Welcome to tips on how to enjoy Costa Rica, especially during an epidemic, wherever you are. Since our area is the Central Pacific, Jaco beach-Playa Hermosa and Los Sueños areas:
Things to do in your spare time?
1. Look for a copy OR go online for 2 Central Pacific Jaco news-ad mags: the newest one is: https://issuu.com/howler/docs/jacoemag-octuber2020 and the other one we love, made in Jaco https://theswelldealerjaco.com/ . (Irregular publications during the days of Covid!)
2. Very Important: Get a copy of your passport's photo & info page at any of Jaco's local copy stores (libreria's) in Jaco, our favorite is in Jaco Walk, in front of Banco Bac.
3. Walk on the beach, both north end and south end are the best. Check out low tides!!!
4. North end of Jaco at low tide enables you to visit Monkey Beach or on Jaco's south end, learn to Surf or paddle board.
5. Watch the Sunset from Villa Caletas
6. Visit the Turtle Reserve in Playa Hermosa
7. Check out the tide pools north end of Playa Hermosa
8. Zipline in any one of the 5 local area companies
9. Waterfall repelling
10. Horseback riding
11. Visit and hire guide for Carara National Park, short trails-lots of birds
12. Visit the snake-monkey-butterfly farm in Pueblo Nuevo
13. Take a visit to a tropical island, Isla Tortuga, combined with snorkeling
14. Take a trip to Manuel Antonio
15. Go fishing from the Los Suenos Marina, full or half days.
16. Play golf at the Los Suenos 18 hole Iguana Golf Course
17. Take the kids to Jaco’s Central Park, Johannes Danker
18. Take the kids to the Jaco Public Library-Skate board park
19. Go to Jaco’s Air-Conditioned movie theatre (4plex)
20. Go on a hike to Miro’s ocean view ruins up from the gas station
21. Get a real massage
22. Get your teeth cleaned from a great dentist in Jaco.
23. Rent an all terrain vehicle
24. Visit waterfalls in Bijagual or Ocean Ranch Park, or the secret one down Calle Hermosa!
25. Take a yoga class, there are many all over the Central Pacific!.
26. Visit a Gym and work-out
27. Eat-Shop-Eat-Shop
28. Watch Jaco's very interesting parade of characters and tourists, from the sidewalk in front of the new Public House (former owner Los Amigos), Mono Verde, or at our two favorite Gelateria/Ice Cream Parlors: El Barco or Rebelissimo!
29. Walk around the Los Sueños Marina, checking out the views, the incredible fishing boats and yachts, visit great restaurants and one of Costa Rica's finest bakeries!
30. Walk around Jaco and take pictures of all the incredible Artify wall murals!
31. Check out the weekend events at Jaco Walk, formerly offering happy hour specials, live music, and outdoor activities.
32. Ask questions to an attorney regarding your future in Costa Rica!
33. Speak to a Costa Rica real estate expert like Jeff Fisher at CR Beach Investment Real Estate, because after 26 years of living here, he is famous for brutally honest advice. Bookmark this website: www.crbeach.com
9 TIPS ON HOW TO TRAVEL WITH YOUR CHILDREN INTERNATIONALLY!
By A.M. Costa Rica staff, Dec. 10, 2018, http://www.amcostarica.com/morenews5.htm
Millions travel for the holidays to spend time with family and friends, many with children. Of those travelers who responded to a recent Travel Leaders Group Travel Trends survey, 61 percent say they will fly to their holiday vacation destination in the coming weeks and 38 percent will drive. When traveling with children, there are a variety of tips that will help smooth the journey, say expert travel advisors at Travel Leaders – one of North America's largest retail travel agency brands with thousands of travel agents across the United States, Canada and Mexico.
"Domestic and international air travel with children has grown substantially over the past few decades," said Roger E. Block, CTC, President of Travel Leaders Network. "Fortunately, advances in technology, including tablets and mobile phones, are providing greater entertainment options for kids, while on the road. Our travel advisors spend a significant amount of time advising parents on how to integrate entertainment and activity options and many other tips to travel better with their children to ensure a stress-free and enjoyable vacation."
9 easy-to-follow tips that will help vacationers travel better this holiday season when children are along for the journey.
Pack with a plan: Overhead space will be at a premium during the holiday travel season, especially as people bring gifts for friends and family or return home with presents they've received for their children. So, when preparing to pack your bags, it's crucial to check in advance whether your luggage meets the airline's size and weight restrictions for checked baggage and carry-ons, as well as to remember to save space for the extra items that will come home with you.
Children's liquids are an exception to the 3-ounce rule:
The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) allows each passenger one quart-size bag of liquids and gels, including toothpaste, gel deodorant, and lotions. Each item must be 3.4 ounces or less, with medications and certain items for children being the exception. Infant formula, breast milk and juices for infants or toddlers, as well as ice packs to keep them cool, are permitted in higher, yet reasonable quantities through the security checkpoint. However, keep them separate from the items in your one-quart bag. Label medications and carry a copy of the prescription.
Bring multiple copies of important travel documents:
It's a good idea to have color photocopies and digital copies of all important identification documents, including your passport, front and back of credit cards and health insurance information for you and the children. If you're traveling internationally, consider bringing a copy of your child's immunizations. Also have extra ID photos cropped to passport size in case you have to order a replacement at the U.S. Embassy or Consulate. Also pack all paper copies or flash drives in a separate location for extra safe-keeping.
TSA PreCheck is free for children 12 and younger:
When traveling having expedited clearance such as TSA PreCheck or Global Entry usually means you can skip the long lines at security checkpoints and not have to remove outer layers of clothing. Although Children ages 12 and under never have to remove their shoes or lightweight jackets, they also do not need their own TSA Precheck boarding pass since they can go through the TSA Precheck checkpoint with any qualifying adult with whom they are traveling. If traveling internationally, children under 18 do need to apply for their own Global Entry or Nexus status with a consenting parent or legal guardian.
