Costa Rica: May 2007
Costa RicaThursday, May 31, 2007
Violence against women
Latinamerica Press: Article: "A new law increases prison sentences for women abusers.
After a seven years of congressional and high court debates, a law was finally approved in mid-April to make violence against women in Costa Rica a criminal offense.
Under the new Criminalization of Violence against Women law, physical and psychological violence against adult women within a romantic relationship will now be a felony punishable by imprisonment.
The April 12 law creates the crime of “femicide,” which will carry a prison sentence of 20 to 35 years for husbands or boyfriends who kill their partners, and between 15 to 18 years for those who force their female partners into sexual relations against their will.
Men who consistently insult, ridicule and verbally abuse their wives and girlfriends could also face prison sentences of six months to two years, and those who threaten them could receive up to a four-year sentence.
For Ana Carcedo, president of the Feminist Information and Action Center, one of the organizations that had promoted the law, “the most important impact of this law will be seen in long-term, since it will be a cultural one, when it is finally accepted that violence against women is a crime, the state commits itself to intervening, punishing this violence, and sends those who do it to jail.”
But she added "
After a seven years of congressional and high court debates, a law was finally approved in mid-April to make violence against women in Costa Rica a criminal offense.
Under the new Criminalization of Violence against Women law, physical and psychological violence against adult women within a romantic relationship will now be a felony punishable by imprisonment.
The April 12 law creates the crime of “femicide,” which will carry a prison sentence of 20 to 35 years for husbands or boyfriends who kill their partners, and between 15 to 18 years for those who force their female partners into sexual relations against their will.
Men who consistently insult, ridicule and verbally abuse their wives and girlfriends could also face prison sentences of six months to two years, and those who threaten them could receive up to a four-year sentence.
For Ana Carcedo, president of the Feminist Information and Action Center, one of the organizations that had promoted the law, “the most important impact of this law will be seen in long-term, since it will be a cultural one, when it is finally accepted that violence against women is a crime, the state commits itself to intervening, punishing this violence, and sends those who do it to jail.”
But she added "
Labels: central america, costa rica, costarica, san jose
CAFTA Read Fine Print
Don't Forget to Read the Trade Deal's Fine Print - Embassy - Newspaper Online.: "The Costa Rican Supreme Court has announced plans to review the United States- Central American Free Trade Agreement (CAFTA) to assess the impact of that agreement upon civil liberties and human rights.
Meanwhile, Costa Ricans will get a chance to vote in a national referendum on whether to approve the agreement.
It's rare that trade agreements are subjected to such searching scrutiny–much less forced to steer between a gauntlet of the courts and the electorate.
A generation ago, former Canadian trade minister John Crosbie could idly boast that he had not bothered to read the Canada-U.S. Free Trade Agreement–even as he encouraged Parliament to adopt it.
These days, that kind of talk could get you impeached in parts of Latin America, where politicians, the courts and even ordinary citizens are reaching for their reading glasses.
A big part of the reason for the heightened scrutiny of such deals is that 'free trade agreement' has become an outdated misnomer.
Sure, 'free trade' agreements remove barriers to the flow of goods between countries–but they do much more as well.
'Free trade' agreements may dictate which sectors of an economy will be opened to foreign takeovers. They may dictate domestic public policies for sensitive "
Meanwhile, Costa Ricans will get a chance to vote in a national referendum on whether to approve the agreement.
It's rare that trade agreements are subjected to such searching scrutiny–much less forced to steer between a gauntlet of the courts and the electorate.
A generation ago, former Canadian trade minister John Crosbie could idly boast that he had not bothered to read the Canada-U.S. Free Trade Agreement–even as he encouraged Parliament to adopt it.
These days, that kind of talk could get you impeached in parts of Latin America, where politicians, the courts and even ordinary citizens are reaching for their reading glasses.
A big part of the reason for the heightened scrutiny of such deals is that 'free trade agreement' has become an outdated misnomer.
Sure, 'free trade' agreements remove barriers to the flow of goods between countries–but they do much more as well.
'Free trade' agreements may dictate which sectors of an economy will be opened to foreign takeovers. They may dictate domestic public policies for sensitive "
Labels: cafta, central america, costa rica, costarica, san jose, travel
Sovereignty over San Juan River
People's Daily Online -- Nicaragua reaffirms sovereignty over San Juan River: "Nicaragua reaffirms sovereignty over San Juan River
The head of Nicaragua's armed forces on Wednesday restated the nation's sovereignty over the disputed San Juan River marking its border with Costa Rica.
Army Chief Omar Halleslevens made a public statement on the matter one day after Nicaragua presented a report to The Hague Tribunal over the river.
The Nicaraguan report was in response to an earlier report presented by Costa Rica.
Costa Rica had said in its report it recognizes Nicaragua's sovereignty over the river. However, it also said it wishes to patrol the river with armed coast guards, something that Nicaragua opposes.
In his statement, Halleslevens said Costa Rica must first ratify the sovereignty of the river, which passes through the Nicaraguan provinces of Rivas, Chontales and Boaco.
'Starting from this point, we are certain that all the suggestions that Nicaragua makes via its foreign ministry are rightful,' he said.
Nicaragua's report to The Hague Tribunal said that it has never barred Costa Rica from commercial navigation in the river, and that this is in line with the Jerez-Cana Limit Treaty between the two countries.
The San Juan River, which marks the border of the two countries but runs through Nicaraguan territory, has been a disputed area since 1998"
The head of Nicaragua's armed forces on Wednesday restated the nation's sovereignty over the disputed San Juan River marking its border with Costa Rica.
Army Chief Omar Halleslevens made a public statement on the matter one day after Nicaragua presented a report to The Hague Tribunal over the river.
The Nicaraguan report was in response to an earlier report presented by Costa Rica.
Costa Rica had said in its report it recognizes Nicaragua's sovereignty over the river. However, it also said it wishes to patrol the river with armed coast guards, something that Nicaragua opposes.
In his statement, Halleslevens said Costa Rica must first ratify the sovereignty of the river, which passes through the Nicaraguan provinces of Rivas, Chontales and Boaco.
'Starting from this point, we are certain that all the suggestions that Nicaragua makes via its foreign ministry are rightful,' he said.
Nicaragua's report to The Hague Tribunal said that it has never barred Costa Rica from commercial navigation in the river, and that this is in line with the Jerez-Cana Limit Treaty between the two countries.
The San Juan River, which marks the border of the two countries but runs through Nicaraguan territory, has been a disputed area since 1998"
Labels: central america, costa rica, costa rica real estate, costarica, san jose, travel
group Citi in Central America
Business News Americas - Latin America's Business Information Leader: "US financial services group Citi (NYSE: C) will focus on capturing a greater share of wallet of its customer bases in Central America, Citi Global Consumer Group CEO for Latin America Raúl Anaya told BNamericas.
'Holding a greater share of customer business makes a difference, makes relationships much more stable and more productive,' Anaya said.
This year, Citi expanded its footprint in Central America - where it handled some US$1bn in banking assets at end-2006 - by snapping up the main units of two regional financial services groups with a combined client base of 2.25mn and combined assets of US$6.6bn at the time of purchase.
Last March, the US firm closed the acquisition of a number of companies from Grupo Financiero Uno for an undisclosed sum. And this month, the company completed the purchase for US$1.51bn of almost all the subsidiaries of Grupo Cuscatlán from Panama-based Corporación UBCI, the subsidiaries' holding company.
'The three businesses [Citi, Cuscatlán, Uno] are highly complementary as each specializes in different business segments,' Anaya said.
While Citi's portfolios are filled with corporate clients, Uno's units specialize in the credit card business and Cuscatlán has tapped the SME sector, he added.
The group has not decided"
'Holding a greater share of customer business makes a difference, makes relationships much more stable and more productive,' Anaya said.
This year, Citi expanded its footprint in Central America - where it handled some US$1bn in banking assets at end-2006 - by snapping up the main units of two regional financial services groups with a combined client base of 2.25mn and combined assets of US$6.6bn at the time of purchase.
