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CR BIZ Real E st a t e , B u s i n e ss a n d I nve s tm en t
TAKE TO THE SKIES COSTA RICA AIRWAYS
DINING GUIDE Page 29
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Costa Rica in Flight Cover Story
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Making an Impact in Jaco Community Feature
Costa Rica's National Shot: Chiliguaro Dining Guide Feature
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6 - Cover Story: Costa Rica Airways 10 - Architectural Spotlight: W Residences at Reserva Conchal 12 - Property Spotlight: Reserva Camaronal 14 - Doing Business Right: Growth and Spread of Rising Cities 16 - CR Biz Feature: Harvesting Growth from Farming Roots 18 - Community Feature: Jacó Impact Making a Difference 20 - Entrepreneur CR: Harmonize Your Goals 22 - Real Estate 101: Being a Respectful Renter 26 - LegalEase: Important Update for Inactive Corporations
29 Dining Guide
30 - Reserva Conchal - Zona Azul 30 - Reserva Conchal - Cocina de Mercado 30 - Reserva Conchal - Latitude 10° North 31 - Featured Drink - Chiliguaro 31 - Jacó - Trident Poseidon 32 - Playa Grande - Pots & Bowls 32 - Playa Grande - Rip Jack Inn 33 - Huacas - New York Pizzeria 33 - Huacas - La Playita 34 - Tamarindo / Langosta - El Barco del Capitán 34 - Tamarindo - Nordico Coffee House 35 - Flamingo - 5 o’Clock Somewhere Bar 35 - Flamingo - Banana Wind Cafe 35 - Flamingo - Capriccios Pizza Bistro & Cafe 36 - Surfside / Potrero - Fat Daddys 36 - Surfside / Potrero - The Beach House 37 - Las Catalinas - Sentido Norte 38 - Restaurant Directory 40 - Dining Guide Map 41 - Dining Guide Highlights
Reserva Camaronal 12
W Residences 10
Read all current and past articles online
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Casa Bellavia - Dominical, Puntarenas
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COVER STORY
Co-piloting this recent flight departure from Liberia was Kyle Berger, a Costa Rican native now working with Air Canada in Toronto. Photo: Luis Felipe Murillo Castillo
Soon-to-be-expanded local airport of Quepos Photo: Watch The World / Shutterstock.com
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Liberia's Daniel Oduber Quiros International Airport in Guanacaste, Costa Rica's second largest airport. Photo: EQRoy / Shutterstock.com howlermag.com
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.. Skybound Flying Costa Rica’s Airways by Jim Parisi & Alei Burns
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ptions for air travel to, from and around Costa Rica may be more varied than many visitors and newcomers realize. This relatively small, but popular tourist and relocation destination is home to four international airports, plus 14 smaller airstrips available for domestic flights only. Located 20 kilometers west of downtown San José, Juan Santamaria International Airport was named for the national hero who died fighting the notorious American filibuster William Walker. It has been the primary Costa Rican airport facility since construction was completed in 1958. In 2016, the airport serviced 4.6 million passengers, averaging nearly 1,300 customers daily.
Slow to grow
Daniel Oduber Quirós International Airport, named for the Costa Rican president who served from 1974 until 1978, is commonly referred to as “Liberia International”. Eleven kilometers southwest of Liberia, this airport hosts travelers visiting the western region of the country, including the Pacific coastline. Originally named Llano Grande, Liberia’s airport changed its name when it became certified for international travel in 1995. Public response was hesitant initially and growth was slow. In 2006, a project expanding the tarmac and terminals was completed and the floodgates opened. In 2016, the airport hosted 1.2 million passengers, about 2,500 per week. Tobias Bolaños Airport in Pavas was named for Costa Rica’s first licensed pilot, who paved the way for aviation in the country. Primarily used now for chartered flights and international freight excursions, it has declined in popularity to 32,000 travelers in 2017, less than one-quarter of the traffic it
experienced just eight years earlier. Limón International Airport reopened in 2006 after being out of operation for nearly 20 years. A certified international airport, it currently services only the Caribbean coast of Costa Rica, with four weekly flights to San José.
Roadways alternative
Most of Costa Rica’s domestic airstrips were constructed before the turn of the century as a solution to problematic road conditions at the time. Completed prior to the significant influx of tourism and construction to accommodate new residents, these small airstrips probably helped preserve the country’s biggest asset: its natural beauty. Puerto Jiménez Airport is the busiest domesticonly airport facility, servicing Golfo Dulce, Drake Bay and Corcovado National Park. In 2014, the most recent year for reported data, the airport was used by 36,000 passengers. La Managua Airport de Quepos is the second most popular domestic airstrip (34,000 passengers last year), with Quepos and Manuel Antonio the primary destinations for its customers. The asphalt airstrip is just three kilometers inland from the Pacific Ocean, providing memorable landings and takeoffs. The Ministry of Public Works and Transportation recently began an overhaul of the increasingly popular Quepos airport. The three-month project will add parking for light aircraft, detailed security fencing and an improved stormwater drainage system. These improvements, at a cost of about $2,500,000, will comply with the new safety and security requirements established by the International Civil Aviation Organization.
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Small airstrip in Tambor, Puntarenas. Photo: Susan M Jackson / Shutterstock.com
Tourist favorites
COVER STORY
The Playa Tamarindo airstrip, the third most frequented domestic airport, is a private enterprise 43 kilometers southwest of Liberia, with flights daily to that city and to the capital. A vacation/surfing destination, 27,000 people used the Tamarindo facility in 2017, the most recently published statistic. Despite fluctuating numbers in recent years at all other domestic airstrips, Tamarindo’s customer usage has risen consistently over the past 18 years. La Fortuna Arenal is another private airstrip, named after the Arenal Volcano which, until recently, was the most visited site in Costa Rica. The airport has daily flights to Quepos, Liberia, Tortuguera and San José. Nearly 13,000 passengers used this busy airport in 2017, a 60% increase from the previous year. Nosara is home to a government-owned asphalt airstrip servicing the southern Guanacaste region. The strip is just three kilometers inland from the Pacific Ocean. With daily flights to and from San José, it accommodated nearly 7,000 passengers in 2014. Eight kilometers north of the Panama border, San Vito de Java Airport (aka Coto 47) services the community among the oil palm plantations. Its asphalt strip, open to the public, offers two Sansa flights a day. Los Chiles Airport in Alajuela is just three kilometers south of the Nicaragua border and 100 kilometers northeast of Liberia. A new asphalt airstrip here offers new, easy access into the country’s capital. A smattering of other airstrips throughout Costa Rica includes sites in Tambor, Islita, Palmar Sur, Puerto Viejo and Neily. The conditions range from new tarmac
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Aerial view of Juan Santamaría International Airport in Alajuela near San José howlermag.com
These small airstrips probably helped preserve the country’s biggest asset: its natural beauty. Airplane landing in the Caribbbean port city of Limón, with cruise ship in the background Photo: Cris Young / Shutterstock.com
to literally grassy strips with no amenities. Tortuguero, for example, has little more than a grass strip and a shed full of fuel tanks, but it services 12,000 customers a year. Carrillo Airport is located five kilometers west of Playa Samara in southern Guanacaste. Its grass airstrip begins at the Pacific shoreline, sloping eastward, with a 200-foot roughhewn “spillway” at the end for extended landings. There is a covered shelter with a scale, occasionally used to weigh luggage before boarding. There are no nearby amenities. Public buses run in and out of Carrillo airport twice a day, except on weekends, when there is no service. A drop-off point for the surfing meccas Malpais and Santa Teresa, it gives us a romantic glimpse at what domestic air travel was like throughout this country not so very long ago.
Where are they?
