Costa Rican coffee exports fell 9.6% in December, the country’s national coffee institute – Instituto del Café de Costa Rica: ICAFE – reported.
Exports in December reached 35,790 60-kg bags, down from 39,576 bags during the same month in the previous year.
The monthly fall in coffee shipments from Costa Rica, one of Central America’s smaller producers but known for its high-quality beans, was smaller in percentage terms, however, compared with dips in November and October, in which exports fell by 30% and 55%, respectively.
During the first three months of the current 2019/2020 harvesting season, Costa Rican coffee exports totaled 61,417 bags, or down nearly 27% compared to the same three-month period during the previous 2018/2019 season, according to ICAFE data.
During the 2018/2019 season, the country exported 1.06 million bags, down about 13% compared to the previous cycle.
The coffee season in Central America and Mexico, which together produce about a fifth of the world’s arabica beans, runs from October through September.
Electric vehicle in France inspired by the rainforest of Costa Rica
Costa Rica got into 2019 on European catwalks, fashion items, French cuisine, public roads, buses, electric cars, trams and subway stations. Also in film festivals, television programs, biodiversity conservation gardens, sporting events, and social networks.
Costa Rica’s image was on public roads, subway stations, and trams, television shows, catwalks, festivals, gastronomic workshops and sporting events in Europe, Canada, and the United States.
This “Only the Essentials,” tourism campaign by the Instituto Costarricense de Turismo (ICT) – Costa Rican Tourism Board – featured in 151 special projects in priority markets in the United States, Canada, and Europe, to position the country as a tourist destination.
Last year, the Costa Rican Tourism Board launched “Only the Essentials,” a worldwide tourism campaign meant to brand the country as “an opportunity to connect with the essence of life: nature, well-being, culture and adventure.”
The campaign has been a success. Tourism Minister María Amalia Revelo estimates that the country will close 2019 with a 5% growth in international arrivals by air.
Minister Revelo reaffirmed that “our responsibility and commitment is to manage this tourist success, which boosts our economy and is a generator of employment of great importance for the country.”
Tourism is one of the main engines of the country’s economy. According to the ICT and Banco Central (Central Bank of Costa Rica), the tourism industry directly accounts for 6.3% of the national economy and 1.9% indirectly, which adds up to 8.2% of the Gross Domestic Product (GDP).
In addition, almost 9% (8.8%) of the country’s total employment comes directly from tourism. Combined with the productive linkages and indirect employment the industry generates, it represents the main source of income for thousands of Costa Rican families.
During the first half of 2019, the country saw 1,549,812 international arrivals by air, the main source of visitors to the country, of which, 65% came from the United States and Canada.
“Only the essentials” reintroduces travelers to the Costa Rica Essential brand and the promise of experiencing a connection with nature, with their peers and with themselves on their visit to our country.
“Only the Essential” yn New York
The campaign was accompanied by a variety of activations in Chicago and New York as the installation of an interactive container that offered New Yorkers a 24-hour sensory experience of the Costa Rican rainforest in the middle of Brookfield Place and a massive tasting of Costa Rican coffee (2,000 cups) distributed with the help of two bicycles decorated with the art of typical carts on the international day of that drink.
Breaking paradigms
In Europe, it was a year to break paradigms in Germany, Switzerland, Holland, Spain, the United Kingdom, France, and Italy.
Electric vehicle in France inspired by the rainforest of Costa Rica
Some of the promotion projects promoted this year in these priority markets were the:
The Eden Project in the United Kingdom
The “Pura Vida 2020” collection at the Ifema Events Center in Madrid, inspired by our flora and fauna and complemented by accessories made by Costa Rican artisans
Among the 24 projects implemented in France, the transformation of 368 electric vehicles into mobile rain forests with elements of Costa Rican biodiversity stands out
One of the 36 special projects developed in Germany was a strategic alliance with the sportswear brand Salomon, very popular among those who practice outdoor activities.
The Taylor Morris Eyewear brand launched its Costa Rica collection, a limited edition of 200 pairs of sunglasses. The designers, who visited the country to be inspired, will allocate 15% of sales to the Las Pumas Rescue Center in Cañas, Guanacaste.
FITUR Fair in Spain
Costa Rica’s image abroad is also consolidated through the coverage of international media through reports, articles, and documentaries about the country.
Following recommendations from public relations agencies hired by ICT in North America and Europe, in 2019, targeted for the campaign were 324 journalists mainly from Europe and Latin America, as well as 65 from the United States and Canada.
Costa Rica ranks last among the 50 richest countries in the world, according to GOBankingRates. The annual GDP per capita, that is, the result of dividing the total production of a country in a year, among its number of inhabitants, is US$11,810.08
Image for illustrative purposes from La Republica
According to GoBankingRates, Costa Rica’s GDP is propped up by exports of a host of agricultural products, including bananas, pineapples, coffee, and melons. Medical devices is another important industry for the country.
The richest nation globally it is Luxembourg, with a GDP per capita greater than US$105,000
GOBankingRates conducted its study with data from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA), ranking the 50 top economies in the world. Data is accurate as of August 5, 2019, and is subject to change.
In Central America, topping Costa Rica is Panama (44) with a GDP per capita of $15,198.09; across Latin America, Chile (45) with a GDP per capita of $15,127.76, and Argentina (46) with a GDP per capita of $14.264.25.
Richest countries (GDP per capita in thousands of dollars):
Angie Gabriela Quirós Navarro, 23 years of age, a resident of Lomas de Quircot, San Nicolás de Cartago, is the first homicide of 2020.
From Facebook
According to the Organismo de Investigación Judicial (OIJ), the incident occurred in the first minutes of the year, killed by gunfire gone unnoticed, confused with the noise of the fireworks celebrating the new year.
At that time, the woman was on a public road with two men, when a third arrived in a vehicle and argued, at gunpoint, with one of the men.
It was then that the gun was fired and the bullet hit the young woman in the head.
Authorities presume the woman was not the subject of the attack.
In social networks, those close to Quirós lamented her death and showed their solidarity with the mother of the deceased, who was looking after the woman’s two children, a five and two year old.
The homicide occurred in Cot de Oreamuno, Cartago, about nine kilometers south of Quircot de San Nicolás, where the young woman lived.
At the moment there are no people detained for this murder, but the OIJ of Carthage works on collecting clues that help determine who perpetrated it.
Last year there were a total of 560 homicides, 25 less than in 2018.
Six people (four tourists and two crew) were rescued on Thursday afternoon after a sailboat named Polar Hunter caught fire in its entirety, some two kilometers from Playa Ocotal, Guanacaste.
The 30 foot fiberglass boat was fully engulfed in flames
Martín Arias, general director of the National Coast Guard Service, said, “In the end, we found that there were six passengers, of which two are Costa Ricans, the crew and four from the United States on board the 30-foot (9.1 meter) fiberglass sailboat. They were helped by a boat that was near the area. Then they were transferred to Playas del Coco.”
The official added that the boat used to transport tourists in that area caught fire completely.
“Our Coast Guard vessels, mainly a Coast Guard interceptor boat from the Flamingo station, tried to fight the fire a little, but there was a lot of fire. Being fiberglass it was very difficult to put it out (the fire)”.
The black smoke could be seen from kilometers away/ Foto Andrés Gutiérrez / LN
The official added the Coast Guard responded in less than 12 minutes from the alert. “Responding was also the Fuerza Publica (police) and Air Surveillance, in case the situation was more complicated,” added Arias.
The cause of the fire is under investigation, the Fire Department suspect an electrical short circuit.
Witnesses said the dense black cloud could be a distance, including the beaches of Hermosa and Panama, located in Culebra bay.
The passengers and crew did not suffer any injuries, they were brought back to shore by private boats in the area of the incident.
Homicides in 2019 decreased in almost the entire country, including in Limón, except in the provinces of Puntarenas and Guanacaste, where they increased.
Nothing to see here. Police officer in crowd crown control during the dual murder in Alajuelita last November.
2019 closed with 560 murders nationwide, 25 less than in 2018, when there were 585.
However, that was not the case in Puntarenas and Guanacaste, where each province recorded a higher number of murders over the previous year.
Puntarenas had 75 homicides in 2019, 18 more than in 2018; while Guanacaste had 38 murders, 17 more than in the year before.
In Limón, a province with usually high incidents of homicides, the numbers remained identical, 114 murders, the same in 2018.
Meanwhile, the provinces of San Jose, Alajuela, Cartago and Heredia saw a reduction.
Source OIJ. Graphic La Nacion
Michael Soto, the Minister of Public Security, said, “The entire Pacific coast has vulnerabilities from a social point of view. Lack of employment, infrastructure problems, unemployment. It is also an area used for international drug trafficking. The circumstances generate violence and a problem that we have to work on.
“From a security point of view, we are going to look for strategies to reduce the figures in these two provinces. However, a more comprehensive approach is required to attack social problems.”
