Costa Rica’s Turrialba Volcano Erupts

Costa Rica's Turrialba volcano erupted on January 6th for the first time in more than a century, spewing ash and prompting the evacuation of about 25 people living in nearby communities. Emergency crews have been watching the volcano for two years. Last week we posted on Volcano Poas Erupting on Christmas day and mentioned that this could be a preamble of what may be in the horizon for the … [Read more...]

Costa Rica’s Volcano Poas Eruptes

When it comes to Costa Rica volcano's tourist usually think of Arenal, when in reality, the Pacific Ring Fire Circle, Costa Rica has over 200 identifiable volcanic formations However, only 100 or so show any signs of volcanic activity, while just five are classified as active volcanoes. Most of the volcanoes in Costa Rica lie in the northern part of the country and in the Central … [Read more...]

Costa Rica Taxis – Riding and Fares from the Airport – Unidos

Unless you have someone to pick you up, arriving at the Juan Santamaría airport can be a overpowering once you step outside the baggage terminal, moreso when you hit the sidewalk.  Immediately you are surrounded by people asking if you need a taxi or private ride in van or shuttle bus. For someone like myself, who always arrives late night, we make arrangements beforehand for a personal driver … [Read more...]

Costa Rica Govenment to Repair Bridges after Tragedy

The Costa Rica government announced on Saturday that it is allocating us$15 million for the reparation of 10 bridges, two days after a tragedy that took five lives and sparked a barrage of criticism against the ministra de Obras Pública y Transportes, Karla González. Costa Rican president, Oscar Arias, personally visited the site of Thursday's tragedy, reiterating his support of González, his … [Read more...]

Jaco, Costa Rica, Say, “Get Waco For Jaco”

When someone mentions Jaco, Costa Rica, the instant thought is the Wacos. Besides probably the most visited beach in Costa Rica, its closest beach to San Jose, great and almost “sinful” night life, surfing, unique shops and an assortment of art galleries make Jaco a must for almost all itineraries that cater to all types of people. In Jaco walking down the street, you will find an … [Read more...]

Exchanging Money In Costa Rica – Hotel and Banks

When exchanging your money, you can either utilize the services at many of the Costa Rica banks, or what we like to suggest, is the services of your hotel - most will exchange your money providing that you are staying there. The rate they offer usually is be a bit below that offered by banks, however, changing money at the local banks requires plenty of time due to bureaucratic handling … [Read more...]

Illegal Street Vendors in San Jose, Costa Rica, Crackdown

Years ago a renovation project spearheaded by the San Jose Municipality, labeled San Jose Posible, was design to give a total face-lift to the downtown area, adding more walking boulevards, planting trees, paining facades and offering incentives for Costa Ricans and residents to move back into the city. The Central Avenue Boulevard and its surrounding parks and plazas have been called the biggest … [Read more...]

Costa Rica’s Crocodile Man, Tarzan Tico – Town of Sarapiqui

IF you thought the legend of the horse whisperer was impressive, here's an animal tale with even more bite. Chito wrestles in the water with best mate Pocho, a five-metre long crocodile, Chito and Poncho play in the water together Rather than trying to tame wild stallions, fearless Costa Rican fisherman Chito prefers a playful wrestle in the water with his best pal Pocho - a deadly 17ft … [Read more...]

Paving Starting On Costa Rica’s Coastal Highway From Quepos to Dominical

A picture is worth a thousand words. The photos are taken just a couple of days ago of a very tiny portion of the newly-paved 44 km (27 mile) stretch of the Costa Rica's coastal highway (Costañera Sur) leading south from Quepos to Dominical. It's been a long time coming, but at last this major public works project is not only well underway, but about 75% completed. Some of the major and … [Read more...]

Mild to Moderate Earthquake Hits Near Golfito

An mild to moderate earthquake estimated at 4.5 magnitude took place at 11:02:46, Saturday on 9.5.09 in Costa Rica. According to the U.S. National Earthquake Center said the epicenter was about 5 miles east and north of Golfito in the southern end of the Puntarenas Region of Costa Rica. This is the second earthquake to hit the southern zone. On March 11 of this year,  one registered 6.3 on … [Read more...]

Cocos Islands – Diving Locations – Best In The World

Surrounded by deep waters with counter-currents, Cocos Island is admired by scuba divers for its populations of Hammerhead sharks, rays, dolphins and other large marine species. The extremely wet climate and oceanic character give Cocos an ecological character. It is also an uninhabited island and in the Puntarenas Canton of the province of Puntarenas. It is one of the National Parks of Costa Rica … [Read more...]

Shipping, Importing a Car, Truck or SUV to Costa Rica

Importing a car, SUV or truck  is very expensive, one of the biggest drawbacks and mistakes many make. The government has this "Black Book" of value (which changes all the time) to value a vehicle's import fees. But to get a general idea, expect to pay between 40-70% ON TOP of what your vehicle is worth (and here is the catch), depending on year/make/model at its new car value. And who is to say, … [Read more...]