in education as a way to improve their life.

... Living in Costa Rica ...

2006-10-06T13:27:00.000-07:00

Escaping the rat race and going to live in Paradise, it sounds interesting... Longing to visit splendid beaches and rain forests. Wanting to live comfortably on a not-so-abundant pension. Setting up a succesful business in an investment-welcoming country. Do any of these reasons for moving to Costa Rica sound familiar to you? If you have goals similar to these, then it's probably a good idea that you become better acquainted with reality so that you can assess your dreams.

Costa Rica is Central America's second smallest country (19653 sq.miles)bordering Nicaragua on the North and Panama on the South. It boasts several micro-climates and ecosystems, but its weather conditions are summarized by two seasons: rainy and dry. This tropical country contains emerald-green rainforests as well as paradisiacal beaches. When considering living in this country, however, one must take into consideration a lot more aspects than just its natural allure.

The money issue is of course, one of the main practicalities that must be taken into account. Costa Rica's economic and political situation are extremely stable, especially when comparing it to surrounding countries. Investment opportunities include ornamental plants & flowers, agriculture and livestock, tourism, real estate or any of several activities that has plenty of demand but not enough supply. Many foreigners seek employment, but they must realize that for the most part, salaries are low, and that if they have initiative and drive, they should consider establishing their own venture. Income tax collection has improved in the last few years, but only income that is produced locally is taxed.

The cost of living in Costa Rica is not a straightforward issue. A couple may live frugally at $800 to $1000 a month, which means riding buses, renting a small house and not indulging in trips or other luxuries. A more comfortable living standard requires $2000 a month for a couple. Some things such as utilities, local foods and products are cheap, while most imported goods are extremely expensive.

Apart from investing and a reasonable cost of living, Costa Rica offers other advantages: impressive health and educational systems, widespread communications (phone,internet, cable,t.v.), friendly people, abundant transportation means, mild weather, etc. Among the obvious cons to living in this country are: bureaucracy, corruption, potholes in the streets and an increase in crimes such as theft. The best strategy for determining if the pros outweigh the cons, is to move to Costa Rica for at least a six month period, and to try out reality in a foreign country.

Foreign visitors may eventually decide to become residents, in which case they must seek legal and economic advice in order to acquire the desired status. They must also visit the ICT or Tourism Bureau and the Association of Retired or Earning Residents.

Even if potholes and other negative aspects win over excellent business opportunities and great beaches, most foreigners will agree that an extended visit to Costa Rica can mean anything from a relaxing vacation, to a chance to live a peaceful existence in a beautiful country.

www.hotelcapital.org

San Jose Costa Rica - Information

2006-10-06T08:11:00.000-07:00

San Jose offers many interesting attractions to entertain visitors. There are several museums; the National Theater, a centennial architectural jewel depicting the cultural level of this society, churches, parks, and an active nightlife featuring elegant gourmet restaurants and entertainment areas, including casinos, sports bars and more. Shopping is a must in the area, with shops and artisans displaying their work in selected areas of the city. If the thrill of the hunt for that perfect souvenir is just as exciting for you as bungee jumping, then Costa Rica won't disappoint. And you certainly can work up a sweat walking from shop to shop if you like to get your exercise in a little more sedate way than climbing mountains. San Jose has a little bit of everything to buy. You'll find the standard tourist fare like T-shirts and postcards. All manner of books have been written about this country, many of which make great souvenirs. Music stores have a wide selection of recorded music by local artists. And then there's the distinctive art and handicrafts made by local, indigenous and international artisans.

San Jose is the perfect gateway to access not only the Central Valley but the entire country as well. Its cosmopolitan concept has turned the city into a mirror of the country's culture, something clearly demonstrated in the excellent museum network that surrounds the city's perimeter. Historical buildings and industrial complexes from the past have been transformed into houses of art, science and social achievements. A former prison, a transformed airport terminal, a fortress housing the country's history, an old liquor factory-constructions from the past that today, as museums, preserve the heritage of the Costa Rican people. Even though the builders of these structures never considered the possibility of them housing museums, the truth is that some of the most important museums in San Jose operate today within buildings that range from prisons to airports, adding more value to visitors interest.
The relatively small size of San Jose and the good location of its museums make it possible for visitors to tour the city's museums on foot in one day, either alone or with a guide who will enlighten the circuit with proper comments and historical facts. San Jose Costa Rica