That coincides with the director of the Organismo de Investigación Judicial (OIJ) – Judicial Investigation Agency – Wálter Espinoza, for whom it is vital to review the numbers and, from that, execute joint strategies to reduce the numbers in this 2020.
“We are concerned about the case of Puntarenas, where there is a huge increase in the number of homicides. We have a report that the social situation in the province is not the best, that there are unemployment problems, youth gangs and, in general, social problems that could be a trigger for more homicides,” said Espinoza.
Costa Rica’s murder rate in 2019 closed at 11.07 homicides per 100,000 inhabitants. In countries like El Salvador, it reached 50; Honduras at 42.8 and Mexico and Colombia, 24.
For both Soto and Espinoza, the decrease in Costa Rica last year is important, but it also entails challenges to continue lowering the numbers in the future.
Both security officials attribute the mail cause homicides in Costa Rica to the settling of scores between gangs, followed by revenge, quarrels, while in the commission of another crime, and domestic violence.
According to the data, firearms are the most used (63.4%) in committing homicides, followed by a knife – arma blanca in Spanish – (19.5%) and other weapons (17.1%).
Payments from the State to a company that obtains a service concession would ensure profitability and access for users is one of three subsidy models for the intercity electric train fares being studied by the Instituto Costarricense de Ferrocarriles (Incofer) – Costa Rican Railroad Institute – and the Central government.
Image for illustrative purposes
Elizabeth Briceño, executive president of the Incofer, explained that they have studied at least three subsidy models that are implemented in other rail systems in the world.
1. The first is to offer the concessionaire a minimum income with a defined rate. In this case, the State would assume the risk of paying the difference, if the operator does not achieve that defined amount in ridership.
With this state subsidy, the profitability of the project would also be guaranteed to the concessionaire, which must assume most of the investment.
2. The second alternative is to hire the company for availability, that is, the company charges for available spaces, whether used or not. The State would have to periodically subsidize the concessionaire to operate the new transport service, to ensure that the rates are accessible to users.
This modality is the one that is being quoted in the latest metro project in Bogotá, Colombia. The advantage is that the State, through public policy, can incentivize the use of the mass transit with packaged or special rates.
3. The third option is a subsidy system for the number of passengers transported, that is, only for the spaces actually used.
“It is a shared modality. The risk of the demand is on the concessionaire, but also the State so that it can have public policies to incentivize the train,” said the head of the Incofer.
According to the feasibility studies, the project would cost US$1.236 billion dollars, with the State contributing at least US$550 million dollars to make it viable.
The development contemplates that the electric train runs 85 kilometers of double track through 15 cantons of the Greater Metropolitan Area (GAM), from Coyol, in Alajuela (west of the international airport) to Paraíso, in Cartago.
The electric train project by the numbers
The initial promise of the Government is that there be 46 stations, some 1.8 kilometers apart, with a frequency of services of between three and five minutes.
“Rail systems are not supported by fees. They are not supported by fares either here, or in Manhattan, or in Europe. Imagine if the most important cities in the world disconnect their passenger rail system, it would be total chaos. Well, we already live (in the GAM) in that chaos, what happens is that we have not realized what it is like to live better,” Federico Villalobos, an economist at Deloitte and expert in financing, evaluation, and analysis of infrastructure projects.
For Villalobos, there must be a balance in the numbers so that public transport is sustainable for state finances, and make it attractive so that national and international private companies are interested in competing in the concession.
The main problem of the current train (commuter train) is that fares have no direct subsidy from the State and does not cover the operating expenses of the system. To sustain it, the Government must make direct payments to the Incofer.
This train, which operates on combustible fuel, mover at least three million passengers every year, and operates only on weekdays during mornings and afternoons. According to the Incofer, the majority of users are university students and blue-collar workers.
“We cannot think that we must have multimillion-dollar works because if the people have to pay it, socially it will have a rate that is not acceptable, as what happened with OAS (failed concession of the road to San Ramón),” said Rodolfo Méndez, transport minister.
In 2014, the State had to pay the Brazilian company US$35 million as compensation for breach of the contract, given the discontent of the communities on the west side of the Central Valley with the toll rates proposed.
The electric train project is being coordinated by the office of the first lady, Claudia Dobles, indicating it expects to send the bill to the Legislative Assembly in the first quarter of 2020.
This initiative of law will contemplate the business model, both in capital investment and in operating expenses. Legislators will also have to debate the US$550 million loan approved by the Central American Bank for Economic Integration Development (CABEI).
The electric train is one of the various proposals by the Carlos Alvarado administration response to the growing traffic congestion in the Central Valley.
Authorities in the Argentine capital of Buenos Aires last week shut down an old theater that charged 100 Argentine pesos (about US$2), to view erotic films and participate in sex parties inside the facility.
Photo Youtube/Cuidad Imagenes
Buenos Aires police, along with the Judicial Investigation Corps and the Government Control Agency, closed the site on building code and health violations.
Police said they found a room inside the theater with used condoms on the floor, where visitors took part in sexual activities, along with at least eight pieces of rolled-up marijuana cigarettes.
The theater, which had a license to work as an independent cinema, had been closed for similar violations in 2016.
Local media reported that the small theater was an affiliate of the old ABC theater, once Buenos Aires’s most famous platform for erotic films.
4.4 tonnes of cocaine worth US$1 billion dollars were found in containers with soybeans in the port of Montevideo, Uruguay’s capital. Later, another ton was confiscated in a joint operation of security forces in the region of Soriano.
The 4,417.7 kilograms of cocaine was destined for Lome in Togo, West Africa, Uruguay’s authorities said adding it is “the biggest drug confiscation in the history of the country”.
This is not the first big cocaine haul seized in Uruguay. Late November more than three tonnes of the drug were confiscated in the country’s capital.
???? COCAINA | Incautación histórica de cocaína en Uruguay: son más de 5 toneladas. Un Empresario y su hijo se entregaron y están ante la Justicia, más 2 empleados fueron detenidos y son trasladados a Montevideo ???????? pic.twitter.com/Pt5qvCZhjk
Former Bolivian President Evo Morales has not given up his political activity after fleeing the country. Argentine political analyst Gonzalo Fiore Viani has explained how Buenos Aires sees Morales’ attempts to maintain control over the situation in Bolivia and how the Fernandez government could mediate tensions in the country.
Evo Morales
“I’ll be back,” ousted Bolivian leader Evo Morales told Reuters before Christmas, pledging to return to the country in a year. He is currently residing in Argentina where he moved from Mexico being granted political asylum by the new government of Alberto Fernandez.
On December 19, 2019, the Argentine president announced that Buenos Aires “will not hand over for any reason” Morales after the Bolivian Prosecutor’s Office sent the former president an arrest warrant, accusing him of sedition and terrorism.
Jeanine Anez, who took the reins of the Bolivian government after Evo Morales had been expelled by the military and right-wing opposition in November, has repeatedly accused the former president of plotting unrest from exile.
Morales Stepping Up Political Activism in Argentina
Being forced to resign on November 10, Morales immediately went to Mexico, the first that granted him asylum. However, on December 12, the former Bolivian president left for Argentina, where he “felt more comfortable”, according to Argentina’s Foreign Minister Felipe Sola.
The asylum provided by Buenos Aires to Morales didn’t come without strings: Sola specified that the Argentine government does not want Evo Morales nor any other refugees to use the country as a staging ground for political activity, and advised against making public statements.
However, the very next day, the former Bolivian leader issued a harsh statement on Twitter lambasting the Anez government for what he called the aim to privatize and sell out the country’s strategic companies to transnational corporations.
International Living has published its list The World’s Best Places to Retire in 2020, listing the top 10 places where you can quit your job and live abroad today, of places so cheap you might be able to stop working.
Enjoying the view from the steps leading to the coastal village of Azenhas do Mar in Portugal. Getty
The list by International Living, which releases an Annual Global Retirement Index of the top places to retire, is not limited to retirees: It’s also for people who want to relocate to a place where the cost of living is much cheaper than in the United States, “so cheap, in fact, that you might not have to work”, and/or invest.
International Living’s editors, in preparing its Annual Global Retirement Index, systematically gather and sift through the wealth of opportunity the world offers, comparing, contrasting, ranking and rating their findings to help potential expats pinpoint the best-value destinations around the world.
“We strive to create an Index that provides the most accurate—and useful—insights for readers,” says International Living’s executive editor Jennifer Stevens. “There’s no one-size-fits-all destination, but by gathering insights and specific data from our correspondents around the world, we’re able to compare apples-to-apples and create a snapshot of what each of the 24 countries we rank has to offer across categories like Cost of Living, Healthcare, Visas and Residence and more.”
International Living editors refine their methodology each year. “We tweak the Index each year to make our comparisons more helpful to potential expats,” says Stevens. The climate category, for instance, now favors places that offer a variety of options.