Ease flight wait times:
Dress young children in comfortable clothing, even consider footie pajamas and no shoes. If your child is young enough, give your child a ride to the checkpoint and gate in a stroller. Though they will have to walk through or be carried through security, the stroller ride there helps to keep them in tow, and your stress low. You'll also save money as you can check the stroller or car seat at the gate, often bypassing the fees you'd pay at the ticket counter.
Work with a travel advisor if planning to visit a theme park:
Winter, especially the days surrounding Christmas week, is a busy time to visit any park. Bear in mind that lines are shorter first thing in the morning or late at night.
Hit the high seas for family adventure:
A cruise is a great way to vacation with family and friends without the stress of holiday meal prep, clean up and entertaining. To feel relaxed without overexerting yourself, skip an excursion at a port or two. If you take time to enjoy the ship while fewer people are onboard, you will avoid some of the hustle and bustle. When you do take a shore excursion, consider opting for the children to stay with the childcare service for one of your experiences. But don't leave the children out of all excursions. They will also enjoy the adventure and culture of other lands and the bonding time with Mom or Dad.
Relax at an all-inclusive resort:
Escaping the cold weather by traveling with the family to someplace warm and tropical can be a relaxing way to spend the holidays, especially when it is spent at a family-friendly, all-inclusive resort. Whether you land, the convenience and value that comes without always pulling out your wallet can make winter travel less stressful. There are many excellent choices and a travel advisor can help you select the one that best suits your family, such as ones that offer features ranging from kids' clubs, water parks and family-themed entertainment to spas for the adults.
Road Trips with Kids:
Long road trips with children allow for many options, as well as the ubiquitous "Are we there yet?" refrain. Pack a kiddie bag that can stay within arms reach of young children who may want to grab their favorite book, electronic device, sippy cup or snack pack. Remember to also pack wet wipes and paper towels for easy clean up. Play music over the car radio that the child can enjoy as a family sing-along in addition to an option of personal music time with their own headphones or video player. Children also love the attention if a parent climbs into the back seat with them occasionally, if space allows. I Spy and tic tac toe are classic games children will enjoy. Finally, be sure to build in time to take breaks to enjoy scenic overlooks or small towns or other attractions you may pass along the way.
Tourism Doesn't Come Cheap but Costa Rica
Comes Awfully Close DUE TO COVID-19 MANY EVENTS HAVE BEEN CANCELLED!
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So there you are: vacationing in Costa Rica -- ONE of, if not THE most bio-diverse location on Earth and home to panoramic beaches, rainforests and waterfalls, not to mention a seemingly endless variety of flora and fauna and you're looking for things to do in Costa Rica that are FREE?
Sure thing! Excluding the obvious free activities like hiking, walking on the beach and sunbathing, there ARE free things to do in Costa Rica. It depends on where you go and at what time of the year and above all HOW you want to spend your time. Having established that, here are some free things to do in Costa Rica.
I. Festivals: DUE TO COVID-19 MANY EVENTS HAVE BEEN CANCELLED!
Let it not be said that in Costa Rica the locals don't know how to party! Every month during the year there is at least one festival being held and like all great festivals they are FREE! Within the context of the festival you're going to have to pay for food and drink - but the music, dancing and fireworks that are invariably a big part of every festival in Costa Rica is free-of-charge. And as we all know -- FREE is a good thing. Here are some noteworthy free festivals held throughout the year. Take your pick and schedule your vacation accordingly:
JANUARY:
- Palmares Civic Fiestas - Lots of culture here: folk dances, music, amusements and bullfighting.
- Alajuelita Fiestas - Honoring the Black Christ of Esquipulas, Alajuelita's Patron Saint..
- Santa Cruz Fiestas - dancing, marimbas and bullfighting.
FEBRUARY:
- San Isidro del General Fiestas - annual agricultural and industrial fairs with bullfights and a flower exhibition.
- Fiesta of the Diablitos - annual recreation of the fight between Indians and the Spanish.
- Puntarenas Carnival - Masks, music and plenty of sangria.
MARCH:
- Escazu - Dia de los Boyeros (Oxcart Driver's Day) - parade of oxcarts and the blessing of the animals and crops by local priests. Not to be missed - especially if you're a farmer.
- National Orchid Show - more flowers than you can shake a stick at.
APRIL:
- Holy Week - processions galore in all parts of country.
- Juan Santamaría Day - Commemorating Costa Rica's national hero -- a simple barefoot soldier who gave his life in the battle against William Walker's troops in 1856.
MAY:
- Puerto Limon - picnics, music and dancing. What more is there to life?
- Escazu - San Isidro Labrador's Day - another celebration honouring the Patron Saint of farmers
- Corpus Christi Day - May 29 - Religious celebration.
JUNE:
- Saints Peter & Paul Day - June 29 - More religion!
JULY:
- Puntarenas - Virgin of The Sea - fishing boat regatta which honors Puntarenas' Patron Saint, La Virgen del Monte Carmelo. Plenty of parades, dances and fireworks.
- Guanacaste Day - you guessed it: folk dances, bullfights, and music.
- Alajuela - Los Mangos Festival
AUGUST:
- Cartago - Virgin of Los Angeles - Honors Costa Rica's Patron Saint , "La Negrita" with nationwide
pilgrimage and religious processions to the Basilica in Cartago.
SEPTEMBER:
Costa Rica's Independence Day is September 15th: witness the Freedom Torch as it is brought from Nicaragua by student relay runners the day before. Thrill to local "lantern parades" where kids carry home-made "faroles".
OCTOBER:
- Puerto Limon - Limon Carnival - Columbus Day is celebrated in style in the port city with week-long street dances, parades and music.
- Upala Corn Festival, Corn Queen contest.
- Tres Rios Virgen del Pilar's Day - celebrating yet another Patron Saint with parades and costumes made entirely of corn husks, grain, and silks.
NOVEMBER:
- All Souls day - Nov 2 - Day of the Dead.
