Howler Magazine April 2017

SERVING COSTA RICA SINCE 1996

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The HEART of COSTA RICA SANCTUARIES & WILDLIFE RESCUES - PG. 12

APRIL /

MAY

2017

COMBO ADVENTURES PG 48

SURF SPOT PLAYA GRANDE

PG 56

DINING GUIDE FEATURED RESTAURANT

ANGELINA'S

PG 71

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Feature

CONTENTS 18

Gardening for the Future of Guanacaste

12

32

Cannabis Today

cover story

Lifestyle Feature

The HEART of COSTA RICA

48

Travel & Adventure

72

56

DINING GUIDE

Featured Restaurant Angelina's

SURF SPOT New Column

COMBO ADVENTURES

HOWLER

58 Waves

YOU'VE MISSED

CONTENTS Deparments

18 Community 20

Surviving CR: Earth Day Alternative

23

Environment: Patching Holes...

24

Pet Care: Snake Bites

26

Legal Ease: Estate Planning

28

Community Information

28

Event: After the Dog Day Afternoon

29

Community Directory

32 Lifestyle 34

Living your Yoga

36

Spanish: Breaking the Barriers

38

Photo Tips: Depth of Field

40

August Odysseys: Custom Boards

41

Tide, Sun & Moon Chart

42

Surf Science: The Science of Stoke

44

Surf Report

45 46 46 47

Recipe of the Month

45

Bucatini All’ Amatriciana

Spirituality: Dharma Superfoods: Sweet Potatoes Health: Heat Emergencies

48 Travel & Adventure 54

Off the Beaten Path

60

Cool Places: Puerto Viejo

62

What to Expect: Sunset Cruises

64

Happy Hours

38

Photo Tips

Depth of Field

64 Entertainment 64 66 68 69 70

Happenings: Happy Hours Robert August Surf & Turf Spotlight: Fiery Flamenco Guitar Horoscope: April 2017 Bookshelf: The Surf Lesson

71 Dining Guide 81

Restaurant Directory

82 Contributors

HOWLER

60

Cool Places

PUERTO VIEJO

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HOWLER

The

Tr o o p

Editorial

April/May 2017 Vol. 22 No. 4 PUBLISHER / EDITOR-in-CHIEF John B. Quam BUSINESS DEVELOpmENT Martin Svoboda

I don’t Care About Your Beach

M A N A G I N G PA R T N E R S John B. Quam Marty Svoboda

April is Earth Month… Enjoy where you live and take care of your environment. Don’t forget, we are the stewards of the Earth. That being said, we are once again preparing for the influx of visitors to our pristine beaches for Semana Santa. Go out and meet them, and get their names and addresses so we can then return their items (trash) they leave behind to their homes. Or, if the address happens to be 10 meters from their Momma's house drop it off there, as she probably won’t mind cleaning up after them due to their lack of training. This problem is faced every year. The mounds of trash are staggering. Much of this waste gets washed out to sea with the high tides, contributing to huge problems with the ecosystem and further stressing animals that are already struggling to survive.

Plastics are a big problem here. It's not that difficult to pick up and place objects of discard into proper receptacles or areas that can be picked up easily by the Municipality. We wouldn’t completely disrespect their homes by throwing our trash in their yards. Don’t do it in ours. “Your Mama is not here to clean up after you.” Enough said!!

EDITOR Michele Poff, PhD

Moving into Costa Rica’s pure beauty, we are highlighting a few animal sanctuaries this month.

Costa Rica has a wide and diverse population of wildlife: birds by the thousands, monkeys, sloths, jaguars, coatimundi and reptiles, far too many creatures to mention. The nature that we are surrounded with makes this place magical.

Along with our invasion of our animal neighbors’ homes come issues that cause plights for many creatures. We extend a big thanks to the many people in this country that have tirelessly devoted their lives to helping animals in need. Some of the animals can be rehabilitated and returned to the wild, and many cannot.

Driving cautiously is something that we can all do to not add to the problems. Be aware and respectful of your surroundings. Pura Vida. What's the Big Rush?? Be alert. If you see an animal in distress, there are many agencies and groups that are more than willing to help. Veterinarians in the community are the first line and the sanctuaries and rescue centers will always help. These groups are angels in our communities and need our support.

We also have many human charities that are so important. One of the big events in April is the Robert August Surf and Turf which supports CEPIA, a local charity dedicated to directly helping the underprivileged in our community. Robert August is passionate about giving back and is a driving force to the success of this event. He has raised hundreds of thousands of dollars through his events and has made it possible for CEPIA to have huge impacts on the lives touched. Get out... Golf and Surf... You don’t have to have any special skills to have fun. Let’s all get together and meet up for a great cause, and yet another reason to socialize and meet our neighbors.

Pablo Piccaso said, “The meaning of life is to find your gift. The purpose of life is to give it away.”

Our community is blessed to have so many caring and giving people. Your positive impact is notable. Thank you.

John Quam Hear See Howl

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OPERATIONS MANAGER Marynes Fernandez ART DIRECTOR M. Alauddin COVER PHOTO CREDIT Diamante Eco Adventure Park S A L E S C O N S U LTA N T S Rich Emory, Troy Radike Daniel Vance, Adriana Zerpa Sheldon Silverman, Bentley Fachner WEBMASTER Maria Focsa C o n ta c t

John Quam: headmonkey@howlermag.com Marty Svoboda: martin@howlermag.com Michele Poff: editor@howlermag.com CR Office: (506) 4701-5942 US Office: (720) 507-7596 (leave Message) Facebook: The Howler Magazine Costa Rica T w i t t e r : @thehowlermag The Howler Gold Coast CR S.A. Ced. Juridica: 3-101-725213

The opinions, beliefs and viewpoints expressed by the various authors in this publication do not necessarily reflect the opinions, beliefs and viewpoints of The Howler organization or its advertisers.

Copyright © 2017 by The Howler Gold Coast CR S.A. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted in any form or by any means, including photocopying, recording, or other electronic or mechanical methods, without the prior written permission of the publisher, except in the case of brief quotations embodied in critical reviews and certain other noncommercial uses permitted by copyright law. For permission requests, write to: info@howlermag.com The Howler Magazine does not assume responsibility for the content of its advertisements

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cover story

The HEART of

COSTA RICA Sanctuaries & Wildlife Rescues

by Marcet Araya / Howler Staff

C

osta Rica boasts an incredible array of biodiversity.

A couple hundred thousand animal species call this place home, and that’s not even counting the insects!

Over 80% of the earth’s land animals live in the tropics.

The rainforests provide the necessary habitat for such biodiversity: Plants grow much faster in rainforests than in more temperate climates, bringing in herbivores with a tasty smorgasbord of options. Because there are more herbivores, there are also more carnivores. The tropics present a rich environment for hundreds of thousands of species of plants and animals to survive and thrive.

Along with the sheer numbers of animals in this area come a lot of animals in need. Some are injured in their natural habitat by whatever Mother Nature throws at them, and others by humans impeding on their once sacred space. Some are injured by human error, such as a motor vehicle accident, and we can only hope not malicious intent. No matter the reason, as Costa Rica grows, its animals are being affected. Gratefully, people have responded to the ever-growing need for wildlife care by opening and running animal sanctuaries and rescue centers across the country, and we can only hope to offer them support by people shining light on the issue.

Costa Rica’s network of sanctuaries and wildlife rescues help protect wounded and vulnerable animals and nurse them back to health. Some focus on select species while most care for local wildlife in general. I wish I could say that all sanctuaries and animal rescue centers operate with the highest of ethics and the absolute best

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interests of their animal patients, but just like anything else, that is not always the case. Most here that we have encountered appear to be on the up-and-up though, and many of the smaller ones are run by passionate people driven by their love of the animals. We do encourage you to seek these out, and show them your support.

Ranging from large, species-specific facilities to small local ones, no clear numbers tell us just how many of these wildlife facilities exist here; we just know there are a lot. You can easily run across one along your way elsewhere if you’re paying attention, and these centers can offer memories to treasure for a lifetime. They can also offer sightings of wildlife that you might not see traipsing through the jungle along the designated path.

The people who run and work at these centers also extend all kinds of information about the animals, their habits, and habitats, which can help you more easily spot them in the wild.

So if you want to see some of Costa Rica’s exotic animals first-hand and learn more about them, visit one or more of these sanctuaries and wildlife centers. Just please always remember that the animals are not here for your amusement and entertainment, and in most cases, should not be touched or fed. Please show the utmost respect for the creatures with whom we coexist and the centers dedicated to their protection.

Below is a sampling of Costa Rica’s vast network of wildlife rescue centers and sanctuaries.

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Diamante’s Animal Sanctuary

Diamante’s Animal Sanctuary is Guanacaste’s largest and was constructed in partnership with La Paz Waterfall Gardens. Guests can interact with animals with up-close viewing and even attend a feeding. Diamante is home to the largest variety of species in one location. The residents in the animal sanctuary are all rescue animals and include: sloths, monkeys, pumas, jaguars, toucans and more. Diamante has dozens of species of frogs, snakes, birds and a world­class butterfly observatory. All rescue animals were donated by MINAE, the Costa Rican Ministry of Wildlife. In many cases the animals were held in less-thanadequate facilities and faced difficult circumstances.

Address: Guanacaste, Playa Matapalo Phone: 2105 5200 Hours: Mon-Sat 1st Tour 9:30am, 2nd Tour 11:30pm Entrance fee: $20 per adult, child under 12 free Website: www.diamanteecoadventurepark.com 2

SIBU Wildlife Sanctuary The SIBU Wildlife Sanctuary rescues injured and orphaned animals, and provides emergency veterinary services. They rehabilitate animals as they can, then release them back into the jungle when they are strong, healthy, and old enough. They promote wildlife as invaluable to the community.

Address: Guanacaste, Nosara Phone: 8413-8889 Hours: Daily 7:00am-5:00pm Entrance fee: Donation $65 per person Website: www.sibusanctuary.org 3

Nosara Refuge for Wildlife

The Refuge for Wildlife cares for injured, orphaned and displaced wildlife from the Nosara region and Nicoya Peninsula. Housing primarily howler monkeys, they also receive and care for a wide variety of other species. Their Emergency Response Team responds to over 200 wildlife emergencies annually, and is trained to handle monkeys and other wildlife damaged by whatever natural or human-involved cause. Their specialty is the howler monkey, so they receive members of this species from all over Costa Rica.

