RICO’s Q -Yesterday, I published an article titled “10 minutes and more to cross the Tarcoles bridge.” I’ll admit, it had been a few weeks since I last crossed the famous ‘crocodile bridge,’ and I took recent reports at face value—thinking the construction wasn’t causing too many headaches for drivers.
My sources suggested that a 10-minute delay was typical, except during off-hours like late at night.
Turns out, I was wrong. I even told that to the readers who emailed me with their own stories. So, I decided to dig a little deeper.
What I found was pretty eye-opening. Depending on the time and day, wait times can stretch anywhere from 45 minutes to two hours.
Tom Clifton popped up on Gloriana Matamoros’s Facebook post with some practical advice: “Have a good playlist ready. And iPads charged for the kids.” Luis Angel Campos chimed in too, saying, “If you have to pass by the bridge, bring snacks and refreshments to keep you entertained.”
Some folks posted even crazier stories—waiting five, six hours to get through. Veronique Chenu shared, “It took us six hours to get to the airport from Tarcoles on a Friday afternoon. Worst traffic jam of my life.”
Then there’s Melanie Thiessen Iorio, who had a totally different experience: “We had a 5 a.m. flight this morning, so we left Jaco for SJO just after midnight—didn’t even have to stop at the bridge. Breezed through!”
So yeah, it all comes down to timing. Between 7 p.m. and 5 a.m., things seem smooth. But from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m., the story changes—and some days are definitely worse than others.
This brings up a bigger question—why is the Ministry of Public Works and Transportation (MOPT) causing such a mess by working on a bridge that looks perfectly fine?
MOPT insists the bridge isn’t as solid as it looks. They say the reinforcement work is crucial because the structure is seriously worn down. This isn’t just their word; technical studies back it up. The National Laboratory of Materials and Structural Models at the University of Costa Rica (LanammeUCR) and other experts have confirmed it.Back
in 2016, LanammeUCR released a report titled “Evaluation of the condition of the bridge over the Tárcoles River, National Route No. 34.”
That report gave a detailed look at the bridge’s structural health, diagnosing its current state, checking for any damage or risks to its safety and function. It also laid the groundwork for necessary repairs, aiming to keep the bridge safe and reliable on a key route for Costa Rica’s traffic and transport.
It took nine years for MOPT to finally act on this. That might sound like forever, but in MOPT terms, it’s apparently “just around the bend.”
The alternate routes
For the most part, the Tarcoles bridge stands as the main route connecting the Central Valley with Central Pacific spots like Jaco and Quepos.
There is an alternative path—Ciudad Colón to Puriscal to Esterillos—mostly traveled via National Secondary Route 239. This road links Ciudad Colón to Puriscal and then heads toward the coast near Esterillos.
While mostly paved, this route can get narrow and twisty, especially as it climbs through higher elevations. The section between Route 34 (the coastal highway) and Mastatal has recently been improved and graded, but the whole stretch is still vulnerable to mudslides and heavy fog. Driving here at night or in bad weather can be tricky and sometimes risky.
Between Ciudad Colón and Puriscal, some maintenance and paving have helped smooth out travel, but it’s still a secondary road with tight spots and limited safety features. Fog often cuts visibility, especially up high, and lighting is scarce. Plus, expect one-lane bridges and sharp bends—typical of rural roads in Costa Rica.
In short, the Ciudad Colón-Puriscal-Esterillos route works, but requires careful driving.
If you’re traveling to or from the South Pacific and want to dodge the hassle at Tarcoles bridge, your best bet is using Costa Rica’s Ruta 34 combined with Ruta 2 (Interamericana Sur).
The route heads east from San José, passing through Cartago before turning south toward San Isidro del General (Pérez Zeledón) through the Cerro de la Muerte. From Pérez, you can keep going down Ruta 2 all the way to Paso Canoas. Alternatively, you can take Ruta Nacional Secundaria 243 west to Dominical. From there, you can travel north to Quepos and Jaco or go south to reconnect with Ruta 2 all the way to the Panama border.
Q24N — If you’re into classic cars, Uruguay is a hidden gem that might just surprise you. It’s not the first place that pops into your head when you think about vintage auto culture, but that’s exactly what makes it special.
Uruguay is a classic car paradise because a prolonged economic decline from the late 1950s to the 1980s limited car imports, leading people to maintain and pass down family vehicles for generations.
The country’s laid-back vibe and deep respect for history create the perfect environment for classic car lovers to thrive.
For starters, Uruguay’s scale plays a big part. It’s small enough that enthusiasts from all over can connect easily, forming tight-knit communities that share a passion for restoring and preserving old rides. Whether you’re cruising through Montevideo or heading out to a coastal town, you’ll spot gleaming vintage Chevys, Fords, and European classics that seem frozen in time.
But it’s not just about spotting cool cars parked on the street. Uruguay hosts some of the most charming and well-attended classic car events in South America. These gatherings aren’t about flashy crowds or big sponsorships—they’re about the joy of the cars themselves and the stories behind them. You’ll find owners eager to swap restoration tips and share tales about the first time they took their classic out for a spin.
The country’s climate also helps. Uruguay’s mild weather means these old vehicles don’t have to face harsh winters or extreme heat, conditions that can wreck vintage engines and paint jobs. That’s why many classics here look better preserved than you might expect from a place with such a long history of car culture.
Another reason Uruguay stands out is its relaxed approach to regulations around importing and owning classic cars.
Compared to many other countries, it’s easier and more affordable to bring in a vintage vehicle and keep it roadworthy. This openness has attracted collectors and restorers from neighboring countries, turning Uruguay into a hub for classic car enthusiasts across the region.
Finally, there’s a cultural angle that can’t be ignored. Uruguayans tend to appreciate the charm of the past and see classic cars as rolling pieces of art and history. It’s not just about owning a shiny old car—it’s about preserving a piece of the country’s identity and heritage.
So, if you ever find yourself in Uruguay and hear the rumble of a perfectly tuned vintage engine, know that you’re witnessing a classic car culture that’s alive, well, and thriving—thanks to a unique blend of community, climate, and character that makes Uruguay a true paradise for lovers of the old and beautiful.
Q COSTARICA — Traffic is getting snarled around the bridge over the Tárcoles River, the famous ‘crocodiles bridge’, along the Costanera (ruta 34), with drivers losing up to 10 minutes or more in delays.
Still, the Ministry of Public Works and Transportation (MOPT) says the reinforcement work is absolutely necessary.
The MOPT pointed out that the bridge is seriously worn down—a fact backed up by technical studies from LanammeUCR and other experts.
To make the repairs, MOPT has partially closed the bridge, causing major traffic jams and significantly impacting tourism and local businesses.
“We know the traffic controls have led to delays during certain times,” MOPT said. “But our monitoring shows these slowdowns aren’t constant—mostly just during rush hours—and usually last less than 10 minutes.”
Official notice: “Paso regulado” over the Tarcoles bridge continues from Monday to Sunday, day and night.
They stressed the disruption is only temporary, but it’s crucial to act now to avoid a possible collapse.
If the bridge fails, it would cut off the Pacific coast route, disrupting tourism, freight shipments, and the daily commute for thousands.
The catch is that the area sees a lot of traffic and tourists, so the repairs are causing real headaches for everyone.
Q COSTARICA — 70% of adults in Costa Rica are overweight, and among them, 34% are classified as obese, based on data from the Ministry of Health.
Meanwhile, over 375,000 people aged 20 to 79 live with diabetes, which accounts for 9.8% of that age group, according to the International Diabetes Federation’s Diabetes Atlas.
These health issues have quietly become major threats to heart health, raising the chances of heart attacks, strokes, and other serious problems.
A Worrying Outlook
The high rate of overweight adults in Costa Rica can be traced to a mix of lifestyle and dietary changes over recent decades.
As the country has modernized, many people have shifted away from traditional, more active ways of living to more sedentary routines. This means less physical activity in daily life, whether at work or home.
At the same time, diets have moved toward processed and convenience foods that are higher in calories, sugars, and unhealthy fats, while consumption of fresh fruits, vegetables, and whole grains has declined.
Additionally, urbanization has made fast food more accessible and affordable, further pushing people toward unhealthy eating habits. Economic growth has also played a role by increasing disposable income, which often translates into more eating out and indulgence in calorie-dense foods.
Q COSTA RICA — A few weeks back, part of a building’s facade on Avenida Central came crashing down, thrusting Costa Rica’s San José back into the spotlight.
A few facts suffice make it clear why the city feels so empty.
In the past fifty years, the capital has seen its population cut in half. Back in 1963, the four central districts of San José was home to nearly 100,000 people. Now, the latest census shows only about 54,000.
The real estate market shows a clear gap, too. The Costa Rican Institute of Technology (TEC) estimates that 17% of properties in the city center are completely vacant, while another 18% are only partially occupied. Put together, that means over a third—36%—of buildings aren’t being fully used.
“In our study area, which was approximately 1,260 properties in the historic center, about half of the historic center… in that area alone, we have a 35% underutilization rate and a 17% total vacancy rate,” explained TEC researcher Tomás Martínez.
“That’s a very high figure for any city in the world. Any city in the world that exceeds 10% vacancy in its building stock has something to worry about,” he explains.
These unoccupied structures, ranging from commercial spaces to residential properties, reflect a mix of economic and urban challenges.
The collapse of a facade raised concerns about the quality and condition of several buildings. (El Observador)
Many of these unbuildings remain unused due to factors such as high rental costs, outdated infrastructure, or shifts in business activity, especially in the wake of economic slowdowns or changing market demands.
