Source: http://www.journalcr.com
Posted by Roger Vlasos
Broker/Owner
Century21 At the Beach
Playas del Coco, Guanacaste, Costa Rica
Website: http://www.century21incostarica.com
Email: roger@century21incostarica.com
(Infocom) — A total of 129,623 people arrived in Costa Rica via Liberia’s Daniel Oduber International Airport during the first half of 2008, 10,883 (9.16 percent) more than during the same period last year.
According to data obtained from Daniel Oduber and San Jose’s Juan Santamaria International Airport, plus visitation estimates provided by the National Chamber of Tourism (CANATUR) that include other ports of entry, Costa Rica received 1,030,000 tourists in the first semester of this year, or 89,178 more compared with the same period in 2007.
Even though these are not official numbers, CANATUR said they point to important growth in local tourism trends.
However, it is forecasted that the global crisis resulting from sky-high petroleum prices could impact the number of visitors arriving in the country during the rest of the year.
“These estimates and forecasts reveal very encouraging data for Costa Rica’s tourism, despite the difficult economic conditions of the day, both external and internal, that are affecting the growth and development of this sector,” said Gonzalo Vargas, president of CANATUR. “We can say based on the performance of this first semester, Costa Rica is still well liked by foreigners as an ideal place to enjoy their vacation time.”
The visitation estimates unveiled also underscore the fact that both the Liberia and San Jose airports saw increases in passenger influx. During the first semester of 2007, some 595,405 tourists arrived through Juan Santamaria, while during that same period this year the number jumped to 673,701, for a 13.1 percent increase.
But not all is good news. Vargas explained that the effects of some external variables — such as escalating fuel and food prices plus the U.S. economic slowdown — will possibly begin to be felt in Costa Rica during the rest of 2008. That’s why he called on business owners to be more careful during this period before the 2008-2009 high tourist season begins.
Additionally, government officials in charge of the country’s monetary policy have warned about the strong economic adjustment Costa Ricans will face during the second semester of this year, due to the impact of international markets and direct effects related to high prices of oil, steel and food.
The Costa Rican Central Bank has also informed that accumulated inflation in the past 12 months reached 13 percent in June, generating an increase in the prices of basic goods and services. The prize of the U.S. dollar compared to the colon has also gone up, while national production of goods slowed in the first quarter of 2008 to one of its lowest levels in the past two years. Meanwhile, exports were reduced considerably due to the economic crisis in the United States — Costa Rica’s main commercial partner.
“The Costa Rican tourism sector must be prepared to feel the negative effects of this situation, reflected in the reduction of purchasing power of the local population to go on vacation or make one-day trips,” Vargas said.
The CANATUR president added that the tourism industry must continually work to guarantee the sustainability of Costa Rica’s top economic activity — which generates $1.85 billion annually, or 8 percent of the Gross Domestic Product (GDP), 20 percent of total exports, and 450,000 jobs.
And although Vargas acknowledged that the numbers looked good for the first semester of 2008, it’s very possible that Costa Ricans will opt for limiting their income for leisure and recreation, resulting in a slowdown of local tourism — which in 2007 represented 1.3 million citizens and foreign residents traveling around the country.
“As a priority, the local population will take care of its basic needs. We see how, as interest rates have gone up recently, the amount in colones that is paid for loans will be higher, again affecting the percentage of disposable income available for recreation,” Vargas explained. “We must add to that the already mentioned increases in fuel and food costs, which for the moment are driving up inflation. And the tourism industry is not exempt from this situation.”
Saturday, October 4, 2008
CR tourism grows at three times the international rate
Source: http://www.journalcr.com
Posted by Roger Vlasos
Broker/Owner
Century21 At the Beach
Playas del Coco, Guanacaste, Costa Rica
Website: http://www.century21incostarica.com
Email: roger@century21incostarica.com
(Infocom) — Despite the adverse conditions of the world economy due to the rise of fuel prices, the economic slowdown in the United States, the international food crisis and the ever-present threat of terrorism, Costa Rica continues to perform well in terms of the number of tourists coming here.
According to the latest World Tourism Barometer issued by the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), Costa Rica has experienced a very positive performance in terms of tourist influx, remaining in the two-digit growth level, despite the fact that international travel only attained a 5-percent growth average during the first four months of 2008 — one percentage point above what was expected at the beginning of this year.
Costa Rica’s exceptional numbers were highlighted by UNWTO in its June report, news that Tourism Minister Carlos Ricardo Benavides was glad to receive.
“It’s very satisfactory to us that as part of the positive worldwide growth that the tourism industry has posted in the first few months of this year, Costa Rica has remained among the group of countries with the most dynamic performance and the highest increases in the arrival of international tourists, in the two digits, and in our case, having three times the world median,” Benavides said. “This pushes us to continue doubling efforts to keep the current economic uncertainty due to high petroleum prices from impacting us as much as far as the tourism activity, but also allows us to see the coming months with a very positive outlook.”
As the time has gone by, Costa Rica has continued to venture into new tourism market niches with the objective of expanding its product supply and provide a wide range of options and services to visitors. The results are noteworthy: between 2003 and 2007, the country’s tourism activity posted a 56 percent growth, going from 1,238,000 to 1,926,000 visitors, which has contributed to an increase in the range of products offered by the local industry.
During the first five months of 2008, tourist arrival in Costa Rica grew by 15.6 percent, and estimates indicate some 2.1 million visitors will have arrived here by the end of the year — at least 200,000 more than in 2007, according to data from the National Chamber of Tourism (CANATUR). Such data also indicates that the main attractions sought by tourists are sun and beaches, nature and adventure, and ecotourism. However, rural tourism, congresses and conventions, and medical tourism and niches that have helped diversify the country’s tourism product, reaching more segments and sectors of the market.
Another factor contributing to the success of Costa Rica’s tourism in the midst of adverse conditions is that the country hasn’t faced reductions in flights, which has occurred to other nations in the region. According to the June UNWTO barometer, tourism growth was fastest in regions such as the Middle East, North-East and South Asia, and Central and South America. The report highlighted nations such as China, Japan, the United States, Costa Rica, Chile and Peru, among others, which have managed to post positive two-digit growth.
UNWTO believes that, although consumer confidence indices show an increasing degree of uncertainty, international tourism has proven to be resilient in similar circumstances in the past and able to cope with various types of shocks, including security threats, geopolitical tensions or natural and man-made crisis. Accounting for these factors, coupled with a slower but still positive economic growth, international tourism is as yet expected to keep growing at a solid pace in the mid-term, broadly in line with UNWTO’s Tourism 2020 Vision forecast long-term growth rate of about 4 percent.
Tourism market niches
One of the segments of the Costa Rican market that has experienced tremendous growth and recognition is medical tourism, in which visitors — in addition to schedule some sort of surgical procedure — also take advantage of the trip to visit various attractions the country has to offer.
Since 1995, the World Trade Organization has included Costa Rica in the list of top 20 countries with the best health systems and third with the highest life expectancy rates. This, in addition to the quality of health professionals here and the low cost of medical treatment, has helped position Costa Rica as a favorite destination for health tourism.
CANATUR President Gonzalo Vargas said this niche came about almost accidentally, as tourists who came here to relax began comparing prices for some health services and took note of the abysmal difference compared to prices in their home countries.
“Tourists have the option of coming to Costa Rica to vacation and, at the same time, have some sort of health or aesthetic treatment done. The cost of doing both activities is still less than having just the medical procedure done in their home countries,” Vargas indicated.
According to the Costa Rican Tourism Institute (ICT), some 95 percent of the people coming here for medical procedures are from the United States, where costly treatments such as plastic surgery are not covered by insurance. In Costa Rica, ICT claims, they can save between 50 percent and 70 percent on the costs of such procedures.
Vargas said that among the most sough-after treatments are dentistry and orthodontic procedures, plastic surgery and other aesthetic procedures. Additionally, “Costa Rica provides the great advantage that there are already hotels specializing in the attention of patient post-operation, which undoubtedly provides for better chances of a quick and complete recovery,” Vargas said. “Together with the travel component and the excellent prices, these factors differentiate the country and allow us to have a competitive advantages over other nations (offering similar services).”
The head of CANATUR indicated Costa Rica is a privileged country, where many different options can be exploited to attract tourists and cover well the different niches of the travel market. He added that the National Tourism Development Plan 2002-2012 has set a goal of attracting 2.3 million foreign visitors and 1.6 million domestic tourists on a yearly average basis, reason why it’s essential that the different types of tourism activities be executed in a sustainable and environmentally harmonious manner.