Address: Guanacaste, Nosara Phone: 2682 5049 Hours: Contact at info@refugeforwildlife.com Entrance fee: Donation of $50 per person Website: www.refugeforwildlife.com 13

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Centro de Rescate las Pumas

The mission of the Puma Rescue Center is to rescue, rehabilitate, and guarantee the quality of life Costa Rica’s wildlife, promoting the respect and appreciation of these animals and providing education about them to the public. The center houses primarily felines, but a small sampling of other creatures also calls this place home at the moment.

Address: Guanacaste, 4.5Km from Cañas Phone: 2669 6019 Hours: Daily 8:00am - 4:00pm Entrance fee: $12 per adult, $8 per child under 12 Website: www.centrorescatelaspumas.org 5

Proyecto Asis

Proyecto Asis focuses on wildlife protection, environmental conservation, and fostering positive cultural exchanges. The Animal Rescue Center there strives to provide animals with care and respect during rehabilitation. They aim to build a new environmental consciousness—indeed a more environmentally conscious global citizen--through their volunteer programs and Spanish classes.

Address: Alajuela, San Carlos Phone: 2475 9121 Hours: Mon-Sat 1stTour 8:30am, 2ndTour1:00pm Entrance fee: $31 per person, $18per child under 9 Website: www.institutoasis.com 6

Costa Rica Animal Rescue Center

The Costa Rica Animal Rescue Center is dedicated to protect and help endangered Costa Rican wildlife with all means available. Their first and foremost goal is to ensure the welfare of the animals at the center and help them recover from both physical and psychological wounds that have arisen from their past suffering. The mission of the Rescue Center is based on three steps: Rescue - Rehabilitation – Release.

Many biologists, zoologists, vets and nurses come to volunteer at the Rescue Center.

Address: Alajuela, San Miguel de Turrucares Phone: 8892 6771 Hours: Daily 9:00am-12:00am, 2:00pm-4:00pm Entrance fee: $10 per adults, 5$ per child Website: costaricaanimalrescuecenter.org

Costa

SANCTUARIES AND Alajuela

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Puntarenas

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WILDLIFE RESCUES 8

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Toucan Rescue Ranch

The Toucan Rescue Ranch’s (TRR) mission is to rescue, rehabilitate and release Costa Rican wildlife. TRR works with a model that focuses on conservation, education and research so a brighter tomorrow is promised to the incredible animals of Costa Rica’s rainforests. The Toucan Rescue Ranch is a rescue center specializing in toucans, but also rescues and houses a wide range of birds, raptors, and other wildlife from around the country. TRR works alongside MINAE, the wildlife Costa Rican governing agency, on the rescue and release of all wildlife under the center’s care. The Ranch operates thanks to a small staff, volunteers and interns who provide the utmost care for resident rescues, new arrivals and release candidates. They are a dedicated Costa Rican Foundation and U.S. nonprofit for Costa Rica conservation.

Address: Heredia, San Isidro de Heredia Phone: 2268 4041 Hours: 1stTour 9:00am, 2ndTour 2:00pm Entrance fee: $35 per person, $18 per child under 10 Website: www.toucanrescueranch.org

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Barra del Colorado Wildlife Refuge

The area protected has a hot and humid climate with no dry season, and is the habitat of the endangered West Indian Manatee as well as many caymans, crocodiles, and fish.

It is also home to a variety of tapirs, jaguars, cougars, monkeys, ocelots, and other mammals. Birds found includes osprey, toucans, cormorants, herons, hawks, and many more.

Address: Limón, Sarapiqui Phone: 5018 5988 Hours: Daily 8:00am - 4:00pm Entrance fee: $15 per person 9

Tree of Life Costa Rica

The Tree of Life Costa Rica is a wildlife rescue center and botanical garden located in Cahuita, on the Caribbean side. They assist animals in need of refuge due to loss of habitat, accidents, or pet trade or hunting. When possible, they rehabilitate the animals and release them back into the wild. They also have a breeding program for turtles and iguanas, for eventual release into the wild. They promote 14

conservation through environmental education at local schools, promoting the mantra Think Globally, Start Locally to this developing generation.

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Address: Limon, Cahuita Phone: 8317-0325 Hours: Tue-Sun One Tour per day 11:00am Entrance fee: $15 per person, 8$ under 12 Website: www.treeoflifecostarica.com/ 10

The Sloth Sanctuary

The world’s first sloth-only rescue facility, the Sloth Sanctuary of Costa Rica is located on the Caribbean coast, 15 minutes north of Cahuita. Their mission is the rescue, rehabilitation, research and care of injured, orphaned and abandoned sloths.

They offer educational tours that allow guests to experience this enigmatic mammal. Friendly, approachable guides explain the sloths’ behaviors, unique physiology and habitat. There is no touching or holding the sloths due to a stress response they experience when held by unfamiliar people.

Address: Limon, 11km North of Cahuita Phone: 2750 0775 Hours: Tue-Sun 8:00am-2:00pm (1 tour per hour) Entrance fee: $30 per person, $15 per child under 12 Website: www.slothsanctuary.com 11

Jaguar Rescue Center

The Jaguar Rescue Center is a temporary or permanent home for ill, injured and orphaned animals. With a focus on birds, reptiles, amphibians and small primates, the JRC provides veterinary services, round-the-clock care and comfort to animals that would otherwise be unable to survive in the rainforest or the sea of the Caribbean, in Puerto Viejo de Talamanca, Limón.

The primary goal of the JRC is to rehabilitate animals and reintroduce them back into their native habitats. Monkeys, birds, sloths, snakes and more are brought to the JRC and treated by professional veterinarians, caregivers and a hard-working team of staff and volunteers. When they are healed and healthy, most animals are reintroduced to their native habitats. The JRC also offers internship and research opportunities for biologists, veterinarians and researchers from around the world.

Address: Limón, Puerto Viejo Phone: 2750 0710 Hours: Monday-Saturday 9:00am-1.30pm Entrance fee: $20 per person (Children under 10 get free entrance) Website: www.jaguarrescue.foundation

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The Sloth Institute

Located in Manuel Antonio, the Sloth Institute dedicates itself to helping the sloth. They focus on research, education and release of hand-raised sloths back to the rainforest.

They also collaborate with the Toucan Rescue Ranch for orphaned sloth release. This is a wonderful organization, however they are not open to the public.

Please consider a donation ~ Ways to fund ~ For US corporation/foundation inquiries, contact sarah@theslothinstitutecostarica.org For checks/credit cards/wire transfers, contact mark. milligan@charity.org For any other inquiries, contact info@theslothinstitutecostarica.org

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Alturas Wildlife Sanctuary

The Alturas Wildlife Sanctuary receives animals that the government of Costa Rica confiscates from any type of illegal situation, usually the illegal pet trade or illegal domestication.

They also receive wounded, abandoned or orphaned baby and adult animals. Their mission is to rescue, rehabilitate and release the animals back to their natural habitat and to provide sanctuary for those animals that cannot be returned to the wild because of disability, injury or severe over-domestication.

They also work to educate and enlighten the people of the world about the amazing animals of Costa Rica!

Address: Puntarenas, Dominical Phone: 2200 5440 Hours: 9:00 –11:00 am, 1:00 – 3:00 pm - 1.5 hours tours, Closed Mondays Entrance fee: $25 per adult, $15 per child under 12 Website: www.alturaswildlifesanctuary.org 14

Osa Wildlife Sanctuary

Located on Costa Rica’s Osa Peninsula, the Osa Wildlife Sanctuary (Fundacion Santuario Silvestre de Osa) provides rescue and rehabilitation to injured, orphaned, and displaced animals indigenous to Costa Rica’s southern zone.

They work with the local community, local businesses and government to offer the best care available, and strive to contribute actively and positively to their local community.

Address: Puntarenas, Piedras Blancas National Park Phone: 8861 1309 Hours: 1 tour Daily 9:00 am Entrance fee: Donation $25 per person Website: www.osawildlife.org Disclaimer: We can not 100% validate all information. Please confirm and verify with your best effort before venturing.

Remember this is Costa Rica, relax and enjoy the experience… it might not be what you planned or intended… it could be much better!

Photos Courtesy of Diamante Animal Sanctuary, Costa Rica Animal Rescue Center, Jaguar Rescue Center, The Sloth Sanctuary, Toucan Rescue Ranch

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feature

COMMUNITY

GARDENING for the Future of Guanacaste

by Tom Peifer

If you want to live a long life, grow a garden.

The best fertilizer is the footstep of the farmer.

Chinese Proverbs

I

f irony were fertilizer I’d be knee-deep in vegetables right now—it’s like the Sahara around here in April.

Nonetheless, fruitful gardening is possible here any time of year with the right irrigation.

Let’s weed out a few widespread misconceptions.

Simply because the temperatures here are a bit more balmy than say, Saskatchewan, that doesn’t mean that everything is going to grow all verdant and lush ‘cause, you know, we’re in the tropics.’ Soils in Guanacaste are not the same as rich, fertile soils we may be used to. At the risk of generalizing, there are no soils on the hillsides, just a bunch of dirt, or something worse if you’re trying to plant around a newly constructed home with a view.

GROWING IN GUANACASTE Different people tend to have different luck with some vegetables. Keep in mind that every 100-meter rise in elevation is equivalent to 1 degree north in latitude. So, 18

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up in the hills, you can grow a lot more cold-weather-type vegetables than you can at the beach. Some hot weather cabbages do quite well around here, and even some lettuces. If you really want a certain veg in your garden, keep trying.

In the dry summers, assuming you have reliable irrigation, the best vegetables to propagate are: • • • • • • • • • •

Tomatoes Peppers, both sweet and spicy Mustard greens Melons, including watermelons (their leaves are really susceptible to disease in the rainy season) Okra (classic) Pipian (local zucchini variety) String beans, especially Chinese long beans Eggplant Basil Cucumbers

and/or washing away the soil. If it starts to puddle, move on and come back later. Counterintuitive as it may seem, it is as easy to kill plants by overwatering as by under watering, especially if the soil is clay-like, compacted or the plants are set a bit too deeply, so watch how the plant is doing and make watering adjustments if it’s not thriving. Exactly how much water your plants will need depends on your soil characteristics.

CRITTER CARE Many natural repellents and insecticides are available here, and we even have plants to make some of those repellents, such as using neem for an insecticide base. A tobacco solution works too.