The presence of empty buildings creates a visible impact on the capital city’s landscape and economy. They can contribute to urban decay, reduce foot traffic in affected areas, and discourage new investments.
At the same time, they represent missed opportunities for housing, retail, or community use in a city grappling with growth and development pressures.
One floor yes, the others no
The review of the underutilization of buildings in the capital puts particular emphasis on how only one floor is the visible face of the rest of the buildings.
“We’re talking, more or less, about the phenomenon that is quite common in San José, which is that the first floor is commercially used, while the upper floors are unoccupied and have very low occupancy rates, less than 30%,” added Martínez.
The observation covers both commercial and residential uses of the buildings.
Local authorities and stakeholders have been exploring strategies to address this issue.
These include incentives to renovate and repurpose vacant properties, promoting affordable rental options, and encouraging mixed-use development to breathe new life into idle spaces.
The goal is to transform these empty buildings into productive assets that support San José’s social and economic vitality while improving urban aesthetics and safety.
Overall, the challenge of empty buildings in San José underscores the need for coordinated urban planning and economic policies that balance development with sustainability and inclusivity.
Turning these spaces from liabilities into opportunities could play a key role in the city’s future growth and community well-being.
San José has all the essentials to accommodate residents
When it comes to the tough unemployment situation, experts highlight something often overlooked: San José already has plenty going for it that’s just not being used.
A factor that is not always noticed is the advantages that San José already has and that are not being taken advantage of.
“It’s the place with the most urban resources—underground electricity, sewage systems, fiber optic internet, amenities, services, transportation, parks. Everything’s here, but not enough people are living here,” summed up the TEC expert.
Municipality Commits to Building “Recycling”
The city of San José sees its buildings as key players in the community’s comeback. The local government explains that improving boulevards, parks, and public spaces is just part of the plan.
But they’re also pushing the idea of “building recycling.”
This means refreshing incentives for real estate developers to bring more affordable housing to the heart of the city, focusing on the four central districts.Part of this effort involves figuring out what rules are holding back unused buildings from being converted into homes—and fixing those roadblocks.
This line includes a plan to identify regulatory obstacles that prevent unused buildings from being put to residential use.
Q COSTARICA — When Rüdiger and Manuela Schickhaus decided to leave Europe, they weren’t looking for adventure or risk. After decades of work and a stable life in Germany and Austria, they wanted a quiet retirement, surrounded by nature, the sea, and their four dogs.
Their chosen destination was Quepos, on Costa Rica’s Pacific coast, a country they described on their personal blog as the place where they could build a new life.
But there was an unexpected twist.
On Monday, September 22, 2025, the Organismo de Investigación Judicial (OIJ) reported the discovery of their bodies buried in the garden of their home. Both had been shot. What was supposed to be a refuge ended up becoming the scene of their violent deaths.
A life of work and reinvention
Rüdiger, born in Germany in 1965, initially pursued a military career, reaching the rank of second lieutenant, as he described on his social media. He then reinvented himself in the IT world, working at companies such as Compaq, INFORMIX, IBM, and later Cloudera, where he specialized in big data, security, and data governance. According to his professional profile, he also gave technical talks and was considered an expert in manufacturing and the Internet of Things.
Manuela, 57, from Bischofshofen, Salzburg, Austria, shared his love of animals and a quiet life. They had been a couple since 2015. Their dogs—Shaba, Bella, Brian, and Lucky—were an essential part of their family, so much so that, as they explained on their blog, any retirement plan had to include space and conditions for them: “There are six of us,” they wrote in a recently published blog.
Rüdiger also held fundraising events for shelters in Germany on several occasions. The couple married in 2015.
The Road to Costa Rica
In 2021, they began searching for a retirement destination. They first explored southern Italy, but “we were sure it wouldn’t be our retirement home,” Rüdiger wrote on the blog. They also considered Mexico and Panama. Mexico was ruled out for safety reasons, and Panama because it didn’t meet their expectations. They ultimately chose Costa Rica for its tropical climate, biodiversity, and image of a safe and stable country.
They sold properties in Munich and Burgenland, Austria, and moved to the central Pacific. In May 2022, they purchased a large property in Quepos, which they named “UFO House” for its unique design. There, they enjoyed scuba diving, paddleboarding, and a tropical garden that served as a refuge. On social media and expat forums, they shared their excitement at having found “the ideal place.”
Unexpected Violence
On September 22, Costa Rican authorities found their bodies bound and buried in bags on the grounds of the house. There were traces of blood in several rooms and signs of an attempted cleanup. The police investigation points to a violent assault as the main hypothesis.
The crime shocked the local community.
In Austrian and German media, the news was echoed with disbelieving headlines: a couple who left everything behind in search of peace in the tropics died as victims of the violence they were trying to avoid.
Their dogs, which survived the attack, were left in the care of relatives.
The Interrupted Dream
On his blog, Rüdiger had said that after 38 years of career, he was wondering if this was the future he wanted: “I started to think, is this what I want to do for the rest of my life?” The answer led them to sell everything and start over.
Costa Rica was their life’s project: nature, the sea, and time to spend with their dogs. The very house they designed as a refuge ended up being their tomb.
Q24N — The United States revoked Gustavo Petro’s visa following his protest in New York, accusing him of incitement and “incendiary” actions.
The U.S. State Department, led by former senator Marco Rubio, announced on Friday through social media, the revocation of Colombian President Gustavo Petro’s visa after he participated in a protest in New York in support of Palestine.
In a statement posted on its official X account, the institution said: “Earlier today, Colombian President Gustavo Petro stood on a New York street and urged U.S. soldiers to disobey orders and incite violence. We will revoke his visa due to his reckless and incendiary actions.”
Earlier today, Colombian president @petrogustavo stood on a NYC street and urged U.S. soldiers to disobey orders and incite violence.
We will revoke Petro’s visa due to his reckless and incendiary actions.
According to El País.com, Petro took to the streets of Manhattan after his speech at the United Nations General Assembly and called on U.S. soldiers to “not point their rifles at humanity” and to “disobey Trump’s order, obey humanity’s order.”
According to the news site Infobae, at the UN, the Petro proposed the creation of a “World Salvation Army” as an international mechanism to liberate Palestine. He also added that “millions of men and women from around the world should decide to form the first detachments,” with the goal of silencing “the voice of Trump and the voice of Netanyahu.”
The decision by Washington, which has been Israel’s main political and military supporter, marks a new clash with the Petro administration. El País emphasized that the measure opens an unprecedented diplomatic crisis between Colombia and the United States.
Colombian President Gustavo Petro, during a pro-Palestinian demonstration in New York on Friday. Photo: REUTERS
The Colombian president was returning to Bogotá when the news broke. His Interior Minister, Armando Benedetti, was the first in his Cabinet to speak out. “The only one whose visa should have been revoked was Netanyahu,” he also stated on social media. “But since the empire protects him, they’re taking it out on the only president who was capable of telling him the truth to his face.”
Earlier this month, Colombia lost its certification as an allied country in the war on drugs, a move the United States government announced was due “exclusively to his (Petro’s) political leadership.” The US government has maintained channels of communication with other Colombian politicians and businessmen, in addition to continuing a strategic military alliance between the two armies, but has made it clear that it does not accept the Colombian president’s style of leadership.
Revoking Petro’s visa without imposing sanctions on the country is another way of sending the same message. Although Petro also has an Italian passport, with which he could enter the United States, the State Department could deny him entry if it maintains its firm position to exclude him from US territory.
Q COSTARICA — Karen Olsen Beck, who once served as Costa Rica’s first lady, passed away on Thursday, September 25, at 95 years old, the Partido Liberación Nacional (PLN) confirmed.
She was married to former President José Figueres Ferrer and was the mother of José María Figueres Olsen, who served as president from 1994 to 1998.
Born in New York on January 31, 1930, Karen pursued architecture, earned a bachelor’s degree in social service, completed a master’s in sociology, and undertook pre-doctoral studies.
Karen was the mother of four children: José María, Karen Christiana, Mariano, and Kirsten. Mariano, who once led the Dirección De Inteligencia y Seguridad (DIS), died on September 25, 2019, and Kirsten passed away on December 15, 2023.
Between 1990 and 1994, she served as a legislator for the PLN. Later, during her son José Maria’s administration, she was named presidential advisor and represented Costa Rica as a diplomat in various international forums.
Karen Olsen also held the post of Costa Rica’s ambassador to Israel.
Throughout her time as first lady, she was actively involved in numerous philanthropic efforts.
Her wake will be held on Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Jardines del Recuerdo funeral home in Los Yoses. The funeral service is scheduled for Sunday at 1 p.m. at Curridabat Church.
Q COSTARICA — Costa Rica is gearing up to host the NASA Space Apps Challenge, an event backed by NASA and its international partners. Scheduled for October 3rd through 5th, the challenge aims to bring in 300 participants, with a goal that at least half of them are women.
Registration is open to everyone—students, professionals, or anyone eager to tackle NASA’s challenges—and it’s completely free. You don’t need any special background to join. Just be sure to sign up by October 4th.
Over a 48-hour period, teams will dive into projects tied to NASA’s missions. These span topics like climate change, space exploration, Earth observation, artificial intelligence, robotics, and data analysis.
The kickoff will be virtual on Friday, October 3rd. Then, on Saturday and Sunday, participants will meet in person at Fidélitas University in San José and Lincoln School in Heredia.
The Fidélitas sessions are for adults only, while Lincoln School will welcome kids to explore the same themes.
Lincoln School’s Tech Week aims to bust the myth that technology is only for experts. Through workshops and talks designed for different age groups, students will build skills in critical thinking, creativity, and problem-solving.