The Costa Rican Art Museum located at Parque La Sabana, is a good start from the west side of the city. Several art collections depict the best of the fine arts created in Costa Rica throughout history, with the work of national masters in techniques such as water color, oil, and sculpture.
The excellently preserved building used to be the city's international airport. It recreates an atmosphere resembling the 1950's architectural style. The museum is open Tue-Sun 9:00 a.m., 5:00 p.m.
One of the capital's real gems is the National Museum (Museo Nacional), housed in the 114-year-old Bellavista Fortress, a former army barracks that sports a few bullet holes in its towers. But not to worry. Costa Rica has no more army and the building's central courtyard, overlooking the Plaza de la Democracia, is one of the most peaceful settings in the center of the crowded city. San Jose Costa Rica
With one of the country's most active research facilities and educational programs, the National Museum is one of those "little bit of everything" places. It really shines when it comes to Costa Rica's indigenous heritage and enviromental exhibits. (Calle 17, Ave. Central /2; open Tue-Sun 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m.)
The imposing castle-like buil-ding just north of downtown houses the Children's Museum (Museo del Niño). Believe it or not, this used to be the city's prison.(Ave. 9, Calle 4; open Tue-Fri 8 a.m., 3 p.m., Sat-Sun 10 a.m., 4 p.m.) San Jose Costa Rica

At another museum nearby, all that glitters is gold. The Gold Museum (Museo de Oro), below the Plaza de la Cultura, is part of a complex of museums operated by Costa Rica's Central Bank.
The museum's vaults showcase yet another collection of pre-Columbian art. Among these displays, 2,300 pieces of gold jewelry, armored plates, and objects of religious devotion can be admired and studied. (Calle 5, Ave. Central/2; open Tue-Sun 10 a.m., 4:30 p.m.)
Costa Rica's venue for modern art is the Contemporary Art and Design Museum (Museo del Dise-o y Arte Contempo-raneo). Facing Parque Nacional, it is housed in the large arts complex known as the National Cultural Center (Centro Nacional de Cultura) which was once part of the National Liquor Factory. Fittingly, the Ministry of Culture has its offices in this complex, too. (Ave. 3, Calle 15/17; open Tue-Sat 10 a.m.-5 p.m.)
All city museums charge an admission fee. Inquire at the entrance area for rates and discounts for children.

Into the Central Valley: San Jose Costa Rica

Costa Rica's Central Valley has a lot to offer. If handicrafts and souvenirs are at stake, then a trip to Sarchi is a must. Widely known for its woodcrafts, the Sarchi area is a blessing for those in search of a famous hand-painted ox- cart and many other wooden designs including beautiful artistically carved doors.
The good thing about Sarchi is that one can visit the shops and admire the artists at work. Painting or carving delicate pieces featuring tropical designs ranging from birds to colonial settings, they use a wonderfully varied color palette.
If nature is what visitors are after, then San Jose is a key stop while in the country's Central Valley. From the city it is easy to join a one day tour to one of the two main volcanoes that overlook, from the distance, the country's capital. Poas Volcano is located in the northwestern area of the Central Valley, while Irazu Volcano is located to the northeast. In fact, a tour to Sarchi, sitting on the slopes of Poas can also combine with a visit to this semi-dormant smoky giant. A one-day tour can perfectly combine both destinations.

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Working on Costa rica - a history

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Jenny thought that it was going to be the most unforgettable teaching experience in her life. Coming to Costa Rica to teach was going to top off four years of hard work at college, and it was going to enrich her cultural and language horizons incredibly. Well, the experience was certainly unforgettable, and it certainly expanded her horizons, but it did so in an unexpected way. You see, Jenny didn't think about the catcalls from men that she was going to receive on her 1-mile walk to the bus station every morning, or on having to take her dirty clothes to a laundry on a cab, or on having to watch her expenses because of a meager salary. Finally, Jenny decided that she had had enough "enrichment" for a while, so she went home six-months before expected.

Bob came down to Costa Rica to surf. He thought that it was going to be just another memory of great surf points, parties at local bars and traveling in a beautiful country. He did surf at great points, party hard and traveled plenty, but he had no idea about what was going to happen. When he started running out of money and still didn't feel like going home, Bob met another American tourist who mentioned the possibility of settling down in Costa Rica an opening a surf shop in Jacó, a popular beach town in the Pacific coast. They did, and four years later, Bob and his buddy run a successful business where they sell, rent and fix boards and other sport's gear.