Best rainy season vegetables include: • Pipian • Corn (the starchy variety, not sweet corn which is hard to come by here due to its disease susceptibility) • String beans • Root crops including taro and other root vegetables that look like taro • Yucca, which will take the worst soils here You can also grow many or even most of the dry season vegetables in the rainy season, as long as you give them ample air flow space. So, you will want to trellis your tomatoes and cucumbers in the rainy season. Youtube offers countless videos on how to build various kinds of trellises and tips on composting.

Disease is more prevalent during the rainy season, so leaf crops tend to have a harder time. I usually spend the green season tending to my fruit trees instead. If you do want to grow yourself some veggies in the rain, consider the differences in areas of your yard—put your root vegetables in the more humid areas and the tomatoes and cukes in a drier spot.

In terms of planting time, as long as you’re willing to work with the challenges Mother Nature brings at certain times of year, such as too much water or not enough, you can pretty much try to grow anything at any time. Small home vegetable gardens can really be started at any time of year. I tend to watch the locals, and plant my garden when I see the neighbors planting their corn.

Presenting another challenge, I’ve unfortunately run across a fair share of dead seeds here—I buy them in new packages, but nothing comes up. So if your Guanacastepurchased seeds aren’t sprouting, it’s probably not your fault.

IRRIGATING This year we’re supposed to be heading into an el niño year, which means more dryness than usual, so being able to irrigate will help quite a bit. If you can irrigate, you can start these seeds before it starts raining—like, now.

When you water, stay away from midday. Water either early or late. Water deeply, but don’t soak the soil. If you’re sprinkling, it should fall like rain, softly without compacting

Iguanas and other low-to-the-ground creatures like to chomp off the greenery as it shoots out, so I installed low fences that sort of work to keep them away.

THE SKINNY ON SOILS When you want your plants to flourish as you envision, you have to start with the right soil composition. Locals and local landscapers often resort to trucking in the more fertile “black soils” from the valleys, back up the hill to kick-start the process of landscaping. I would argue for incorporating some compost or other organic matter into the mix and keeping planting areas well mulched to avoid overheating of the soil in the sun. Homeowners can get a soil analysis done at CAFESA in Liberia, and you should choose samples from various sites on your property.

People who buy plants at the Sabado Féria in Tamarindo often ask if they are for full sun, partial sun, or what. That’s a step in the right direction. A guy just up the road from me manages to grow perfect basil plants all through the rainy season while mine are rotting away due to excess humidity.

The reason? He’s planting in a raised bed, surrounded by a concrete sidewalk, on the northern side of the asphalt highway. Microclimate awareness will come in handy around the different sides of your homes.

(Note: I’m happy to try to answer folks’ questions on Saturdays at the Tamarindo Feria.)

SURVIVING COSTA RICA

Chapter MMXVII

by Jesse Bishop

EARTH DAY ALTERNATIVE guess by now you’ve figured out that this month’s Howler is all about the Earth.

I

1939 when his radio show about the “War of the Worlds” was believed to be an actual news broadcast.

Now don’t get me wrong, the Earth is a very nice planet and certainly worthy of an entire issue of our publication, but I feel that the other seven or eight planets in our solar system don’t deserve to be overlooked.

Inevitably the movie industry started churning out different versions with ever improving special effects. By the time Steven Spielberg and Tom Cruise got their hands on it back in 2005 they managed to scare even yours truly.

Like many of you out there I was brought up believing that there were nine planets in varying orbits around the Sun. It was only recently that Pluto was demoted by the scientific community to the status of “dwarf planet”, and they went on to say that there are probably even more planets out there past Pluto. Up until that point its only real point of interest was being the only planet named after a Disney character, and there have been no movies I know of featuring the now fallen planet.

Not like Mars - now there’s a planet! It was not long after the then extremely unpopular notion that the planets orbited the Sun and not the Earth that people came up with telescopes that could reach out to other heavenly bodies, and in 1659 Mars was one of the first to catch the eye of early astronomers.

It was immediately assumed to be inhabited by beings who were either “Benign Intelligent Aliens” bent on spreading peace and love throughout the galaxy, or the much more popular ray gun wielding green monsters intent on conquest and the consequent ravishing of beautiful Earth women.

Mars has been visited recently by Matt Damon, Arnold Schwarzenegger, Val Kilmer, Tim Robbins and a host of other Hollywood types and has always been considered to be “Boffo Box Office” by those calling the shots in Tinsel Town.

I was a big Sci Fi fan growing up and one of my favorite movies was 1964’s “Robinson Crusoe on Mars” featuring lots of flying saucers and Martians, who confusingly all looked like Apaches from some John Wayne Western.

H.G. Wells was one of the first to introduce Martians visiting us in “War of the Worlds” back in 1898, featuring very unpleasant types that were bent on wiping out everybody with not even a thought given to ravishing anyone, and Orson Welles famously caused a national panic back in 20

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E.T. was a heck of a lot nicer.

Even Tarzan’s Edgar Rice Burroughs wrote a series of Mars books featuring one John Carter, who falls asleep in a cave in New Mexico while trapped by Comanche Indians and wakes up on Mars.

I tried getting through one of the books but couldn’t, which also happened when I saw the disastrous movie made of it a few years back.

Mars also has the distinction of being the only planet named after a candy bar.

Once you get past Mars you run into the Gas Giants, the most famous of which is probably Saturn with its ever popular rings. Sci Fi great Arthur C. Clarke sent the “2001” movie bunch there looking for life on its various moons. They didn’t find them until his third book “2032”.

There’s Neptune, which is pretty big too, but pretty much ignored, and Uranus, which has been the punch line for any number of crude planetary jokes over the centuries. You could say it’s been the “butt” of many a bad pun.

You don’t hear much about Mercury; it’s large enough to not have been “re-categorized”, but is basically a large cinder way too close to the Sun. And then there’s Venus, probably the sexiest planet of them all. As a general rule it’s been treated well by Hollywood over the years, usually inhabited by scantily clad types not at all opposed to the idea of a little ravishing.

But if you’re like me you’re probably here on Earth for the duration so you might as well just lay back and try to enjoy it.

ENVIRONMENT

Patching Holes in the High Road

by Tom Peifer

I think that I shall never see. A poem lovely as a tree. Joyce Kilmer

H

ard to imagine a troop of Howler monkeys finding fault with those words. In fact, the hustle bustle, aerial acrobatics and plenty of noisy vocalizations around my casita during the last few hours could be considered as solid proof.

Twenty some years ago, as my construction project dragged on, a neighbor Pedro took the time to show me a waist high sapling, just steps away from the porch. He patiently explained that it was an almendro del monte, that it stayed green all dry season and that it would provide welcome shade for my home in the future. His words of wisdom have been paying double dividends for quite some time.

As it turns out, the almendro del monte does stay green in the scorching veranos of Guanacaste, but first it drops all its leaves. The new growth is magenta colored and is highly favored as a food source by our arboreal amigos the howler monkeys. My local troop returns time after time for more than a month as the tree continues to send out new shoots and fills in the canopy in the nick of time to help me chill out on the hottest days of the year.

tree spinach as an afterthought. Bingo. Within a couple of years the monkeys had their highway and I discovered that they also savor the tree spinach which is easy to plant from stakes and a fast grower.

To round out the circular smorgasbord surrounding my home, my son planted a guaba—also known as ice cream bean—off to the other side and I plopped in a couple of cashew trees at the back. It is worth mentioning that when the guaba is in bloom it is also a source of abundant nectar and attracts hundreds of butterflies and hummingbirds. The cashew apple fruits seem to be a real thirst quencher for the howlers in late March and April. They’ll spend hours guzzling the astringent juices and conveniently let the seeds fall to the ground for collection and toasting for human consumption.

Apart from Pedro’s timely advice, with a bit of luck and partly by planning, over the years I’ve managed to provide the Howlers with a mix of structural support for their aerial migrations and food sources that ripen at different times as the summer progresses.

Full disclosure: If you’re dedicated to providing the monkeys with fairly contiguous aerial habitat and food sources, you can say adiós to any number of the fruits that you had planned on harvesting. Hey, like they say, it’s a tradeoff. In my case, I’ve traded off hundreds of caimitos per year, the leafy tops of my papaya trees get munched down to the nubbin and, depending on the variety, the mango harvest can be severely impacted.

Contrary to popular wisdom however, they never touch the bananas, and citrus also seems to be off the monkeys' menu.

Many folks know that the brilliant yellow flowers of the corteza amarilla tree, which will soon be blooming all over the hills around us, are another favorite snack for the howlers.

As luck would have it, there was one already established not far from my kitchen window. To fill the gap in the aerial highway between the two food sources, I planted live stakes of a number of the trees that are commonly used for living fences, and threw in a couple posts of moringa and Mayan

There are times when I suspect that the howlers are happier with my farming efforts than I am. All the same, they’re a joy to behold and a bona fide highlight for visitors from overseas. In my case, any success has been a result of luck and trial and error. Fortunately, in our area, for more than ten years, the folks at salvemonos.org have invested the energy and accumulated the expertise to help the howlers stay safe and sound in their arboreal domain.

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Pet Care

Dr. Gilberth Cavallini Dra. Leticia Cajal

SNAKE BITES

Sponsored by

The most common disease here and our dogs’ main enemy

S

ince the summer began, we have seen an increase in snakebites. In general the dry season and the strong winds seem to be the main causes of this outbreak. This is why we want to explain a little bit of what really happens with a snakebite.

Toxicity caused by the venom of a snake can be local or systemic. In humans, 20% of the bites caused by venomous snakes are dry, meaning no venom was injected. In all species the onset of clinical signs may be delayed up to six hours. That’s why urgent and supportive care are the keys for achieving an optimal outcome in venomous snakebites.

In our pets, bites usually are to the face and front legs for both dogs and cats, usually due to their curious nature. Fang punctures can be evident; sometimes it’s just like a line, or due to the fur will not be visible until there is already an abscess or necrotic tissue. A swollen area is usually found and sometimes feels hot to the touch. If the animal is bitten in the tongue or mouth in general, airway obstruction might be found. Neurotoxic venoms may exhibit no local signs other than bite wounds.

Complications may occur due to coagulopathies. The venom is producing assaults on blood clotting and tissue integrity, and altering fluid (blood and serum) distribution.

In some cases, depending on the species of the snake, the central nervous system function will be impaired.