“Programming and AI aren’t out of reach—they’re tools our students can use to learn, create, and contribute,” says Carolyn Hernández, coordinator of Tech Week.
Throughout the weekend, more than 30 mentors will support the teams. A national jury will judge the projects based on impact, creativity, feasibility, prototypes, and how clearly ideas are presented.
The top five teams will score scholarships for courses and get a chance to showcase their work across Latin America’s networking platforms. Plus, two or three teams will represent Costa Rica in NASA’s global evaluation.
This edition of the Space Apps Challenge hopes to spark curiosity in a new generation and link Costa Rican talent to the worldwide scientific innovation community.
Q COSTARICA — Under the guidance of Mayor Diego Miranda, the Municipality of San José got the green light from the Ministerio de Obras Públicas y Transportes (MOPT) – Ministry of Public Works and Transportation – to spruce up Avenida Segunda.
This project aims to modernize and beautify one of the city’s most iconic avenidas (avenues), giving it a fresh new vibe with the widening of the sidewalks, adding extra lighting, and planting trees to make the area look better and feel more welcoming.
The goal is to make the city of San José a more beautiful place. This is a modernization and beautification project that seeks to transform one of the capital’s most iconic corridors.
The initiative already includes micro and macro technical studies and construction plans.
“All of these improvements will ensure a more pleasant urban appearance and landscape for the capital, improving vehicular traffic and mobility, as well as attracting tourists. It’s false that two lanes will be closed,” clarified Jordan Vargas, Service Provision Manager for the Municipality of San José.
Following traffic analyses, it was determined that it is possible to widen the sidewalks up to 2.5 meters (8 feet), ensuring universal accessibility, improve lighting with more efficient technology, plant trees along the entire avenue, and even build a linear park in front of the National Museum.
The Improvements
The studies revealed that the road currently has structural problems and does not comply with Law 7600 on accessibility. Furthermore, the lack of street lighting creates a feeling of insecurity, and hot spots reaching up to 35 degrees Celsius have been detected in certain sections.
Another finding is the irregular use of two lanes, with trucks unloading merchandise in unauthorized places and at unauthorized times, and unauthorized bus stops, which hinder vehicular traffic.
The Municipality of San José will allocate more than ¢1.475 billion colones to transform the 1.8 kilometers of Avenida Segunda between Calles 14 and 21.
Q COSTARICA — With the publication of a new law in the official gazette, La Gaceta, self-employed workers in Costa Rica will pay less income tax starting in January 2026.
This is a reduction in the income tax brackets for lower-income workers, and was promoted by the Frente Amplio party.
The new legislation establishes these new parameters, according to Grant Thornton:
Incomes up to ¢6,244,000 colones annually will not be subject to income tax
On incomes exceeding ¢6,244,000 colones annually and up to ¢8,329,000 colones per year, a 10% tax rate will apply
On incomes exceeding ¢8,329,000 colones annually and up to ¢10,414,000 colones annually, a 15% tax will apply
On income exceeding ¢10,414,000 colones annually and up to ¢20,872,000 colones a 20% tax rate will apply
On incomes exceeding ¢20,872,000 colones annually, a 25% tax rate will apply
In Costa Rica, self-employed workers navigate a tax system that requires them to manage their own income reporting and contributions, unlike salaried employees whose taxes are typically withheld by employers.
Being self-employed in Costa Rica means taking on the responsibility of managing taxes independently, understanding the income tax structure, the Impuesto al Valor Agregado (IVA) – a value-added tax requirement – social security contributions, and filing deadlines, while staying compliant and optimizing financial outcomes.
Self-employed individuals in Costa Rica must register with the tax authorities (Dirección General de Tributación) and file an annual income tax return.
Many self-employed workers face challenges in tax compliance due to the complexity of the system and the need for diligent record-keeping. Seeking professional advice or using accounting services can help navigate these obligations effectively.
Q COSTARICA — Costa Rica maintains a 30% corporate income tax rate, one of the highest in the world, according to the latest data from the Tax Foundation, an independent research center based in Washington, D.C.
The country ranks above the global average (23.5%) and the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) average (23.8%).
This means that companies operating in the country face a higher tax burden than developed economies such as Sweden, Denmark, Norway, Switzerland, Germany, New Zealand, and France, which apply more moderate taxes to their corporations.
In parallel, the Ministerio de Hacienda (Ministry of Finance) has strengthened tax controls this year by strengthening electronic invoicing, increasing oversight of SINPE Móvil, developing the TRIBU-CR platform, and automatically exchanging financial information with international digital platforms.
For tax attorney Gabriel Zamora Baudrit, the combination of increased oversight and a lack of tax relief creates a structural problem: “This means that Costa Rica is not only viewed as an expensive country to invest in, but also as a tax system that does not encourage business formality.”
The specialist added that the lack of incentives limits competitiveness, encourages evasion, and hinders the reinvestment of profits in job creation and economic growth.
Zamora also warns that if the country continues with a high-tax model, it runs the risk of widening its competitiveness gap and losing attractiveness compared to nations that currently lead in key sectors such as technology, services, and advanced manufacturing.
Q COSTARICA — Minutes before 11:00 am, the announcement came over the loudspeakers at Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO): the radar issue at the control tower has been fixed, and flights will slowly start getting back on track.
Aeris, the company that runs the San José airport, posted on social media advising passengers to reach out to their airlines for details on any flight changes.
The same is occurring at the Guanacaste Airport.
What happened?
Just after 6 a.m. this Wednesday morning, Costa Rica’s Directorate General of Civil Aviation announced that the country’s airspace was closed.
They confirmed an electrical failure had taken out the radar at Santamaría, which knocked out control over the entire airspace — including the Guanacaste Airport in Liberia.
As a result, dozens of flights heading in and out of Costa Rica’s two international airports were delayed, canceled, or rerouted.
Controllers had already warned about recurring radar failures on the Juan Santamaría
The Union of Professional Approach Controllers of Costa Rica (SIPROC) has released a statement about the airspace closure, calling the situation “critical” and warning that it threatens the safety of the country’s national airspace.
SIPROC explained that since June, they’ve met with Efraim Zeledón Leiva, Minister of Public Works and Transportation(MOPT), and Marcos Castillo Masís, Director of Civil Aviation, to raise concerns about persistent problems with the airport’s radar and communications systems.
The controllers say they warned these issues might cause a complete system failure—like the blackout that happened on the morning of Wednesday, September 24, which was fixed by 10:54 a.m.
“Safety is non-negotiable!” the union declared, criticizing authorities for ignoring their warnings. They say they can no longer work under conditions that put operational safety and lives at risk.
“This situation can’t go on. It demands an immediate and responsible response from those in charge,” the statement concludes.
Q COSTARICA — Costa Rica closed its airspace on September 24, leading to major flight delays and cancellations. The shutdown began around 6:20 a.m. and is expected to last until noon at both Juan Santamaria International Airport in San Jose (SJO) and Guanacaste Airport in Liberia (LIR).
Officials say the disruption stems from an electrical failure in the country’s air radar system.
Travelers are advised to check with their airlines for updates and consider alternative travel plans, leaving many passengers stranded and flights delayed or canceled.
The Directorate General of Civil Aviation confirmed Wednesday morning that the national radar system was down due to a power failure. The failure forced the temporary suspension of flight departures and arrivals in Costa Rica’s airspace.
Screen capture from FlightRadar24.com at 7:45am
The situation has resulted in aircraft being unable to land or take off. Some incoming flights are being diverted to alternate airports outside the country, such as Guatemala or Panama.
“Guanacaste Airport reports that, following instructions from the Directorate General of Civil Aviation, the national airspace is closed this Wednesday, September 24, from 6:19 am to 12 noon, local time.
Users are reporting on social media that the waiting rooms and boarding areas have become crowded, while airlines recommend travelers check their official apps for rescheduled times.
Although the Director of Civil Aviation, Marco Castillo, confirmed the emergency, it has not yet been specified how long it will take to restore the system. The institution maintains technical personnel addressing the outage.
Civil Aviation indicated that it will continue to provide information on the progress of the work and asked passengers to remain attentive to the airlines’ official channels.
The press department of the Ministry of Public Works and Transport (MOPT) confirmed to the outage but did not provide details, only that terminal staff are currently working to resolve the issue, and as a precautionary measure, operations have been suspended: no flights are allowed to enter or depart.
Q COSTARICA — First, Costa Rica reaffirms its leadership in meetings tourism with a new brand that combines sustainability, innovation, and hospitality. Furthermore, the Costa Rica Convention Bureau seeks to position the country as a regional benchmark for congresses, conventions, trade shows, and incentive travel.
The proposal is summarized in a clear concept: “Costa Rica: Where nature, innovation, and hospitality create unforgettable events.”
“This change is not only aesthetic, but strategic; it projects Costa Rica as a modern and inspiring destination,” says Tatiana Orozco, Executive Director.
According to the 2024 ICCA ranking, Costa Rica ranks eighth in Latin America among destinations with the most international meetings.
Likewise, the Bureau recognizes the challenges of differentiating the country from regional competitors and opts for a more modern visual identity.
In this sense, the branding strategy reflects the values of innovation, sustainability, and service excellence, essential qualities in meetings tourism.
“We want each event to be a transformative experience that connects participants with the essence of Costa Rica,” he emphasized.
Likewise, the MICE sector (a segment of the tourism industry focused on business and professional events, encompassing meetings, incentives, conferences, and exhibitions) contributes a significant economic impact by attracting international congresses and conventions to the country.