- Central Valley Coffee picking contest, music and dancing CANCELLED
- International Arts Festival, plays, street theatre and other entertainment. MAINLY ONLINE!~
DECEMBER: DUE TO COVID-19 MANY EVENTS HAVE BEEN CANCELLED!
- Fiesta de los Negritos - very big event held in the Indian village of Boruca, and ancient Indian ritual is combined with honoring the Virgin of the Immaculate Conception.
- Nicoya Fiesta de la Yeguita - Processions, bullfights, fireworks, concerts.
- Festejos Populares (Year-end Festivals) - Dec 25-31
- Tope - Annual horse parade. Careful where you step!
- Carnival - Head to downtown San Jose for the biggest block party of the year!
II. Free Museums
- The Museo de Oro Precolombino (Museum of Precolumbian gold) is located under the Plaza de la
Cultura in downtown San Jose. This impressive underground building houses the exhibit that creates a mysterious and dark background for the gleaming beauty of the golden pieces, which seem to float because they're suspended by transparent strings.The Museo de Moneda, or the Coin Museum, is located in the
same building, and its exhibit includes information on coins, as well as interesting samples. And it's FREE.
- The Museo de Jade, or the Jade Museum.o Lcated in the INS building in downtown (in the National Insurance building. The exhibit in this museum is the largest American jade collection in the world. The collection is extremely valuable because of the rarity of the mineral and of the religious and historical significance that it has for the Indian population and for the Costa Ricans in general. Like the golden pieces, the jade artifacts also depict animal shapes.
- The Museo de Ciencias Naturales La Salle (Natural science) and the small Entomology Museum in the University of Costa Rica. The first museum is located in La Sabana and presents a taxidermy collection of various animals and a preserved fish and reptile exhibit. The small university museum houses a large collection of insects of Central and South America, including beautiful butterflies.
III. Free Markets
The most popular market in Costa Rica is Mercado Central (Market Central) and has to be seen to be believed. A variety of craft work , leatherwork and crafts not to mention some of the cheapest meals in San Jose town. Come to think of it, almost every town of any size in Costa Rica has a mercado central, where
in addition to produce, fruits and meat, there are booths selling everyday items.
IV. Other Free activities
The Hummingbird gallery:
Next to the Monteverde Reserve entrance. Feeders outside attract dozens of hummingbirds representing about 7 species.
V. Art & Artisans
Traditional Costa Rican artisans in Guaitíl hand throw Chorotega pottery while you watch, and the wood carvers of Sarchí transform rainforest hardwoods into every imaginable shape. Drums, baskets, textiles, and pre-Columbian reproductions are just a few of the things you'll want to take home with you.
VI. Bird Watching
Botaurus pinnatus, Tigrisoma fasciatum, Tigrisoma mexicanum, Egretta thula, Egretta caerulea, Agamia agami, Cochlearius cochlearius- and that's just the most common Aredeidae. Avid birders know that Costa Rica is one of the top spots in the world, but you don't have to spend hours with binoculars glued to your
eyes to see fascinating bird life in Costa Rica. Buy an Hermosa Beach Bungalow, and see hundreds of birds from your patio.
VII. Waterfalls & River Hiking
The number of spectacular waterfalls in Costa Rica reflects rainfall averages of over 20 feet a year and the sheer drops of some of the mountain ranges. Some are visible from paved roads as you travel from place to place, but others require significant effort to reach. The surest way to find a falls with a deserted swimming hole at the bottom is to start walking upstream.
So there you have it: some truly fun things to do that are free! You're no doubt going to discover many more free things to do and see once you set foot in beautiful Costa Rica. Follow your instincts and not your pocket book and you'll come up with your own list of free activities in Costa Rica!
RELIGIOUS SERVICES
Anglican Episcopal Church: Ca. 3/5, Av. 4, north side of Colegio de Señoritas, 2222-1560,ibuenpastor@gmail.com.
B’nei Israel: La Sabana, 800 m west of Pops, 2231-5243, congbnei@racsa.co.cr.
Baha’i Faith Firesides: La Uruca, 2249-1231.
Beach Community Church: Sun., 10 a.m., Brasilito, Guanacaste, next to Country Day School, 2653-4437,info@beachcommunitychurch.com.
Chabad Lubavitch: Rohrmoser, in front of Antojitos; Escazú, 50 m west of Banco General, 2296-6565,hspalter@jabadcr.com.
Christian Center: San Roque, Grecia, 2494-0970, laterrazagrecia@msn.com.
Church of Christ: Quircot, Cartago, 8839-4331.
Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints: Curridabat, Edificio Trébol, 500 m south of Pops, 2224-9401,2015218@ldschurch.org.
Costa Rican Lutheran Church: Barrio El Carmen, San José, 600 m southeast of San Cayetano Church, 2227-8080, comunicacion@ilco.cr.
Episcopal Diocese of Costa Rica: Zapote, 75 m north of Plaza Cemaco, 2225-0209,anglicancr@racsa.co.cr.
Escazú Christian Fellowship: Interdenominational, Sun., 5 p.m., International Baptist Church, Guachipelín, Escazú, 8395-9653, www.ecfcr.net.
Foursquare Church: Monthly English-language worship service, Sunday school, Manuel Antonio, 8338-4655, 8702-0807, 8390-0591.
Guadalupe Missionary Baptist Temple: Guadalupe, 300 m east of cemetery, 2222-4757,kerawa@racsa.co.cr.
Hare Krishna Center Gaudiya Math: Cuesta de Núñez, #1331, Av. 1, Ca. 15/17, 2256-8650,haribol@racsa.co.cr.
Harvest Vineyard Church: Sabana Oeste, Lexicon Library, 200 m north, 100 m east, 75 m north of UCIMED, 2291-4383, info@harvestvineyard.info.
JACO HORIZON CHURCH NEW LOCATION... GOOGLE IT
JACO ALSO HAS A SECOND BILINGUAL CHURCH: RADICAL CHURCH
International Baptist Church: Guachipelín, Escazú, west of Multiplaza, north side of highway, 2215-2117,paul_dina@hotmail.com.