Both cases are real and common, and they reflect the difference between expectations and outcomes of a plan to work in Costa Rica. Many foreigners choose Costa Rica as an exotic possibility for working overseas. Some, like Bob the surfer, stumble into it. There are several things that a foreigner must consider before deciding to work in this country. The three main considerations are: common jobs for foreigners, salaries and last but not least, cost of living.

Foreigners must do one of two things to be able to work here: get a work permit through the employer or apply for residency, preferably through a lawyer. The work permit must be renewed every year. The most common jobs for young foreigners are: teaching English, at $300- $500 a month (sometimes more in an American bilingual school), being tourist guides or working as receptionists in hotels. However, some people with a larger resume might be able to find jobs through multinational companies that operate here, such as Standard Fruit, Intel, Motorola, etc. Upper management positions usually demand good or excellent knowledge of Spanish and offer salaries starting at $2000, which is good for Costa Rica. Other jobs might be found simply by looking in the local English-language newspaper, The Tico Times, the main Spanish-language newspapers, or even while browsing through the yellow pages. Apart from salaried jobs, foreigners might prefer to settle down and open up a business of their own. If the business proves to be relatively successful, the earnings will probably be much greater than normal salaries. Business opportunities include: real estate, the hotel and tourist sector, the food franchise business, etc

After considering possible jobs and salaries, it's important to consider the cost of living in Costa Rica. Rent for one person at an average tico apartment might cost $250 to $400. Groceries might cost from $150 to $200 a month, while entertainment (going out at least once a week) might end up costing $140 a month. Some expenses are much more reasonable than in other countries, like utility bills; water, electricity and local phone bills for one person might be as cheap as $ 25 a month (the cheapest is water, followed by electricity).

There are also legal and cultural considerations involved in working in Costa Rica It's important to have a realistic view of the whole picture, before making a commitment. Unless you acquire a job with a multinational company, which can guide you through the excitement and confusion of moving to another country, it's probably a good idea to visit Costa Rica on a scouting mission before deciding to get a job here. Look through newspaper ads, ask other foreigners, visit some companies, and you'll see that when moving here later, things will be much easier and more enjoyable.

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A Brief History of Costa Rica

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Human habitation can be traced back more than 10,000 years but it appears Costa Rica was sparsely populated and a relative backwater in the pre-Columbian era. There is little sign of major communities and none of the impressive stone architecture that characterized the more advanced civilizations of Mesoamerica to the north and the Andes to the south. When Columbus arrived near Lim¢n on September 18, 1502 on his third and last voyage to the Americas, there were probably no more than 20,000 indigenous inhabitants They lived in several autonomous tribes, all with distinct cultures and customs. Costa Rica's only major archaeological site is at Guayabo, 30 miles east of San Jos, where an ancient city, dating back to 1000 B.C. and though to have contained 10,000 people at its peak, is currently being excavated. Many interesting gold, jade and pottery artefacts have been found throughout the region and are on display in several museums in San Jose.

The Indians gave Columbus gold and he returned to Europe with reports of a plentiful supply of the yellow metal. But the adventurers who arrived to cash in found only hostile Indians, swamps and disease for their trouble. Several early attempts to colonize the Atlantic coast failed for the same reasons and for almost half a century Costa Rica was passed over while colonization gathered pace in countries to the north and south. In 1562, the Spanish main's administrative center in Guatemala sent Juan Vasquez de Coronado to Costa Rica as governor and Cartago was established as the capital the following year. With no Indian slaves to work the land, the colonists were forced to work the land themselves, scratching out a meagre subsistence by tilling small plots. The impoverished colony grew slowly and was virtually ignored by the Spanish rulers in Guatemala. By the late 18th century, the settlements that would buela had been founded and exports of wheat and tobacco were making economic conditions somewhat better.

Central America gained independence from Spain on September 15, 1821. The news reached Costa Rica a month after the event. The question of whether Costa Rica should join newly independent Mexico or join a new confederation of Central American states resulted in a bitter quarrel between the leaders of San Jose and their counterparts in Cartago and Heredia. A brief civil war in 1823 was won by San Jose and Costa Rica joined the confederation.