In this way, the new brand emphasizes attributes such as strategic connectivity, quality of life, and hospitality, elements that boost national competitiveness.
Finally, the visual identity is inspired by Costa Rica’s biodiversity, incorporating leaves, birds, and tropical colors with a contemporary graphic style.
Thus, Costa Rica projects itself to the world with a renewed approach that combines natural authenticity and a modern vision for meeting tourism.
Q COSTARICA — The Florida Ice and Farm Company S.A. (FIFCO) announced this Monday, the signing of a binding agreement with HEINEKEN N.V. to sell the remaining 75% stake in Distribuidora La Florida S.A., a company in which the multinational brewer already owns a 25% stake.
With this transaction, HEINEKEN will assume full ownership of a multi-category portfolio, including Costa Rica’s iconic century-old national beer Imperial and a major soft drink business with own brands and PepsiCo bottling licence and retail operations in Costa Rica, Guatemala, El Salvador, and Honduras, as well as the beverage business in Mexico, in addition to stakes in companies in Nicaragua and Panama.
The transaction will strengthen HEINEKEN’s position across attractive Central American growth markets, which have large and expanding profit pools and include assets of high strategic value: the entirety of FIFCO México S.A., focused on ready-to-drink beverages; 75% of Nicaraguan Brewing Holding (NBH) S.A., which in turn owns 49.85% of Inversiones Cerveceras Centroamericanas S.A. (INCECA), the parent company of Compañía Cervecera de Nicaragua; and 25% in Cervecería Panamá S.A., HEINEKEN’s operating company in that country.
The sale also includes iconic divisions such as the Musmanni bakery franchise and the MUSI convenience store chain.
Total cash consideration paid for the equity stakes acquired by HEINEKEN will be approximately US$3.25 billion, implying an acquisition multiple of 11.6x EV/EBITDA based on 2024 results.
The transaction is subject to FIFCO shareholder and regulatory approvals. The deal has been approved unanimously by the board of directors of FIFCO, which includes representatives of FIFCO’s key shareholders. Completion is expected in H1 2026.
In the deal, FIFCO will retain other business lines, including its hospitality division, real estate developments, and its stake in Empresas COMEGUA S.A., a glass producer.
FIFCO also maintains its status as an authorized issuer on the Bolsa Nacional de Valores de Costa Rica (National Stock Exchange of Costa Rica), reaffirming its commitment to transparency and generating value for its shareholders.
Wilhelm Steinvorth, Chairman of the Board of Directors of FIFCO, emphasized that the agreement honors the company’s history and strengthens its alliance with HEINEKEN, which has spanned more than 23 years.
“Today we are proud to take this step forward with an admired company that respects our cultural identity and offers a global platform for our iconic brands—like Imperial—to thrive and evolve,” he stated.
“Today marks a transformative milestone for HEINEKEN as we join forces with FIFCO to unlock new growth opportunities. By integrating FIFCO’s iconic brands, deep market expertise, and exemplary sustainability credentials, we are accelerating our EverGreen strategy and entering new profit pools across Central America.
“This partnership is grounded in decades of shared values and trust, providing a robust foundation for long-term value creation. I am excited to welcome FIFCO’s talented team, and am confident that our shared strengths – HEINEKEN’s global best practices and FIFCO’s unmatched local knowhow – will drive excellence and deliver exceptional growth for our employees, customers, and stakeholders throughout the region,” stated Dolf van den Brink, HEINEKEN Chairman of the Executive Board and Chief Executive Officer.
The relationship with HEINEKEN has been marked by shared values, strategic alignment, and a mutual commitment to sustainability. The Dutch brewer’s global scale opens the door to greater innovation, the adoption of world-class practices, and the preservation of FIFCO’s legacy in Central America and Mexico.
“This is a significant step for our communities, our economy, and the Central American region as a whole,” added Steinvorth.
The closing of the transaction will depend on the approval of the relevant regulatory authorities. FIFCO’s Board of Directors unanimously approved the transaction and will recommend its favorable vote to shareholders. If the process progresses as planned, the sale will be completed in the first half of 2026.
During the transition period, FIFCO has assured that it will maintain operational continuity for employees, customers, partners, and suppliers.
Q COSTARICA — Costa Rica’s Legislative Assembly rejected the lifting of the immunity of President Rodrigo Chávez on Monday, September 22nd. The motion received 34 votes in favor and 21 against, with no abstentions and two legislators absent.
The Legislative Plenary held the vote after the case was brought up for discussion, following a request from the Public Prosecutor’s Office (Fiscalia). The accusation had already been reviewed by the Third Chamber and the Supreme Court of Justice.
Next, it was presented to the Legislative Assembly, where a Special Commission examined the issue of lifting immunity and, by a majority, recommended it to the Plenary. To actually lift the immunity, at least 38 votes—a qualified majority—were needed.
“There are insufficient grounds to proceed with lifting the immunity of President Rodrigo Alberto de Jesús Chávez Robles,” said the speaker of Congress, Rodrigo Arias, after the vote.
Divided Caucuses and Close Result
The votes in favor came mainly from the Partido Liberacioni Nacional (PLN), Frente Amplio (FA), Liberal Progresista Party, and independent legislators. Among those voting in favor were Jonathan Acuña, Eliécer Feinzaig, Kattia Rivera, Daniela Rojas, Priscilla Vindas, and Óscar Izquierdo.
On the other hand, figures such as ruling party member Ada Acuña, Pilar Cisneros, and the rest of the government faction voted against. Also voting against were Fabricio Alvarado, Jorge Rojas, José Pablo Sibaja, Rosalía Brown, and Paola Nájera, among others.
In general, the ruling party, the entire Neuva República, and an internal division within the Partido Unidad Social Cristiana (PUSC) caucus.
Carolina Delgado of the PLN was the only party member who rejected the lifting of immunity; her decision was held in abeyance until the last minute. She was the last of the entire Plenary to register her electronic vote.
Some legislators reported pressure to vote against. The ruling party questioned these statements and provided no evidence.
This is the complete list of votes of the 55 (of the 57) legislators present:
Absent from the vote were independent legislators Cynthia Córdoba (out of the country) and Luis Diego Vargas, also a legislator who broke away from the PLP and is now a vice presidential candidate with the Unidos Podemos party. Vargas withdrew from the session later in the afternoon.
Majority Not Reached Halts the Judicial Process
Congress has blocked any judicial action against the president while he’s still in office. By denying the waiver of immunity, the court can’t move forward with the case for now.
Attorney General Carlo Díaz made it clear that the investigation into President Rodrigo Chaves is still ongoing.
“Tonight, 21 lawmakers voted against lifting the president’s immunity, while 34 supported it. But 38 votes were needed to remove that protection. Until the president leaves office, criminal proceedings can’t proceed without approval.
“The investigation isn’t over, and the criminal case hasn’t been dropped; it will keep going once the President’s immunity ends and the case can move forward through the normal legal process,” Díaz explained.
Díaz expressed respect for the decision taken by the legislators and took the opportunity to reaffirm his commitment to objectivity and independence. It’s important to remember that the Attorney General is the one who asked the Supreme Court to forward the request to lift Chaves’s immunity to the Legislative Assembly.
On July 1, the Court approved the request with 15 justices and 7 against. A special commission was then established in Congress to study the issue.
Until May 9?
Chaves won’t face trial for the alleged bribery until May 9, 2026.
In the meantime, Laura Fernández, the presidential candidate for Partido Pueblo Soberano (PPSO)—a party seen as continuing the “Chavismo” legacy—promised to do everything in her power to appoint Chaves as Ministro de la Presidencia (Chief of Staff), if elected in the February 2026 elections.
In this way, on May 8, after stepping down as President at high noon, Chaves would be later in the day sworn in as a Minister in Fernández’s government, securing an additional four years of immunity as long as he stays by Fernández’s side throughout the term.
Top officials of the supreme powers are protected from legal action while they hold office.
Q COSTARICA — Should President Rodrigo Chaves lose his immunity? That’s the big question facing Costa Rica’s legislators this Monday, starting at 2 p.m., when they’ll hold a historic session to debate and decide.
The controversy centers on the Attorney General’s Office charging the president with bribery. They say he pressured audiovisual producer Christian Bulgarelli to hand over US$32,000 to Federico Cruz, aka “Choreco,” from the payment Bulgarelli was supposed to get through a contract with the Central American Bank for Economic Integration (CABEI).
A few weeks back, the Special Legislative Commission looked into the matter and recommended lifting Chaves’ immunity by majority vote. But in the end, all the legislators will have a final say.
To strip Chaves of his immunity, at least 38 of the 57 legislators have to vote in favor—and right now, that doesn’t seem like a sure thing.
Most legislators have said they won’t announce their decision until Monday, right when the vote takes place.
So far, the count for lifting immunity sits around 34 votes, possibly climbing to 36. Some members of the Partido Liberación Nacional (PLN), which holds the largest number of legislators, have already said they’ll back it—people like Rodrigo Arias (president of the legislature) and Danny Vargas.
At a caucus meeting last Tuesday, where 14 of the 18 PLN legislators showed up, everyone voiced their support. Out of the four who weren’t there, at least three are expected to fall in line with the group, leaving maybe one who might vote against it—but nothing’s set in stone yet.
In favor
In addition to the 14 votes from the PLN, there are six from the Frente Amplio (FA) faction, which has already announced its support for the report recommending the removal of Chaves’ immunity.
Rocío Alfaro, a representative of the Frente Amplio and member of the Special Commission, said they reviewed the legal arguments, the facts, and the evidence in the file. They all agreed there’s enough reason for the case to move forward in court.