Jehovah’s Witnesses: La Asunción, Belén, across from Avis, 8982-3381.
Mass for hearing-impaired: With translation in Costa Rican sign language, Sat., 6 p.m., Immaculate Conception Church, Heredia.
Muslim Center: Guadalupe, Calle Blancos-Montelimar, 100 m east, 80 m south of Escuela Santa Mónica, 2240-4872, omarhemeda@hotmail.com.
Nondenominational Christian Church: Sun., 8:30 a.m., El Empalme, San Ramón, Pastor James Rush, 8385-6403, trandall360@gmail.com.
Quaker Meeting: Sun., 11 a.m., Friends Peace Center, San José, Ca. 15, Av. 6/8; Monteverde School, Monteverde, 2222-1400, friends@racsa.co.cr.
Roman Catholic Mass: Sat., 4 p.m., cathedral, San José, Ca. Ctrl./1, Av. 2/4, 2221-3820.
San Pedro Christian Fellowship: San Pedro, Centro Comercial Calle Real, 2267-6038,sleves@racsa.co.cr.
St. Mary’s Roman Catholic Chapel: Mass, Sun., 4 p.m., Hotel Ramada Plaza Herradura, Cariari, 2209-9800.
Union Church: San Rafael, Moravia, 100 m east, 400 m north, 100 m west of Lincoln School, 2235-6709,www.iglesiaunion.net.
Zen Buddhism: Casa Zen, Santo Domingo, Heredia, 2244-3532, www.casazen.org.
TAKE A CLASS -- OLD LIST, MAYBE SOME NUMBERS STILL WORK
Acting: Carpe Diem Theater, Alajuela, 8810-3892; Fundación Skené, Barrio González Lahman, basic acting, 2258-7236, 2256-6978, www.fundaskene.org; Giratablas Theater, Los Yoses, theater for kids, teens and adults, 2253-6001.
Agility: For dogs and owners, weekends, Pets’ Paradise, La Guácima, Alajuela, 8381-8285, 8393-4904.
Agro-ecotourism: Also tropical ecology, Costa Rican natural history, organoponics, labyrinths and mazes, Barrio Francisco Peralta, 8819-3173, grupoloscongos@gmail.com.
Art: Casa del Artista, Guadalupe, all ages, 2234-1233, 2281-0693, escuelacasadelartista@ice.co.cr; Fundación Skené, Barrio González Lahman, 2258-7236, 2256-6978, www.fundaskene.org; Galería Valanti, Barrio Escalante, painting, drawing, art appreciation, 2253-1659, www.galeriavalanti.com.
Arts: Art, literature, music and theater courses, talks and workshops at CCCN, Barrio Dent and La Sabana, by the Institute for Study of the Arts (INESA), 2290-5113, www.inesacr.org.
Baby Massage: For parents with babies older than 2 months, Mon.-Tues., Desarrollando Mentes, Escazú, 2289-4586, www.desarrollandomentes.com.
Badminton: Academia de Bádminton Costa Rica, San Pedro, classes for all ages, group play for experienced players, 8897-5313, 8990-9295, sharon@badmintoncr.com, www.badmintoncr.com.
Belly Dancing: Led by Jerusa Alvarado, basics, 8876-6184, jerusaalvarado@gmail.com.
Classes: Art, tai chi, qigong, opera, food, Florencia Culture Center, Plaza Florencia, 200 m north of BAC San José, road to Guachipelín, Escazú, 2289-3557, www.culturaflorenciacr.com.
Classes at Terapiarte: Portuguese, English, drawing, painting, cartoon, graphic design, clay modeling, yoga, belly dancing, popular dance, guitar, violin, Alajuela, 50 m north of Palí, Cristo Rey, 2441-0290, 8970-5026.
Cooking: Boc Art Gourmet Shop and Cooking School, Escazú, Plaza Itskatzú, 2228-0804, and Guadalupe, 300 m south of La Católica Hospital, 2225-1013; Brunetti, Santo Domingo de Heredia, 2268-9423; Culinary Trainer School, San José, Av. 4, across from Sala Garbo, 2222-0361, www.ctscostarica.com; Estudio Gastronómico Mucho Gusto, Los Yoses, 2234-0840, www.revistamuchogusto.com; Radha’s Kitchen, Escazú, gourmet vegetarian and vegan cooking, 2288-3294, www.radhaskitchen.org.
Dance: 29/4, ballet, jazz, tap, flamenco, hip-hop, break dancing, cardio dance, yoga, Sabanilla, Montes de Oca, veintinueve.cuatro@gmail.com; Academia Danza O, Middle Eastern, yoga, ballet, tap for girls, La Uruca, 2296-2022; Al Andalus, flamenco, tango, Sabanilla, 2225-2793, 8342-4083; Baila SAP, traditional, hip-hop, jazz, rumba, tango, yoga, theater, aerobics, Guadalupe, Moravia, Desamparados, Rohrmoser, San Ramón, Grecia, Palmares, Liberia, 2224-0834, 2224-6364; Dance Force Center, ballet, flamenco, tango, jazz, ballroom, Pavas, 2290-2271; Danza Abend, Calle Blancos, 2236-0700; Escuela de Ballet Piruetas Dance Studio, ballet, Jewish dance, flamenco, contemporary, all ages, Heredia, 2260-1549; Estudio Danza Libre, ballet, contemporary, jazz, Latin, hip-hop, fitness, all levels and ages, Guadalupe, 2253-8770, 8994-1124; Signos Teatro Danza, aerial dance, contemporary ballet, dance theater, yoga, break dancing, hip-hop, Lourdes de Montes de Oca, 2234-5584, 8714-5128, signosteatrodanza@gmail.com; Taller Nacional de Danza, ballet, belly dancing, flamenco, contemporary, jazz, tango, Indian, Afro-Caribbean, break dancing, hip-hop, all ages, Barrio Escalante, 2223-3319, 8776-1244, infoaatnd@gmail.com; Zíngari, flamenco, Santa Ana, 2282-1127, 8833-4260, www.flamencozingari.com.
