Howler Magazine Costa Rica April 2019

HOWLER April 2019

C o s ta R i c a Li fest yle, T ravel & A dve nture

magazine

since 1996

Leading the Green Way

y a D h t r a E Free copy

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EDITORIAL

Protect Our Planet, Honor Our Reputation to light. But it should not be the only time of year we are conscious about our planet. The issues being highlighted this month remain important all year round. As many Howler readers are either expats living in Costa Rica, or tourists seeking an adventurous getaway, I want to take this opportunity to point out some of the important environmental challenges facing people who have made their home here or are just visiting.

Trash is always problematic here, both along roadsides and on beaches. Without proper waste

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s I sit in the airport waiting to pick up friends or family members, it’s typical to hear the loudspeaker greeting repeated many times. Arriving visitors are welcomed to Costa Rica and urged to respect the environment: Please enjoy, but do not take. I took particular notice of the direction not to take seashells.

It made me ponder the times we have traveled to beaches around the world and thought nothing of picking up a seashell and taking it home as a natural souvenir. I have since come to appreciate that such a small individual action affects the environment in a big way.

During my years of living in this country, I have come to better respect the reasons for not messing with the environment. I refer to Costa Rica as the little gem in the big world. We all need to do our part to keep this place as pristine as we can.

April, being Earth Month in many parts of the world, is the ideal time for bringing environmental issues

I refer to Costa Rica as the little gem in the big world. management, everything thrown away has the potential to end up in our inland waterways and oceans, affecting wildlife habitats and our quality of life as well. Visually, this situation is ugly; it is also potentially dangerous to our health. Fortunately, many groups have been aggressively attacking this issue: Flamingo Beach Association, ADI in Tamarindo, Rastra Recycle in Playas del Coco and Recycle Hermosa are just a few in the Pacific coast area. I know that is only a handful of the organizations doing their part, and you should be aware there are many more I did not

mention here by name. I am also very encouraged by the early success of Costa Rica’s new nationwide ecolones program to promote recycling, within a short time of its introduction during Earth Month 2018. We have an introduction to ecolones in this issue (flip magazine cover story) and will continue to write about this promising initiative as it expands and gains traction. It’s another example of the Howler being a platform to inform readers how to get involved in your communities to better them.

Working on our April magazine also means Semana Santa is just around the corner. This is a time of year when many of Costa Rica’s coastal areas are inundated with crowds seeking to enjoy the beaches.

We see the impact when too many of those visitors leave piles of trash behind. Please don’t be one of them.

Make sure to pick up, pack up and properly dispose of your trash after enjoying the day wherever you are. It can save the lives of animals and also honor the reputation that Costa Rica has built as a green country.

The enforcement of measures to protect our planet is on all of us as citizens of the world. This is our earth and our environment. Be a good guest and leave no footprint. Make our world a better place in all aspects.

John B. Quam

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HOWLER T r o o p

April 2019 Vol. 24 No. 4

Photographer Spotlight

PUBLISHER / EDITOR-in-CHIEF John B. Quam

Tony Jovanovic/ Via de Agua Images Contributor Surfer Profile: Surfer & Surf Photographer Tony Jovanovic/ Via de Agua Images seeks to capture and share those precious moments of “stoke” surfers are so fortunate to experience. Based out of Dominical, Costa Rica & Squamish, BC Canada. I find immense pleasure bearing witness to an empty wave, a maneuver in the critical part of a wave or just seeing a surfer glide down the face of Pachamama’s ocean pulse.

Website: www.viadeagua.com, Facebook: Via De Agua Phone/ text/ Whatsapp: (Costa Rica) 506 6369 5086 (Canada) 604 892 4397

WRITERS

Carlos Manuel Rodriguez. Current Minister of MINAE. Previously, regional vice president of Conservacion International and director at the Center for the Conservation of Biodiversity.

Lifelong lover and protector of nature.

Ellen Zoe Golden. Former entertainment biz PR flack, now living the dream as a travel agent and journalist in Tamarindo.

Fabricio Riggioni. Investment Consultant at NATIVU. 8301-0663. fabricio@nativu.com Gilberth Cavallini. Veterinary Doctor, owner Cavallini Veterinary Services, Villarreal (MegaSuper Plaza). tamarindovet@gmail.com Herbert Weinman, MD, MBA. thedoctorisinsharkfm@gmail.com Ivan Granados. Managing Partner at GM Attorneys.

He specializes in real estate and corporate law. igranados@gmattorneyscr.com Jonathan Hiltz. Journalist and published author.

His latest book, The Wild West: Canada’s Legalization of Marijuana is available on Amazon.

Laura Méndez. Founders of Pura Vida Vibrations.

Offering sound journeys, breath work experiences, cacao ceremonies & other activities. hello@puravidavibrations.com Marian Paniagua. Certified nurse and yoga Instructor, and local artisan, born and raised in Guanacaste. marianpaniagua@gmail.com Nicole Rangel. Managing Editor of Howler and freelance writer and editor. Making memories forever with her family. nicole.rangel@gmail.com Patricia Sterman. Argentinian fashion design graduate, living in Costa Rica for 20 years. Owner of Azul Profundo Boutique, jewelry manufacturer and co-founder of SalveMonos animal protection group.

Rachel Cherry White. Chases the sun from Michigan to Costa Rica with her four children and husband. She is a contributor to Fodor’s Guide to Costa Rica, Michigan HOME & Lifestyle and online. She is working on a novel.

Sandy Sandoval. Bilingual freelance journalist focusing on environment, arts and culture. www. clippings.me/sandysandoval

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C r e at i v e D i r e c t o r Martin Svoboda E d i t o r i a l S ta f f Nicole Rangel - Managing Editor Debbie Bride - Copy Editor Marian Paniagua - Creative Director Pura Vida and ACE departments Graphic Design M. Alauddin - Print Specialist

Steve Love. The Real Estate Detective. Forty plus years of living, working, surfing and adventuring in Costa Rica. Eco-adventure / wellness lodges are his passion. greenland55@gmail.com

O p e r at i o n s Nikki Durling Floribeth Rodriguez Rosales

Sylvia Barreto Benites. Owner of Spanish for Expats, a tutoring and translation service. spanishforexpats23@gmail.com

C o n ta c t

Tatiana Vandruff. Principal LEED GA, at Grupo Pacifico Architects and Builders, sustainable design and construction for over 30 years. tvandruff@grupopacificocr.com Tom Schultz. BS Biology and Geology, avid birder and nature photographer, retired software executive. tom@pananima.com

PHOTOGRAPHERS Enric Coromina. Passionate about photography and surfing in Guiones, Nosara in Guanacaste, Costa Rica. psurfreport@gmail.com. www. photographysurfreport.com Laura Clemente. Brazilian marine biologist, dive master and photographer. besaltyadventures@ gmail.com

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Rafa Sandoval. Owner BeFit Retreat. Rafa was born and raised in Costa Rica. He is an avid surf photographer and videographer. www.befitreatreat.com. www.RafaSand.com Richie Velasque. Professional photographer and director of photography. Owner of Carive Pro Photo and Cinema. info@cariveproductions.com Tamcam Media. A collective of creative masterminds focused on videography, social media management & GoPro rentals. tamcamrentals.com. tamcamrentals@gmail.com

John Quam - Managing Partner headmonkey@howlermag.com Martin Svoboda - Managing Partner martin@howlermag.com Editor: editor@howlermag.com Advertising: ads@howlermag.com CR Office: (506) 4701-5942 US Office: (720) 507-7596 (leave message) Howler Magazine Costa Rica @thehowlermag @howlermagazine The Howler Gold Coast CR S.A. Ced. Juridica: 3-101-725213 The opinions, beliefs and viewpoints expressed by the various authors in this publication do not necessarily reflect the opinions, beliefs and viewpoints of Howler organization or its advertisers.

All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted in any form or by any means, including photocopying, recording, or other electronic or mechanical methods, without the prior written permission of the publisher, except in the case of brief quotations embodied in critical reviews and certain other noncommercial uses permitted by copyright law. For permission requests write to: info@howlermag.com.

The Howler Magazine does not assume responsibility for the content of its advertisements.

Read all current and past articles online

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BUSINESS DEVELOpmENT Martin Svoboda - Managing Partner John D. Lane - Director of Business Development

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Images not credited are acquired from stock photography services.

Copyright © 2019 The Howler Gold Coast CR S.A.

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HOWLER

CO N T E N T S

Earth Day Costa Rica Cover Story

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4 Up Front

4 - Editorial 6 - Contributors and Howler Troop 10 - Community Services 12 - Cover Story: Earth Day - Protecting our Species 14 - Earth Day: What Good Can I Do? 16 - Earth Day: In Our Own Backyard

18 Travel, Adventure & Surfing CR

Nosara

Cool Places

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18 - Cool Places: Nosara 22 - Protecting Species: Rainforest Adventure 26 - Featured Park: Tenorio Volcano National Park 30 - Creature Feature: Costa Rican Vultures 32 - Surfing CR: Surf Events 32 - Tide, Sun & Moon Chart 34 - Surf Profile: Sam Reidy

36 CR Biz

Tenorio Volcano National Park

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36 - CR Government: MINAE: Why? 38 - Feature: Sustainable Life at Reserva Conchal 40 - Doing Business Right: Nature's Sweet Spot 42 - Real Estate Spotlight: CR Hotspots 46 - Investment Chat: Good Investment Areas 48 - Property Options: What's Available 52 - Opportunity of the Month: Gem in Junquillal 54 - Building CR: "Bee" Kind to Vital Insects 56 - LegalEase: Tax Newsflash

60 Directories Flip Mini-Mags HOWLER Living Costa Rica

Costa Rica's

Piece of Paradise Property Options

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New Recycling Program That Pays You Back

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April 2019

DINING GUIDE

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Pura Vida: Living CR & Dining Guide

Read all current and past articles online

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COMMUNITY SERVICES

FIRE UNIT

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EMBASSY CONTACT INFO UNITED STATES +506 2519-2000 CANADA +506 2242-4000 EUROPEAN UNION (EU) DELEGATION +506 2283-2959

POLICE & FIRST RESPONDERS

TOURIST POLICE

FLAMINGO +506 2654-5086 VILLARREAL +506 2244-6173 PLAYAS DEL COCO +506 2670-0258 SANTA CRUZ +506 2680-0136 LIBERIA +506 2665-0609 LA FORTUNA DE SAN CARLOS +506 2479-9689

NUEVO ARENAL +506 4001-6911

TILARAN +506 2695-5001

FIRE UNIT 1118 FILADELFIA +506 2688-8733 HUACAS FIRE STATION +506 2201-9079

AMBULANCE, HOSPITALS & MEDICAL CLINICS EMERGENCIAS 2000 +506 8930-2000 LIBERIA AMBULANCE

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ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS TAMARINDO | Waves of Sobriety Mon / Thur • 5:30 pm | Wed / Sat • 10:30 am Behind the Tamarindo circle, through Pedro´s Surf Shop Ellen 2653-0897 / 8484-1360 ellenzoe@aol.com Suzanne 8507-5407 smchannell@hotmail.com AlAnon meeting Fri • 10:30am cherylthepsychic@yahoo.ca VILLARREAL (Español) |Vida Real Jose Chops 8720-1984

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SANTA CRUZ +506 2681-4000 Monday / Wednesday / Friday • 6:00pm LA FORTUNA DE SAN CARLOS +506 2479-1553 Sardinal Beach

TILARAN +506 2695-8475 Centro Plaza Sardinal(50 mts east from police), store N. 6.

Max 8917-2222 or John 2672-1163

SAN JOSE +506 2295-3851

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COVER STORY

by Sandy Sandoval & Tatiana Vandruff

Now It’s Time to Protect Our Species

Earth Day 2019 E Costa Rica’s conservation efforts to protect its biodiversity have been a model for the world.

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arth Day is observed on April 22 each year in many countries. The purpose is to bring people together to understand the importance of protecting our natural resources and the catastrophic consequences of not doing so. It dates back to 1970, after California Senator Gaylord Nelson witnessed the ravages of a massive oil spill in Santa Barbara. Moved by this devastating event, Nelson managed to place the environmental protection topic onto the political agenda through a national educational discussion, first held on April 22, 1970.

This inaugural Earth Day galvanized 20 million Americans to take a stand on environmental issues. Groups that had been fighting separate battles against oil spills, polluting factories, power plants, raw sewage, toxic dumps, pesticides, freeways, the loss of wilderness, and the extinction of wildlife found a common ground. Early success from the milestone event led to the creation of the United States Environmental Protection Agency and the passage of the Clean Air, Clean Water, and Endangered Species Acts.

Through these ground-breaking initiatives, Earth Day is now celebrated in over 180 countries worldwide.

Protect our species

The theme of Earth Day 2019 is “Protect Our Species.” It aims to raise awareness about the millions of species around the world that are in distress. The great culprit is reckless human activity with negative effects posing impending danger to all living things: habitat loss, poaching and illegal trafficking of animals, deforestation and pollution just to name a few.

According to data from the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF), the number of animals on land has decreased by 40 percent since 1970. Marine life has also fallen by 40 percent and insect populations have declined by 75 percent in some parts of the world — a wake-up call for everyone. Undoubtedly, advocacy to protect our planet’s species must be at the forefront of each country’s efforts.

Costa Rica’s species

Costa Rica is home to four percent of the world’s species. With 615 animal species per 10,000 square miles, that’s a big deal, isn’t it?

This year’s Earth Day theme focuses on six species and you will find four of them in Costa Rica: bees, coral reefs, insects and whales. Fortunately, Costa Rica’s conservation efforts to protect its

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Humpback whale breaching in Marino Ballena National Park Coral in Costa Rica is diminishing, but thanks to organizations like Raising Coral Costa Rica, the coral is being regenerated. Photo courtesy of Raising Coral Costa Rica

Stunning vista in the valley of Orosi at sunrise, a pinpoint of biodiversity worth saving.

by Rachel Cherry biodiversity haveWhite been a

model for the world. In fact, this goes back to 1828, when government agencies here were assigned the task of fighting for the conservation and reforestation of mountains and plantations.

In 1945, the country began to establish protected areas, subdivided to protect different habitats such as green rainforests, mangroves, cloud forests, beaches, volcanoes, waterfalls and coral reefs.

Currently, 25 percent of Costa Rica’s land mass is in protected areas and national parks. The country has around 58 wildlife refuges, 32 protected zones, 27 national parks, 15 wetlands, 11 forest reserves and eight biological reserves.

Costa Rica, for decades, has made impressive environmental advances, including 95 percent carbonfree emission on its electricity

production. Progress in recent decades has seen very little deforestation, with total forest coverage exceeding 52 percent of the nation’s terrain.

Today, Costa Rica again is at the forefront of making a change. With the bicentennial government in place, President Carlos Alvarado Quesada and First Lady Claudia Dobles have made this a priority by signing a Decrete (Oficialización del Plan Nacional de Descarbonización). This formalizes plans to abolish the use of fossil fuels and generate a green economy for the world to see and the people of Costa Rica to enjoy. On February 24, 2019, President Alvarado presented the National Plan to Decarbonize 2018-2050 (photo page 14). More than 300 national and international leaders witnessed this watershed event, shining the world spotlight on a

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Costa Rican large purple giant red-winged grasshopper.

Euglossine bee in Costa Rica. Photo: Laura Russo

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Feb. 24, 2019: Costa Rica President, Alvarado Quesada, presenting the national decarbonization plan.

national initiative that will push forward a modern economy.

Besides generating employment, it will increase economic growth based on the so-called 3D model: decarbonizing, digitalizing, and decentralizing electric production.

With Costa Rica’s commitment to reduce gas emissions and avoid the greenhouse effect comes participation in worldwide efforts to prevent global temperatures from increasing relative to preindustrial climate conditions.

The following are pivotal to Costa Rica’s decarbonization initiative: transportation and sustainable mobility; energy, sustainable industry and construction; integral waste management; sustainable agriculture, change and land use; and nature-based solutions.

An example to follow

Every living thing on earth plays a remarkable ecological role, from delicate bees to the largest animals — whales.

From microscopic insects to coral reefs, all species form an intricately woven system of collaboration in the complex web of life. All are worthy of our protection in ways that make a difference.

Over the past 50 years, nations with ever-more compelling evidence of urgency to act have commemorated Earth Day. It’s an occasion for educating young and old citizens alike on the impact they can have. Short- and long-term investments of time and effort, however small as individuals, will make the world a better place.

Left: Costa Rica's first lady Claudia Dobles.

Photo courtesy of Reserva Conchal

What Good Can I Do?

E

ach one of us can make a significant change to protect the earth, even acting alone. All it takes is to be mindful that WE as individuals are part of these greater efforts to save our species. We can add a grain of sand by being involved in our own smaller world.

Volunteer locally.

Plant native wildflowers and trees inviting bees, hummingbirds and butterflies.

Conserve water. Take shorter showers and turn water off while brushing your teeth.

Wash your clothes with cold water.