The five independent legislators—Kattia Cambronero, Johana Obando, Gloria Navas, Cynthia Córdoba, and María Marta Padilla—will also be included. Even though Padilla first asked to be excused, she’s now confirmed she’ll be attending after all.
“This is a historic issue, a very serious one, and I will vote affirmatively. I would not want my name, Gloria Navas, a representative, to go down in the annals of the Legislative Assembly if I did not vote in favor of lifting this immunity,” Navas said.
Two legislators of the Progressive Liberal Party (PLP) will be included in favor.
The divided faction of the Partido Unidad Social Cristiana (PUSC), with 9 legislators, is now part of the equation. Even though the presidential candidate, party leaders, and the National Assembly urged support, only four votes were confirmed in favor before the session began.
So far, Vanessa Castro is the only one who has publicly announced her vote in favor.
Against
At present, the ruling party, the Partido Progreso Social Democrático (PPSD), led by Pilar Cisneros, holds eight (of its nine) votes opposing the removal of the president’s immunity.
Cisneros admitted she’s been in talks with several legislators and has convinced some to reconsider their stance.
“Since entering politics, I’ve learned that nothing is certain except what happened yesterday. I’m not acting recklessly; many legislators seem to think there’s no solid case,” she said.
“Many have expressed serious doubts, so I’m hopeful the vote will lean toward maintaining immunity,” she added, noting she’s already made quite a few legislators question their position.
Cisneros said several have told her they plan to vote against stripping the president’s immunity, but declined to name them.
“Some have told me they won’t support it, but I won’t share names; others remain hesitant, and some won’t reveal their vote until the 22nd,” she explained.
Likely opponents include the six Nueva República faction, three PUSC legislators — Leslye Bojorges, Carlos Andrés Robles, and Melina Ajoy — plus independents Gilberth Jiménez and Luis Diego Vargas.
They may be joined by Joaquín Hernández and Luz Mary Alpízar from Progreso, though both say they won’t make up their minds until today.
Five hours
The legislative session will begin at 2 pm and run until 7 pm.
It starts with the reading of the majority report, which was approved by Andrea Álvarez from the PLN and Rocío Alfaro from the Frente Amplio. Right after that, those two, plus Daniel Vargas—the other legislative member—will each get 10 minutes to share their views.
Rodrigo Chaves was invited and offered 30 minutes to defend himself, but he chose not to attend.
Once the reports wrap up, the formal debate will open.
Every faction and independent legislator gets a chance to speak. Lawmakers without a party group have up to 4 minutes each. Since there are 7 of them, that adds up to 28 minutes.
Next, the PLN—being the largest in Congress—gets 76 minutes, or just over an hour. The PUSC and the ruling faction share 38 minutes, while the Frente Amplio and Nueva República together have up to 25 minutes.
Lastly, the Partido Liberal Progresista, with only two members, gets 9 minutes to speak.
If everyone uses their full time, voting will start about 5 minutes before 7 pm.
Calls from Casa Presidencial Spark Pressure Before Vote
Just days before the vote, five legislators told CR Hoy they received calls on Thursday, September 18, from Casa Presidencial. The purpose? To push them into switching their stance on lifting the president’s immunity.
Sources say the calls came during the morning hours of that day. Those who spoke described the tone as heavy with pressure—some even called it threatening—aimed at swaying their votes.
None of the legislators were willing to say who exactly placed the calls.
In Costa Rica, where tourism and technology increasingly shape daily life, the issue of loose cables often slips under the radar. But ignoring these seemingly minor hazards can lead to serious consequences, from safety risks to costly repairs and service interruptions.
Whether tangled wires in busy urban centers or neglected cables in remote areas, overlooking this problem not only threatens infrastructure but also impacts public welfare and economic stability.
Understanding the true cost of neglecting loose cables reveals why attention and action are overdue in this vibrant country.
Neglected infrastructure doesn’t just mar the look of our towns and neighborhoods; it also poses real risks to both animals and people.
As demand for TV and internet services keeps climbing, our poles have become overloaded with a mess of cables. This tangle isn’t just an eyesore—it’s a hazard waiting to happen.
Trucks, strong winds, and other everyday events can damage these crowded lines, leaving broken or hanging cables behind. These abandoned wires aren’t just annoying; they often dangle dangerously close to the ground, putting pedestrians at risk. On a single pole, you’ll find everything from low-voltage cables to those carrying thousands of volts.
Loose cables might look harmless, but they can be deadly traps.
Most cables, even fiber optics, have metal wires inside so they can be strung up on poles. If these metal parts touch live electrical lines, anyone—or any animal—who comes into contact could be seriously hurt. On top of that, the clutter of wires has led to accidents involving wildlife, harming creatures like monkeys and sloths in rural areas and squirrels and birds in the city.
We’re already taking steps near natural parks to reduce these dangers, but it’s just as urgent to do the same in urban neighborhoods.
Fixing this won’t be cheap or easy, but it’s necessary. Clearing out unused cables, pushing forward with underground wiring projects despite their cost, and adding protective covers to keep animals off poles are all important moves.
It’ll take teamwork between utility companies and local governments to make sure our electrical system grows without putting people and wildlife in harm’s way.
Q COSTARICA — From Casa Presidencial, President Rodrigo Chaves has taken charge of the Central Bank’s policy on the dollar exchange rate, according to Claudio Alpízar, the presidential candidate for the Esperanza Nacional Party (National Hope).
Alpízar claims the president’s main goal has been to reduce the state’s debt payments on loans, no matter the fallout.
“The Central Bank has been very hesitant to step in and manage the dollar’s decline, even though this has hurt key parts of the economy like tourism,” Alpízar said.
He argues that this political pressure has caused the colon to be artificially strong, despite the economy not showing growth to back it up.
“The large volume of dollars in the country comes from Costa Rica’s loans, Eurobonds, and even money from organized crime flowing through the local market,” he added.
Alpízar was clear that if elected, he would ensure the Central Bank’s full independence and push for stricter control over the exchange rate in the Monex market, so that policies help the whole economy—not just a few sectors.
He also announced he wouldn’t keep the current Central Bank president, accusing them of “disinterested participation” as the dollar’s value dropped.
This week, it was reported that the Central Bank holds the highest level of international (US dollar) reserves ever. As of August 28, 2025, reserves stood at US$15.03 billion, up US$424.7 million from the previous month.
Q COSTARICA — Costa Rica has been a key drug transit point for over 30 years because of its location, so it’s no surprise that the U.S. government included the country on its list of nations facing this issue, said Mario Zamora, the Minister of Security.
Zamora responded to reactions following the release of the official White House list, signed by President Donald Trump, which names 20 countries identified as major transit routes or significant producers of illegal drugs for fiscal year 2026.
He clarified, “It’s misleading to say Costa Rica was newly added to the list of drug transit countries for the U.S. The entire Central American region has held this status for more than three decades. That’s the cost of being stuck between drug-producing and drug-consuming nations.”
The minister pointed out Central America’s strategic location makes it an unavoidable corridor for illegal shipments moving from South America toward North America.
“Drugs aren’t typically routed through Europe or Asia; they move through the Central American isthmus by air, sea, and land. This geographic reality drives the flow of drugs through the region,” he explained.
Zamora emphasized that this listing isn’t a new development but rather a confirmation of a long-standing issue that affects the whole region.
The list also includes Afghanistan, The Bahamas, Belize, Bolivia, Burma, the People’s Republic of China (PRC), Colombia, Costa Rica, the Dominican Republic, Ecuador, El Salvador, Guatemala, Haiti, Honduras, India, Jamaica, Laos, Mexico, Nicaragua, Pakistan, Panama, Peru, and Venezuela.
The report highlights the need for better border security, stronger international cooperation, and improved information sharing to fight drug trafficking together.
Q COSTARICA — In July 2025, the United States passed the “Keep Call Centers in America Act.”
The law is designed to curb the offshoring of call center jobs and boost consumer protections. It requires companies to notify customers in advance if they outsource, reveal where their call center agents are located, and disclose any use of AI in customer interactions.
Additionally, businesses that move these jobs overseas won’t qualify for federal grants or loans.
This applies to companies with 50 or more call center workers.
So, what impact will this have on Costa Rica? And what challenges might workers there face?
If this passes, the companies with the tightest budgets or smallest profits might be the first to pull out of Costa Rica. Meanwhile, many firms will likely run cost-benefit analyses to decide if they should stay, which could boost remote work and coworking setups worldwide.
The law is still being reviewed in the Senate—it still has to be voted on and signed—so there’s no immediate threat. But it’s smart to start looking at options for investing or partnering with countries like France or Switzerland to be ready if things change.
Why does the U.S. need the Keep Call Centers in America Act?
The Keep Call Centers in America Act of 2025 is being proposed by a bipartisan group of U.S. Senators, including Senator Ruben Gallego (D-AZ) and Senator Jim Justice (R-WV).
Senator Gallego highlights on his webpage that call centers are a significant part of the American economy, employing about 3 million customer service representatives nationwide, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).
Lately, many call centers have moved their operations overseas or shrunk their presence in the U.S. The BLS predicts this trend could lead to the loss of 150,000 call center jobs in America by 2033.
At the same time, companies are cutting costs by replacing human workers with automated phone systems and chatbots, which often means customers get lower-quality service. A survey from Data for Progress found that 70% of Americans get frustrated when they have to deal with automated systems instead of live agents.
Q COSTARICA — Every time you tap your phone, start up an electric car, or get online, you’re relying on something tiny: a semiconductor, smaller than your fingernail.