Posted by Roger Vlasos
Broker/Owner
Century21 At the Beach
Playas del Coco, Guanacaste, Costa Rica
Website: http://www.century21incostarica.com
Email: roger@century21incostarica.com
(Infocom) — Despite the adverse conditions of the world economy due to the rise of fuel prices, the economic slowdown in the United States, the international food crisis and the ever-present threat of terrorism, Costa Rica continues to perform well in terms of the number of tourists coming here.
According to the latest World Tourism Barometer issued by the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), Costa Rica has experienced a very positive performance in terms of tourist influx, remaining in the two-digit growth level, despite the fact that international travel only attained a 5-percent growth average during the first four months of 2008 — one percentage point above what was expected at the beginning of this year.
Costa Rica’s exceptional numbers were highlighted by UNWTO in its June report, news that Tourism Minister Carlos Ricardo Benavides was glad to receive.
“It’s very satisfactory to us that as part of the positive worldwide growth that the tourism industry has posted in the first few months of this year, Costa Rica has remained among the group of countries with the most dynamic performance and the highest increases in the arrival of international tourists, in the two digits, and in our case, having three times the world median,” Benavides said. “This pushes us to continue doubling efforts to keep the current economic uncertainty due to high petroleum prices from impacting us as much as far as the tourism activity, but also allows us to see the coming months with a very positive outlook.”
As the time has gone by, Costa Rica has continued to venture into new tourism market niches with the objective of expanding its product supply and provide a wide range of options and services to visitors. The results are noteworthy: between 2003 and 2007, the country’s tourism activity posted a 56 percent growth, going from 1,238,000 to 1,926,000 visitors, which has contributed to an increase in the range of products offered by the local industry.
During the first five months of 2008, tourist arrival in Costa Rica grew by 15.6 percent, and estimates indicate some 2.1 million visitors will have arrived here by the end of the year — at least 200,000 more than in 2007, according to data from the National Chamber of Tourism (CANATUR). Such data also indicates that the main attractions sought by tourists are sun and beaches, nature and adventure, and ecotourism. However, rural tourism, congresses and conventions, and medical tourism and niches that have helped diversify the country’s tourism product, reaching more segments and sectors of the market.
Another factor contributing to the success of Costa Rica’s tourism in the midst of adverse conditions is that the country hasn’t faced reductions in flights, which has occurred to other nations in the region. According to the June UNWTO barometer, tourism growth was fastest in regions such as the Middle East, North-East and South Asia, and Central and South America. The report highlighted nations such as China, Japan, the United States, Costa Rica, Chile and Peru, among others, which have managed to post positive two-digit growth.
UNWTO believes that, although consumer confidence indices show an increasing degree of uncertainty, international tourism has proven to be resilient in similar circumstances in the past and able to cope with various types of shocks, including security threats, geopolitical tensions or natural and man-made crisis. Accounting for these factors, coupled with a slower but still positive economic growth, international tourism is as yet expected to keep growing at a solid pace in the mid-term, broadly in line with UNWTO’s Tourism 2020 Vision forecast long-term growth rate of about 4 percent.
Tourism market niches
One of the segments of the Costa Rican market that has experienced tremendous growth and recognition is medical tourism, in which visitors — in addition to schedule some sort of surgical procedure — also take advantage of the trip to visit various attractions the country has to offer.
Since 1995, the World Trade Organization has included Costa Rica in the list of top 20 countries with the best health systems and third with the highest life expectancy rates. This, in addition to the quality of health professionals here and the low cost of medical treatment, has helped position Costa Rica as a favorite destination for health tourism.
CANATUR President Gonzalo Vargas said this niche came about almost accidentally, as tourists who came here to relax began comparing prices for some health services and took note of the abysmal difference compared to prices in their home countries.
“Tourists have the option of coming to Costa Rica to vacation and, at the same time, have some sort of health or aesthetic treatment done. The cost of doing both activities is still less than having just the medical procedure done in their home countries,” Vargas indicated.
According to the Costa Rican Tourism Institute (ICT), some 95 percent of the people coming here for medical procedures are from the United States, where costly treatments such as plastic surgery are not covered by insurance. In Costa Rica, ICT claims, they can save between 50 percent and 70 percent on the costs of such procedures.
Vargas said that among the most sough-after treatments are dentistry and orthodontic procedures, plastic surgery and other aesthetic procedures. Additionally, “Costa Rica provides the great advantage that there are already hotels specializing in the attention of patient post-operation, which undoubtedly provides for better chances of a quick and complete recovery,” Vargas said. “Together with the travel component and the excellent prices, these factors differentiate the country and allow us to have a competitive advantages over other nations (offering similar services).”
The head of CANATUR indicated Costa Rica is a privileged country, where many different options can be exploited to attract tourists and cover well the different niches of the travel market. He added that the National Tourism Development Plan 2002-2012 has set a goal of attracting 2.3 million foreign visitors and 1.6 million domestic tourists on a yearly average basis, reason why it’s essential that the different types of tourism activities be executed in a sustainable and environmentally harmonious manner.
More tourists expected in Guanacaste for mid-year vacation
Source: http://www.journalcr.com
Posted by Roger Vlasos
Broker/Owner
Century21 At the Beach
Playas del Coco, Guanacaste, Costa Rica
Website: http://www.century21incostarica.com
Email: roger@century21incostarica.com
(Infocom) — The National Chamber of Tourism (CANATUR) said it is expecting a significant increase in the number of national tourists visiting various destinations throughout the country, with at least 150,000 Costa Ricans traveling now that the mid-year school vacation has arrived.
According to CANATUR, it is expected that beach and mountain hotels will see their occupancy levels increase this vacation season. Studies conducted by this chamber indicate that the most popular destinations during this time of year are Jaco (Central Pacific), northern Guanacaste, Puntarenas, La Fortuna and Monteverde (Northern Zone).
Guanacaste has been preparing to receive this wave of July visitors. Among the measures being implemented are road repairs, security reinforcement on coastal areas and those favorite with tourists, and cleanup and sanitation campaigns.
Additionally, there’s another important wave of tourists coming from the United States as part of summer break. Many of them take advantage of this time to visit Costa Rica via Liberia’s Daniel Oduber International Airport. Only in the first quarter of this year, the influx of passengers through this terminal reached 156,028 people, according to data provided by the Civil Aviation General Office. This represent an increase of 13 percent compared to the same period in 2007, as confirmed by Mauricio Cespedes, executive director of the Guanacaste Chamber of Tourism (CATURGUA).
CANATUR President Gonzalo Vargas said the mid-year vacation is a great opportunity for families to take advantage of the country’s many and diverse destinations and enjoy very accessible prices.
With the goal of providing local tourists with different options in terms of destinations to visit, CANATUR and state-owned Banco Nacional are forging ahead with a discount campaign all of this year, called “Be a tourist in your own country, all year-long, at a very small price.” The focus of this campaign is on providing Costa Ricans a 35 percent discount on a variety of tourism options such as beach and mountain hotels, one-day tours and extreme sports, as well as personal care establishments and tourism services such as rent-a-cars.
“Through this campaign we are trying to promote domestic tourism, so that Costa Rican families benefit from discounts, allowing them to get to know many of the places and paradisiacal destinations Costa Rica has, which for so long have been thought of as exclusive to foreign tourists,” Vargas said.
More than 40 tourism-sector businesses are participating in this campaign, offering 35 percent discounts to national tourists as long as they pay with Banco Nacional-issued debit or credit cards.
“Even though the objective of this campaign is to promote domestic tourism and benefit Costa Ricans, it also seeks to benefit companies taking part in this agreement by increasing the number of visitors and reservations not only during the low tourism season, but all throughout the year, thus keeping satisfactory occupancy levels to allow for the growth of this industry all over the country,” Vargas concluded.
Posted by Roger Vlasos
Broker/Owner
Century21 At the Beach
Playas del Coco, Guanacaste, Costa Rica
Website: http://www.century21incostarica.com
Email: roger@century21incostarica.com
(Infocom) — The National Chamber of Tourism (CANATUR) said it is expecting a significant increase in the number of national tourists visiting various destinations throughout the country, with at least 150,000 Costa Ricans traveling now that the mid-year school vacation has arrived.
