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HM HOWLER MAGAZINE | 1
HOWLER
CO N T E N T S Is Costa Rica Your Dream Home? Cover Story
Photo courtesy of Mar Vista
FAMILY IN TOW TO CR Moving to CR Series
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4 Pura Vida: Costa Rica Living
4 - Cover Story: Is Moving to Costa Rica Right for You? 8 - Moving to CR Series: Moving Your Family to Costa Rica 10 - Moving to CR Series: Costa Rica Your Way 12 - Moving to CR Series: Pick Your Place to Live 14 - Medical Tourism: Esthetic Treatments and Vacations 16 - Education Spotlight: The Core of Education 18 - Yoga Wisdom: Yoga and Meditation for Kids 20 - Mindfulness: Creativity and Consciousness 22 - Spanish: Unlocking Pronouns 24 - Animal Life: Boarding Facility for Rescue Cases
8 27 Dining Guide
YOGA FOR KIDS Yoga Wisdom
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CREATIVEITY AND CONSCIOUSNESS
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Mindfulness
28 - Playas del Coco - Coconutz Bar & Grill 28 - Playas del Coco - Che Sirloin Steak House & Grill 28 - Simply Spanish: Table Talk 29 - Las Catalinas - Sentido Norte 30 - Surfside / Potrero - Nasu Restaurant 30 - Surfside / Potrero - The Beach House 31 - Brasilito - Lucy’s Retired Surfer Bar & Restaurant 32 - Flamingo - Margaritaville: 5 o’Clock Somewhere Bar 32 - Flamingo - Margaritaville: Banana Wind Cafe 32 - Flamingo - Margaritaville: Capriccios Pizza Bistro & Cafe 33 - Flamingo - Marie’s Restaurant 33 - Flamingo - Vaca Loka Italian Restaurant 33 - Huacas - La Playita Restaurant 34 - Huacas - New York Pizza 34 - Villarreal - Black Stallion 34 - Playa Grande - Pots & Bowls 34 - Tamarindo - The Roof 35 - Tamarindo/Langosta - El Barco 35 - Tamarindo - Barefoot 36 - Palm Beach - Bula Bula
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HM HOWLER MAGAZINE | 3
COVER STORY
MOVING TO COSTA RICA Is It Right for You?
by Rachel Cherry White
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osta Rica is one of the most sought-after destinations for retirees, singles and families looking for a new place to live. Year after year, it tops lists of “Best Places to Retire” and “Best Places for Expats.” No less than three times in the last decade, it’s scored highest on the planet’s happiest countries index. But what makes it so?
Yes, it's paradise
Before deciding to relocate here, it’s important to determine whether you can afford the lifestyle you want. 4
The weather, the people and just the vibe of the place make Costa Rica completely intoxicating. Many people come looking to flee the rat race back home. Be it politics, consumerism or keeping up with the Joneses, they feel the need to escape. And they do find respite here. Things move more slowly; no one is in a rush. There is so much beauty to behold —a waterfall here, a toucan there. Ticos are renowned as some of the friendliest and most helpful people on earth. Another factor luring many to Costa Rica is the sustained absence of an army and presence of a stable democratic government. “My heart has always yearned for a tropical climate and slow-paced beach life,” says Marissa Floyd, who moved here with her husband and two young children two years ago. “Costa Rica has the weather I crave and the lifestyle I want for my family.” Few would argue that the climate is divine, with an average year-round temperature of 80°F. There is a dry season and a rainy season, with many preferring the latter “green season” because a couple hours of afternoon rain makes flowers bloom and everything look lush. For those preferring a more temperate climate, the Central Valley has somewhat cooler temperatures and year-round flora.
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With the new “Digital Nomad” trend gaining traction, plenty of folks are able to retain the same job they had in their home countries by doing everything remotely. WiFi quality is good in major cities and serviceable everywhere else making this an easy option. Others dream of buying a seaside restaurant or operating a hotel. It is fairly easy to open a business — requiring only a tourist visa to do so — which makes it enticing for entrepreneurs. Make sure to do research and have a good business plan. It is worth noting that a business can employ no more than 10 percent of its workforce as foreigners. Some move to Costa Rica because of its health care system, consistently rated one of the best in the world and relatively inexpensive too. Expats who establish residency are eligible for universal Caja health care insurance coverage by paying a small, sliding scale fee. This enables them to receive treatment at any government hospitals or clinics throughout the country. Otherwise, privately delivered health care services in Costa Rica cost about one-quarter of what people in the United States would pay. Some patients come here specifically to receive services they cannot access in the U.S., including stem cell treatments for certain illnesses.
Things to consider
Costa Rica isn’t right for everyone. First of all, are there things you can’t live without? Then it may not be the place for you. Do you make twice weekly Target runs? There are no Target stores in Costa Rica. Nor will you even get your Starbucks fix outside the capital city of San José. So if you are someone who doesn’t like making compromises, think long and hard about taking up residence here. Also, keep in mind the requirement for
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Besides Costa Rica's "maintenance-free" roads, expect the unexpected anywhere, even in your own driveway. If you were bothered by neighbors not picking up after their dog, Costa Rica may not be for you. But, beauty is around almost every bend.
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HM HOWLER MAGAZINE | 5
keeping your tourist visa up to date: you have to leave the country every 90 days. Most people drive or take a group shuttle to either of the bordering countries, Nicaragua or Panama. Others take advantage of relatively cheap flights to destinations like Colombia or Mexico. From an overall expense standpoint, living in Costa Rica is hardly inexpensive. Before deciding to relocate here, it’s important to determine whether you can afford the lifestyle you want. Cost of living varies depending on where you live; the closer you are to the beach, the more expensive it usually becomes. Talk to people who live in the area you’re looking at. How much do they spend on groceries? Average rent? A night out? Take these things into consideration so there are no surprises when you take the plunge. And don’t forget about your startup costs. For renting, you’ll need the first and last month's amount, plus security deposit. If you want to buy a home, mortgages for non-residents are very rare, so you’ll probably need cash. Unless you live in a town where you can walk or take taxis, you’ll need to purchase a car. Again, loans are difficult to get, so you may need to have cash on hand or find a place that takes credit cards. This is why you see many expats driving turn-of-the-century cars. If you have children, school is a huge factor. Costa Rica’s public education system is not like that in North America, and most expat families choose to enroll their children in private international schools. The costs can add up. Are you scared to drive on less-thanperfect roads? Costa Rica is notorious for bad roads and drivers. The drivers in the metropolitan area blast you with horns, roaring motorcycles and yields on red. Stretches of unpaved dirt, mud, and gravel, single-lane bridges and rivers that sweep cars away are par for
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the course. And all of these must always be shared with pedestrians, cyclists, farm and construction vehicles and all types of animals. But then, if your ideal traffic jam is a herd of wandering cows, you have found the right place. Last but not least, expect otherwise normal days in Costa Rica when your electricity and/or water stops for no apparent reason. It happens all the time and people make do.
All or nothing proposition?