Costa Rica was all set to join the booming semiconductor industry. It looked promising when the Biden administration named Costa Rica a strategic partner and promised funding to help build out the country’s role in the global chip supply chain.
The plan—at least under Biden—was all about nearshoring and friendshoring, moving production closer to the U.S. and away from heavy dependence on places like China. Chips aren’t just another product; they’re a big deal for global power.
Everything changed when Donald Trump took office. His “America First” approach, new tariffs, and focus on bringing investment directly to the U.S. hit pause on Costa Rica’s semiconductor dreams. That’s the consensus from experts, professors, and former trade ministers.
It’s not that the U.S. wants out of the chip race. It’s just that Trump wants the whole industry anchored on American soil.
“Rather than saying the opportunities have vanished, it’s more accurate to say they’re on hold. There’s an immediate effect—any big shock like this makes investors take a breath and wait. That’s where we are now,” said Marco Vinicio Ruiz, a former foreign trade minister.
No one really knows how long this uncertainty will last. It might be a year, or it could stretch all the way through Trump’s term until 2029.
“Lots of companies are feeling squeezed right now,” Ruiz added. “They’ll push lawmakers to find some middle ground and clear things up. That’s in everyone’s best interest. I’d guess we’re looking at about 12 months.”
Demand for microchips isn’t slowing down. Cars, medical devices, manufacturing, IT—almost every major industry needs them. That means the semiconductor field offers great job prospects and good pay, everywhere.
It’s a field hungry for skilled people: electricians, electronics experts, electromechanics, mechatronics specialists, industrial engineers, IT workers, and computer scientists. If Costa Rica wants in, it needs to build a workforce ready for the challenge.
Costa Rica is not competing in the fabrication of chips, but rather in the assembly, testing, and packaging (ATP) of semiconductors, which is a critical phase in the global supply chain.
Costa Rica has a strong track record and boasts a highly educated workforce with expertise in STEM fields, which is crucial for the complex processes involved in semiconductor assembly and testing.
Costa Rica also has a strong record of hosting multinational companies like Intel, Qorvo, Teradyne, and National Instruments in its semiconductor sector, which has been growing since the 1990s
Don’t Count Costa Rica Out
The current picture isn’t great, but experts quoted by La República say Costa Rica shouldn’t give up.
“The semiconductor sector is part of the broader, modern manufacturing world—it’s closely related to medical devices, which are still strong here,” said Eduardo Escalante, director of the Electrical Engineering Cluster at Fidélitas University. “We need to keep building up a skilled workforce for these industries.”
Economic analyst Daniel Suchar stressed that Costa Rica has to keep improving its business climate, both to protect the investment already here and attract more in the future.
“Costa Rica needs to keep making itself more competitive globally. That means approving flexible work schedules, lowering electricity costs, streamlining social security contributions, cutting out non-tariff barriers on raw materials, and making low-cost financing easier to get. The exchange rate and interest rates are key here,” Suchar explained.
Former minister Ruiz, for his part, is hopeful that international pressure on tariffs and moves by other world powers will eventually help change the situation.
RICO’S Q — In a message for Nicaragua’s Independence Day (September 15), United States Secretary of State Marco Rubio reaffirmed that the U.S. will continue to support the Nicaraguan people’s struggle to end repression and restore democracy.
Rubio stated that both those who remain in Nicaragua and those forced into exile “deserve to live without fear of persecution or reprisals,” and that Washington will continue to support the demands for a free, just, and democratic Nicaragua.
This statement comes amid strong international criticism of the Daniel Ortega and Rosario Murillo regime, accused of repressing opponents, religious leaders, civil organizations, and the media.
Since the 2018 protests, more than 300 people have died, and arbitrary arrests, exiles, and the closure of hundreds of NGOs and universities have been reported.
On this national anniversary, the international community once again emphasizes that freedom and democracy in Nicaragua are a right, not a privilege.
Maybe you mean well, Mr. Rubio. But honestly, being Secretary of State seems more about appearances than real influence.
The big calls get made way above your head, and you don’t get much of a vote.
Nicaraguans don’t need foreign politicians like Marco Rubio spreading lies or trying to manipulate them.
Nicaragua celebrates their Independence Day on September 15th each year, marking the anniversary of the country’s liberation from Spanish rule in 1821.
Alongside other Central American nations—Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, and Honduras—Nicaragua gained its independence through a formal declaration signed in Guatemala City.
The day is celebrated with parades, traditional music and dance, and patriotic ceremonies throughout the country. But compared to other countries in the isthmus, Nicaragua’s Independence Day tends to be more subdued and less carefree.
Students often participate in marching bands and colorful processions, and the national flag is displayed proudly in homes and public spaces.
Independence Day is a major holiday in Nicaragua, symbolizing national pride and the country’s long-standing quest for self-determination.
RICO’s Q — A video from the Ministerio de Obras Públicas y Transportes (MOPT) puts it this way: if you took all three million cars on Costa Rican roads and lined them up, the line of traffic would stretch for 8,000 kilometers—enough to reach from San José all the way to Alaska.
Transportation officials urge us to drive less: “For short trips, try walking, cycling, or taking public transport.”
But let’s flip that around for a second.
If we actually had a reliable public transportation system—which is MOPT’s job in the first place—most of us wouldn’t need to rely on our cars.
Imagine a metro. Buses and trains running 24/7. Real connections across the country.
Here’s a wild thought: what if the MOPT started by asking what people in Costa Rica actually need from their transportation system, and then built out solutions from there?
Q COSTARICA — Costa Rica is the country with the largest increase in foreign millionaires in Latin America over the last decade, according to a ranking of high-net-worth individuals.
According to the “Private Wealth Migration 2025” report, prepared by the consulting firm Henley & Partners, the growth rate has been 76% over the last 10 years, placing the country sixth in the world ranking.
The London-based consulting firm, which markets passport and residence permit programs in more than 40 countries, estimates that some 8,400 wealthy foreigners have emigrated to the Central American country and projects that approximately 350 more will arrive this year.
The analysis defines a millionaire as someone with assets exceeding US$1 million in “liquid assets” (assets and securities that can be easily converted into cash, such as stocks, funds in bank accounts, certificates of deposit, or bonds), excluding other assets such as property.
While the report considers the increase in these expatriates over the last decade, the great migratory surge in Costa Rica occurred after the pandemic, a milestone that marked a before and after in the flow of millionaires to the country, says Andrés Riggioni, managing partner of The Agency Costa Rica, a real estate firm focused on the luxury market.
This has been reflected in a boom in the construction or purchase of luxury properties and rapidly rising real estate prices, especially in coastal areas, with properties doubling in value in just a year or two.
Known as the “pandemic effect” on wealth flows, Riggioni points out, there has been a global shift in mentality for those with the freedom and funds to live in the country of their choice.
In that sense, he explains, it is currently more difficult to define the concept of residency, when people have multiple passports and move from one place to another.
Although there are wealthy foreigners who have come to live more permanently in Costa Rica, those who fall into the “millionaire” category, according to the Henley & Partners study, are individuals who “do not reside in one place,” Riggioni tells BBC Mundo.
These are people who can live half the year in their Costa Rican residence and the rest of the time in other countries.
Given the difficulty in accessing information about an individual’s net worth and the difficulties in determining a person’s tax residency (as opposed to their place of work or temporary residence), the report has been criticized for its methodology and the use of some data obtained from sources such as LinkedIn to track individuals’ locations.
Some experts believe the study should also include the properties owned by these millionaires to estimate their fortunes, as it has done in previous editions.
Regardless, the growing number of millionaires who obtain residency visas and investor visas in Costa Rica is a widely debated topic in the country, as are the consequences this trend has had on the real estate market and the rest of Costa Rican society.
Citizen movements have even emerged to oppose what they describe as an “invasion” of wealthy foreigners in the country’s coastal areas.
What is the profile of these foreign millionaires residing in Costa Rica?
Those who have been moving to Costa Rica are mainly from the United States and Canada, although Europeans and, increasingly, Latin Americans from countries like Mexico, Colombia, and Venezuela are also arriving.
Among the expats with large fortunes, there are not only retirees. There are also the “semi-retired,” individuals who are not involved in the day-to-day operations of their companies, but who oversee them remotely and can live off their income.
The semi-retired group includes people over 40 who do not need to work and who dedicate themselves to managing their investments.
Some of them are part of the new wave of crypto-millionaires whose investments in cryptocurrencies have allowed them to create gigantic fortunes in just a few years.
An example of the arrival of affluent young people is the case of a coastal town called Santa Teresa, known to some as “Silicon Beach,” where there are no more beachfront properties for sale, after it became a magnet for millionaires and investors, Riggioni tells BBC Mundo.
The Tax System and the Golden Visa
Andrew Amoils, head of research at New World Wealth, which collaborated on the study published by Henley & Partners, says that one of Costa Rica’s advantages for millionaires is its tax system.
The country does not tax capital gains earned abroad. For example, profits earned from stocks on Wall Street are not taxed in Costa Rica.
Furthermore, the top income tax rate of 25% “is relatively low,” the analyst tells BBC Mundo, and the country does not charge inheritance tax.
Costa Rica has been on and off the list of tax havens compiled by the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD).
Consulting firms such as Offshore Protection point out that while Costa Rica is not considered a pure tax haven, the country offers attractive financial incentives that have been compared to Switzerland, for both individuals and corporations, making it “a favorable destination for those seeking to optimize their tax situation.”
The tax system and “the country’s strong banking privacy laws” make Costa Rica an attractive country for investors and high-net-worth individuals.