Last March, the US firm closed the acquisition of a number of companies from Grupo Financiero Uno for an undisclosed sum. And this month, the company completed the purchase for US$1.51bn of almost all the subsidiaries of Grupo Cuscatlán from Panama-based Corporación UBCI, the subsidiaries' holding company.
'The three businesses [Citi, Cuscatlán, Uno] are highly complementary as each specializes in different business segments,' Anaya said.
While Citi's portfolios are filled with corporate clients, Uno's units specialize in the credit card business and Cuscatlán has tapped the SME sector, he added.
The group has not decided"
Labels: central america, costa rica, costa rica real estate, costarica, san jose, travel
CAFTA
Latin Business Chronicle: "Costa Rica is seeing strong economic and trade growth and a boost in foreign investments, but uncertainty around CAFTA.
BY JOACHIM BAMRUD
Cesar Trujillo is bullish on Costa Rica. As general manager in Costa Rica for Hewlett-Packard, the world's largest PC manufacturer, he supervises an operation that has gone from 400 employees to nearly 5,000 in less than four years. HP is so happy with Costa Rica that it has opened two separate offices there. One for sales and marketing for Central America and the other offering global outsourcing services to the corporate clients.
'Costa Rica continues to become a major hot-spot for multinational companies looking to establish their operations centers in the Central American region,' he says.
Foreign direct investment last year grew by a whopping 66.8 percent to $1.4 billion. That was more than the other four Central American nations combined. It was also the highest level within the CAFTA trade group, which also includes the Dominican Republic.
'The economy is doing very well,' says Isaac Cohen, president of U.S.-based..."
BY JOACHIM BAMRUD
Cesar Trujillo is bullish on Costa Rica. As general manager in Costa Rica for Hewlett-Packard, the world's largest PC manufacturer, he supervises an operation that has gone from 400 employees to nearly 5,000 in less than four years. HP is so happy with Costa Rica that it has opened two separate offices there. One for sales and marketing for Central America and the other offering global outsourcing services to the corporate clients.
'Costa Rica continues to become a major hot-spot for multinational companies looking to establish their operations centers in the Central American region,' he says.
Foreign direct investment last year grew by a whopping 66.8 percent to $1.4 billion. That was more than the other four Central American nations combined. It was also the highest level within the CAFTA trade group, which also includes the Dominican Republic.
'The economy is doing very well,' says Isaac Cohen, president of U.S.-based..."
Labels: cafta, central america, costa rica, costarica, san jose
EXPOTOUR 2007 Tourism Buyers to Costa Rica
Online Daily update to The Tico Times Weekly Edition Newspaper, Gays in Costa Rica Call for End to Discrimination, Costa Rica Finishes First Four Months of Year With Slight Financial Surplus: "Let the negotiations begin. EXPOTUR 2007 kicked off yesterday with the participation of 445 tourism-related companies at the Hotel Herradura conference center in Cariari, northwest of San José, as buyers gathered from all over the world to partake in Costa Rica's $1.7 billion tourism industry.
The event, hosted by the Costa Rican Association of Tourism Professionals (ACOPROT), has been taking place annually since 1984 and is the largest of its kind in the country.
The fair's growth has been slowed in recent years by the tight quarters at the convention center, and ACOPROT President Carlos Lizama said that the number of foreign buyers is down as a result.
However, according to an ACOPROT press release, 32% of the buyers at EXPOTUR this year represent “virgin” markets for Costa Rica, including Central European countries such as Poland and Latvia, as well as Nigeria, India, and the United Arab Emirates.
“You can see that the Costa Rican tourism product has improved year after year,” Lizama said.
The convention center was packed to the gills with slick booths featuring flat screen TVs and little cups of Café Britt-brand coffee. Some 150 internation"
The event, hosted by the Costa Rican Association of Tourism Professionals (ACOPROT), has been taking place annually since 1984 and is the largest of its kind in the country.
The fair's growth has been slowed in recent years by the tight quarters at the convention center, and ACOPROT President Carlos Lizama said that the number of foreign buyers is down as a result.
However, according to an ACOPROT press release, 32% of the buyers at EXPOTUR this year represent “virgin” markets for Costa Rica, including Central European countries such as Poland and Latvia, as well as Nigeria, India, and the United Arab Emirates.
“You can see that the Costa Rican tourism product has improved year after year,” Lizama said.
The convention center was packed to the gills with slick booths featuring flat screen TVs and little cups of Café Britt-brand coffee. Some 150 internation"
Labels: central america, costa rica, costa rica real estate, costarica, san jose, travel
Wednesday, May 30, 2007
Costa Rica Primates Study Finds
Color Vision Drove Primates To Develop Red Skin And Hair, Study Finds: "You might call it a tale of 'monkey see, monkey do.' Researchers at Ohio University have found that after primates evolved the ability to see red, they began to develop red and orange skin and hair.
Humans, apes and Old World monkeys, such as macaques and leaf monkeys, all have trichromatic vision, which allows these primates to distinguish between blue, green and red colors. Primatologists have disagreed about whether this type of color vision initially evolved to help early primates forage for ripe fruit and young, red leaves among green foliage or evolved to help them select mates.
Now a new study published online this week in American Naturalist by Ohio University researchers André Fernandez and Molly Morris rules out an initial advantage for mating and suggests that red-color vision evolved for non-social purposes, possibly foraging. But once developed, trichromaticism drove the evolution of red skin and hair through sexual selection.
Fernandez, the study's lead author, first began to question the strict correlation of food choice and color vision while studying howler monkeys in Costa Rica. He recently compiled data on the color vision, social and sexual habits and red skin and pelage of 203 different primate species.
The researchers then used a phylogenetic tree representing the evolutionary rela"
Humans, apes and Old World monkeys, such as macaques and leaf monkeys, all have trichromatic vision, which allows these primates to distinguish between blue, green and red colors. Primatologists have disagreed about whether this type of color vision initially evolved to help early primates forage for ripe fruit and young, red leaves among green foliage or evolved to help them select mates.
Now a new study published online this week in American Naturalist by Ohio University researchers André Fernandez and Molly Morris rules out an initial advantage for mating and suggests that red-color vision evolved for non-social purposes, possibly foraging. But once developed, trichromaticism drove the evolution of red skin and hair through sexual selection.
Fernandez, the study's lead author, first began to question the strict correlation of food choice and color vision while studying howler monkeys in Costa Rica. He recently compiled data on the color vision, social and sexual habits and red skin and pelage of 203 different primate species.
The researchers then used a phylogenetic tree representing the evolutionary rela"
Labels: central america, costa rica, costa rica real estate, costarica, san jose, travel
Coastal Challenge Nepal Trek
Adventure Racing: Coastal Challenge, Nepal Trek Partner Up | broadbandsports.com: "The Coastal Challenge and the Nepal Trek and Trail Run have formed a strategic alliance to help promote both events to new audiences around the globe.
Set on different sides of the world, The Coastal Challenge, now in its fourth season in Costa Rica, and the new Nepal Trek and Trail Run scheduled for November in its namesake country, have forged a partnership in order to expand on each organization's strong networks, pursue relevant cross-promotional activities and provide participants with a broader range of options when it comes to travel with like-minded organizations. The partnership will help each event capitalize on their similarities as well as their differences.
'While our formats may differ, both events embody the spirit of adventure and speak to a growing audience that is seeking out an enriching and life affirming travel experience whether racing across Costa Rica or trekking through Nepal,' said Tim Holmstrom, race director for The Coastal Challenge.
The Coastal Challenge, which has become one of the world's toughest long distance running competitions, is a six-day, 200+ km foot race through remote sections of Costa Rica. The Nepal Trek and"
Set on different sides of the world, The Coastal Challenge, now in its fourth season in Costa Rica, and the new Nepal Trek and Trail Run scheduled for November in its namesake country, have forged a partnership in order to expand on each organization's strong networks, pursue relevant cross-promotional activities and provide participants with a broader range of options when it comes to travel with like-minded organizations. The partnership will help each event capitalize on their similarities as well as their differences.