The how-to aspects of moving here are up to you. Some people decide to leave their household goods in storage and rent out their existing home for a year or two, bringing little more than suitcases with clothes to Costa Rica, before deciding whether a move is right for them. Others take bolder measures in putting all of their furniture and belongings into a Costa Rica-bound shipping crate. Shipping rates vary but generally range from between $6,000 and $15,000 for a 15to 20-foot container from the U.S. to Costa Rica. Others bite the bullet, sell everything and move down with only their checked bags. These folks usually rent a furnished space, at least at first, until they’re able to purchase their own things. All things considered, Costa Rica offers no end of reasons for being the happiest place on earth … ask any of the estimated over 400,000 foreigners now living here. Whether drawn by the people, the sunshine or the lifestyle, they have found the allure irresistible. Turn your dreams into a reality, live on vacation every day. Pura vida. The CR Biz article on page 30 in the main magazine "Only Fools Rush In,” elaborates on some of the key decisionmaking factors for moving to Costa Rica, particularly financial aspects.
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HM HOWLER MAGAZINE | 7
PURA VIDA / LIFESTYLE
THE UNPLANNED WONDERS OF PURA VIDA MOVING TO CR SERIES
What to Really Expect Moving Your Family to Costa Rica
by Nicole Rangel
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ost people would agree that moving is a major life stressor, but moving to another country with children adds on more layers of stress. When moving to Costa Rica with our children, I found that I was not the only one with the same questions, concerns and hopes. Each family story is unique, but we all strive for a similar outcome. Here are a few things to expect when moving to Costa Rica with children.
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You will go crazy in Costa Rica unless you tame that type-A personality. 8
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Your family will become really close
Most people who move to Costa Rica downsize in some way, which means smaller homes and usually one or no family vehicle. This results in lots of time together in smaller spaces and moving around to activities as a family more often. If you move to an area where you don’t know anyone, many parents are pleased to find that siblings play together more and family meals become routine. A common conversation topic among couples is whether all the additional togetherness with your partner is making or breaking your relationship.
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Safety is overrated
One reality in Costa Rica is that despite the many laws and regulations, you will still see babies riding on motorcycles, kids on teetertotters, children serving beers in restaurants, and a bunch of people standing in the back of trucks. It is very common to plan playdates and totally
forget to exchange car seats, get phone numbers or even know exactly where someone lives. And definitely do not look at the kitchen of any soda if you have food safety concerns.
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Finding support wherever you go
From the moment you entertain the idea of moving to Costa Rica, you can join one of hundreds of Facebook groups dedicated to living here. Ask one question and a plethora of answers and offers to help follows. Some of these turn into offline conversations and even in-person meetings. It is even more special when you can be the one offering support and answers to those eager to live this life in paradise. This support also transcends into your everyday life in Costa Rica. Whether someone helps shuttle you to the nearest city when your car breaks down in the middle of nowhere or jumps in to translate for you when setting up a utility, Ticos go out of their way to help in the best ways. When you befriend one of them, you have a friend for life.
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Rely on the unreliable
From communication with your kids’ school to the availability of electricity, you never know what you will get. You set up a time for your house cleaner to come every week, but yet she often shows up on a different day and/or time. The dance recital was supposed to start at 7, but it is now 7:30 and the curtains are just rising.
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Playdates are made on the spot and birthday parties planned a week in advance. This is not due to a lack of social life or planning, it is due to loving the moment and people in your life right now. You will go crazy in Costa Rica unless you tame that type-A personality.
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Bugs, bugs and more bugs
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Welcome to the ‘80s
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World view is truly worldly
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Kids play with each other
The Animals
There are so many bugs in Costa Rica! Army ants that swoop in cleaning up every surface. Lice infections you can’t brush away. Stomach bugs that plague your whole family. From creepy crawlies to bacteria, you will encounter so many kinds of pests while living here. But hey, what doesn’t kill you will make you stronger, right? It is true that life is simpler here. Kids get dirty playing outside for hours and there is less stress about testing, rushing to/from after-school activities and keeping up with the Joneses. But that also comes at a price. It’s not uncommon in the Tico culture to brush off common bullying behavior, use female-demeaning language and dismiss responsibility for mistakes. This can be downright infuriating, especially if your child is having any social problems at school. Just take a chill pill, dude. You might have moved to Costa Rica to give your family a better world view, expecting the socialization and schooling with Ticos to change your children’s ideas of needs, wants, happiness and contentment. Then you find yourself surrounded by not only Ticos but families from the Americas and Europe too. You realize the new world view you sought has truly become worldly. The blessing of exposing your children to multiple languages is amazing until you realize they have picked up more bad words in Spanish and French than usable phrases. You will also find the heartache that comes with this worldly community: people come and go often, and finding friends who stay can be difficult. Over and over again, I am amazed at how diverse our friend circle is, but I am most elated by how kids play differently here. Children, pre-teens and teens all play together regularly, regardless of gender, language, nationality or age. Take a group of mixed-age kids to the beach and throughout the day, you will see everyone partner up with a different kid in the group at some point. Watching a French teenager build a sand castle with an Argentine 3-year-old, or a group of boys and girls who just met team up to play a pick-up game of fúbol, makes you wonder — where in adulthood do we lose those socialization skills it takes to be productive world leaders? Best of all, moving to Costa Rica is about unleashing expectations, being uncomfortable and learning through it all … for kids and adults. By showing your children that you are struggling, learning and adapting just like them, you are modeling life behaviors too few people learn these days. Embrace the tranquila life and enjoy the unexpected.
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HM HOWLER MAGAZINE | 9
PURA VIDA / LIFESTYLE
MOVING TO CR SERIES
COSTA RICA YOUR WAY by Jenn Parker
When things get difficult, remind yourself what it was that drew you here in the first place.
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n the morning of Jan. 7, 2010, I arrived at Miami International Airport with nearly everything I owned, including a surfboard I had acquired, a Maine coon cat that had acquired me, and a suitcase filled with books. I had a one-way ticket to San José, a lease in a beach town I had only briefly visited once, a tight six-month budget, no job, no Spanish skills, and a level of confidence that can only be attributed to the unshakeable belief that the life I had imagined for myself was in Costa Rica. I boarded that plane and never looked back. The metaphorical road ahead of me resembled the reality of many actual roads in Costa Rica — laced with potholes, lacking guardrails, heavy with hairpin turns and demanding of patience, prudence and poise. The details of my story are uniquely mine, but many of the themes and lessons are ones that are widely shared within Costa Rica’s population of foreign residents. Approximately 9 percent of the country’s 4.9 million people are from elsewhere and have relocated to Costa Rica, according to Index Mundi. Part of life here, regardless of where you decide to call home, is contingent on making mistakes, taking risks, and learning some lessons the hard way. However, many hardships, frustrations, and anxieties can be avoided or reduced when someone who has
“been there, done that” shares with you the kind of invaluable wisdom that can only be gained through experience. While the list of do and don’t tips, life hacks and advice is inexhaustibly long, these are some points worth noting if you are thinking about or in the process of moving to Costa Rica, or have just done so. As a pescatarian and produce-loving foodie, I found my food heaven here. One of the best ways to keep your food budget reasonable and take care of your health is to eat locally sourced food. Imported goods and products are expensive in Costa Rica. Take advantage of the bounty of fresh food that is grown and harvested here. As a cancer survivor who has suffered through two severe bouts of dengue fever, broken a rib, had stitches inside my ear, and sustained multiple other injuries and weird tropical ailments, I can attest that the private health care system in Costa Rica is superior. For families, retirees and really anyone considering a life in Costa Rica, it’s comforting to know that all your health care needs can be met here, and for a fraction of the cost of what you would pay in North America. Many of the private clinics and hospitals have a multilingual staff of highly accomplished medical professionals. As a car owner to a future car owner, I
Writer Jenn Parker shown in these two photos enjoying Costa Rica "her way."
