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With nature and wildlife surrounding you everywhere you go, souvenir shops on every corner and its pristine beaches that that fill with tourists. These are just some of the major factors that have brought 1,030,000 tourists in the first semester of 2008. This indicates that there were 89,178 more visitors at this same period in 2007. A rise in growth of around 13%. These totals were obtained from the Camara Nacional de Tourismo (canatur). This information is based on entry registration at the Juan Santamaria airport in Alajuela, and the Daniel Oduber airport, in Liberia. The Minister of Tourism, Carlos Benavides, has obviously used his time wisely so far by hunting down the tourists, despite a descending economy and soaring gas prices in the US. Carlos Ricardo credits his success to the large amount of marketing Costa Rica has done recently, focusing mainly on the US and European markets. In recent day he has created an alliance with Panama’s Minister of tourism and famous singer/actor Ruben Blades. Both Ministers have created lucrative packages for the Europeans and will work together, in order to attract these visitors to Costa Rica and Panama. Panama has made large improvements in recent years but still lacks the Hotel infrastructure that Costa Rica possesses. Ruben Blades also expressed ideas on how Costa Rica could fix its desperate situation with roads and highway. Something I’m sure all Costa Ricans and its visitors would appreciate. Let’s hope that 2 heads are better than one, and that these two neighbors can work together to better themselves and their countries.
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The production of the Country has continued to maintain a steady growth, but at a decreasing rate, according to the (PIB). In The first three months of the year the value of Costa Rican real estate rose 5.8% in respect of the first trimester of 2007 showing us a smaller growth cycle for the future. A smaller growth cycle implies that the ticos will have fewer opportunities to increase their family income. A major factor that influences the deceleration is the slow growth of Costa Rica’s exports such as, bananas, coffee, flowers, seafood and computer chips. This has all been slowed due to the slow economy and recession in the United States. Exports in Costa Rica have meant a large amount of growth for the country in past years and to see that decline can be a somewhat intimidating for some Costa Ricans. The one thing that kept this boat afloat in recent years has been the outside investment from foreigners and the Costa Rican consumers, although with high gas prices and the cost of food beginning to rise, one questions how long they can depend on the consumer to bail them out. Obviously it can’t always be sunny days without a cloud in the sky, but when you live in Costa Rica you tend to get used to living in paradise and forget about how your world can be easily affected by change. I lived in Costa Rica since 1994 and have experienced all the major changes that have affected the country in that period of time and I feel that we need to embrace whatever comes our way and just keep riding that wave to the promised land, because that’s where we live, the promised land.
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The institute of tourism (ICT) has decided that they need to once again focus on the US Tourist as their prime targets. The ICT will launch a massive promotional campaign throughout the United States in order to hunt down those much desired tourists for the summer high season. Advertisements in some of the most prestigious travelling magazines, public buses and even bathrooms of US restaurants are the targets that the Minister of Tourism, Carlos Ricardo Benavides has decided to tackle in his search for US tourists. The Minister announced yesterday that he has already purchased the publications that will be used. National Geographic, Smithsonian and Conde Nast Traveler are some of the magazines that will show ads for Costa Rica. According to the ICT, 60% of the 1.9 million tourists who visited Costa Rica last year came from the United States. With the majority of these visitors coming from states ,such as, California, New York, Texas and Florida, which have always been the most prominent for US tourists. Although the housing market in the US in one of the worst slumps of recent decades. The Costa Rican government realizes that the US will still be their main focus for Tourism and there is no reason to direct that focus in another direction. The ICT has definitely learned one thing. Always stick to your bread and butter.