Cut back on plastic consumption. Recycle, reuse and reduce. Do not use single-use plastics such as plastic bags, straws or Styrofoam containers.

Bring reusable bags to shop.

Below: Costa Rica's President Carlos Alvarado Quesada.

Pick up garbage whenever possible, at the beach and during your walks everywhere.

All photos courtesy of Casa Presidencial Photographer: Julieth Mendez Ramirez

Buy local.

Use environmentally friendly, non-toxic cleaning products.

Carpool whenever possible, use public transportation, ride a bike or walk.

Change your car’s air filter regularly.

Replace inefficient incandescent light bulbs with efficient LED or CFL light bulbs.

Use energy-efficient appliances, and use your dishwasher only when it’s full.

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IN OUR OWN BACKYARD

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any organizations in Costa Rica are working tirelessly to save our species and make that difference. Let’s meet some of them.

Api-Agricultura

Located in Puerto Viejo in Limón province, ApiAgricultura has a mission to protect and preserve bees (Apis mellifera) while teaching children and youth about their importance. The organization’s founders, Carlos Cortes and Liz Paniagua, believe that protecting bees is to protect life itself.

“For me, bees are a resource for life,” said Paniagua.

“They are the greatest pollinators in the ecosystem.

They have the responsibility of global pollination on their shoulders. Pollination produces seeds, and this means bees play a key role in the food chain. Their contribution to biodiversity is beneficial to all living things.”

Api-Agricultura

Fundación Keto

The members of Fundación Keto are passionate about science and coastal marine ecosystems.

The monitoring of humpback whales (Megaptera novaeangliae) has been one of the group’s main projects.

Southern hemisphere humpback whales travel from Antarctica to Costa Rica from late July through early November. Northern hemisphere whales head to Central America from Alaska from December to March.

Fundación Keto developed a remarkable program to train tour guides and boat captains in the marine tourism industry. Working in the areas of Ballena Marine Park, Isla del Caño and Corcovado National Park, they are equipped to record and identify the areas with high concentration of humpback whales.

The resulting knowledge about ideal migration paths makes it possible to modify tourist excursion routes to protect the whales’ habitat. The project has succeeded in strengthening the harmonious coexistence between people and marine life.

More information: www.fundacionketo.org

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Insectopia Insect Museum

Insectopia Insect Museum is dedicated to insect research, preservation and education. Based in Puerto Jiménez, Puntarenas province, it seeks to create a new natural heritage of long-term data for future generations in Costa Rica’s south Pacific area.

“Our organization understands that life in our world, including our species, depends on the important ecological role that insects play in the ecosystems,” emphasized Jim Cordoba, founder and director. “Yet, insects are a relatively unknown animal group and only a fraction of tropical insects have been described by science — less than 20 percent.”

Insectopia’s museum collection is the first step in creating an inventory of the region’s biodiversity, he notes. “This is an information bank that allows us to know about the current state of insects. By doing this we will able to retain them for future generations and researchers.”

Insectopiamuseum

Raising Coral Costa Rica

Coral reefs are known as the rainforests of the sea because of their extraordinary beauty and vital ecological role.

Unfortunately, coral reefs have been dramatically reduced around the world.

In response, Raising Coral Costa Rica is a conservation project seeking to restore Costa Rica’s coral reefs. To date, Golfo Dulce on the south Pacific coast has been the focus of its coral reef research and reforestation efforts. The organization has created an underwater nursery, where the major coral reef species have been grown and later transplanted onto nearby reefs.

“So far, our propagation technique is fragmentation,” explained Joanie Kleypas, project leader. “Here you take a small sample from a coral colony and cut it into many small pieces. This process speeds up one the natural ways that corals propagate.”

More information: www.raisingcoral.org

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TRAVEL & ADVENTURE

Aerial photography courtesy of Tamcam Media

Our Little Secret

COOLPLACES

NOSARA

by Rachel Cherry White

Just around every bend in that dusty gravel road is another delight.

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N

osara isn’t the easiest place to get to.

There’s a long, bumpy dirt road to get there. In the rainy season, this road becomes pretty much impassable; you have to take an alternate route, adding a couple of hours to your trip.

And residents want to keep it that way. Because just around every bend in that dusty gravel road is another delight: a mouthwatering restaurant with ocean views, a yoga retreat in a shala with monkeys peering overhead, or the next great wave for surfing.

And part of the magic of this sleepy little spread-out town is that when you’re there, you feel like you’ve discovered a secret … as if you’re part of a special club that only other people who’ve made it to Nosara know about.

Of course, we’re not the first to make this “discovery.” When people say "Nosara", it's a catch-all term for the whole area between Playa Nosara to the north, the small inland town of Nosara, and Playa Guiones to the south. Like much of Guanacaste, the primary rainforest in Nosara was clear cut in the 1940s to make room for cattle. In the early 1970s, three of the six ranches that made up the town of Nosara were bought by an American, with plans for a community and

a golf course on his 3,000 acres. The golf course was never realized, but the “American Project,” as it was dubbed, set in motion a community of expats working hand-in-hand with the Costa Rican locals. Eventually, the would-be golf course land parcel was donated back to Costa Rica. Nowadays, there’s a legal requirement for any business, hotel or restaurant to be set back 250 meters from the beach, leaving beachcombers with a spectacular wild landscape devoid of resorts or high-rises.

Adding all the more protection to Nosara’s natural beauty was the Barriguiones campaign. Costa Verde is a group of surfers who were discouraged by coastal deforestation and decided to do something about it. Joining them today are like-minded school children, local business leaders and citizens of Nosara, working together to plant thousands of trees along the coast to reforest the beach. This will have also have a significant impact on turtle conservation efforts in this nesting area, where sand temperature is a critical determinant of hatchling gender. The proper ratio of shade to sun is vital in the delicate balance of coastal ecosystems.

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COSTA RICA DINNER ADVENTURE Short Estuary Trip to Dinner at The Great Waltini’s in Bula Bula Hotel

View crocodiles, birds, monkeys and more Tamarindo to Palm Beach Estates via boat Enjoy a delightful dinner Return via boat to Tamarindo SEE DINING GUIDE AD PAGE 83

Taxi is complimentary with dinner reservations Three Pick up times at Tamarindo Estuary: 5, 5:30, and 6pm

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Photos: Laura Clemente

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TRAVEL & ADVENTURE

Photo: Laura Clemente

Photo: Laura Clemente

Photo: Enric Coromina

Photo: Enric Coromina

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Photo: Laura Clemente

Speaking of the beach, Nosara is the quintessential surf town. With some of the most consistent waves for both beginners and experts, it’s easy to see why surfers flock to this sleepy little hamlet. For the novices, there are instructors eager to share their passion. Many have been here since before there was a road, when they would ride a horse or take an oxcart into Nicoya to pick up food and supplies. Surf schools abound, and if you don’t bring your own board, there are plenty to rent. Surf culture is also big here; go to any watering hole after sunset to listen to stories of Olive Ridley sea turtles in the lineup, or the barrel that seemed to go on all day.

As a wellness destination, you’d be hardpressed to find a healthier spot than Nosara.

Located in Nicoya’s famed “blue-zone,” where it’s not unusual for locals to live past age 100, the town has a juice bar on every corner. And yoga is the perfect complement. There is no shortage of studios or places to practice in Nosara, as well as yoga retreats and yoga resorts. If you’re feeling overextended and pulling your hair out, savasana is your perfect salvation from stress.

If hanging ten on the surfboard isn’t your thing and down dogs are best left to pets, there is still lots to love about Nosara. If you ever get a chance, the sea turtle arribadas at nearby Ostional are not to be missed. Being only about a 25-minute drive from Ostional, Nosara makes a great home base for turtle watchers. You’ll find plenty of hotels and restaurants, along with fabulous fishing, kayaking tours of the estuary, fun shopping, and boating.

But remember: Shhhh. It’s a secret … let’s keep it between us.

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HM HOWLER MAGAZINE | 21

TRAVEL & ADVENTURE

Yellow-eared toucanet

Geoffroys spider monkey

Protecting One Species at a Time COOL PLACES

Rainforest Adventures Provides Perfect Habitats

by Howler Staff

Educational tours encourage visitors to become sustainable travelers.

T

he theme of Earth Day 2019 is “Protect our Species.” With over 500,000 wildlife species in Costa Rica, it is vital to keep the biodiversity alive and thriving in this Central American isthmus. Thanks to the preservation efforts of Rainforest Adventures since its opening, some in partnership with scientists around the world, biodiversity protection is an ongoing daily practice at the company’s two private reserves.

Educational tours encourage visitors to become sustainable travelers and take these practices and observations beyond Costa Rica’s borders.

Wildlife research and protection initiatives at Rainforest Adventures’ park sites encompass many discoveries of rare species or allow the study of species never studied in their natural habitat. From a diverse variety of birds and mammals to reptiles and amphibians, these animals are protected and cared for with love at Rainforest Adventures.

Caribbean Coast - Braulio Carrillo Bairds tapir (Tapirus bardii) For 12 years, Central America’s largest land mammal has been observed and protected at this Rainforest Adventures location. The first spotting was a female, in 2007, and since then naturalist and scientists have noted at least six babies (three males and three females) born and raised in their natural habitat. The tapir is the namesake of Tapirus Lodge and visitors regularly see tapirs in the main area of the park.

Coronated tree frog (Triprion Spinosus) This rarely seen amphibian has become a popular favorite at Rainforest Adventures through the efforts of Stanley Salazar. For the last three years, Salazar, who is passionate about amphibians and reptiles, has studied and improved reproductive conditions for the coronated tree frog at the private reserve. The results have amazed and delighted participants to see this rare amphibian on the night tours offered onsite.

Article continues on next page.

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TRAVEL & ADVENTURE

Scarlet macaw

Green thorntail hummingbird

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Yellow-eared toucanet (Selenidera spectabilis) Park guide Reimer Palma’s observation of a yellow-eared toucanet nest during a birding tour proved to be a scientific breakthrough. This inadvertent discovery in 2017 enabled Alan Rodríguez, a naturalist, and Dr. Luis Sandoval, an ornithologist, to undertake unprecedented observations of two yellow-eared toucanets nests. Never before have researchers been able to identify the nesting and parenting behaviors, as well as chick development, of this beautiful bird.

Green thorntail hummingbird (Discosura conversii) The discovery of a green thorntail hummingbird nest by park guide Daniel Torres in 2001 led to more groundbreaking research at Rainforest Adventures.

Description and scientific notes were done by ornithologist Julio Sanchez.

Again, these observations of nesting, parenting and chick development for the brightly colored fowl were the first of their kind.

Pacific Coast - Jacó Scarlet macaw (Ara macao) This bright red avian is a fan favorite at Rainforest Adventures’ Jacó site. The company, along with Costa Rican and international environmental authorities, has actively protected nest areas within the park and neighboring properties.

Geoffroys spider monkey (Ateles geoffroyi) Listed as “endangered” on the International Union for Conservation of Nature’s Red List of Threatened Species, the Geoffroys spider monkey is another crowd pleaser at Rainforest Adventures’ Pacific park.

Habitat protection efforts have provided a unique opportunity to observe the troop’s growth through the years.

To see for yourself these and other rare and spectacular creatures, visit Rainforest Adventures.

Support and be part of the company’s efforts to protect our species.

Photos courtesy of Rainforest Adventures

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Bairds tapir

Coronated tree frog

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HM HOWLER MAGAZINE | 25

TRAVEL & ADVENTURE

NATIONAL PARK

Where the Blue River Begins

Tenorio Volcano National Park O

by Tom Schultz

You might think the river is dyed blue, when in fact there is nothing artificial about the colorization.

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ne of Costa Rica’s most amazing attractions is the Rio Celeste, located in the northern region. “Celeste” means heavenly or sky blue, so the name translates literally to “Blue River.” To see Rio Celeste at its most beautiful, from the place where it starts, take a trip to Tenorio Volcano National Park.

This river’s naturally amazing blue color is enhanced by a uniquely dazzling effect of solar reflection on volcanic particles in the water (see Paint it blue sidebar on page 28). In fact, it’s one of several key seasonal factors to keep in mind when planning your park visit. The spectacular blue appearance of Rio Celeste is diminished by the absence of sun and presence of rain. When conditions are rainy and muddy, the water color is a lot less blue due to much lower concentrations of volcanic material.

This is one obvious reason why Tenorio is so popular during dry season, when the weather is relatively stable and predictable. It can actually

become so busy then, or on weekends, that visitors are turned away. The maximum limit for crowd control is 1,200 people a day, and no more than 400 at one time. Likewise, there’s a chance of the park being closed in inclement weather when the trails are notoriously muddy and slippery. For those who do visit during rainy season, suitable footwear is a must (boots are available to rent if needed) and trekking poles can come in handy.

What to see in the park

With Rio Celeste and waterfall being the main park attraction, this is your first destination. The walking trail is flat until you reach the stairs — 150 meters down! — to the falls viewing area. (An alternate falls viewing area, accessed from a separate trail and park entrance from Guatuso, was closed in 2014 due to maintenance difficulties.)

This walk is suitable for most children but might be difficult for toddlers or people with issues walking long distances or steep inclines.

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After being treated to this spectacular falls sight, you climb back up the stairs and proceed along the trail. More park wonders await on your walk beyond this point — a little over 1 kilometer each way.

The first stop is the Mirador, with a gorgeous view of Tenorio Volcano, especially on a clear day.

Continue following the trail to Blue Lagoon (Laguna Azul), a natural lagoon from the Rio Celeste that lives up to its name. It’s the perfect place to stop and rest or enjoy a snack. The next stop is the Borbollones (gurgling, bubbling and spurting are descriptive English adjectives).

This site where boiling water bubbles up and into the river was once a natural spa attraction for visitors wanting to bathe. Some unfortunate “parboiling” incidents resulted in the prohibition of all bathing

in the river within park boundaries. The Borbollones emits a strong sulphur smell that is more than noticeable; you will want to enjoy it quickly before heading off to the final and most interesting part of the hike.

Just a bit further on, while crossing a small bridge, you come upon Los Tenideros and you’ll see the unmistakably blue river. This is where the stream comes in contact with a special section of earth and suddenly the water turns blue, caused by the silica particles being expelled and suspended in the water.

If the Rio Celeste waterfalls and stream waters are not fascinating enough during your walk through the park, look up and around in all directions. The forest is beautiful! If you are lucky, many birds can be spotted and possibly some mammals too.

Article continues on next page.

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HM HOWLER MAGAZINE | 27

Getting there

Tenorio Volcano National Park is located near Bijagua in Upala.

From La Fortuna The most common route is through Guatuso and Upala. This drive takes around 1.5 – 2 hours.

From Liberia Turn south onto the InterAmericana highway and drive about 50 kilometers before turning left onto Route 6 until Bijagua. This drive takes about 1.5 to 2 hours.

More info

Photo: Tom Schultz

Entrance fees are the same as for other national parks: $15 for foreigners and 1,500 colones for residents and citizens. Parking requires payment for a dashboard sticker. Slather on the sunscreen and bug spray is only needed at dusk.

Hours: The park is open from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., but no entries are allowed after 2 p.m.

There are restaurants outside the park, but nothing inside, so bring water and anything you want to snack on with you.

Paint it blue

B

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y all appearances, you might think the Rio Celeste is dyed blue, as implied by the name of the exact spot where the transformation happens: Los Tenideros means “the dyers.” In fact, there is nothing artificial about the water colorization ingredients or process. It’s an optical effect called “mie scattering.”

Without elaborating on the physics explanation, it is basically the reflection of color when a particle is close to the same size as a wavelength of light. A familiar example is the bright red color of clouds at sunset in some circumstances related to water particle size.

In the case of Rio Celeste’s blue tint, this remarkable phenomenon applies to the silica molecules that are leached into the water as a result of surrounding volcanic activity.

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HM HOWLER MAGAZINE | 29

TRAVEL & ADVENTURE

Turkey vulture

Lesser yellow-headed vulture

King vulture

COSTA RICAN VULTURES CREATURE FEATURE

Hey … Somebody Has toTake Out the Garbage!

by Tom Schultz

Genetically, vultures in Costa Rica are actually related to the hawk and eagle bird families.

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D

irty, gross, awful … a few words commonly associated with vultures, but in reality anything but the truth. Vultures are an essential part of the ecosystem. They provide a vital service by cleaning up what would otherwise become a country covered with disease-ridden remains.

Costa Rican vultures are referred to as “New World,” in that they have no genetic connection to their “Old World” counterparts in Africa, Asia or Europe. This is an example of what scientists call convergent evolution: organisms that are not closely related independently acquire similar traits through evolution. This results from having to adapt to similar environments or ecological niches. Genetically, vultures in Costa Rica are actually related to the hawk and eagle bird families.

Of the seven New World species found in the Americas - five vultures and two condors — Costa Rica is fortunate to have four of the vulture types.

The most common vulture here is the black vulture: large, bulky, and all dark colored.