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advise people not to buy a cheap car. Cheap cars quickly become expensive cars. You are better off using the public bus system, taxis and friends with vehicles until you can afford a car that isn’t already on its last legs. Almost everyone who owns a car in Costa Rica has at least one nightmarish mechanic story. Make sure you do your due diligence and find a mechanic who comes highly recommended. When you find that gem of a mechanic — and they are definitely out there — form a good relationship and never let it go! From the perspective of a former teacher in Costa Rica, the private school education opportunities are inspiring. Costa Rica has a 97.8 percent literacy rate and classrooms filled with diverse populations of students, teachers, cultures and languages. There are a lot of private school choices, especially in San José, Guanacaste and the Central
Pacific area. When I first started teaching, I asked a fiveyear-old student of mine, who was born in Israel, how many languages she spoke. She replied five. I then asked her how, on top of her native language, did she know how to also communicate in English, Spanish, Italian and French? She replied, “If I didn’t, how would I be able to talk to my friends?” As someone who was seeking a slower-paced, more nature-infused and wavesaturated life, where I would actually have the time to live, Costa Rica became my spot in the world. When things get difficult, especially things that “should” be easy, it is important to remind yourself what it was that drew you here in the first place. There is no perfect place and Costa Rica is no exception. Living in Costa Rica is only “the dream” if it is truly your dream.
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HM HOWLER MAGAZINE | 11
Photo: John Pierpont
MOVING TO CR SERIES
PICK YOUR PLACE TO LIVE by John Brockmeier
Cost of living varies a great deal among different locations.
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he mystique and adventure that Costa Rica offers are a big draw for those looking to be part of this special place. What are your deciding factors for moving here? What is your ideal living environment? Research and knowing what you want are very important. From weather and terrain to lifestyle and costs, there are many things to consider and Costa Rica offers something for everyone. Your choices of living space are among the most biodiverse in the world for a country so small. Besides boasting mountainous regions, Costa Rica also has plains and grasslands, cloud forests, jungles and some of the most pristine beaches in the world. With the exception of snow and deserts, you can surround yourself with almost any type of flora and fauna. Within these regions of the country, climate variations are also wide and diverse. Do you like rain and moisture on a regular basis? Or something in a cool mountainous area? Then the Central Valley is for you. Are you better suited for a drier climate? Or prefer beaches? Then staying closer to the Pacific or Caribbean coasts will meet your needs. Are you willing to deal with mold and humidity,
which in some places are constant? Other spots, like the northern Guanacaste region, are dry with only limited months of rain during what is affectionately referred to as green season. The rest of the year is dry and can be very dusty. Each location has its own calling for different preferences. Knowing yourself well and doing your own research from that angle is invaluable when making such big decisions.
The good life – what does yours look like?
What kind of lifestyle are you looking for? Beach life, seclusion, city amenities or a little of everything? It’s important to identify your specific likes and dislikes before picking a place. San José and surrounding areas are the closest to a truly bustling urban life you will find in Costa Rica. All the other areas are spotted with smaller cities and pueblos, each with its own unique personality. Also think carefully about the kind of social life are you want: the expat experience of living in a multicultural place, or full Tico immersion? Is there shopping close by, or are you ok with stocking up during less frequent trips for supplies? If you have children, what type of schools are available in your desired area?
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SIMPLY SPANISH by Sylvia Barreto Benites and Spanish For Expats
Buying and Renting Terms alquilar — to rent Housing design options are as varied as the geographic locations throughout Costa Rica. Choose wisely!
Are they accredited, and if so, what form of accreditation? And for anyone, whatever place you have in mind, your safety and security should take highest priority. Cost of living varies a great deal among different locations. In resort areas, prices of housing, food and clothing can be as much as 30 to 50 percent more than in other regions. Access to groceries, clothing and restaurants can be limited depending on where you live. These are not only important budget considerations but also factors when purchasing real estate. If you are in a high-traffic area, real estate is more expensive but you
will probably be able to resell your property faster. Somewhere off the beaten path might be a fast purchase and seem like a steal, but when you are ready to sell, it might take a long time for an interested buyer to come along. Life is not all wrapped up in a basket with a bow and plopped on your lap. There are pluses and minuses to each area of Costa Rica. You learn very fast how to deal with things here and accept those that cannot be changed. There are so many options for finding your paradise. Consider what makes you happy and go on your quest.
alquiler — the rent or rental of something (car, house, etc.) amueblado — furnished apartamento — apartment balcón — balcony cabinas —apartments, condos carta de agua — water concession letter casa — house catastro — land survey cerca de — close to comunidad residencial — residential community con/sin aire acondicionado — with/without air conditioning condominio — condominium contrato — contract escritura de traspaso — transfer of conveyance deed folio real — number assigned to each property that proves registration in the national registry habitaciones — bedrooms impuestos municipales — municipal taxes lavandería — laundry metros cuadrado — square meters mudarse — to move piscina — pool poder — power of attorney propietario — landlord uso de suelo — zoning permissions vecino — neighbor Useful Phrases ¿Se permiten animales domésticos? — Do you allow pets?
Sponsored by SPANISH FOR EXPATS
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PURA VIDA / LIFESTYLE
ESTHETICS a Prominent Face of Medical Tourism by Dra. Paula Avila Leiva Pacific Medical Clinic
MEDICAL TOURISM
Treatments and Vacations Mutually Compatible
‘You can go out walking soon afterwards without having to hide from the sun for long periods.’
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s one of the world’s most popular medical tourism destinations, Costa Rica offers no end of accessible and affordable options for services and treatments. In cases where recovery time and follow-up care pose little or no inconvenience, there is no better place to enjoy an unforgettable vacation while tending to your health and wellness needs. Esthetic treatments are one of the best examples of the win-win benefits that are attracting a growing number of tourists and local clients alike to Guanacaste facilities like Pacific Medical Clinic, operating in Liberia since 2012 and for five years in Tamarindo. Three commonly sought facial rejuvenation treatments are explained in this article, all well suited to a beach-loving lifestyle. These are procedures that have immediate results without interrupting your
favorite activities. You can go out walking soon afterwards without having to hide from the sun for long periods of time.
Botulinum toxin
Commonly known by the trade name Botox, this is the most highly recommended treatment for facial skin rejuvenation. Its application by injection is fast and safe, with results that are often surprising! There are no contraindications for sun exposure or activities such as boating or swimming. The advantages of a refreshed look become Results from Hyaluronic acid treatment.
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visible within 30 minutes. While resting and relaxing on the beach, your face is transforming for perfect vacation photos. A bonus for many tourists is that botox treatments in Costa Rica cost less and access is more convenient than in other parts of the world.
Platelet rich plasma
This famously known treatment makes cell regeneration possible while you vacation! Pacific Medical Clinic is equipped, in compliance with high safety standards, to stimulate facial rejuvenation through the use of your own blood cells in a therapeutic serum. The results of a single session of a facial illumination are 100 percent natural looking and compatible with your skin type, generating changes lasting for weeks. The facial plasma application technique is delicate and fine, in an effort to avoid bruising and inflammation. The recovery period is generally 24
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hours or as long as 48 hours maximum. Most patients are suitable candidates for the procedure, with very few exceptions.