Most venoms induce a drop in blood pressure resulting in shock. Coagulopathies are seen due to inhibition of blood clotting factors and compromise of fibrinogen and platelets function. The rate of distribution of venom toxins can be quite rapid in intravenous-bites, slower in intra-muscular bites and slowest in subcutaneous bites (majority). Bites to the face and extremities have slower venom uptake than to the tongue or abdomen. Some toxins can form a depot on the bite site, while others can penetrate deeper tissues and can redistribute with time back into circulation, resulting in recurrent toxicity. This can occur even days after the bite. Some snake venoms can be both neurotoxic 24

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and hemotoxic. Systemic toxic effects occur greatly in highly perfused tissues with organs more susceptible to thrombocytopenia (low platelets), hypofibrinogemia and the result of coagulopathy.

Systems affected Hemic/lymphatic/Immune-coagulopathies Respiratory, skin: tissue destruction, cardiovascular: shock, renal/urologic: renal failure, gastrointestinal: vomit and diarrhea, neuromuscular: generalized weakness( Osweiler, Gary et al, 2011).

Risk factors are: age, size, history of being bitten already, pre-existent disease or medication taken (Osweiler, Gary et al, 2011).

Local signs: angioedema, fang punctures, swelling, bleeding through the site of bite, erythema, ecchymosis, lymphangitis. Systemic signs: low blood pressure, respiratory changes, weakness, bleeding, excessive salivation, fasciculation, vomiting, hematemesis, diarrhea and oliguria (Osweiler, Gary et al, 2011).

In our hospital we have had really good results with these cases and applying the antivenom in the first 12 hours after the accident occurs has been really important in this success against intoxication. It is an emergency that can not be treated at home. If you see that a snake attacked your pet or you think that it might be a snake bite, take your pet to the veterinarian as soon as possible. In our country we use antivenom for Coral and other poisonous snake types. The complete treatment differs depending on the type of snake that attacked your pet, the risk factors involved and the time since the animal got bitten. In general, fluids (intravenous), antibiotics, anti-inflammatories, hepatic and liver protectors are some of most common protocols.

LEGAL EASE

ESTATE PLANNING

by Ivan Granados Attorney at Law

allows a person, testator, to determine how his or her assets will be managed and distributed at the time of death as well as to appoint the estate executor.

In the event that a person dies without a valid “testamento”, either by absence or invalidity, the person is considered to have died “intestate” and the distribution of assets will be governed by the intestacy laws of CR, which determine that the estate of the deceased will be transferred to the “legitimate heirs” according to a previously determined hierarchy who, although blood relatives, might be people the testator dislikes or with whom the testator is unacquainted.

“Da tua dum tua sunt, post mortem tunc tua non sunt”.

(Give that which is yours while it is yours; after death, it is not yours).

E

xecuting a testamentary disposition or a Last Will and Testament, in Costa Rica called “testamento”, can be one of the most reliable alternatives in estate planning.

The “testamento” is the legal instrument, executed in accordance with formalities established by CR Law, that

The “testamento” can be limited to disposition of assets within Costa Rica only and has no legal effects until the person’s death. Previous to that moment, the “testamento” can also be revoked or modified.

If you are considering buying any real estate in Costa Rica or already have, you should get proper advice from a CR real estate attorney who will help to properly set up your CR estate planning documentation and further explain the restrictions or limitations upon the freedom of testators, the requirements and types of testamentos, and how to avoid inconsistencies with any testamentary dispositions granted in another country.

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COMMUNITY INFORMATION EMBASSY CONTACT INFO: UNITED STATES +506 2242 4000 EU & CANADA +506 2519 2002 TOURIST POLICE +506 2654 6136

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•

After the Dog Day Afternoon Community comes out for a Great Cause

S

unday the 12th, the community rallied at Tiki’s Seaside Grille in Brasilito to honor and fundraise for Barbara Deppe’s Animal Rescue. The event brought out the best in the area, and the support was epic: drawings, photo ops for the dog attendees and the owners they brought along. The celebrity dogs ranged from the Great Dane to the Corgi’s.

Charlie Lopez and Band X kept the crowd entertained with great music. Awesome food and drinks served by Tiki’s staff.

The place was buzzing with social energy.

You can still donate to the worthy cause - it’s an ongoing effort!

Barbara’s dedication never stops and she always needs donations.

To donate: Drop by her location - 20 meters South of BCR, Playa Flamingo, Costa Rica or email: tierefuerbarbaraforanimals@gmail.com

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Photos by Paul German & Olivia Cipparoli

COMMUNITY DIRECTORY

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HEALTH

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april feature

Cannabis Today

LIFESTYLE

A joint effort

by Anne-Marie Fischer

O

n April 20, millions of marijuana enthusiasts around the world will unite in celebration of the cannabis plant and the international day of festivities commonly known as “420”. While usually associated with public smoke sessions and legalization advocacy efforts, the origins of “420” is generally attributed to some San Rafael, California high school kids in the 1970s who called themselves “the Waldos” and popularized 4:20 pm as the ideal time to “smoke up” after school. The term 420 lit up and soon became code for cannabis. “Deadheads” may foggily recall the number as a recurring motif of the psychedelic band The Grateful Dead’s music and road stories.

420 has become the international moniker for weed, grass, marijuana, cannabis, ganja, pot, crip, creepy, or whatever you may have heard it called. April 20 remains a significant day of celebration for those who appreciate and advocate for cannabis freedoms.

The world has recently seen more progress on the (re-) legalization of cannabis than ever before. In the United States, legalization of both medical and recreational marijuana is catching on like wildfire, despite the Trump Administration’s threats.

In 2016, the U.S. marijuana industry generated an estimated $7.2 billion. By 2020, the projected number of jobs in the cannabis industry will surpass those of

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manufacturing. Canada has its own legalization efforts underway. In Costa Rica, cannabis remains illegal for any commercial activity, but it has become decriminalized and actions towards legalizing medical marijuana are currently burning through Costa Rica’s Congress.

Medical marijuana, specifically cannabidiols (or CBDs), a compound of cannabis, has found a secure place in medicine. As cannabis mainstreams, more research supporting its medical benefits emerges. From pain management to treatment of epilepsy, sleep issues, spasms, neurological disorders, mental health issues, and more, cannabis is making its way onto more prescription pads. More than 2.5 million people in the U.S. are estimated to use medical marijuana, with 19% of some states’ populations under prescription.

Eight U.S. states, Canada, The Netherlands, and Uruguay are a few areas in the world at various stages of recreational marijuana legalization. While recreational legalization is not quite in the cards for many countries around the world just yet, there has been an overwhelming liberalization in terms of marijuana attitudes and decriminalization. In countries such as Jamaica, Colombia, Costa Rica, Chile, Australia, and New Zealand, you likely won’t face any criminal charges for smoking marijuana or even possessing small amounts. On the flip side, weed is still serious business in some places. In some Eastern European countries as well as India, Indonesia, and many countries in Asia and the Middle East, there are very strict laws controlling use, possession and especially sales that you don’t want to mess with.

In Costa Rica, cannabis culture thrives. In Tamarindo and surrounding areas, stores proudly display their various fashion options featuring the marijuana leaf. There are more whittled-wood penis-shaped pipes in this country than I can count. You’ll often get whiffs of cannabis when walking the beaches of the Pacific Coast and may even be approached with (illegal) purchasing opportunities. That’s not to say we should all just light up wherever we are.

Despite liberal attitudes on marijuana, it’s still not a good idea to blaze in front of an officer of the law and generally, no matter where you are, marijuana etiquette suggests that use should be discreet, and away from children. In Costa Rica, since marijuana is still illegal, criminal charges could be faced if there is suspicion of possession beyond personal use.

All things considered, the truth is that in Costa Rica, cannabis culture is alive and thriving among locals and expats alike. I’m willing to bet that it’s more common than we all think.

Since the waters have always been murky on the legalities of marijuana, it’s just not something people openly talk about.

Yet, I’m certain that cannabis culture is not restricted to one demographic, age or culture here in Costa Rica.

Even more good news is that with increased legalization efforts, the marijuana industry and cannabis culture are becoming more sophisticated worldwide. Growers and product manufacturers are producing edibles, oils, and vapes that are going well beyond the usual association of “ripping bongs” or “blazing doobies” and are making real impacts on human health. 4/20 is no longer about those California kids rebelling in the 1970s; it’s becoming an increasingly large part of liberal culture, and cannabis enthusiasm and advocacy don’t show any signs of waning.

Enjoy a safe and responsible 4/20!

THE STUDY

YOGA OF

BY MARY BYERLY

LIVING YOUR YOGA

B

eyond the physical postures of a yoga practice, there are the eight limbs of yoga ascribed by a man called Patanjali.

The first two of these limbs, the Yamas and Nimyamas, are ethical statements to guide our lives, and are a great way to bring your practice off your mat and into your life.

The first five precepts, or Yamas, are as follows: Ahimsa – compassion for all living things Satya – truth in thought, words, and deeds Asteya – not stealing, or not taking what is not freely given Brahmacharya – merging your energy with spirit Aparigraha – generosity

In looking through this list, it may be fairly easy to see how they can be lived off of your mat. They are reflections of the moral underpinnings found in the religions of the world. The principle of ahimsa can be part of how you decide to respect our earth, especially as we celebrate Earth day this month.

We teach the local kindergarteners that putting their trash in the “Basurero” is part of taking care of their living earth. Being honest with ourselves and others, and even not engaging in gossip, is acting on the principle of Satya. Asteya, beyond not stealing someone else’s property, can also be lived by not spending a lot of time on our social media while we are being paid to work (stealing someone’s time).

We may live Brahmacharya through honoring the sacredness in all beings, including ourselves (something we give verbiage to each time we use the term Namastè). How differently might I act towards others if I viewed each person as sacred? And Aparigraha can be the principle

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THE HOWLER MAGAZINE

behind how I give to others, whether it be in material goods or my time and skills.

The second five precepts, or Niyamas, are as follows:

Saucha – living purely

Santosha – contentment

Tapas – disciplined use of your energy

Svadhyaya – study of self Ishvarapranidhana – acting from love, devotion, good intent, and letting go of attachment to results of your actions.