International Domestic
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W Residences at Reserva Conchal Set a New Bar for Luxury Living by Karl Kahler
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ARCHITECTURAL SPOTLIGHT
eserva Conchal was already in a class of its own for luxury housing in Costa Rica, but it’s about to blow up the template. In 2018, the resort supplemented its all-inclusive Westin by building a spectacular new W Hotel. Now it’s adding a new community of W-branded “tree homes” designed by Costa Rica’s most illustrious architect, Ronald Zurcher, in a style matching the imaginative and whimsical design of the W. In a telephone interview, Zurcher said these 14 residences are called tree homes because they’ll be elevated from the ground, as if floating in the air. “Most of the house is on stilts,” he said. “In some areas it will touch the ground, but from outside you would see that everything is elevated. The stilts supporting the main structure are recessed, not at the edge, so part of the structure is ‘flying,’ hovering above the ground, and also the roof extends a long way to protect from the sun and rain.” The homes will all feature a cantilevered design — with spaces like terraces that jut out into the air even more. And like the W, they will have curved roofs connected directly to walls, an innovation that Zurcher said is inspired by the fact that animals don’t have “roofs” — they’re made of the same continuous material on top and on the sides. The 14 lots now being offered for sale range in price from $500,000 to $800,000, with the premier lots offering spectacular 360-degree views of the ocean, the mountains and the picturesque resort below. Buyers can choose between 2-, 3- and 4-bedroom home designs for between $1.5 million and $3 million. All homes will have a pool, gardens and covered parking. For bathrooms, Zurcher said he wanted to create an outdoor feel that also provides privacy, so they will have mesh screens with different textures to create the feeling that you’re looking through branches and leaves in the rainforest. The entire home, in fact, is designed to provide privacy in the rear, he said. “But in front it’s completely transparent to enjoy the view and the breeze.” Owners of W residences will be treated just like hotel
Artist's rendering of the W Residences.
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Aerial view of the W Hotel. The curvy road at lower right is where the W Residences will be built. Images courtesy of Reserva Conchal
guests, and they’ll have full access to all the amenities of the W — restaurants, bars, pools, beach club, spa, gym and even housekeeping and room service. And the W is a gorgeous hotel, with a fun and funky design featuring elements modeled on traditional symbols of Costa Rica, including bullrings, oxcarts, guanacaste trees, pineapples and marimbas. W is an iconic brand owned by Marriott with more than 50 hotels in 25 countries, as well as 15 collections of W Residences, from Bali to Boston. W prides itself on its witty, irreverent style and bold, unconventional look. The W concept stresses the historical, physical and social attributes of each of its destinations, honoring local traditions but adding its own perspective. And it’s an intensely social company, focused on how people eat, drink, play, dance and interact. Now this offbeat brand will have one more feather in its cap — houses that appear to be hovering in mid-air. Reserva Conchal had no shortage of stunning homes before, but the W Residences will be its finest development ever. howlermag.com
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View of Reserva Camaronal, the mouth of the Río Ora and beyond. Photo: Dennis Moore
Camaronal: ‘My Hopes and Dreams on Steroids’ by Karl Kahler
I PROPERTY SPOTLIGHT
stepped onto the vertigo-inducing third-story glass balcony of an 8,000-square-foot mansion on a mountainside in Camaronal, and I felt like Jack on top of the beanstalk. It’s quite a climb to get up here, but the rewards are magical. I took in a panoramic view of a cobalt-blue bay, with a peninsula to the left that looked like a crouching dragon, the setting sun to the right, and a huge expanse of broccoli-green trees on the slopes below. The owner, Jordan Heilweil, is a 62-year-old electronic security expert from New York who recently built his house at La Reserva Camaronal, a 100-acre gated community 30 minutes east of Sámara that I would call the most unspoiled property I’ve ever seen for sale in Costa Rica. “I told them I wanted something that was different and unique and made sort of a statement,” Jordan said, recounting his conversations with the father-and-son architect and engineer, Hugo and Oscar Vargas. The dream home he built, Casa de Los Sueños, has a master bedroom, a room for the two kids and four guestrooms with their own bathrooms. It has a dramatic, transparent spiral staircase in the middle of the house, and the infinity pool in front is an ideal space for entertaining. “Amazingly, I had the house built in pretty much 24 months,” he said. “I came down every six weeks. I didn’t have one argument with the builder. It was a very good experience. I have no complaints, no regrets. I think it would have been tougher to build in New Jersey." One of the owners of La Reserva Camaronal said he
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showed some lots to a client who called this property “my hopes and dreams on steroids.”
The backstor y
I was visiting my brother Paul Collar, who is the administrator at La Reserva Camaronal, to renew my acquaintance with what I consider Costa Rica’s best-kept real estate secret. Paul took me on a tour of the property, explaining that Reserva Camaronal is inscribed under “horizontal condominium” law as a full-service gated residential subdivision, with access, power and water in place for most of the lots. There are actually three horizontal condos here — Montaña, which is active with 75% of the lots served with utilities, and Playa Norte and Playa Sur, which are constituted horizontal condos but lack utilities and are for sale as projects. (But do not make the mistake of picturing “condominiums” that all look alike — these are individual homesites where you can build any kind of house you want, within certain limits.) Montaña is the best place to buy an individual homesite, as the steep hillside ensures an ocean view for virtually all of them. There are about 45 lots for sale here, priced from around $80,000 to over $200,000. Right across the public gravel road from Montaña are the beachside Playa Norte and Playa Sur, which the owners want to sell as a whole rather than piecemeal. Playa Norte has 12 titled lots on 3.2 hectares, with water and power, priced at $725,000. Playa Sur has 25 titled lots priced at $1.5 million. There howlermag.com
The “Glass House” is one of just a few structures on the entire property. Photo: Nicholas Bonin
is also a 1.8-hectare titled corner lot with its own well that is outside of the condo and ideal for a commercial project — a hotel, restaurants, convenience store, surf shop, you name it — priced at $750,000. It’s a short walk from here to the popular surfing beach at Playa Camaronal, where there is also a wildlife refuge that rescues turtle eggs and releases the hatchlings.
well-vented space between the ceiling and the roof, and long overhangs to keep the sun off the house. “My buildings will create their own draft,” he said, “because I have this air space I just described, so any heat is going up and getting out.”
The nature
The on-site caretaker, a man from Hojancha named Marcos Castillo Acosta, said he has seen white-tailed deer, peccary, coatis, white-faced monkeys and howler monkeys on this property. I myself have seen scarlet macaws, green parrots, white-throated magpie jays and beautiful hawks called caracaras. The dominant feature of Reserva Camaronal is its isolation — there are multiple places where you can gaze in any direction and see no sign of human habitation. That’s why I’ve dubbed Camaronal “the land that time forgot.” And yet it’s within 30 minutes of the hopping beach town of Sámara, and within 15 minutes of the spectacular Playa Carrillo.
Daryl and his 29-year-old son Nick, both of whom surf Playa Camaronal often, said what’s unusual about the surf here is that it breaks both right and left, and it breaks on both low and high tides. “I would consider it a pretty forgiving break, although it’s definitely more of an advanced surfing break,” Nick said. “It is a majority local crowd out there, but they’re friendly, and the wave and break itself has multiple peaks. And if there is a swell, it’s very consistent, and so it’s easy to be able to hold the crowd, with plenty of waves for everyone.” Nick suggested that it’s not a good wave for beginning surfers, but when I asked if you can do a face-plant and break out all your teeth, he said, “I mean, you can do that walking to the bathroom.”