According to CANATUR, it is expected that beach and mountain hotels will see their occupancy levels increase this vacation season. Studies conducted by this chamber indicate that the most popular destinations during this time of year are Jaco (Central Pacific), northern Guanacaste, Puntarenas, La Fortuna and Monteverde (Northern Zone).
Guanacaste has been preparing to receive this wave of July visitors. Among the measures being implemented are road repairs, security reinforcement on coastal areas and those favorite with tourists, and cleanup and sanitation campaigns.
Additionally, there’s another important wave of tourists coming from the United States as part of summer break. Many of them take advantage of this time to visit Costa Rica via Liberia’s Daniel Oduber International Airport. Only in the first quarter of this year, the influx of passengers through this terminal reached 156,028 people, according to data provided by the Civil Aviation General Office. This represent an increase of 13 percent compared to the same period in 2007, as confirmed by Mauricio Cespedes, executive director of the Guanacaste Chamber of Tourism (CATURGUA).
CANATUR President Gonzalo Vargas said the mid-year vacation is a great opportunity for families to take advantage of the country’s many and diverse destinations and enjoy very accessible prices.
With the goal of providing local tourists with different options in terms of destinations to visit, CANATUR and state-owned Banco Nacional are forging ahead with a discount campaign all of this year, called “Be a tourist in your own country, all year-long, at a very small price.” The focus of this campaign is on providing Costa Ricans a 35 percent discount on a variety of tourism options such as beach and mountain hotels, one-day tours and extreme sports, as well as personal care establishments and tourism services such as rent-a-cars.
“Through this campaign we are trying to promote domestic tourism, so that Costa Rican families benefit from discounts, allowing them to get to know many of the places and paradisiacal destinations Costa Rica has, which for so long have been thought of as exclusive to foreign tourists,” Vargas said.
More than 40 tourism-sector businesses are participating in this campaign, offering 35 percent discounts to national tourists as long as they pay with Banco Nacional-issued debit or credit cards.
“Even though the objective of this campaign is to promote domestic tourism and benefit Costa Ricans, it also seeks to benefit companies taking part in this agreement by increasing the number of visitors and reservations not only during the low tourism season, but all throughout the year, thus keeping satisfactory occupancy levels to allow for the growth of this industry all over the country,” Vargas concluded.
Costa Rica’s ‘Treasure Island’ among New 7 Wonders of Nature favorites
Source: http://www.journalcr.com
Posted by Roger Vlasos
Broker/Owner
Century21 At the Beach
Playas del Coco, Guanacaste, Costa Rica
Website: http://www.century21incostarica.com
Email: roger@century21incostarica.com
(Infocom) — The subject of maritime tales, legends of treasures buried by pirates and even the inspiration for Hollywood films such as Jurassic Park, Costa Rica’s Isla del Coco (Cocos Island) is inching closer to becoming part of modern history as one of the New 7 Wonders of Nature.
Thirty years after it was declared a national park (a ceremony was held this past June 23), this Pacific Island natural treasure is competing against 300 other ecological marvels from all over the world in an online contest organized by the New 7 Wonders Foundation. As of June 26, Cocos Island was 11 on the list, according to the website www.new7wonders.com, where anybody with a valid e-mail address can go to cast his or her vote (those with more than one e-mail address can vote more than once).
Polling will continue until 2009, when the New 7 Wonders Foundation — which recently held a similar Internet competition to select the new seven man-made wonders of the world, including places such as Mexico’s Chichen Itza and Peru’s Machu Picchu — will tally up the votes and pick the 21 sites receiving the most support.
Cocos Island — which famous oceanographer and conservationist Jacques Cousteau called “the world’s most beautiful island” — has proven to be a strong contender. The island’s beauties and its fabled and mysterious history have made it a favorite among nature lovers. Additionally, there’s a committee in the country led by the Friends of Cocos Island Foundation, whose goal is to promote the attributes of this isolated ocean paradise locally and internationally to obtain as much support as possible for its candidacy.
The final New 7 Wonders of Nature list will be announced in 2010.
“The Friends of Cocos Island Foundation leads support efforts in this initiative, and we fighting to end up among the first 21 positions worldwide,” said Jessica Chavarria, marketing and public relations coordinator for Friends of Cocos Island Foundation. “For this campaign, we are sending e-mails to friends of the island, we participate in fairs and other events, and during Week of the Sea, in addition to giving talks, we encourage companies to vote. This is a word of mouth campaign.”
According to information supplied by the Friends of Cocos Island Foundation, because of its size, isolation, and conservation status, Cocos Island is one of the most privileged natural sites worldwide. With a unique biological diversity and important endemic species, the island is considered an ideal natural laboratory to carry out research about evolution of species and long-term environmental monitoring.
Results of this type of research could yield important data about the dynamics of the planet’s ecosystems and their relation with global changes in land and seas. That’s part of the great importance of this island to humanity.
Historical and biological value
Convinced of the exceptional caliber of the island’s natural characteristics, in 1978 the government of Costa Rica created the Cocos Island National Park, which was later declared as the core of the marine conservation area that bears the island’s name. Also because of its uniqueness, the United Nations Education, Science and Culture Organization (UNESCO) in 1997 named the island a World Heritage Site. One year later, it was chosen as a RAMSAR wetland site of international importance.
Moreover, on Oct. 11, 2002, the government of Costa Rica named Cocos Island a Historical Architectural Heritage Site.
According to the Friends of Cocos Island Foundation, such designation is due to the great historical and cultural value of the island for Costa Rica and the world, as Cocos has been the subject, since the XVIII century, of visits and some human settlements by groups arriving there from different latitudes and with different purposes.
Inscriptions on the rocks of Chatham and Wafer bays, in addition to other cultural vestiges found on the island, remain as testimonials of this insular territory’s history, giving it exceptional value that deserves to be preserved for the enjoyment of present and future generations.
The 2002 declaration prohibits the demolition of building and alteration of elements bearing historical and cultural value, and it also bans their partial or total remodeling without previous authorization from the Cultural Heritage Research and Conservation Center, an office of the Ministry of Culture and Youth.
Privileged location
Cocos Island was first put on the world map, literally, in 1542, as Ysle de Coques. It was discovered in 1526 by Spanish sailor Johan Cabeças. It is located in the central area of the Eastern Pacific, in the ocean that Spaniards called Mar del Sur (South Sea) during the time of discovery and conquest, in front of the Gulf of Panama. Its extreme borders are: to the north, Agujas Point, at 5º 33'26" N; to the south, Dampier Cape, at 5º 30'06" N; to the west, Lionel Cape, at 87º 05'46" W; and to the east, Atrevido Cape, at 87º 01'47" W.
On the North American continent, the nearest point to Cocos Island is Cabo Blanco, on Costa Rica’s Nicoya Peninsula, located 532 km away. In South America, the nearest points to the island are Isla Pinta (Abingdon), in the Galapagos, 682 km away; and Malpelo Island (Colombia), 630 km away.
Cocos Island’s land area is 23.85 km2, and the area of protected marine ecosystems encompasses 1,997 km2. The island is 7.6 km long and 4.4 km wide.
Take a minute to visit the www.new7wonders.com site and vote for this gem of nature so it can continue climbing positions in the ranking. Even though it’s already a natural wonder to Costa Ricans, your vote could make it a wonder of the entire world.
Posted by Roger Vlasos
Broker/Owner
Century21 At the Beach
Playas del Coco, Guanacaste, Costa Rica
Website: http://www.century21incostarica.com
Email: roger@century21incostarica.com
(Infocom) — The subject of maritime tales, legends of treasures buried by pirates and even the inspiration for Hollywood films such as Jurassic Park, Costa Rica’s Isla del Coco (Cocos Island) is inching closer to becoming part of modern history as one of the New 7 Wonders of Nature.
Thirty years after it was declared a national park (a ceremony was held this past June 23), this Pacific Island natural treasure is competing against 300 other ecological marvels from all over the world in an online contest organized by the New 7 Wonders Foundation. As of June 26, Cocos Island was 11 on the list, according to the website www.new7wonders.com, where anybody with a valid e-mail address can go to cast his or her vote (those with more than one e-mail address can vote more than once).
Polling will continue until 2009, when the New 7 Wonders Foundation — which recently held a similar Internet competition to select the new seven man-made wonders of the world, including places such as Mexico’s Chichen Itza and Peru’s Machu Picchu — will tally up the votes and pick the 21 sites receiving the most support.