Hyaluronic acid facial filler
Imagine showing up for your next local tour with no more sad and tired face! The application of this remarkable product immediately eliminates the so-called marionette grooves on the facial skin, as well as the appearance of deep circles under the eyes. The filler procedure takes about 30 minutes and the favorable results of improved eye contour last up to a year. Pacific Medical Clinic offers these services in Liberia and Tamarindo by appointment only. For information, call 506.2667.0767 or email to info@pacificmedicalspa.com
HM HOWLER MAGAZINE | 15
PURA VIDA / LIFESTYLE
THE CORE OF EDUCATION
by Nicole Rangel
EDUCATION SPOTLIGHT
Educarte's Electives Spark Learning
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hroughout the world, interest in “elective” educational options is being overridden by a stronger focus on core subjects like math, reading and science. Many educational programs “teach towards the test,” emphasizing that students must be able to not only pass, but also excel at, standardized or college entrance exams. This comes at a time when STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) is the way of the future, but also at a cost. Today, more and more students globally are entering higher education with no real direction, spending years in what many experience as an endless loop of education funk. When most people consider moving to Costa Rica with their children, there is a huge concern about the quality of education. But it is not the relatively limited scope of education mentioned above. Instead, most are seeking educationally enriched days full of activities, play and socialization that are often missing in schools back home. Parents recognize that pursuits such as art, music, theater and sports are at the center of developing a well-rounded citizen of the world. One school in the Guanacaste area, Educarte, is committed to children developing their own core values, talents and learning styles. While cycling through a variety of classes that are sadly becoming obsolete in many countries, Educarte students are offered electives to enhance their experiences.
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Electives part of standard curriculum Each week, students receive at least one hour of instruction — if not two hours— in art, music, swimming and physical education. These not only complement the so-called core classes, but are actually considered part of Educarte’s standard curriculum. In addition, students also take elective classes on a monthly basis. The idea is quite simple. Each month, all the students at Educarte sit down with their teacher and decide what workshops (taller in Spanish) or electives they want. This begins in first grade and runs through high school, when teens benefit from having greater control in pursuing a chosen academic path. Students attend one-hour sessions in their selected taller twice a week. Talleres can be similar to other regular classes such as soccer, crafts or Educarte band. Others may fully be expanded in multifaceted disciplines ranging from healthy food cooking and collaborative games to Math Club, drama and origami. The taller program is loosely based on psychologist Howard Gardner’s theory of Multiple Intelligences (MI). Gardner believed in eight intelligences or ways of learning. Using and strengthening these intelligences helps each student develop new skills and learning techniques. Most children
have a dominant intelligence, with a secondary one supporting their learning path. Educarte’s approach in offering talleres focuses on these eight intelligences. Educators here believe that their students will not only open up their learning capabilities but also find new activities and friends they enjoy.
Favorite ways to learn and enjoy With each taller they complete, month by month, individual students not only understand more about how they learn best, but also what they enjoy. This translates to the classroom setting, where teachers are equipped with many tools to help the students learn in different ways such as visual, auditive and/or hands-on instruction. Within the teaching discipline, schools ideally seek ways that fit children’s intrinsic needs. Educarte strives to achieve this simply through a multilingual education that promotes civic responsibility, emotional wellness and learning adeptness. The taller program is offering kids choices, developing skills and discovering new talents.
To find out more about Educarte, email info@educartecostarica.com or call (506) 2653-6363.
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Embracing Opportunities Leaders of the Future
www.educartecostarica.com
Making a Difference info@educartecostarica.com • (506) 2653- 6363
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Odry’s Massage Massage Pedicure
Manicure Waxing
Tamarindo - main intersection, above Tamarindo Transfer & Tours Daily, 9am-6, call for appointment, walk-ins welcome 2653-0939 ordrys.massage@hotmail.com
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PURA VIDA / LIFESTYLE
CREATING PEACE WITHIN CHILDREN YOGA WISDOM
Practicing Yoga and Meditation
by Giannina Olivares
Even 20 minutes is long enough to help kids relax and navigate their inner space and imagination.
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n our stress-filled world, it has become increasingly common for children to be affected, even here in the paradise of Costa Rica. Stressors for kids can include school, difficult people or any situation lasting long enough to be perceived as stressful. Yoga and meditation have proven effective tools to help reduce stress in adults and kids alike. By lowering levels of cortisol in the body — the socalled stress hormone that functions as nature’s built-in alarm system — yoga encourages relaxation. The impact is felt in the body as well as the mind, improving balance, strength and flexibility. Scientists have found that meditation lowers blood pressure and helps improve other physical functions. In her book “Sensational Meditation for Children,” Sarah Wood Vallely explores the many advantages of teaching children to meditate. Some children told her that meditation helps them prepare for tests and sport events, or it improves their relationships with their parents, friends and siblings. Others said they like meditation because “it makes them feel good when they are sad.” Teachers who build meditation into their lesson plans report favorable outcomes that include a more peaceful classroom environment. Their students have demonstrated reduced test anxiety, more positive peer relationships and enhanced anger management skills. Meditation is a big word and mature concept. It might seem like a difficult fit with the super active
world of children, but not when we consider the depths of their incredible imaginations. For those daring to take that journey, meditation is just a blink of an eye away. Ideally, it occurs in a space filled with music and games that guide kids through yoga philosophy, poses, mindfulness and relaxation. This helps them explore and connect to the inner and peaceful space we all have inside. A childrens' yoga class may last from 20 minutes to one hour, depending on the context and age of group members. The class outline will always include an initial mantra meditation, followed by sun salutations, song or activity, asana practice and final relaxation. Even 20 minutes is long enough to help kids relax and navigate their inner space and imagination, while opening themselves to practices of peace and love. In my experience, most kids love to do yoga and meditate; it is very natural and intuitive to them. Children are happy and open to trying breathing exercises, mantras and meditation. They can be enthusiastic and active while challenging their bodies, with asanas providing a learning balance. “Peace begins with me” is the mantra for so-called “kidding around” yoga. It promotes understanding of the most important aspect: giving kids the resources to calm down, control frustration and live peacefully while growing up to fully develop their own personal yoga and meditation practice. Let it sink in your intellect and be digested by your intuitive self.
Giannina teaching a Karma yoga class for CEPIA at the Movement Dance Studio. Photo: Giannina Olivares
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EAT • SLEEP • SURF • STRETCH
The Yoga Shala at RipJack Inn
Classes Workshops Retreats
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HM HOWLER MAGAZINE | 19
PURA VIDA / LIFESTYLE
Creativity and Consciousness MINDFULNESS
SILENCE IS KEY
by Marian Paniagua
W
e live in potent times, when unrelenting stimuli can make our mental world a crowded and noisy place. We experience it in different degrees from our own unique perspectives, spiritual points of view and levels of awareness. But what we have in common is the deep desire for fulfillment, with the belief that being fulfilled will make us feel better and happier. We make lists of goals, recite mantras and affirmations every day to program ourselves for greatness or sign up for the latest online master class to beat procrastination. Meanwhile, we can easily lose sight of the underlying desire itself. Human beings have a boundless capacity for creation. We create using our minds, our actions and our words with the power of focus and intention. Ideas flow to us moment by moment from a limitless source of information and creativity. Our brain, as the legendary Nikola Tesla said, is only a receiver. Something powerful happens when we cultivate a habit of presence through the practice of meditation and mindfulness: our internal dialog quiets down and the mental turbulence disappears. This makes it easy to transcend to higher levels of awareness that distinguish human beings from other species. From that space we are able to see the interconnectedness between
everything. Now we advance to a different level of creativity. We start creating our life in sync with the laws of nature, with ease and purpose. Every thought, word and action is impregnated with the consciousness that creates nature as well as the material world we see. We observe Mother Nature creating herself with ease, without hurry and with exquisite precision. Now, remember that we are a part of nature; therefore, we can also create with ease and precision, and with no expectation other than the pleasure of creating to express our essence. My suggestion is to make silence a daily habit. Find a quiet place to withdraw from any and all activities and give yourself the opportunity to experience silence. Don’t make this a quest or an additional bullet point on your list of goals. The extreme simplicity of practicing silence can tempt our logical mind to overthink and make this practice complicated. With loving compassion, observe and acknowledge this urge to over-analyze. Be absolutely okay with it, and again sit back and retract. Soon you will start recognizing the creative flow of ideas that come to your awareness. They will point you to inspiration and conscious creation.