While the Yamas are considered to be ways in which we interact with the world, the Niyamas are considered by many to be personal observances. Saucha can be looked at through how we maintain our physical body, our environment, and even perhaps the types of people or entertainment we surround ourselves with. Santosha is a way of accepting the present moment, so that we use our energy for what is in front of us, rather than running away from it or towards a more desired scenario. Tapas means taking action, and using our actions wisely. Svadhyaya is making sure that we continue to delve into who we are, and to see ourselves accurately, identifying and resolving issues, so that we can be our best in the world.

The last Niyama, Ishvarapranidhana, implies acting in the world with our best intentions, without expecting any reward or notice for doing so, kind of like letting our ego take a back seat.

Enjoy living your yoga on and off your mat!

Namastè, Mary

Quick sample of our constantly evolving menu

Tapas -Fresh Goat Cheese Crostini -Sea Bass Ceviche -Papas Bravas -Hummus Duo with Vegetables -French Fries

Home made DESSERTS! -Chocolate Trío -Piña Colada Verrine

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spanish

Un poquito más....

BREAKING THE BARRIERS OF LEARNING SPANISH

SPEAK Spanish

by Silvia Monge

L

earning is the one part of life that makes us truly understand the strength of always taking that next step.

Learning a second language is a challenge for the majority of the population. Like math, if you are not prone to that kind of thinking, it hurts. For most of us that lived through public school education in the past, mistakes equal ridicule or shame and struggling to learn meant we were not cut out for it. Both these premises are erroneous and dangerous.

Learning anything takes time and dedication. Learning and living in a foreign country takes courage. You are already pretty damn awesome when you make that first step – the day you decide to learn the language and engage with the people of Costa Rica. If you were to mix this up with laughter and good humor, you become a hero to the local people. Your attempt to fumble through and pantomime your needs instead of assaulting them with your native tongue, is very well received and welcome. This point is absolutely crucial, especially in the current sociopolitical atmosphere. People here do not dislike foreigners, they dislike rude people who are not interested in the local people and who are here only for the view. Don’t be that dude! Be the fool that laughs their way through each interaction until you start getting it.

Now let’s break down the levels of learning: Step 1: The Fool – The first level one speaks pidgin language, which means no worries about conjugation or grammar. You are in the toddler level; you sound silly and this level is all about attitude. Embrace it and learning will happen much faster and you will find many, many locals who will be very loving to you at this stage. Mantra: I can do this, everyone loves me all the more.

Step 2: The Sage – This is the phase where you start really learning the language. You can take a course, translate the language, and watch shows in Spanish with Spanish subtitles.

You are intentionally collecting knowledge and trying it out. You learn a new set of words and you go out there and attempt to use them correctly. You should be spending a minimum of 20 minutes a day engaging in Spanish, and talking to the gardener or cleaning help counts! Mantra: I get better at this every day.

Step 3: The Novice – You are speaking; going to the store is no longer too big of a deal, all the clerks know you by now anyway. You are formulating sentences and by George you’re throwing in conjugated words, but then a native speaker engages with you and you go right back to step one. Your saturation level hits and the world sounds like gibberish. This is an important and very positive sign. Each time this happens and you collect yourself and try again, your brain is reconstructing and changing to become a true bilingual person. This is a hard level to break through. The people who do create real connections with locals, 36

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take time at home to read books, watch movies and sing in Spanish. Spanish becomes part of who they are now. Mantra: Say what you can say.

Step 4: Bilingual – This is the moment you begin to think, dream and spend a better part of your life in Spanish. You are fluid between the two languages and you finally understand the slang and tone in order to truly engage with natives. You still get confused when a group of natives from one country talk to each other but you have come to terms with the fact that this is a part of life that is unavoidable and it doesn’t bother you. You just expand your vocabulary just in case you meet someone else from there. You also know it happens to the natives themselves; they are just as clueless when confronted with a Spanish from a neighboring country. Mantra: It’s all good! Pura Vida.

GRAMMAR POINTS TO PONDER Did you know that the words "Would" and "Will" do not exist in Spanish?

THEY ARE EACH AUXILIARY WORDS IN ENGLISH THAT INDICATE TENSE*, A TIME FRAME. Would is added to create the conditional tense and Will is added to create the future tense. In Spanish these are endings added to the end of an infinitive.

For example: Vivir - To live I would live - yo viviría I will live - yo viviré So when you want to say Will or Would you need to tack on an ending and when you see a full verb with ending similar to those above you know you need to put Would or Will before the word. *Verbs in Spanish change according to who is doing the action and when it is being done.

This process can take a year or many, depending on your attitude, sense of humor and gumption. The more you allow Pura Vida into your life, the easier and easier it gets. More importantly, there is nothing kinder you can do for your brain than exercise it.

Learning language or math is like yoga for your brain, it stretches and strengthens your mind and helps you avoid any number of neurological disorders. Even if you think you are not good at it, you will improve if you keep trying and you will enrich your life.

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37

PHOTO

TIPS

By Gregory Basco

DEPTH OF FIELD W

hat makes professional photos stand out? Often it’s great light, pleasing composition, and of course a great subject.

But one of the things that professional photographers use most often is a calculated choice about depth of field.

Put simply, depth of field is the area of a picture that appears sharp to the viewer’s eye. While in reality, only one plane in a picture is actually in focus and thus truly sharp, working with depth of field allows you to control which areas of the image your viewers focus on.

For example, using shallow depth of field can help you to isolate a subject from a background. This would require the use of a wide aperture such as f/2.8 or f/4.

VOLCANO Aperture (f/16) small aperture provides plenty of depth of field to keep both the poor-man's umbrella leaves and the distant crater of Costa Rica's Poas Volcano in focus

• CRYOLIPOLISIS

$280 USD

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$7 USD per unit,

1 session, 2 Area $160 USD One Area

• LÁSER RESURFACING $400 USD • FILLERS RESTYLANE $399 USD • MAGIC PDO THREADS $650 USD (Exclusive Pacific Medical Spa)

• SPIDER VEIN TECHNOLOGY $90 USD • OXYGENEO SÚPER FACIAL $90 USD • MARKING OF O ABDOMINALS • CELULITIS TREATMENTS • LÁSER HAIR REMOVAL AND MUCH MORE...

KEEL-BILLED TOUCAN Aperture (f/5.6) Large aperture provides shallow depth of field, rendering the background as smooth and out of focus and keeps the viewer's eye on the subject.

Conversely, you may want to maximize your depth of field (e.g., zone of apparent sharpness) in a landscape photo. This will allow you to have everything from your foreground to your background appear sharp. Apertures for this kind of photo would be in the range of f/11 to f/22.

If you don’t have an expensive camera you can still play with your depth of field. In the computer, Adobe Lightroom and Photoshop allow you to blur or sharpen areas of your photo. And many smartphones have a selective focus mode when taking a photo. Or try out an app such as Snapseed to alter your area of focus after you’ve taken your picture.

AUGUST ODYSSEYS

by Robert August

I

thought I was a surfer but it took a group of ladies to point out that really...I am a walker. A few years ago some ladies were in my studio for my shaping demonstration at Witch’s Rock Surf Camp. One of them asked me, “Robert how many miles do you walk when shaping a board?” I of course had no idea.

A week later they came back with a pedometer. Turns out they organized walking charity events and asked me if I would wear it while shaping. At the end of shaping just one board, I had walked over 2.5 miles. It made me think, and I started to calculate, over the past fifty years of shaping and documenting the boards, I have shaped over forty-one thousand boards. So with the above number, it works out to about 102,500 miles. That is over four times around the world at the equator. I’m kind of a skinny guy, so my take on this is, if your shaper is an overweight guy he probably hasn’t shaped many boards.

If you want a custom board from me, the process begins in my office or maybe at the bar… hopefully at a table with an ocean view. I meet with the client and fill out the paperwork and start writing down the numbers. I ask what they like and how they surf. I’m try to get them the best design for their surfing ability, so they can just go have fun and be stoked!

A surfer generally wants something that is super fast and responsive. But these two concepts work against each other.

Therein lies the art of shaping. I like to make a flexible board that achieves a level of speed with maneuverability. So when I’m speaking to the client, and learn the conditions he/she plans

to use the board in, that’s how we decide what the board will ultimately become.

Having shaped 41,000+ boards in my in my life, each board is made by hand. I only use the highest quality foam from US blanks. The blanks are meticulously marked for the specifications laid out in our first design meeting. Then I begin the shaping process.

I use the old trusted shapers’ tool of choice: the “Skil 100”.

The Skil 100 power planer is no longer in production, and is highly sought by knowledgeable shapers.

Shaping boards is still lots of fun for me, as each board is different. Surf boards can be very detailed in their “Custom Design”. As the word custom says, every aspect of the board is discussed and then prepared and finished to the specifications of the end user.

The work of shaping begins on one side of the board.

Shaping the rails and rockers to be symmetrical on each side is essential. If it is not symmetrical, the shaper, to say the least, is not good.

While shaping, your hands and fingers are just as valuable as your eyes. They are very sensitive; the human touch is the most telling. You run your hands on the board constantly to discern the variations or uniformity.

Generally these days, I produce about three boards per week.

I still really enjoy shaping boards, but I love meeting the people who come to the shaping demo I do weekly.

Shaping demonstrations are Wednesdays in Robert’s Shaping Studio. They are booked at the Witch’s Rock Surf Camp front desk.