Another change is in the Cost of Living category, creating an entirely new category for “housing, which combines buying and renting, which now makes it easier to compare day-to-day living costs,” says Stevens.
Who tops the list for the best—and cheapest—place to live in 2020?
“It’s the best-value destination in western Europe today,” says Stevens of Portugal. “A place where not only do dollars really stretch but where the quality of life is high, healthcare is excellent and low-cost, the pace is slow and pleasant and the populace is unendingly welcoming.”
Costa Rica is ranked in 3rd place, continuing to be a top contender year after years on the list of countries for International Living’s Retirement Index. There’s a dozen microclimates, abundant nature, warm locals, a straightforward residency process, plus pioneers who have already paved the way.
In 2020, Costa Rica celebrates 72 years without an army, abolishing its military in 1948. The World Health Organization ranks Costa Rica as having the best health care system in Central America and 36th best in the world.
Following is our summary of the lowdown on the 10 cheapest places to live in 2020.
1. Portugal
Looking out at a panoramic view of Porto in Portugal. Getty
One of the world’s friendliest, easiest and safest countries, Portugal tops the International Living Index for 2020. Adding to Portugal’s appeal are its gracious people, attractive beaches, brilliant sunshine and rich culture.
Whether you’re looking for fine museums, hiking paths, surfing beaches, ancient ruins or places to polish your golf game, it’s easy to find it in Portugal. In most regions of Portugal, there’s a pleasant climate year-round. Want an urban lifestyle? Check out Lisbon—the oldest city in Western Europe—or Porto, the second largest metropolitan area.
Portugal is one of Western Europe’s most affordable countries, and expats typically find that their expenses are about a third of what they would be in the States. In the capital city of Lisbon, a couple can live comfortably on about $2,200 a month—and it’s much less for a single person. In smaller cities and in the country’s interior, a couple’s budget will be about $1,700 a month.
2. Panama
A pretty balcony in Casco Viejo, a neighborhood in Panama City and a World Heritage Site. Getty
Panama is warm and tropical. The currency is the U.S. dollar. The tax burden is low. There’s a large English-speaking population—including excellent doctors. It lies completely outside the hurricane belt. High-speed internet and cell coverage are remarkable, as is the power, air and water quality. And the country’s famed Pensionado—which provides easy residency to expats—is one of the best retiree programs in the world today and it’s open to everyone.
Panama is about the size of South Carolina and has mountains, beaches and cities within an easy striking distance—no matter where you go. Most people are attracted to the cosmopolitan capital, Panama City, but the well-maintained Pan-American Highway runs the length of the country, making it easy to get around.
In Panama City, a couple can live on a monthly budget of as little as $1,700. A single could shave about 20-30% off those numbers. Leave Panama City and costs are even more affordable.
3. Costa Rica
Woman walking across a hanging bridge in Monteverde, Costa Rica. Getty
“Costa Rica continues to be a top contender year after years on the list of countries for International Living’s Retirement Index,” says Kathleen Evans, International Living’s Costa Rica correspondent. “There are so many reasons to love this stunningly beautiful Central American gem.” There’s affordable medical care, a dozen microclimates, abundant nature, warm locals, a straightforward residency process, plus pioneers who have already paved the way.
This year, the country celebrates 72 years since the abolishment of the army, making it the largest democracy without a military force.
Costa Rica is about the size of West Virginia, but it has a wide variety of landscapes and climates. Choose from rainforests, seaside villages and mountain towns. In the capital of San Jose, the capital, and the surrounding Central Valley you’ll find a temperate “eternal spring” climate. Guanacaste is known for its dry, hot beaches. Around the pristine Lake Arenal, expats live in the hills with lake views.
In the Central Valley (San Jose metropolitan area) —home to about two-thirds of Costa Rica’s population—a single person can live on between $1,500 and $1,800 a month Many couples report living well on $2,000 a month—including all their costs, but that amount can go down to $1,585, depending on where you live and how you spent your budget.
4. Mexico
Taking a selfie overlooking San Miguel de Allende, México. Getty
Life here is simple. There’s high-quality healthcare, stunning beaches, a vibrant life and culture and a low cost of living. The country has something for everyone: beautiful, warm oceans, crystal-clear tropical lakes, fertile farmlands, temperate-but-majestic mountains, starkly gorgeous deserts, small towns or sophisticated cities. And it’s quite easy to fit in.
“The cost of living is notoriously low,” says Don Murray, International Living’s Riviera Maya correspondent. “In fact, there are many places in the country where a wonderful life can be had for the price of one monthly Social Security check and this improves even more when you figure the normally favorable exchange rate from dollars to pesos.” A couple can live in Mexico for $1,500 to $3,000 a month, depending on the location—including rent and healthcare.
5. Colombia
An aerial view of Tayrona National Park in Colombia. Getty
Colombia, for the last several years it has ranked highly in the retirement index thanks to its lower cost of living, stunning scenery, world-class healthcare, close proximity to the U.S. and the warm, welcoming Colombian people. As the expression goes: you don’t just meet a Colombian: You meet the entire family.
One of the major draws to this beautiful country is its climate. Colombia is the second most biodiverse country in the world, meaning you can find whatever climate you desire—there is something for everyone.” Warm and tropical on the Caribbean coast, eternal spring in the lower Andes mountains, and even cooler in the upper mountains. Sitting just above the equator, Colombia has the same climate all year long. So whichever climate you choose, you will enjoy it in January, July or October.
Things are much cheaper here than in the US. You can go out and have a nice breakfast or lunch for $4 or a nice dinner for $8. Getting a retirement visa to live in Colombia is also quite easy. The cost of living is 60% less than it was living in a small city in Maine. Think $1,400 to $2000 a month for a couple, even less for a single person.
6. Ecuador
View of the city of Cuenca, Ecuador, with its many churches and rooftops. Getty
The weather is spring-like, there’s no need for a car, and rents are an affordable $500 for a nice condo overlooking the historic downtown. Ecuador scores well in the Benefits/Discounts and Cost of Living categories.
Whatever you want—small village life, big-city conveniences—you’ll find it in Ecuador. Lush, green hills and fertile valleys are the norm. There are beaches that are warm but rarely muggy (and no hurricanes or tropical storms). There are temperate climates in the Andes where you do not need a heating or cooling system.
Ecuador is good for your pocket. For instance, in Cuenca, a frugal single person can get by on less than $1,000 per month. A two-bedroom, two-bath condo in downtown Cuenca rents for just $500 a month.
7. Malaysia
On a street corner in Penang, Malaysia. Getty
Malaysia—a popular expat destination since the late 1960s—is known for its idyllic beaches, seductive islands and some of the most pristine ancient rainforests in Southeast Asia. Expats can own property freehold, there is no inheritance tax and Malaysia places no tax on income earned overseas.
If white-sand beaches are your dream, you have more than 878 islands to choose from here. Known as a foodie haven, Penang’s largest city, George Town, is home to eclectic architecture, a vibrant art scene and the best street food in the world.
In Penang, a couple can live comfortably on $1,455 a month, including rent.
8. Spain
Tossa de Mar, a town in Spain’s Costa Brava with stunning views. Getty
Spain has the highest living standards—and for a lot less than in the US. “There’s no question of having to give up anything in living here. In fact, you’ll gain a lot,” says Marsha Scarbrough, International Living’s Spain correspondent.
Outside the tourist zones, you may need to know a little Spanish to get by, but there are plenty of beach areas with large, English-speaking expat communities. Spain has a surprising range of climates: hot and dry in the south and cool and mild in the north (Navarre, Cantabria, Asturias, Galicia and the Basque country have forests, mountains, stunning coastline and food to die for).
Spain has one of the lowest costs of living in Western Europe. Even in Madrid, one of the most expensive locations, you can live (modestly) on $2,000 a month. Rent is cheaper than the US, and living in a city you don’t need a car—which is a huge saving. Because of the warm climate, many basic food items are inexpensive here.
9. France
Aerial view of the beautiful city of Privateers – Saint Malo in Brittany, France. Getty
France has all the ingredients: good food, good wine, haute couture, a good climate, unspoiled countryside, glittering culture, excellent healthcare, colorful traditions and history and, as a bonus, the glamour and sophistication of Paris—arguably the world’s most bewitching capital. And France is more affordable than you may think.
In the Languedoc-Rousillon, you’ll find a warm climate year-round, delightful medieval villages, white-sand beaches and prices that are still reasonable. If you prefer a cooler climate, look to charming Normandy, just two hours from Paris.
One of the best things about living in France is the excellent healthcare system: Universal coverage is guaranteed to all residents (expat and otherwise) after three months, and healthcare prices are rock bottom. How much you spend on living costs in France depends on your own lifestyle. A couple can live on a budget of $2,000 to $2,500—it’ll be less if you’re single.