Juan Mora Fernandez was elected the country's first head of state in 1824. His progressive administration expanded public education and encouraged the cultivation of coffee with land grants for growers. This quickly led to the establishment of a new Costa Rican elite, the coffee barons, who quickly put their power to use by overthrowing the first Costa Rican president, Jos Maria Castro. His successor, Juan Rafael Mora, is remembered as the man who mobilized a force of Costa Rican volunteers and defeated William Walker, ending the persistent North American adventurer's ambitions to turn Central America into a slave state and annex it to the United States.

After more than a decade of political turmoil, General Tom s Guardia seized power in 1870. Though he ruled as a military dictator, his 12 years in power were marked by progressive policies like free and compulsory primary education, restraining the excesses of the military and taxing coffee earnings to finance public works. It was Guardia who contracted Minor Keith to build the Atlantic railroad from San Jose to the Caribbean. The post-Guardia years witnessed the fitful transition to full democracy.

The next important era began with the election of Dr. Rafael Angel Calder¢n Guardia in 1940. His enlightened policies included land reform, a guaranteed minimum wage and progressive taxation. But when Calder¢n's United Social Christian Party refused to step down after losing the 1948 election, civil war erupted. The anti-Calder¢n forces were led by Jose Mar¡a (Don Pepe) Figueres Ferrer who had been exiled to Mexico in 1942. Supported by the governments of Guatemala and Cuba, he won the war which lasted 40 days and cost 2,000 lives.

Figueres became head of the Founding Junta of the Second Republic of Costa Rica. He consolidated the reforms introduced by Calder¢n and introduced many of his own: He banned the Communist Party, gave women the vote and granted full citizenship to blacks, abolished the armed forces, established a term limit for presidents and nationalized the banks and insurance companies. He also founded the Partido de Liberacion Nacional. (The PLN won last year's presidential election behind Don Pepe's son, now President Jose Mar¡a Figueres Olsen.

Don Pepe died in 1990 a national hero, his deeds having set the scene for the social and economic progress that would earn Costa Rica the reputation as a peaceful and stable island of democracy in one of the world's most politically unstable, and often war-torn regions. When civil war broke out in neighboring Nicaragua, Costa Rica was drawn reluctantly into the conflict, its northern zone being used as a base first for Sandinista and later for "contra" forces. In 1986, a young lawyer called Oscar Arias Sanchez was elected president on the platform of peace. Arias' tireless efforts to promote peace in the region were rewarded when the five Central American presidents signed his peace plan in Guatamala City in 1987, an achievement that earned him the Nobel Peace Prize.

Travel Documents in Costa Rica

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Citizens of the U.S., Canada and Panama may enter Costa Rica with a tourist card and one other piece of identification e.g. passport, driver's license or birth certificate. Tourist cards can be obtained in advance from any Costa Rican embassy or consulate and are valid for 30 days. No passport or visa is needed. If you want to stay longer, a valid passport allows Canadians and Americans to stay for up to 90 days. Citizens of all other countries require a valid passport to enter Costa Rica. You are required to carry your passport or tourist card with you at all times. If you are stopped by officials, a photocopy with your photo, passport number and entry stamp will usually suffice.

Travelers arriving in Costa Rica can bring in 500 cigarettes or 500 grams of tobacco and three liters of wine or spirits.

Climate in Costa Rica

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The climate of Costa Rica. Costa Rica is unequivocally a tropical country, situated between 8° and 11° North latitude, fairly close to the equator. Although in the mountains above 2000 meters you get much cooler temperatures, the average annual temperature for most of the country lies between 21.7°C (71°F) and 27°C (81°F). The coolest months are from November through January, and the warmest from March through May. San José, the capital, where over a third of the population lives, stands at approximately 1170 meters altitude and has a mean annual temperature of 20.6°C (69°F).

The nation's climate is classically divided into two major seasons: rainy and dry. The dry season runs from January through May and the rainy season from May to November and December. Locally, the seasons were named by the early Spanish colonizers, who compared them to their own Mediterranean climate, calling the dry months "verano" or summer, and the rainy, grey and gloomy months "invierno" or winter. It is interesting to note that some of the coldest temperatures are registered during the early dry season or "summer". Climate is, of course, a complex phenomenon, and there are many aspects of the weather in Costa Rica that are worth examining in more detail, such as the influences of wind, rain, and topography

Weather in the tropics is essentially a phenomenon of solar radiation and air circulation. Intense heat at the equator puts air in motion, and a worldwide pattern of winds is established. The most famous of these, for Costa Rica, are the north-easterly trade winds, known locally as "alisios". These winds blow with considerable force from December to March and April. These winds, for example, are responsible for carrying moisture in the form of mists to the slopes of the Tilarán mountain range. These mists are what sustain the magnificent cloud forest ecosystem.