Holding their wings at a dihedral angle, looking like a big “V,” makes them easily distinguished from other raptors. Social in nature, black vultures soar in a huge spiral group formation called a kettle, resembling a pot roiling, boiling

water in a pot. They share in common with other Old World vultures the scent-based hunting method. Even while soaring thousands of feet in the air, they can still detect odors with their specialized nostrils.

Black vultures are found in all warmer parts of the Americas. They do not extend to the northern parts of the United States and Canada, nor to the south to Patagonia, but everywhere in between they call home.

Two other Costa Rican vultures are closely related species in the same genus: turkey vulture and lesser yellow-headed vulture.

They have something very special in common: hunting not by smell, but by their keen eyesight.

They tend to be more solitary by nature than the black vulture, hunting alone or in pairs. (A romantic side note — vultures mate for life.)

The turkey vulture, also known as turkey buzzard in parts of North America, is both resident and migratory here. Millions migrate from North America in the fall and can often be seen by the thousands flying along Costa Rica’s Caribbean coast in October. They return to North America in the spring, and are even greeted warmly by some. For instance, “Buzzard Day” in March is an annual celebration in Hinckley, Ohio.

Turkey vultures are easily differentiated

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Black vulture

from black vultures by their bright red, featherless heads.

The lesser-yellow headed vulture is similar to the turkey vulture, but slightly smaller and more colorful, with a head feather pattern of red and yellow. It is also a far less common vulture species.

Inhabiting seasonally flooded wetland areas, lesser-yellow headed vultures are most easily spotted in places like Cano Negro or Medio Queso, right after rainy season ends.

Last, but not least, make way for the king vulture, found in tropical areas from Central America to the Argentina border. The king vulture is a striking bird — some would say handsome — with a massive wingspan of over five feet. Its all-white body is offset by the black borders of its wings and a head that is undeniably spectacular … even if only one that only a mother could love.

King vultures usually travel in pairs or family groups, and will ‘hang out’ with black and turkey vultures. They will even hunt with black vultures,

since they also rely on scent for detecting prey.

Costa Rica happens to be one of the easiest places to spot king vultures, so they are high on the must-see list for birders traveling here. Prime locations for sighting the king include the northern vicinities of Sarapiqui and Osa Peninsula in the south.

One fun fact that sets vultures apart: unlike a flock of robins or a murder of crows, vultures have the distinction of being characterized by three different collective nouns.

Earlier, we described a set of soaring vultures as a “kettle”.

Meanwhile, a set of sitting vultures is known as a “venue.”

As for a group of vultures feasting on a carcass — and I am not making this up — it’s called a “wake!” Think of this whenever you attend a funeral from now on.

So the next time you see a venue of vultures in a tree, or a kettle of them soaring overhead, stop to appreciate or even enjoy the sight. Thank them for the important job they do for us.

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HM HOWLER MAGAZINE | 31

HOWLER

SURFING

MOON PHASES

April 5 New Moon

COSTA RICA

April 12 1st Quarter

April 19 Full Moon

April 26

3rd Quarter

SUNRISE Photo: Rafa Sandavol, BFit Retreat

April 1 April 30

Surfing Events

5:36 am 5:22 am

April • • • •

Fridays, Apr 5, 12, 19, 26 - 4pm - Playa Hermosa, Backyard Bar Saturdays, Apr 6, 13, 20, 27 - 4pm - Playa Hermosa, Backyard Bar Mondays, Apr 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 - Santa Teresa, Banana Beach Club Sat-Sun, Apr 27-28 - Santa Teresa, 2019 Kolbi Circuito Nacional de Surf

May

• Fridays, May 3, 10, 17, 24, 31 - 4pm - Playa Hermosa, Backyard Bar • Saturdays, May 4, 11, 18, 24 - 4pm - Playa Hermosa, Backyard Bar • Sat-Sun, May 25-26 - Avellanas, 2019 Kolbi Circuito Nacional de Surf

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SUNSET April 1 April 30

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5:49 pm 5:50 pm

TIDE CHART

April 01 - April 30, 2019

DAY

HIGH TIDES

LOW TIDES

HIGH TIDES

LOW TIDES

HIGH TIDES

1 Mon

12:08am 6.96 '

6:25am 1.56 '

12:43pm 7.15 '

6:52pm 1.77 '

2 Tues

1:00am 7.27 '

7:11am 1.24 '

1:29pm 7.59 '

7:36pm 1.31 '

3 Wed

1:44am 7.63 '

7:51am 0.88 '

2:07pm 8.04 '

8:14pm 0.82 '

4 Thurs

2:24am 7.99 '

8:27am 0.55 '

2:43pm 8.46 '

8:50pm 0.38 '

5 Fri

3:00am 8.28 '

9:01am 0.29 '

3:17pm 8.79 '

9:24pm 0.03 '

6 Sat

3:36am 8.46 '

9:35am 0.13 '

3:51pm 9.01 '

10:00pm -0.19 '

7 Sun

4:12am 8.52 '

10:09am 0.07 '

4:25pm 9.10 '

10:34pm -0.27 '

8 Mon

4:48am 8.45 '

10:45am 0.13 '

5:01pm 9.05 '

11:12pm -0.20 '

9 Tues

5:24am 8.28 '

11:21am 0.29 '

5:37pm 8.87 '

11:50pm -0.00 '

10 Wed

6:04am 8.03 '

12:01pm 0.55 '

6:19pm 8.58 '

11 Thurs

12:34am 0.29 '

6:48am 7.74 '

12:47pm 0.87 '

7:07pm 8.21 '

12 Fri

1:22am 0.63 '

7:42am 7.47 '

1:41pm 1.19 '

8:03pm 7.83 '

13 Sat

2:20am 0.94 '

8:44am 7.30 '

2:45pm 1.42 '

9:11pm 7.58 '

14 Sun

3:26am 1.10 '

9:54am 7.38 '

3:59pm 1.41 '

10:23pm 7.57 '

15 Mon

4:36am 1.01 '

11:06am 7.75 '

5:13pm 1.08 '

11:35pm 7.86 '

16 Tues

5:44am 0.66 '

12:10pm 8.34 '

6:21pm 0.52 '

17 Wed

12:37am 8.33 '

6:44am 0.17 '

1:06pm 9.00 '

7:19pm -0.12 '

18 Thurs

1:33am 8.84 '

7:38am -0.31 '

1:58pm 9.60 '

8:11pm -0.68 '

19 Fri

2:25am 9.25 '

8:28am -0.67 '

2:46pm 10.02 '

8:59pm -1.05 '

20 Sat

3:13am 9.49 '

9:16am -0.83 '

3:32pm 10.20 '

9:45pm -1.19 '

21 Sun

3:59am 9.52 '

10:00am -0.77 '

4:16pm 10.11 '

10:31pm -1.08 '

22 Mon

4:45am 9.32 '

10:44am -0.47 '

5:02pm 9.77 '

11:15pm -0.74 '

23 Tues

5:29am 8.93 '

11:30am 0.02 '

5:46pm 9.23 '

11:59pm -0.24 '

24 Wed

6:17am 8.42 '

12:16pm 0.62 '

6:32pm 8.58 '

25 Thurs

12:45am 0.36 '

7:07am 7.87 '

1:04pm 1.26 '

7:22pm 7.90 '

26 Fri

1:35am 0.96 '

8:01am 7.36 '

1:58pm 1.83 '

8:18pm 7.30 '

27 Sat

2:31am 1.47 '

9:01am 7.01 '

3:00pm 2.23 '

9:20pm 6.89 '

28 Sun

3:33am 1.80 '

10:05am 6.89 '

4:08pm 2.36 '

10:26pm 6.73 '

29 Mon

4:35am 1.91 '

11:05am 7.01 '

5:14pm 2.20 '

11:26pm 6.83 '

30 Tues

5:35am 1.80 '

11:59am 7.31 '

6:10pm 1.84 '

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www.ripjackinn.com HM HOWLER MAGAZINE | 33

SURFING COSTA RICA

by Ellen Zoe Golden

SURF PROFILE

SAM REIDY I

t makes perfect sense that a young man who loves the ocean as much as Sam Reidy does would also have an affinity for the rest of nature. Besides being Costa Rica’s 2017 Groms surfing champion, he is also an ambassador for Community Carbon Trees, a nonprofit organization that helps save the planet by planting trees.

“I am a zero-carbon footprint athlete,” Reidy explained. “What this means is that I plant trees to offset my carbon footprint. Let’s say I go on

‘On my ninth birthday, I was late to my own party because I was surfing with my new board.’

a trip to Mexico; after I come back I will calculate how much carbon was released on that trip. Then I will go plant however many plants that it took to get me there and back from Mexico. I also go around spreading my knowledge about trees and how they play such a big part in our oceans and global warming.”

The surfer, who lives in Dominical, does a lot of traveling. Occasionally, Reidy is off somewhere for free surfing, and just to get some barrels.

Athlete: Samuel Reidy Sport: Surfing Age: 15 About: Relaxed and swift surfer who becomes aggressive and passionate in competition.

Sponsors: GROM Clothing, Plant Fusion Energy Drink, Nightmare Shapes Surfboards, Jungle Mama Naturals Sunscreen

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But, it’s the competitions that earn him the most frequent flyer miles. He competes in Florida, California, Mexico and North Carolina every year.

This year, here at home in Costa Rica, Sam will continue to schedule in as many of the Kolbi Circuito Nacional de Surf dates as possible in between his international events.

“Honestly,” he said, “my goal this year is to surf and train the hardest I can and I know that results will follow.”

While his 2019 agenda is pretty full inside and outside the country, Reidy expects he’ll put in a good amount of time in the powerful waves he loves at his home break of Dominical.

“Many waves don’t have the kind of power that Dominical has,” he noted.

“The wave can be so different in a short amount of time.

It can go from peeling peaks to draining barrels in a matter of a couple of hours. Dominical is such a good all-around wave.

There are other waves that are around Dominical that I surf frequently. If I have a contest in Florida and I

know that the waves will be small and powerless, I will go to a surf spot two minutes away. Or if I have a contest in Mexico where the waves are normally big, I will surf Dominical.”

Reidy has been at home in the ocean since he was four years old. At that time, his dad got him in the water to become familiar with the power of nature. A couple of years later, dad gifted him with a boogie board, which the water-loving child quickly mastered, eventually even standing up and riding in the whitewash.

“On my ninth birthday, I woke up and walked outside into the living room and saw a brand new board with a big bow tied right on the front of it. That morning I was late to my own party because I was surfing with my new board.”

Crediting his parents for being “amazing,” and getting him where he is now in life, Reidy feels supported by them with everything, from his surfing career and school to traveling and more. It’s a good thing too, because this kid has big dreams of dominating the planet he so dearly loves.

Photographer: Tony Jovanovic/ Via de Agua Images

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CR BIZ

CR GOVERNMENT

MINAE: Why? A Good-to-Know Overview

by Carlos Manuel Rodriguez Minister of MINAE

MINAE touches many relatable aspects of pura vida.

F

or some governments in the world, environmental protection remains just a lofty ideology, while others have made it an institutionalized obligation.

In Costa Rica, it’s a human right. This country’s sustainable development vision not only underpins the vast institutional framework that’s evolved over time but also a culture of natural resource conservation benefiting everyone.

Article 50 of the Costa Rican Constitution guarantees the right to a healthy and ecologically balanced environment. In addition, it mandates government transparency, publicness and accountability. It also establishes the right to participate, request and access information of public interest. The 1995 General Environmental Law (Law 7554) affirms that the environment is a common inherent right of all, and that the government and individuals should participate in its conservation and sustainable use. This Law created a new set of national and decentralized environmental agencies, complemented three years later by the Biodiversity Law. For newcomers to Costa Rica, the unfamiliar alphabet soup of bureaucratic entity names and acronyms can seem daunting, especially in two languages. One is worth learning about due to its prominence and relevance to everyday life: MINAE stands for Ministry of Environment and Energy (Ministerio de Ambiente y Energía).

From the national parks you visit to the extra building permit you might need for your new house to the wastewater treatment system on your property, MINAE

touches many relatable aspects of pura vida. It’s the governing authority on all environmental matters in Costa Rica, while three other ministries have responsibilities in other related areas: Ministry of Health (MINSA), Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock (MAG) and Ministry of Transportation and Public Works (MOPT).

The mission of MINAE is to contribute to quality of life improvements for people living in Costa Rica. It promotes management, conservation and sustainable development of the country’s elements, goods, services and oversees the country’s environmental and natural resources.

Through legal provisions or international agreements, MINAE ensures that national development activities are respectful to both nature and citizen rights to create a healthy and ecologically balanced environment.

MINAE’s new administration has committed to focus urgent attention on the following environmental priorities over the next four years: safeguarding and security of protected areas, management of solid wastes, incrementing pollution of seas and rivers, modification of consumer plastic habits, use of chemicals in agriculture, and improved urban mobility to meet decarbonization goals. By focusing on these priorities, MINAE is working to protect Costa Rica’s natural resources, animals and residents.

MINAE is partnering with Howler Magazine over the next few issues to provide overviews of how MINAE’s administration and regulations impact the daily lives of people living in Costa Rica.

Photos courtesy of MINAE

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Carlos Manuel Rodriguez, Minister of MINAE

Important Interconnected Entities

M

INAE is a complex organization of agencies directly affiliated with the Office of the Minister, the superior body of the ministry’s technical, operational and administrative matters. The office also exercises political governorship of four vice-ministries: Natural Resources, Environmental Management, Energy, and Water and Seas.

Each assists the minister in implementing policies in its specialty area and fulfills the ministerial and national development plans.

The most important environmental agencies coordinated by MINAE are: • National Conservation Areas System (SINAC) • National Forestry Financing Fund (FONAFIFO) • National Biodiversity Management Commission (CONAGEBIO) • Administrative Environmental Tribunal (TAA) • National Meteorological Institute (IMN) • Directorate of Climate Change (DCC) • National Geo-Environmental Information Center (CENIGA) • Environmental Comptroller • Energy Directorate • National Environmental Technical Secretariat (SETENA) • Directorate of Geology and Mines (DGM) • General Directorate of Environmental Quality Management (DIGECA) • Water Directorate (DA)

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HM HOWLER MAGAZINE | 37

CR Biz

CR BIZ FEATURE

Sustainable Life at Reserva Conchal

by Nicole Rangel

38

C

osta Rica has been in the news lately with experience like no other in Costa Rica. various initiatives towards becoming carbon Economically, Reserva Conchal works towards neutral by the year 2021. It is an attractive making sure every dollar is used fruitfully. This could incentive for many people to consider moving to this mean reinvesting over $1 million to upgrade the golf little environmentally focused country. The objectives course irrigation system for better water management. are not just to stop production and use of harmful It could also mean using sustainable products and products and chemicals but also to create sustainable taking time to train employees on alternatives to practices supporting our environment and life even single-use plastics throughout the property. Homes more. and buildings on the property are built with precision, If you are attracted to Costa Rica for its future extra costs and care to prevent environmental damage, protection of the earth, there all the while using sustainable is one location that outshines products.

Environmentally, the others when it comes to This eye on detail crosses over to Reserva Conchal sustainable lifestyles and the extent of social connection that development. The residents and Reserva Conchal supports. Residents is on the cutting employees of Reserva Conchal, a are offered a multitude of activities resort nestled in Cabos Velas on edge of sustainable to connect with each other. From the Pacific coast of Guanacaste, monthly social events and weekly practices. are living a sustainable life every exercise classes to the annual PGA day. It’s one that makes them role Golf Tour Academy, the ways that models for protecting our species and paving the way residents feel part of this thriving community are for the future. endless. But it doesn’t stop there; Reserva Conchal also The Triple Bottom Line business model has been promotes a sustainable lifestyle through a variety of instrumental to Reserva Conchal’s leadership in volunteer and community support programs through sustainable development while creating a desirable strategic social investment. place to live and visit for both humans and wildlife.

A prime example is its Dual Education Program, Its parent company, Florida Ice and Farm Company empowering individuals in the community with skills S.A. (FIFCO), adopted this method for developing and knowledge for the food and beverage industry. sustainable practices that ensure economic, social This complementary training and employment and environmental longevity. By integrating these program gives graduates the ability to provide a three elements, Reserva Conchal provides a lifestyle sustainable income for their multi-generational

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families, with skills they never would have acquired otherwise.

Through the Elegi Aydar program, Reserva Conchal give back to the community more than 13,000 volunteer hours a year. Contributions range from planting over 1,000 trees to picking up over three tons of debris in the pueblos surrounding the resort.

Local support initiatives do not stop there. Reserva Conchal also offers community health events and support to the Administration Association of the Aqueducts and the Sewers (ASADA), helping to sustain a healthy Guanacaste community.