Gardening: Centro Nacional de Jardinería Corazón Verde, Pinares de Curridabat, 2271-0303, 2271-1919,www.corazonverdecr.com.
Karate: Kids, daily, 5-6 p.m.; adults, Mon., Wed., Fri., 6:30-8 p.m., and Tues., Thurs., 7-8:30 p.m., Heredia, opposite Mercedes Norte cemetery, 8816-8387.
Mandarin Chinese: Liu-Yi Centro de Idioma Chino-Mandarín, Heredia, San Joaquín de Flores, San José, 8878-9875, www.liuyicr.com.
Martial Arts: Pavas, Rohrmoser, Parque La Amistad, 8873-3859, 8873-4265, 2232-9801, www.bushido-jo.com.
Meditation: Inner Balance, Escazú, Mediplaza, 500 m south of Multiplaza, 2201-7201, ext. 2,natalie@innerbalance.co.cr.
Music: Café Liberia, Guanacaste, singing, piano, electric and acoustic guitar, 2665-1660, 8339-0492; Centro Artístico Omar Arroyo, Moravia, 2297-2559; Editus Arts Academy, Barrio Escalante, 2253-5135, 2234-0491,www.edituscr.com; Escazú Music Academy, 2228-9327, www.escazumusic.com; Estudio Arte Heredia, singing, guitar, clarinet, sax, flute, piano, music theory, Barrio María Auxiliadora, Heredia, 2263-4184, 8704-9775; School of Rock, Sabana Sur, info@clandestina.cr, 8840-7204.
Pilates: Classes at your home given by certified instructor Michael Miller, all levels, contact Hernán Sain, 8861-9336, hersain@gmail.com, www.casapilates.com.
Qigong and Tai Chi: San Pedro, Sabanilla, 2234-2680, 8715-0573, chiralu@gmail.com.
Robotics: Ages 6-12, Abacus Institute, Edificio Colón, Paseo Colón, 2222-1446,www.abacusinstitute.net/robotica; Laboratorio de Robótica, Escazú and Pinares de Curridabat, 8880-2424,pattyct@racsa.co.cr.
Satsangs: Sat Yoga Institute, Escazú, 2288-3294.
Synchronized Swimming: Girls, Mon.-Fri., 4-6 p.m., La Salle School, Sabana Sur, 2291-0147, 8373-4005.
Tai Chi: Bambú Dorado, Escazú, San Pedro, adults and seniors, 2225-4411, 8829-0237,www.muevete.co.cr; Heredia, adults and seniors, International Taoist Tai Chi Society methods, 2263-5075,costarica@taoist.org.
Wine Seminars: Bodega05, HA&COM Bebidas del Mundo, Llorente de Tibás, 2297-1005.
Yoga: Bamboo YogaPlay, Dominical, 2787-0229, www.bambooyogaplay.com; Café Liberia, Liberia, Guanacaste, Mon. and Thurs., 7 p.m., Sat., 6 p.m., 2665-1660; Desarrollando Mentes, Escazú, for kids ages 3-5, Tues.-Wed., 3:30-5:30 p.m., 2289-4586, info@desarrollandomentes.com; Fit Yogis, Escazú, yoga for kids, 2228-9141, www.fityogis.net; Gayatree Yoga Center, Sabanilla, yin and Nidra yoga, 8848-2347,sofiyoga@yahoo.com; Jardín de Yoga Kapoli, San Rafael, Escazú, 2228-1350, 8325-2397; Rincón Natura Spa, Sabana Sur, 2291-4505; Sat Yoga Institute, San Rafael, Escazú, 2288-3294,www.satyogainstitute.org; Turya Yoga Studio, Escazú, 2289-7524, 8887-8835, janine@turya.info.
2020 CIA INFORMATION ON COSTA RICA:
https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/geos/cs.html
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Population:This entry gives an estimate from the US Bureau of the Census based on statistics from population censuses, vital statistics registration systems, or sample surveys pertaining to the recent past and on assumptions about future trends. The total population presents one overall measure of the potential impact of the country on the world and within its region. Note: Starting with the 1993 Factbook, demographic estimates for some countries (mostly African) have explicitly taken into account t . . . more
5,097,988 (July 2020 est.)
country comparison to the world: 123
Nationality:This entry provides the identifying terms for citizens - noun and adjective.
noun: Costa Rican(s)
adjective: Costa Rican
Ethnic groups:This entry provides an ordered listing of ethnic groups starting with the largest and normally includes the percent of total population.
white or mestizo 83.6%, mulatto 6.7%, indigenous 2.4%, black of African descent 1.1%, other 1.1%, none 2.9%, unspecified 2.2% (2011 est.)
Languages:This entry provides a listing of languages spoken in each country and specifies any that are official national or regional languages. When data is available, the languages spoken in each country are broken down according to the percent of the total population speaking each language as a first language. For those countries without available data, languages are listed in rank order based on prevalence, starting with the most-spoken language.
Spanish (official), English
Religions:This entry is an ordered listing of religions by adherents starting with the largest group and sometimes includes the percent of total population. The core characteristics and beliefs of the world's major religions are described below. Baha'i - Founded by Mirza Husayn-Ali (known as Baha'u'llah) in Iran in 1852, Baha'i faith emphasizes monotheism and believes in one eternal transcendent God. Its guiding focus is to encourage the unity of all peoples on the earth so that justice and peace m . . . more
Roman Catholic 71.8%, Evangelical and Pentecostal 12.3%, other Protestant 2.6%, Jehovah's Witness 0.5%, other 2.4%, none 10.4% (2016 est.)
Demographic profile:This entry describes a country’s key demographic features and trends and how they vary among regional, ethnic, and socioeconomic sub-populations. Some of the topics addressed are population age structure, fertility, health, mortality, poverty, education, and migration.