Rainfall patterns, although seasonal, vary greatly in intensity across geographical areas. Some locations receive over 6 mts (18 ft) of precipitation per year, while others receive under 1.5 mts (4 ft). Most of the total rainfall for any given site (about 70%) occurs on less than 15 days of a whole year, and will often be experienced as days of torrential downpour. Costa Rica may hold the world record for the amount of rainy days at one site. Hacienda Cedral registered 359 days of rain in 1968.

The topography of the country also has a great influence on the weather patterns of a given locality. As a result the timing of the dry and rainy seasons varies a bit on each slope of the mountain ranges that run from the north-west to the south-east and divide the nation into a Caribbean slope and a Pacific slope.

On the Caribbean slope the rainy season begins from mid to late April and continues through December and sometimes January. The wettest months are July and November, with a dry spell that occurs around August or September. Major storms, called "temporales del Atlantico" occasionally buffet this slope between September and February, when it will rain continuously for several days; but an average rainy season day will begin clear with a few hours of sunshine that will give way to clouds and rain by the afternoon. In contrast, the driest months of February and March, might be almost entirely without rainfall.

On the Pacific slope the rainy season begins in May and runs its course until November. Here again, days often begin sunny and pleasant, with rains coming later in the day. This is a period in which the trade winds coming from the north-east are much reduced in intensity, and as a result storms often come in from the Pacific Ocean in September and October. In the northern half of the country the Pacific slope experiences an intense dry season, in which no rain may fall for several months. The forests of the North-West are to a large extent deciduous, letting their leaves fall in order to conserve water. Winds can be very strong, occasionally reaching speeds of 90 km/hr in the lowlands, although they average more around 20 km/hr. The whole Central Valley, in which the capital is situated, experiences a mild, pleasant dry season that is matched by moderate temperatures for most of the year, and a lower than average amount of rainfall. Early settlers prized the area for both its mild climate and fertile soils. The southern half of the Pacific slope is much wetter than its northern counterpart, with a shorter dry season and longer and heavier afternoon rains in the wet season.

In a discussion of the climate in Costa Rica one cannot omit El Niño, "The Child". It is a poorly understood weather phenomenon that occurs every two to seven years. It is originally detectable as an unusual warming of a section of the Pacific Ocean. In 1997 El Niño struck Costa Rica once again, disrupting normal weather patterns considerably. Some scientists have postulated that this phenomenon might have been partially responsible for the disappearance of several species of frogs in the late 80's, which are extremely dependent on water. Each time it occurs analysts across the world hold their breaths waiting to see the effects it has on different regions, because they can often be disastrous.

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Costa Rica Travel Tips

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Travel with tickets and money separate in case of theft/loss.

Keep valuables and passports safe and only carry enough money for aticipated expenses..

Leave a copy of your itinerary, a photo copy of airline tickets, passport identification page, driver´s licence, credit cards, travelers checks, prescriptions medical history, and important business documents with family and / or friend for emergencies.

Make sure your health insurance covers medical emergencies away from home. If not, look into purchasing travel insurance.

Label each piece of luggage inside and out (name, address, and telephone number). Use covered luggage tags, Intead of your home address, use that of your office information.

Bring extra batteries for cameras and electronics. They may be hard to find here, as you are going to be travelling around.

When possible leave jewelry at home.

Patience, remember You are a visitor to this country. Customs and practices may be different, enjoy the difference!!!!!

Pack a small first aid kit (antiseptic, antihistamine, decogestant, band aids, anti itch ointment, diarrhea medications, pain killers (asa) gravol.

Protect cameras, batteries etc. in plastic bags. Even the humidity of the Rain Forest can permeate into your electronic equipment.

Protection from insects. Insects are attracted to some of the things you carry in your luggage soap, lotions, harmless insects don´t bother people but it is better to have them away from your clothes.

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Arenal Volcano in Costa Rica

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One of the most active volcanoes in the world, come to visit it in Costa Rica, arrive to San Jose, sleep in www.hotelcapital.org best backpacker hostels in san Jose Downtown, we could help you to travel on a budget way arund the country.

Thanks a lot,

LUNA DE MIEL EN COSTA RICA

2006-10-03T08:54:00.000-07:00

EN LA PLAYA, SOLOS Y ENAMORADOS...