Environmentally, Reserva Conchal is on the cutting edge of sustainable practices. The resort plans to build on merely a fraction of the 930 hectares it occupies, preserving most of the land as a natural habitat for the variety of flora and fauna that resides here. In fact, the company has partnered with the National System of Conservation Areas (SINAC), a department of Costa Rica’s environmental ministry (MINAE), to create the Conchal National Mixed Wildlife Refuge. This untouched 39.5 hectares of forest,

mangrove and estuary provide a glimpse of how nature sustains itself after all the deforestation during the mid-1900s.

But Reserva Conchal’s eye on environmental sustainability doesn’t stop at just setting aside some land. It is a routine part of all daily operations as well. The upcoming “No More Single Use Plastic” program will aim to eliminate the use of plastics on a one-time basis while educating guests and residents about this harmful practice. Reserva Conchal’s waste management program recycles over 80 percent of the materials and composts over seven tons of material a week. The Westin Hotel has been distinguished as Carbon Positive by the Costa Rican Institute of Technical Policies (INTECO) and MINAE. By implementing sustainable practices at such a detailed level in financial, social and environmental realms, Reserva Conchal demonstrates that an organization this large can have its heart in the right place. This creates a community of residents and employees who see the value of caring for each other and the environment.

Photos courtesy of Reserva Conchal

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HM HOWLER MAGAZINE | 39

CR BIZ

DOING BUSINESS RIGHT

Reserva Conchal Golf Club: Nature's Sweet Spot

by Nicole Rangel

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The Audubon Internationalcertified course is every golfer’s dream when it comes to a challenging game surrounded by nature.

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GA legend Tom Watson summed it up best: “No other game combines the wonder of nature with the discipline of sport in such carefully planned ways. A great golf course both frees and challenges a golfer's mind.”

Whenever that much precision and protection is put into a sport, you know there will be a sweet spot. In Costa Rica, this sweet spot is Reserva Conchal Golf Club. Designed by Robert Trent Jones II, the Audubon International-certified course is every golfer’s dream when it comes to a challenging game surrounded by nature.

Part of the reason this course is so special is the attention to details important for human and non-human visitors alike. With over 60 sand traps, significant elevation changes and magnificent views of mangroves, native forests and sweeping ocean overlooks, this course will delight any player’s heart and skill level. The neighbors are quite delightful too: birds, monkeys, deer and coatis are just a few of the animals that call the lands surrounding the 7,021-square-yard golf course their home. And this is due to the continuous protection efforts and oversight of the Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary Program for Golf.

In fact, Reserva Conchal was the first Audubon-certified golf course in Costa Rica.

Reserva Conchal not only measures up but exceeds the minimum standards set for each of the requirements. Over the past year, Reserva Conchal invested over $1 million to install a state-of-the-art irrigation system with AI data to prevent leaking and overwatering. This system is tied into the resort property’s on-site treatment

plant, where wastewater from the two hotels is recycled to water the greens and garden areas.

Reserva Conchal has also reforested over 300 native trees. A large portion of land has been dedicated to the slow-growing, endangered holywood tree (Guaiacum sanctum), gradually making a comeback after nearly a half-century of sweeping deforestation in Costa Rica.

Golf cart tours of the greens are offered daily at 3 p.m. for Reserva Conchal residents and hotel guests, who have a very good chance of seeing monkeys, iguanas and feisty coatis, as well as a wide variety of birds. The newest species to be found here are the double-striped thick-knee and southern lapwing. It’s also the ideal opportunity for visitors to learn about eco-friendly practices they can adopt at home. The same kind of learning experience goes in both directions for students from nearby Earth University.

Through an extended education partnership with Reserva Conchal, they can apply their classroom knowledge in a practical real-world environment with social responsibility.

The golf course has hosted two PGA tours and offers an annual week-long PGA Tour academy with PGA pros. Other events have included weekly children’s workshops and golf tournaments for local charities and fundraisers.

Beyond hitting balls at Reserva Conchal, and regardless of golf score, the sublime connection with nature alone is reason enough for anyone to enjoy an incomparable experience on these greens. Even on a subpar day, it’s gratifying to play on a course that is giving so much back to the environment and the community of Guanacaste.

Photos courtesy of Reserva Conchal

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Audubon Certification

T

he prestigious Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary Program for Golf certification requires monitoring of six key performance indicators to “minimize potentially harmful impacts of golf course operations.” Through continuous monitoring of the following areas, courses are supporting sustainable lands, building community and providing a beautiful landscape to play golf.

• • • • • •

Environmental planning Wildlife and habitat management Chemical usage reduction and safety Water conservation Water quality management Outreach and education

When building and updating these certified golf courses, wildlife corridors are preserved and native plants are used.

Minimizing disruption of the natural environment is always a high priority to create a sustainable habitat for the natural birds, flora and fauna surrounding the course.

Inspiring a better way of living www.reservaconchal.com #s earchf indh owl

HM HOWLER MAGAZINE | 41

CR BIZ

REAL ESTATE SPOTLIGHT

What Area of Costa Rica is Right for ME?

An Overview

by Steve Love and Howler Staff

The Most Popular Areas for Expats: 1. GAM (Greater Metropolitan Area) 2. North Pacific Guanacaste 3. Nicoya Peninsula 4. Central Pacific 5. Osa Peninsula 6. Limón / Caribbean Coast

7. Arenal

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ased on Google data, Costa Rica ranks in the top five locations searched online by people from Canada, the United States and France looking to buy a second home. From the vibes of a bustling metropolitan city or laid-back neighboring suburb to the idyllic stretches of beach with tourism infrastructure or remote offthe-beaten path hideaways, there is something for everyone. The variety of property types exists almost everywhere too: from apartments, townhomes and single-family detached houses to building lots and farmland, you’ll find plenty available for purchase or rent, to live in or to

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derive investment income.

This month’s Howler CR Biz section features three related articles on real estate topics. Our goal is to educate readers about the wide variety of geographic locations and their characteristics, as well as property options.

We offer guidance on the best areas from an investment standpoint and an overview of the ins and outs of different property ownership and rental income options. We hope this information makes it easier to narrow down the complicated search process and embrace the pura vida lifestyle.

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GAM

I

f tourists find it challenging to stay long enough for a bucket list full of experiences during a single visit, the choices for anyone planting roots and settling down here are virtually endless.

It’s possible for people of all backgrounds and ages — singles, couples, families and investors — to satisfy almost any preference in climate and lifestyle amenities when moving to or buying in Costa Rica.

Of course, visiting different geographic areas and collecting as much demographic and lifestyle information as you can is the only way to assess what best suits you. The only thing more important than doing this homework is knowing your own mind, desires and circumstances, including your wish list and limitations, in an honest and introspective way. We’ve divided the country into seven basic areas (see the map opposite page) to help you with this process. Please keep in mind this is a high-level general overview of the main spots of the country that most foreigners are moving to.

two away, depending on traffic conditions and/or holiday popularity. Notably, the climate here is much cooler than in Costa Rica’s coastal areas.

Options for shopping and access to health care professionals and facilities are plentiful in the GAM, particularly in San José and communities on the outskirts. In addition, dining and entertainment options abound, along with cultural attractions that include a varied range of museums, art galleries, theaters and concert venues. Availability in the GAM of high-quality education at all grade levels, in public and private schools, is excellent.

The Central Valley harbors Costa Rica’s major cities of San José, Escazu, Santa Ana, Heredia and Alajuela. More than three million people live in the

North Pacific Guanacaste

North Pacific Guanacaste The North Pacific region of Guanacaste, also known as the Gold Coast, encompasses the popular destinations of Playas del Coco in the north and Tamarindo in the south, extending in each respective direction to Golfo Papagayo and Marbella Beach.

Most Guanacaste locations are within a 90-minute drive from the Daniel Oduber Quirós International Airport in Liberia. The airport is a hub for direct and connecting flights to/from hundreds of destinations throughout the Americas and overseas.

Guanacaste is known for its dry tropical forest and a rainy season that is by far the driest in the country. For the other six months of the year, “dry season” is characterized literally by the absence of rain 100 percent of the time. This climate lends itself to virtually all kinds of outdoor activities, be it in the coastal waters or inland adventures.

Not surprisingly, a growing number of expats from all over the world have chosen to call Costa Rica’s Guanacaste area home. Developers have created many beautiful communities with profitable results in marketing to adventurous, outdoor-loving expats seeking to relocate.

Families with children in Guanacaste have access to a wide selection of highquality schools with internationally recognized accreditations. In fact, outside the GAM, this region offers the highest number of private and public school options in the country. The cultural exposure children gain from multilingual programs, in addition to academic excellence, is an oft-cited advantage of living in this area.

With large marinas being proven economic drivers for the areas

The choices for anyone planting roots and settling down here are virtually endless.

GAM (Great Metropolitan Area) This expansive area includes the capital city of San José and covers varying locations throughout the Central Valley and Upper Central Valley. It offers spectacular mountain landscapes — volcanoes to the northeast and central cordillera to the southwest — and sweeping views of the urban metropolis.

Short drives can bring you as close to nature in a getaway from city life as your heart desires. Beaches and an endless selection of rainforest adventures are in close proximity — many just an hour or

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Central Valley, accounting for at least 50 percent of the country’s total population.

The location of Juan Santamaría International Airport in Alajuela is a convenience factor.

Along the western corridor of highway approaching San José are a cluster of Upper Central Valley towns that include Grecia, Atenas, San Ramón, Palmares and Sarche. These communities offer excellent access to goods, services and infrastructure, and a spring-like climate year-round. You’ll find everything from industrial activity and agriculture to tourism and manufacturing. Sarche is known for its unique furniture and the cultural heritage of ornately painted oxcarts. Places like Palmares are becoming more popular because of the easy living and cool weather, as well as stunning volcano views.

HM HOWLER MAGAZINE | 43

surrounding their location, the imminent completion of a worldclass marina in Playa Flamingo will put Costa Rica’s Gold Coast solidly on the map. That includes the nearby beach communities of Brasilito and Potrero.

Nicoya Peninsula Nicoya Penisula

Central Pacific

Communities in the Nicoya Peninsula (central and south Pacific coast) are relatively remote from Costa Rica’s main airports — two or more hours away — but have nonetheless attracted a core group of expats seeking to live and invest in a less populated beach area.

Nicoya is renowned for being one of the world’s so-called ‘Blue Zones” where healthy lifestyles enable many people to live past the age of 100 years. For an expat choosing this place to settle, maybe it will add a few years onto your life!

Access to schools, as well as shopping, dining, entertainment and other urban amenities, is somewhat more limited than in the GAM and Guanacaste areas. To get a better sense of the Nicoya region’s off-thebeaten-path appeal, see the article “Nosara: Our Little Secret,” on page 18.

Central Pacific

Osa Peninsula

Limón and Caribbean Coast

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Costa Rica’s Central Pacific region offers relatively close access from the Central Valley to beaches and other natural attractions.

This proximity has contributed to its popularity as a place where many expats have chosen to live happily and invest wisely. There's something for everyone here: nature at its most captivating, along with surfing, fishing, dining and a vibrant nightlife all in one place.

In many respects totally different from Guanacaste, the Central Pacific coast was among the first to be developed in Costa Rica back in the 1980s and early 1990s. In addition to the growing number of expats deciding to live and invest along the Central Pacific stretch of coastline over the last 20 years, many local city-dwelling Costa Ricans have built or purchased

weekend homes in places like Punta Leona, Los Sueños and other gated communities in the area. An economic boost has come from the Los Suenos Marina, a first-class facility that has attracted a large number of foreign owned sport fishing boats to call this port home.

Jacó is the country’s largest and busiest beach town. Having grown significantly over the years, it offers a wide variety of restaurants, shopping, entertainment, accommodations and tourist attractions.

Manuel Antonio and Quepos are communities that rival Jacó in popularity, but cater to a somewhat different clientele. Generally speaking, lodging is a little more expensive. Manuel Antonio National Park, globally famous for its combined beachside and rainforest allure, is a major tourism draw. The very well-appointed Quepos Marina has recently increased activity in the area.

Dominical, Uvita and Ojochal are all very small towns with relatively few amenities. An expat lifestyle here involves more planning ahead.

Nonetheless, there is no shortage of expats calling this area home and loving their lifestyle there.

By contrast, San Isidro de General is a thriving large town nestled in a mountain valley, just a half-hour drive inland from Dominical. Paved road access through the surrounding hills makes the trip as scenic as it is convenient.

Osa Peninsula The Osa Peninsula is famous for being one of the most biodiverse concentrations of land areas on the planet. Aside from the area’s remoteness, the heavy rains that generally persist four months of the year are a deterrent to many, but by no means all, foreigners.

In fact, the Osa has a longestablished population of expats and Ticos sharing environmentally enthusiastic common ground.

People deciding to settle or invest in real estate here do so exactly because of the Osa’s remoteness. It’s considered an ideal hideout — as

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See What Else Howler Says About This Subject

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Outside the scope of this overview, we must point out that many foreigners are opting to settle or otherwise own real estate in lesser-known micro-areas such as the mountainous Guapilies region.

Some likely future hot-spots are emerging in the ripples of newfound popularity while others may be destined to remain well-kept secrets.

When it comes to the comforts and conveniences of everyday life, as well as interesting and charming attributes that make Costa Rica so attractive, the choices are limited only by your imagination. It all depends what pura vida looks like in your own mind’s eye. Take a good look all around the country and you are sure to find what you are looking for.

In past issues

Go to howlermag.com and use the search bar on the top right to find any article title below or simply type the article title plus "howler" in Google.

• Limón Revitalized — March 2019 • Moving to Costa Rica: Is It Right for You? — February 2019 • Pick Your Place to Live in Costa Rica — February 2019 • The Unplanned Wonders of Pura Vida — February 2019 • Only Fools Rush In - Financing a Life in Costa Rica — February 2019 • How to Stay Sane as an Entrepreneur in Costa Rica — February 2019 • Climates of Costa Rica — November 2018 • Limon Revitalized — Sept/Oct 2018

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The Arenal region never ceases to amaze when it comes to breathtaking landscapes and thrill-seeking adventures.

Arenal has a tourist-driven economy, especially the La Fortuna area’s abundance of adventure tour companies, restaurants, bars, resorts and shopping spots. The Lake Arenal vicinity has a larger expat population than does the tourist town of La Fortuna. The lake itself gives you a sense of Lake Tahoe, but with palm trees and the towering Arenal Volcano at one end. Lake Arenal is a manmade lake, created not only for water consumption but also as a hydroelectric power resource. Nuevo Arenal in the midsection has a strong expat population, and at the west end is Tilarán, where many appreciate the coolness of a higher elevation, along with magnificent views.

The small towns surrounding Lake Arenal have proven very appealing for expat groups seeking a culture-infused lifestyle as well as nature, and a cooler climate than the beaches offer. The area is also known for being very windy five months of the year, when one end of the lake is a mecca for windsurfers and kite surfers.

• Investing in Costa Rica: What’s the Best Place for Me? - page 40 • Finding Your Own Piece of Paradise page 44

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Limón on the Caribbean coast is an exciting place to be right now with a promising future. Historically important as Costa Rica’s major industrial shipping port, but in a region beset by economic hardship over the years, Limón is poised for a rising tide of commercial growth with wide-reaching ripple effects. No business sector has been untouched by the recent opening of Limón’s new stateof-the-art shipping mega-port facility.

Notwithstanding the infusion of investment dollars this billion dollar project has generated, Costa Rica’s Caribbean coast has never been without its own special charm. While not widely settled by expats, the area has been enjoying increased popularity as a tourist and cruise ship destination.

The Jamaican influence on Costa Rica’s distinctive Caribbean culture is apparent in celebrations of indigenous traditions through music and dance, as well as the use of more spices and coconut milk in local food dishes.

To the north from Limón province through the Caribbean coast lie the inland waterways to Nicaragua with eco-tourism and fishing lodges. To the south, the small tourist towns of Cahuita, Puerto Viejo and Manzanillo lead to the Panama border.

Surfing along the Caribbean coast is good at certain times of the year, and there are excellent conditions for fishing and diving.

Arenal

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Limón and Caribbean Coast

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opposed to a hangout — for those seeking an eco-conscious, off-the-grid lifestyle.

Amenities are relatively few and far between, and education options pretty much limited to public schools or homeschooling.

Osa now boasts a boutique Hilton ecolodge resort, Botánika Osa, near the Golfo Dulce tropical fjord where migrating humpback whales can be seen seasonally.

A new marina is being built at Puerto Jiménez, which is the largest (but still small) town on the peninsula.

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HM HOWLER MAGAZINE | 45

CR BIZ

INVESTMENT CHAT WITH NATIVU

What Makes It a Good Area to Invest?

by Fabricio Riggioni

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s we have reinforced in past Investment Chat articles, the art of investing in real estate has two very important components: 1. The technical/financial research analysis.

2. Your choice of lifestyle if you are considering an “active” investment or something for long-term living.

Choosing real estate in Costa Rica in an area that fits both of these assessments at the highest level completes the first stage of achieving a well-balanced portfolio. The diverse characteristics distinguishing seven “hot zones” in this desirable investment hub is described in the preceding article, starting on page 42. It provides a general overview for each region of population and social idiosyncrasies, geography, climate and economic growth.