'While our formats may differ, both events embody the spirit of adventure and speak to a growing audience that is seeking out an enriching and life affirming travel experience whether racing across Costa Rica or trekking through Nepal,' said Tim Holmstrom, race director for The Coastal Challenge.
The Coastal Challenge, which has become one of the world's toughest long distance running competitions, is a six-day, 200+ km foot race through remote sections of Costa Rica. The Nepal Trek and"
Labels: central america, costa rica, costa rica real estate, costarica, san jose, travel
New Free-Zone Inaugurated in Costa Rica
New Free-Zone Inaugurated in Costa Rica: "Zeta Group yesterday inaugurated construction of a free-zone in Cartago, east of San José, that it expects to attract close to $60 million in investment and create thousands of jobs.
This new free-zone, called Techno Park, is an expansion of the Cartago Industrial Park, and sits alongside garment manufacturers such as Hanes and Levi Straus. Techno Park seeks to attract call centers, technical support centers and other computer and communications businesses that focus on service, reflecting the economy's continuing move away from manufacturing investment in favor of service, vending, and assembly businesses, according to Zeta Group vice-president Cesar Zingone.
“The tendency of the country is toward more specialized labor,” Zingone said. “We're responding to that.”
Techno Park has already attracted $4 million in investment. Zeta Group expects the 15-hectare plot to host 25 companies, with a total of 100,000 square meters of building space, and eventually attract $60 million in investment.
The project will generate 5,000 jobs in the short term, Zingone said, and could employ 8,000 to 9,000 workers within five years, depending on the performance of the economy."
This new free-zone, called Techno Park, is an expansion of the Cartago Industrial Park, and sits alongside garment manufacturers such as Hanes and Levi Straus. Techno Park seeks to attract call centers, technical support centers and other computer and communications businesses that focus on service, reflecting the economy's continuing move away from manufacturing investment in favor of service, vending, and assembly businesses, according to Zeta Group vice-president Cesar Zingone.
“The tendency of the country is toward more specialized labor,” Zingone said. “We're responding to that.”
Techno Park has already attracted $4 million in investment. Zeta Group expects the 15-hectare plot to host 25 companies, with a total of 100,000 square meters of building space, and eventually attract $60 million in investment.
The project will generate 5,000 jobs in the short term, Zingone said, and could employ 8,000 to 9,000 workers within five years, depending on the performance of the economy."
Labels: central america, costa rica, costa rica real estate, costarica, san jose, travel
First Five Star Resort On Costa Rica's Atlantic Coast
Luxury Real Estate - The First Five-Star Resort On Costa Rica's Atlantic Coast Announced by Regional Expert Yalile Alpízar: At the Luxury Real Estate Spring Retreat in Key Biscayne, Fla. Yalile Alpízar, the president and owner of CostaRicaLuxuryEstates.com, presented an innovative project
Date Released: 05/30/2007
At the Luxury Real Estate Spring Retreat in Key Biscayne, Fla. Yalile Alpízar, the president and owner of CostaRicaLuxuryEstates.com, presented an innovative project along the Atlantic coast. This project is called IslaMoin, and it is the first five-star marina to be built between Puerto Vallarta, Mexico and the Panama Canal. IslaMoin will also be the first five-star resort on the Atlantic coast of Costa Rica.
For the first time in Costa Rica's history, there will be a luxury resort, residential community and marina development on the Atlantic side of the country. This location is outside the hurricane zone and is convenient for those who enjoy boating or yachting. An international airport is located within 15 minutes, along with a major sea port that is home to several cruise lines.
This unique location provides views of the water from all angles: from the dramatic ocean views, deep-water canals and a natural river that flows through IslaMoin. It is a commun"
Date Released: 05/30/2007
At the Luxury Real Estate Spring Retreat in Key Biscayne, Fla. Yalile Alpízar, the president and owner of CostaRicaLuxuryEstates.com, presented an innovative project along the Atlantic coast. This project is called IslaMoin, and it is the first five-star marina to be built between Puerto Vallarta, Mexico and the Panama Canal. IslaMoin will also be the first five-star resort on the Atlantic coast of Costa Rica.
For the first time in Costa Rica's history, there will be a luxury resort, residential community and marina development on the Atlantic side of the country. This location is outside the hurricane zone and is convenient for those who enjoy boating or yachting. An international airport is located within 15 minutes, along with a major sea port that is home to several cruise lines.
This unique location provides views of the water from all angles: from the dramatic ocean views, deep-water canals and a natural river that flows through IslaMoin. It is a commun"
Labels: central america, costa rica, costa rica real estate, costarica, san jose
Tuesday, May 29, 2007
Some forest birds can survive in agricultural countryside with limited habitat conservation
Some forest birds can survive in agricultural countryside with limited habitat conservation: "Some tropical forest birds can survive alongside humans if given a helping hand, according to a recent study by Cagan H. Sekercioglu, senior scientist at the Stanford University Center for Conservation Biology.
Anzeige
The results, published in the April 2007 issue of the journal Conservation Biology, could influence the way countries approach endangered species protection in agricultural areas, Sekercioglu said. 'Even modest restoration efforts can increase their land cover and help some forest birds more than you would think,' he said.
The study was conducted in Costa Rica at the Las Cruces Biological Station of the Organization for Tropical Studies, where most of the forested terrain has been converted to open coffee plantations or pasture—unfavorable habitats for birds, according to Sekercioglu. In previous studies, researchers had identified nearly 200 bird species in coffee plantations by simply capturing or observing them there. 'If you do that, you might think, 'Well, these birds are doing fine in coffee plantations,' Sekercioglu said.
However, he felt that simply seeing the birds in coffee plantations was not sufficient evidence to conclude that they had adapted to life outside their native habitat. Sekercioglu wanted to follow the birds more closely. He and his"
Anzeige
The results, published in the April 2007 issue of the journal Conservation Biology, could influence the way countries approach endangered species protection in agricultural areas, Sekercioglu said. 'Even modest restoration efforts can increase their land cover and help some forest birds more than you would think,' he said.
The study was conducted in Costa Rica at the Las Cruces Biological Station of the Organization for Tropical Studies, where most of the forested terrain has been converted to open coffee plantations or pasture—unfavorable habitats for birds, according to Sekercioglu. In previous studies, researchers had identified nearly 200 bird species in coffee plantations by simply capturing or observing them there. 'If you do that, you might think, 'Well, these birds are doing fine in coffee plantations,' Sekercioglu said.
However, he felt that simply seeing the birds in coffee plantations was not sufficient evidence to conclude that they had adapted to life outside their native habitat. Sekercioglu wanted to follow the birds more closely. He and his"
Labels: central america, costa rica, costa rica real estate, costarica, san jose, travel
S. Korea and Costa Rica
People's Daily Online -- Costa Rica, S. Korea to enhance political consultations: "Costa Rica and South Korea on Monday signed a memorandum of understanding to set up political consultations, the Cost Rican Foreign Ministry said.
The agreement was signed by Costa Rican Foreign Minister Bruno Stagno and the South Korean Ambassador Cho Byoung-lip. The first political meeting is set for June 8 in Costa Rica's capital, San Jose.
The agreement created the legal framework for signing new political agreements between the two nations, who established diplomatic relations in 1962, Stagno said.
Stagno described South Korea as a friend and an ally, who will help Cost Rica strengthen its relations with Asia. Costa Rica plans to open embassies in Singapore and India.
He added that Costa Rica also hopes to join the Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation forum.
Cho described Monday's agreement as the first step toward a series of meetings, which will prioritize mutual development and closer inter-governmental relations.
'It is the first time this mechanism has been set up on a continuous basis and it will boost cooperation and friendship between the two nations,' Cho said."