Cocos Island — which famous oceanographer and conservationist Jacques Cousteau called “the world’s most beautiful island” — has proven to be a strong contender. The island’s beauties and its fabled and mysterious history have made it a favorite among nature lovers. Additionally, there’s a committee in the country led by the Friends of Cocos Island Foundation, whose goal is to promote the attributes of this isolated ocean paradise locally and internationally to obtain as much support as possible for its candidacy.
The final New 7 Wonders of Nature list will be announced in 2010.
“The Friends of Cocos Island Foundation leads support efforts in this initiative, and we fighting to end up among the first 21 positions worldwide,” said Jessica Chavarria, marketing and public relations coordinator for Friends of Cocos Island Foundation. “For this campaign, we are sending e-mails to friends of the island, we participate in fairs and other events, and during Week of the Sea, in addition to giving talks, we encourage companies to vote. This is a word of mouth campaign.”
According to information supplied by the Friends of Cocos Island Foundation, because of its size, isolation, and conservation status, Cocos Island is one of the most privileged natural sites worldwide. With a unique biological diversity and important endemic species, the island is considered an ideal natural laboratory to carry out research about evolution of species and long-term environmental monitoring.
Results of this type of research could yield important data about the dynamics of the planet’s ecosystems and their relation with global changes in land and seas. That’s part of the great importance of this island to humanity.
Historical and biological value
Convinced of the exceptional caliber of the island’s natural characteristics, in 1978 the government of Costa Rica created the Cocos Island National Park, which was later declared as the core of the marine conservation area that bears the island’s name. Also because of its uniqueness, the United Nations Education, Science and Culture Organization (UNESCO) in 1997 named the island a World Heritage Site. One year later, it was chosen as a RAMSAR wetland site of international importance.
Moreover, on Oct. 11, 2002, the government of Costa Rica named Cocos Island a Historical Architectural Heritage Site.
According to the Friends of Cocos Island Foundation, such designation is due to the great historical and cultural value of the island for Costa Rica and the world, as Cocos has been the subject, since the XVIII century, of visits and some human settlements by groups arriving there from different latitudes and with different purposes.
Inscriptions on the rocks of Chatham and Wafer bays, in addition to other cultural vestiges found on the island, remain as testimonials of this insular territory’s history, giving it exceptional value that deserves to be preserved for the enjoyment of present and future generations.
The 2002 declaration prohibits the demolition of building and alteration of elements bearing historical and cultural value, and it also bans their partial or total remodeling without previous authorization from the Cultural Heritage Research and Conservation Center, an office of the Ministry of Culture and Youth.
Privileged location
Cocos Island was first put on the world map, literally, in 1542, as Ysle de Coques. It was discovered in 1526 by Spanish sailor Johan Cabeças. It is located in the central area of the Eastern Pacific, in the ocean that Spaniards called Mar del Sur (South Sea) during the time of discovery and conquest, in front of the Gulf of Panama. Its extreme borders are: to the north, Agujas Point, at 5º 33'26" N; to the south, Dampier Cape, at 5º 30'06" N; to the west, Lionel Cape, at 87º 05'46" W; and to the east, Atrevido Cape, at 87º 01'47" W.
On the North American continent, the nearest point to Cocos Island is Cabo Blanco, on Costa Rica’s Nicoya Peninsula, located 532 km away. In South America, the nearest points to the island are Isla Pinta (Abingdon), in the Galapagos, 682 km away; and Malpelo Island (Colombia), 630 km away.
Cocos Island’s land area is 23.85 km2, and the area of protected marine ecosystems encompasses 1,997 km2. The island is 7.6 km long and 4.4 km wide.
Take a minute to visit the www.new7wonders.com site and vote for this gem of nature so it can continue climbing positions in the ranking. Even though it’s already a natural wonder to Costa Ricans, your vote could make it a wonder of the entire world.
Tuesday, June 17, 2008
The latest u.s. department state statement about Costa Rica
Posted by Roger Vlasos
Broker/Owner
Century21 At the Beach
Playas del Coco, Guanacaste, Costa Rica
Website: http://www.century21incostarica.com
Email: roger@century21incostarica.com
June 05, 2008
COUNTRY DESCRIPTION:Costa Rica mapCosta Rica map Costa Rica is a middle-income, developing country with a strong democratic tradition. Tourist facilities are extensive and generally adequate. The capital is San Jose. English is a second language for many Costa Ricans. Read the Department of State Background Notes <http://www.state.gov/r/pa/ei/bgn/2019.htm> on Costa Rica for additional information.
ENTRY/EXIT REQUIREMENTS: For entry into Costa Rica, U.S. citizens must present valid passports that will not expire for at least thirty days after arrival, and a roundtrip/outbound ticket. Some U.S. airlines may not permit passengers to board flights to Costa Rica without such a ticket. Passports should be in good condition; Costa Rican immigration will deny entry if the passport is damaged in any way. Costa Rican authorities generally permit U.S. citizens to stay up to ninety days; to stay beyond the period granted, travelers must 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, 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 may experience a delay at the airport when departing. Persons who overstayed previously may be denied entry to Costa Rica.
Persons traveling to Costa Rica from some countries in South America and Sub-Saharan Africa must provide evidence of a valid yellow fever vaccination prior to entry. The South American countries include Bolivia, Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador and Venezuela.
See “SPECIAL CIRCUMSTANCES” for information on requirements to carry documentation within Costa Rica and on travel by dual national minors.
The most authoritative and up-to-date information on Costa Rican entry and exit requirements may be obtained from the Consular Section of the Embassy of Costa Rica at 2114 “S” Street NW, Washington, DC 20008, telephone (202) 234-2945/46 , fax (202) 265-4795 , e-mail consulate@costarica-embassy.org, web site http://www.costarica-embassy.org <http://www.costarica-embassy.org/> , or from the Costa Rican consulates in Atlanta, Chicago, Houston, Los Angeles, Miami, New Orleans, New York, San Juan (Puerto Rico), San Francisco, and Tampa. The Costa Rican immigration agency web site is http://www.migracion.go.cr <http://www.migracion.go.cr/> . It is advisable to contact the Embassy of Costa Rica in Washington or one of Costa Rica's consulates in the United States for specific information regarding customs requirements before shipping any items.
Visit the Embassy of Costa Rica web site at http://www.costarica-embassy.org <http://www.costarica-embassy.org/> for the most current visa information.
Information about dual nationality or the prevention of international child abduction can be found on our web site. For further information about customs regulations, please read our Customs Information sheet.
SAFETY AND SECURITY: There have been no recent acts of terrorism in Costa Rica. Visitors to Costa Rica may experience the effects of civil disturbances such as work stoppages and strikes. Although infrequent, these acts can create inconveniences for visitors. On both the Caribbean and Pacific coasts, currents are swift and dangerous, and there are few lifeguards or signs warning of dangerous beaches. Every year eight to twelve American citizens drown in Costa Rica due to riptides or sudden drop-offs while in shallow water. Extreme caution is advised.
Adventure tourism is popular in Costa Rica, and many companies offer white-water rafting, bungee jumping, jungle canopy tours, deep sea diving, and other outdoor attractions. Americans are urged to use caution in selecting adventure tourism companies. The government of Costa Rica regulates and monitors the safety of adventure tourism companies; enforcement of safety laws is overseen by the Ministry of Health. Registered tourism companies with operating permits must meet safety standards and have insurance coverage. The safety regulations enforced in Costa Rica are not the same as safety regulations enforced in the United States.
For the latest security information, Americans traveling abroad should regularly monitor the Department of State, Bureau of Consular Affairs’ web site at http://travel.state.gov <http://travel.state.gov/> , where the current Travel Warnings and Travel Alerts, as well as the Worldwide Caution, can be found.
Up-to-date information on safety and security can also be obtained by calling 1-888-407-4747 toll free in the U.S. and Canada, or for callers outside the U.S. and Canada, a regular toll-line at 1-202-501-4444. These numbers are available from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
The Department of State urges American citizens to take responsibility for their own personal security while traveling overseas. For general information about appropriate measures travelers can take to protect themselves in an overseas environment, see the Department of State’s pamphlet A Safe Trip Abroad.
CRIME: Over one and a half million foreign tourists, the majority American, visit Costa Rica annually. All are potential targets for criminals, primarily thieves looking for cash, jewelry, credit cards, electronic items and passports. U.S. citizens are encouraged to exercise the same level of caution they would in major cities or tourist areas throughout the world. Local law enforcement agencies have limited capabilities and do not act according to U.S. standards. Travelers should minimize driving at night, especially outside urban areas.