The builder
Final word
My brother’s roommate and business partner, Daryl Bonin, plans to build a spec home on one of the lots here. He described his pet peeve about Costa Rican construction: concrete homes with vaulted ceilings that have no way to vent hot air. “If we opened that [ceiling] up and put in a little cupola, there would be continuous venting, so the hot air would go out and you’d create a current, and encourage air to come in here.” Daryl intends to build a house not with concrete but with lightweight, strong galvanized steel, with insulated walls, a
The sur fer
Back to Jordan Heilweil, who looks out on all this beauty from the uppermost home at Camaronal. “I think it’s breathtaking — you have the whole Blue Zone, it’s healthy, it’s stress-free, it’s extremely relaxing,” he said. “This is definitely a slice of heaven — it doesn’t get much better than this.” I asked if he had any advice for people considering buying here. He said, “Do it.” Playa Sámara is a popular beach town 30 minutes from Camaronal. Photo: Dennis Moore
A view from the heights of Camaronal’s splendid isolation. Photo: Rick Brown
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The Free Zone Regime has been a dynamic force behind Costa Rica’s important steps forward to increase investment outside the metro area. Photos courtesy of CINDE
Rising Cities Savoring Benefits of the Free Zone Regime by Eric Scharf
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DOING BUISNESS RIGHT
ears ago, when free zone companies in Costa Rica were talked about, San José, Heredia and Alajuela would automatically come to mind. But times have changed and economic progress beyond that socalled Greater Metro Area (GMA) has made free zones a relevant conversation topic throughout the whole country. "When it rains, you get wet," is an apt metaphor to explain how the Free Zone Regime (FZR) has been extending the concept of rising cities outside the GMA in recent years. This expansion has not been easy and there is much more to do. We are aware that the conditions for FZR development are not always ideal, while it is essential to increase their competitiveness. However, this target has underpinned improvements to the infrastructure, technology, connectivity, and human talent reskilling of rising cities. In 2015, part of that job was to identify 20 rising cities with clear opportunities for Foreign Direct Investment (FDI). The Costa Rican Investment Promotion Agency (CINDE) in that regard has been featured in recent Howler articles.
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FDI opportunities in rising cities are tied to learning goals for English as a second language in those areas. In 2018, 200 people from San Carlos and Puntarenas, between the ages of 18 to 45, started the Skills for Life program. Its objective is to teach English and soft skills, such as finances and leadership, to 800 participants. The HR-GPS project is another example of striving to make human talent acquisition more effective, motivating them to invest more in Costa Rica’s rising cities. Finally, the Remote Work Law has enhanced the possibilities for hiring workers who do not need to commute from these regions or even change their place of residence. Amazon is a perfect example. In 2019, the company hired 1,050 collaborators who work in a virtual capacity. More than half of them — 53% — live and work outside the GMA.
Win-win benefits
The universal benefit of this law has strengthened the FZR by making it more efficient and practical, at the howlermag.com
same time improving the employees’ working conditions. There is no question that the FZR has been a dynamic force behind Costa Rica’s important steps forward to increase investment outside the metro area. CINDE’s data reveals that 547 jobs were created in 2019 as an outcome of FDI in rising cities. In the last four years, employment has increased by 10% annually. That robust growth has been attributed to an increase in medical devices exports, a reduction in the wage gap, and an increase in Costa Ricans' job opportunities. FDI from companies attracted by CINDE adds up to more than 118,000 jobs for a high-caliber labor force. Companies within the FZR are doubling their efforts to promote Costa Rica not only as an economically stable country, but increasingly wider and more desirable job opportunities for all our citizens. In the last four years, rising cities’ employment has increased by 10% annually.
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Aerial view of pineapple plantations in Costa Rica
Nature’s Abundance
by Jim Parisi and Alei Burns
Baskets of Bounty for Domestic and Export Markets
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CR BIZ FEATURE
griculture has always been vitally important to Costa Rica’s self-sustainability, while also playing an integral part in the Gross National Product for more than two centuries. The country’s diverse climates ensure a wide variety of fruits and vegetables can thrive, while dictating where these cash crops are best grown. Coffee, specifically, is harvested from plants grown in the cooler mountain regions. It has been Costa Rica’s leading export product since the end of the 18th century. The introduction of international big business into the economic equation has resulted in mono-agriculture plantations producing solely one of the next three biggest food export crops: bananas, pineapples or sugar. Overall, Costa Rica’s fruit and vegetable production accounts for about 10% of the nation’s economy, comprising about onefifth of its labor force. Agriculture, in turn, uses about 10% of the country’s land. It is a compact investment with very high returns.
area where corn was planted the previous season replenishes that soil’s nitrogen level. In addition, the benefits of “companion planting” are being demonstrated. Incorporating natural insect deterrents such as mint and lemongrass with vegetable plants keeps invasionary insects like the foraging Japanese beetle at bay, while also yielding a secondary, herbal crop. Many Tico farmers have discovered the drawbacks of the “slash and burn” technique. More and more, they are opting for reforestation and selective tree felling, recognizing the long-term benefits of these practices.
Small-scale sustainability
The real surprise is that Costa Rica’s agricultural economy has maintained a familial feel: nearly half of the farms here are less than 10 hectares (about 25 acres) in size. Sustainable farming has been practised for centuries, but techniques such as crop rotation are being adopted more widely. Farmers have learned, for example, that planting tomatoes or legumes in the same
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Red berries from coffee plantation in Costa Rica howlermag.com
It is a compact investment with very high returns. Ambitious outlook
With Costa Rica’s declaration of becoming the first carbon-neutral country on the planet by the end of 2021, these grassroots organic farming experiments have become the petri dish for agriculture’s larger-scale future. Ironically, all these farming techniques have been employed by Costa Rica’s indigenous Bribri nation for at least 3,000 years. In the Talamanca region especially, the Bribris practice a subsistent agroforestry. They harvest the natural growth beneath the forest canopy while rotating their introduced vegetation within the forest. Nutrient recycling is in the form of bat guano and composting to replenish the soil, thus deterring insects and other plant predators. Embracing centuries-old practices that have kept Costa Rica such a bountiful garden may be the key to progress on several promising fronts
Above left: Costa Rican banana farmer. Photo: JHVEPhoto / Shutterstock.com. Above right: Costa Rican postage stamp commemorating agricultural and industrial fair in Cartago, 1950. Photo: neftali / Shutterstock.com
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Jacó Impact
Making Waves in Ways that Matter
COMMUNITY FEATURE
by Emily Simmons
Reflecting Jacó Impact’s efforts to strengthen community relationships, Yorgina Ureña (pictured above center and far right of inset photo) was invited to conduct a recycling workshop during an anniversary event for the well-known environmental conservation group Green Wolf Costa Rica. Photos: Sergio Simón
Jacó’s issues can be addressed one by one, if the community bonds together. 18
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orn and raised in the neighboring port city of Puntarenas, Yorgina Ureña has been part of the Jacó community for almost a decade. As a young girl, she was easily inspired. Driven by passions of art, design and dance, Yorgina walked through life with a creative spirit. Nothing allowed as much self-expression, however, as her natural surroundings. A love for the ocean and the beautiful coastal environment captivated her swiftly and she spent most of her childhood on a boogie board. After leaving her family home at age 18 to work in a Guanacaste hotel, Ureña found herself surrounded by some of the best waves in the country. Taking almost every lunch break to spend a few fleeting moments of fun on her boogie board, she soon started experimenting with a surfboard. What began as an afternoon work break quickly became an obsession. Nearly 18 years after Yorgina’s first day on a surfboard, she still finds herself enjoying the sport that has brought her a unique and “blessed lifestyle.”
Following her passion for surf, Ureña traveled south to Jacó eight years ago. She worked hard to establish herself in the community, finding employment in various hotels and businesses. And, just as before, she ran to the ocean with her surfboard every chance she got. Yorgina’s identification as an adult surfer solidified her early love for nature. Countless hours spent in the ocean created a strong personal bond with this natural arena of beauty and sport. She grew exponentially, both as a surfer and a professional, while settling in Jacó. In an effort to give back to the place where she had gained so much, Yorgina started pursuing work opportunities with social development goals. She felt inspired to make an impact in areas where Jacó seemed to need stronger community support.