The agreement was signed by Costa Rican Foreign Minister Bruno Stagno and the South Korean Ambassador Cho Byoung-lip. The first political meeting is set for June 8 in Costa Rica's capital, San Jose.
The agreement created the legal framework for signing new political agreements between the two nations, who established diplomatic relations in 1962, Stagno said.
Stagno described South Korea as a friend and an ally, who will help Cost Rica strengthen its relations with Asia. Costa Rica plans to open embassies in Singapore and India.
He added that Costa Rica also hopes to join the Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation forum.
Cho described Monday's agreement as the first step toward a series of meetings, which will prioritize mutual development and closer inter-governmental relations.
'It is the first time this mechanism has been set up on a continuous basis and it will boost cooperation and friendship between the two nations,' Cho said."
Labels: central america, costa rica, costa rica real estate, costarica, san jose
Mel Gibson buys $25.8m ranch in Costa Rica
DNA - After Hrs - Mel Gibson buys $25.8m ranch in Costa Rica - Daily News & Analysis: "SAN JOSE: US actor and director Mel Gibson has purchased a $25.8 million ranch that sprawls across 163 hectares (402 acres) on Costa Rica's Pacific coast, the Spanish news agency EFE said.
The property was acquired by a corporation controlled by the director of 'The Passion of the Christ', and the purchase closed on April 30.
The ranch faces Barrigona Beach in Guanacaste province on Costa Rica's northern Pacific coast, some 300 km west of San Jose and where urban and touristic development is minimal.
In the area where the property is located, most of the inhabitants live off ranching and farming in a wooded, mountainous landscape bordered by beautiful beaches.
Locals seemed enthusiastic about their new neighbour, but some say the purchase of the ranch will cost them jobs, since apparently Gibson has no plans for any type of economic activity on his property and will only use it as a vacation home.
The previous owner had houses on the land for rental by tourists and engaged in other tourism-related activities that kept 13 workers employed, a number that will drop to six as Gibson takes over.
In recent years the actor has been a frequent visitor to Costa Rica, which led to speculation in the press that he was looking for possible locations for his movies or was"
The property was acquired by a corporation controlled by the director of 'The Passion of the Christ', and the purchase closed on April 30.
The ranch faces Barrigona Beach in Guanacaste province on Costa Rica's northern Pacific coast, some 300 km west of San Jose and where urban and touristic development is minimal.
In the area where the property is located, most of the inhabitants live off ranching and farming in a wooded, mountainous landscape bordered by beautiful beaches.
Locals seemed enthusiastic about their new neighbour, but some say the purchase of the ranch will cost them jobs, since apparently Gibson has no plans for any type of economic activity on his property and will only use it as a vacation home.
The previous owner had houses on the land for rental by tourists and engaged in other tourism-related activities that kept 13 workers employed, a number that will drop to six as Gibson takes over.
In recent years the actor has been a frequent visitor to Costa Rica, which led to speculation in the press that he was looking for possible locations for his movies or was"
Labels: central america, costa rica, costa rica real estate, costarica, mel gibson costa rica, travel
Monday, May 28, 2007
New Flights Available to Costa Rica
Online Daily update to The Tico Times Weekly Edition Newspaper, Gays in Costa Rica Call for End to Discrimination, Costa Rica Finishes First Four Months of Year With Slight Financial Surplus: "U.S. travelers to Costa Rica now have a wider selection of flights thanks to two airlines, Frontier and Spirit, recently creating new routes here.
Frontier Airlines has announced it will begin flying from the U.S. city of Denver, Colorado, to Costa Rica four times a week beginning Nov. 30.
The flights from Denver to Juan Santamaría International Airport, just northwest of San José, and from this airport back to Denver will be offered Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Sundays, according to the airline's Web site. Introductory fares begin at $149 each way, not including taxes and fees.
The airline is also offering connecting flights to Denver from U.S. cities including Austin, Chicago, Dallas, Nashville, San Diego and Salt Lake City.
Additionally, Civil Aviation has given the go ahead to Spirit Airlines to open a route between the U.S. city of Los Angeles and San José, according to a statement from the Costa Rican Tourism Institute (ICT).
This was the final step necessary for this budget airline to begin flying here three times a week. It has yet to announce the date it plans to launch this new route, reported the wire service ACAN-EFE.
Spirit beg"
Frontier Airlines has announced it will begin flying from the U.S. city of Denver, Colorado, to Costa Rica four times a week beginning Nov. 30.
The flights from Denver to Juan Santamaría International Airport, just northwest of San José, and from this airport back to Denver will be offered Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Sundays, according to the airline's Web site. Introductory fares begin at $149 each way, not including taxes and fees.
The airline is also offering connecting flights to Denver from U.S. cities including Austin, Chicago, Dallas, Nashville, San Diego and Salt Lake City.
Additionally, Civil Aviation has given the go ahead to Spirit Airlines to open a route between the U.S. city of Los Angeles and San José, according to a statement from the Costa Rican Tourism Institute (ICT).
This was the final step necessary for this budget airline to begin flying here three times a week. It has yet to announce the date it plans to launch this new route, reported the wire service ACAN-EFE.
Spirit beg"
Labels: central america, costa rica, costa rica real estate, costarica, san jose, travel
culture of Costa Rica
MySA.com: Travel & City Guide: San Antonio teacher explores education, culture of Costa Rica
"'To see a world in a grain of sand
And a heaven in a wild flower,
Hold infinity in the palm of your hand
And eternity in an hour.'
This is the first quatrain of a poem called Auguries of Innocence by poet and artist William Blake. In the past, I have asked my students what these lines meant, and until I visited Costa Rica, I really didn't understand them beyond a literal translation. In Costa Rica, I truly began to comprehend the depth of the lines.
Costa Rica is a small country making big environmental differences. Costa Ricans are on the forefront of ecotourism and sustainable development. The rain forest is such a place of natural beauty and wonders that one cannot help but feel a sense of spirituality in it. Time and space, according to Blake, can be internal concepts.
During the 10 days I spent meeting and talking to Costa Rican elementary and high school students, teachers and administrators, exploring pre-Columbian archaeological sites, or admiring the intricate beauty of the interior of the Metropolitan Cathedral in San Jose, I tried to live in the moment. Small details, beauty, time and space are concepts that are ubiquitous. They are in the places you go and the people you meet. It is inescapable. It's Costa Rica.
Education
We toured two elementary schools "
"'To see a world in a grain of sand
And a heaven in a wild flower,
Hold infinity in the palm of your hand
And eternity in an hour.'
This is the first quatrain of a poem called Auguries of Innocence by poet and artist William Blake. In the past, I have asked my students what these lines meant, and until I visited Costa Rica, I really didn't understand them beyond a literal translation. In Costa Rica, I truly began to comprehend the depth of the lines.
Costa Rica is a small country making big environmental differences. Costa Ricans are on the forefront of ecotourism and sustainable development. The rain forest is such a place of natural beauty and wonders that one cannot help but feel a sense of spirituality in it. Time and space, according to Blake, can be internal concepts.
During the 10 days I spent meeting and talking to Costa Rican elementary and high school students, teachers and administrators, exploring pre-Columbian archaeological sites, or admiring the intricate beauty of the interior of the Metropolitan Cathedral in San Jose, I tried to live in the moment. Small details, beauty, time and space are concepts that are ubiquitous. They are in the places you go and the people you meet. It is inescapable. It's Costa Rica.
Education
We toured two elementary schools "
Labels: central america, costa rica, costa rica real estate, costarica, san jose, travel
Snorkeling Costa Rica
courant.com | Costa Rica Snorkeling Is Worth Extra Effort: Q: We're traveling to Costa Rica in June. Are there resorts where we can snorkel off the beach?
A: Coast Rica's coastline touches the Pacific and Caribbean, yet its shallow waters are hardly teeming aquariums. "Snorkeling is not off the beaches like in Belize," says Orlando Burgos, owner of Costa Rica Travel Guide (877-786-6826, www.costaricatravelguide.com), which specializes in Latin America. "You need to journey a little bit."