We observe Mother Nature creating herself with ease, without hurry and with exquisite precision.
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HM HOWLER MAGAZINE | 21
PURA VIDA / LIFESTYLE
SPANISH
Unlocking Pronouns T here is a key rule for reading Spanish: DO NOT try to translate word for word in your head. Instinctively, you will want to, but it’s not a good idea. Invariably, you’ll find yourself in the middle of a sentence completely baffled. That’s because English and Spanish sentences don’t have the same structure; the words are in a different order. To overcome this Spanish learning challenge, you should read each sentence in your head as a whole. Pick out the words you know and allow your mind to logically put them together. Until your mind is trained to do these sentence translation calisthenics automatically, resist the urge to translate one word at a time.
Understanding Object Pronouns
Also try not to slam the page shut on this grammar talk and crawl into a fetal position waiting until it stops. Bear with me for a moment as I try to make it as painless as possible. By “it,” I’m referring to little words just like it in Spanish right before the verb … that until now you’ve just avoided and pretended don’t exist. How cool would it be to simply say the word “it” like in English? Think about it … how do you say “it” in Spanish? Such an important little word, so let’s deal with it. Please follow me into pronoun town.
The structure changes when you start replacing the object nouns with pronouns by placing them before the verb. 22
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By simple definition, a pronoun takes the place of a noun. Spanish pronoun town has many different inhabitants. We will focus on a trio of pronouns that are a bit troublesome.
Lo, La and Le
They might sound like the chorus of a quaint 1980s song, but they are pronouns. They take the place of nouns in a sentence that answer the questions “what?” (direct object) or “to whom?” (indirect object). Example: The boy gives the ball to the dog. What does the boy give? the ball (direct object noun) = it (direct object pronoun) To whom does he give it? the dog (indirect object noun) = him (indirect object pronoun) In English, we simply replace the nouns with the pronouns and keep on trucking: The boy gives it to him. In Spanish, it’s trickier. The base sentence has the same structure as in English: El chico da la pelota al perro (The boy gives the ball to the dog). However, the structure changes when you start replacing the object nouns with pronouns by placing them before the verb. In Spanish, the ball is la pelota (direct object noun). For the direct object pronoun (it), we drop pelota but keep la:
by Sylvia Barreto Benites El chico la da al perro. If the direct object noun you are replacing is masculine, the it pronoun becomes lo. Example: El chico da el palo (the stick) al perro = El chico lo da al perro. Using our original sentence, El chico da la pelota al perro (The boy gives the ball to the dog), let’s explore the Spanish le as the indirect object pronoun (it) replacing al perro (the dog): The boy gives the ball to him = El chico le da la pelota. Note: the indirect object pronoun le can be translated as to him or to her, regardless of whether the noun being replaced is masculine or feminine. Now, if you are still with me, prepare to have your mind blown. To say The boy gives it to him, here’s what happens: El chico se la da. Le becomes se whenever it precedes lo or la, but only when they are together. If you haven’t already gone off to pour yourself a stiff drink, I leave you with this advice for reading in Spanish: those pronouns you see before the verb (me, te, se, le, lo, la, nos, los, las or les) are receiving the action. Jump over them, figure out what the verb is doing and then swing back to see who or what the action is aimed at. As suggested before, read the full sentence first, start working with the words you know and let your brain figure out the structure.
Pondering Pronouns Yo doy el palo al perro. I give the stick to the dog
Le doy el palo. I give him the stick.
Lo doy al perro. I give it to the dog.
Se lo doy. I give it to him. howlermag.com
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PURA VIDA / LIFESTYLE
A Place In Between
By Dr. Gilberth Cavallini
Boarding Facility for Rescue Cases ANIMAL LIFE
A
This meets a critical need in the community that may not be readily apparent even to most animal lovers. Thanks to donations from caring animal lovers, rescued dogs like these will soon have a new place to stay while becoming ready for adoption. Photos: Schantz Productions
s many Howler readers are aware, Hospital Veterinario Cavallini has been working to help Guanacaste communities in various ways over the years. Animal rescue cases are an important focus of our efforts in providing special discounts to caring individuals and groups who do what they can with limited resources. The late Dawn Scott in Flamingo was an early role model for this kind of partnership with dedicated volunteers helping animals in need. Dawn’s outstanding example has since been followed by the leaders of groups we are privileged to collaborate with: Barbara Deppe with Barbara's Animal Rescue Clinic, Linette Matamoros at Yo Seré Su Voz Guancaste and Doris Luby of Homeless and Helpless. These registered non-profit charitable organizations rely on donations to make such a remarkable impact on animal well being. A current priority needing attention and financial support is the boarding facility we are building for rescued dogs. The boarding facility is designed for dogs recovering from non-infectious illnesses to stay during their transition to being ready for adoption in the near future. They have a chance to gain weight and strength being fed a healthy diet, while also getting used to being around people and other dogs. Also while boarding here, some of the dogs are being treated for skin conditions and common diseases like tick fever. This rescue dog boarding facility meets a critical need in the community that may not be readily apparent even to most animal lovers. As always, our
clinic will continue to provide treatment services for rescue cases at a discount, with donations covering the cost. However, we cannot afford the expenses of operating an animal rescue shelter for long-term or permanent boarding. For example, there are building maintenance costs for services such as electricity and water. At least one staff person is needed on-site 24-7 to care for the animals, including regular walks and weekly baths. Properly registered volunteers are always welcome to assist. The boarding facility project has been led by architect Amaya Artiñano, who previously managed the creation of our clinic and Dogs Hotel. The new boarding facility currently consists of cages at our property, where the roof and basement are in place. Construction of the facility is nearing completion, with the costs being covered by our own resources and donations from clients and friends. Comaco assisted with preparing a list of building materials and supplying them at a special discount to support the cause. Reserva Conchal has been involved with donations and volunteer work. We appreciate any donation you are willing to make, either in person at our front reception desk or to the following account: 100-01-060-000835-6, Banco Nacional, Hospital Veterinario Cavallini, Cedula Juridica: 3-101-455763. Please indicate on your donation: “Boarding Facility for Rescue Cases” or contact us directly. We are willing to credit sponsors for regular maintenance of the project. As always, a tax receipt will be issued for all contributions.
Help Stray and Wild Animals – Adopt • Donate • Volunteer 24 | #searchfindhowl| onlinecall: (506) 2652-9009 • email: tamarindovet@gmail.com howlermag.com
100% OF PROCEEDS GO DIRECTLY TO
BARBARA’S ANIMAL RESCUE CENTER
You are invited to attend the 6th Annual
DOG DAY AFTERNOON AT LUCY’S Sunday, March 24, 2019 • 4:00 - 7:00 PM
WIN, WIN OPPORTUNITY Great Raffle Prizes and 50/50 Draw to be won SILENT AUCTION Bid on some really good stuff from local businesses FOOD AND DRINK SPECIALS Eat & drink to your heart's content
Live Entertainment by PINKY
MIX AND MINGLE Join with family, friends & neighbors for a great evening and a great cause BARBARA'S CORNER Novelty pet items, organic pet treats, unique gifts for dog & cat lovers!