Community alliances
A paradise of natural beauty, the once-small coastal town of Jacó underwent rapid surges of
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development in the early 2000s. In the rush to keep pace with the tourist boom and a promising economy for new hotels and businesses to thrive, organized infrastructure was left behind. While Jacó remains an important central Pacific destination, residents have been negatively affected by aspects of this growth spurt that were not well organized for their long-term well being. One of Ureña’s main concerns, for example, is that there is no local hospital to serve a population that now stands at nearly 10,000 individuals. In response to this and other shortcomings is access to education, as well as general environmental awareness, she created a non-profit organization called Jacó Impact. Jacó Impact was founded upon the goal of “creando alianzas para nuestra communidad” — “creating alliances for our community.” Through larger projects and community-based activities, group members work to raise awareness of environmental issues and initiatives relating to education, social well being, arts and culture. Examples of Jacó Impact projects include free English classes for children, beach and river cleanups and recycling workshops in high schools. In a celebration of entrepreneurship and creativity, spaces are made available for artists and burgeoning professionals. Through word of mouth, social media and community events, Jacó Impact spreads its message of social movement. Yorgina believes that Jacó’s issues can be addressed one by one, if the community bonds together in commitment to making it a better place to live and visit. “As caregivers [of our environment] we must take the responsibility for finding and learning new tools and implementing them to create true actions and from there give support to our world,” she says. Locals and visitors alike, Ureña maintains, can make their own individual impact on the beautiful community of Jacó.
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Harmonize Your Objectives Be Happy Working for Others and for Yourself
ENTREPRENEUR COSTA RICA
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et me begin by saying that I’ve taken my time getting around to writing about this topic. It’s one that I hope you will find relevant and empowering in your personal and professional life as my previous Howler articles were intended to be. For readers not familiar with my background, I am an Integrative Health Coach living in Costa Rica and an entrepreneur like you. Currently, most of my work hours are dedicated to marketing and sales for one major client. But as may be the case with many of you, I have certain other objectives that I want to accomplish for the sake of feeling fulfilled. It is hardly a secret that we, as humans universally, are always striving for happiness. How can we be happier? The answer is often connected with our achievement of goals. The distinct feeling of satisfaction when that happens is something we would like to hang on to. Running our own business, we are constantly following action plans to ensure everything gets done with the optimal results. When we succeed, our business succeeds and this is satisfying. So as humans seeking fulfilment in our lives outside of business, shouldn’t the same result be possible? How can we get to the next level of self-satisfaction? Harmony is the key to being excited about working for others and working for yourself at the same time. It’s about creating harmony between both. Here are some tips to help you synchronize your work and your personal objectives. 1.
2.
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Set goals for you Entrepreneurs know this better than anyone: your work project goals are in line with your clients’ goals. Set your personal goals in parallel. Sleep, eat, move, share and love. These are important goals to keep your mind and body in optimum shape. Pay attention to your personal objectives and I guarantee you’ll be efficient in your work. Plan My June 2019 Howler article about time management emphasized that setting priorities and staying focused were two key factors for coping with one unchangeable
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by Joanna Blanco
fact of life: every day has 24 hours. You need to divide your day correctly. Consider this approach: 8-8-8. Divide your day into three parts and allocate a portion to sleep, to work, and to eat, move, relate, have fun and connect with yourself. It doesn't have to be a precisely equal-parts equation, but shortchanging yourself during one part of the day is bound to have negative consequences. For example, how do you feel and how well do you function at work after getting only four or five hours of sleep? Or do you constantly lack the energy to do anything other than sleep? Plan to balance your equation harmoniously. 3.
Don't give up too soon Plans are not made to be perfect. The beauty of having a plan is that it’s your way of trying. One of the most repeated pieces of advice is the first sentence in this paragraph. If the plan you started out with did not give you the desired result, then rethink it. Create a new plan. Add some new energy, change your strategy and take one step further.
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Self-care The new religion, as I call it, is to care about your personal goals. The way you take care of yourself is every bit as vital as the way you care about your work. You need harmony in all areas in your life, but it mostly comes down to these two: work and the rest of your life. As an entrepreneur, these two areas can be mixed very easily. Just pay attention if this mixture is working for you.
When you accomplish any one of your objectives, you will feel happier. This mood will help you create more harmony in your life to succeed in your business and your health. Want some help harmonizing your life? Contact me: joanna.blanco@vivesattva.com / IG Movimiento Sattva howlermag.com
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Vacation Home Renters are Not Just Guests Be the Kind of Neighbor You Want Next Door at Home
Real Estate 101
by Jodee Lynette
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ravelers have been staying in private homes for as long as there have been people on the move. The internet has revolutionized this practice. Vacationing in a homey environment is often the best of both worlds for vacationers and corporate travelers. But sometimes it is the worst possible scenario for surrounding homeowners. They are just doing their thing, living an everyday life, when suddenly a neighboring home turns into a college fraternity house. Here in Costa Rica, it is a fast and disruptive way to lose the tranquility of pura vida. It is common knowledge that vacation rentals have earned a bad rap, and for good reason. Yet sometimes the people renting these homes don’t seem to care. This doesn’t make much sense, as the whole idea of a vacation rental is to have the homey and neighborly experience. So here are a few reminders. • Remember not to have more people staying in your vacation rental than what you agreed with the owner when making the reservation. • If you have guests over even for just a few hours, their behavior is your responsibility. • Take care of the property as if you owned it. Avoid behaviors and activities that cause damage. Just a few of many, many examples include lighting a fire where it doesn’t belong, overloading the washing machine, showering when your body is covered in sand and swinging wildly in the hammock. • Conserve energy and water as if it is your own home. • Park respectfully and correctly, only where permitted. • Keep the noise level at a considerate decibel at all times. Drop that noise level at a considerate hour in the evening and mornings. • Remember to keep the doors locked. You wanted a neighborly and local experience for your vacation, but that means being neighborly and acting like you would if you lived here. Remember you are always an ambassador of your gender, age group, race and nationality, and also the vacation rental industry. Make a good impression.
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OCEAN SURF & SUN
Serving the Gold Coast since 1999 Call us at 1-866-976-8898 / 2653-0073 Playa Tamarindo, Guanacaste, Costa Rica
www.remax-oceansurf-cr.com
The experts in buying property in Costa Rica, with more than 20 years experience and the largest networked team of agents in the country. We can help you learn if investing in Costa Rica is right for you with our educational approach to sales. Our professional agents can tell you more about Costa Rica properties including condos, homes, lots and commercial real estate. We have a team of professional and very experienced agents to serve you, from Playa Marbella to Playa Danta in the Guanacaste, through our Playa Tamarindo ofďŹ ce. Contact us for more information! (506) 2653-0073
HM HOWLER MAGAZINE | 23
Luxury Real Estate
Costa Rica
COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE SERVICES, WORLDWIDE
Buy | Sell | Rent | Property Management Villa Christopher | $2,895,000 | 6 Bed/7.1 Bath | 5,500 SF
Flamingo - Ocean View
Playa Flamingo - Beachfront
Casa Linda del Mar|$2,37M|4Bed/4.1Bath
Ostional | $1,995,000 | 4 Bed/4.1 Bath
Playa Potrero - Ocean View Flamingo|$1,49M |6 Bed/3.1 Bath
Villa Bougainvillea|$2,495,000|8Bed/8.2 Bath|3,821 SF
Villa Rio Ruby Sky - Ocean View
Hermosa | $1.25M | 4 Bed/4.1 Bath
Casa Islana |$1.950,000 | 8 Bed/8.2 Bath
Ocotal - Ocean View
Potrero | $1,19M | 7 Bed/7.1 Bath
Oceanica Penthouse
Ocean View
El Sueño de Ocotal
Ocean View Villa!