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The Costa Rican’s are expected to hit the beaches this vacation season. Says a study realized by (canatur) Camara Nacional de Turisimo expects an increase of at least 36% for Costa Rican nationals during the mid year vacations. Last year around 110,000 national tourists headed to different areas of the country in search of rest and relaxation during this part of the season and much more are expected for this year. Canatur also revealed that the most popular destinations for national tourists this time of year are, the North Pacific, Central Pacific and Monteverde. A lot of these areas now account with nature parks where people can enjoy the real Costa Rican experience of nature, wildlife and local traditions. Turu ba ri, one of Costa Rica’s most diverse tropical parks which has turned into a major destination for foreign and national tourists is expecting their numbers to sky rocket during the mid year vacations. Turu ba ri accounts with multiple tours of nature and plenty of wildlife. There is over 150 different species of birds in the park to see and they also have a crocodile pit with a 10 mt balcony from which to view them. If you like, you’re more than welcome to take a dip in their swimming pool or have lunch in one of their 3 local cuisine restaurants. If planning a trip to Costa Rica I highly recommend a stop at Tu Ru Bari Tropical Park for a good trip with the family and the perfect place to relax and celebrate your stay in Beautiful Costa Rica.
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Two months after the concession of the new Flamingo Marina was awarded to Desarrollo Matapalo Demm S.A. The Municipality of Santa Cruz , Guanacaste will be analyzing the requirements put forward by the developers due to two companies that have requested a review of the process. This agreement establishes the suspension of the judicial process of that company to develop the project of the Flamingo Marina. On April 12 of 2008, The Santacruzenos awarded the rights to Desarrollo Matapalo SA and they had committed to invest over 91 million dollars in the construction of the Marina in Bahia Potrero. The project is to consist of 420 slips, 18 for local fisherman, a hotel and a commercial center for shopping and entertainment. This is obviously a very coveted project for any developer so one understands the competition that has gone on with the rival development companies. I have used the current Flamingo Marina in the past on many occasions and feel that is definitely in need of an upgrade. Prices around Flaming and Potrero have begun to sore and they will continue to do so until the Marina is built. Many investors are already seeking a good property close by where they can sit their money, and hopefully watch it grow over night. In the mean time I will just sit back and watch them duke it out.
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Due to popular demand, the exclusive condominium development of La Meridiana has decided to make another 32 additional 1 bed room units. The units are 583 sq ft up to 720 sq ft, with unique floor plans that create a large amount of living space. The 1 bedroom units start at $95,000 and go up to $125,000, depending on the unit’s location and the sq meters per condo. The new units make for a great investment considering all the construction that has begun in the Huacas area, and the high probability that your condo will be rented throughout the year. The units will still have access to all the amenities that come with the larger 2 and 3 bedroom units such as a tennis court, fitness center, barbeque area and swimming pools, which makes these units one of a kind. La Meridiana is offering for the month of June the following the offers. 1. 3% discount from the sales price 2. 100 green fees for buyer and direct family in Hacienda Pinilla. 3. 10 weeks rental guaranteed on first year. These units are expected to sell like hot cakes. So if you’re looking for a well equipped condo with all the amenities at a low price. Then La Meridiana could be a great option for you and your family.
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Reports began to surface during the week that the troubled pop star was in Costa Rica soaking up the sun On the Barrigona beach of Guanacaste. Brittney who recently has been in the spot light for her custody battle with Keven Federline decided on Costa Rica as a getaway and relax vacation where she could spend some time reflecting on herself.
What appears to be nothing more than just a friendly weekend getaway, Gibson and Spears were also joined by Spears’ father Jaime and Gibson’s wife Robyn. Brittney spent the weekend riding atv’s and riding the waves at Mel Gibsons Farm in Samara Guanacaste. Mel Gibson Purchased his hidden Paradise last Year for a mere sum of $25 million and also met with President, Oscar Arias to express efforts to assist the people of Costa Rica
News that Gibson has said he is “mentoring” Spears and that “a getaway” was discussed. The two friends first raised eyebrows last March when they were spotted dining together, along with friends, at Studio City eatery Romanov. At the time, sources insisted that no professional collaboration between the two stars was in the works, but that Gibson was merely looking to help the troubled pop star. Hopefully this trip to Costa Rica can help Spears as it does for so many looking to get away and relax in a beautiful country like Costa Rica.