GUARO
MAIN CORNER BRASILITO TEL: 8688 0641
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GUANACASTE
DENTAL Advanced family, implant and cosmetic dental services
Call or email to schedule initial consultation Tamarindo - Garden Plaza
(506) 2215-5715 • US Toll Free (866) 978-8305 • info@guanacastedental.com 26
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DINING GUIDE GUIDE DINING HOWLER
Happy
s e n i t Valen Day!
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DINING GUIDE
PLAYAS DEL COCO
Avenida Central, across from El Coco Casino, Playas del Coco Hours Mon-Thu, 11am till late Fri-Sun, 9am till late Phone: 2670-1982 pete@coconutzbar.com Specialties Smoked BBQ Microbrewery Gourmet bar bites Sports bar Live music Private parties
COCONUTZ BAR & GRILL: Sports Bar Coconutz is your neighborhood sports bar and microbrewery in an exotic tropical setting, complete with gorgeous local hardwood, trees growing through the floor, license plates from all over the world, surfboards hanging from the rooftop, and of course ... our famous swing set! We feature the best tropical drink selection in the area, as well as our on-premise brewed Angry Goats beers on tap. Come visit the premier sports bar in Playas Del Coco.
MENU SELECTIONS Porky Piñas
Walking Taco
Smokey Shrimp Poppers
Chicken & Waffle Burger
Memphis Ribs
Al Pastor Pizza
Pineapple bites wrapped in bacon, topped with teriyaki and sesame seeds Fresh jumbo shrimp, sliced jalapeño and cream cheese, wrapped in bacon and smoked
Shredded chicken or beef, cheese, lettuce, pico de gallo, sour cream, fried tostada, grilled in tortilla Buttermilk fried chicken with waffle bun, American cheese, heat and sweet sauce
Half rack or whole rack, with choice of two sides
Adobe smoked pork, pineapple salsa, local fresh cheese, house mole sauce
SIMPLY SPANISH Table Talk Perdon, me regala ____. — Pardon, can you give me ___. Permiso, me puede traer ____. — Excuse me, can you bring me ___.
Pueblito Sur #10, Las Palmas, Playas del Coco Hours Lunch/Dinner 11:00-14:30 and 17:00-21:00 Closed Wednesday Phone: 8467-7664 chesirloin@gmail.com
Che Sirloin
Steak House & Grill
Che Sirloin Steak House & Grill is a meat lover’s heaven. Located steps from the beach in a tranquil garden setting with indoor and outdoor seating. Specialties Prime Cut Steaks, Gourmet Hamburgers, Brunch
MENU SELECTIONS
Con permiso, necesito ____. — Excuse me, I need ___. Me gustaría la carne rojo ____. I would like my meat rare ___. medio rojo — medium rare medio — medium bien cocido — well done labridor de vino — wine bottle opener asado — grilled batido — smoothie botella — bottle botella de agua — bottle of water copa — wine glass cubiertos — cutlery
Ribeye Steak
cuchara — spoon
Animal Burger
cuchillo — knife
Served with salad or french fries
With chorizo, grilled pineapple, fried egg and bacon
Homemade Cheesecake With dulce de leche
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cucharilla — teaspoon fresco natural — fresh fruit drink
frito — fried horeado — baked jarra — pitcher jugo — juice mantel — tablecloth plato — dish, plate plato ondo — bowl servilleta — napkin tenedor — fork taza de cafe — cup of coffee vaso — glass
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LAS CATALINAS
DINING GUIDE
At Casa Chameleon, 4km north of the Potrero soccer field Hours Daily, 7am-10pm No children under 12 years Phone: 2103-1200 concierge@ casachameleonhotels.com Specialties Fresh fish, sunset cocktails, "boquitas" menu
Sentido Norte: Fine Dining Sentido Norte, a restaurant and bar at Casa Chameleon, proudly offers an adult fine-dining experience that celebrates the best of Costa Rican cuisine. Your drive through winding roads above the quaint beach town of Las Catalinas is rewarded by an unforgettable but affordable taste of luxury. Just a few steps uphill from the bright and welcoming entrance, your table awaits in a gorgeous, open-air perch framed by a panoramic view of the Pacific. A design motif incorporating responsibly sourced teak adds a sense of warmth and well-being to the romantically lit atmosphere. All food and drinks are inspired by the country’s bountiful abundance, combining uniquely local and native ingredients in the glass and on the plate.
MENU SELECTIONS Overnight Oats
$18
Casa Chameleon Burger $19
Guacamole and Salsa
$10
French Toast
$12
Ceviche $14
Octopus & Mussels
$29
Knife & Fork Tortillas
$14
Grilled Skirt Steak
$30
Fresh Tuna Poke
$24
With almond milk, yogurt, fruit, cashews, local honey or tapa dulce
With sweet plantains and coconut milk cream
Angus burger with arugula, Swiss or goat cheese and aioli Fresh fish ceviche, leche de tigre, homemade "chilero"
Grilled Chicken Wrap
Octopus and mussels wok-sautéed in garlic butter and white wine
$12
Chicharrón or vegan huevos rancheros
With greens, avocado & tomato, spicy aioli
Vegan Omelettes
Vegan Bowl
With asparagus, mushrooms and caramelized onion
$6
Hearts of palm ceviche, avocado & tomato
$19
Quinoa, mushroom and squash picadillo salad, spicy garbanzo beans
Skirt steak, chimichurri sauce, salad, french fries
Raw tuna, mango, avocado
Prices shown include 13% tax and 10% service / Prices subject to change
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DINING GUIDE
SURFSIDE / POTRERO
1 km east of Banco Nacional in Flamingo Hours Daily, 6:30am-9:30pm Phone: 2654-4671, 2654-5340 Specialties Fresh seafood and pasta
NASU: Creative Tropical Cuisine Welcome to Nasu Restaurant, tropical creative cuisine. Join us oceanside, where the freshest catch is prepared every day by our acclaimed chef. Enjoy the culinary treasures of Costa Rica, where tradition and innovation meet.
MENU SELECTIONS NASU Salad
Shrimp Spicy Tacos
SURFSIDE / POTRERO
Potrero, 800m north of Banco Nacional Hours Daily, 11am -10pm Kitchen closes 9pm
$14
$16
Cheesecake
$8
$25
Grilled lobster garlic buttered, baby potatoes with rosemary and mixed vegetables
Keylime Pie
Special dessert of the chef
$8
MENU SELECTIONS Grilled Scallops
c10000
Shrimp Ceviche
c10500
Catch of the Day
c19000
Bang Bang Shrimp
c10000
Seafood Platter
c19000
Grilled Lobster Tails - Market Price
Grilled in a bath of Cacique liquor, lime and garlic
Fresh mahi mahi, grilled jumbo shrimp, sautĂŠed calamari, with rice pilaf and grilled vegetables
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Homemade cheesecake with blueberry topping
Private residence on the beach transformed into a quaint restaurant and bar, renowned for its fresh seafood. Come and enjoy incredible food and awesome sunsets and views of the Pacific Ocean.