Casa Mar Vista
Ocean View!
Potrero | $625K | 3 Bed/3.2 Bath
Ocotal | $675K | 8 Bed/7 Bath
Casa Tiger - Beachfront
Reserva | $549K | 4 Bed/4 Bath
Flamingo |$525K |3 Bed/2 Bath
Bougainvillea 8103
Ocean & Golf Course Views!
Oceanica 810
Ocean View & Walk-to-Beach
Potrero| $459K | 3 Bed/3.1 Bath
Villa Ballena
Beachfront Duplex
Villas Catalina 12
Ocean View & Walk-to-Beach!
www.KrainRealEstate.com | 2654-4010 | 1-866-994-9163 24
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Potrero |$459K | 2 Bed/2 Bath
Flamingo|$389K|2 Bed/2.1 Bath
Potrero | $389K | 3 Bed/2.1 Bath
Potrero | $369K | 4 Bed/3 Bath Casa Cristobal
Casa Vida
Walk-to-Beach! Walk-to-Beach!
Pacific Beach 5
Beachfront
Flamingo Towers 16
Ocean View
Potrero | $359K | 4 Bed/3 Bath
Ocotal | $349K | 3 Bed/3 Bath
Casa Fresca
Walk-to-Beach!
Potrero | $349K | 1 Bed/1 Bath
Potrero | $279K | 2 Bed/2 Bath Casa del Sol
Other Units Available!
Pacific Beach 7
Beachfront Con
Azul Paraíso 1C
KRAIN Costa Rica | COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE SERVICES Brasilito|$9.9M|383 Hectares
Flamingo | $5.95M | 6782m2
Coco | $4.5M | 1.18 Hectares
Bagaces|$4M|1200 Hectares
La Fortuna |$2,995M | 30 Acre
Leaves & Lizards
Boutique Hotel
Toro Azul
Development - 9 Land Plots
Titled Beachfront - FLAMINGO
Hotel Site - Residential Development
Tamarindo | $2.47M | 26,956m2
Tamarindo Paradise
Hotel Site or Residential
+1M Existing Improvements
Coco | $1,399M | 11,830 m2
Commercial Road Frontage Mixed-Use Development
Beachfront
Zoned - Tourism
Hotel or Mixed-Use Brasilito | $1,285M | 16 Rooms
Conchal Hotel
& Papaya Restaurant
Burdeos Cattle Ranch
Montezuma|$1.195M|9 Rooms
Tambor | $949K | 9 Rooms
Horizontes de Montezuma
Boutique Hotel
Castillo Resort
Boutique Hotel & Restaurant
OUR PASSION IS REAL ESTATE. Our team is comprised of U.S. and Canadian licensed agents who have chosen real estate as their profession and value the high standards imposed by U.S. and Canadian licensing requirements. KRAIN’s local reputation and expertise is backed by its selection as a member of the Leading Real Estate Companies of the World®, a global community of over 550 international real estate companies awarded membership based on rigorous standards for service and performance. KRAIN is also the exclusive Costa Rica affiliate for NAI Global, the 4th largest commercial brokerage in the world, and Mayfair International Realty, a London based firm with a global reach. KRAIN’s Luxury Marketing is fueled by Luxury Portfolio. Simply put, we are the best at what we do. Our professionalism, knowledge, and high quality of service is the cornerstone of our unprecedented success and is our continued promise to you, our clients.
Breitlander Team
Peter & Sarah | Owners
Jeff Goode
Broker Associate
Jane & Dennis
Broker Associates
Les McIntyre
Broker Associate
Rafferty Team
Debra & Frank | Brokers
Jesse Lobb
Broker Associate
Monett Team
Hickey Team
Doug & Sharon | Brokers Ryan & Chrissy | Brokers
8413-7165 or 6148-0406 C.R. Cell: 8411-5347 8844-2577 or 8701-8697 C.R. Cell: 8511-1625 8504-8394 or 8363-1247 C.R. Cell: 8530-0275
C.R. Cell: 8510-1154 8829-8983 or 8426-7380
info@kraincostarica.com Jeff@kraincostarica.com Jane@kraincostarica.com Les@kraincostarica.com Rafferty@kraincostarica.com Jesse@kraincostarica.com Doug@kraincostarica.com Hickey@kraincostarica.com
LeadingRE.com | LuxuryPortfolio.com | MayfairInternationalRealty.com
Offices in Tamarindo, Flamingo, Potrero, and Ocotal
Costa Rica
Luxury Real Estate
HM HOWLER MAGAZINE | 25
CR BIZ
New Obligations for Inactive Corporations by Ivan Granados
I
n December 2019, a new resolution (DGT-R-075-2019) was announced in Costa Rica that requires inactive corporations to: 1. 2.
Register with the Tax Office’s Single Tax Registry — the Spanish name is Registro Único Tributario (RUT) — under the code number “960113.” Submit annual tax return forms regarding their assets, liability and share capital. Previously, only corporations that were active, or generating income, had this Tax Office filing obligation.
LEGALEASE
This new law requires two forms, D-140 and D-135, to be filed according to scheduled deadlines indicated later in this article. Failure to comply is subject to heavy fines of up to 1,350,600 colones or $2,390 US, or more. Inactive corporations are defined as: “…those companies incorporated in the country that do not have lucrative, income producing, activity of a Costa Rican source.” This includes all commercial companies, branches of foreign companies and individual limited liability companies. There are two steps required for compliance with the new law: 1. File form D-140: Declaración de Inscripción en el Registro Único Tributario via the Virtual Tax Administration (ATV) at www.hacienda.go.cr. This form covers pertinent details such as the corporation’s legal representative, address data, contact information, etc. 2. File form D-135: Declaration for Legal Persons Patrimonial Dormant is also available via ATV. This
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form is a declaration of assets, liabilities and share capital. Specific aspects to note for each step are as follows.
Step 1
It is not necessary to file form D-140 if the company/ corporation had already filed D-140 with the Tax Office in 2017 or 2018, in compliance with Law 9248: Tax on Legal Persons. Filing deadlines for form D-140 correspond to the last digits of a corporation’s legal ID: Legal ID ending 1 and 2 3 and 4 5 and 6 7 and 8 9 and 10
Filing Month January 2020 February 2020 March 2020 April 2020 May 2020
Step 2
Form D-135: Declaration for Legal Persons Patrimonial Dormant is filed annually. This requirement applies even if the corporation/company had no change in income status. For example, if there was no income in 2020 nor in 2021, an annual return must still be filed. The filing deadline for Form D-135 is within two months and 15 days from the fiscal year end. The current fiscal year ends on December 31, 2020. Therefore, the first filing period for Form D-135 will be between January 1, 2021 and March 15, 2021. howlermag.com
HM HOWLER MAGAZINE | 27
www.FlamingoBeachRealty.com (CR) +506 8402-2795 (US) 1-239-205-5097 Exceptional Service
•
Genuine Care
•
Buy. Sell. Invest.
Villa Cielo y Mar
Casa Louzon
Playa Flamingo, Southridge
$1,740,000
4 bed / 7 bath + maids 7800 sq ft Incredible Sunset Views & Views of Marina
Flamingo Beach Realty Welcomes Randy Toltz International Broker To Our Team!!