10. Vietnam
Thap Rua (Turtle Tower) on Hoan Kiem Lake in Hanoi, Vietnam. Getty
Modern cities, ancient historic sites, uncrowded beaches, some of the most welcoming people in the world and one of the strongest economies in Asia—this is Vietnam. Vietnam’s exceptionally low cost of living is a major incentive. It’s also an easy place to live, with English widely spoken.
“In urban areas, skyscrapers are popping up like dandelions, and motorbikes and automobiles outnumber cyclos and bicycles,” says Wendy Justice, International Living’s Southeast Asia correspondent.
Even in Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi, a couple can enjoy a comfortable lifestyle for less than $1,100 per month, but many Westerners get by on around $500 per month for a no-frills lifestyle. If you live outside of Vietnam’s two largest cities, a budget of around $800 to $1,000 per month will provide a lovely house or apartment, all utilities, housekeeping, groceries, dining out every day if you choose, and even the occasional massage. If you have a larger budget, you’ll be living a life of luxury for a fraction of what you would pay in the West.
For complete coverage of The World’s Best Places to Retire in 2020, visit the International Living website.
Costa Ricans were filled with pride on New Year’s Day seeing the participation of the Zarcero Municipal Band (Banda Municipal de Zarcero ) in the Rose Parade in Pasadena California.
The band, with 156 members made a great presentation, once again raising Costa Rica’s name and image high in the minds of Americans and the world. In January 2019, the Acosta band had the honor.
On Wednesday, Zarcero’s performance was called “Somos Costa Rica” (We are Costa Rica), making its appearance on television at 10:52 am (Costa Rica time), with costumes that highlighted the white, blue and red of the national flag, the purple guard and other national symbols. The presentation was wonderful!
Under the direction of Esteban Rodríguez Rojas, he said, “thanks to the level of their presentations and the tireless discipline on the part of the band, this year they fulfilled the dream of being part of this prestigious parade”.
The previous Sunday, the band participated in the California Band Fest, along with bands from the United States, Mexico and Hawaii.
The United States Men’s National Team (USMNT) will get a chance to see what it is aiming for when it holds an upcoming 2022 World Cup friendly against Costa Rica on February 1 in Carson, California, the home of MLS’ Los Angeles Galaxy.
The USMNT, which missed out on the 2018 World Cup, is expected to hold practices in training camp in Qatar, the location of the 2022 World Cup, before heading back to the U.S. for their encounter with Costa Rica.
Costa Rica and the USMNT have an even 16-16-5 record against each other since 1975. The teams last played February 2, 2019, in San Jose, a 2-0 victory for the USMNT.
???? | Following #JanuaryCamp in Qatar, the #USMNT will kick off 2020 vs. Costa Rica on Feb. 1 in California.
Costa Rica’s national soccer team – La Selección or La Sele – have qualified for five FIFA World Cup finals, namely in 1990, 2002, 2006, 2014 and 2018.
Costa Rica is the only national team in Central America to have played in five FIFA World Cup editions. Since the late 1980s, the team has continuously been visible as a solidly competitive side, with a prominent performance its first World Cup in the 1990 FIFA World Cup in Italy, where it beat Scotland and Sweden in group play to reach the Round of 16 in Italy.
In 2014, Costa Rica made their best performance in history by finishing first in their group that consisted of three former World Cup champions: Uruguay, Italy, and England. During the Round of 16 they defeated Greece 5–3 via a penalty shootout after a 1–1 draw.
Their 2018 World Cup campaign ended in a 4th place group stage exit with their only point coming from a 2-2 draw vs Switzerland.
Based on U.S. search data, the Maldives topped the list as one of the best travel destinations of 2019.
The Maldives is every beach lover’s best friend. So, if you are planning to go somewhere exotic for your honeymoon or long-awaited trip, then Maldives will be the best choice for you.
Following the Maldives is Japan, Bora Bora, and Las Vegas. With Tokyo Olympic coming up next year, Japan will be one of the best destinations to travel the next year. Bora Bora is one of the most breath-taking locations will hopefully top the list next year as well. Now, for all casino lovers and night owls – Las Vegas stood in the fourth position.
Mexico was another country that remained everyone’s favorite in the year 2019. You can add Mexico to your travel bucket list for next year.
Sixth on the list is Alaska that is filled with mountains and natural beauty. Experience the most beautiful trip of your life with your beau and make memories of a lifetime.
For food lovers, New Orleans, famous for its exquisite cuisine and natural beauty ranked on number 7 on Google’s list.
In eighth and ninth positions were California and New York. California is best known for its amazing locations and New York needs no introduction.
Tenth on the list is Costa Rica, a dreamy destination for every year. If you are a nature-lover, then you will definitely love Costa Rica.
Central American countries are teaming up to conserve the region’s five great forests as part of a regional climate action plan released at the United Nations’ international Framework Convention on Climate Change in Madrid last month, the alliance behind the effort said.
The coalition of governments, indigenous people, green groups and others announced a plan to protect 10 million hectares of forests and degraded land inside those forests – an area roughly the size of Guatemala – by 2030.
In the last 15 years, three of the forests have been reduced by almost one-quarter in size, with illegal cattle ranching responsible for more than 90% of recent deforestation, it said.
Measures planned to safeguard the forests include bolstering agencies that look after protected areas, tracing beef to verify it has been legally produced, cracking down on cross-border cattle trafficking, helping ranchers find other ways to earn a living, and reforesting land where trees have been cut down.
The five forests, spanning from Mexico to Colombia, are key to curbing climate change as they sequester carbon dioxide emissions from burning fossil fuels that would otherwise heat up the planet.
“Nearly 50% of the carbon in Mesoamerica is stored in the five great forests,” said Carlos Manuel Rodriguez, Costa Rica’s environment minister, adding he hoped they would not be fragmented by deforestation.
The forests also provide habitat for wildlife such as the jaguar and scarlet macaw, the alliance said. The initiative aims to ensure no species go extinct.
The forests include the Maya Forest in Mexico, Guatemala and Belize; the Moskitia in Nicaragua and Honduras; the Indio Maíz-Tortuguero in Nicaragua and Costa Rica; the Talamanca region in Costa Rica and Panama; and the Darien in Panama and Colombia.
They provide water, clean air, food security and other natural resources to 5 million people, the alliance said, noting that indigenous and local communities manage nearly half of the forest area.
Cándido Mezúa of the Mesoamerican Alliance of Peoples and Forests, said it was sad to see the forests of the Amazon burning – and the impact that was having on indigenous people.
“In Mesoamerica, we have our five forests. They still exist. We can still protect them, and even expand them,” he said in a statement.
Financing for the efforts will come through Central American countries, donor governments and a new fund for Indigenous and community forests.
In how many countries can one find the “mandatario” (President) shopping at the local supermarket and on a December 24th no less? And in how many countries can you just walk up and start a conversation, and take a selfie with him or her?
A selfie with president Carlos Alvarado (middle)
Only in Costa Rica, as I and my wife had the privilege some days back when we met with our neighbor and mandatario, Carlos Alvarado, at the local AutoMercado in Santa Ana.
There was no security. No brouhaha. President Alvarado walked among the plebs, just another Tico doing his grocery shopping. We just ran into each other by chance, the man beside me in the aisle, in the green polo shirt, was actually the president.
It didn’t surprise me. It wasn’t my first rodeo with a president, ran into Luis Guillermo Solis a couple of years ago while taking in a paella competition at the Parque Viva.
“Don’t you have someone that does this for you?” was my smart-aleck intro to Don Carlos, to which he replied, “I enjoy shopping”.
The brief exchange was pleasant, my wife extending an invitation to Christmas Day lunch (a tradition at our home) and some talk. The mandatario graciously declined lunch but we exchanged emails and he politely agreed to an interview (in the future) for the Q. A selfie was in order. Don Carlos is not camera shy.
What did surprise me is the photo below, taken by someone else, going viral on social networks.
This photo went viral on social networks. Carlos Alvarado (in green), my wife Elena Sevilla and myself – on December 24 at the Automercado Santa Ana.
As the world turns today, the photo was also used in several memes, one comparing Costa Rica’s president to the neighbor to the north, Nicaragua, where the president is seldom seen in public and then only under heavy police protection.
I was unaware of the photo until emails and messages started pouring in from people who know me. I have always been famous but never realized that others knew that.
There was no security, men in suits (the presidential escort detail) trailing the mandatario.
Living in Costa Rica one can feel privileged. I know I do.
Android app icons sit on the homescreen of the Samsung Electronics Co. Galaxy S9+ smartphone during the company's media event in San Francisco, California, U.S., on Friday, Feb. 16, 2018. The South Korea-based technology giant is banking on new features such as augmented reality-based emojis, camera upgrades, and stereo speakers in a form-factor similar to last year's model in order to take on Apple Inc.'s iPhone X. Photographer: David Paul Morris/Bloomberg via Getty Images
Mobile technology has evolved over the years. Many people use smartphones to communicate or play games. App developers build hundreds of Android apps each week. Some apps are ideal for gambling and predicting match outcomes.