With tropical salsa, grilled vegetables & potatoes or rice
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With baby potatoes and carrots garlic buttered
The Beach House: Beachfront Dining
Phone: 2654-6203 Specialties Fresh seafood Epic sunset view Call for reservations
Grilled Octopus
Flour tortilla, breaded shrimps, mango coleslaw and spicy mayonnaise
Pacific Lobster All taxes included in price
$10
Lettuce mix, avocado, hearts of palm, blackberries, orange and passion fruit dressing
Peruvian style marinated shrimp, red pepper and onion, tomato and cilantro with plantain chips Crispy, creamy, sweet, and spicy: shrimp in cornmeal breading with tangy Thai chili sauce
Two roasted lobster tails in wine-garlic butter sauce with grilled vegetables and rosemary potatoes
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BRASILITO
DINING GUIDE
Main corner, Brasilito Hours Mon-Fri, 11am-midnight Sat-Sun, 10am-midnight Phone: +506 4702-0826 costarica@ lucysretiredsurfers.com LucysCostaRica Specialties Only for the brave: Our infamous scorpion shot
February Event Schedule 2/1 - Ladies Night
Lucy’s Retired Surfers Bar & Restaurant: Coastal Cuisine Beachfront restaurant and bar serving unique coastal fusion dishes and cocktails featuring the freshest ingredients in Guanacaste! Lucy’s is more than just a restaurant, it’s a lifestyle. With locations in some of the most tubular spots around the world (New Orleans, Key West, Costa Rica and Aruba), we know how to have a good time. Lucy's’ daily food and drink specials are boat-to-table and will give you something new to try every day. With live music, a radical bar scene and six large-screen TVs, Lucy’s is Guanacaste's hottest new bar and restaurant!
2/3 - Super Bowl Bash 2/8 - Ladies Night 2/6 - Concert - Cougar Love 2/12- Live music by Fatiniza 2/14- Valentine's Day Dinner 2/15- Ladies Night 2/17-Blues Festival Brunch 2/22- Ladies Night 2/23- Paint Night 2/26- Live Music by Fatiniza Check social media for updates
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MENU SELECTIONS Shaka Ceviche c5,500
Serious Nachos c6,000
Fish Tacos
Avocado Fritas c5,500
The Juicy Lucy c6,500
Shrimp Tacos c5,500
CheeseQuesadilla c5,000
Tuna Salad
Steak Tacos
Delicious fresh local fish and shrimp in a citrus marinade topped with avocado
Beer-battered avocado slices served with black bean salsa and homemade ranch
Flour tortilla overflowing with melted cheese, served with pico and guacamole
Fully loaded nachos topped with beans, pico, sour cream, and our rockin’ guac
Our famous 8 oz. burger served on a brioche bun with Lucy’s special sauce
c6,500
Freshly seared yellowfin served over spring mix with fresh fruit and feta
c6,000
Blackened local fish topped with mango-pineapple slaw and avocado crema
Fried or grilled shrimp tossed in a sassy pao pao sauce, topped with cabbage slaw
c6,500
Marinated flank steak topped with jalapeño chimichurri and queso fresco
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DINING GUIDE
PLAYA FLAMINGO
SOMEWHERE OMEWHERE BAR AR Margaritaville Beach Resort Playa Flamingo Hours Daily from 4pm to 11pm Happy hour: 4:30-6:30 Phone: 2654-4444, ext. 3264 Specialties Nachos, tacos, burgers, salads and sandwiches
World Famous Margaritas!
5 o'Clock Somewhere Bar & Grill: Drinks and Casual Dining
Best place on the Gold Coast to take in panoramic oceanfront views and multi-screen sports TV while enjoying hand-crafted cocktails and a delicious casual dining menu. You will want to return again and again for juicy cheeseburgers and mouthwatering tacos, not to mention the perfect margaritas and other specialty cocktails. Enjoy a beautiful sunset view during the daily Happy Hour 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. Wednesday through Saturday nights feature live entertainment with the best of the area's local bands and musical talent.
A perfect blend of Costa Rican and international cuisine that includes freshly caught local fish and grass-fed beef. Enjoy the oceanfront sea breeze on the outdoor patio or dine inside in air-conditioned comfort.
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An Italian bistro with a tropical view. Choose from a selection of pizzas, pastas and paninis or build your own dish with a variety of fresh, delicious ingredients.
Hours Daily 6:30am to 9:30pm breakfast, lunch, dinner
Hours Daily 5pm to 11:30pm Pizza only from 9:30pm
Phone: 2654-4444 ext. 3269
Phone: 2654-4444 ext. 3268
Specialties Fresh fish, grass-fed beef, International buffets, kids menu
Specialties Specialty artisanal pizza oven; design your own pizzas and pastas
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La Plaza, Playa Flamingo Hours: Daily, 7am-9:30pm Phone: 2554-4136 Specialties Check out @mariescostar for weekly special event nights
Marie's:
Local and International The place in Flamingo for delicious breakfast, lunch, dinner, and cocktails with great service. Live music and weekly Monday Morning Market
Present ad for complimentary Passion Fruit Mimosa with breakfast, lunch or dinner entree purchase.
MENU SELECTIONS
Flamingo - 100m south of road to Potrero
Vaca Loka:
Italian Restaurant
Hours Daily, 5:30pm-10:30pm Closed Wednesday
True Italian cuisine. Pasta like you are in Roma! Fresh bruschetta served when you arrive. Buon appetito!
Phone: 8532-8613 Specialties Pizza, pasta, meat, fish
MENU SELECTIONS
Eggs Benedict
c4.200
House Lasagna
Chicken Caesar Wrap
c4.600
Ribeye c6.500
PLAYA FLAMINGO
DINING GUIDE
c6.500
3km south of Huacas, road to Tamarindo Hours Daily, 7am-9pm Breakfast 7am-10am
HUACAS
Fish Tacos c7.000
La Playita: Poolside Dining Located at the Seis Playas Hotel, La Playita restaurant and bar is open to hotel guests and the public, and is known for its friendly and inviting environment. It is the ideal setting for sharing good food and drinks with family and friends, or a romantic dinner poolside while enjoying the convenient distance to our six local beaches.
MENU SELECTIONS
Phone: 2653-6818 info@seisplayashotel.com
Broken Yolk Sandwich
$12
Pasta
Specialties Food cooked to your taste — con mucho gusto Friday Night Texas Barbecue
Breakfast Quesadilla
$12
Open Grill
BLT La Playita
$10
Pineapple FlambĂŠ
Fried egg, bacon or ham and cheese on toast, served with seasonal fruit Eggs, tomato, onion, sweet pepper and cheese, served with seasonal fruit Always a favorite for a light bite to eat: bacon, lettuce and tomato
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$14
Build your own pasta bowl, with a mixed salad
From $16
Pork tenderloin, chicken breast, ribeye, New York strip, beef tenderloin & catch of the day
$4
Our most popular dessert served hot with vanilla ice cream
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Hours Mon, 5pm-9pm Tues-Sun 3pm-11pm Phone: 2653-6296 8729-5640
New York Pizza: Pizzeria
New York Pizzeria is your go-to pizza spot in Guanacaste, for an authentic New York style pizza or calzone. Dine-in or take-out available. Enjoy! Specialties Authentic New York style pizza and calzones. Freshly made breadsticks.
Hours By reservation Phone: 8869-9765 Specialties Zipline and BBQ buffet for only $85.
Black Stallion:
Rustic Outdoor BBQ
Dine with the stars of Guanacaste on a private ranch. Enjoy a delicious BBQ buffet with sides. Wine, beer and sangria included! Call for reservations. Available for private parties and events.