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Although the date of his arrival has not been set in stone, the United States now accounts with a new ambassador in Costa Rica. Peter Cianchette was officially sworn in yesterday as the United States Ambassador to Costa Rica. Cianchette, originally from the south of Portland, Maine, was selected to substitute Mark Langdale who resigned his position to assume other responsibilities for the government of George W Bush. The X Executive of Dragon Products Company, one of principal manufacturing companies of cement and concrete of Maine, demonstrated joy and content to be designated to work in the country. The Embassy stated that that they did not have an arrival date set for the diplomat, nor when he is to assume his responsibilities as Ambassador. Cianchette owns his own business in the United States, Cianchette Enterprises Inc, a consulting firm for public affairs and administration. He is also a member of the National Republican Committee in Maine. In 2002 He was the Republican Candidate for Governor of Maine, after starting to work at a state consulting firm in Public affairs.
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The surfers and swimmers of the popular beach town of Tamarindo may once again rely on the watchful eye of three recently reinstated lifeguards. Thanks to a program that was put back into the circulation last month, officials strategically placed three new towers on the most needed spots of tamarindo's beach. The three towers will have on duty life guards from 6am till 6pm seven days a week ensuring the safety of all its visitors. The program was brought to life after officials were able to collect $2500 from local hotels and community businesses. All lifeguards are to be certified by the National Association of lifeguards in Costa Rica and receive instruction on first aid, special saving techniques and other important details regarding this practice. This type of service is vital to a beach such as Tamarindo, who receives anywhere from 100 to 150 surfers a day, foreign and domestic. Many beaches throughout Costa Rica do not account with a life guard organization and may have had to pay the price by loosing swimmers and surfers to rip currents. In the next coming weeks the association to Better Tamarindo, run by the National chamber of tourism will try to bring the amount up to $3000 to cover all additional details and expenses and ensure that Costa Ricans and tourists receive adequate protection.
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After the euro reached a historic mark of $1.60 last week, analysts have begun to speculate about its future behavior. An analysis made by Bloomberg, one of the most important providers of world economic information, states that the euro will begin to depreciate in the third trimester of 2008. One of the main factors is the recent behavior of the euro in the last months, showing a strong tendency to climb in value. You must also take into consideration that the European market has shown a healthy and stable climb, with a growth of 3.1% in the first trimester and an unemployment rate of 6.9% With all these factors you may now add the depreciation of the dollar and the high prices of oil which have not shown any change in decrease in the recent months leading up to this week. Knowing that in this market absolutely nothing is for sure, but some economist believe that the euro will remain above $1.50 for a decent period of time and in the mean time the cost of oil will be over $110 a barrel. The problem could be heightened with companies that register most of their sales to foreign countries. They might begin to see their goods and services have a much greater level of competiveness in the countries that use the dollar. A high appreciation of the euro against the dollar imposes a threat to the European businesses and a threat to the economy.
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Costa Rica was recently placed first in Latin America and ninth in the world in respect to countries who offer commercial freedom and security for private business. The restriction on foreigners starting their own business in Costa Rica is not what you might expect. There are only a handful of bumps in the road to get yourself up in running in this central American paradise. Once you’ve established you’re business plan you must take into credit that you need to know the local consumer market in order to get off the ground and stay afloat. The country’s consumers are mainly located in the central valley of San Jose with 60% of its population under 30 years of age. This is the market that you would want to focus on. You may also ask yourself the question, do we want to target the tourist and upper class of Costa Rica? Many of the Upper class ticos have a pretty decent income and a much greater power to purchase high end imported products that the middle class would not. Just look at their expensive cars, designer clothes and luxurious home’s. These are all signs that there is money to be spent by the upper class. Start up costs for small businesses are less than in the United States or Canada. Many of the same types of businesses that have been successful in the North America will work if researched correctly. There is definitely a need for these types of businesses. You just have to do your homework and explore the market. Be aware that not everything that works in the United States will work here. Also you may have to adapt your idea due to the vagaries of the local market and different purchasing power. Always consult with an attorney for your permits and legal aspects to avoid any future troubles that will come washing up unannounced, and go at it with an open mind, let’s remember this is Costa Rica not Wall Street and we are their guests.