Casa Cielo Colores de Pacifico
$1,300,000
Playa Flamingo
1 bed/1 bath apt Awesome Ocean views, Guitar Pool, Walkable to Beach 3982 sq ft
Casa Cascadas
$595,000
$550,000
2 bed / 2 bath Randy has been selling real estate since the Playa Flamingo/Potrero 3 bed/3bath Playa Potrero, Surfside 2450 sq ft Incredible Oceanviews, Private Pool, Walkable to Beach 2153 sq ft Walkable to the Beach! No expenses spared! late 1990’s. He is a Licensed Real Estate Broker in Colorado, as well as an active realtor in Costa Oceanica 829 Casa Sienna Rica. He is a member of the South Metro Denver Association of Realtors®, and the National Association of Realtors. You may also recognize Randy from his appearance on several recent episodes of the popular TV show, House Hunters International.He lived and sold property in Costa Rica for 8 years and he is proud to be returning to doing business in his home away from home. $425,000 $289,900 Randy and his wife Kim are Colorado natives as 2 bed / 2 bath 3 bed/2.5bath Playa Flamingo, Northridge Surfside, Potrero 2000 sq ft Steps to the Beach! Walkable to Shops & Restaurants 1300 sq ft Most Affordable 3 Bed in Town! Walkable to Beach! well as legal residents of Costa Rica. He is fluent in both English and Spanish. He has a passion for his Flamingo Marina Resort 202 Tamarindo Azul 4 family, outreach, photography, travel, and a love for life. Randy served as an Associate Pastor at Beach Community Church in Brasilito, Costa Rica, as well as the Head of Missions and Outreach for the church. As a full service real estate professional, he works with buyers, sellers and investors in all types of real estate transactions spanning all of the price ranges and property types. He looks forward to helping you $169,000 $239,000 find your dream home in Paradise! 1 bed / 1 bath, 484 sq ft Playa Flamingo, Northridge 3 bed/2 bath Tamarindo 1400 sq ft
Great size! Walkable to the Beach
Melanie Engel
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Braeden Engel
Jennifer Dalton
Michael Avey
| #searchfindhowl | online + 506-2654-6565
Will Matthews
Ocean Views & View of New Flamingo Marina!
Vanessa Bonilla
Flamingo Plaza #B7
Brandy LeRoy
+ balcony
Greg Petin
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HOWLER
DINING GUIDE
Sentido Norte Margaritaville W Costa Rica — Reserva Conchal El Barco Open to the Public with Reservations
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HM HOWLER MAGAZINE | 29
DINING GUIDE
ZO NA A ZUL
Zona Azul Beach Club
B E AC H C LU B
Hours Lunch: Dinner: Pool:
MENU SELECTIONS Noon-6pm 6-10pm 10am
Special Events Zona Azul Day Pass $100 (Consumables towards Beverage & Food $80) Caliente (Latin Classics & Salsa Classes) Fiesta No Siesta (Saturday Pool Party) Detox Retox Repeat (Sunday BBQ + Live Music)
GALLO PINTO CROQUETTES
BUDDHA BOWL
LIMA CEVICHE
WINGS & BBQ PORK RIBS
Lizano mayo, scorpion chilli, pico de gallo
Turkey, quinoa, grilled veggies & pesto sauce
Sea bass, leche de tigre, rocoto, sweet potato, lime juice
CRAVING
Strawberry barbecue, hot mango, oriental
FIRE GRILLED SEAFOOD
EL PARRILLON
Octopus, shrimp, squid, chilli sauce, sourdough toasted bread
New York steak, pork belly chicharrón, sausage, chicken breast
Cocina de Mercado: Market-inspired restaurant Hours Breakfast: Mon-Fri, 6:30-10:30am Sat, Sun 6:30-11am Lunch: Noon-3pm Dinner: 6-10pm Special Event - W Brunch $65* Unlimited Food Showcase & Beverage When: First Sunday of each month 12.30-3.30pm Live Music!
Open market concept with indoor and outdoor seating featuring a large show kitchen where guests have the chance to interact with our chefs. Must-try: Sudado de pescado (Catch of the day and seafood stew) or lamb shank with beer and coriander risotto
Latitud 10° Norte: Boutique bistro Hours Dinner:
6-10pm
Specialty: Mixology Dining Experience includes 4 signature cocktails paired with 4 L1°N dishes $90* RSVP required
Explore a labyrinth of exotic flavors in this boutique bistro, serving sophisticated fare. Must-try: Braised short ribs or shrimp angu
WHATEVER /WHENEVER® Reservations for every restaurant (or anything else you need at the W) are available at Whatever/Whenever. 30
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Call: 2654-3600
howlermag.com WhatsApp: 8489-7458
FEATURED DRINK
Jacó Downtown Calle Bohio Hours: Daily, 7 a.m. - 10 p.m. Happy Hour 4 p.m. - 7 p.m. Phone: 2643-1642
Chiliguaro
The Real Taste of Costa Rica by Howler Staff
T
here’s no question that chiliguaro is Costa Rica’s most famous cocktail. You can find this spicy shot at most bars in the country. Competitions and tastings are held to see who has the best Chiliguaro recipe. Most places create the mix in large quantities with a bottle of guaro, 10 to 12 mandarin limes and a bottle of Tabasco. Chiliguaro is a very simple recipe, and it is a real taste of local Costa Rica. The recipe below for chiliguaro has been sized for six servings so all your friends can enjoy.
Ingredients • • • •
3/4 cup Cacique guaro 3 cups tomato juice 1/2 cup mandarin lime juice 3 tbsp tabasco
Method • • • •
Prepare in a shaker Add salt to the rim of a highball glass Pour all the ingredients in Stir
Daily Specials Mon: Cheeseburger and fries Tue: Beef, chicken or fish casado
International Cuisine: Strategically located in downtown Jacó, Poseidon restaurant at Trident Hotel offers a variety of signature plates of international cuisine, as well as all-day specials and vegan options, all cooked with love. Additionally we offer our hotel services plus our sports bar menu at the famous third-floor Sky Lounge.
Wed: Fish burrito and salad Thu: Beef onion cheddar sub Fri: Fish and chips Sat: Asian chicken stir fry
Sun: Eggs benedict and mimosa
Menu Selections
Smoked Salmon Dip Ribeye USDA choice Mahi-Mahi Fish Ceviche Babaganoush
Tuna Poke Baby Back Ribs Flat Iron Steak Vegan Putanesca Pasta Mystic Middle East Lentil Stew
www.hotel-poseidon.com @TridentJacoCR HM HOWLER MAGAZINE | 31
JACÓ
DINING GUIDE
DINING GUIDE
PLAYA GRANDE
Hours: Daily 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. 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.
We offer a unique menu of fresh local seafood as well as tasty treats from the land. We are family friendly and offer special menus for kids 12 and under. RipJack also offers full catering service and specializes in weddings and other special events. Although the restaurant is in the treetops, it is wheelchair accessible. Playa Grande Call 2653 0480 8 a.m. - 9 p.m. Tuna Tower ₡5,800 A stack of ahi tuna, cucumber, heart of palm and avocado in a creamy wasabi aioli
Menu Selections
Burrata Caprese ₡8,000 Tomato wedges, Burrata cheese, fresh basil and olive oil
Acai-Banana and OJ - Blackberries, chia, homemade granola & banana
Kale Caesar ₡5,500 Romaine and kale w/ homemade Caesar dressing topped with croutons and fried kale
Angus Cheeseburger – Dehydrated tomato, arugula, caramelized onions, aioli $15
Sesame Crusted Tuna ₡11,000 With crunchy broccoli over a mix of brown rice, Asian bean sprouts and truffle oil
Fish or Chicken Tacos – Cabbage salad with mango and pico de gallo, avocado, honey mustard and homemade tortilla $14
Mahi Mahi ₡10,500 Pan fried served with crispy capers, cherry comfit and fennel, over cauliflower puree
Tuna Poke - Sushi rice, avocado, edamame, wakame, mango
Veggie Bowl
Ribeye ₡11,500 12-oz. steak served with haystack sweet potato fries and salad
Grilled Mahi
BBQ Ribs
@potsandbowls 32
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www.ripjackinn.com @ripjackinn howlermag.com
Huacas Hours: 5 p.m. - 10:30 p.m. Daily Phone: 2653-6296 8729-5640 200 m. west of the Brasilito/Huacas crossroads, Huacas
Delivery Available!