Costa Rica's political stability, high standard of living, and well-developed social benefits system set it apart from its Central American neighbors. Through the government's sustained social spending - almost 20% of GDP annually - Costa Rica has made tremendous progress toward achieving its goal of providing universal access to education, healthcare, clean water, sanitation, and electricity. Since the 1970s, expansion of these services has led to a rapid decline in infant mortality, an increase in life expectancy at birth, and a sharp decrease in the birth rate. The average number of children born per women has fallen from about 7 in the 1960s to 3.5 in the early 1980s to below replacement level today. Costa Rica's poverty rate is lower than in most Latin American countries, but it has stalled at around 20% for almost two decades.
Costa Rica is a popular regional immigration destination because of its job opportunities and social programs. Almost 9% of the population is foreign-born, with Nicaraguans comprising nearly three-quarters of the foreign population. Many Nicaraguans who perform unskilled seasonal labor enter Costa Rica illegally or overstay their visas, which continues to be a source of tension. Less than 3% of Costa Rica's population lives abroad. The overwhelming majority of expatriates have settled in the United States after completing a university degree or in order to work in a highly skilled field.
Age structure:This entry provides the distribution of the population according to age. Information is included by sex and age group as follows: 0-14 years (children), 15-24 years (early working age), 25-54 years (prime working age), 55-64 years (mature working age), 65 years and over (elderly). The age structure of a population affects a nation's key socioeconomic issues. Countries with young populations (high percentage under age 15) need to invest more in schools, while countries with older population . . . more
0-14 years: 22.08% (male 575,731/female 549,802)
15-24 years: 15.19% (male 395,202/female 379,277)
25-54 years: 43.98% (male 1,130,387/female 1,111,791)
55-64 years: 9.99% (male 247,267/female 261,847)
65 years and over: 8.76% (male 205,463/female 241,221) (2020 est.)
population pyramid: 
Dependency ratios:Dependency ratios are a measure of the age structure of a population. They relate the number of individuals that are likely to be economically "dependent" on the support of others. Dependency ratios contrast the ratio of youths (ages 0-14) and the elderly (ages 65+) to the number of those in the working-age group (ages 15-64). Changes in the dependency ratio provide an indication of potential social support requirements resulting from changes in population age structures. As fertility leve . . . more
total dependency ratio: 45.1
youth dependency ratio: 30.2
elderly dependency ratio: 14.9
potential support ratio: 6.7 (2020 est.)
Median age:This entry is the age that divides a population into two numerically equal groups; that is, half the people are younger than this age and half are older. It is a single index that summarizes the age distribution of a population. Currently, the median age ranges from a low of about 15 in Niger and Uganda to 40 or more in several European countries and Japan. See the entry for "Age structure" for the importance of a young versus an older age structure and, by implication, a low versus a high . . . more
Population growth rate:The average annual percent change in the population, resulting from a surplus (or deficit) of births over deaths and the balance of migrants entering and leaving a country. The rate may be positive or negative. The growth rate is a factor in determining how great a burden would be imposed on a country by the changing needs of its people for infrastructure (e.g., schools, hospitals, housing, roads), resources (e.g., food, water, electricity), and jobs. Rapid population growth can be seen as . . . more
1.08% (2020 est.)
country comparison to the world: 99
Birth rate:This entry gives the average annual number of births during a year per 1,000 persons in the population at midyear; also known as crude birth rate. The birth rate is usually the dominant factor in determining the rate of population growth. It depends on both the level of fertility and the age structure of the population.
14.8 births/1,000 population (2020 est.)
country comparison to the world: 122
Death rate:This entry gives the average annual number of deaths during a year per 1,000 population at midyear; also known as crude death rate. The death rate, while only a rough indicator of the mortality situation in a country, accurately indicates the current mortality impact on population growth. This indicator is significantly affected by age distribution, and most countries will eventually show a rise in the overall death rate, in spite of continued decline in mortality at all ages, as declining . . . more
4.9 deaths/1,000 population (2020 est.)
country comparison to the world: 198
Net migration rate:This entry includes the figure for the difference between the number of persons entering and leaving a country during the year per 1,000 persons (based on midyear population). An excess of persons entering the country is referred to as net immigration (e.g., 3.56 migrants/1,000 population); an excess of persons leaving the country as net emigration (e.g., -9.26 migrants/1,000 population). The net migration rate indicates the contribution of migration to the overall level of population chan . . . more
0.8 migrant(s)/1,000 population (2020 est.)
country comparison to the world: 63
Population distribution:This entry provides a summary description of the population dispersion within a country. While it may suggest population density, it does not provide density figures.
roughly half of the nation's population resides in urban areas; the capital of San Jose is the largest city and home to approximately one-fifth of the population
Urbanization:This entry provides two measures of the degree of urbanization of a population. The first, urban population, describes the percentage of the total population living in urban areas, as defined by the country. The second, rate of urbanization, describes the projected average rate of change of the size of the urban population over the given period of time. It is possible for a country with a 100% urban population to still display a change in the rate of urbanization (up or down). For example . . . more
urban population: 80.8% of total population (2020)
rate of urbanization: 1.5% annual rate of change (2015-20 est.)
Major urban areas - population:This entry provides the population of the capital and up to six major cities defined as urban agglomerations with populations of at least 750,000 people. An urban agglomeration is defined as comprising the city or town proper and also the suburban fringe or thickly settled territory lying outside of, but adjacent to, the boundaries of the city. For smaller countries, lacking urban centers of 750,000 or more, only the population of the capital is presented.
1.400 million SAN JOSE (capital) (2020)
Sex ratio:This entry includes the number of males for each female in five age groups - at birth, under 15 years, 15-64 years, 65 years and over, and for the total population. Sex ratio at birth has recently emerged as an indicator of certain kinds of sex discrimination in some countries. For instance, high sex ratios at birth in some Asian countries are now attributed to sex-selective abortion and infanticide due to a strong preference for sons. This will affect future marriage patterns and fertilit . . . more
at birth: 1.05 male(s)/female
0-14 years: 1.05 male(s)/female
15-24 years: 1.04 male(s)/female
25-54 years: 1.02 male(s)/female
55-64 years: 0.94 male(s)/female
65 years and over: 0.85 male(s)/female
total population: 1 male(s)/female (2020 est.)