Americans should avoid areas with high concentrations of bars and nightclubs, especially at night, and steer clear of deserted properties or undeveloped land. For safety reasons, the Embassy does not place its official visitors in hotels in the San Jose city center, but instead puts them at the larger hotels in the outlying suburbs. Americans should walk or exercise with a companion, bearing in mind that crowded tourist attractions and resort areas popular with foreign tourists are common venues for criminal activities. Travelers should ignore any verbal harassment, and avoid carrying passports, large amounts of cash, jewelry or expensive photographic equipment. Tourists are encouraged to carry photocopies of the passport data page and Costa Rican entry stamp on their persons, and leave the original passport in a hotel safe or other secure place. Costa Rican immigration authorities conduct routine immigration checks at locations, such as bars in downtown San Jose and beach communities, frequented by illegal immigrants. American citizens detained during one of these checks who have only a copy of the passport will be required to provide the original passport with appropriate stamps.
Travelers should purchase an adequate level of locally valid theft insurance when renting vehicles, park in secured lots whenever possible, and never leave valuables in the vehicle. The U.S. Embassy receives several reports daily of valuables, identity documents, and other items stolen from locked vehicles, primarily rental cars. Thefts from parked cars occur in downtown San Jose, at beaches, in the airport and bus station parking lots, and at national parks and other tourist attractions.
Travelers should use licensed taxis, which are red with medallions (yellow triangles containing numbers) painted on the side. Licensed taxis at the airport are painted orange. All licensed taxis should have working door handles, locks, seatbelts and meters (called "marias"); passengers are required to use seatbelts. When traveling by bus, avoid putting bags or other personal belongings in the storage bins. At all times have your belongings in your line of sight or in your possession.
Thieves usually work in groups of two to four. A common scam has one person drop change in a crowded area, such as on a bus, and when the victim tries to assist, a wallet or other item is taken. The most prevalent scam involves the surreptitious puncturing of tires of rental cars, often near restaurants, tourist attractions, airports, or close to the car rental agencies themselves. When the travelers pull over, "good Samaritans" quickly appear to change the tire - and just as quickly remove valuables from the car, sometimes brandishing weapons. Drivers with flat tires are advised to drive, if at all possible, to the nearest service station or other public area, and change the tire themselves, watching valuables at all times.
In late 2006, the government of Costa Rica established a Tourist Police force, and units were established in popular tourist areas throughout the country. The Tourist Police can assist with the reporting of a crime, which can be difficult for victims due to language barriers and the requirement that only investigative police can accept crime reports.
INFORMATION FOR VICTIMS OF CRIME: The loss or theft abroad of a U.S. passport should be reported immediately to the local police and the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate. If you are the victim of a crime while overseas, in addition to reporting to local police, please contact the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate for assistance. The Embassy/Consulate staff can, for example, assist you to find appropriate medical care, contact family members or friends and explain how funds could be transferred. Although the investigation and prosecution of the crime is solely the responsibility of local authorities, consular officers can help you to understand the local criminal justice process and to find an attorney if needed.
See our information on Victims of Crime.
MEDICAL FACILITIES AND HEALTH INFORMATION: Medical care in San Jose is adequate, but is limited in areas outside of San Jose. Most prescription and over-the-counter medications are available throughout Costa Rica. Doctors and hospitals often expect immediate cash payment for health services, and U.S. medical insurance is not always valid outside the United States. A list of local doctors and medical facilities can be found at the website of the U.S. Embassy in San Jose, at http://sanjose.usembassy.gov <http://sanjose.usembassy.gov/> . An ambulance may be summoned by calling 911. Most ambulances provide transportation but little or no medical assistance. The best-equipped ambulances are called “unidad avanzada.”
Information on vaccinations and other health precautions, such as safe food and water precautions and insect bite protection, may be obtained from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s hotline for international travelers at 1-877-FYI-TRIP (1-877-394-8747) or via the CDC’s web site at http://wwwn.cdc.gov/travel/default.aspx. For information about outbreaks of infectious diseases abroad consult the World Health Organization’s (WHO) web site at http://www.who.int/en. Further health information for travelers is available at http://www.who.int/ith/en.
MEDICAL INSURANCE: The Department of State strongly urges Americans to consult with their medical insurance company prior to traveling abroad to confirm whether their policy applies overseas and whether it will cover emergency expenses such as a medical evacuation. Please see our information on medical insurance overseas.
TRAFFIC SAFETY AND ROAD CONDITIONS: While in a foreign country, U.S. citizens may encounter road conditions that differ significantly from those in the United States. The information below concerning Costa Rica is provided for general reference only, and may not be totally accurate in a particular location or circumstance.
Costa Rica has one of the highest vehicle accident rates in the world. The fatality rate for pedestrians and those riding bicycles and motorcycles is disproportionately high. Traffic laws and speed limits are often ignored, turns across one or two lanes of traffic are common, turn signals are rarely used, passing on dangerous stretches of highway is common, and pedestrians are not given the right of way. Roads are often in poor condition, and large potholes with the potential to cause significant damage to vehicles are common. Pedestrians, cyclists, and farm animals may use the main roads. Traffic signs, even on major highways, are inadequate and few roads are lined. Shoulders are narrow or consist of drainage ditches. All of the above, in addition to poor visibility due to heavy fog or rain, makes driving at night especially treacherous. Landslides are common in the rainy season. All types of motor vehicles are appropriate for the main highways and principal roads in the major cities. However, some roads to beaches and other rural locations are not paved, and many destinations are accessible only with high clearance, rugged suspension four-wheel drive vehicles. Travelers are advised to call ahead to their hotels to ask about the current status of access roads.
Costa Rica has a 911 system for reporting emergencies. In the event of a traffic accident, vehicles must/must be left where they are. Both the Transito (Traffic Police) and the Insurance Investigator must make accident reports before the vehicles are moved.
Please refer to our Road Safety page for more information. Visit the website of Costa Rica’s national tourist office and national authority responsible for road safety at http://www.mopt.go.cr <http://www.mopt.go.cr/> and www.visitecostarica.com <http://www.visitecostarica.com/> .
AVIATION SAFETY OVERSIGHT: The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has assessed the Government of Costa Rica’s Civil Aviation Authority as being in compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards for oversight of Costa Rica’s air carrier operations. For more information, travelers may visit the FAA’s web site at http://www.faa.gov/safety/programs_initiatives/oversight/iasa.
SPECIAL CIRCUMSTANCES: Land Ownership and Shoreline Property: U.S. citizens are urged to use caution when making real estate purchases, and consult reputable legal counsel and investigate thoroughly all aspects before entering into a contract. Coastal land within fifty meters of the high tide line is open to the public and therefore closed to development, and construction on the next one hundred fifty meters inland is possible only with the approval of the local municipality.
Squatters: Organized squatter groups have invaded properties in various parts of the country. These squatter groups, often supported by politically active persons and non-governmental organizations, take advantage of legal provisions that allow people without land to gain title to unused agricultural property. Local courts may show considerable sympathy for the squatters. Victims of squatters have reported threats, harassment, and violence.
Documentation Requirements: Visitors are required to carry appropriate documentation at all times. However, due to the high incidence of passport theft, tourists are permitted and encouraged to carry photocopies of the datapage and entry stamp from the passport, leaving the passport in a hotel safe or other secure place. However, as noted under CRIME, Costa Rican immigration authorities conduct routine checks for illegal immigrants, especially in bars located in downtown San Jose and in beach communities. An American citizen detained during one of these checks and carrying only the copy of the passport will be required to produce the original passport. Tourists should consider carrying their passports when traveling overnight or a considerable distance from their hotel. Tourists who carry passports are urged to place them securely in an inside pocket.
Exit Procedures for Costa Rican Citizens: Costa Rican children may only depart the country upon presentation of an exit permit issued by immigration authorities. This policy, designed to prevent international child abduction, applies to dual national U.S./Costa Rican citizens. Parents of minors who obtained Costa Rican citizenship through a parent or through birth in Costa Rica are advised to consult with appropriate Costa Rican authorities prior to travel to Costa Rica, especially if one (or both) parent(s) is not accompanying the child.