Taking into consideration these variables, three specific areas of major interest for investors are highlighted as follows.

GAM (Great Metropolitan Area)

For real estate investors, a blank canvas awaits for painting a winning picture.

This area of Costa Rica is currently experiencing an economic contraction for several reasons, including the rapid rise of interest rates, tax base expansion and increased prices for raw materials in different industries.

Overall, people are being more selective in their spending habits, which leads to economic contraction. The real estate market has changed, notably through increases in long-term rentals outpacing sales transactions in the capital city and surrounding areas. It's

a great time for investors to take advantage of this situation and make solid real estate deals.

As always, cash is king … more so in distressed circumstances. In addition, a healthy debt/ asset ratio will enable you to stay ahead of undesirable risk levels.

Meanwhile, bear in mind some of the unchanging reasons why Costa Rica’s GAM continues offering attractive real investment opportunities: vibrancy and diversity of urban lifestyle amenities, access to highquality health care and education at all levels and variety of property/housing styles and neighborhoods are just a few.

Guanacaste Guanacaste’s Gold Coast region is currently considered the prime location for investing time, energy and money. Everything an investor needs is right here. Geographically, you will find some of the most highly soughtafter and tourist-friendly beaches in Central America. Viewing a sunset in Playa Grande will illustrate what I'm talking about.

Guanacaste is a melting pot of nationalities and ethnic groups, living and working together. Guanacastecos born after 1980 have grown up directly interacting with people from many different countries and cultures. Investment risk declines significantly when this type of racial and cultural diversity exists. The active labor force of Guanacaste is maturing and being trained on-the-spot, which means investors have access to a qualified, socially skilled and educated labor pool.

Guanacaste hasn't figured itself out yet.

• hInvestment Consultant: Fabricio Riggioni Phone: (506) howlermag.com 8301-0663 • Email: fabricio@nativu.com 46NATIVU | #searchfind owl| online

That leaves the door wide open to opportunities, not only for real estate investment but investment overall. Consider the services sector alone, for example, supporting the burgeoning tourism economy.

This region’s potential is still relatively untapped. It is only now undergoing the early years of "true" growth.

Construction of a large new water supply to serve the northern Guanacaste area is a dynamic sign of things to come.

For real estate investors, a blank canvas awaits for painting a winning picture.

If you are that type of person, now is the right time to move forward in the Guanacaste area.

Central Pacific In the last three years, Costa Rica’s Central Pacific area has seen strong growth in residential construction

projects. This is reflected not only in the number of projects but also their target market.

There are solid opportunities for early-stage investors with limited capital, as well as more experienced investors.

We foresee steady growth in this area of the country.

Expats and nationals alike are looking at the Central Pacific again as a safe place to invest.

Needless to say, the real estate possibilities here are unlike almost anywhere else, from laidback beachside locales to tranquil forest settings. Investors can choose from a wide range of large and small property options, including protected rental income opportunities.

For more information about our real estate take on these or other regions of Costa Rica, or any kind of investment advice, please contact us.

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HM HOWLER MAGAZINE | 47

CR BIZ Location: Flamingo - Mar Vista Development Type: Single-family homes and lots in gated community Contact: Mar Vista - see ad page 2

by Johnny Lahoud

PROPERTY OPTIONS

Finding Your Own Piece of Paradise

W

hen you are looking at real estate investment you usually look at your budget, the area and they type of property you want to invest in. In the two related CR Biz articles on Costa Rica real estate considerations, we compared the geographic and lifestyle characteristics of seven different areas and offered tips on some great locations for investment opportunities.

Within most areas of the country, real estate listings can cover the gamut.

You might find $25,000 golf course lots and multi-million-dollar beachfront or mountain top homes in the same region, as well as condominiums and small to large ranches, priced from $100,000 to many millions of dollars. This article outlines the most common property options that are readily available in most areas, with some advice on which property types tend to be sound investments.

Individual decisions about real estate here also require an assessment of needs, wants and limitations. First, be clear about your priorities and what funds you have available, as well as how much time you’re really willing to invest. Only then can you move on to determine the type of property you are

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seeking. Property types vary, but there will always be the common formula of investment risks versus investment rewards.

Is the property you have in mind within a community or is it a standalone detached structure? Each style of home comes with its own pros and cons. Residential communities provide security and a built-in social network to help you readily establish your new life. Expenses associated with common area amenities and property maintenance are shared with other homeowners. Research the development company, as well as the firm responsible for homeowner association (HOA) administration.

When considering an individual stand-alone residential property, security risks must be carefully assessed. Although Costa Rica generally ranks low on an international scale for violent crime, it is still an emerging country where police assistance may not be readily available everywhere.

Below are some of the most typical, widely available property options, with basic information to build on your knowledge. Examples of those currently available in the northern Guanacaste beach area (Gold Coast) are pictured

by Howler Staff

in adjacent photos. You can find them in premier developments and popular locations, listed by realtors supporting our magazine with years — if not decades — of business experience in Costa Rica

Building lots Most building lots range from 300m2 (3,000 ft2) to 2,000m2 (20,000 ft2). In most instances, it’s permissible for structures, including pools, to occupy at least 60 percent, and possibly up to 80 percent, of the land area. A word of caution: be careful of road access and slope design. What seems okay in the dry months may not be okay in the rainy season during powerful storms.

For any undeveloped (“raw”) land lot, the need to fully vet — in fact, tripleverify — what is or is not permissible/ accessible cannot be overemphasized.

Thoroughly investigate zoning and permitting restrictions, as well as water and electricity availability. Some areas have a building permit moratorium based on water supply, so be absolutely certain about water access. Also, from the start, be fully aware of the permitting process itself and timelines involved.

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Location: Tamarindo - Vista Bella Mar Type: Open lot Contact: ABC Real Estate - see ad page 7

Existing (turnkey) homes Buying an existing home can be the quickest way to move in right away or start receiving rental income. However, this can be tricky in Costa Rica. There is no standard municipality inspector ensuring the structural integrity of buildings. Liability rests with the architect or engineer who signed off when the home was built, and legal recourse in that instance is all but impossible if something does go awry.

Many buyers come to regret jumping too quickly into this kind of home purchase. They pay full price for the prime location or style they wanted but are unpleasantly surprised when the house proves substandard and ends up costing a lot more in the end. Again, be clear about road access and slope. If the property is in a community, inform yourself about the HOA fees, rules and management conditions, if any.

Apartment or townhome condominiums These generally offer security and an instant network for building relationships in Costa Rica. But just remember, you can’t pick your neighbors!

Attached condo unit structures/ complexes offer some distinct advantages over a single detached unit. HOA fees will include security, landscaping of common areas and pool maintenance. They offer a great environment to meet and socialize with others. They also offer potential rental income opportunities, often with complete property management services available.

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Location: Flamingo Type: Single-family home Contact: Christie's International Real Estate - see ad page 21

Location: Playa Grande Type: Single-family home Contact: Nativu - see Opportunity of the Month page52

Location: Rancho Villareal Type: Single-family home Contact: ABC Real Estate - see ad page 7

HM HOWLER MAGAZINE | 49

Farms (fincas) These are usually for agricultural use and can include all types of crops, from fruits and vegetables to teak and reforestation projects to raising cattle, horses, chickens and other livestock.

Most people who invest in fincas have had a lifetime dream or experience with this type of lifestyle. Only 30 percent coverage of land by building structures is allowed on a finca agricola, which is technically a farm lot of at least 5000m2 (over an acre) in size..

Location: Playa Conchal - Reserva Conchal Type: Condos, lots and single-family homes in exclusive sustainable resort Contact: Reserva Conchal - see ad page 9

Development property This is usually for those with previous development experience and are looking for long-term investments.

Investors can make a good profit, but must have a good team and investment strategy in place to make it happen in this emerging market in Costa Rica.

One way is to partner with a local developer who already has a proven track record.

Existing income property This can be as simple as purchasing any kind of income property, from fully managed rental condos or hotels to restaurants or commercial strip malls. Your due diligence process must be very thorough, with reliance on the right team of professionals to accomplish it.

Investment-wise, this may be the ideal opportunity for some people .

Buy the entire building or multiple units and rent them out (either long- or short-term) while living beside your investment with the income.

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Location: Playa Potrero Type: Beachfront 8-unit condo complex Contact: Krain Realty - see ad page 58

Location: Flamingo/Potrero Type: Development parcel, 100+ ha / 250+ acres Contact: Costa Rica Real Estate - see ad page 53

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Location: Playa Grande - Palm Beach Estates Type: Existing income property - hotel, restaurant and bar Contact: Wally Beck - see ad: flip mag page 21

Check it Out …

Costa Carefully

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Location: Coyolita Type: Farm / Development, 359 ha / 887 acres Contact: Krain Realty - see ad page 58

Location: Veintisiete de Abril / Santa Cruz Type: Farm, 13.33ha / 32.9 acres Contact: ABC Real Estate - see ad page 7 #s earchf indh owl

s is the norm everywhere in the world, the key to purchasing residential property in Costa Rica is to be vigilant and diligent. Costa Rica is one of the most economically and politically stable countries in Latin America.

However, as in most developing nations, there are challenges and barriers to overcome. The need to improve government efficiencies results in many public institutions being streamlined or even closed.

Restructuring of education at all levels has been proposed in a further effort to fulfill national growth objectives.

Most importantly, measures to further strengthen Costa Rica’s democratic backbone are taking high priority.

You need to know this upfront when considering moving or investing in the country.

As the saying goes: ”The only really stupid question is the one you didn’t ask!” So, ask lots of questions. Then do your research. Not only speak to knowledgeable people, but get to know your chosen area firsthand. Ideally, try to live in an area for at least four to six weeks before making a purchase decision, or preferably, for two seasons.

As another saying goes: “If it’s too good to be true, it probably is!” Do not trust anyone who insists otherwise … even your realtor. Seek support from the professionals you have engaged to advise your process. Get second opinions and speak to locals whenever you can.

Costa Rican real estate is currently a buyer’s market. That means there ARE great deals available! But knowing what to be cautious about is the only way to determine if it is truly a fire sale or has a motivated seller.

We are not trying to scare you; we are trying to educate you. Costa Rica is not for everyone. Howler wants your real estate experience here to be positive. The only way we can ensure this is by sharing our own knowledge and experience — the good, the bad and the ugly — for you to make your best decisions.

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CR BIZ

Opportunity of the Month

INVESTMENT CHAT WITH NATIVU

Investment Gem in Junquillal W

by Fabricio Riggioni

ith tremendous year-round rental income potential, Brisa de Mar condos offer one of the best investments in the Junquillal - Playa Negra area.

Location Analysis

Junquillal is located 1.5 hours from Liberia International Airport and only a 30-minute drive from Tamarindo, one of the biggest beach towns of Costa Rica.

Most of the road to Junquillal is paved, with only a few miles of dirt road remaining. This locale has a uniquely Costa Rican rustic allure without being too far off the beaten path.

Property Analysis

The building is comprised of five apartment units, only a block away from the beach. The first floor has two studios, each with a private bathroom and large living and kitchen spaces. The second floor has two mediumsized apartments, each with two bedrooms and two baths. They also have a small terrace, just outside the living room area. Finally, the largest unit is on the top floor. It has two large bedrooms and two large bathrooms with walk-in closets. The master bedroom features a partial ocean view.

Financial Analysis

This property is versatile. You can easily turn the building into a top income-producing asset, renting all units short-term during the high season (November to April) and doing six-month rental contracts during the low season. We believe this is the way to maximize returns with this property. All condos are ready for rentals. We forecast a 10 percent annual CAP rate for the property.

Contact Nativu for detailed breakdown. +506 8301-0663 | fabricio@nativu.com | #searchfindhowl| online

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+506 8301-0663 | fabricio@nativu.com

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ONE OF A KIND

The Single Best 100+ Hectare (250+Acres) Development Parcel On The Entire Gold Coast!

Stunning Ocean, Marina, & Sunset Views With: Legal Water, Entitlements, Roads, Electricity and Site Development

O N LY $ 1 9 P E R S Q U A R E M E T E R !

Exclusively Offered by:

COSTARICAREALESTATE.COM (506) 7261-2988 | INFO@COSTARICAREALESTATE.COM | BROKERS WELCOME

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CR BIZ MINI-MAG

Eco-Friendly Flora Protect Our Fauna

BUILDING COSTA RICA

“Bee” Kind to Vital Insects

by Tatiana Vandruff

I

n keeping with the April Howler’s theme, Earth Day 2019 inspired my choice of building topic for this issue.

Various eco-friendly aspects of building design and construction have been covered in past articles, most recently last month’s overview of home lighting options. The importance of replacing environmentally harmful incandescent light bulbs with energyefficient, long-lasting LED and CFL light bulbs was emphasized. Other past articles have covered green building strategies that incorporate energy-efficient technology in home appliances and electrical installations.

Air conditioners, for example, should consume less energy and not emit toxic gases that deplete the ozone layer.

Among the myriad considerations for building and living greener in Costa Rica, we encourage you to think beyond measures for conserving resources such as electricity and water. By applying some basic planetprotective principles to your home landscape, you can place your little piece of paradise into action. It’s a matter of making more thoughtful planting decisions for your property.

Plant native tree species around your new dwelling — those that create shade so you, as well as other creatures, can enjoy. Spread your good will for a wider environmental reach. Plant trees not only on your own land, but wherever your travels lead. Whenever possible, dry out the seeds shed by your trees at home. Then during the rainy season, scatter

The need to embrace one of our most threatened food chain contributors cannot be underestimated.

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BUILD BETTER. LEED Accredited them as you pass by open areas. No one will object to a wonderful tree that bears shade and possibly fruit.

Our planet needs as many trees planted as possible.

Simply choosing native flower-bearing trees and bushes can make all the difference in creating safe spaces for bees to be able to pollinate and reproduce.

Take it a step further — if you have sufficient land and space — and create your own beehives to produce honey as well as a safe haven for bees.

Talking about bees, the need to embrace one of our most threatened food chain contributors cannot be underestimated. This insect plays a vital pollen delivery role to sustain our food crops, and in turn, human survival, and should never be taken for granted. Yet, at a time when pesticides are depleting bee populations around the world, relatively little awareness of this extremely important issue is being promoted. Costa Rica is no exception. Here, neonoticotinoids (Bayer trade name Imidacloprid) are openly used as a pesticide on fields of cotton,

rice, banana, sugarcane, melon, onions, citrus, oranges, potatoes, cereals, flowers and more. This compound has proven toxic properties that attack insects systemically and can live in the soil for up to nine years. In bees, it causes disorientation and eventually death. This pesticide was recently banned in the EU after scientific studies showed conclusively how damaging the impact is on bee populations.

On a related note — as always — conserve water.

For landscape irrigation, use a drip system rather than a hose to water plants. Elsewhere in your home, never leave a water faucet running under any circumstance. Use plumbing fixtures that consume the minimum amount of water, and choose appliances with the same goal by checking specifications before you purchase. If you live in a coastal area and build a new pool, fill it with water imported from abundant resources without depleting the supply of treated water from a local aquifer.

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Award Winning Architects Sustainable Architecture Interior Architecture Project Management Planning, Permitting, Construction

We’re Proud to Present Another Sustainable Project

Electricity - 95% Solar (PV) Operated OVERSEAS PACIFIC REALTY New Costa Rica Offices Playa Flamingo - Guanacaste (506) 2666-3306 info@grupopacificocr.com www.grupopacificocr.com HM HOWLER MAGAZINE | 55

CR BIZ

Tax Newsflash

LEGAL EASE

Mandatory Shareholders Registry Coming Soon

by Ivan Granados

All legal entities and corporations in the country must report and disclose details to the Central Bank of Costa Rica.

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osta Rica’s new legal requirement for mandatory disclosure of corporate shareholder information has been postponed until September 2019. The Tax Office will be issuing a revised schedule of submission deadlines for the corporations. All legal entities and corporations in the country must report and disclose details to the Central Bank of Costa Rica about their shareholders and “beneficial owners” who have substantive participation — 15 percent or more of the total share capital.

This reporting obligation must be fulfilled annually, or whenever the 15 percent shareholder amount is met or exceeded. The same requirement applies to trusts, with the exception of public trusts, third-party asset managers and nonprofit organizations.

However, there is no obligation to disclose customer information for financial entities supervised by the General Superintendency of Financial Institutions (SUGEF) or General Superintendence of Securities (SUGEVAL).

Also exempt are publicly traded companies listed on organized stock exchanges, either locally or internationally, as they are subject to specific stock market rules and regulations.

This shareholders disclosure and registry was established as a mandatory mechanism for corporate information disclosure by Executive Decree No. 41040-H dated April 5, 2018. It was among various newly stipulated measures in the Law to Improve the Fight against Tax Fraud. (For details, visit the Attorney General of Costa Rica website at www.pgr.go.cr and view Executive Decree No. 41040-H.