New York Pizzeria is your go-to pizza spot in Guanacaste for an authentic New York style pizza. All pizzas are offered with a size selection of either small, medium or large, depending on your appetite. Add a side order of breadsticks as an appetizer and an ice cream treat for dessert. Dine-in, take-out, or delivery available, with free wifi throughout the restaurant.
Poolside Dining: 3 km. south Located at the Seis Playas Hotel, La Playita Restaurant & of Huacas, Bar is open to the public and road to is known for its friendly and inviting environment. It is the Tamarindo ideal setting for sharing good food and drinks with family Hours and friends, or a romantic Daily 7 a.m. - 9 p.m. dinner poolside while Breakfast 7 a.m. - 9 a.m. enjoying the convenient Phone: 2653 6818 distance to six beaches.
Specialties
Food cooked to your taste con mucho gusto! Friday Night Texas Barbecue
Menu Selections House Special Pizza: Tomato sauce, mozzarella cheese, onion, sweet pepper, mushrooms, pepperoni, and ham. Meat Lover’s Pizza: Tomato sauce, mozzarella cheese, seasoned ground beef, pepperoni, salami, bacon, and ham. Margherita Pizza: Tomato sauce, mozzarella cheese, basil, and fresh tomatoes.
Menu Selections Broken Yolk Sandwich $12
Fried egg, bacon or ham and cheese on toast, served with seasonal fruit
Breakfast Quesadilla $12
Eggs, tomato, onion, sweet pepper and cheese, served with seasonal fruit
Hamburger Pizza: Tomato sauce, mozzarella cheese, onion, fresh tomato, and seasoned ground beef.
BLT La Playita $10
Three Queens Pizza: Tomato sauce, mozzarella cheese, mushrooms, pepperoni, and ham.
Pasta $14
Vegetarian Pizza: Tomato sauce, mozzarella cheese, onion, sweet pepper, mushrooms, pineapple, fresh tomato, broccoli, and olives.
Always a favorite for a light bite to eat: bacon, lettuce and tomato
Build your own pasta bowl, with a mixed salad
Open Grill From $16
Pork tenderloin, chicken breast, ribeye, New York strip, beef tenderloin and catch of the day
Pineapple Flambe $4
Our most popular dessert served hot with vanilla ice cream
www.nypizzeriahuacas.com @nypizzeriahuacas
www.seisplayashotel.com @Seisplayashotel HM HOWLER MAGAZINE | 33
HUACAS
DINING GUIDE
DINING GUIDE
LANGOSTA / TAMARINDO
European-Tico Fusion, Beachfront Restaurant We're nestled in a beautiful tropical garden within the Hotel Capitán and offer a modern, healthy and fresh cuisine. Our chef has created the dishes inspired by his European heritage and the incredible products available in Costa Rica. Using homegrown ingredients from our organic garden, we strive to offer our guests an environmentally friendly menu and an authentic experience. Langosta Call 2653 0075 Daily Noon - 9:30 p.m. Mon & Fri: 7-9 pm Live marimba
Wed: 7-9 pm Avellino
Specialties: Healthy dishes made from scratch with local and fresh products.
Tacos Carne (Lunch) $15 Beef in tortillas with mixed cabbage salad, guacamole and tamarindo sauce The Veggie (Lunch) $15 Grilled portobello, tomato, zucchini chile-almonds-garlic sauce, homemade bun Calamari Crujientes (Snack) $13 Crispy calamari with homemade green pesto and a honey, red onion escabech Tartar Capitán (Dinner) $13 Tuna and mango tartar with capers and a s cilantro, ginger and soy dressing
Nordico is a cozy place that serves always freshly roasted barista specialty coffee, plus healthy food and drinks made with love. We use only the best local products and have great pastries and lots of vegan options. Nordico is spacious, has WiFi/AC and a terrace outside to enjoy the chillin‘ vibes! Tamarindo Call 4700 9521 Daily 7 a.m. - 10 p.m. Happy Hour 4 p.m. - 6 p.m. We sell specialty coffee beans from Costa Rica Açai Bowl ₡4,000 With fruits and homemade granola/almonds Pancakes ₡3,500 Served with strawberries, powdered sugar, syrup, almonds and caramel Edamame Salad ₡4,500 Spinach, arugula, edamame beans, carrots, avocado, apple, feta, dressing, bread Zucchini Shrimp Bowl ₡5,000 Zucchini, shrimp, salad, roasted sesame, ginger, chili, tomato, lemon Angus Cheeseburger ₡6,500 Angus beef,cheddar, lettuce, tomato, salsa, sweet potato fries Seafood Risotto ₡9,500 Risotto rice, shrimps, mussels, squids
Children's Menus available. Ask about our Coffee Workshop every Tuesday, Thursday and Sunday 4 p.m.
Linguini (Dinner) $23 Calamari, jumbo shrimps, mussels, Spanish chorizo, cherry tomatoes, white wine Lomito (Dinner) $28 200 g of tenderloin with a tamarindo sauce over Swiss roesti and vegetables.
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www.hotelcapitansuizo.com @elbarco.beachfront Email: restaurante@hotelcapitansuizo.com
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www.nordicocoffeehouse.com
@nordicocoffeehouse @nordicocoffeehouse info@nordicocoffeehouse.com
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“Yes, our restaurants are open to the public!�
Hours: Sunday - Thursday Noon - 11 p.m. Friday and Saturday Noon - Midnight Happy Hour: 4:30 - 6:30 pm Phone: 2654-4444 ext 3264 Specialties: Nachos, tacos, burgers, salads and sandwiches
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.
Live Music Regularly Scheduled Check schedule and updates on our Facebook page @5oCSBG
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 airconditioned comfort. Hours: Daily 6:30 a.m. - 9:30 p.m. breakfast, lunch, dinner Phone: 2654-4444 ext. 3269 Specialties: Fresh fish, grass-fed beef, international buffets, kid's menu
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 5 p.m. - 11:30 p.m. Pizza only from 9:30 p.m. Phone: 2654-4444 ext. 3268 Specialty artisanal pizza oven; design your own pizzas and pastas
Check out all the other amenities available: www.margaritavillebeachresortcostarica.com HM HOWLER MAGAZINE | 35
PLAYA FLAMINGO
DINING GUIDE
DINING GUIDE
SURFSIDE / POTRERO
Potrero 4702 8689 Open for dinner 4 - 9:30 p.m. Fresh-made desserts! Children's Menu Original menu items at very affordable prices.
LIVE MUSIC! Wed 6:30 p.m.
Sun 7 p.m.
Happy Hour 4 - 6 p.m. Closed Monday. $2 national beers 2 cocktails for $7
Enjoy breakfast, lunch or a sunset dinner at a charming restored beach house only a few meters from the ocean. We're located on the road to Potrero, next to where the boats depart. Enjoy fresh seafood, local favorites and classic American foods ... a tantalizing menu of your favorites. Potrero Call 2654-6203 Daily 8 a.m. - 9 p.m.
Brisket Sandwich $12.50
Live entertainment on Sunday evenings.