Maternal mortality rate:The maternal mortality rate (MMR) is the annual number of female deaths per 100,000 live births from any cause related to or aggravated by pregnancy or its management (excluding accidental or incidental causes). The MMR includes deaths during pregnancy, childbirth, or within 42 days of termination of pregnancy, irrespective of the duration and site of the pregnancy, for a specified year.
27 deaths/100,000 live births (2017 est.)
country comparison to the world: 116
Infant mortality rate:This entry gives the number of deaths of infants under one year old in a given year per 1,000 live births in the same year. This rate is often used as an indicator of the level of health in a country.
total: 7.5 deaths/1,000 live births
male: 8.2 deaths/1,000 live births
female: 6.7 deaths/1,000 live births (2020 est.)
country comparison to the world: 153
Life expectancy at birth:This entry contains the average number of years to be lived by a group of people born in the same year, if mortality at each age remains constant in the future. Life expectancy at birth is also a measure of overall quality of life in a country and summarizes the mortality at all ages. It can also be thought of as indicating the potential return on investment in human capital and is necessary for the calculation of various actuarial measures.
total population: 79.2 years
male: 76.5 years
female: 82 years (2020 est.)
country comparison to the world: 58
Total fertility rate:This entry gives a figure for the average number of children that would be born per woman if all women lived to the end of their childbearing years and bore children according to a given fertility rate at each age. The total fertility rate (TFR) is a more direct measure of the level of fertility than the crude birth rate, since it refers to births per woman. This indicator shows the potential for population change in the country. A rate of two children per woman is considered the replaceme . . . more
1.87 children born/woman (2020 est.)
country comparison to the world: 136
Contraceptive prevalence rate:This field gives the percent of women of reproductive age (15-49) who are married or in union and are using, or whose sexual partner is using, a method of contraception according to the date of the most recent available data. The contraceptive prevalence rate is an indicator of health services, development, and women’s empowerment. It is also useful in understanding, past, present, and future fertility trends, especially in developing countries.

Drinking water source:This entry provides information about access to improved or unimproved drinking water sources available to segments of the population of a country. Improved drinking water - use of any of the following sources: piped water into dwelling, yard, or plot; public tap or standpipe; tubewell or borehole; protected dug well; protected spring; or rainwater collection. Unimproved drinking water - use of any of the following sources: unprotected dug well; unprotected spring; cart with small tank or . . . more
improved:
urban: 99.6% of population
rural: 91.9% of population
total: 97.8% of population
unimproved:
urban: 0.4% of population
rural: 8.1% of population
total: 2.2% of population (2015 est.)
Current Health Expenditure:Current Health Expenditure (CHE) describes the share of spending on health in each country relative to the size of its economy. It includes expenditures corresponding to the final consumption of health care goods and services and excludes investment, exports, and intermediate consumption. CHE shows the importance of the health sector in the economy and indicates the priority given to health in monetary terms. Note: Current Health Expenditure replaces the former Health Expenditures field . . . more

Physicians density:This entry gives the number of medical doctors (physicians), including generalist and specialist medical practitioners, per 1,000 of the population. Medical doctors are defined as doctors that study, diagnose, treat, and prevent illness, disease, injury, and other physical and mental impairments in humans through the application of modern medicine. They also plan, supervise, and evaluate care and treatment plans by other health care providers. The World Health Organization estimates that f . . . more
1.15 physicians/1,000 population (2013)
Hospital bed density:This entry provides the number of hospital beds per 1,000 people; it serves as a general measure of inpatient service availability. Hospital beds include inpatient beds available in public, private, general, and specialized hospitals and rehabilitation centers. In most cases, beds for both acute and chronic care are included. Because the level of inpatient services required for individual countries depends on several factors - such as demographic issues and the burden of disease - there is . . . more
1.1 beds/1,000 population (2014)
Sanitation facility access:This entry provides information about access to improved or unimproved sanitation facilities available to segments of the population of a country. Improved sanitation - use of any of the following facilities: flush or pour-flush to a piped sewer system, septic tank or pit latrine; ventilated improved pit (VIP) latrine; pit latrine with slab; or a composting toilet. Unimproved sanitation - use of any of the following facilities: flush or pour-flush not piped to a sewer system, septic tank . . . more
improved:
urban: 95.2% of population (2015 est.)
rural: 92.3% of population (2015 est.)
total: 94.5% of population (2015 est.)
unimproved:
urban: 4.8% of population (2015 est.)
rural: 7.7% of population (2015 est.)
total: 5.5% of population (2015 est.)
HIV/AIDS - adult prevalence rate:This entry gives an estimate of the percentage of adults (aged 15-49) living with HIV/AIDS. The adult prevalence rate is calculated by dividing the estimated number of adults living with HIV/AIDS at yearend by the total adult population at yearend.
0.4% (2018 est.)
country comparison to the world: 76
HIV/AIDS - people living with HIV/AIDS:This entry gives an estimate of all people (adults and children) alive at yearend with HIV infection, whether or not they have developed symptoms of AIDS.
15,000 (2018 est.)
country comparison to the world: 90
HIV/AIDS - deaths:This entry gives an estimate of the number of adults and children who died of AIDS during a given calendar year.
Major infectious diseases:This entry lists major infectious diseases likely to be encountered in countries where the risk of such diseases is assessed to be very high as compared to the United States. These infectious diseases represent risks to US government personnel traveling to the specified country for a period of less than three years. The degree of risk is assessed by considering the foreign nature of these infectious diseases, their severity, and the probability of being affected by the diseases present. Th . . . more
degree of risk: intermediate (2020)
food or waterborne diseases: bacterial diarrhea
vectorborne diseases: dengue fever
Obesity - adult prevalence rate:This entry gives the percent of a country's population considered to be obese. Obesity is defined as an adult having a Body Mass Index (BMI) greater to or equal to 30.0. BMI is calculated by taking a person's weight in kg and dividing it by the person's squared height in meters.