MENU SELECTIONS
MENU SELECTIONS
Meat Lover's Pizza
Mixed BBQ Buffet
$45
House Special Pizza
Seafood Buffet
$45
Pepperoni, ham, salami, bacon, and ground beef
Pepperoni, ham, mushrooms, onions, and sweet peppers
Baby back ribs, chorizo and chicken, sides included
A delicious array of seafood and sides dishes
PLAYA GRANDE
the roof Pizza • Bar • Sunset tamarindo, costa rica
Pots & Bowls: Main road to Playa Grande Hours Daily, 8am - 5pm Phone: 4701-2394 potsandbowls@gmail.com
Coffee Shop and Plants
Fresh, healthy and fun. Focus on homemade ingredients. Different dietary options: gluten free lactose free - vegan. Specialties Coffee, plants and pots Costa Rican boutique Workshops
Peanut butter, cacao, almond milk, granola, bee pollen, nibs
Hours Daily, 7:30am to midnight Happy Hours: 4pm - 7pm Phone: (506) 7240-6072 Specialties Best ocean view in town, amazing sunset, wood fire pizza, private events.
MENU SELECTIONS Choco-Banana NiceCream
4th floor above Super Compro
The ROOF:
Sunset Experience Come and enjoy Tamarindo’s best sunset experience on our rooftop with family and friends. With pool tables and many activities throughout the week, we’re the best place in town for your event or holiday time. Call for reservations!
MENU SELECTIONS $9
Thin Crust Pizza
Thick Family Pizza Tuna Poke $14 Sushi rice, avocado, edamame, wakame, mango Italian Pasta
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TAMARINDO
HUACAS 200m west of the Brasilito/ Huacas crossroads, Huacas www.nypizzeriahuacas.com @nypizzeriahuacas
8 min. drive from Tamarindo, 2km south Villarreal
VILLARREAL
DINING GUIDE
Hours Daily, noon to 9:30pm Mon, 7-9pm, Live Marimba Wed, 7-9pm, Avellino Fri, 7-9pm, Live Marimba Phone: 2653-0075 restaurante @hotelcapitansuizo.com Specialties Healthy dishes made from scratch with local and fresh products All taxes included in price
Calle Del Parque at the curve between Condo Diria and Balcones del Pacifico Hours Daily, 5:30pm to 10pm Closed Tuesdays Phone: 7006-1476 www.tamarindobarefoot.com Specialties A tropical fusion experience of seafood, fish, meats, and vegetarian dishes with gluten free and vegan options Order/reserve online #s earchf indh owl
El Barco Del Capitán: European-Tico Fusion, Beachfront Restaurant El Barco del Capitán is nestled in a beautiful tropical garden within the Hotel Capitán Suizo and offers a modern, healthy and fresh cuisine. Our chef, Jujo Molina, has created the dishes inspired by his European heritage and the incredible products available in Costa Rica. Using our homegrown ingredients from our organic garden, we strive to offer an environmentally friendly menu and an authentic experience to our guests.
MENU SELECTIONS Tacos Carne (Lunch)
$15
Tartar Capitan (Dinner)
$13
The Veggie (Lunch)
$15
Linguini (Dinner)
$23
Lomito (Dinner)
$28
Beef, tortillas with mixed cabbage salad, guacamole and tamarindo sauce
Tuna and mango tartar with capers and a cilantro, ginger and soy dressing
Grilled portobello, tomato, zucchini, chilealmonds-garlic sauce, homemade bun
Calamari Crujientes (Snack) $13
Crispy calamari with homemade green pesto and a honey, red onion escabèche
Calamari, jumbo shrimps, mussels, Spanish chorizo, cherry tomatoes, white wine 200gr of tenderloin with a tamarind sauce over Swiss Roësti and vegetables
BAREFOOT Restaurant-Lounge: Poolside and Garden Deck Dining
Tropical oasis apart from the noise and crowds of Tamarindo's main street, where you can experience a quiet dinner and a relaxing lounge atmosphere. You can choose the garden deck or our Costa Rican rancho "Shakalaka" poolside deck. Make reservations online or call, or place an order online for pickup, delivery or special order.
MENU SELECTIONS Pico Poke (G)
$9.50
Seared tuna with mango, avocado, over seaweed salad served with ginger soy sauce
Tropical Spring Rolls (VE/G)
Rice noodle wraps filled with fresh vegetables, mango and avocado
Reef Salad (G)
$8
$16.99
Fresh seafood and fish salad that includes octopus, shrimp, calamari, clams and seaweed
Grilled Mahi-Mahi (G)
$16
Grilled Costa Rican Trout (G)
$16
Ocean Potion
$16
Grilled mahi-mahi over a bed of spinach topped with caramelized onions
Grilled Costa Rican trout served with our house coconut and almond sauce
Tropical seafood and fish soup with coconut cream served with avocado and plantain
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TAMARINDO
Hotel Capitán Suizo, Playa Tamarindo
TAMARINDO / LANGOSTA
DINING GUIDE
DINING GUIDE
PALM BEACH
Palm Beach, next to the estuary Hours Breakfast available all day long: 7:30am-2:30pm Lunch: 11am-3pm Dinner: 5:30pm-9pm Phone: 2653-0975 frontdesk@hotelbulabula.com Specialties
Daily:
Sunset happy hour 50% off appetizers 4-6pm
Monday:
Mexican all you care to eat buffet 5:30-8:30
Wednesday:
Italian All you care to eat buffet 5:30-8:30
Specialty coffees and espresso
The Great Waltini's - Bula Bula: American Fusion Cuisine Enjoy casual fine dining and experience “a fusion of the Americas” in a tranquil and inviting setting. At the Great Waltini’s, you can enjoy a sumptuous meal in an attractive dining area or choose to sit under the stars and enjoy your meal on the garden patio. Choose from houseaged steaks, seafood dishes, and down-home fare. Top with cocktails and desserts — the complete experience. Located in beautiful Palm Beach Estates next to the estuary. We are easily accessible from Tamarindo via boat taxi (complimentary with dinner reservations). Pickup time are 5, 5:30 and 6 pm. Please call before 2pm to reserve boat taxi (2653-0975). Happy hour – includes domestic beer, well drinks, famous giant Bula margaritas and appetizer specials.
MENU SELECTIONS Ahi Tuna
Annie's Salad
Double Cut Pork Chop
Hand Carved Turkey
Blackened Shrimp Salad
Aged Filet Mignon
Mahi-Mahi
Baked Lasagna
St. Louis Style Pork Ribs
Mixed Seafood Combo
Aged New York Steak
8 oz filet prepared tropical, blackened, sautéed or fried Oven roasted turkey, mashed potatoes, cranberry sauce and house made gravy 8 oz filet prepared tropical, blackened, sautéed or fried Tuna, mahi-mahi, jumbo shrimp, calamari, and mussels in a white wine saffron sauce
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Blackened chicken breast with avocado over crisp greens and fresh vegetables Blackened jumbo shrimp, sliced avocado over fresh lettuce and fresh vegetables Italian sausage, beef and pork, tomato, ricotta, mozzarella and romano cheese
10 oz cut prepared charbroiled, blackened or au poivre in brandy cream sauce 10 oz cut prepared charbroiled, blackened or au poivre in brandy cream sauce Baked tender and served with our famous tropical Bula Bula BBQ sauce
10 oz cut prepared charbroiled, blackened or au poivre in brandy cream sauce
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