How to register and file shareholder information The process of filing shareholder information is normally carried out by your corporate entity’s legal representative, who must have a valid digital signature (firma digital). The firma digital is issued by the Costa Rica Central Bank, either directly or by an authorized Costa Rican bank.

Information on the cost, opening hours, geographical location and telephone numbers is available in the Services section, Digital Signature, of the Central Bank's website: www.bccr.fi.cr.

However, a firma digital is only available to Costa Rican citizens or legal residents with a valid residency ID (DIMEX).

If your corporation’s legal representative is not eligible to obtain the firma digital, the only option (unless the government provides another mechanism between now and September) is to grant a power of attorney (POA) to a third party you trust. That must be someone who already has or can obtain the firma digital to perform the shareholder registration on behalf of your corporation.

Once the firma digital requirement is met, the legal representative or POA holder can proceed with registration and reporting through this online database: www. centraldirecto.fi.cr Instructions are provided for completing the registration form disclosing the information about the corporation and its shareholders.

As always, seeking proper legal advice is highly advisable to avoid fines and penalties.

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CR BIZ DIRECTORY Real Estate, Property Management

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KRAIN Luxury Real Estate Member of Leading Real Estate Companies of the World Ocotal, Flamingo, Potrero Daily 8-5 2654-4010 info@kraincostarica.com

SPECIAL PLACES COSTA RICA Property Management & Rentals Full management, rental and concierge services Flamingo and Playas del Coco Mon-Sat, 8-5 2654-4493 / 2670-2198 specialplaces@crvr.net

SODA GUAYMY SODA GUAYMY Typical & Rustic Food Breakfast, lunch, dinner and drinks 200m west of Super Compro Daily, 6-9 7028-3264 / 8911-2191 Jimemurillo98@hotmail.com

PLAYA GRANDE

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RE/MAX OCEAN VILLAGE Making Dreams Come True Experienced professional real estate sales team serving the entire Papagayo region Playas del Coco, Ocotal, Playa Hermosa, Playa Panama Daily, 8-5 2670-2175 remax-oceanvillage-cr.com

BROKERS COSTA RICA Property Management & Rentals We specialize in luxury rentals and property management Hermosa del Mar Plaza #7 Mon-Fri, 8-5, Sat, 8-noon 4702-7098 / 2665-8746 info@costarica-brokers.com

RESTAURANT DIRECTORY

HUACAS

RPM REAL ESTATE Sales, Management and Rentals RPM has 60 dedicated staff focused on providing great service to our clients, guests and owners.

Plaza Tamarindo #17 Mon-Sat, 9-5, Sun 9-2 2653-0738, US: 866-631-6958 kevin@rpmvacationrentals.com rpmrealestatecr.com

Playa Tamarindo 7 days a week, 9-5 2653-0073 www.remax-oceansurf-cr.com

PLAYA HERMOSA

HORIZON PACIFIC Property Management and Rentals A leader in quality properties and services: Vacation rentals, management, association administration Tamarindo, Plaza Palmas #17 Mon-Sat, 9-5, Sun 9-2 2653-0390 horizonpacificvacations.com

RE/MAX OCEAN SURF & SUN Nobody Sells More Real Estate Sales of residential condos, homes and single-family home sites

OCOTAL

Tamarindo & Flamingo Mon-Fri, 8-5 2654-4004 / 8407-1898 info@plantacionproperties.com

Flamingo, Potrero, Tamarindo Daily 8-5 2654-4010 info@kraincostarica.com

PLAYAS DEL COCO

CHRISTIE'S International Real Estate Specializing in Costa Rica real estate for over 27 years

KRAIN Luxury Real Estate Member of Leading Real Estate Companies of the World

REAL ESTATE & PROPERTY MANAGEMENT

REAL ESTATE & PROPERTY MANAGEMENT

ABC REAL ESTATE Fine Selections by the Beach We offer personalized service and a full range of real estate services Plaza Tamarindo Mon-Fri, 9-5, Sat, 9-1 2653-0404 tamarindo@abccostarica.com

RIP JACK INN Surfing, Yoga and Tree Top Dining 75m off the beach Eat, Sleep, Stretch, Surf Playa Grande Daily, 8am-9:30pm, Sunday Brunch, Happy Hour 4-6 2653-1636 ripjackinn.com

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COMMUNITY & SERVICES DIRECTORY

GUANACASTE DENTAL Comprehensive Dental Care Advanced family, implant and cosmetic dental services Tamarindo - Garden Plaza Mon-Fri, 9-7, Sat, by appointment 2215-5715, US (866) 978-8305 info@guanacastedental.com guanacastedental.com

INSURANCE

TAMARINDO DENTIST First Dentist in Tamarindo Implants • Orthodontist • Endodontist • Cosmetic Dentistry Tamarindo 24/7 for emergencies 2653-2020 smile@tamarindodentist.com

GRAPHIC DESIGN

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DENTAL SERVICES

BUILDING SUPPLIES

M&G DE HUACAS Marble, Granite and Quartz Custom countertop, highest quality and materials, free inspection and quote 50m east, 150m north, 75m west Huacas Community Center M-F, 7:30-5, Sat, 7:30-2 8840-3815 litomtz74@gmail.com

DENTAL SERVICES

BOOKSTORE

THE BOOKSTORE OF THE WAVES New and Used Bookstore Stamps, mail delivery, free WiFi and so much more Tamarindo 2653-2670 Alei@bookstoreofthewaves.net TheBookStoreoftheWaves

PACIFIC SMILE DENTAL CARE Kids & Adults - English Speaking Highly experienced staff— orthodontics, implants, endodontics, gums Near Auto Mercado, Tamarindo Mon-Fri 9-6, Sat by appt.

2653-4354 info@pacificsmilecr.com

GRAPHIC DESIGN

Tamarindo and Flamingo Mon-Fri, 9-1, 2-5 2654-4367 / 2653-2155 info@gmattorneyscr.com

DENTALSERVICES SERVICES DENTAL

ATTORNEY

GM ATTORNEYS Legal Services Full service in all areas of law

CEPIA Nonprofit Organization We promote culture, health, sports and education for children Huacas Mon-Sat 2653-8365 cepiacostarica@gmail.com

EVENT PLANNING

ARCHITECT ABARCA Freddy Alvarez Abarca Blueprints, construction plans, technical direction, 3D modeling, and construction Limón City 8847-6649, 2758-1048 estudio@sisarquitectura.com sisarquitectura.com

COMMUNITY

ARCHITECT

ARCHITECT ABARCA

Mar Holístico

MAR HOLÍSTICO COSTA RICA Wellness Tours & Event Planning Wendy Abarca 8390-5375 marholisticocr@gmail.com marholisticocr.com

CARACOLA GRÁFICA Eduardo Gamboa Art. Graphic Design and Music Villarreal, Guanacaste 8330-1687 eduardogamboa.djflix@gmail @caracolagrafica

Graffiti supplies, Professional services of textile screen printing and project management of urban art Barrio Escalante, San José 8647-0678 elhidrantecr@gmail.com @elhidrante, @ElHidrante

ALL INSURANCE CR - TAMARINDO Health, Auto, Homeowners and More Offering the best coverage with customer service a priority Across from Auto Mercado Mon-Sat, 8-5 2653-4300 / 973-536-1191 (24/7) info@allinsurancecr.com

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COMMUNITY & SERVICES DIRECTORY

CARLOS PALACIOS Surf Photography Capturing Pura Vida Based in Playa Santa Teresa 8338-3057 insecto@gmail.com www.insectoart.com Carlos Palacios Photography @insecto

GALLO PINTO TV Esteban Delgado Surf, aerial and water photography and videos.

Playa Grande, Guanacaste - 24/7 8622-4036 & 2282-6429 estebandg7@gmail.com @estebandelgadophoto @dg7photo

SOUND & BREATH

PHOTOGRAPHY SURF REPORT Surf photography sessions and daily surf report at Guiones, Nosara.

Playa Guiones, Nosara 8465-2678 psurfreport@gmail.com photographysurfreport.com @photographysurfreport @photography_surf_report

SCHOOL

GUSTAVO JIMENEZ Surf Photography, Wildlife, Portraits, Landscape, Art Photography Playa Avellanas, Guanacaste 8384-6198 bagheera_05@yahoo.com selvaazulphoto.com @Selva_Azul Gustavo Jiménez Selva Azul

PHOTOGRAPHY

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PHOTOGRAPHY

PHOTOGRAPHY

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PHOTOGRAPHY

PHOTOGRAPHY

CARIVE PRODUCTIONS Photo and Cinema High-end professional photography and cinematography based in Tamarindo.

Tamarindo 6105-1069 info@cariveproductions.com www.cariveproductions.com

PHOTOGRAPHY

PHOTOGRAPHY

BESALTY Surf lessons, diving trips and photography.

Santa Teresa, Puntarenas 8am - 4pm 8744-5461 Laura, 8588 3779 Ugo besaltyadventures@gmail.com www.besaltyadventures.com @besalty.adventures

PHOTOGRAPHY

MUSIC PRODUCER

Música a la Leña Ignacio Barrantes Jiménez.

Audiovisual Producer Santa Barba, Heredia and all over Costa Rica 8536-0475 / 8336-5899 musicaalalena@gmail.com @musica_a_la_lena @musicaalaleña

PHOTOGRAPHY

MARKETING SERVICES

NOMAD DESIGN HOUSE Marketing, Design, Implementation Logos & brand development, print material, web development & design, SEO & full-service marketing.

Office - Costa Rica 6282-6635 info@nomaddesignhouse.com nomaddesignhouse.com

CARLOS PALACIOS

SHAKA MEDIA Photography Services Shaka Foods - Tamarindo 8330-5436 Shakamediainfo@gmail.com @shakamedia @ShakaMediaCR

TAMCAM MEDIA Seize the Day. Then relive it Videography, social media management & GoPro rentals.

La Plaza Flamingo Suite #A6 8am - 9pm +506 7197 9127 (what's app) tamcamrentals@gmail.com tamcamrentals.com

EDUCARTE Preschool, Primary, Secondary Private bilingual school 5km south of Huacas Mon-Fri, 8-3:30 2653-6363 info@educartecostarica.com PURA VIDA VIBRATIONS Sound Baths, Breath Work & More The power of Sound and Breath Work.

These activities lead to a state of total relaxation and introspection in which healing and connection to our higher consciousness take place.

Tamarindo Call for appointment 8828-8947 / 8812-0100 hello@puravidavibrations.com puravidavibrations.com Pura Vida Vibrations @puravidavibrations

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Book online at www.DiamanteEcoAdventurePark.com

PEST CONTROL

CABO VELAS PEST CONTROL Pest Control - English Speaking Bug Busters is now Cabo Velas Pest Control with 10 years of experience El Llanito, Villarreal Mon-Fri, 7-4 8416-4860 / 8702-6807 bamboopq@yahoo.ca

TRAVEL & ADVENTURE

B FIT RETREAT Training, surf and adventure Tamarindo Adapted to tides and activities 8720-0438 www.bfitretreat.com bfitretreat @bfitretreat

CAVALLINI VETERINARIAN Animal Hospital Full-service veterinarian hospital for all animals and wildlife Royal Palms Plaza, Santa Rosa M-F, 8-noon, 1-7, Sat, 8-12, 1-4, Sun, 9-noon, 1-5 (pet shop only) 2652-9009 / 8815-5713 (24/7)

THE DOGTOR Vet, Grooming & Pet Shop Export proceedings, delivery, pick-up and drop-off service Plaza Palmas #3, Tamarindo Mon-Sat, 8-5 8351-9910 / 4702-5106 thedogtortamarindo@gmail.com

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Book online at HOWLER MAGAZINE | 63 HM www.DiamanteEcoAdventurePark.com

BRAULIO CARRILLO • JACÓ

Aerial Tram Hanging Bridge Zip Line Gardens Tapirus Lodge and more...

15% OFF

Book adventures online at rainforestadventure.com

Book lodge online at tapiruslodge.com Discount code:

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HOWLER Living Costa Rica

Costa Rica's New Recycling Program That Pays You Back

April 2019

DINING GUIDE Page 21 #s earchf indh owl

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HOWLER

CO N T E N T S ECOLONES - IT ADDS UP Cover Story

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Pura Vida: Living Costa Rica

4 - Cover Story: Ecolones - Incentive for Recycling 7 - Simply Spanish: A lo Tico 8 - Wellness: Breathe in the Benefits 10 - The Doctor Is In: Pinkeye - Usually Harmless 12 - Spanish: Pesky Subjects (and Objects) 14 - Yoga Wisdom: Chakra System 16 - Fashion Flash: Lingerie - Feel Good About Yourself 18 - Animal Life: Animals Alone and in Trouble

DINING GUIDE HOWLER

CHAKRA

Yoga Wisdom

14

Trouble ne and inEven Animals Alo Try? Help ... Should You Can You

part 1

A Dining Adventure Awaits

Estuary gh the Tamarindo with a Boat Ride Throu

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ngguide

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NE | 19 HM HOWLER MAGAZI

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19 Dining Guide

20 - Dining Guide Feature: Bula Bula 27 - Simply Spanish: Dining and Shopping Food Guide

22 Restaurants

LINGERIE Fashion Flash

BULA BULA THE GREAT WALTINI Featured Restaurant 2 | #search findhowl| online

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22 - Playa Grande - Bula Bula 23 - Playa Grande - El Oasis Chill Out and Lodge 23 - Playa Grande - Pots & Bowls 23 - Huacas - La Playita Restaurante 24 - Huacas - New York Pizza 24 - Villarreal - Black Stallion 24 - Tamarindo / Langosta - El Barco 25 - Brasilito - Lucy’s Retired Surfer Bar & Restaurant 26 - Flamingo - Margaritaville: 5 o’Clock Somewhere Bar 26 - Flamingo - Margaritaville: Banana Wind Cafe 25 - Flamingo - Margaritaville: Capriccios Pizza Bistro & Cafe 27 - Flamingo - Vaca Loka Italian Restaurant 27 - Flamingo - Marie’s Restaurant 28 - Surfside / Potrero - Nasu Restaurant 28 - Surfside / Potrero - The Beach House 29 - Las Catalinas - Sentido Norte

Read all current and past articles online

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COVER STORY

ECOLONES Costa Rica’s New Incentive for Recycling

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by Tom Schultz

Incentive elements add up to a win-win for participants, the country and the planet alike.

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nyone who lives in Costa Rica or visits often can appreciate how daunting the problem of solid waste management is here. Most developing nations have the common challenges of deficient infrastructure and cultural barriers to the development of efficient and sustainable waste management practices, especially recycling. Costa Rica is no exception.

For a nation with a “green” reputation, it seems incredible that 80 percent of what we throw away is recyclable but not always recycled.

Compounding this problem is Costa Rica’s lack of landfill space, and specifically landfills that do not leak or leach into the water table. It is one of the larger and more serious problems you rarely hear about in travel or expat relocation brochures.

Fortunately, there is more than just hope.

Welcome to the new sustainable community where you technically get paid to recycle. Visitors to the new Costa Rican ecolones website are thus introduced to an initiative that sounds ideologically futuristic and logistically mindboggling, but is very much a reality and steadily gaining traction. For the same reasons that make the program name “ecolones” such a clever play on words (also known as eco lones, e-colones and similar variations), few could argue that its incentive elements add up to a win-win for participants, the country and the planet alike.

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How it works

Announced just a year ago in April 2018, ecolones is a recycling incentive program based on simple reward principles: you earn virtual money (ecolones) for all the recyclable materials you bring to a designated collection center that can be traded in for discounts on goods and services.

Signing up for the program is easy at www. ecolonescr.com (a Spanish-only website, but still relatively user-friendly). An email address is all you need to create and log in to your online account, and start collecting rewards in return for recyclables. At the time of each delivery you make, credits are applied to your ecolones account. Your accrued ecolones can be redeemed for online purchases and retail sponsors who will accept ecolones account cards. Auto and tire stores, and movie theaters are just a few examples.

For anyone who wants to recycle but has no clue what items are accepted and where to take them … or even how to find out, the answers are now just a few clicks away (see page 6). Even if you don’t sign up for the ecolones program, this is a terrific one-stop resource for knowing which recyclables are collected, and where.

Photos courtesy of ecolones

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Is it working?

As an early program adopter, I give ecolones a thumbs up. Here is some firsthand insight into how well it’s worked in our household.

After recycling for almost 30 years while living in the United States, we have also done our best to recycle since moving to Costa Rica almost eight years ago. In the beginning, the hardest aspect here was locating a place to take the recyclable items we were collecting. I applaud the ecolones program for one of its greatest and earliest achievements in clearing up that mystery!

After gathering our items for a month or so, we separated them into the different types of materials taken. Then off we went to our local recycling center in Puriscal, which is part of the ecolones program. We waited for the collection team members to come out and told them we had recyclables to exchange for ecolones. They took down the email address for our ecolones account and after that, it was a matter of the collection team counting and recording total numbers in the notebook for every bottle, every can, every glass jar, and every Tetra Pak we delivered.