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TIDE, SUN & MOON Day

Sunrise Sunset

Moonrise MR Moonset MS

High Tides

APRIL 2017 Low Tides

1 Sat

5:36am 5:49 pm

9:39am 10:34 pm

5:48am-9.27’ 6:09 pm-9.71’

11:49am-(-)0.68’

2 Sun

5:35am 5:49 pm

10:36am 11:33 pm

6:38am-8.84’ 7:01 pm-9.17’

12:22am-(-)0.76’ 12:39 pm-(-)0.18’

3 Mon

5:35am 5:49 pm

11:34am MR

7:34am-8.34’ 7:59 pm-8.55’

1:16am-(-)0.23’ 1:37 pm-0.41’

4 Tues

5:34am 5:49 pm

12:29am MS 12:31 pm MR

8:38am-7.88’ 9:07 pm-8.02’

2:14am-0.33’ 2:41 pm-0.94’

5 Wed

5:34am 5:49 pm

1:23am MS 1:26 pm MR

9:50am-7.63’ 10:19 pm-7.71’

3:22am-0.78’ 3:55 pm-1.27’

6 Thurs

5:33am 5:49 pm

2:13am MS 2:20 pm MR

11:02am-7.66’ 11:31 pm-7.70’

4:36am-0.97’ 5:11 pm-1.27’

7 Fri

5:33am 5:49 pm

3:01am MS 3:12 pm MR

12:08 pm-7.92’

5:46am-0.91’ 6:19 pm-1.01’

8 Sat

5:32am 5:49 pm

3:45am MS 4:01 pm MR

12:33am-7.89’ 1:04 pm-8.30’

6:46am-0.68’ 7:17 pm-0.64’

9 Sun

5:31am 5:49 pm

4:28am MS 4:50 pm MR

1:27am-8.16’ 1:52 pm-8.66’

7:36am-0.41’ 8:05 pm-0.29’

10 Mon

5:31am 5:49 pm

5:10am MS 5:37 pm MR

2:13am-8.41’ 2:34 pm-8.94’

8:20am-0.20’ 8:47 pm-0.01’

11 Tues

5:30am 5:49 pm

5:52am MS 6:24 pm MR

2:57am-8.58’ 3:14 pm-9.10’

9:00am-0.07’ 9:25 pm-(-)0.16’

12 Wed

5:30am 5:49 pm

6:33am MS 7:11 pm MR

3:35am-8.65’ 3:50 pm-9.14’

9:36am-0.05’ 10:01 pm-(-)0.21’

13 Thurs

5:29am 5:49 pm

7:15am MS 7:58 pm MR

4:13am-8.61’ 4:26 pm-9.04’

10:12am-0.14’ 10:37 pm-(-)0.14’

14 Fri

5:29am 5:49 pm

7:58am MS 8:46 pm MR

4:49am-8.44’ 5:02 pm-8.82’

10:46am-0.35’ 11:13 pm-0.05’

15 Sat

5:28am 5:49 pm

8:43am MS 9:34 pm MR

5:27am-8.17’ 5:40 pm-8.50’

11:24am-0.65’ 11:49 pm-0.35’

16 Sun

5:28am 5:49 pm

9:29am MS 10:22 pm MR

6:07am-7.83’ 6:18 pm-8.09’

12:00 pm-1.03’

17 Mon

5:27am 5:49 pm

10:17am MS 11:10 pm MR

6:47am-7.45’ 7:00 pm-7.65’

12:29am-0.72’ 12:42 pm-1.43’

18 Tues

5:27am 5:49 pm

11:06am MS 11:58 pm MR

7:35am-7.09’ 7:48 pm-7.24’

1:11am-1.11’ 1:28 pm-1.81’

19 Wed

5:26am 5:49 pm

11:55am MS

8:27am-6.84’ 8:44 pm-6.94’

1:59am-1.47’ 2:22 pm-2.08’

20 Thurs

5:26am 5:50 pm

12:45am 12:46 pm

9:25am-6.78’ 9:48 pm-6.84’

2:55am-1.70’ 3:24 pm-2.15’

21 Fri

5:25am 5:50 pm

1:32am 1:38 pm

10:27am-6.97’ 10:52 pm-7.00’

3:55am-1.74’ 4:30 pm-1.96’

22 Sat

5:25am 5:50 pm

2:19am 2:31 pm

11:25am-7.40’ 11:50 pm-7.38’

4:57am-1.55’ 5:32 pm-1.50’

23 Sun

5:25am 5:50 pm

3:06am 3:25 pm

12:19 pm-8.01’

5:53am-1.14’ 6:28 pm-0.86’

24 Mon

5:24am 5:50 pm

3:54am 4:20 pm

12:44am-7.92’ 1:07 pm-8.71’

6:45am-0.61’ 7:18 pm-0.15’

25 Tues

5:24am 5:50 pm

4:44am 5:18 pm

1:34am-8.50’ 1:53 pm-9.38’

7:33am-0.05’ 8:06 pm-(-)0.52’

26 Wed

5:23am 5:50 pm

5:35am 6:17 pm

2:20am-9.04’ 2:39 pm-9.94’

8:21am-(-)0.45’ 8:52 pm-(-)1.05’

27 Thurs

5:23am 5:50 pm

6:30am 7:19 pm

3:06am-9.46’ 3:25 pm-10.31’

9:07am-(-)0.81’ 9:38 pm-(-)1.38’

28 Fri

5:23am 5:50 pm

7:27am 8:21 pm

3:54am-9.70’ 4:11 pm-10.42’

9:55am-(-)0.96’ 10:26 pm-(-)1.45’

29 Sat

5:22am 5:50 pm

8:26am 9:23 pm

4:42am-9.71’ 5:01 pm-10.25’

10:43am-(-)0.87’ 11:14 pm-(-)1.27’

30 Sun

5:22am 5:50 pm

9:25am 10:23 pm

5:32am-9.52’ 5:51 pm-9.85’

11:33am-(-)0.55’

Moon Phase

1st Q 12:40 pm

Full 2:10am

3rd Q 3:58am

New 6:17am

SURF SCIENCE

by Ryan Waldron

THE SCIENCE OF STOKE

Why does surfing make us happy?

T

he ongoing theme of this column has mostly focused on the science surrounding wave mechanics, surfforecasting, meteorology, etc. This month, I’ve decided to take a small hiatus from this theme and focus on a more cerebral topic with its roots grounded in psychology: The Science of Stoke!

What keeps us paddling back out? While sunbathers, frisbee throwers, and margarita drinkers prefer their view from the sand, surfers face whatever elements Mother Nature can throw at them for the yearned-after reward of (in the words of Spicolli) a few tasty waves. Here in the year-round paradise of Costa Rica, surfers have it fairly easy when it comes to harsh conditions. The most we deal with is a little “cold” water caused by upwelling and the stiff papagayo winds. Many of those who were fortunate to grow up here can’t imagine embracing a 5 millimeter wetsuit, booties, gloves, and hood to chase mediocre waves in (almost) freezing water. But trust me, as a former wave-starved surfer from Virginia Beach, I have chased the Stoke through some pretty unfriendly conditions.

SURFER IN SNOW Surfers can be a bit obsessive. We call out of work, blow off plans, and even make major life decisions based around catching our next wave. So this begs the question….What is it about riding waves that brings us back time and time again? Or more simply put, Why does surfing make us happy?

In a relatively new branch of Psychology (known as Positive Psychology), researchers use a scientific approach to understand the day-to-day qualities that add to a betterthan-normal life.

Psychologists are now finding that feelings of general happiness coincide with instances of “Flow” in everyday life. As defined, Flow is “An almost automatic, effortless, 42

THE HOWLER MAGAZINE

yet highly focused state of consciousness that we can experience when devoting ourselves to a meaningful challenge.” It can occur spontaneously in daily life when playing music, exercising, writing, painting, or surfing— basically, any activity that requires our highly focussed, undivided attention. Effectively, entering the Flow dissolves a part of our personal identity.

From a neurological perspective, entering the Flow makes more sense. Human brains can only process a certain amount of informational bits per second. So when we are 100% consumed in an exterior activity (like riding challenging waves that require our full attention) we lose our identity, and the awareness of our own existence is temporarily suspended. The mind and body are no longer separate entities; we read and ride in perfect synchronicity without thinking. By merging our intention with the wave, we experience a deep enjoyment and involvement with life.

A musical composer once described being in the Flow as “You are in an ecstatic state to such a point that you feel as though you almost don’t exist. I have experienced this time and again. My hands seem devoid of myself, and I have nothing to do with what is happening. I just sit there watching it in a state of awe and wonderment. And the music just flows on itself.”

Although we may be able to “lose” ourselves when watching TV, washing dishes, or casually driving a car, neither the challenge at hand nor the required skill level are high enough to induce real Flow. The presented challenge must demand a heightened level of focus and skill, as there is with riding waves. In my experience, very few moments in life rival the timeless thrill of riding through a perfect tube or racing down an avalanche of water. We lose our exterior identity to find our inner-nature in a transcendental sense.

We escape our ordinary routines and clouded minds (if only for a few seconds) to arrive in a more blissful, pure existence where everything makes sense. It’s a feeling all surfers know; it’s what keeps us paddling back out time and time again,

rain or shine, searching for that perfect wave. These are the moments when time stands still, life’s problems disappear, our mundane lives don’t seem to matter, and for just a few instances, we are totally in the Flow: We are happy.

FLOW CHART

In his book, Flow: The Psychology of Optimal Experience, Mihalyi Csikszentmihalyi outlines what it feels like to be in the Flow. (Sounds a whole lot like surfing!)

Completely involved in what we are doing—focused, concentrated.

A sense of ecstasy—being outside of everyday reality (ecstatic) Great inner clarity—knowing what needs to be done, and how well we are doing Knowing that the clarity is doable—that our skills are adequate to the task A sense of serenity—no worries about oneself, and a feeling of growing beyond the boundaries of the ego Timelessness—thoroughly focused and present, hours seem to pass by in minutes Intrinsic motivation—whatever produces flow becomes its own reward You know exactly what you need to do from one moment to the next. Work is done for its own sake.

Sources: Csikszentmihalyi, Mihaly. Flow: The Psychology of Optimal Experience. New York: Harper & Row, 1990. Print.

So remember this article next time you’re out in the water. Everyone’s out there looking to enrich their lives with a little more happiness with each wave. Enjoy the ride, and keep a smile on your face :)

Photo by

Author Ryan Waldron finding the Flow inside some Guanacaste perfection

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43

Surf Report

by Serena Nava

Competition Results The contest was in Mal Pais, Santa Teresa March 11 and 12. Conditions were offshore in the morning, then moved onshore around 11:00 a.m. Waves were about 4-5 feet.

Saturday was good: blue conditions and clean. Sunday, for finals, was onshore and a lot of wind. Sideshore created a current going to the east. Nevertheless, all of the competitors still managed to make it look good.

Results 1. Anthony Fillingim 2. Jose Lopez 3. Lorenzo Wickstrom 4. Ramon Taliani

Open Women 1. Valentina Resano 2. Serena Nava 3. Rubi Brownell 4. Christine August

Juniors 1. Sebastion Mora 2. Tiago Carrique 3. Sam Reidy 4. Dean Vandewale

Boys U16 1. Sam Piter 2. Dean Vandewalle

3. Tiago Carrique 4. Sam Reidy

Boys U14 1. Sam Piter 2. Aaron Ramirez 3. Sam Reidy 4. Darshan Antequera

Girls U16 1. Rubi Brownell 2. Serena Nava 3. Kitty Brewer 4. Candelaria Resano

Groms 1. Candelaria Resano 2. Kendal Rosales 3. Auxiela Ryan 4. Kalani Abrahao

Photo Credit: Rachaeltannerphotography.com

Open

Recipes by

Reci pe o f th e M o nth

CLASSIC NEGRONI 1.5 oz of Campari 1.5 oz of Gordons Gin

1.5 oz of Vermouth Rosso

Instruction: Shake with Ice and strain into a chilled martini glass.