"Burgos adds that while many of the country's resorts have beach access and snorkeling, the best look at marine life requires a drive or boat ride.
Some of the best snorkeling, for example, rests inside national parks. Manuel Antonio, on the central Pacific coast, has pockets of good snorkeling, such as in the tidal pools of Playa Espadilla Sur and around the coral reefs of Playa Manuel Antonio. In Cahuita, on the Caribbean, snorkelers can explore a coral reef aswarm with sea fans, tropical fish, green turtles and other critters.
Cocos Island, nearly 345 miles off the Pacific coast, is the ultimate underwater experience. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, it has been compared to the Galapagos Islands. Reaching the park, which has no accommodations, is an adventure unto itself: The boat trip from Puntarenas can take up to 36 hours. For a less arduous adventure, take a snorkel tour to the Murcielago Islands in the Guanacaste region, along the northern Pacific coast. The islands are rife with whale sharks, manta rays and dolphins."
A: Coast Rica's coastline touches the Pacific and Caribbean, yet its shallow waters are hardly teeming aquariums. "Snorkeling is not off the beaches like in Belize," says Orlando Burgos, owner of Costa Rica Travel Guide (877-786-6826, www.costaricatravelguide.com), which specializes in Latin America. "You need to journey a little bit."
"Burgos adds that while many of the country's resorts have beach access and snorkeling, the best look at marine life requires a drive or boat ride.
Some of the best snorkeling, for example, rests inside national parks. Manuel Antonio, on the central Pacific coast, has pockets of good snorkeling, such as in the tidal pools of Playa Espadilla Sur and around the coral reefs of Playa Manuel Antonio. In Cahuita, on the Caribbean, snorkelers can explore a coral reef aswarm with sea fans, tropical fish, green turtles and other critters.
Cocos Island, nearly 345 miles off the Pacific coast, is the ultimate underwater experience. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, it has been compared to the Galapagos Islands. Reaching the park, which has no accommodations, is an adventure unto itself: The boat trip from Puntarenas can take up to 36 hours. For a less arduous adventure, take a snorkel tour to the Murcielago Islands in the Guanacaste region, along the northern Pacific coast. The islands are rife with whale sharks, manta rays and dolphins."
Labels: central america, costa rica, costa rica real estate, costarica, san jose, travel
Hacienda Matapalo Costa Rica
Hacienda Matapalo Costa Rica being represented in Dallas by Real Estate Expo: "REAL ESTATE EXPO/MARY ROSALES ANNOUNCES MARKETING ARRANGEMENT FOR LUXURY OCEANVIEW GATED COMMUNITY IN COSTA RICA:
Rowlett, Texas, May 27, 2007: Investors Realty representing Pegasus Star; a Costa Rican based company has come into an agreement with Real Estate Expo/ Mary Rosales to market the remaining villas and home sites of Phase One of the multiphase project.
Hacienda Matapalo is a 665 acre parcel located on the central South Pacific Coast in Costa Rica.
Located on the Costenera Highway (Pacific Coast Highway), this gated community has been praised for its surroundings of natural beauty and amazing wildlife. The amenities will be unrivaled in the area including a beach club, equestrian center, tennis, a well appointed clubhouse, infinity edge pool and spas, concierge service, and a rental program.
The New York Post recently published an article that Hollywood knows that Costa Rica is the place to be. Big hitters like Vince Vaughn, Kate Moss, Matthew McConaughey, Mel Gibson, Harrison Ford, Sting, Giselle Bundchen and Leo DiCaprio have supposedly looked at property in the area." Hacienda Matapalo Costa Rica
Rowlett, Texas, May 27, 2007: Investors Realty representing Pegasus Star; a Costa Rican based company has come into an agreement with Real Estate Expo/ Mary Rosales to market the remaining villas and home sites of Phase One of the multiphase project.
Hacienda Matapalo is a 665 acre parcel located on the central South Pacific Coast in Costa Rica.
Located on the Costenera Highway (Pacific Coast Highway), this gated community has been praised for its surroundings of natural beauty and amazing wildlife. The amenities will be unrivaled in the area including a beach club, equestrian center, tennis, a well appointed clubhouse, infinity edge pool and spas, concierge service, and a rental program.
The New York Post recently published an article that Hollywood knows that Costa Rica is the place to be. Big hitters like Vince Vaughn, Kate Moss, Matthew McConaughey, Mel Gibson, Harrison Ford, Sting, Giselle Bundchen and Leo DiCaprio have supposedly looked at property in the area." Hacienda Matapalo Costa Rica
Labels: central america, costa rica, costa rica real estate, costarica, san jose, travel
Students to study in Costa Rica
Print - Students to teach in Belize, study in Costa Rica: "Although Lloyd High School biology teacher Jerry Gels makes a trip to Costa Rica each year with students, there's one aspect of the trip that stays new to him.
'The biggest thrill for me is watching the students' reaction when we arrive,' said Gels. 'It's like watching little kids on Christmas morning ... all the things they've learned about all year in textbooks are right there in front of them.'
Mountains, an active volcano, endangered species and miles of vegetation greet students each year, according to Gels, and create a very different learning environment outside the classroom for students interested in environmental science.
'I've had students tell me they learned more about biology during our weeklong trip to Costa Rica than they did in four years of science classes,' he said.
This year, Gels is leading a group of about 30 on the trip, which begins June 10. A few parents and teachers will help him chaperone students from Lloyd, Newport Central Catholic, Xavier and Villa Madonna.
While the annual ecotourism trip does support Costa Rica's local economy, Gels decided to coordinate another trip in Central America with more of a focus on service.
That's when he teamed up with Lloyd social studies teacher Jon Davis earlier this "
'The biggest thrill for me is watching the students' reaction when we arrive,' said Gels. 'It's like watching little kids on Christmas morning ... all the things they've learned about all year in textbooks are right there in front of them.'
Mountains, an active volcano, endangered species and miles of vegetation greet students each year, according to Gels, and create a very different learning environment outside the classroom for students interested in environmental science.
'I've had students tell me they learned more about biology during our weeklong trip to Costa Rica than they did in four years of science classes,' he said.
This year, Gels is leading a group of about 30 on the trip, which begins June 10. A few parents and teachers will help him chaperone students from Lloyd, Newport Central Catholic, Xavier and Villa Madonna.
While the annual ecotourism trip does support Costa Rica's local economy, Gels decided to coordinate another trip in Central America with more of a focus on service.
That's when he teamed up with Lloyd social studies teacher Jon Davis earlier this "
Labels: central america, costa rica, costa rica real estate, costarica, san jose, travel
Saturday, May 26, 2007
Alterra proposal
Business News Americas - Latin America's Business Information Leader: "A six-member technical committee in Costa Rica has deemed 'feasible' a proposal from the International Finance Corporation-led group of banks and capital San José's Juan Santamaría international airport operator Alterra Partners, local daily La Nación reported.
The proposal would extend airport operator Alterra's US$172mn concession to modernize the airport, but had to be resubmitted because it contains modifications to the proposal originally submitted to civil aviation board CTAC in January, BNamericas reported previously.
The report issued by the six-member committee - consisting of two representatives from CTAC, two representatives from public management contract inspector OFGI, and two representatives from the International Finance Corporation (IFC) - recommended approving these modifications.
The changes would extend Alterra's contract to operate at Juan Santamaría from 20 to 25 years, and provide the company a nine-year extension to pay off its US$90mn debt to the IFC, pushing its repayment deadline back to 2024, from the original 2015, the paper reported.
'We hope that the CTAC does not diverge from the technical committee's finding, approves the report and sends it in the form of an addendum to the national comptroller to be ratified, enabling us to continue with the airport modern"
The proposal would extend airport operator Alterra's US$172mn concession to modernize the airport, but had to be resubmitted because it contains modifications to the proposal originally submitted to civil aviation board CTAC in January, BNamericas reported previously.