Betway has a complex app that allows you to wager on different sports events. Here are five top Android apps you need to check out this week.
Ceri Launcher
Ceri Launcher is a lightweight launcher. It has easy controls and a great User Interface (UI). You can use it for free for the first month after which you will pay a monthly subscription. It allows you to customize its home screen into different patterns including the honeycomb style. Besides, it is easy to navigate. You can shift from the app search to the settings section. Notably, it is in early beta. You might find some additional features, bugs, and launchers. Most of its features are free.
The Mighty Quest for Epic Loot
Ubisoft launched The Mighty Quest for Epic Loot app a few days ago. It is a thrilling adventure game. The gaming app has easy to use touch controls, mechanics and many villains to hack and slash. You need to build your character, customize it and fight other gamers in battle and PvP in 100 environments. The Mighty Quest has an RPG progression which allows you to use different abilities and skills. It has amazing gameplay quests and elements.
Gears POP
Funko POP and Gears of War built Gears POP. It is a great mobile game with online multiplayer games. They have gacha elements. Gears POP involves collecting figures from Gears of War, upgrading, equipping and sending them to fight against other gamers. It provides different abilities to help you win many battles. It has amazing gameplay. However, it displays all minor transactions on time. It is free to play. Gears POP has the same graphics with a typical graphics that can be found on Betway, for casino games.
Cessabit
Many people like playing puzzle games. Cessabit has an easy game style thus making it ideal to relieve stress. However, people who like action games might find it boring. It has fun puzzles, several hints, and simple graphics. Tap on the home screen to locate certain hints and clues to solve challenging puzzles. You can pay a small subscription to play 24 levels. It lacks in-app ads and purchases. You can play Cessabit offline from anywhere. Higher levels are difficult to win but the app has a wonderful user experience.
Kind II: FPS TD
Kind II: FPS TD is an amazing gaming app. It combines first-person shooting with tower protection. The game involves arranging defenses and shooting unhealthy characters which look like tower protection. Kind II has many recreation activities that occur in the first-person narrative. It features many boss battles, cloud saving, easy controls, and ranges. It doesn’t have in-app advertisements and purchases.
App developers launch new Android apps each week. They are available on Google Play. Some applications are suitable for PCs which use Android OS. Many people use smartphones to place bets in Betway. You can use an Android phone to communication with loved ones, watch videos or play games. Each app is designed for a particular use.
There’s certainly no denying that VPNs are becoming increasingly popular around the world. But, it’s important to remember that even the most widely-used services sometimes aren’t all they’re cracked up to be. After all, there are a whole host of services out there that will actually put your personal information at risk – which is of course, the exact opposite of what you want.
A 2017 study conducted by security research firm Restore Privacy even found that several free services can actually track exactly what you’re doing and perhaps even leak your data because of lacklustre security and privacy features. So, it certainly pays to do your research before you get a VPN up and running on your device(s).
Once you have taken into account the above, all that’s left is to choose the service that is the most suitable for your particular needs. Thankfully, the vast range of VPNs to select from on the market ensures that there’s something for everyone – no matter if you’re a complete beginner or a seasoned pro. With great options for all kinds of web user, you’re certainly left spoilt for choice in the current day and age.
Complete newbies, for example, might well opt for a VPN such as the one created by cybersecurity experts Avast. But, just how good is Avast Secureline? Well, in the following article, we’ll answer that very question for you and delve deeper into some other popular VPNs. So, without any further ado, let’s get to it!
Avast Secureline
Established by one of the most recognizable brands in the cybersecurity industry, Avast Secureline VPN is a widely used service around the world which boasts hugely affordable prices starting from just $1.66 a month.
While it certainly doesn’t break the bank, Avast Secureline is hugely lacking in features that pro users would often look for. This includes the number of servers it has available and the encryption protocols which it supports. What’s more, personally identifiable information has been provided to the authorities on its users in the past. This means that those with privacy concerns are certainly better off spending their hard-earned pennies elsewhere.
ExpressVPN
ExpressVPN certainly isn’t the most cost-effective VPN on the market, as prices start from a rather expensive $8.32 a month. In spite of this, it still remains one of the most popular VPN services available. A staggering 3,000 servers are available via ExpressVPN, with outstanding levels of protection, excellent customer service, and high connection speeds further enhancing its appeal.
A 30-day money-back guarantee ensures that you are entitled to a no-quibble refund if you are dissatisfied with the service. Although, given the glowing reviews that ExpressVPN continues to receive, it’s unlikely that you’ll need to go down that route.
NordVPN
Much like ExpressVPN, NordVPN has stolen the limelight in recent years as one of the most popular VPN providers out there – all thanks to its reliability and vast selection of servers to choose from. It’s certainly a solid choice for those who are on a budget, as prices start from just $3.49 a month as opposed to ExpressVPN which costs over double this amount.
A clear no-logging policy provides peace of mind for online privacy enthusiasts, along with solid military-grade encryption and OpenVPN support.
Hotspot Shield
Solid security features and affordable prices starting from just $2.99 a month have made Hotspot Shield one of the most widely used services in the world. Leak and malware protection used by this particular VPN provides you with a safer online experience, while a kill switch offers peace of mind if you suffer from a connection interruption.
However, its privacy policy may be of some concern to those who are serious about online privacy. After all, it states that “your personal information may be available to a third-party content provider”. Security researcher Paulos Yibelo also discovered that generic information such as the user’s country could be exposed by a security bug – another thing worth bearing in mind.
Final Thoughts
Overall, it’s clear that VPNs won’t be disappearing any time soon – particularly in an age where cybercrime is rife. This means that when you invest in a VPN, it’s of paramount importance to choose one which puts your online privacy and security at the forefront. Otherwise, you could potentially see your data end up in the wrong hands.
When it comes to deciding which service to opt for, just remember that even if the VPN you are considering appears to be a popular choice, this doesn’t always mean that it’s the best when it comes to optimal privacy and security – as outlined in this article. Once you’ve taken this into consideration, you can easily filter out the services which don’t provide the protection needed to keep your data safe, and select one which keeps your personal information well out of harm’s way.
When you go hunting, you have to make sure that you pack everything that you need. There’s nothing quite so frustrating as a long hike and setting up your base only to find that you’ve forgotten something essential. Hunting can be exhausting, and if you’re on your first hunting trip, it can be hard to know what is necessary to bring with you.
Most experienced hunters know exactly what to pack because they have learned through trial and error. First-timers don’t have the luxury of experience, so here is a quick guide on what you need to bring.
Remember these basics and your hunting experience will be much more fun and satisfying.
Water
If there’s one thing that everyone agrees on, it’s that you’re going to need to pack plenty of water. This is the single most important thing to remember. Consider the length of your trip and plan the water quantity that you’ll need for that length of time. Look for ways to make your water supplies take up less room in your packing.
First Aid Essentials
Not only can accidents happen at any time, but hunting and hiking can also often result in blisters and minor scrapes and bumps. A first aid kit is vital, and even the most basic kit should include:
Even if you’re hunting in a state with more predictable weather, only the most foolish of hunters will fail to pack warm, rain-proof, and comfortable clothing. No matter what time of year you plan to hunt, make sure that you bring along some of the best cold weather hunting clothes. A lot of hunting is sitting in one place and waiting, and the weather can change at any time. If you want to stay comfortable, the right clothing is vital.
Hunting License
You’re going to need your hunting license on you at all times, so make sure that you have it somewhere on your person that’s easy to get to. It’s a good idea to keep your license protected in a plastic bag to protect it from rain or snow. Keep all of your documents safe and you’ll run less risk of falling foul of an illegible license.
A Headlamp
If you’ve ever tried to dress an animal in the dark, then know that it’s not a very easy thing to do. A headlamp can be a very useful addition to your hunting gear, and not just for animal dressing either. If you have a long hike back to your car at night, or if you have an emergency situation to deal with, a headlamp can make it much easier to travel safely. Modern headlamps for hunters are often so light and comfortable that you can even forget that they’re on your head.
These are the basics that you’re going to need. However, this is simply a starting point. Make sure that you plan your trip and your packing well. From tools to light fires to a good knife, there’s plenty to remember on your first hunting trip. Remember, you need your hunting pack to contain everything that you need to survive in the wild.
Take your time to plan what you need to bring with you and your hunting experience will be much more satisfying.
Come one, come all! Image from Idioma Internacional
The Spanish magazine Matador Network published a few years back its 12 reasons why people should not invite a Costa Rican (Tico) to their home.
The article, first published in November 2016, is not to take cheap shots at Ticos, rather the writer, Sergio Otegui who usually writes about Costa Rica, and Yogevett Cañas, who says she is more Tica than Pura Vida, focus on highlighting Tico culture.
The list from contributions by “explorers, linguists, entrepreneurs, writers, filmmakers, photographers, activists and adventurers” can still apply today. For example, Ticos being perpetually late for just about everything.