Garnish with orange twist or wedge. Can also be served on the rocks.

The most widely reported version of this drink’s origin is that it was invented at Caffe Casoni in Florence, Italy in 1919. Legend tells that Count Camillo Negroni asked his friend, bartender Forsco Scarselli, to strengthen his favourite cocktail – the Americano – by replacing the soda water with gin.

BUCATINI ALL’ AMATRICIANA Ingredients • • • • • • • •

3 oz of cured guanciali or pancetta medium dice 1.5 oz white onion small dice 4 oz crushed, cooked roma tomatoes pinch of red pepper flake 2 oz of grated parmesan cheese 4 oz of dry bucatini pasta 1.5 oz extra virgin olive oil Fresh Italian parsley

• Shaved Pecorino cheese

Photos by Paul German

Drink’s History

Method 1. Cook the bucatini pasta in salted boiling water 2. Heat half of the olive oil in a heavy bottom saute pan 3. Add the guanciali and cook until the fat renders and the pork starts to become crispy 4. Add the white onion and continue to cook the pork and onion together until the onion is soft and transparent 5. Add the tomato and hot pepper flakes and set aside 6. When the bucatini is cooked aldente drain the water and add the pasta slowly mixing in the parmesan cheese and reserved olive oil 7. Add salt and pepper to taste and finish with shaved pecorino

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45

Wellness

Spirituality, Superfoods, & Health

DHARMA TO U C H I N G T H E EA RT H

WE'LL SEE

by Sue Smith

T

here was once a young man who found a horse wandering loose in the forest. He looked for the horse’s owner and when he found none, he took the horse home to his family. Having a horse was a great thing for this poor family and changed their lot in life.

They excitedly went to tell the village guru (teacher) of their good fortune exclaiming "Oh, honorable teacher isn't this marvelous luck!!" The guru simply smiled and said "We'll see." After several weeks the horse became lost. The family was devastated and again went to speak with the guru exclaiming "Oh, how awful is our luck!"

Again, the guru simply said "We'll see." One day, after a few months, the horse came running into the yard followed by several other horses he had gathered as his herd. The family was joyous and said “Can you believe our good luck?” but, again, the guru only said "We'll see."

The boy began to train and ride some of the horses so that they were useful and also could be sold to provide an income for the family. But one day while riding, the boy was thrown from the horse and broke his leg. His parents went to the temple to offer incense and prayers for the boy. Expressing their sadness to the guru, once again the guru simply nodded and said, "We'll see." Not long after the boy's accident his small country went to war with it's neighbor. The military came to the boy's village and took all the able-bodied young men to help fight in the war. Most of those boys never returned home. However, the boy remained safe in his village because of his broken leg.

This story is a demonstration of how situations can only be judged in the light of present circumstances.

And, circumstances are always changing. Everything is impermanent.

It is because of this law of impermanence that the Buddha taught that we should avoid attachment… attachment to things, attachment to ideas and attachment to our views of things as good or bad. So when someone asks, "Isn't that just awful??" the most enlightened answer is simply "We'll see."

Try adopting a "We'll see" attitude. It's incredibly liberating!!!!

46

THE HOWLER MAGAZINE

The Sweet Side of

Sweet Potatoes Howler staff

You won’t believe the nutritional value of these squiggly pinkish potatoes.

O

ne medium sweet potato (Spanish: camote) gives us more than 100% of our daily needs for vitamin A, an antioxidant powerhouse linked to anti-aging benefits, cancer prevention, and good eyesight maintenance.

Adding some fat to your sweet-potato meal, like a tablespoon of olive oil, enriches its beta-carotene benefits.

Sweet potatoes also contain notable amounts of vitamin B6 (16% of our daily needs), which helps reduce the chemical homocysteine, linked with degenerative diseases including heart attacks. High amounts of vitamin C (37%) help ward off cold and flu viruses, accelerate wound healing, and produce collagen to help the skin maintain its youthful elasticity.

Vitamin D, also prevalent, is essential for the immune system and overall health by strengthening the bones, heart, nerves, skin, and teeth, as well as supporting the thyroid gland. Sweet potatoes are high in magnesium (28%), helping alleviate stress, and potassium (15%), helping to regulate the heartbeat and nerve signals. Also, although they are sweet, the natural sugars release in the bloodstream slowly, helping to ensure a balanced and regular energy source without the blood sugar spikes linked to fatigue and weight gain.

Their consumption can result in a lowered glycemic index, important for diabetics to know.

Just like any other vegetable, you will get the most nutrition from the sweet potato if you steam or boil it.

Steaming helps preserve certain nutrients (anthocyanins), and boiling, as opposed to roasting, brings better blood sugar effects. They are delicious roasted, puréed, steamed, baked or grilled. Keep the skin on to maximize your intake of fiber, potassium and quercetin the sweet potato offers.

Add them to soups, grill them and place them atop a salad, or add them to smoothies and baked goods. Mix them with other potatoes for a healthy and flavorful new twist to your usual mash or hash. Use sweet potato flour, available locally at La Oliva in Brasilito and the Saturday Tamarindo farmers market, in pancakes and baking.

As a medical alert, if you’re taking beta-blockers or if your kidneys are not fully functional, you should minimize sweet potato consumption because of their high potassium levels, which may bring a host of problems better to not set off.

HEAT EMERGENCIES

by Dr. Herbert Weinman

A

s the mercury rises here in April, it’s an especially good time to review coping with the heat. When the temperature of the surrounding air equals or is greater than that of the body, heat must be lost by moisture or sweat from the body surface.

As air becomes more humid, vaporization from the body surface slows. A hot day with high humidity and no breeze furnishes an ideal situation for heat retention and the following medical emergencies may occur: heat exhaustion, heat cramps, and heatstroke.

from a loss of salt from the body which causes painful spasms especially in leg and abdominal muscles.

Treatment of the cramps is fluid and salt intake usually in the form of commercial electrolyte solutions such as Gatorade.

Gentle massage on the cramped muscles can provide relief.

Heatstroke (or sunstroke) is especially common in elderly individuals exposed to hot surroundings for prolonged periods.

The skin is dry, red, and hot, in contrast Heat exhaustion occurs when active in hot to the pale, moist skin of heat exhaustion. environments. “Near-fainting” is caused by the The pulse is rapid and the patient may be pooling of blood in the lower extremities. When THE DOCTOR IS IN unconscious and remain so for a long period a person is standing or sitting, blood flow to the of time. This condition is very serious. heart and brain can be inadequate. Clinically the skin feels cold and clammy, the person looks Patients should be moved to a cool place. Coolness should pale, the pulse is weak, breathing is shallow, and loss of be applied to the entire body by cold packs, spraying with consciousness can occur. cool water, or wrapping the patient in constantly moistened Treatment consists of moving the patient to a cooler sheets. The patient should be placed in competent medical place, laying the person flat on the floor and placing cold care as soon as possible. This is an emergency! applications to the skin. Clothing should be removed since It’s much easier to prevent heat emergencies than to exposing the skin will facilitate loss of heat. The patient have to treat them. When working in a hot environment, usually recovers fairly quickly. take frequent rest periods for “cooling off.” It is extremely Heat cramps are seen in people who engage in activity important to drink plenty of water to keep the body fluid in a hot environment and sweat a great deal. Cramps result volume at or above normal levels.

刀䔀䄀䰀 䔀匀吀䄀吀䔀 䤀一嘀䔀匀吀䤀一䜀 䤀匀 伀唀刀 䈀唀匀䤀一䔀匀匀Ⰰ 伀唀刀 伀一䰀夀 䈀唀匀䤀一䔀匀匀

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TRAVEL & ADVENTURE

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Combo

Adventures C

osta Rica has a couple ‘must-do’ activities: zip lining and wildlife spotting. Most persons who come to visit Costa Rica have only a short time to make the most of all Costa Rica has to offer. That means maximizing the time between adrenaline and relaxation, and splitting time spent tanning on the beach with exploring rainforests.

Luckily, you can do both and more on the same day, while accommodating the different inclinations that your travel group may have.

Adventure parks are located throughout the country. Most are not more than 30 minutes outside a major beachside or inland town; some are easy to get to via rental car or arranged transport and some… well it is Costa Rica, where the wheels on the bus go bump, bump, bump. Places like Monteverde, Arenal, Jacó, Manuel Antonio and Playas del Coco are hubs of activity that showcase different microclimates.

Combo tours at the various adventure parks provide a selection of activities that will fit your schedule. Most adventure parks offer the flexibility of single activities or combos of multiple activities for a discounted rate.

Being in more remote areas, lunch and refreshments tend to be available and transport is easily arranged.

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by Ariana Clashing O’Reilly

Costa Rica is well known for its innovative conservation practices that have been responsible for the reforestation of 70% of its land. In the last 30 years, there has been a concerted effort to link conservation to economic growth.

This is especially evident with the adventure parks across Costa Rica. Parks cover hundreds of acres, and less than 10% of that land has structures. Through trails and ziplines, many waterfalls, canyons and tree tops of primary and secondary rainforests can be explored.

Parks offer a notable economic benefit by employing large numbers of locals in the specific areas. They showcase the best the country has to offer: nature, friendliness and a high level of professionalism. With tourism products and services that highlight the natural beauty and biodiversity of the country, ventures like the adventure parks have helped elevate communities especially outside the urban cities of the capital.

The challenge may be how to choose which park to go to.

Ziplining is at the core of each adventure park. Mixing and matching that with a range of other activities depends on what Costa Rica list of activities and destinations you’d like to capture in your group and selfie pics.

As a sampling of the various activities available, here’s one combo package from each of four prime tourist areas:

DIAMANTE ECO-ADVENTURE PARK Playa Matapalo, Guanacaste

A 20-minute drive from Playas del Coco, Diamante is the only adventure park in Costa Rica with ziplines overlooking the beach.

Diamante is the largest adventure park in Guanacaste.