Todos han soñado con caminar de la mano en una playa paradisíaca, sentir la suavidad de la arena mientras el agua moja los pies. Costa Rica les tiene como recibimiento una gran variedad de playas con diversos matices, en donde podrá vivir agradables experiencias que hará de su luna de miel, una ocasión perfecta.

Encontrará hoteles de playa en las zonas de Guanacaste Norte y Sur, Puntarenas e Islas del Golfo, Pacifico Medio, Pacifico Sur y en el Caribe Sur. Para llegar a ellas, tendrá la facilidad de transportarse en vuelos regionales a los aeropuertos de Liberia, Pacifico Central o Golfito. O si lo desean, podrá hacer el recorrido por vía terrestre. Explorar el mundo marino buceando, navegar en bote, jugar con las olas en kayaks en el mar, practicar la pesca, el golf, realizar visitas a las reservas naturales cercanas que los cubrirán con su hermoso manto verde de vegetación, o bien sentir la paz y el romance que les regalan los bellos atardeceres, mientras caminan de la mano a orillas del mar para escuchar el susurro de las olas. Todas estas son algunas opciones de las actividades que encontraran, para que juntos, descubran que la belleza de Costa Rica seguirá formando parte de sus vidas después de haber pasado la mejor luna de miel.

SU NIDO DE AMOR Costa Rica es un país de fácil acceso que posee dos aeropuertos internacionales, el aeropuerto Juan Santamaría ubicado en San José, y el aeropuerto Daniel Oduber en Liberia, Guanacaste. Gracias a ello solo deberán preocuparse el uno del otro, porque la comodidad y buen servicio que ofrecen los diversos lugares están asegurados, dejándoles todo el tiempo del mundo para disfrutar en pareja. Costa Rica cuenta con hoteles especializados en lunas de miel, que le harán pasar este momento de una forma mas especial. Entre las opciones que se brinda encontrarán instalaciones para todos los gustos y que se amoldan a los diferentes tipos de presupuesto.

La alternativa de los hoteles boutique les otorga una luna de miel con mayor privacidad. También pueden escoger entre los hoteles de playa, algunos de ellos con el sistema todo incluido, o bien, entre las opciones de hospedaje que permiten internarse en la montaña para disfrutar de su estadía. BAJO EL VERDE DE LAS MONTAÑAS La variedad de opciones en Costa Rica complementará el amor y la mística de su unión. Caminar solos en contacto directo con la naturaleza, ocultarse en la niebla, observar juntos la exuberante flora y fauna de los bosques tropicales o escuchar la lluvia abrazados bajo el techo de una cabaña. También tendrán la oportunidad de disfrutar otras actividades como cabalgatas a caballo, respirar el aroma de los bosques por medio de las caminatas, o llenarse de adrenalina con actividades como el rafting, paseos en teleférico o el deslizamiento por las copas de los árboles; complemento perfecto para agregarle emocionantes pasajes a su confortable estadía.

Entre la variedad de sitios para que pasen esos felices momentos, encontrará montañas, volcanes, cascadas, selvas, bosques tropicales húmedos, lagunas, y muchos mas. Todos ellos son lugares ideales y a distancias accesibles por vía aérea y terrestre, para hacer de su luna de miel algo único y fascinante. Las zonas principales donde encontrará hoteles de montaña en el país son: Monteverde, Llanuras del Norte, Valle Central, Caribe Norte, Pacifico Sur y Pacífico Central.

FELICES DESDE EL PRIMER MOMENTO La luna de miel, el inicio de una vida juntos. Romanticismo, experiencias, confidencias y recuerdos. Cuando te unes de por vida a una persona, todos aquellos pequeños detalles cobran importancia. El aroma de la madera, la textura de las sabanas, el primer atardecer como matrimonio, los sonidos del amanecer. Por eso, el lugar que se elija para la luna de miel debe tener un ambiente calido, de intimidad, debe ser diferente y con un toque inolvidable. Una experiencia especial para los dos, que se convierta en un recuerdo para siempre. Costa Rica le ofrece ese ambiente propicio, al ser uno de los 10 mejores destinos para disfrutar de la luna de miel, según el premio Modern Bride World's trendiest Honeymoon Locales. Esto le garantizará que su momento sea aun mas especial, gracias a la armonía natural y a la variedad de actividades complementarias que podrá encontrar. Costa Rica es un lugar paradisíaco donde usted estará en contacto directo con la naturaleza y sus hermosos paisajes. Podrá disfrutar desde una tranquila estadía hasta emocionantes aventuras llenas de acción, ya sea en un ambiente de playa o en los exóticos bosques.