I’ve updated it, listing 10 reasons why you should never invite a Tico – this includes Tica and Ticos – to your home:
1
A Tico will tell you that he will arrive at a certain hour, but perhaps it is at tico time
Although Ticos are not overly proud of this, they usually leave everything to the last minute and be somewhat unpunctual. They can tell you that they are running a little late and will arrive in 5 minutes, but you will see how a half an hour, or an hour or more will pass while still waiting for them. So much so that they have their own time, “la hora tica” (tico time), which makes the time a relative concept. Despite this, if a Tico says He/She/They will arrive, He/She/They is sure to arrive … late.
A Tico will ask you to “regala” them everything
When the Ticos go to buy something, they rarely say will you sell me; naturally they ask for anything, in any place, with the expression “me regala” – give me. Of course, things are not going to be taken without paying, that is just their way of asking. So if they are in your house and they ask you to give them something to eat, it is not that they are going to take your cutlery and your dishes, it is that they are simply a little hungry and the custom is to say “regalame”.
When you offer a Tico something to drink, the first option will be a “natural” (100% fresh).
For the Tico, a “natural” is a juice made with mora (blackberry), cas, piña (pineapple), mango, sandia (watermelon), fresa (strawberry) or any other fruit of those found at any time in the supermarket or pulperia (corner store). But beware! The fruit must be peeled, squeezed or liquefied shortly before serving it. That is, forget about offering them a fruit concentrate from the supermarket … because you can offend.
A Tico will make you feel older than you are or you will come to think you lack good manners next to one of them
It is that Ticos always refer to you as “usted” (oos-tehd)to convey the formality of a relationship. , the formal of ‘you’, regardless of your age. Hopefully, they will refer to you in the “Tú” less formal than usted. Ticos, in general, do not use “vos” as in other parts of Latin America. To understand this better, the Tú is used in familiar, friendly or when talking to someone of the same age, the same social, or educational level. In addition, Ticos will always ask with “por favor” (please) and a “gracias” (thank you). They will also ask you for permission before entering your home or getting up from the table. And you may feel that you should learn from their good manners.
Even if there are other guests in the house and they don’t know them, a Tico will talk to them as if they were lifelong friends
If there is something that characterizes the Tico, it is his kindness, his hospitality … either with the bus driver, the baker in the corner or anyone who asks for the time on the street. The Tico talks a lot, and although he doesn’t know who the person he is addressing, he will always try to warm up with a pleasant conversation and create a pleasant atmosphere.
6
The Tico will touch on thorny issues… like fútbol (soccer)
What if Saprissa, La Liga, Heredia, Cartago, or Madrid; It doesn’t matter, the Tico always knows something about fútbol and likes to discuss it. Costa Rica is a fanatic country of this sport, where the national classics are lived with much fervor and the games of La Sele (national team) unite all Costa Ricans. And since Keylor Navas represents them abroad, Tico eyes are set, now more than ever, on the European game. Also, do not be surprised if from one moment to another a Tico invites you to play a mejenga (a pickup game between friends), so you better be fit.
It will not take long for a Tico to comment that in their country they have no army and that they are the happiest country in the world.
The Ticos can claim to be, since 1948, one of the few countries that do not have any type of armed forces. Nor does it seem necessary, since the country topped the Happy Planet Index on several occasions in the past few years.
If you get the talk about your last vacation, a Tico will let you know quickly that in a weekend in Costa Rica it is possible to go from the beach to the mountain, with a stopover at a volcano.
Costa Rica is a small country in extension, but large in resources, because thanks to its location and its tropical climate it has a great biodiversity. So, for a Tico, the idea of leaving home to a paradise beach, touring a cloud forest or visiting one of the many volcanoes in the land, is not far fetched. It is indeed something you can do in relatively little time. Despite its size, there is much to see in Costa Rica.
9
“I ate it…I ate the wasp…I ate it…all protein”, said former President Luis Guillermo Solis as he swallowed a wast during a speech.
Killing that strange bug or animal in your home is nothing to a Tico
10
If your house party lasts until breakfast time (the next day), the Tico will wait for a plate of pinto and accompanied by a cup of “yodo” (coffee)
The gallo pinto is a typical Costa Rican breakfast that for many, is more than breakfast. That dish of rice and beans (not to be confused with the plate “rice and beans” traditionally fond in Limón) with a dab of Sala Lizano, an egg, natilla (custard), Turrialba cheese, plátano maduro (plantain or green banana) and a cup of coffee, will surely make you start the PURA VIDA day!
If you think there some Tico customs lacking, post your comments to our official Facebook page.
All vehicles rented at the San Jose (or Liberia airport in Guanacaste) have a 13% airport fee attached. That used to be the sales tax but changed to airport fee, plus the Value Added Tax (VAT) when went into effect last July.
Thus, a vehicle rented at the airport has a 13% airport fee and a 13% VAT. However, on vehicles rented not at the airport you pay only the 13% VAT.
Hah, but there is more. No rental car agency actually has vehicles at the San Jose airport, they are all at their “airport” office, which is the office nearest the airport. From the airport, you are taken by shuttle, which can be up to a few kilometers, to the office where you will then get your car with the airport fee applied.
However, if you first go to your hotel, get online, reserve your vehicle – do not use the airport location, rather the nearer office near your hotel – and you will get the same car but without the airport fee, only the value-added tax.
Or you can call or check with your hotel front desk for car rentals. Some hotels have car rental desks.
The disadvantage of renting at the airport is clearly the additional tax. On a week’s rental, the 13% airport fee can add up. For example, on a Toyota Corolla, with the full coverage can run you about US$150 a day or more (ouch) during peak season (like right now Christmas and New Years), the 13% airport fee is US$19.50 a day or US$136.50 a week.
Off-peak season price for the Corolla, with the VAT is about US$80 a day for the full coverage (is not insurance and not mandatory), in which the rental car company will assume responsibility for the loss of or damage to the car and usually requires a deposit of US$500, rather than the US$2,000 or US$3,000 on your credit card for lower coverages.
Note that the full coverage in many cases, at least in the case of economy cars, the amount is higher than the base rental of the vehicle.
A couple of examples of non-airport rentals.
At Avis, the base rate for a Nissan Sentra is US$36 a day (for January 6, 2020), the LDW is US$29.99. With taxes, the total daily rental is US$78.12. The same car would be US$88.27 at the airport.
At National, the base rate for a Toyota Corolla is US$31.90 (for January 6, 2020), the ‘maximum coverage’ is US$45 for the class of vehicle, with tax the total rental is US$89.04. The same car would be US$96.64 at the airport.
“The accused man was in the bedroom when the victim arrived, being that with obvious sexual mood and through physical violence, the accused proceeded to grab the victim forcibly by the arms, threw her against the bed, to whom he said: ‘You have to have sex with me, if not I will not buy food.’
For illustrative purposes. Image archives.
“Then, against the will of the woman, he lifted her dress, stripped her of her underclothes and raped her.”
That is one of the three rapes that the Fiscalía (Public Prosecutor’s Office) accuses a Canadian businessman, surnamed Duncan Gibbs, 71 years of age, of committing against a 56-year-old woman, who at the time, was the accused’s live-in partner.
According to the Fiscalía, the sexual attacks occurred between 2016 and 2017.
In addition, he is also charged with two counts of sexual abuse against his stepdaughter, who at the time was 21 years old.
Duncan Gibbs is expected to face trial in December 2020 in the Goicoechea Criminal Court (San Jose) as confirmed by the press office of the Poder Judicial (Judiciary), reports La Nacion, following their inquiry into the case.
Backstory: Coexistence marked by suffering
In the accusing statement by the Public Prosecutor’s Office, Duncan and the victim began a relationship in April 2016. They lived in Brazil in Santa Ana, in San José.
From the beginning, the situation between them was complicated, since, between April and July 2016, Duncan Gibbs grabbed his partner by the arms “forcibly”, while saying: “Usted es una p…”. (Filling in the blanks, “you are a whore”).
The situation worsened, for in June of that same year, one day, while the woman prepared breakfast, the accused came to the kitchen and touched her private parts “in an abusive, libidinous way and with obvious sexual intent” in front of the victim’s two children.
But it was not until December 2016 that the first rape allegedly occurred.
“The victim was in the bedroom of the house, when Duncan arrived, at which point by force he grabbed the victim by the arms, turned her and placed her in front of him, immediately throwing her to the bed.
“With the sole purpose of satisfying his deviant sexual desires, he raised the woman’s dress (…) at the time in which he said: ‘You did not want to have sex with me last night, we will have it now,’ reads the document written by prosecutor Yorleny Ching Cubero.
“The victim said no, but apparently the accused still continued and raped her,” says Cubero in the statement.
A month later, in January 2017, the victim was again in the room, when the accused arrived and allegedly took her “forcibly” by her hair.