The report issued by the six-member committee - consisting of two representatives from CTAC, two representatives from public management contract inspector OFGI, and two representatives from the International Finance Corporation (IFC) - recommended approving these modifications.
The changes would extend Alterra's contract to operate at Juan Santamaría from 20 to 25 years, and provide the company a nine-year extension to pay off its US$90mn debt to the IFC, pushing its repayment deadline back to 2024, from the original 2015, the paper reported.
'We hope that the CTAC does not diverge from the technical committee's finding, approves the report and sends it in the form of an addendum to the national comptroller to be ratified, enabling us to continue with the airport modern"
Labels: central america, costa rica, costa rica real estate, costarica, san jose, travel
Costa Rica greenhouse gas emissions
Reuters AlertNet - Costa Rica aims to win "carbon neutral" nation race: "Green trail-blazer Costa Rica is drawing up plans to cut its net greenhouse gas emissions to zero before 2030, the government said on Thursday, and aims to be the first nation to offset all its carbon.
Environment Minister Roberto Dobles said the tiny, jungle-cloaked Central American nation would clean up its fossil fuel-fired power plants, promote hybrid vehicles and increase tree planting to balance its emissions.
'The goal is to be carbon neutral,' Dobles told Reuters. 'We'd like to do it in the next 20 years.' He said Costa Rica would also eliminate net emissions of other greenhouse gases.
Costa Rica is a leader on green issues, with protected areas like national parks and biological reserves covering more than a quarter of its territory.
The country generates 78 percent of its energy with hydroelectric power and another 18 percent by wind or geothermally. It now plans to cut emissions from transport, farming and industry.
Faced with mounting evidence that burning fossil fuels is the main cause of global warming, many nations and companies are looking at ways to reduce their net carbon output.
In April, world number five oil exporter Norway said it was aiming to get rid of its net greenhouse gas emissions by 2050.
The EU says it will cut emissions 20-30 percent by 2020"
Environment Minister Roberto Dobles said the tiny, jungle-cloaked Central American nation would clean up its fossil fuel-fired power plants, promote hybrid vehicles and increase tree planting to balance its emissions.
'The goal is to be carbon neutral,' Dobles told Reuters. 'We'd like to do it in the next 20 years.' He said Costa Rica would also eliminate net emissions of other greenhouse gases.
Costa Rica is a leader on green issues, with protected areas like national parks and biological reserves covering more than a quarter of its territory.
The country generates 78 percent of its energy with hydroelectric power and another 18 percent by wind or geothermally. It now plans to cut emissions from transport, farming and industry.
Faced with mounting evidence that burning fossil fuels is the main cause of global warming, many nations and companies are looking at ways to reduce their net carbon output.
In April, world number five oil exporter Norway said it was aiming to get rid of its net greenhouse gas emissions by 2050.
The EU says it will cut emissions 20-30 percent by 2020"
Labels: central america, costa rica, costa rica real estate, san jose, travel
Chinese madeTainted Toothpaste
Costa Rica Seizes Tainted Toothpaste | Chicago Tribune: "Health officials said Friday they have seized more than 350 tubes of Chinese-made toothpaste tainted with a deadly chemical reportedly found in tubes sold elsewhere in the world.
Health Secretary Maria Luisa Avila said 56 tubes of toothpaste containing diethylene glycol, a chemical commonly used in antifreeze and brake fluid, were found in the northern city of Liberia, and 306 more were seized from a warehouse in the capital of San Jose.
Avila also said her department issued a nationwide alert although there have been no reports of anyone falling ill.
China has formed a government task force to investigate after contaminated toothpaste was also found in Australia, the Dominican Republic and Panama.
Diethylene glycol, or DEG, is a thickening agent used as a low-cost -- but frequently deadly -- substitute for glycerin, a sweetener commonly used in drugs.
DEG was blamed for the deaths of at least 51 people in Panama last year after it was mixed into cough syrup, another case with possible ties to China."
Health Secretary Maria Luisa Avila said 56 tubes of toothpaste containing diethylene glycol, a chemical commonly used in antifreeze and brake fluid, were found in the northern city of Liberia, and 306 more were seized from a warehouse in the capital of San Jose.
Avila also said her department issued a nationwide alert although there have been no reports of anyone falling ill.
China has formed a government task force to investigate after contaminated toothpaste was also found in Australia, the Dominican Republic and Panama.
Diethylene glycol, or DEG, is a thickening agent used as a low-cost -- but frequently deadly -- substitute for glycerin, a sweetener commonly used in drugs.
DEG was blamed for the deaths of at least 51 people in Panama last year after it was mixed into cough syrup, another case with possible ties to China."
Labels: central america, costa rica, costa rica real estate, san jose
Friday, May 25, 2007
charity in Costa Rica
The Oshkosh West Index - Athletic donations touch down in Costa Rica: "In an attempt to reach out across the globe, the Spanish honor society, Diego Rivera, together with former student Caroline Nielson, put together a charity drive for students in Costa Rica. Working with phy ed teacher and Snowblast coordinator Joe Wagner, Diego Rivera adviser Kathy Heinen headed the drive. They asked for gently used and new sports equipment that was to be sent down to Costa Rica to Nielson.
“Caroline Nielson is a former Spanish student, and she’s in the Peace Corps right now,” said Heinen. “She contacted me and asked if we could have a pen pal thing. So, first semester, my Spanish 4 students would be pen pals with students. We talked about what we could do to help, and we just brainstormed ideas about that.”
After coming up with an idea to help, Diego Rivera had to concoct a way to generate interest for the drive. So, Heinen took advantage of the timing, and contacted Wagner.
“Diego Rivera members suggested that we work with Snowblast, because we know that teams are always looking for points,” said Heinen. “It was really nice that Mr. Wagner included us in Snowblast.”
The drive was a huge success. The desire for team points and the ease by which they could be acquired inspired many to donate sports equip"
“Caroline Nielson is a former Spanish student, and she’s in the Peace Corps right now,” said Heinen. “She contacted me and asked if we could have a pen pal thing. So, first semester, my Spanish 4 students would be pen pals with students. We talked about what we could do to help, and we just brainstormed ideas about that.”
After coming up with an idea to help, Diego Rivera had to concoct a way to generate interest for the drive. So, Heinen took advantage of the timing, and contacted Wagner.
“Diego Rivera members suggested that we work with Snowblast, because we know that teams are always looking for points,” said Heinen. “It was really nice that Mr. Wagner included us in Snowblast.”
The drive was a huge success. The desire for team points and the ease by which they could be acquired inspired many to donate sports equip"
Labels: central america, costa rica, costa rica real estate, san jose, travel
and Taiwan
Taipei Times - archives: "Costa Rica has never considered changing its longstanding diplomatic relations with Taiwan, Costa Rica's Acting Foreign Minister Edgar Ugalde Alvarez said on Wednesday during an interview with the Central News Agency (CNA).
Ugalde Alvarez added that Costa Rica has maintained cordial diplomatic ties with Taiwan for more than 60 years and that bilateral relations have continued to grow steadily.
Costa Rica has done nothing to warrant Taiwan's suspicion of its motivations, he said.
He said that all bilateral cooperative projects had been very conducive to Costa Rica's national development, and any report about its dissatisfaction with Taiwan's aid projects was sheer speculation.
Ugalde is meeting Taiwanese Minister of Foreign Affairs James Huang (黃志芳) and other representatives of Taiwan's allies in the region in Belize today.
He further clarified Costa Rica's stance on Taiwan's bid to join the WHO, saying his country had never opposed Taiwan's membership bid.
In a May 14 vote at the WHO headquarters in Geneva, Costa Rica unexpectedly voted against the proposal initiated by Taiwan's other allies to include Taiwan's membership bid on the agenda of the ongoing World Health Assembly (WHA), the WHO's decision-making arm.