best information source about Costa Rica

2006-10-03T08:00:00.000-07:00

Hello, please enter to www.1-costaricalink.com there you will find the best information source about Costa Rica

INFORMATION RESOURCES COSTA RICA

2006-09-20T09:43:00.000-07:00

2006-08-09T17:11:00.000-07:00

Our Sustainable Hospitality Best Practices

2006-08-09T16:47:00.000-07:00

WELCOME to Budget Green Hotels & Tours - San Jose Costa Rica

We invite you to know more about our Our Sustainable Hospitality Best Practices - please check: http://bernardo.escobar.googlepages.com/sustainablehospitalitypractices

I really hope someday we (human beings) are going to learn how to change the whole pattern of our behaviour and developement in order to be more sustainable. I also hope nature is going to pressure us to learn faster, - NATURE IS GOING TO TEACH US - It is going to be hard, but...

Adventure Tours in Costa Rica

2006-08-09T16:24:00.000-07:00

Welcome to Budget Hotels & Tours in Costa Rica

We offer different tours, please check: http://bernardo.escobar.googlepages.com/tours to see the list and descriptions.

These are the most popular tour activities, please if you need additional information or a different activity or tour, Contact Us

Budget Hotels San Jose Costa Rica

2006-08-09T16:08:00.000-07:00

Welcome to Budget Hotels San Jose Downtown Costa Rica.

We offer two hotel / hostel ideal for backpacker and budget travelers in the middle of the action, near to almost all the bus stations to travel around the country. You will find banks, malls, museums, casinos, sportbooks, theaters ...

Hotel Capital and La Pampa Hostel - VISIT US --- > www.hotelcapital.org

We also offer Budget Tours around the country - adventure, nature, relax, and so on.
VISIT US:
http://bernardo.escobar.googlepages.com/tours

Budget Hotels San Jose Costa Rica

HOTELES ECONOMICOS EN SAN JOSE COSTA RICA - PARA SUS GRUPOS

Contacto: Tel.: (506)221-4337 - Fax:(506) 221-8583Email Us: hostel @ hostelsolyluna.com www.hostelsolyluna.com Dirección: Calle, Ave. 1-3, San José Costa Rica. De torre medica en paseo colon 150 metros norte. lado este de la escuela Juan Rafael Mora.

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costa rica hotels and real state - monteverde costa rica - adventure tours - moteverde, san jose, and others

Bienvenidos al Hotel La Pampa en San José Costa Rica. --

www.costaricahostel.info

Tenemos 11 habitaciones ideales para grupos, backpackers (mochileros) y familias. Hay habitaciones para una, dos, tres, cuatro personas, algunas con baño privado. Agua caliente disponible en todas las duchas. Ver nuestra Galeríade Fotos -

Estamos localizados enseguida de la estaciónde buses Tralapa que viaja a Guanacaste, Liberia, Santa Cruz, Flamingo, Tamarindo, Filadelfia, playa Panamá.

LA PAMPA HOSTEL - BUDGET CHEAP ACCOMMODATION IN COSTA RICA

Tenemos 11 habitaciones ideales para grupos, backpackers (mochileros) y familias. Hay habitaciones para una, dos, tres, cuatro personas, algunas con baño privado. Agua caliente disponible en todas las duchas. Ver nuestra Galeríade Fotos -

Estamos localizados enseguida de la estaciónde buses Tralapa que viaja a Guanacaste, Liberia, Santa Cruz, Flamingo, Tamarindo, Filadelfia, playa Panamá.

HOTELES IN COSTA RICA

COSTA RICA VACATIONS - TOURISM INFORMATION LINKS

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Welcome to Costa Rica Central Valley Information

Tortuguero Costa Rica

The park has a terrestrial and maritime zone. Its mean annual temperature is 26°C.

LOCATION The park is located on the Caribbean region, 80 km north of the city of Limon and is included in the Tortuguero Conservation Area.

One of its main attractions is the spawning of marine turtles, as the gigantic leatherback, the green turtle, the loggerhead, of a brownish color and the hawksbill turtle, which is the smallest. All are in danger of extinction.