“He threw her against the bed, he lifted the dress she was wearing while yelling at him: ‘I will have sex with you’,” reads the document of the Fiscalía of the second rape count.
Days later, after the new sexual attack occurred, he threatened to not buy food if she did not agree to have sex with him.
In addition to the sexual attacks committed against his partner, Duncan Gibbs is also accused of two sexual crimes against his stepdaughter, who is currently 24 years old.
In the same document presented by the Fiscalía, in their request for the case to trial, the abuses occurred between November and December 2016.
The Fiscalía said in the report that the events occurred when Duncan Gibbs took his stepdaughter to “practice driving” in Santa Ana.
The first time was when, “taking advantage of the confidence he had built, with his hand proceeded to touch her leg then moving it up to the genital area.”
“Not satisfied with that, he touched her breasts over her clothes and later apologized,” continued the report.
The second sexual abuse occurred, apparently, when the accused “proceeded to touch her breasts over her clothes,” while making obscene manifestations in English.
Given the alleged sexual assaults, the now ex-partner and stepdaughter decided to report him in 2017.
Three years later, they will have their day in court.
Over the years, Zapote remains unmissable for families. Each year new and old head for the Zapote fairground, una “vueltica” (a look and see) for the new and traditional. Few families in Costa Rica end the year with a visit to Zapote.
The main attraction is the ‘bullls‘. But Zapote is more than that. From Christmas day to the early days of the new year, every year, entire families visit the biggest of all the summer fairs, to enjoy eating something delicious, the rides and reliving childhood moments.
The “popular fiestas” this year celebrate a half-century of entertaining children and adults, mostly from the Central Valley, but also from every corner of Costa Rica.
“The main reason we come is to entertain the little ones. I really feel that prices are very expensive because we are many people, but despite that, I see more people than last year and I think it is very organized,” Maribel Esquivel, who is visiting this year with a family group of 8, told La Teja.
Zapote has something for everyone. The rides, the bulls, the Chinamos de comida (street foods), megabars, music, and concerts.
This year, on opening day, December 25, some 40,000 people attended what can be called Costa Rica’s biggest year-end party.
Zapote this year runs until Sunday, January 5, 2020.
Never been to the Zapote fair? What are you waiting for? If you can’t make it in person, you can follow the fair on Facebook.
Bolivians protest what they call a coup against Morales
At first glance, the protests in Ecuador, Chile, Bolivia and most recently Colombia seem to have much in common. They were largely peaceful demonstrations, with occasional instances of violence and vandalism and security forces suppressing any mayhem with an iron fist.
Bolivians protest what they call a coup against Morales
The protests have also had far-reaching consequences. In Bolivia, President Evo Morales was forced to step down. In Ecuador, Chile and Colombia, protesters forced lawmakers to scrap various policies and plans.
Though the political and economic situations of these four countries differ, the protests have common roots: the blindness of elites to glaring injustice, the arrogance of those who hold power and the absence of economic systems that balance competition and profit with social equity. Chileans disagree over the best way forward. The same is true in Colombia. Bolivia is more politically divided than ever. Ecuador’s current calm is deceptive.
The protests are aimed not at dictators, but at democratically elected leaders. Even Bolivia, where ex-President Evo Morales sought to hold onto his power with quasi-autocratic determination, remains a far cry from a dictatorship. In fact, Bolivians initially took to the street to defend their democracy. However, Morales’ resignation spurred his supporters to protest. Both they and the counterprotesters have radicalized — and all while Bolivia’s interim government stands by idly.
Instead of calming tensions, interim President Jeanine Anez has broken off diplomatic relations with Venezuela and reestablished them with Israel — two symbolic moves that could have just as well been carried out at the behest of the US. She brandished a bible at her swearing-in-ceremony, which must have been taken as a deliberate show of cultural disdain by those indigenous groups that had turned against Morales, Bolivia’s first indigenous president.
DW’s Uta Thofern
Bolivia’s former opposition movement, which would have the best chances in fresh elections, is increasingly fragmented, and moderate forces are losing popularity as Bolivia grows ever more polarized.
Hidden problems emerge
The same can be said for Chile and Colombia, where the various opposition camps and governments are increasingly at loggerheads. Chilean President Sebastian Pinera and his Colombian counterpart Ivan Duque have overcome their initial stubbornness and given in to many of the protesters’ demands, while also signaling an openness to engage in dialogue. Yet this has done nothing to placate protesters.
All trust in the Chilean and Colombian states dissolved after security forces used unnecessary brutality to suppress peaceful demonstrations. Yet some individuals have capitalized on every new demonstration to steal and vandalize property, which has provoked further violence and left ordinary citizens fearing for their safety.
In both countries, protesters and leaders seems to be talking past each other. In Chile, the country’s emergence from the Pinochet dictatorship in the 90s and its robust economic growth distracted from growing societal polarization. And in Colombia, decades of struggles against armed guerrillas overshadowed many of its societal problems.
Now, however, people are angry and fed up with lawmakers promising to engage in talks or honor the rule of law. The possibility of a constitutional referendum in Chile has not mollified protesters, who do not even have designated negotiator to talk to the government. And in Colombia, a strike committee comprised of union and student activists claims to represent the entirely of protesters and refuses to even talk to other societal groups, which makes serious negotiations impossible.
Too many disparate demands
The protesters also seem to want everything and want it fast: affordable education, less misygonist violence, higher pensions, less racism, better health care and more protection for environmental and social activists. But of course, the state is not able to fulfill all these demands, let alone over night. Not even a dictatorship would be able to do so.
Lawmakers have so far struggled to strike the right tone to engage with protesters. And the demonstrators, in turn, seem unwilling to reach some sort of compromise. For now, they are too enthralled by the feeling of finally having power, a feeling that inhibits rational thinking. Besides, a sense of deep distrust towards the violent state persists.
But for there to be progress, protesters and leaders will have to eventually come together for talks, and they must acknowledge that no one can claim to speak for all people. They can only ever represent a part of, never the entire populace.
Democracy needs time. It is the wearisome search for compromise and balance between differing interests. The South American protesters don’t seem to want to do this anymore. They’ve waited too long and been disappointed too often. This is understandable, yet there is no good alternative to democracy, either. Without it, there is chaos and then the rule of the strong man. And that is not justice.
A record 4.4 tons of cocaine packed in containers of soy flour and destined for Togo has been seized in Montevideo. Uruguay has increasingly become a hub for South American narcotics shipments to Africa and Europe.
Uruguayan navy and customs officials said image scans showing hidden anomalies led to the find in a first container.
Further containers were being opened, the officials said, and if all four containers held the same quantity the seizure could amount to around 15 tons.
In a statement, Uruguay’s navy described the seizure as the “greatest blow to drug trafficking in the history of our country.”
The soy flour, destined for Lome, Togo, in western Africa, had been loaded last Tuesday at a ranch in the region of Soriano in southwestern Uruguay.
Suspects ‘baited’
Uruguay’s El Observador newspaper quoted Director of Customs Jaime Borgiana as saying that customs personnel were waiting for suspects who “got baited.”
The AFP news agency reported that authorities had been questioning a soy company owner and truck drivers who brought the merchandise to the port of Montevideo for export.
An election clerk at the Sacramento County Registrar of Voters inspects a mail-in ballot. Image from NYTimes
(Press release) Did you know that U.S. citizens living in Costa Rica can vote in U.S. federal elections?
An election clerk at the Sacramento County Registrar of Voters inspects a mail-in ballot. Image Rich Pedroncelli/Associated Press
Yes, you can, and you need to vote in 2020 because it may be the most important election in your lifetime. In order to vote in 2020, you must first request a ballot from your state.
Regardless of whether you voted in the last election, to vote in 2020, you must request your ballot again, beginning January 1. So don’t delay, do it now, before you forget and it’s too late.
Voting in 2020 is as simple as 1-2-3:
Request your ballot using a smartphone by going to Votefromabroad.org – a non-partisan platform that helps US citizens vote from abroad – and following the simple instructions there.
After several weeks, call or email your local election office to verify that they received your ballot request.
When you receive your ballot via email, return it according to the accompanying instructions. Many states allow you to return your ballot by email. If your state allows you to do this, you are in luck because it is the easiest, quickest, and safest way to vote.
It’s that simple.
Any questions, call the Vote from Abroad Costa Rica Hotline at VICTORY2.
Remember, every vote counts.
This is a public service announcement provided by Vote from Abroad Costa Rica. For further information, contact Steve Johnson, at 7106-9505 or email Johnsos05@yahoo.com
The Government of Carlos Alvarado highlighted the projects that impacted Costa Rica’s road development in 2019.
Overpass project in Taras and La Limal
Outstanding works in Circunvalación Norte, the extension of the Ruta 32, the binational bridge at Sixaola, OBIS – Obras Impostergables – (unpostponable works) between San José and San Ramón, Limonal-Cañas, Virilla bridge (Ruta 32) and the awarding contracts of overpasses in Taras and La Lima de Cartago, among others.