20-hour slow hickory smoked Nicaraguan brisket
Pork Steak Dinner $17.99 Hickory smoked pork steak served with BBQ beans and fries
Sushi Menu
1. Chef's Ultimate Pancakes $ 7 2. Grilled Scallops $10 3. Bang Bang Shrimp $10 4. Seafood Platter $19 5. Taste of the Sea $15 6. Grilled Lobster Tails $30 Prices subject to change based on market availability.
with 10 rolls starting at $10.99 up to $12.99 made to order
Angus Burger 1/3 pound $7.90 1/2 pound $8.90 with prime American beef Arroz Con Camarones $14.99 Tico style rice and shrimp served with patacones Red Snapper $17.99 Fried, whole Served with grilled vegetables, rice or fries
Bring your swimsuit! www.fatdaddycr.com @fatdaddyscr @fatdaddyspotrero 36
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Happy Hour Monday through Thursday 4 - 6 p.m. $2 off all draft beer IPA's, Golden Ale, Pilsen, Amber Buy one get one free house mixed drinks 10% off appetizers!
www.beachhousecr.com @TheBeachHouseBarAndRestaurant howlermag.com
LAS CATALINAS
DINING GUIDE Our community is always invited to dine with us! At Casa Chameleon, 4 km north of the Potrero soccer field
www.sentidonorterestaurant.com
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. Hours: Daily 7 a.m. - 10 p.m. No children under 12 years Phone: 2103-1200
RSVP: reservations@sentidonorterestaurant.com
Specialties: Fresh fish, sunset cocktails, "boquitas" menu
MENU SELECTIONS Overnight Oats $8 With almond milk, yogurt, fruit, cashews, local honey or tapa dulce French Toast $12 With sweet plantains and coconut milk cream Knife & Fork Tortillas $14 ChicharrĂłn or vegan huevos rancheros Vegan Omelettes $14 With asparagus, mushrooms and caramelized onion Casa Chameleon Burger $19 Angus burger with arugula, Swiss or goat cheese and aioli Ceviche $14 Fresh fish ceviche, leche de tigre, homemade "chilero" Grilled Chicken Wrap $17 With greens, avocado & tomato, spicy aioli Vegan Bowl $19 Quinoa, mushroom and squash picadillo salad, spicy garbanzo beans Guacamole and Salsa $12 Hearts of palm ceviche, avocado and tomato Grilled Shrimp Salad $25 Fresh shrimp with local fresh vegetables @sentidonorterestaurant Grilled Skirt Steak $32 Skirt steak, chimichurri sauce, salad, french fries Mushroom Lamb Risotto $33 Slowly braised with porcini, portobello and cremini mushrooms Prices shown include 13% tax and 10% service / Prices subject to change
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DINING GUIDE
Tuesday - Sunday 9 a.m. - 1 a.m. Proudly Serving Numu Beer!
Jacรณ downtown, 200 m. south of bridge
@greenroomcafe
Freshly prepared locally sourced ingredients serving relaxed brunch, dinner and cocktails in an urban oasis ... focusing on Costa Rican artisan craft beer. Specialties: Live DJs Tue and Wed Live Music: Thur, Fri and Sat
2643 4425
Check out our online edition, The Dining Guide.
Follow our Facebook group: Discounts Tamarindo Area to discover discounts, specials, s, Holiday events and more from our restaurant family! y!
Potrero 2654 4500
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Join us in the journey! Loving God, loving others... Brasilito
Sunday 10 am English Saturday 6 pm Spanish www.beachcommunitychurchcr.com @beachcommunitychurch.costarica Studies for Youth, Ladies & Men
Thursdays @ 6 p.m. 38
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Potrero 2654 4500
Potrero 2654 4500
Sports TV, concerts, special events! Take out and delivery! Open Daily Hours 11 a.m. - Midnight
www.perlas.pub @perlas.potrero
Apps & Taps
Potrero 2654 4319
New owners, new menu! (formerly Maxwells)
Click the online edition of Howler for more details!
Open Monday - Saturday 11 a.m. - 11 p.m.
New name, new food, still the great service and staff! Tuesday - Sunday 8 a.m. to 9 p.m.. Closed Monday
Angelinas
Reservations recommended www.angelinasplayaflamingo.com angelinaflamingo@gmail.com
Wednesday - Monday 11 a.m. - Midnight Tuesday 4 p.m. - Midnight
Potrero 2654 4500
@costaricasailingcenter
Located on the way to Playa Grande in Matapalo across from the fĂştbol field. Stop in and say hello to Leo, the owner. Amazing food and local pricing. You might not be able to cook at home for less. The locals' place to hang out, always friendly and smiling. Great Local Prices! A full bar with a simple to sumptuous menu. Our mood is a casual, friendly elegance, paying keen attention to detail and service.
The Great Waltini's Restaurant
Bula Bula Hotel Playa Grande Hours 7:30 a.m. - Midnight
www.wil-mart.com @wilmartcostaria
Playa Grande 2249 0387
Potrero Potrero 2654 26544500 4500
Potrero 2654-4300 www.crhemingways.com w reservations@crhemingways.com
Angelinas captures the raw essence of just how intertwined the love of family and fine dining are. Our unique, open-air restaurant is located on the second floor of the +506 2654-4839 Centro Commercial in beautiful Playa Flamingo. Multi-Cuisine, Fine Dining!
Open 7 Days! 5 - 10 p.m. Flamingo
Potrero Potrero 2654 26544500 4500
@apps&taps
Matapalo 8567 2493
2653 0975 www.hotelbulabula.com @hotelbulabulacostarica
Open Daily: Hours 7 a.m. - 10 p.m. Delivery service available! Cruce de Salinitas, Carretera de Matapalo a Playa Grande, Santa Cruz, Guanacaste
Supermarket Harvest Juice Lab Bar Restaurant El Pinto Burned Bar Restaurant The Rincon De Playa Grande Amigo Realty Sales & Rentals Station The Brewing Co. -----------------------------Supermercado Cosechas Juice Lab Bar Restaurante El Pinto Quemado Bar Restaurante El Rincon De Playa Grande Amigo Realty Sales & Rentals Stations Las Olas Brewing Co.
Huacas 2653 6273 Main road, north side midway between Super Compro and intersection to Brasilito
Great quality typical Costa Rican food and ice cold beer! Open Daily Hours 6 a.m. - 9 p.m. HM HOWLER MAGAZINE | 39
10% Discount "Howler" code
Visit Howlermag.com/ CRdining Click on restaurant's logo for their complete menu and information. When visiting, let them know you saw them in the Howler Dining Guide!
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This is a beautiful authentic Guanacaste adventure afternoon activity that we highly recommend. Dine with the stars of Guanacaste on a private ranch. We cater our package to fit your group's needs. Ziplining horseback and so much more! End your adventure with a very delicious BBQ dinner buffet for you & your amigos.
Playa Grande 2653 0975 www.hotelbulabula.com
Flamingo 8869 3999 www.amigostacosybeer.com
Dinner Adventure
Enjoy a casual dining experience with build-your-own tacos and burritos with ice cold beer and margaritas. Choose your guilty pleasure: a taco, burrito, nachos or bowl, then load it up with your choice of one of our mouthwatering meat options and fresh toppings. We serve only the freshest ingredients in our homemade guacamole and various salsas. Beat the heat with our daily 2 for 1 margarita happy hour specials from 2 p.m - 4 p.m.
If you would like any special food requests, please let us know well in advance.
Short estuary trip to dinner at The Great Waltini's in Bula Bula Hotel
Call for more information and reservations: 8869 9765
Taxi is complimentary with dinner reservations.
8 minute drive from Tamarindo 2 km south Villarreal
Open 11 a.m - 9 p.m. Sunday closed.
@blackstallionhills blackstalliononline@yahoo.com
@Amigos Tacos y Beer @amigos_tacosybeer
Three pickup times at Tamarindo Estuary: 5, 5:30 and 6 p.m.
2653 0975 @HotelBulaBulaCostaRica
HM HOWLER MAGAZINE | 41
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