After this first trip, we waited what seemed like a long time before the numbers finally appeared online in our ecolones account. On our second trip to the

recycling center, the process was already a bit more streamlined. No doubt that trend will continue as the recycling centers and program participants get used to the concept.

Pro tip : Categorize, count and total up all your recycling materials ahead of time on a list at home. When you drop the items off at the recycling center, simply present the list with your ecolones account email to the collection crew and you should be good to go.

Where and how often we redeem our ecolones — perhaps to see a movie or get a great discount on tire alignment — is less important to us than the satisfaction of being able to do our part for a greener Costa Rica.

It is nice to have this program and know that it really works.

Well before the program’s firstyear anniversary, more than 40,000 people with an ecolones account likely feel the same way and recycled more than 9.6 million units of recyclable waste.

So if you have not been recycling, this is your reason to start, even if initially it’s just a “what and where” learning experience. Every bit helps to lighten the burden of trash in Costa Rica, making this paradise just a bit closer to reality.

Go Big or Go Home Costa Rica shows the world how

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ithin months of Costa Ricans being urged to give recycling their all through the newly launched ecolones incentive program, they had chalked up a world record: 30 metric tons of used plastic bottles — 65,000 pounds — collected and spared from a landfill fate in just eight hours. For a feat that would seem astonishing anywhere, tiny-but-mighty Costa Rica earned its rightful place in the Guinness Book of World Records for amassing the largest amount of recycling material ever collected in eight hours.

An online news story about the December 7, 2018 event, organized by ecolones, is posted at: nacion.com. You can also check it out on the Guinness World Records site: guinnessworldrecords. com.

For direct links visit: howlermag.com/ecolones

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COVER STORY

Trash to Treasure

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ven without a good knowledge of Spanish, you should find all the information you need about Costa Rica’s nationwide recycling incentive program at www.ecolones.cr. The site is easy to navigate and the content is easily understood using graphic icons and translated text. It includes an informative FAQ section.

From the pull-down menu for “Centros Acopio” (Gathering Center), you’ll find answers to the following questions. (Direct link: www.ecolonescr. com/centros-acopio)

Is this stuff worth anything?

These so-called “ordinary materials” are accepted at designated ecolones recycling centers: • Clean plastic bottles and containers • Clean single-use plastic bags • Clean, unbroken glass of all colors • Clean “tin” cans • Aluminum of all types, but no used foil • Paper and cardboard • Tetra Packs (now you can feel even better about emptying that Clos wine box!) along with Elopak (milk cartons). You will even find information on how to clean and flatten them.

And these biggies are accepted at a limited number of locations: • Electronics: old TVs, printers, phones, etc., through a partnership with the Gollo chain of stores • Used tires: now accepted at several recycling centers, and at some Riteve stations • Domestic oil

Where do I take the recyclable items?

The ecolones website offers a comprehensive listing of location addresses, operating hours and contact information for ecolones recycling centers throughout Costa Rica. For each category of recyclable items, the sites are organized geographically by province.

“Ordinary materials” are currently accepted at 60 recycling centers as follows (total number of locations in parentheses): San José (22), Alajuela (10), Cartago (eight), Heredia (seven), Guanacaste (six), Puntarenas (six) and Limón (one).

Discarded electronic items are accepted at three Gollo store locations in San José, four in Alajuela and one each in Cartago, Heredia, Guanacaste, Puntarenas and Limón.

Alajuela, Heredia, Guanacaste and Puntarenas each have a specified location for collecting recycled tires. Domestic oil is accepted at nine recycling sites: four in San José, two in Alajuela and one each in Cartago, Guanacaste and Puntarenas.

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SIMPLY SPANISH

by Sylvia Barreto Benites and Spanish For Expats

A lo Tico (Talk like a Tico) buena nota — Literally “good note,” or “good vibe” this usually refers to a nice person. “La vecina es buena nota” (“The neighbor is a nice lady.”) Also an expression of approval or congratulations. “¿Ya te graduaste? ¡Qué buena nota!” (“You graduated? Well done!”) chepe — A slang for San José, as in “Voy a chepe este fin.” (“I am going to San Jose this weekend.”) darle pelota — “To give the ball to someone,” to pay attention to someone, usually used in the negative. “Te traté de advertir, pero no me diste pelota” (“I tried to warn you, but you didn’t listen.”)

Diay! — Two meanings: Typically an expression of disbelief or confusion. If someone is sad, angry, excited you ask "Diay?" (What’s wrong?) It's also another way to greet in a very casual and informal way. "Diay, mi amiga?" (What’s happening/How’s it going, my friend?) hablar hasta por los codos — “To talk even from the elbows,” to talk and talk and talk. hablar paja — “To talk straw,” meaning to say a bunch of BS, or to speak of matters of little importance, or to kill time talking. jalar las orejas — “To pull the ears,” to punish or give warning to someone. manos en la masa — “Hands in the dough,” caught redhanded, caught in the act.

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HM HOWLER MAGAZINE | 7

PURA VIDA / LIVING CR

WELLNESS

Breathe in the Benefits

by Laura Méndez

Hyperoxygenation of the body and related chemical reactions support all healing processes.

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“L

ast breath in … fill up your belly, chest and ‘head’ with air. Pause… and let go. Exhale completely … empty.”

I could still hear our teacher’s voice in the distance. I followed his instructions.

Minute 1: holding empty. I´m somewhere out of my body. Minute 2: still holding empty.

I see lights and colors. My eyes are closed and I feel completely relaxed. Bliss. I have no need to inhale yet. There is no mind. Seconds keep passing by. I´m aware that I lost track of time, yet there I am … empty. Present. Relaxed.

Our odyssey started like this, in a small village located in the south of the Spanish Pyrenees Mountains. With a number of extraordinary achievements to his name, including 21 Guinness World Records, our teacher started us out with two hours of breathing exercises like the abovedescribed out-of-body experience. Then came a 10-minute ice bath — excruciating pain followed by absolute relaxing silence — followed by more breathing exercises involving integrating and processing.

We had gone for extensive training to learn this teacher’s methods, which allow him to control his breathing, heart rate and blood circulation (and to withstand extreme temperatures). He does this simply by breathing, also known as breathwork.

So what is this breathwork stuff? It is described as any type of therapy that utilizes breathing exercises to improve mental, physical and spiritual health. Many forms of breathwork therapy exist today, each with its own unique methods of using breath for healing purposes. Popular uses are during yoga and patterned breathing during childbirth.

Breathwork also facilitates a powerful detoxification process, as many of our toxins

are released through our breath. If we are not breathing at full capacity, it is safe to say we are not functioning at anywhere close to optimal levels.

Our bodies experience the imprints of our life journey. Breathwork is a powerful tool for accessing this archive and releasing any memories that might be trapped in the body before they turn into “dis-ease” or illness.

Hyperoxygenation of the body and related chemical reactions support all healing processes, in particular: • reduced depression/anxiety • stress management • pain management through decreased inflammation and increased pH levels • enhanced creativity through heightened states of consciousness and inspiration • improved energy levels • balancing the nervous system • trauma release by clearing negative imprints • awakening dormant functions of the brain to improve brain function and mind power • cleansing/purifying the bloodstream and lymphatic system • stimulating self-healing Breathwork sessions vary depending on specific styles available. Generally speaking, you will be in a safe space with other participants, seated or lying down comfortably on a yoga mat. Throughout the session, you will be guided on how to inhale and exhale, including the pace, timing and duration of holding. A good facilitator will take good care of you and provide any extra guidance you need.

I encourage you to attend one or many sessions of breathwork. Your body will thank you for dedicating this time to your wellbeing.

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HM HOWLER MAGAZINE | 9

PURA VIDA / LIVING CR

THE DOCTOR IS IN

PINKEYE: Unmistakable, Unwanted and Usually Harmless

by Dr. Herbert Weinman

Treatment of pink eye depends on the cause.

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C

onjunctivitis, better known as pink eye, is a common eye infection involving inflammation of the conjunctiva. That is the thin clear tissue covering the outer white portion of the eye and lining the inside eyelid.

Conjunctivitis can be highly contagious but is rarely serious and unlikely to damage vision. With appropriate care, it clears up with no long-term problems. Mild pink eye is almost always harmless and will disappear even without treatment.

Common causes are similar in Costa Rica and elsewhere: viruses (including those that cause the common cold), bacteria, irritants (such as shampoos, dirt, smoke, pool chlorine and contact lenses), reaction to eye drops and allergic reactions to pollen, dust, or smoke.

Depending on the cause of inflammation, pink eye symptoms may include: • Redness in the white of the eye or inner eyelid • More tearing than usual • A yellow or green discharge that crusts over the eyelashes, especially after sleep • Clear or white discharge • Itching and/or burning • Blurred vision and/or sensitivity to light Medical attention should be sought immediately if there is pain or vision-related issues, or if mild symptoms persist after a week.

Treatment of pink eye depends on the cause, as follows.

Viruses: Pink eye caused by cold-like viruses can be very contagious, so do everything to prevent spreading. Symptoms normally last four to seven days. As with any viral infection, antibiotics have no benefit.

Bacteria: Antibiotic treatment in the form of eye drops or ointments may be used.

Irritants: Apply cool water for five minutes to wash the substance from the eye. Symptoms should begin to improve within a few hours. If conjunctivitis was caused by an acid or alkaline agent such as bleach, immediately rinse the eyes with lots of water and seek medical attention right away.

Allergies: Avoid the trigger allergen.

Antihistamine drops can give some relief.

For general treatment of pink eye, wash your hands often with soap and warm water, especially before eating. Keep your eyes clean by washing away any discharge several times a day. Use tissues, and not fingers, to avoid skin contact.

Wash or change pillowcases every day until the infection goes away. Bed linens and towels should be laundered in hot water and detergent.

Keep personal towels, washcloths, and pillows separate from linens used by other people to prevent cross contamination.

Do not put a patch over the affected eye(s) as it may worsen the infection.

Non-prescription "artificial tears" may have some preventive benefit by easing the itching and burning from pink eye causing irritants.

However, do not use other types of eye drops — including those promoted for treating eye redness — because they may irritate the eyes instead.

Although pink eye caused by some bacteria and viruses can spread easily from person to person, it is seldom a serious health risk if diagnosed promptly. It can spread in areas where people live, work and play closely together. If you share a computer or other equipment with others, make sure to wash hands and keep from touching your face.

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PURA VIDA / LIVING CR

The Gender of Nouns Part 1

SPANISH

Pesky Subjects (and Objects)

by Sylvia Barreto Benites

This need to match the right article and adjective to any given noun seems truly foreign to an English speaker.

A

s we navigate the world of Spanish, some aspects unfamiliar in the English language can complicate our learning. It’s the little things that can get confusing…little things like the simple noun.

The Spanish noun — referring to a person, place or thing — has a masculine or feminine quality. It’s not really about gender, but simply a label to identify which article or adjective to use.

This need to match the right article and adjective to any given noun seems truly foreign to an English speaker.

We’ll start with this lesson on which definite and indefinite article goes with masculine and feminine nouns, in both their singular and plural form. In the next Howler issue, we’ll focus on adjectives.

The basic rule is that nouns ending in “o” are masculine and those ending in “a” are feminine.

But there is a little more to it than that.

Feminine nouns

Feminine nouns end in the letters “a,” “d,” “ó,” “n” or “z,” or one of these letter combinations: “is,” “ie” or “umbre.” For the definite article “the,” you use “la” for singular and “las” for plural nouns.

For the indefinite articles “a” and “some,” you use “una” for singular and “unas” for plural nouns.

Among the inevitable exceptions, the most glaring is “agua” (water). With all those “a”s, it looks positively feminine, and therein lies the problem. To avoid the cacophony of “a”s the article is masculine “el agua”.

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Masculine nouns

“LONERS” can help you remember this rule of thumb for masculine nouns. Most nouns ending in “l,” “o,” “n,” “e,” “r” or “s” are masculine.

That means that when you want to add the definite article “the,” you use “el” for a singular noun and “los” for a plural noun. To use the indefinite articles “a” or “some,” it’s “un” for singular and “unos” for plural.

Naturally, this rule has exceptions. Examples include nouns ending in “ma,” such as “el clima” (the climate) or “ta,” such as “el cometa” (the comet). There are even more exceptions, of course, which you learn as you go.

Gender-neutral nouns

Some nouns just can’t be pegged down; they change their masculine and feminine qualities. In particular, if the word representing a profession ends in “e,” the article before it will tell you if you are talking about a male or female profession. For example, “el cantante” is a male singer and “la cantante” a female singer. Although few and far between, other examples like this will be encountered.

Keeping track of your nouns is just one more step in understanding and commanding Spanish.

Read Spanish with these gender rules in mind.

Look for the noun and see what article comes before it to figure out the gender. Stay tuned for similar basic rules about masculine and feminine adjectives next time.

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HM HOWLER MAGAZINE | 13

PURA VIDA / LIVING CR

THE CHAKRAS

YOGA WISDOM

A Sacred System to Help Navigate Our Emotions

Y

by Marian Paniagua

oga is a compassionate and wise practice.

It has a very subtle way of dismantling any mental constructs based on false beliefs that provoke unease and disease. It offers gentle reminders of how transcendental it is to love and respect the body we inhabit. It enables more people to discover, awaken and move energy forces in themselves that are forever present and unconditionally at their service.

To fully receive all the gifts of yoga practice, it is fundamentally important to start extending our experience beyond body postures every time we get on the mat. Creative energy flows wherever our attention goes. Therefore, if we direct our attention to the infinite intelligence that makes our heart beat, we will start connecting with this force. This enables us to give it direction with purpose, toward emotional expansion and evolution.

Breath provides our most tactile connection to the “subtle” energy extending beyond our physical body. In addition, we can learn from the

CHAKRA

We can learn from the wisdom of the chakra system to become more intimate with ourselves.

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Location

wisdom of the chakra system to become more intimate with ourselves. The Sanskrit word “chakra” translates as “wheel.” This knowledge of the chakras stems from the Upanishads, a sacred Sanskrit text dating from 600 BCE. Chakras are energetic centers in the subtle (beyond physical) body. This energy contains information that can be used to map our emotions. It is a beneficial tool for learning the root cause of any unbalance, be it physical, mental, emotional or spiritual.

Chakras are depicted as lotus blossoms, located from the base of the spine to the crown of the head. Traditionally there are seven principal chakras, defined in basic terms, locations color and organ relationship as follows.

This information is just the tip of the iceberg concerning all the knowledge and wisdom related to the chakra system. I hope it stimulates your appetite for further selfdiscovery.

Color

Correlates with

1st

Base Chakra (Muladhara)

Near perineum

Red

Reproductive glands (testicles in men, ovaries in women)

2nd

Sacral Chakra (Svadisthana)

Below navel

Orange

Kidneys

3rd

Solar Plexus Chakra (Manipura)

Below sternum

Yellow/ light gold

Pancreas

4th

Heart Chakra (Anahata)

Heart area

Green

Thymus gland

5th

Throat Chakra (Vishuddha)

Throat

Turquoise- Thyroid gland blue

6th

Brow Chakra / Third Eye Chakra (Ajna)

Mid-brow

Deep blue Pituitary and pineal glands

7th

Crown Chakra (Sahasrara)

Crown of head

Violet and white

Pineal gland

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PURA VIDA / LIVING CR

Lingerie Uncovering How to Feel Good About Yourself

FASHION FLASH

by Patricia Sterman

F

ew would argue with Jenna Leight, a famous lingerie designer, about the importance of her fashion specialty area: “Lingerie is the first thing you put on and the last thing you take off, EVERY SINGLE DAY.” Women should think of lingerie the same way as they select their shoes — it should match their outfit and be comfortable, classy and sophisticated.

Jenna adds, “Every woman should have a strapless bra, a t-shirt bra, a sexy non-padded lace bra and a push-up bra.

Also a bikini, a thong and boyshort-style underwear.”

For many women, the world of lingerie is a big mystery, with the common misconception of being reserved for “special-occasion sexy.”

They may not have considered the notion of wearing “everyday” lingerie — as long as it is comfortable — to feel extra-special when taking their clothes off after a busy day.

For lingerie neophytes, I suggest starting with purchasing a new “bralette,” a big fashion item this season. This is a tight-fitting crop

top with straps, often made in lace or similar fabric. Bralettes can be worn by themselves with high-waisted denim shorts or under a see-through garment.

Bodysuits are also in style right now; it’s amazing how great they look as tops but when you remove your pants you are still dressed.

Finally, I offer a few words on what men really think about lingerie.

They want you to put on something that makes you feel like a goddess, looking different every time. They like the idea that you take the time to be beautiful for them and yourself. Your man wants to be important on your everyday list — not just on special romantic occasions — and lingerie puts him and yourself at the very top.