Along with financial privacy, the country is in the top 10 for golden visas for foreigners with residency rights. One of the ways to obtain one is to invest at least US$150,000 in real estate, a very easy condition to meet for those with large fortunes.
The country is also considered safe, has well-established luxury neighborhoods, and a high standard of living compared to other Latin American countries. Added to this, says Amoils, are the lifestyle, beaches, landscapes, birds, and tropical forests.
“We expect organic farms to take off over the next decade,” something that could further attract high-income individuals, he adds.
However, the security situation has changed in recent years.
A report by the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) published in June warned that insecurity in the country has increased.
“The increase in violence and crime could negatively affect tourism and foreign direct investment,” the publication notes.
And a few weeks ago, the Center for Tourism Studies (CET) reported that citizen insecurity has become the main risk to tourism development, reflecting that Costa Rica is facing a deterioration in its image as a safe destination, a characteristic that for decades has been one of the country’s main attractions.
Guanacaste: Icon of Boom and Local Population Displacement
There are many areas of the country that have served as magnets for wealth.
On the western side of the Central Valley are the cantons of Escazú and Santa Ana, while on the coastal areas are towns that have experienced explosive growth, such as Nosara, in the province of Guanacaste.
And Guanacaste itself has become the icon of this millionaire boom. In 2024, for the first time, the province, which has its own international airport, was the area with the greatest growth in construction projects in the country.
Data from the Observatory of Tourism, Migration, and Sustainable Development of the Chorotega Region of the National University of Costa Rica showed that between 2017 and 2023, property prices rose by up to 400%, a period that includes the “pandemic effect” on the real estate sector.
According to Esteban Barboza Núñez, coordinator of the study, the increase in property values in the province “has increased the price of food and rent, which, evidently, primarily affects lower-income people.”
Bubbles of sorts have emerged within local economies, says Daniela Córdoba, researcher and professor at the School of Economics at the University of Costa Rica, in an interview with BBC Mundo.
Guanacaste is part of the Chorotega Region, where 24.5% of the population lives in poverty. The emergence of these luxury housing bubbles in poor areas often leads to the displacement of the local population, explains Córdoba, who is affected by a process of gentrification.
Community organizations have held peaceful street protests against gentrification, demanding greater regulation of land access and property acquisition to protect local communities.
“Guanacaste has the highest proportion of vacant homes in the entire country. However, one in ten Guanacastecans has been forced to live in informal settlements,” wrote Isabel Muñoz Beaulieu, an expert in public health and development policy, in an opinion piece.
Many Guanacaste residents complain that luxury construction has not improved local infrastructure or generated quality, sustainable jobs. Furthermore, it has had negative effects on the province’s scarce water resources.
Regional Overview
According to the report, the Latin American and Caribbean countries where the arrival of millionaires has grown the most in the last decade are Costa Rica, Panama, and the Cayman Islands.
Costa Rica 72%
Panama 69%
Cayman Islands 62%
Bermuda 51%
Mexico 16%
On the other hand, countries such as Colombia, Brazil, and Argentina have seen a decline in the migration of high-net-worth individuals to their countries.
In the rest of the world, the ranking of increases in the arrival of millionaires in the last decade is led by Montenegro, the United Arab Emirates, Malta, the United States, China, and Costa Rica.
Q COSTARICA — Such a beautiful country had to have banknotes that represent it.
The ₡1000 bill features the Tropical Dry Forest
In Costa Rica, the tropical dry forest covers the lowlands, 0–700 meters above sea level (masl), of the province of Guanacaste and the northern part of Puntarenas. To the south, around the Tárcoles River, it gradually changes as climatic conditions favor the establishment of the tropical rainforest.
The fauna of this forest is as rich as its flora. It is home to howler monkeys, spider monkeys, and white-faced monkeys, deer, coatis, peccaries, raccoons, semi-spiny mice, agoutis, pumas, armadillos, magpies, trogons, parrots, parakeets, and a wide variety of insects and spiders, among other groups.
The ₡2000 bill depicts the coral reef
Costa Rica has living and fossil coral reefs of varying ages in various locations throughout its territory. In the Caribbean, they are found in Moín, Limón, Uvita Island, Cahuita, Puerto Viejo, Manzanillo, and Punta Mona. In the Pacific, they are found mainly in Culebra Bay, the Pelonas Islands, Sámara, Dominical, Punta Mala, Golfo Dulce, Caño Island, Marino Ballena National Park—the first marine park created in Costa Rica and Central America—and Cocos Island.
These ecosystems are found in coastal areas, with clear waters that allow light to pass through, warm (23-28°C), and shallow waters (less than 45 meters below sea level). They also require a stable surface, such as rocks, to adhere to. They can be found from near the beach to 2 or 3 kilometers offshore. Coral reefs are one of the most diverse, productive, and beautiful ecosystems in the world.
The ₡5,000 bill depicts the Mangrove
In the Costa Rican Pacific, mangroves are found mainly at the mouths of the Tempisque, Bebedero, Tárcoles, Parrita, Térraba, and Sierpe rivers, in the Gulfs of Papagayo, Nicoya, and Dulce, and in the bays of Santa Elena, Salinas, Tamarindo, and Herradura. On the Caribbean coast, they are located in Moín and the Gandoca Lagoon.
Mangroves occupy approximately 1% of the national territory. During high tide, these forests are flooded by saltwater; in the mangroves at river mouths, salinity decreases as it mixes with freshwater.
In Costa Rica, there are several species of mangrove, with common names such as red mangrove, pineapple mangrove, black mangrove, white mangrove, and buttonwood mangrove. Shells, crabs, snails, and shrimp and fish larvae live among their roots, forming a very complex community. The canopy of these forests is home to countless birds, including herons, kingfishers, and mangrove hummingbirds. Iguanas, snakes, white-faced monkeys, raccoons, lizards, and bats can be found in their branches.
The ₡10,000 banknote shows the Tropical Rainforest
The tropical rainforest is one of the most diverse and exuberant ecosystems in the world. In Costa Rica, it used to be the largest, found in the lowlands, up to 700 meters above sea level, and in very rainy areas such as the Central and South Pacific, the Northern Zone, and the Caribbean. Due to severe deforestation at the end of the last century, this forest is now highly fragmented, and its largest remnants are protected as national parks or biological reserves.
This ecosystem is a complex and dense forest, where trees reach heights of 40-55 meters. The trees are generally umbrella-shaped, with broad canopies and long trunks, often with tall, smooth, and slender branches.
This forest has a greater diversity of plants and animals per unit area than any other type of forest. More animal species can be found in a single tree in a tropical rainforest than in an entire forest at higher latitudes. The diverse forms of animal and plant life occupy a wide variety of specialized environments in the different forest strata.
The ₡20,000 banknote depicts the Páramo
The páramo is an ecosystem with varied mountain herbaceous vegetation, generally treeless—and if there are any, they are small, dense, and isolated—in cold, inhospitable, and humid environments.
The páramo is found mainly on the country’s highest peaks, above 2,800 meters above sea level, in the Cerro de la Muerte (Buenavista and Vueltas), Chirripó, and Kámuk mountains of the Talamanca Mountain Range. It is also found on the summits of the Irazú and Turrialba volcanoes in the Central Volcanic Range.
Páramo vegetation consists primarily of low-growing, small-leaved herbs and shrubs. Dwarf bamboos, such as chusquea, are abundant, as are grasses and ferns. In areas with poor drainage, small swamps called peat bogs form, made up of partially decomposed plant matter.
The páramos are home to various species of insects and spiders, some mammals such as rabbits and coyotes, two species of lizards, a salamander, and very common birds such as the volcano vulture, the junco, the scoter, the blackbird, and the corn eater. There are no fish, despite the abundance of lakes and streams.
Some animals reduce their metabolism to the point of not moving unless the sun is shining. At night, mammals from the nearby forests, such as mountain goats, pumas, and manigordos, frequently visit.
Q COSTARICA — The Costa Rican economy is advancing at two speeds. While the special regime and free trade zones are driving growth, local production—which represents 85% of GDP—is showing worrying stagnation, according to the Second Macroeconomic Projections Report 2025 from the International Center for Economic Policy for Sustainable Development at the National University (UNA).
The study, presented last week, projects GDP growth of 3.1% for 2025, driven by advanced manufacturing and high-tech services.
However, it warns that the traditional economy, which includes agriculture, construction, and trade, continues to lag. Therefore, it could widen the gap with the special regime in the coming years if measures are not taken.
This lag occurs in a context of inflation below the Central Bank’s target range (2%-4%), which keeps interest rates low and favors private consumption and investment.
However, the institution warns that tax revenues are growing more slowly than GDP and that tax collection has lost momentum, especially in income and VAT.
This situation puts pressure on the primary surplus, limiting the State’s ability to invest in infrastructure or programs that stimulate the domestic economy and close the gap between the special and definitive regimes.
The report is clear: Costa Rica’s growth increasingly depends on free trade zones, while the economy that generates most of the jobs for the national population is weakening.
For researchers, the great challenge is to reactivate the engine of local production and ensure that growth is more balanced and inclusive, generating greater employment opportunities for all sectors of the population.
Q COSTARICA — Former wunderkind and former Minister of Public Works and Transportation (MOPT), Luis Amador, delivered a pointed critique of President Rodrigo Chaves and his chosen successor, Laura Fernández. At the same time, he revealed that he plans to officially launch his own presidential campaign in two weeks.
In a video, the former minister (who served from May 2022 to March 2024) claimed he’s the real opposition to the current government. He argued that the criticism he faces comes from being seen as a threat to the administration’s plans to stay in power.