Ugalde argued that what Costa Rica opposed was a 'rearrangement of the WHA meeting agenda,' not Taiwan's WHO"
Ugalde Alvarez added that Costa Rica has maintained cordial diplomatic ties with Taiwan for more than 60 years and that bilateral relations have continued to grow steadily.
Costa Rica has done nothing to warrant Taiwan's suspicion of its motivations, he said.
He said that all bilateral cooperative projects had been very conducive to Costa Rica's national development, and any report about its dissatisfaction with Taiwan's aid projects was sheer speculation.
Ugalde is meeting Taiwanese Minister of Foreign Affairs James Huang (黃志芳) and other representatives of Taiwan's allies in the region in Belize today.
He further clarified Costa Rica's stance on Taiwan's bid to join the WHO, saying his country had never opposed Taiwan's membership bid.
In a May 14 vote at the WHO headquarters in Geneva, Costa Rica unexpectedly voted against the proposal initiated by Taiwan's other allies to include Taiwan's membership bid on the agenda of the ongoing World Health Assembly (WHA), the WHO's decision-making arm.
Ugalde argued that what Costa Rica opposed was a 'rearrangement of the WHA meeting agenda,' not Taiwan's WHO"
Labels: central america, costa rica, costa rica real estate, san jose, taiwan costa rica, travel
Thursday, May 24, 2007
CAFTA
CalTrade Report - Costa Rica Will Hold Referendum on CAFTA: "Dealing a major blow to the White House’s expansive free trade agenda, Costa Rica’s President Oscar Arias has said his country will hold a referendum on whether the country's legislature should ratify the Central America Free Trade Agreement.
Known as CAFTA, the trade pact is in force in much of Central America, but has faced vocal resistance from opposition lawmakers in Costa Rica.
'For the first time, Costa Ricans ... will be able to directly decide the future of a very important law for the country,' Arias said at a recent news conference in the capital of San Jose.
The referendum, which could take place within the next three months, opens the possibility that Costa Rica might well reject the deal altogether.
Some recent opinion polls in the Central American country show backing for CAFTA is waning, with less than 40% of those polled in full support of the trade pact.
Costa Rica is the only participant whose legislature hasn’t ratified the agreement.The move would make Costa Rica the first country to hold a referendum to decide the issue, rather than have Congress vote.
The other participants in CAFTA are the Dominican Republic, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua.
Arias made passing the pact into law a central part of his campaign platform ahe"
Known as CAFTA, the trade pact is in force in much of Central America, but has faced vocal resistance from opposition lawmakers in Costa Rica.
'For the first time, Costa Ricans ... will be able to directly decide the future of a very important law for the country,' Arias said at a recent news conference in the capital of San Jose.
The referendum, which could take place within the next three months, opens the possibility that Costa Rica might well reject the deal altogether.
Some recent opinion polls in the Central American country show backing for CAFTA is waning, with less than 40% of those polled in full support of the trade pact.
Costa Rica is the only participant whose legislature hasn’t ratified the agreement.The move would make Costa Rica the first country to hold a referendum to decide the issue, rather than have Congress vote.
The other participants in CAFTA are the Dominican Republic, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua.
Arias made passing the pact into law a central part of his campaign platform ahe"
Labels: cafta, central america, costa rica, costarica, travel
Tuesday, May 22, 2007
Health Technicians
Health Technicians Trained throughout Cuba: "The universalization of teaching in the country's 169 municipalities has allowed for over 73,000 young people to currently be training as medical technicians, authorities from the Health Ministry reported.
According to Dr. Julio Portal Pineda, dean of the Health Technology faculty at the Higher Institute of Medical Sciences, the program started in 2002 with four specialties: physical therapy, transfusion medicine, clinical lab and imaging technology.
The physician stated that the country will graduate this year the first 600 health technicians of the capital, and expects to graduate more by 2008.
These achievements are being analyzed in the first congress on health technology, started Monday with the attendance of 250 Cuban delegates and other from 31 countries, among them Brazil, Colombia, Mexico, Argentina, Venezuela, Costa Rica and Uruguay."
According to Dr. Julio Portal Pineda, dean of the Health Technology faculty at the Higher Institute of Medical Sciences, the program started in 2002 with four specialties: physical therapy, transfusion medicine, clinical lab and imaging technology.
The physician stated that the country will graduate this year the first 600 health technicians of the capital, and expects to graduate more by 2008.
These achievements are being analyzed in the first congress on health technology, started Monday with the attendance of 250 Cuban delegates and other from 31 countries, among them Brazil, Colombia, Mexico, Argentina, Venezuela, Costa Rica and Uruguay."
Labels: central america, costa rica, costarica, san jose
Costa Rica and Venezuela ambassadors
Daily News - eluniversal.com: "The appointment of Nora Uribe -who headed the Venezuelan diplomatic delegation in Costa Rica- as new Ambassador to Paraguay became official last May 18, three months after it was announced.
The candidate to replace Uribe in Costa Rica, José Huertas, who worked at the Venezuelan Embassy to Paraguay, has not been okayed by Costa Rica, according to reports published last Sunday by Costa Rica-based newspaper La Nación. The reasons why Huertas has been denied approval are the sexual harassment charges brought against him in Paraguay.
'But there is yet another political motivation even more sensitive: the role he supposedly has in boosting the likely presidential candidacy in Paraguay of populist bishop Fernando Lugo, a potential ally of (Venezuelan President Hugo) Chávez,' the report claimed.
La Nación added that Caracas has refused to okay the designation of the new Costa Rican Ambassador Clara Montero, and therefore Walter Hernández continued to head this delegation.
In Costa Rica, fears about an activist ambassador come along with concerns about the alleged links between the Venezuelan Government and extreme leftist groups.
Also on May 18, Venezuela officially designated Vice-admiral Armando Laguna Laguna as the new Ambassador to Peru."
The candidate to replace Uribe in Costa Rica, José Huertas, who worked at the Venezuelan Embassy to Paraguay, has not been okayed by Costa Rica, according to reports published last Sunday by Costa Rica-based newspaper La Nación. The reasons why Huertas has been denied approval are the sexual harassment charges brought against him in Paraguay.
'But there is yet another political motivation even more sensitive: the role he supposedly has in boosting the likely presidential candidacy in Paraguay of populist bishop Fernando Lugo, a potential ally of (Venezuelan President Hugo) Chávez,' the report claimed.
La Nación added that Caracas has refused to okay the designation of the new Costa Rican Ambassador Clara Montero, and therefore Walter Hernández continued to head this delegation.
In Costa Rica, fears about an activist ambassador come along with concerns about the alleged links between the Venezuelan Government and extreme leftist groups.
Also on May 18, Venezuela officially designated Vice-admiral Armando Laguna Laguna as the new Ambassador to Peru."
Labels: central america, costa rica, costarica, san jose
Costa Rica in WHO vote - Asia-Pacific
Costa Rica insists it did not mean to offend Taiwan in WHO vote - Asia-Pacific: "Costa Rica said Tuesday its vote against Taiwan's efforts to become a full member of the World Health Organization (WHO) was simply a matter of 'procedure' and not meant to offend the island.
The WHO on May 14 rejected the island's bid to join for the 11th time since its first application in 1997. It was the first time Taipei had applied using the title 'Taiwan.'
The Costa Rican Foreign Ministry's Foreign Policy Director Christian Guillermet told media in the Central American country that the vote was procedural. The change had been proposed by allies of Taiwan in an effort to pave the way for WHO membership for the island.
In Taipei, Costa Rica's position and that of other traditional allies of the island was taken as a 'slap in the face,' especially in the light of the hefty aid the Asian country provides to San Jose.
Several political sectors in Taiwan expressed fear that ties with Central America, where it has had great support, may be getting weaker. Costa Rica has no diplomatic ties with China, although Beijing has made several efforts to reverse the situation.