Disaster Preparedness: Costa Rica is located in an earthquake and volcanic zone. Serious flooding occurs annually on the Caribbean side near the port city of Limon, but flooding occurs in other parts of Costa Rica as well, depending on the time of year and rainfall. General information about natural disaster preparedness is available via the Internet from the U.S. Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) at http://www.fema.gov/.
CRIMINAL PENALTIES: While in a foreign country, a U.S. citizen is subject to that country's laws and regulations, which sometimes differ significantly from those in the United States and may not afford the protections available to the individual under U.S. law. Penalties for breaking the law can be more severe than in the United States for similar offenses. Persons violating Costa Rica’s laws, even unknowingly, may be expelled, arrested or imprisoned. Penalties for possession, use, or trafficking in illegal drugs in Costa Rica are severe, and convicted offenders can expect long jail sentences and heavy fines. Engaging in sexual conduct with children or using or disseminating child pornography in a foreign country is a crime, prosecutable in the United States. Please see our information on Criminal Penalties.
CHILDREN'S ISSUES: For information see our Office of Children’s Issues web pages on intercountry adoption and international parental child abduction.
REGISTRATION / EMBASSY LOCATION: Americans living or traveling in Costa Rica are encouraged to register with the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate through the State Department’s travel registration web site <https://travelregistration.state.gov/ibrs/ui/> so that they can obtain updated information on travel and security within Costa Rica. Americans without Internet access may register directly with the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate. By registering, American citizens make it easier for the Embassy or Consulate to contact them in case of emergency. The U.S. Embassy is located in Pavas, San Jose, and may be reached at (506) 2519-2000; the extension for the Consular Section is 2453. The Embassy is open Monday through Friday, and is closed on Costa Rican and U.S. holidays. Those seeking information are strongly encouraged to utilize the embassy web site http://sanjose.usembassy.gov/, and can email consularsanjose@state.gov with any questions/concerns. For emergencies arising outside normal business hours, U.S. citizens may call (506) 2220-3127 and ask for the duty officer.
This replaces the Country Specific Information for Costa Rica dated August 15, 2007, to update sections on Registration/Embassy Location and Special Circumstances.
Broker/Owner
Century21 At the Beach
Playas del Coco, Guanacaste, Costa Rica
Website: http://www.century21incostarica.com
Email: roger@century21incostarica.com
June 05, 2008
COUNTRY DESCRIPTION:Costa Rica mapCosta Rica map Costa Rica is a middle-income, developing country with a strong democratic tradition. Tourist facilities are extensive and generally adequate. The capital is San Jose. English is a second language for many Costa Ricans. Read the Department of State Background Notes <http://www.state.gov/r/pa/ei/bgn/2019.htm> on Costa Rica for additional information.
ENTRY/EXIT REQUIREMENTS: For entry into Costa Rica, U.S. citizens must present valid passports that will not expire for at least thirty days after arrival, and a roundtrip/outbound ticket. Some U.S. airlines may not permit passengers to board flights to Costa Rica without such a ticket. Passports should be in good condition; Costa Rican immigration will deny entry if the passport is damaged in any way. Costa Rican authorities generally permit U.S. citizens to stay up to ninety days; to stay beyond the period granted, travelers must 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, 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 may experience a delay at the airport when departing. Persons who overstayed previously may be denied entry to Costa Rica.
Persons traveling to Costa Rica from some countries in South America and Sub-Saharan Africa must provide evidence of a valid yellow fever vaccination prior to entry. The South American countries include Bolivia, Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador and Venezuela.
See “SPECIAL CIRCUMSTANCES” for information on requirements to carry documentation within Costa Rica and on travel by dual national minors.
The most authoritative and up-to-date information on Costa Rican entry and exit requirements may be obtained from the Consular Section of the Embassy of Costa Rica at 2114 “S” Street NW, Washington, DC 20008, telephone (202) 234-2945/46 , fax (202) 265-4795 , e-mail consulate@costarica-embassy.org, web site http://www.costarica-embassy.org <http://www.costarica-embassy.org/> , or from the Costa Rican consulates in Atlanta, Chicago, Houston, Los Angeles, Miami, New Orleans, New York, San Juan (Puerto Rico), San Francisco, and Tampa. The Costa Rican immigration agency web site is http://www.migracion.go.cr <http://www.migracion.go.cr/> . It is advisable to contact the Embassy of Costa Rica in Washington or one of Costa Rica's consulates in the United States for specific information regarding customs requirements before shipping any items.
Visit the Embassy of Costa Rica web site at http://www.costarica-embassy.org <http://www.costarica-embassy.org/> for the most current visa information.
Information about dual nationality or the prevention of international child abduction can be found on our web site. For further information about customs regulations, please read our Customs Information sheet.
SAFETY AND SECURITY: There have been no recent acts of terrorism in Costa Rica. Visitors to Costa Rica may experience the effects of civil disturbances such as work stoppages and strikes. Although infrequent, these acts can create inconveniences for visitors. On both the Caribbean and Pacific coasts, currents are swift and dangerous, and there are few lifeguards or signs warning of dangerous beaches. Every year eight to twelve American citizens drown in Costa Rica due to riptides or sudden drop-offs while in shallow water. Extreme caution is advised.
Adventure tourism is popular in Costa Rica, and many companies offer white-water rafting, bungee jumping, jungle canopy tours, deep sea diving, and other outdoor attractions. Americans are urged to use caution in selecting adventure tourism companies. The government of Costa Rica regulates and monitors the safety of adventure tourism companies; enforcement of safety laws is overseen by the Ministry of Health. Registered tourism companies with operating permits must meet safety standards and have insurance coverage. The safety regulations enforced in Costa Rica are not the same as safety regulations enforced in the United States.
For the latest security information, Americans traveling abroad should regularly monitor the Department of State, Bureau of Consular Affairs’ web site at http://travel.state.gov <http://travel.state.gov/> , where the current Travel Warnings and Travel Alerts, as well as the Worldwide Caution, can be found.
Up-to-date information on safety and security can also be obtained by calling 1-888-407-4747 toll free in the U.S. and Canada, or for callers outside the U.S. and Canada, a regular toll-line at 1-202-501-4444. These numbers are available from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
The Department of State urges American citizens to take responsibility for their own personal security while traveling overseas. For general information about appropriate measures travelers can take to protect themselves in an overseas environment, see the Department of State’s pamphlet A Safe Trip Abroad.
CRIME: Over one and a half million foreign tourists, the majority American, visit Costa Rica annually. All are potential targets for criminals, primarily thieves looking for cash, jewelry, credit cards, electronic items and passports. U.S. citizens are encouraged to exercise the same level of caution they would in major cities or tourist areas throughout the world. Local law enforcement agencies have limited capabilities and do not act according to U.S. standards. Travelers should minimize driving at night, especially outside urban areas.
Americans should avoid areas with high concentrations of bars and nightclubs, especially at night, and steer clear of deserted properties or undeveloped land. For safety reasons, the Embassy does not place its official visitors in hotels in the San Jose city center, but instead puts them at the larger hotels in the outlying suburbs. Americans should walk or exercise with a companion, bearing in mind that crowded tourist attractions and resort areas popular with foreign tourists are common venues for criminal activities. Travelers should ignore any verbal harassment, and avoid carrying passports, large amounts of cash, jewelry or expensive photographic equipment. Tourists are encouraged to carry photocopies of the passport data page and Costa Rican entry stamp on their persons, and leave the original passport in a hotel safe or other secure place. Costa Rican immigration authorities conduct routine immigration checks at locations, such as bars in downtown San Jose and beach communities, frequented by illegal immigrants. American citizens detained during one of these checks who have only a copy of the passport will be required to provide the original passport with appropriate stamps.
Travelers should purchase an adequate level of locally valid theft insurance when renting vehicles, park in secured lots whenever possible, and never leave valuables in the vehicle. The U.S. Embassy receives several reports daily of valuables, identity documents, and other items stolen from locked vehicles, primarily rental cars. Thefts from parked cars occur in downtown San Jose, at beaches, in the airport and bus station parking lots, and at national parks and other tourist attractions.
Travelers should use licensed taxis, which are red with medallions (yellow triangles containing numbers) painted on the side. Licensed taxis at the airport are painted orange. All licensed taxis should have working door handles, locks, seatbelts and meters (called "marias"); passengers are required to use seatbelts. When traveling by bus, avoid putting bags or other personal belongings in the storage bins. At all times have your belongings in your line of sight or in your possession.