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Costa Rica remains one of the safest and one of the most attractive countries to do business in. Many of the services have English-speaking owners CEOs and management who have traveled to the U.S, and some have been educated in the U.S - giving them the ability to offer great services. The Costa Rican government maintains a pro-U.S. and continental stance in regard to financial security and tax laws. The aim is to attract high-tech corporations to take advantage of Central America's most educated, computer literate and disciplined workforce; many Forbes 500 companies operate out of Costa Rica. The city of Santa Anna (right outside of San José) is in economical grown because of this and has begun to expand in all directions. The economy is being transformed from its long-time dependence on coffee, bananas and cattle rising to one centered on microprocessor production and high-tech telecommunications services that are providing thousands of jobs to the Costa Rica population. Many are saying, Costa Rica is becoming the "The Silicon Valley" of Latin America. At the moment we must say that Costa Rica is definitely on the rise and for all of us here in Costa Rica we would be fools not to take advantage of the opportunity. Large companies with Online and Internet marketing services are now playing an important role in Costa Rica Business along with a jump in online products in wholesale and retail. This isn’t the country from 15 years ago, that is for sure.
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A new decree by The Costa Rican President Oscar Arias will now enforce height and density restrictions within four kilometers of the coast in Guanacaste. This is an emergency zoning plan that would apply to any areas that do not have current zoning plans. In the case that a new zoning plan is to come into play it would be replaced by the existing plan. This came about after numerous complaints by Guanacaste residents that the construction of towers and condos is out of control and not being overseen by the Municipality or any government officials. This decree is to cover the next 4 years of this province and eventually set the standard for the province of Guanacaste. The accelerated development in the area has sparked this decree and hopefully will slow down the saturation of construction in this area which some think has become out of control. This new Decree breaks down into four simple categories. Land within 50 meters of the high-tide line remains public property, and construction within that limit is strictly forbidden without special permission, in accordance with Maritime Zone Law. The next 150 meters also falls under the Maritime Zone Law, but this may be superseded by municipalities through concessions. This restriction also applies to legally titled land under the Maritime Zone. The 800 meters after the Maritime Zone is to be classified as “intermediate” zone. Any buildings in this area will not be allowed to raise more than five stories. The building heights with the next 3 kilometers will be restricted to a maximum of eight floors, although this does not prevent all the developers who presented plans 6 months prior to this law from building structures higher than the restrictions, they will be exempt from this new law. Guanacaste remains the province with the second most construction growth just behind San Jose, according to the Association of Engineers and Architects. The Government of Costa Rica has plans to extend the decree to other coastal areas in the country to make sure they do not let things grow to high.
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Saudi billionaire, Prince Al-Waleed bin Talal bin Abdul Aziz Al Saud, arrived in Costa Rica this week, saying he wanted to build six hotels in the country, two of them in the Gulf of Papagayo in Guanacaste.
Prince Al-Waleed, whose Kingdom Holding Company is the biggest foreign investor in the United States, announced his hotel investment plan after a 30-minute meeting with President Oscar Arias in Casa Presidencial.
The investments are likely to be made through the Raffles and Fairmont chains of hotels.
We are exploring the opportunity of making additional investments in Costa Rica, Prince Al-Waled said.
The Four seasons Hotel operating in Papagayo has placed Costa Rica on the radar of the five-star hotel customers of the world, he added.
It is too early to talk about amounts to invest and time terms. However the project development companies are discussing the convenience of establishing the Raffles and Fairmont hotels in this country.
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Museo Nacional de Costa Rica: (The National Museum of Costa Rica)
Founded in 1888, during a time in which the country was re-settling its ideals, exchanging conservative views for liberal ideals and working on strengthening the principles of peace, industrial progress and education. The purpose of the museum was to gather and exhibit the country’s natural treasures, and those display documents and objects of historical significance. In addition, it was to assume the role of a scientific research and didactic institution to serve primary and secondary educational establishments of the Republic. Today, the museum is comprised of various collections on the subjects of anthropology, and national and natural history. It aims to demonstrate the formation of our social identity and make knowledgeable about the significance that bicultural diversity has on the development of a Costa Rican identity.
- Location: Between Central and Second Avenue, on 17th street, near Cuesta de Moras, adjacent to the Plaza de la Democracia.
- Schedule: Open Monday through Friday, from 8:00 am to 4:30 pm.
- Rates: Costa Rican Citizens ¢500 (Wednesdays are free) Foreigners $4, for foreign students with ID $2
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