Taiwan is officially known as the 'Republic of China' as opposed to the People's Republic of China in Beijing. The two sides split at the end of a civil"
The WHO on May 14 rejected the island's bid to join for the 11th time since its first application in 1997. It was the first time Taipei had applied using the title 'Taiwan.'
The Costa Rican Foreign Ministry's Foreign Policy Director Christian Guillermet told media in the Central American country that the vote was procedural. The change had been proposed by allies of Taiwan in an effort to pave the way for WHO membership for the island.
In Taipei, Costa Rica's position and that of other traditional allies of the island was taken as a 'slap in the face,' especially in the light of the hefty aid the Asian country provides to San Jose.
Several political sectors in Taiwan expressed fear that ties with Central America, where it has had great support, may be getting weaker. Costa Rica has no diplomatic ties with China, although Beijing has made several efforts to reverse the situation.
Taiwan is officially known as the 'Republic of China' as opposed to the People's Republic of China in Beijing. The two sides split at the end of a civil"
Labels: central america, costa rica, costarica, san jose
visitcostarica.com Hotels, travel agencies & tours
Costa Rica, No Artificial Ingredients - Hotels, travel agencies & tours: "Welcome to the official site of
Costa Rica
In Costa Rica the visitor can enjoy lovely tropical beaches, the grandest adventures, the wonders of nature, scintillating culture, all the necessary components of an ideal vacation. No wonder, then, that thousands of tourists have made Costa Rica their top travel choice.
Costa Rica nominated for the World Travel Awards 2007
Costa Rica has been nominated for the World Travel Awards 2007 in the following categories: • Main beach of Central and Latin America: Jacó Beach. • Main destination for diving in Central and Latin America: Catalina Islands, located in the North Pacific region of Costa Rica. • Main agency for conventions and tourism: Costa Rica Turismo y Viajes (Costa Rica Tourism and Travel). The World Travel Awards in the industry of tourism are equivalent to the “Oscars” in the movie industry. It i more
titulo novedades
EXPOTUR - COSTA RICA TRAVEL MART
General Information: Date: May 27 th through June 3rd , 2007 Organizer: ACOPROT – Asociación Costarricense de Profesionales en Turismo. Location: Conference Center H... more...
TWENTY THOUSAND PEOPLE PER YEAR VISIT THE GUAYABO ARCHEOLOGICAL MONUMENT
According to data from the Costa Rica Tourism Board (ICT), the Guayabo Archeological Monument, loc"
Costa Rica
In Costa Rica the visitor can enjoy lovely tropical beaches, the grandest adventures, the wonders of nature, scintillating culture, all the necessary components of an ideal vacation. No wonder, then, that thousands of tourists have made Costa Rica their top travel choice.
Costa Rica nominated for the World Travel Awards 2007
Costa Rica has been nominated for the World Travel Awards 2007 in the following categories: • Main beach of Central and Latin America: Jacó Beach. • Main destination for diving in Central and Latin America: Catalina Islands, located in the North Pacific region of Costa Rica. • Main agency for conventions and tourism: Costa Rica Turismo y Viajes (Costa Rica Tourism and Travel). The World Travel Awards in the industry of tourism are equivalent to the “Oscars” in the movie industry. It i more
titulo novedades
EXPOTUR - COSTA RICA TRAVEL MART
General Information: Date: May 27 th through June 3rd , 2007 Organizer: ACOPROT – Asociación Costarricense de Profesionales en Turismo. Location: Conference Center H... more...
TWENTY THOUSAND PEOPLE PER YEAR VISIT THE GUAYABO ARCHEOLOGICAL MONUMENT
According to data from the Costa Rica Tourism Board (ICT), the Guayabo Archeological Monument, loc"
Labels: central america, costa rica, costarica, san jose, travel
Costa Rica - Wikipedia
Costa Rica - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia: "Costa Rica (literally 'Rich Coast'), officially the Republic of Costa Rica (Spanish: Costa Rica or República de Costa Rica, IPA: [re'puβlika ðe 'kosta 'rika]), is a country in Central America, bordered by Nicaragua to the north, Panama to the south-southeast, the Pacific Ocean to the west and south, and the Caribbean Sea to the east. Costa Rica was the first country in the world to constitutionally abolish its army.
Contents
[hide]
* 1 History
* 2 Geography
* 3 Politics
* 4 Provinces and cantons
* 5 Economy
* 6 Foreign affairs
* 7 Flora and fauna
* 8 Demographics
* 9 Culture
* 10 Education
* 11 See also
* 12 External links
History
In Pre-Columbian times the Indigenous people, in what is now known as Costa Rica, were part of the Intermediate Area located between the Mesoamerican and Andean cultural regions. This has recently been updated to include the influence of the Isthmo-Colombian area.
It was the point where the Mesoamerican and South American native cultures met. The northwest of the country, the Nicoya Peninsula, was the southernmost point of Nahuatl (named after Nitin) cultural influence when the Spanish invaders (conquistadores) came in the sixteenth century. "
Contents
[hide]
* 1 History
* 2 Geography
* 3 Politics
* 4 Provinces and cantons
* 5 Economy
* 6 Foreign affairs
* 7 Flora and fauna
* 8 Demographics
* 9 Culture
* 10 Education
* 11 See also
* 12 External links
History
In Pre-Columbian times the Indigenous people, in what is now known as Costa Rica, were part of the Intermediate Area located between the Mesoamerican and Andean cultural regions. This has recently been updated to include the influence of the Isthmo-Colombian area.
It was the point where the Mesoamerican and South American native cultures met. The northwest of the country, the Nicoya Peninsula, was the southernmost point of Nahuatl (named after Nitin) cultural influence when the Spanish invaders (conquistadores) came in the sixteenth century. "
Labels: central america, costa rica, costarica, san jose, travel
costarica.com
Frontier Approved Costa Rica
Frontier Approved to Fly to Costa Rica, First Flight in November @ Yacht Vacations & Charters: "The low cost carrier known for its industry-leading customer service is rapidly becoming travelers' top way to reach the beach. Tickets are on sale now for Frontier Airlines' new service between Denver International Airport (DEN) and San Jose, Costa Rica (SJO), following the U.S. Department of Transportation's final approval of the route.
The direct flights, which start Friday, Nov. 30, 2007, will be aboard Frontier's new fleet of Airbus A319 with 33 inches of legroom and DIRECTV service and pay-per-view movies in every seat back. Frontier is offering special introductory fares for as low as $298* roundtrip. Fares must be purchased by 9:59 p.m. MDT on June 26, 2007, for travel between Nov. 30, 2007, and June 16, 2008.
Frontier is the only airline to fly directly between Costa Rica and Denver. Costa Rica is Frontier's third country served outside of the United States and 11th non-U.S. city total, with eight cities served in Mexico and two in Canada. Most recently, Frontier began flying to Vancouver, British Columbia in Canada and Guadalajara, Mexico. On June 6, 2007, Frontier will begin flying directly from Dallas to Mazatlan, Mexico, which the airline already serves via Denver. Frontier's new Costa Rica service is the Denver- based carrier's furthest expansion south to date.
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The direct flights, which start Friday, Nov. 30, 2007, will be aboard Frontier's new fleet of Airbus A319 with 33 inches of legroom and DIRECTV service and pay-per-view movies in every seat back. Frontier is offering special introductory fares for as low as $298* roundtrip. Fares must be purchased by 9:59 p.m. MDT on June 26, 2007, for travel between Nov. 30, 2007, and June 16, 2008.
Frontier is the only airline to fly directly between Costa Rica and Denver. Costa Rica is Frontier's third country served outside of the United States and 11th non-U.S. city total, with eight cities served in Mexico and two in Canada. Most recently, Frontier began flying to Vancouver, British Columbia in Canada and Guadalajara, Mexico. On June 6, 2007, Frontier will begin flying directly from Dallas to Mazatlan, Mexico, which the airline already serves via Denver. Frontier's new Costa Rica service is the Denver- based carrier's furthest expansion south to date.
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Labels: central america, costa rica, costarica, san jose, travel
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