Thieves usually work in groups of two to four. A common scam has one person drop change in a crowded area, such as on a bus, and when the victim tries to assist, a wallet or other item is taken. The most prevalent scam involves the surreptitious puncturing of tires of rental cars, often near restaurants, tourist attractions, airports, or close to the car rental agencies themselves. When the travelers pull over, "good Samaritans" quickly appear to change the tire - and just as quickly remove valuables from the car, sometimes brandishing weapons. Drivers with flat tires are advised to drive, if at all possible, to the nearest service station or other public area, and change the tire themselves, watching valuables at all times.
In late 2006, the government of Costa Rica established a Tourist Police force, and units were established in popular tourist areas throughout the country. The Tourist Police can assist with the reporting of a crime, which can be difficult for victims due to language barriers and the requirement that only investigative police can accept crime reports.
INFORMATION FOR VICTIMS OF CRIME: The loss or theft abroad of a U.S. passport should be reported immediately to the local police and the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate. If you are the victim of a crime while overseas, in addition to reporting to local police, please contact the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate for assistance. The Embassy/Consulate staff can, for example, assist you to find appropriate medical care, contact family members or friends and explain how funds could be transferred. Although the investigation and prosecution of the crime is solely the responsibility of local authorities, consular officers can help you to understand the local criminal justice process and to find an attorney if needed.
See our information on Victims of Crime.
MEDICAL FACILITIES AND HEALTH INFORMATION: Medical care in San Jose is adequate, but is limited in areas outside of San Jose. Most prescription and over-the-counter medications are available throughout Costa Rica. Doctors and hospitals often expect immediate cash payment for health services, and U.S. medical insurance is not always valid outside the United States. A list of local doctors and medical facilities can be found at the website of the U.S. Embassy in San Jose, at http://sanjose.usembassy.gov <http://sanjose.usembassy.gov/> . An ambulance may be summoned by calling 911. Most ambulances provide transportation but little or no medical assistance. The best-equipped ambulances are called “unidad avanzada.”
Information on vaccinations and other health precautions, such as safe food and water precautions and insect bite protection, may be obtained from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s hotline for international travelers at 1-877-FYI-TRIP (1-877-394-8747) or via the CDC’s web site at http://wwwn.cdc.gov/travel/default.aspx. For information about outbreaks of infectious diseases abroad consult the World Health Organization’s (WHO) web site at http://www.who.int/en. Further health information for travelers is available at http://www.who.int/ith/en.
MEDICAL INSURANCE: The Department of State strongly urges Americans to consult with their medical insurance company prior to traveling abroad to confirm whether their policy applies overseas and whether it will cover emergency expenses such as a medical evacuation. Please see our information on medical insurance overseas.
TRAFFIC SAFETY AND ROAD CONDITIONS: While in a foreign country, U.S. citizens may encounter road conditions that differ significantly from those in the United States. The information below concerning Costa Rica is provided for general reference only, and may not be totally accurate in a particular location or circumstance.
Costa Rica has one of the highest vehicle accident rates in the world. The fatality rate for pedestrians and those riding bicycles and motorcycles is disproportionately high. Traffic laws and speed limits are often ignored, turns across one or two lanes of traffic are common, turn signals are rarely used, passing on dangerous stretches of highway is common, and pedestrians are not given the right of way. Roads are often in poor condition, and large potholes with the potential to cause significant damage to vehicles are common. Pedestrians, cyclists, and farm animals may use the main roads. Traffic signs, even on major highways, are inadequate and few roads are lined. Shoulders are narrow or consist of drainage ditches. All of the above, in addition to poor visibility due to heavy fog or rain, makes driving at night especially treacherous. Landslides are common in the rainy season. All types of motor vehicles are appropriate for the main highways and principal roads in the major cities. However, some roads to beaches and other rural locations are not paved, and many destinations are accessible only with high clearance, rugged suspension four-wheel drive vehicles. Travelers are advised to call ahead to their hotels to ask about the current status of access roads.
Costa Rica has a 911 system for reporting emergencies. In the event of a traffic accident, vehicles must/must be left where they are. Both the Transito (Traffic Police) and the Insurance Investigator must make accident reports before the vehicles are moved.
Please refer to our Road Safety page for more information. Visit the website of Costa Rica’s national tourist office and national authority responsible for road safety at http://www.mopt.go.cr <http://www.mopt.go.cr/> and www.visitecostarica.com <http://www.visitecostarica.com/> .
AVIATION SAFETY OVERSIGHT: The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has assessed the Government of Costa Rica’s Civil Aviation Authority as being in compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards for oversight of Costa Rica’s air carrier operations. For more information, travelers may visit the FAA’s web site at http://www.faa.gov/safety/programs_initiatives/oversight/iasa.
SPECIAL CIRCUMSTANCES: Land Ownership and Shoreline Property: U.S. citizens are urged to use caution when making real estate purchases, and consult reputable legal counsel and investigate thoroughly all aspects before entering into a contract. Coastal land within fifty meters of the high tide line is open to the public and therefore closed to development, and construction on the next one hundred fifty meters inland is possible only with the approval of the local municipality.
Squatters: Organized squatter groups have invaded properties in various parts of the country. These squatter groups, often supported by politically active persons and non-governmental organizations, take advantage of legal provisions that allow people without land to gain title to unused agricultural property. Local courts may show considerable sympathy for the squatters. Victims of squatters have reported threats, harassment, and violence.
Documentation Requirements: Visitors are required to carry appropriate documentation at all times. However, due to the high incidence of passport theft, tourists are permitted and encouraged to carry photocopies of the datapage and entry stamp from the passport, leaving the passport in a hotel safe or other secure place. However, as noted under CRIME, Costa Rican immigration authorities conduct routine checks for illegal immigrants, especially in bars located in downtown San Jose and in beach communities. An American citizen detained during one of these checks and carrying only the copy of the passport will be required to produce the original passport. Tourists should consider carrying their passports when traveling overnight or a considerable distance from their hotel. Tourists who carry passports are urged to place them securely in an inside pocket.
Exit Procedures for Costa Rican Citizens: Costa Rican children may only depart the country upon presentation of an exit permit issued by immigration authorities. This policy, designed to prevent international child abduction, applies to dual national U.S./Costa Rican citizens. Parents of minors who obtained Costa Rican citizenship through a parent or through birth in Costa Rica are advised to consult with appropriate Costa Rican authorities prior to travel to Costa Rica, especially if one (or both) parent(s) is not accompanying the child.
Disaster Preparedness: Costa Rica is located in an earthquake and volcanic zone. Serious flooding occurs annually on the Caribbean side near the port city of Limon, but flooding occurs in other parts of Costa Rica as well, depending on the time of year and rainfall. General information about natural disaster preparedness is available via the Internet from the U.S. Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) at http://www.fema.gov/.
CRIMINAL PENALTIES: While in a foreign country, a U.S. citizen is subject to that country's laws and regulations, which sometimes differ significantly from those in the United States and may not afford the protections available to the individual under U.S. law. Penalties for breaking the law can be more severe than in the United States for similar offenses. Persons violating Costa Rica’s laws, even unknowingly, may be expelled, arrested or imprisoned. Penalties for possession, use, or trafficking in illegal drugs in Costa Rica are severe, and convicted offenders can expect long jail sentences and heavy fines. Engaging in sexual conduct with children or using or disseminating child pornography in a foreign country is a crime, prosecutable in the United States. Please see our information on Criminal Penalties.
CHILDREN'S ISSUES: For information see our Office of Children’s Issues web pages on intercountry adoption and international parental child abduction.
REGISTRATION / EMBASSY LOCATION: Americans living or traveling in Costa Rica are encouraged to register with the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate through the State Department’s travel registration web site <https://travelregistration.state.gov/ibrs/ui/> so that they can obtain updated information on travel and security within Costa Rica. Americans without Internet access may register directly with the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate. By registering, American citizens make it easier for the Embassy or Consulate to contact them in case of emergency. The U.S. Embassy is located in Pavas, San Jose, and may be reached at (506) 2519-2000; the extension for the Consular Section is 2453. The Embassy is open Monday through Friday, and is closed on Costa Rican and U.S. holidays. Those seeking information are strongly encouraged to utilize the embassy web site http://sanjose.usembassy.gov/, and can email consularsanjose@state.gov with any questions/concerns. For emergencies arising outside normal business hours, U.S. citizens may call (506) 2220-3127 and ask for the duty officer.