25.7% (2016)
country comparison to the world: 48
Children under the age of 5 years underweight:This entry gives the percent of children under five considered to be underweight. Underweight means weight-for-age is approximately 2 kg below for standard at age one, 3 kg below standard for ages two and three, and 4 kg below standard for ages four and five. This statistic is an indicator of the nutritional status of a community. Children who suffer from growth retardation as a result of poor diets and/or recurrent infections tend to have a greater risk of suffering illness and death.
7.4% of GDP (2017)
country comparison to the world: 10
Literacy:This entry includes a definition of literacy and UNESCO's percentage estimates for populations aged 15 years and over, including total population, males, and females. There are no universal definitions and standards of literacy. Unless otherwise specified, all rates are based on the most common definition - the ability to read and write at a specified age. Detailing the standards that individual countries use to assess the ability to read and write is beyond the scope of the Factbook. Info . . . more
definition: age 15 and over can read and write
total population: 97.9%
male: 97.8%
female: 97.9% (2018)
School life expectancy (primary to tertiary education):School life expectancy (SLE) is the total number of years of schooling (primary to tertiary) that a child can expect to receive, assuming that the probability of his or her being enrolled in school at any particular future age is equal to the current enrollment ratio at that age. Caution must be maintained when utilizing this indicator in international comparisons. For example, a year or grade completed in one country is not necessarily the same in terms of educational content or qualit . . . more
total: 15 years
male: 15 years
female: 16 years (2016)
total: 20.6%
male: 17.6%
female: 25.9% (2017 est.)
country comparison to the world: 63
US Money’s Practical Check-off List for Overseas Home Purchases
When shopping for a new home for your overseas retirement, the most important thing is to follow your instincts. Choose a new home for your new retirement life in another country because you like it and it feels right to you. Here is a check-off list to consider when thinking through your overseas home purchase.
Original Article Text From US News Money:
10 Questions to Ask About a Retirement Home Overseas
When shopping for a new home for your retirement overseas, the most important thing is to follow your instincts. Allow yourself to be led by your heart and your gut. Choose a new home for your new retirement life in another country because you like it and it feels right to you.
You aren’t buying a retirement home to make money. Perhaps the property you buy ultimately will be worth more than you’re paying for it and turn out to have been a smart investment, but don’t allow that agenda to get in your way.
Of course, there are also many practical considerations when making any real estate purchase. Here is a list of some quantifiable things to consider when thinking through the purchase of a new home in another country. The answers to these questions will help you to pin down the lifestyle you imagine for yourself in retirement. You can then work backward from that lifestyle to the house that would best support it.
1. How much space will you need? Do you want an apartment or a house? One bedroom or two? (You probably won’t need more than two.) Two levels or only one? A guest room or even a guest house? Will you have guests often, for example? Will you want them to be able to stay with you, or would you prefer if they came and went from a hotel nearby?
2. Do you want a front yard, a back garden, or a swimming pool? All of these things require care and maintenance.
3. Do you want to be in the heart of downtown or out in the country?
4. Do you want a turn-key, a renovation project, or something in-between?
5. Do you like the idea of living in a gated community, or would you prefer a more integrated setting, such as a neighborhood where you could become part of the local community? This is a key consideration. Going local means you have to learn the local language (if you don’t speak it already). Or perhaps you’d prefer to be off on your own with undeveloped acres between you and your nearest neighbor. In this type of rural setting you will need to build your own in-case-of-emergency infrastructure.
6. Consider traffic patterns and transportation. Where you base yourself determines whether you’ll need to invest in a car, which is an important budget consideration.
7. Consider the convenience factor. How far is it to shopping, restaurants, nightlife, parking, and the nearest medical facility?
8. Do you want a furnished home? You may have no choice but to buy unfurnished (unless you buy, say, from another expat who’s interested in selling his place including all contents). Buying unfurnished means you’ll need to purchase furniture locally or ship your household goods from home.
9. What’s your budget? This is the most practical guideline of all, of course. Be clear on your finances before you start shopping, and, if your budget is strict, don’t be tempted to consider properties outside your price point. You’ll only be disappointing yourself unnecessarily.
10. Finally, ask yourself what kind of view you’d like from your bedroom window each morning. This can be an effective way to focus on something important that might otherwise be overlooked until it’s too late.
NEW ! SCROLL DOWN FOR NEW U.S. VETERANS' INFORMATION
UPDATED JAN. 17, 2019
Veterans Affairs info to get you started:
https://cr.usembassy.gov/u-s-citizen-services/veterans-affairs/
http://alcr10.org/ AMERICAN LEGION AUXILIARY SON OF THE AMERICAN LEGION Harold L. LeClaire American Legion Post 10 (CR) NEXT MEETING
Meeting location- San Jose, CR; Casa de Espana First WEDNESDAY of the month-12 Noon CONTACT MAIN NUMBER(506)4034-0788 ...
FOR CLINICA BIBLICA:
http://www.hcbinternational.com/web/
Health Care for Veteran's in Costa Rica
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The Clínica Bíblica now accepts medical coverage through Tri Care Latin America and CHAMPUS for hospital and pharmacy services.
Here are the requirements for medical benefits for U.S. military retirees and their families:
- A current U.S. military retiree ID card (20 years of active duty)
- 65 years or over and have Medicare Part B.
- Current ID cards for all dependents under 21 years of age if in college with proof of enrollment
- Unmarried widows must have the related documents above for their husband. Medical benefits for U.S. veterans: The disabled veteran can only be treated for the disabilities listed on the Treatment Authorization Sheet from the VA. If the veteran is 100 percent disabled, all dependents will receive total health care, not including dental and glasses.
The following documents are required:
- Current CHAMPUS VA card.
- Current ID card for all dependents under the age of 21 and up to 23 years of age if in college with proof of enrollment.
- Copy of DD 214
- Unmarried widows must have the related documents above for their husband.
E-mail: seguros@ clinicabiblica.com.
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