“Don Rodrigo, it’s me, Luis Amador, your former minister. Thanks to my efforts at the Ministry of Public Works (MOPT), I became the best known and best-reviewed, even more so than you at the time. That’s why you made up all these lies, but the truth is that the one who’s being smeared by your arguments is you,” Amador stated.
Chaves fired Amador for an alleged corruption case related to the Daniel Oduber Airport runway, which is still under investigation.
The former MOPT leader called Fernández a “puppet” and accused the ruling party of not being prepared to govern:
“Yes, Don Rodrigo, I, your worst nightmare, will be a candidate, because I know you well, and don’t even mention your apprentice and candidate Laura Fernández, your “yes man,” your puppet, who only wants to be like you, but how complicated. Laura Fernández is nothing like Rodrigo Chaves. You are not prepared to govern. Look at the mess you have Costa Rica in. Never again,” Amador concluded.
Amador, who unsuccessfully tried to be a candidate for the Partido Progreso Social Democrático (PPSD) and the Partido Unidad Social Cristiana (PUSC), asserted that he has the support of the public to challenge the ruling party for the presidency.
Last week, Amador had tough words for the president, publicly telling Chaves, “Be a man and waive your immunity.”
In a video, the former MOPT minister said: “Don Rodrigo, no one is above the law. Stop hiding behind your protective immunity. Culture Minister Jorge Rodríguez was more of a man when he waived his immunity. He who owes nothing, fears nothing. What are you worried about?”
President Chaves is under investigation for possible bribery tied to a US$405,800 contract between CABEI and RMC La Productora S.A. Authorities allege that presidential advisor Federico “Choreco” Cruz received a US$32,000 payment in connection with the deal. If found guilty, Chaves could face up to eight years in prison.
The legislative committee is set to decide on September 22 whether to remove Chaves’ presidential immunity.
Rodrigo Arias, President of the Legislative Assembly, has announced that he—and likely the whole Partido Liberación Nacional (PLN) bloc—intend to vote in favor of lifting immunity.
Q COSTARICA — Heavy rains on Saturday afternoon hit much of the greater metropolitan area (GAM), flooding streets to car level in some neighborhoods and forcing people from their homes in others.
In Guadalupe, Goicoechea, the damage was specifically reported on 19th Avenue and 25th Street. Incidents were also reported in Tibás and Moravia. All on the east side of the GAM.
“The main impacts are in Moravia due to sewage system saturation and landslides caused by ground saturation. All Municipal Emergency Committees are conducting assessments,” the Comisión Nacional de Emergencias (CNE) – National Emergency Commission stated.
Emergencies were also addressed in Escazú, as residents reported flooding after the Chiquero river burst its banks in the center of the canton.
The Costa Rican Red Cross deployed a specialized first-response unit, along with a basic ambulance and an advanced ambulance, to respond to the emergency.
Q COSTARICA — A new measure has been taken to increase control over imports from outlet stores, aduanas (customs) detaining all containers to verify compliance with regulations.
Business closures, product seizures, and criminal charges will be part of the measures against those who break the law in the trade of imported goods.
The Treasury confirmed that more than 480 outlet importers, both formal and informal, will be impacted by the announced controls and sanctions.
Weak customs oversight allows containers packed with products considered “garbage” elsewhere to enter Costa Rica and end up for sale in outlet stores.
Government officials have admitted this. When 23 outlets were inspected last May, only one had all the required permits and provided proper user protections, such as accurate product labeling and warranties. Meanwhile, two outlets were shut down, and their unregistered goods were seized.
“Customs must fulfill its duty, and whoever brings in the container has to wait. Those bringing it should be concerned; there will likely be criminal charges and legal protection appeals,” stated Juan Carlos Gómez Sánchez, Director General of Aduanas, who warned that the process will be rigorously enforced.
The director clarified, “The objective is clear: to combat smuggling, protect the formal economy, and guarantee fair conditions for all merchants. It’s about enforcing the law, but also defending those who do comply. Unfair competition affects the entire commercial chain and the end consumer.”
The Treasury’s offensive is not limited to customs controls.
A new sanction went into effect on August 15th, establishing the temporary closure of establishments for 15 calendar days when non-compliance with regulations is detected.
This includes confiscation of merchandise and administrative sanctions for resistance.
In addition to Customs and Taxation, the Ministry of Health and the Ministry of Economy, Industry, and Commerce (MEIC) are participating in the operations in a coordinated effort to ensure compliance with the regulations.
The Costa Rican Chamber of Foreign Trade and Representatives of Foreign Trade Companies (CRECEX) backs the Ministry of Finance and the General Directorate of Customs application of tighter controls on imports by outlet stores.
CRECEX sees these steps as necessary to make sure customs rules are properly followed, to crack down on issues like under-invoicing, and to guarantee that goods are accurately classified and declared.
For CRECEX, open and fair trade means everyone plays by the same rules. This keeps the market level and protects importers who meet their legal responsibilities from unfair competition.
The Chamber also emphasizes the need for traceability and thorough documentation throughout the import process. This approach helps build legal certainty, improves tax collection, and strengthens consumer trust.
Costa Rican imports reached a volume of US$23.7 billion in 2024, according to data from the Ministry of Foreign Trade (COMEX). Import trade represents 32% of the country’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP), making customs operations a critical component of the economy.
Q COSTARICA — In Costa Rica, most people have just one cell phone line, but it’s not unusual for some to have two or three. While many Costa Ricans stick with a single line for personal use, some—especially those who travel for work or want to take advantage of different carrier deals—carry two or more lines.
So, how can you tell if cellphone lines have been taken out in your name without your consent?
This week, El Observador shared the story of a woman living in Vásquez de Coronado who discovered that 18 prepaid cell phone lines had been set up under her name without her knowledge.
It started on July 23, when she visited the Kölbi (a division of State telecom ICE) office in her area to switch her personal prepaid line to a postpaid plan. But the employee helping her found something odd: just that day, 16 lines had been registered in her name—on top of the one she actually used.
She immediately asked for those extra lines to be canceled.
A couple of weeks later, on September 5, she went back to the same state-run phone company. That’s when she learned that two more lines had been added using her identity.
Altogether, 18 lines had been fraudulently registered in her name.
The woman filed a complaint with ICE, though, as the State agency hasn’t responded yet, she plans to file a complaint with the Organismo de Investigación Judicial (OIJ).
How do you know if cell phone lines have been taken out in your name, without your consent?
According to the Regulation on the End-User Protection of the Superintendency of Telecommunications (Sutel), operators are required to provide this information.
However, the consultation must be done in person at one of the end-use service centers, and with proper identification. That is, the person must visit each company in person, confirm their identity, and thus find out if lines have been issued in their name.
Sutel insists that “users of telecommunications services have the right to consult their operators about the number of active services they have with their provider.” What Sutel doesn’t mention, though, is how you’re supposed to deal with the long lines that are almost always waiting at customer service centers.
In the case of ICE Kölbi, the state operator says a rigorous process is followed for granting a line.
“Before granting a prepaid line or chip, strict information verification controls are applied. This allows us to remain virtually free from identity theft fraud, as well as the corresponding sanctions,” ICE told El Observador, emphasizing that thanks to these controls, they say identity theft fraud is almost nonexistent—and so are the penalties that come with it.
As to the Sutel, they say the regulations are clear regarding the obligations that operators have when registering users.
“SUTEL’s powers include analyzing compliance with the obligations of telecommunications service operators, whose potential noncompliance could lead to the commission of fraud,” the institution stated.
The OIJ, in response to the growing trend of fraud using cell phone lines (Criminals steal cell phones and withdraw money via Sinpe), has recently questioned the ease with which a cell phone line is obtained in Costa Rica and the limited follow-up they provide to the data of those who have removed these chips.
How to Protect Yourself Against Cell Phone Fraud in Costa Rica?
Cell phone fraud isn’t just a big-city problem—it happens everywhere, and Costa Rica is no exception. Whether you’re a tourist soaking up the beaches or a local going about your day, scammers know how to find their targets.
The good news? A bit of common sense and a few practical steps can go a long way.
First, always keep your phone locked with a strong password or biometric security. Don’t rely on a simple four-digit code—make it something that can’t be guessed. If your phone supports fingerprint or facial recognition, use it.
Watch out for calls or texts from unknown numbers, especially those claiming to be from banks, government agencies, or delivery services.
In Costa Rica, it’s common for scammers to pose as the police (“OIJ”) or as representatives of local banks like Banco Nacional or Banco de Costa Rica. They might say there’s a “problem with your account” or that you’ve “won a prize.”
Don’t take the bait—legitimate institutions will never ask for your personal information over the phone or by text.
Never share your passwords, PINs, or verification codes with anyone. If someone asks, even if they sound convincing, hang up and call the official number of the institution to double-check.
If you use mobile banking, enable two-factor authentication (2FA). Most Costa Rican banks now offer this feature, and it’s a solid extra layer of protection. Also, avoid using public Wi-Fi for sensitive transactions—wait until you’re on a secure, private connection.
Keep your phone’s software up to date. Security patches are there for a reason, and outdated apps or operating systems are easy targets for hackers.
Finally, if your phone is stolen, contact your carrier immediately to block your SIM card and report the theft to the police.
In Costa Rica, you can also register your phone’s IMEI number with the regulator (SUTEL), which can help prevent it from being used on local networks. You will need your phone’s EMEI. You can find your phone’s unique IMEI number by dialing #06# on your phone’s keypad.
Stay smart, stay skeptical, and don’t let your guard down just because you’re in paradise. Scammers never take a vacation.