SERVICES OFFERED General information, restrooms, trails, fluvial port. The town of Tortuguero has a runway, local guides, and food and lodging services.

GANDOCA COSTA RICA

GENERAL INFORMATION Gandoca Manzanillo is a National Wildlife Refuge of a mixed type. Its most important ecosystems are the yellow sand beaches and wetlands, including swamps, lagoons, inundated forests, coral reefs, banks of marine flowering plants and algae.

In the Refuge there is only one life form: the Tropical Moist Forest which follows the general climatic pattern typical of the South Caribbean coast of Costa Rica, with a decrease of precipitation between January and April, September and October.

ACCESS The Refuge is located 203 Km from San Josè and 71 km from the city of Limòn (Manzanillo sector). It is also possible to access it via the Gandoca sector, located 95 km from the city of Limòn, using the road communicating Bri-Bri and Sixaola.

SERVICES OFFERED General information, restrooms, potable water, lunch area, access by paved road, restaurants, hotels, cabins in the vicinity and local guides.

Al Gore - La verdad Incomoda - Calentamiento Global

Costa Rica General Information

GANDOCA COSTA RICA - GENERAL INFORMATION

GENERAL INFORMATION Gandoca Manzanillo is a National Wildlife Refuge of a mixed type. Its most important ecosystems are the yellow sand beaches and wetlands, including swamps, lagoons, inundated forests, coral reefs, banks of marine flowering plants and algae.

In the Refuge there is only one life form: the Tropical Moist Forest which follows the general climatic pattern typical of the South Caribbean coast of Costa Rica, with a decrease of precipitation between January and April, September and October.

ACCESS The Refuge is located 203 Km from San Josè and 71 km from the city of Limòn (Manzanillo sector). It is also possible to access it via the Gandoca sector, located 95 km from the city of Limòn, using the road communicating Bri-Bri and Sixaola.

SERVICES OFFERED General information, restrooms, potable water, lunch area, access by paved road, restaurants, hotels, cabins in the vicinity and local guides.

ISLA DEL COCO - BUSEO EN COSTA RICA

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North Guanacaste harbors an important portion of the costa rican cultural and natural patrimony. Not in vain there is a significant number of protected areas, including coastal, mountainous, terrestrial, and aquatic ecosystems, where life develops with exuberance.

ACTIVITIES The possible tourist activities to develop are diverse; they can relate to the vacation, the health, the culture, adventure and nature thus with recreational and sports aspects.

HORSEBACK RIDING A pastoral region, Guanacaste offers this activity in coastal areas and in the mountains and their communities. Horseback-riding tours are available through tourism operators or family-owned farms that rent horses.

HIKING There is no end to the diversity of hiking options available for observing various natural, historical, architectural, cultural, religious and commercial attractions.

RECREATIONAL CYCLING The region offers a variety of picturesque roads and adventure or leisure sites that allow touring on regular or mountain bikes. Beaches and mountains are among the most interesting riding destinations.

ARCHITECTURAL AND HISTORIC SITES There are sites and buildings of architectural or historic interest and National Monuments that are considered must-see places, mainly in Abangares, Bagaces, CaÑas, Liberia, Santa Cruz and Nicoya.

CUISINE Typical towns are characterized by sodas (small restaurants serving local food), cafes and restaurants where visitors can sample the cuisine of Guanacaste. Cañas, Tilaran, Liberia and mainly Santa Cruz stand out as communities with traditions in typical food and drink.

BIRD-WATCHING Bird-watching is possible mainly in protected areas. Many sites offer the opportunity to get with the birds, with Palo Verde, Cura, Isla Bolaños and Tenorio among the biggest.

TREETOP ADVENTURES There are several options for visitors to observe the goings-on in the forest canopy, including various monkey and bird species.

PHOTOGRAPHY This is a most popular tourist activity owing to Guanacaste climatic conditions and wealth of flora and fauna, as well as its varied natural, cultural and architectural landscapes.

DIVING This adventure or recreational activity is becoming more and more popular in Guanacaste, thanks to its excellent dive sites and the specialized companies that normally offer services abroad. Important sites include the Gulf of Papagayo and the Santa Catalina islands.

SPORT-FISHING This is one of the Northern Pacific region main attractions. Artisan and recreational fishing are possible, but of greater interest are the tournaments in which several world billfish records have been broken. The fish are returned to the water after weigh-in.

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