So next time you buy lingerie, don’t worry about how it looks. Instead, focus on how it makes you feel inside … seeing yourself in it and wearing it. Enjoy the process! Some women have a really hard time thinking of themselves as sexy.

In that case, try thinking of yourself as powerful, creative and feminine.

Lingerie can make you feel that way every day, no matter who else sees it.

For many women, the world of lingerie is a big mystery.

If you need any type of fashion advice or recommendation for a special event, contact

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HM HOWLER MAGAZINE | 17

PURA VIDA / LIVING CR

Animals Alone and in Trouble ANIMAL LIFE

Can You Help ... Should You Even Try? Part 1

by Dr. Gilberth Cavallini

Any movement can cause severe pain and the natural reaction to bite.

M

ost people familiar with Costa Rica realize how common it is to encounter animals almost anywhere. Sometimes these animals are injured or otherwise in distress but sometimes they look out of place or in a high traffic area.

Typically, it’s a stray dog or cat, although wildlife or even horses or cattle in public areas, are nothing out of the ordinary. Yet, that does not mean we automatically know what to do in such situations.

Whenever we see an animal we should assess if it is away from home or in poor condition. If this is the case, and you have time to help it, you are doing a great service to this animal. Under Costa Rican laws all domestic animals — pets and those involved with agricultural production — must be properly identified. Owners are responsible for any harm to humans or animals, as well as property damage, resulting from negligence or non-compliance.

Some guidelines may be helpful for safely lending a hand to animals in need. We’ll start in this article with the most common instance of dogs and cats.

Information about horses, monkeys and other kinds of wildlife will appear in the next Howler issue.

When assessing if an animal is, in fact, stray or without a designated home, first identify if the animal is friendly or not by trying to call it towards you. Be cautious, and able to protect yourself. Signs of aggression in cats are flattened ears and hissing, and in dogs their tail is low and not wagging and they might growl. At this point, leave the animal alone.

If the animal is friendly and comes towards you, check to see if it has any type of collar or is running towards a particular home or building. Ask the people around you if they know who owns the cat or dog. If you think that the animal is for sure a stray, always

check whether it is male or female before removing it from the scene. Even a badly injured nursing mom will resist leaving her babies behind and attempt to return to the litter. An incomplete rescue, however unintended, would expose the little ones to die from starvation or the mother escaping and risking her life to reunite with her babies.

For cats or dogs that are stray but seem sociable enough, a box may be adequate for transporting them, or at the very least a pillowcase. Bring the animal to our offices , or any supportive veterinarian or rescue agency, and we will work on finding its owner or rehoming it. We always welcome someone to foster an animal while we look for their owners.

Traffic accidents are a common reason for finding injured dogs on the road, with a high probability of fracture trauma. Any movement can cause severe pain and the natural reaction to bite. Try to immobilize the dog above the neck before lifting it by wrapping something around its head. Look for signs of internal hemorrhage too, by carefully checking the dog’s gum color. Totally white gums means there is little chance of survival, and death will occur within minutes. Just stay with the dog in the meantime, offering a calming presence through petting.

The same advice generally applies to injured cats. In addition, there are instances when a stray cat appears to need help, even when injury or illness is not apparent. It’s best to be prepared if possible before attempting to rescue a feral cat — that is, seemingly healthy but homeless. Using a protective trap or cage is preferable to best ensure the rescue mission and transportation will be safe for both you and the animal. These are available at our clinic to borrow with a deposit.

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HOWLER

DINING GUIDE

A Dining Adventure Awaits with a Boat Ride Through the Tamarindo Estuary

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HM HOWLER MAGAZINE | 19

FEATURED RESTAURANT

Bula Bula : Your Perfect Escape Plan

by Jonathan Hiltz

Bula Bula means happy-happy, but the word bula can also mean hello or goodbye.

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f you find yourself traveling to Guanacaste for the first or maybe the tenth time, you’ll note the incredible number of restaurants and other eateries that exist. Food is so prevalent in the Tamarindo/Playa Grande vicinity that travelers could spend most of their vacation dining their way through the area. Having said that, not all restaurants or dining experiences are created equal. One of them that stands out above the rest is The Great Waltini’s, inside Hotel Bula Bula in Playa Grande.

A unique aspect of this restaurant, if you are coming from the Tamarindo area, is that restaurant-goers can take a boat across the wildlife-abundant estuary to get to Hotel Bula Bula. This awesome ride almost acts as its own appetizer for the fabulous food that awaits when you reach the shores of the hotel.

The menu itself in The Great Waltini’s is described as a “fusion of the Americas,” melding California fresh with Gulf Coast cajun and New England seafood. From St. Louis style pork ribs to Annie’s salad with a fusion of blackened chicken

breast, avocados, veggies and some of the freshest salad greens you can find, the menu is packed full of flavors. The flavors don’t stop there. By far, The Great Waltini’s is worth the trip just for the housemade desserts, the best we’ve ever had in Costa Rica.

The true escape comes with some of The Great Waltini’s most amazing treats that most restaurants don’t offer. One of the best times to visit is Monday night, for the all-you-care-to-eat Mexican buffet. For $15 you get a wonderful array of delicious Mexican dishes, as well as happy hour prices on the bartender’s spectacular margaritas.

The same goes for Wednesday night’s all-youcare-to-eat Italian buffet, loaded up with carbs and finished off with those amazing desserts. This is no place to count calories; instead it is about escaping and enjoying the views, trip and dining experience.

Another special treat that this hideaway offers is that restaurant guests can come any day and enjoy the refreshing pool and amenities. Come for lunch and stay for the whole day!

Are you looking for a longer-term escape plan?

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FOR SALE

“Bula Bula” is Fijian and actually has a few different meanings. In the case of this resort, Bula Bula means “happy-happy,” but the word “bula” can also mean hello or goodbye. This is apt for Hotel Bula Bula at this time, because the current owners are saying goodbye by putting this remarkable piece of paradise on the market for sale.

“It’s a definite life experience,” said Wally Beck, owner and operator. Beck is one of the original owners of the hotel and restaurant and has been running it successfully for the last 18 years. When asked what originally drew him to the Guanacaste region and Playa Grande in general, he simply said it was “the vibe.”

Getting out of the rat race is the one constant that seemingly drives people’s decision to become an expat: removing oneself from the day-to-day minutiae of commuting to the same place, working many hours and then returning home only to do it again the next day. While there are those who enjoy that existence, some of us believe that life is simply too short. If you are reading this and think you’re one of the latter, there’s a reason that Costa Rica is first on so many expat lists.

Beck and many like him are all-toofamiliar with the trepidation and fear that can be related to drastically changing one’s life and taking a leap of faith to do something different. “You just gotta cut the string,” he said, meaning of course that

My wife and I enjoying some of the colorful Bula Bula tales from owner WallyfBeck. #s earch indh owl

despite the unknown, it’s worth it to forge ahead anyway. “I’m still enjoying life, loving Costa Rica,” he said.

Beck went on to add that Playa Grande, where the property is located, is a gated community in between two national parks, Las Baulas and Tamarindo Estero.

One of the great benefits of buying into the country of Costa Rica through an opportunity like Bula Bula is it would allow the new owner to apply for residency.

This privilege comes with great dividends, including not having to leave the country every 90 days, which is part of Costa Rica’s immigration and tourism policy.

If you are looking to take advantage of the Hotel Bula Bula opportunity, Beck says it would best be suited to someone with restaurant and hotel experience.

Nevertheless, he is willing to stay on temporarily in order to ensure a smooth transition and to train the new owner so they can continue running the tight ship that has been sailing along for 18 years.

If you are simply a traveler and want to enjoy a fabulous meal and what is widely considered to be the best margaritas around, The Great Waltini’s in Hotel Bula Bula is waiting for you. After a few drinks, you just might gain the confidence to come and live with the rest of us expats.

See you soon.

Photos: Richie Velasquez

Live your Dream Bula Bula,

the profitable hotel, restaurant and bar is for sale.

10 Rooms

(king size beds)

4 rooms connect for families

128 seat restaurant 18 seat bar After 18 years, it's time for the current owners to move onto their next adventure.

Priced to move at $1,100,000

Contact: Wally Beck 8863-0477 wally@hotelbulablula.com (Tell Wally you saw it in the Howler)

HM HOWLER MAGAZINE | 21

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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Main road to Playa Grande, 20 meters after Wilmart Hours Fri - Sun, 4pm-10pm Phone: 2249-6166, 8496-2221

El Oasis Chill Out and Lodge Authentic Asian Food

Enjoy traditional Vietnamese and Thai cuisine in a tropical garden setting.

Specialties Smiles and Good Vibes private Asian Chef Service, Pho, Free delivery to Playa Grande and Matapalo

MENU SELECTIONS

Appetizers

Spring rolls, rainbow salad and nems

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

PLAYA GRANDE

DINING GUIDE

MENU SELECTIONS Choco-Banana NiceCream

Peanut butter, cacao, almond milk, granola, bee pollen, nibs

$9

Entrees Tuna Poke $14

3km south of Huacas, road to Tamarindo Hours Daily, 7am-9pm Breakfast 7am-10am

Sushi rice, avocado, edamame, wakame, mango

HUACAS

Pad Thai, bun nems bowl, Cantonese rice, stir fried wok,

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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HUACAS

8 min. drive from Tamarindo, 2km south Villarreal 200m west of the Brasilito/ Huacas crossroads, Huacas www.nypizzeriahuacas.com @nypizzeriahuacas Hours Mon, 5pm-9pm Tues-Sun 3pm-11pm Phone: 2653-6296 8729-5640

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.

MENU SELECTIONS

Hours By reservation

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.

Phone: 8869-9765 Specialties Zipline and BBQ buffet for only $85.

Available for private parties and events.

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

TAMARINDO / LANGOSTA

Hotel Capitán Suizo, Playa Tamarindo Hours Daily, noon to 9:30pm Mon, 7-9pm, Live Marimba Wed, 7-9pm, Avellino Fri, 7-9pm, Live Marimba

Baby back ribs, chorizo and chicken, sides included A delicious array of seafood and sides dishes

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

Phone: 2653-0075 restaurante @hotelcapitansuizo.com

Tacos Carne (Lunch)

$15

Tartar Capitan (Dinner)

$13

Specialties Healthy dishes made from scratch with local and fresh products

The Veggie (Lunch)

$15

Linguini (Dinner)

$23

Lomito (Dinner)

$28

All taxes included in price

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Beef in tortillas with mixed cabbage salad, guacamole and tamarindo sauce 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

Tuna and mango tartar with capers and a cilantro, ginger and soy dressing

Calamari, jumbo shrimps, mussels, Spanish chorizo, cherry tomatoes, white wine 200gr of tenderloin with a tamarind sauce over Swiss Roësti and vegetables

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VILLARREAL

DINING GUIDE

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

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. Let the sea breeze and sound of the waves remind you that when you’re here you’re always on vacation. At Lucy’s we’re serious about our grub – we’ve got all your classic favorites like burgers and nachos, as well as our signature coastal bites with a touch of Pacific flair. Our one-of-a-kind drinks are the perfect way to cool down after a long day at the beach, and we keep them flowing all day (and night!) long. Lucy's’ daily food & drink specials are boat-to-table and will give you something new to try every day, and with live music, a radical bar scene, and six large-screen TVs, Lucy’s is Guanacaste's hottest new bar and restaurant!

MENU SELECTIONS Shaka Ceviche

c5,500

The Juicy Lucy

Avocado Fritas

c5,500

Bacon Brie Chicken Sandwich

Cheese Quesadilla

c5,000

Tsunami Tuna Salad

Serious Nachos

c6,700

Blackened Fish Tacos c6,000

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 #s earchf indh owl

c7,500

Our famous 8 oz. burger served on a brioche bun with Lucy’s special sauce

Grilled marinated chicken breast topped with bacon, brie, tomato, and spinach

c6,500

Freshly seared yellowfin served over spring mix with fresh fruit and feta

Blackened local fish topped with mangopineapple slaw and avocado crema

Pao Pao Shrimp Tacos c6,500 Fried or grilled shrimp tossed in a sassy pao pao sauce, topped with cabbage slaw

Flank Steak Tacos

c6,500

Marinated flank steak topped with jalapeño chimichurri and queso fresco

Whole Red Snapper Casado c8,000 Served with island rice, black beans, and a side salad

N’awlins Surf n’ Turf c10,000 Marinated flank steak served with head-on Cajun BBQ shrimp and roasted potatoes

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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

Mon. Apr 1 - Jose Vega, 8-10 Thu. Apr 4 - Jose Vega, 4-6 Fri. Apr 5 - Charly López, 8-10 Sat. Apr 6 - Groobeach C., 8-10

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.

Sun. Apr 7 - Charly López, 8-10 Mon. Apr 8 - Jose Vega, 8-10 Thu. Apr 11 - Jose Vega, 4-6 Fri. Apr 12 - Jose Vega, 8-10 Sat. Apr 13 - Caminantes, 8-10 Thu. Apr 18 - Jose Vega, 4-6 Fri. Apr 19 - Groobeach C., 8-10 Sat. Apr 20 - Mystic Trío, 8-10 Semana Santa Mon. Apr 22 - Jose Vega, 8-10 Thu. Apr 25 - Jose Vega, 4-6 Sat. Apr 27 - Caminantes, 8-10 Mon. Apr 29 - Jose Vega, 8-10

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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.

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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by Sylvia Barreto Benites and Spanish For Expats

DINING GUIDE

Dining and Shopping Food Guide (m) = masculine noun (f) = feminine noun

Useful Phrases ¿Me podria dar un kilo de …? — Could you give me one kilo of …? en salsae — made in a tomato sauce en salsa blanca — topped with a bechamel sauce al ajillo — with a garlic sauce

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

a la plancha — pan roasted

Specialties Pizza, pasta, meat, fish

las carnes (f ) y las aves (f )

el pollo frito (f ) — fried

— meats and poultry

chicken

las albóndigas (f ) —

el pollo (f ) — poultry

meatballs

el ternera (f ) — veal

House Lasagna

la carne de cerdo (f ) —pork

el pescado (m)— fish

la carne de res (f ) — beef

Ribeye c6.500

los mariscos (m) — seafood

la carne mechada (f ) —

la almeja (f ) — clam

la carne molida (f ) — ground meat

las chuletas de cerdo (f ) — pork chops

el cordero (m) — lamb las costillas (f ) — ribs el filete (m) — steak el filete de ternera (m) — beef steak

el guiso, el estofado (m) — stew

el hígado (m) — liver el jamón (m) — ham el pavo (m) — turkey la pechuga (f ) — breast el pollo (f ) — chicken

MENU SELECTIONS c6.500

el atún (m) — tuna el bacalao (m) — cod el calamar (m) — squid el camarón (m) — shrimp el caracol (m) — snail la langosta (f ) — lobster el langostino (m) — king prawn

La Plaza, Playa Flamingo

el mejillón (m) — mussel

Hours: Daily, 7am-9:30pm

la ostra (f ) — oyster

Phone: 2554-4136

el pez espada (m) — swordfish

el pulpo (m) — octopus el salmón (m) — salmon las sardinas (f ) — sardines el tiburón (m) — shark la trucha (f ) — trout

Sponsored by SPANISH FOR EXPATS spanishforexpats23@gmail.com spanishforexpatscr.com (506) #8729 4857 searchfind howl

Marie's:

Local and International

Specialties Check out @mariescostar for weekly special event nights

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 Eggs Benedict

c4.200

Chicken Caesar Wrap

c4.600

Fish Tacos c7.000 HM HOWLER MAGAZINE | 27

PLAYA FLAMINGO

pulled beef

PLAYA FLAMINGO

SIMPLY SPANISH

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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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

$8

Casa Chameleon Burger $19

Guacamole and Salsa

$12

French Toast

$12

Ceviche $14

Moules Frities

$26

Knife & Fork Tortillas

$14

Grilled Chicken Wrap

$17

Grilled Skirt Steak

$32

Chicharrón or vegan huevos rancheros

With greens, avocado & tomato, spicy aioli

Vegan Omelettes

$14

Vegan Bowl

$19

Mushroom Lamb Risotto $33

With almond milk, yogurt, fruit, cashews, local honey or tapa dulce

With sweet plantains and coconut milk cream

With asparagus, mushrooms and caramelized onion

Angus burger with arugula, Swiss or goat cheese and aioli Fresh fish ceviche, leche de tigre, homemade "chilero"

Quinoa, mushroom and squash picadillo salad, spicy garbanzo beans

Hearts of palm ceviche, avocado & tomato Wok sautéed with garlic butter and chardonnay broth

Skirt steak, chimichurri sauce, salad, french fries

Slowly braised with porcini, portobello and crimini mushrooms

Prices shown include 13% tax and 10% service / Prices subject to change

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HM HOWLER MAGAZINE | 29

BRAULIO CARRILLO • JACÓ

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Book adventures online at rainforestadventure.com

Book lodge online at tapiruslodge.com Discount code:

HOWLER

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Onsite, phone or email reservations, 10% discount #s earchf indh owl

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