This replaces the Country Specific Information for Costa Rica dated August 15, 2007, to update sections on Registration/Embassy Location and Special Circumstances.
Golf becoming key aspect of Costa Rican tourism
Source: http://www.journalcr.com
Posted by Roger Vlasos
Broker/Owner
Century21 At the Beach
Playas del Coco, Guanacaste, Costa Rica
Website: http://www.century21incostarica.com
Email: roger@century21incostarica.com
(Infocom) — In Costa Rica, golf has quickly become a key source of foreign currency, employment and hotel occupancy, to the point that every year some 34,000 come here to play the sport.
Travelers’ interest in golfing in Costa Rica is helping generate some $87.6 million annually in food, lodging, recreation and purchase of sport implements, especially considering that a large majority of golfers are people with high purchasing power and take advantage of practicing this sport to do business with colleagues and new clients.
Joseph Kuo, corporate vice president of New York Life Insurance Company, is one of the many golfers who have fallen in love with Costa Rica as a destination for seeking leisure on the links.
“I have played in many sites around the world, but nothing compares to the experience I had in Costa Rica, with very attentive personnel, exquisite scenery and incomparable price,” Kuo said.
Golf’s potential and Costa Rica’s reputation as an exotic destination have contributed to the construction here, in recent years, of new golf courses designed by recognized international golf legends such as Robert Trent Jones II, Greg Norman, Arnold Palmer and Mike Young.
And in the short term, the number of courses are about to increase, because at least six new courses are being planned.
The National Golf Association (Anagolf) has 12 affiliates, including Los Delfines, Valle Del Sol, Cariari Country Club, Conchal GC, Hacienda Pinilla, Los Sueños Marriott, Four Seasons, Monteran, Centro Campero Los Reyes, Costa Rica Country Club, Hotel Punta Islita and Papagayo Golf. Most of them are located in Guanacaste.
Nearby beach hotels in Guanacaste make the courses located in this province very attractive, as visitors can choose between playing golf at the hotel’s course or go to another nearby course. Additionally, the country has begun to position itself in the world as a golf destination, several international tournaments of importance have been organized here (one for charity purposes), and golf magazines and TV channels have broadcast tournaments taking place locally.
The number of top-notch courses, their design and the attention provided by their hosts have been key to attracting more and more golfers to Costa Rica, which is now competing in the region against traditional destinations such as Mexico and the Dominican Republic.
Posted by Roger Vlasos
Broker/Owner
Century21 At the Beach
Playas del Coco, Guanacaste, Costa Rica
Website: http://www.century21incostarica.com
Email: roger@century21incostarica.com
(Infocom) — In Costa Rica, golf has quickly become a key source of foreign currency, employment and hotel occupancy, to the point that every year some 34,000 come here to play the sport.
Travelers’ interest in golfing in Costa Rica is helping generate some $87.6 million annually in food, lodging, recreation and purchase of sport implements, especially considering that a large majority of golfers are people with high purchasing power and take advantage of practicing this sport to do business with colleagues and new clients.
Joseph Kuo, corporate vice president of New York Life Insurance Company, is one of the many golfers who have fallen in love with Costa Rica as a destination for seeking leisure on the links.
“I have played in many sites around the world, but nothing compares to the experience I had in Costa Rica, with very attentive personnel, exquisite scenery and incomparable price,” Kuo said.
Golf’s potential and Costa Rica’s reputation as an exotic destination have contributed to the construction here, in recent years, of new golf courses designed by recognized international golf legends such as Robert Trent Jones II, Greg Norman, Arnold Palmer and Mike Young.
And in the short term, the number of courses are about to increase, because at least six new courses are being planned.
The National Golf Association (Anagolf) has 12 affiliates, including Los Delfines, Valle Del Sol, Cariari Country Club, Conchal GC, Hacienda Pinilla, Los Sueños Marriott, Four Seasons, Monteran, Centro Campero Los Reyes, Costa Rica Country Club, Hotel Punta Islita and Papagayo Golf. Most of them are located in Guanacaste.
Nearby beach hotels in Guanacaste make the courses located in this province very attractive, as visitors can choose between playing golf at the hotel’s course or go to another nearby course. Additionally, the country has begun to position itself in the world as a golf destination, several international tournaments of importance have been organized here (one for charity purposes), and golf magazines and TV channels have broadcast tournaments taking place locally.
The number of top-notch courses, their design and the attention provided by their hosts have been key to attracting more and more golfers to Costa Rica, which is now competing in the region against traditional destinations such as Mexico and the Dominican Republic.
Oceans had their weekend at Ocotal and Playas del Coco
Source: http://www.journalcr.com
Posted by Roger Vlasos
Broker/Owner
Century21 At the Beach
Playas del Coco, Guanacaste, Costa Rica
Website: http://www.century21incostarica.com
Email: roger@century21incostarica.com
(Infocom) — Oceans had a special day picked in their honor last June 8, but in Playas del Coco and Ocotal Beach it was celebrated starting on Saturday and throughout the weekend through cleanup campaigns and presentations about sharks.
The activities were in charge of the Proyecto de Luz organization, which was the sponsor. Also collaborating were companies such as Ocotal Beach Resort, Safari Diving, Restaurante Donde Claudio y Gloria, Rich Coast Diving, Arte y Movimiento. The Sea Turtle Restoration Program (PRETOMA). The Keto Foundation also supported these activities in honor of World Ocean Day, along with Florida Bebidas. On Saturday, PRETOMA put together a movie forum around the film Sharkwater, by Rob Stewart, which aims to debunk stereotypes about sharks.
In addition to the cleanup efforts that took place at Playa Ocotal on Saturday, on Sunday the community of Playas del Coco also did its best to improve conditions at the beach by collecting garbage. Many school kids from the area helped in the cleanup.
Following a hard day of work picking up trash, the children had the change to enjoy ocean art and sand sculptures, as well as helping painter Carlos Hiller paint a mural on the Reach Coast Diving building. Hiller and some 70 children painted a colorful reef on the building’s outside wall, as 2008 is International Coral Reef Year. The artist also painted a shark to create awareness among the children about the issue of shark finning that is threatening populations of this amazing sea creature.
Ocotal Beach Resort Dive Shop is also planning to send a boat with divers this week to clean waste disposed of by fishermen.
Additionally, the Proyecto de Luz Foundation took advantage of the celebration to set up a VIP tent where wine, cheese and music were offered to collect funds for its initiatives to benefit children in the communities it serves. Also part of the activity was an auction of several items donated by collaborators, including a painting by Hiller.
Posted by Roger Vlasos
Broker/Owner
Century21 At the Beach
Playas del Coco, Guanacaste, Costa Rica
Website: http://www.century21incostarica.com
Email: roger@century21incostarica.com
(Infocom) — Oceans had a special day picked in their honor last June 8, but in Playas del Coco and Ocotal Beach it was celebrated starting on Saturday and throughout the weekend through cleanup campaigns and presentations about sharks.
The activities were in charge of the Proyecto de Luz organization, which was the sponsor. Also collaborating were companies such as Ocotal Beach Resort, Safari Diving, Restaurante Donde Claudio y Gloria, Rich Coast Diving, Arte y Movimiento. The Sea Turtle Restoration Program (PRETOMA). The Keto Foundation also supported these activities in honor of World Ocean Day, along with Florida Bebidas. On Saturday, PRETOMA put together a movie forum around the film Sharkwater, by Rob Stewart, which aims to debunk stereotypes about sharks.
In addition to the cleanup efforts that took place at Playa Ocotal on Saturday, on Sunday the community of Playas del Coco also did its best to improve conditions at the beach by collecting garbage. Many school kids from the area helped in the cleanup.
Following a hard day of work picking up trash, the children had the change to enjoy ocean art and sand sculptures, as well as helping painter Carlos Hiller paint a mural on the Reach Coast Diving building. Hiller and some 70 children painted a colorful reef on the building’s outside wall, as 2008 is International Coral Reef Year. The artist also painted a shark to create awareness among the children about the issue of shark finning that is threatening populations of this amazing sea creature.
Ocotal Beach Resort Dive Shop is also planning to send a boat with divers this week to clean waste disposed of by fishermen.
Additionally, the Proyecto de Luz Foundation took advantage of the celebration to set up a VIP tent where wine, cheese and music were offered to collect funds for its initiatives to benefit children in the communities it serves. Also part of the activity was an auction of several items donated by collaborators, including a painting by Hiller.
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