Also, projects such as the Ruta de la Leche and Ruta 160 in Guanacaste, asphalting between Puriscal and Parrita and eleven Ruta 121 bridges between Santa Ana and Ciudad Colón were activated.
Work on the Virilla bridge on the Ruta 32 advances
There are 14 works underway at the IDB Cantonal II road infrastructure development program, which will boost road projects in all cantons, in particular, Mora, Turrubares, Esparza, Abangares, Cañas, Tilarán, Bagaces, La Cruz, Hojancha, Los Chiles y Upala, with a total investment of US$144 million.
In December, a new package of seven works was awarded in León Cortés, Tarrazú, Desamparados, Aserrí and Acosta. The start order is estimated to be in the first quarter of 2020.
Ruta de La Leche, Nicoya
Bids for two other packages of works have already been received by the MOPT. These are interventions in the southern zone (Osa, Pérez Zeledón, Quepos, Coto Brus, and Buenos Aires), as well as in Pococí, Sarapiquí, Los Chiles, Turrialba, Talamanca, Matina, and Siquirres.
The award of another group of 10 projects is pending the outcome of appeals. These are interventions in Montes de Oro, Santa Cruz, Nandayure, Garabito, Puntarenas, Santa Mateo-San Ramón, Peñas Blancas-San Carlos and Naranjo.
“The outlook is positive. We are untying the knots that for many years slowed the country’s road development,” said President Carlos Alvarado.
The rotonda Garantia Socialies reconstruction is almost complete
Casa Presidencial notes on its website, “throughout the year, the MOPT has promoted numerous maintenance works in various cantons of the country, as part of the national strategy to overcome the road lag that the country has lived and contribute to the economic recovery and welfare of the population.”
The proliferation this year of “Se Alquila” (for rent) signs in store windows and closed doors, was not just a general perception by the population. In fact, the difficult economic situation in the country caused the closure of many stores and left the real estate market with vacancy rates above normal.
The worst moment came towards the middle of the year when vacancies in some segments exceeded 10%. For a commercial real estate market to be considered healthy, it must be below this figure.
However there were two areas that surpassed the rate; that is, those that were especially affected, the “neighborhood centers” and “strip centers”, in Costa Rica known as “centros comerciales”.
They are small shopping centers located in neighborhoods or in cantonal centers, or in more busy places, but that due to the size of the work are not considered large. They are usually made up of convenience stores, using an anchor tenant, such as a supermarket, surrounded by small stores installed, such as hairdressers, shoe stores, clothing stores, among others.
According to figures from the real estate consulting firm Colliers, the “neighborhood” and “strip” centers began 2019 in a healthy state, but as the year progressed showed signs o risk or high vacancies.
The “economic coup” has not been the same for everyone. Within these small shopping centers, the anchor tenants have not been affected while vacancies surround them.
To a lesser visible extent, vacancies during the year have appeared in large shopping centers as well, such as Multiplaza Excazú, where up a dozen vacancies can easily be counted, but nor readily noted or masked by creative marketing.
In the neighborhood and strip centers, the anchor supermarkets have not felt the effect as consumers have continued to spend on food products while sacrificing other purchases not deemed essential, not linked to day-to-day consumption.
According to Randall Fernández, directing partner at Zentral Real State, “businesses with points of sale are increasingly prudent in terms of their investments and now review their numbers more strictly to ensure profitability”.
Other changes that have affected the small commercial centers are the “presas” – traffic congestion – that exponentially increases daily. Then there is the tax issue and the weight of “social charges” has been one of the elements that the Cámara de Comercio (Chamber of Commerce) sees with concern, especially for small businesses.
Social charges are financial responsibilities businesses have for their employees, such as contributions to the Caja (social security), vacations, aguinaldo (annual bonus) and so on, charges that are not seen by the employee who, unlike in employment in North America for example, where the social charges are deducted from their gross pay, they receive a net salary unaware of the costs to the business.
Businesses can easily fall in arrears of social charges and can face sanctions or closure of the business by authorities, leading to business failure and vacancies in rental space.
The Cámara de Comercio has asked the government to apply an amnesty to businesses with arrears or late fees but willing to catch up, and reduce the possibility of closures.
The Cámara de Comercio points out, in their request, the failure of these businesses is a source of increases in “informal” (off the books) employment.
According to the organization, formal employment from 18.5% in 2018 to 15.9% in the third quarter of this year.
By 2017, the Cámara estimates there were more than 390,000 people employed in the retail sector, but by the end of 2019 the figure barely exceeded 340,000.
The hope is that for the next year the difficult situation can be reversed with a sustained growth, reducing visibly the number “Se Alquila” signs in shop windows.
Let the rage and recklessness on our roads stop. In the past week alone there have been numerous deaths on the roads, including a young boy falling off a bus in Limon.
“The Policia de Transito (Traffic Police) cannot be in all the places and more in a road network of 50,000 kilometers that this country has. We have evidence of the impatience, recklessness, and rage of Costa Ricans,” said Rodolfo Méndez, Minister of Public Works and Transportation.
Despite the intensive special operations – since several weeks ago – on the roads to control risk factors such as speeding or alcohol abuse, the efforts seem in vain crashes like the one in the early morning of December 26, when a lone vehicle crashes into the pedestrian bridge near the INA, on the Autopista General Cañas (Ruta 1).
The vehicle must have been traveling at great speed when it hit the concrete structure, the driver and passenger most likely not wearing seatbelts, as they were thrown from the vehicle on impact, possibly taking their last breaths on the blacktop.
No other vehicles were involved in the fatal crash. Authorities theorize alcohol or drugs involved. See the original report here (in Spanish).
At the end of November 2019, 385 traffic deaths were reported which represents 10 fewer deaths compared to the same period in 2018. In 2017 there were 414 in 11 months.
According to the Consejo de Seguridad Vial (Cosevi), a division of the Ministerio de Obras Publicas y Transportes (MOPT), from 2012 to November this year, 1,286 motorcyclist deaths were reported, representing 40% of the 3,223 deaths of the period in traffic accidents. The La Nacion has an extensive report (in Spanish) on subject of motorcycle deaths, see it here.
Experienced drivers and transport officials agree that stopping this epidemic involves getting people to relearn to live in the streets. However, the measures to achieve this process have little effect in the country and, for now, its effectiveness in curbing the massacre on the road is statistically imperceptible.
“We call on the population to abandon rage, abandon practices of recklessness, impatience and to have peace in our lives,” said the MOPT minister.
Several videos on social networks show the problems the driver when his/her vehicle got stuck on the beach of Playas del Coco, Guanacaste.
The report by Ahora Noticias did not explain why the vehicle was on the beach, other than due to the high tide, the driver could not get it out. Another driver tried to tow the car in trouble but it was useless.
In the end, heavy machinery was necessary to the car out.
Authorities call on vacationers to respect safety zones and keep cars off the beaches.
Given as the weather was cold in San José during the Tope Nacional this year, there were fewer scantily models on horses compared to previous years.
Despite that, not everyone stayed home, more than one beauty weathered the cold temperature, due to the sun hiding behind the clouds and intermittent light showers.
Horses and their riders take over the streets of downtown San Jose on Monday, December 26
Horses and their riders take over the streets of downtown San Jose on Monday, December 26
Buffalo created chaos in downtown San Jose before being controlled
A buffalo that participated in the Tope Nacional (Horse Day in San Jose) caused tremendous chaos when it went out of control and stormed into people
The buffalo that created chaos in downtown San Jose before being controlled and taken to a safe place
The animal, passing in the vicinity of the Puchos bar in San José (Calle ), when for unknown reasons became enraged, stormed against the protective railings, pushing them away.
The action caught on camera and published by Ahora Noticias. See the video here.
An assistant managed to capture the moment when the buffalo was wreaking havoc and shared it with Ahora Noticias. See the video here.
It is unknown why the buffalo lost control or if the damage to be buggy was before or during
The staff of the National Animal Health Service (SENASA) reported that the animal was controlled in time before causing a major misfortune.
The SENASA reports the buffalo was examined and had no injury and was then taken to a safe place, to say it was removed from the Tope activity.
For the uninitiated in San Jose culture, the day after Christmas is “horse day”, when thousands of horses and their riders take control of the downtown, the 3.6 kilometers from the Plaza Viquez to west end of Paseo Colon, to parade for the tens of thousands who come out to enjoy the ‘circus without a tent’.
San Jose mayor Johnny Araya was one of the participants in the Tope 2019
In the 2019 event, 1,700 riders and their horses took part in the even, each rider pays an inscription of ¢15,000 colones. The ¢25.5 million colones goes to the coffers of the Comisión de Festejos de San José, that organizes the event.
Thus, a vehicle rented at the airport has a 13% airport fee and a 13% VAT. However, on vehicles rented not at the airport you pay only the 13% VAT.
Remember, every vote counts.