Two particular features of this adventure park make this a stand-out experience: the zipline and the animal sanctuary.

There’s a Superman zipline which you can enjoy side by side with your travel buddy. Whistling down towards the clear blue seas, this is one of the most exciting rides in Costa Rica. As if that isn’t enough adrenaline, a series of short ziplines takes you to free-fall quick-jump, tarzan swing and a walk across a crocodile pond via the a hanging bridge. Taking the tone down a notch is the animal sanctuary. For children this is a highlight as the large enclosure of wildcats, monkeys and sloths are a treat.

Because Diamante is by the ocean, it offers some unique combo adventures: beach activities that include Stand-up paddling and Kayaking.

Diamante also offers transportation by boat, the Diamante Express, along the stunning north Pacific coastline. With pick up points from Tamarindo to Playas del Coco, it is an add-on that concludes your day in bliss.

Combo Passes: • • • • •

Discovery Pass: Animal Sanctuary $38 Aerial Pass: Zipline tour: $68 Adventure: Animals, Zipline, Beach & Lunch $98; Add ons: Horseback (1hr $48) + ATV ($58) 506-2105-5200

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• http://diamanteecoadventurepark.com/en

OCEAN RANCH PARK Jacó, Puntarenas

A 15-minute drive south of Jacó, this is one of easiest beaches to get to from San Jose.

On a four-activity combo you start the Ocean Ranch Park experience with a 90-minute horse ride to one of the five waterfalls on the property. With harness and ropes you rappel down the 180m long waterfall. A thrilling endeavour, it is immediately followed up with a series of ziplines, the final one flying you above the private river running through the property. After a beer and a meal at the Rancho, instead of jumping and flying, you are treated to an afternoon of four-wheeled ATV exploration.

Visualizing and appreciating 850 acres isn’t easy. It just sounds large. This is where the ATVs come in. It is not just a joy ride; it’s a way to really get a sense of the park and how carefully planned it is. The sustainability and wildlife protection of the park is of utmost importance to the owner, Greg Jaquez, who has made a conscious effort to build a “well-planned community that offers all the beauty and abundance of nature that Costa Rica has to offer.”

To that end, the park even offers volunteering opportunities for those wanting to assist with the park’s onsite renewable energy generation.

And you are not done there with Ocean Ranch Park. They have other outstanding activities which combo adventure parks usually don’t offer: fishing, catamaran and crocodile tours are also available.

2-4 activity combos: • • • • • • • •

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Zipline ATV Horseback Waterfall Rappel Bird Watching ($170;140; 110) 506-2643-2182 www.oceanranchpark.com

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SELVATURA PARK

Monteverde, Puntarenas Selvatura Park is a 20-minute drive from Santa Elena where most accommodations in the Monteverde area are located.

The Monteverde cloud forest is known as one of seven natural wonders of Costa Rica. It’s set at 1,400 metres above sea level, so bring a jacket and walking shoes. Perpetually covered in misty fog, there is a sense of magic and peace in this area of Costa Rica.

On most zipline tours, you have to figure out how to brake at the end of the line so you don’t ram into the people standing on the landing platform. Not so with this one! The guides here take care of all of that for you, using a pulley system to slow you down upon your platform approach.

The enormous 26,000-acre Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve holds the largest number of orchids in the world and 53 species of amphibians. For this reason, the Selvatura Park focuses its tours on educating visitors about the range of wildlife here. The iconic Monteverde hanging bridges offer spectacular bird watching with the assistance of guides who have dedicated their lives to the forest’s conservation.

Combo Passes • Xtreme: Superman & Zipline ($75) • Rainforest Adventure: Canopy Zipline, Hummingbird Garden, Butterfly Gardens & Lunch ($116) • Eco-Adventure: Hanging Bridges, Hummingbird Garden, Butterfly Garden & Lunch ($66) • Selvatura Nature Package: Hanging Bridges, Butterfly & Insect Gardens & Lunch ($91) • 506-2645-5929 • www.selvatura.com

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SKY ADVENTURES La Fortuna, Arenal

This dynamic adventure park is a 35-minute drive from the center of La Fortuna. La Fortuna is associated with hot springs and views of the Arenal Volcano.

Sky Adventures is one of the largest adventure park operators in Costa Rica with a park in Monteverde and one in Arenal. The Arenal selection of activities is adrenaline pumping and unlike other adventure parks, provides a whitewater experience. As you move from zipline to zipline you can see the Arenal Volcano on a clear day.

The aerial trams, Sky Trams, leisurely take you up to the zipline and rope-based circuits. Think ski lift but with green canopies instead of powdery snow. After a day out on any of the Sky Adventure combos, a soak in the hot springs of La Fortuna will be a welcome treat.

If you are seeking a more water-based thrill, Sky Adventures also has a water based activity center on Lake Arenal where if you have the guts for it, you can try out the futuristic flyboard.

Combo Passes - Arenal: • • • • • •

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Zipline & Aeriel & Hanging Bridges ($99) Whitewater Tubing & Zipline ($127) Zipline & Aerial Tram & Canyoning circuit & Lunch ($144) Hanging Bridges & Aerial Tram ($67) 506-2479-4100 www.skyadventures.travel

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Off the Beaten Path

BY JOHNNY LAHOUD

THE BAMBOO ROOM & ALMA HOTEL

O

ne cool place to check out is the Bamboo Room in Ojochal. About 7 hours down the road, past Dominical and Uvita, you hit Ojochal, a cozy little pueblo fast becoming known for its music and food scene.

The Bamboo Room is a perfect fusion of both.

have live local music daily highlighted by seasonal bands that draw many locals from all the surrounding towns.

He has certainly done that and more. The Bamboo Room fulfills John´s vision to build a cozy high-quality music venue that includes a cool stage with a full lighting complement, the Owners John and Janet Chandry finest surround sound system and landed here via New Zealand, a recording system that has already Canada and the US, looking for a produced several live albums from B&B-type place to settle down and the local groups The G String create their own personal version Cowboys and the Canadian Blues of paradise living. In Ojochal, they duo Chuck and Bo. Plus the bar knew they were home the minute and food deserve their own props they saw the 3-acre property in as you’re guaranteed a great meal the hills overlooking Tortuga Beach and cocktail delivered by a super with an amazing sunset view. They amiable staff.

The Bamboo Room & Alma Hotel converted the main house into the So if you’re looking for a great place Ojochal, Costa Rica Bamboo Room, and have 5 cozy to take a vacation or a vacation Hotel (506) 2786-5295, Cell (506) 8380 5353 boutique rooms as well. from your vacation, head south www.almacr.com Janet and John told me their dream and make a pit stop at the Bamboo was to create a music venue first and then have a simple Room. You’ll find live music, great food, and good vibes, and quality restaurant with a simple set menu highlighted by daily the Chandrys will make sure you’ll feel the Pura Vida that specials in a casual dining atmosphere. John’s mission was to resonates all around Ojochal.

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Come check out our selection of jewelry, toys, games, sports equipment and beach chairs

Find us at Sunrise Mall #14 Tamarindo Tel: 2653-1157 chichisaenz@yahoo.com

Surf Spot Playa Grande

by Tim Thomson

Costa Rica is gaining in popularity for first time surfers: consistent waves, warm waters and natural beauty are to blame. First time surfers are either: just going for it, taking private lessons or attending one of the growing number of surf camps throughout the country.

In the Guanacaste area, we are lucky to have many surf beaches that will suit surfers of all levels. Some spots are best for beginners, some for experts; however most handle both, depending upon the swell and conditions.

One of the hidden gems that delivers for all is Playa Grande, located just across the estuary North of Tamarindo.

WHERE TO SURF Playa Grande beach has a sandy bottom. Depending on the strength of the swell and conditions, much of the time has little or no undertow and waves big enough to surf. Playa Grande is named Grande for a reason.

Most think it’s the 3 mile stretch of wide open sandy beach. However, anyone who has seen a strong swell hit Grande thinks differently. Any time there is a notable swell, proceed with caution, since riptides and undertow can be strong.

There are multiple beach breaks, starting at the south end river mouth up to the north end. Unlike Tamarindo and the busy surf beach, Playa Grande offers fewer surfers and a relaxed and peaceful surf experience most of the time.

The south end, known as Palm Beach, is great for beginner and intermediate surfers with beautiful waves that are not too big but enough to whet your appetite. Waves will typically be in the 3-4 foot range: consistent and fun. At any given time you will see only 10-30 surfers spread out in this area, so it is pretty tranquilo.

At the main beach, you find bigger waves and more intermediate to advanced surfers. Beginners and novices should not be trying to just paddle out to the line-up when the surf’s up. Please be honest with yourself. Although we encourage you to push yourself, be realistic with your abilities and practice surfer etiquette.

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Surf photos by Paul German, Aerial surf photo by Mark Haddad

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n a country with over 1,000 miles of beaches, Costa Rica has earned worldwide accolades for its surf beaches.

Annually tens of thousands of tourists and more specifically, surfers, are heading to the Costa Rican beaches.

“Non surfer” tourists are giving “it” a go, checking off their bucket list, while soul surfers continue to come from near and far to pursue their Endless Summer.

The main beach waves are optimal when in the 4-6 foot range and gets unbelievable when the off-shores are blowing.

However when the surf is Big, we mean big, Playa Grande usually doesn’t hold and most huge days are unsurfable.

This is when the swells reaches double + overhead. The occasions when the big surf does hold, Grande is no place for a beginner.

If you come to the main beach in Grande and don’t mind a bit of walk, head South towards Tamarindo and you will find some amazing waves.

GETTING THERE Grande is easily accessible by car, taxi and some surf companies will provide transportation. Local buses will take you to Playa Grande, but there are not many routes per day. Tamarindo is a 30 minute drive but well worth it if you want a slice of your own paradise. Some surfers do walk from Tamarindo and take a water taxi. Note: it is NOT recommended to paddle across the mouth of the estuary, there are warning signs posted because of the estuary wildlife.

SURF TIMES As with all surf spots the tide has a lot to do with the waves conditions: Playa Grande is a high tide spot. Best times to surf here are between 2 ½ hours before or after high tide.

There is still good surf to be had for beginners on the off times if there is a swell. Nice rideable, super fun, white water waves are abundant. Sunset surfing is spectacular here; the sun is dead center on the ocean and the sky is awash with a rainbow of colors.

LOCAL COMPANIES Local shops- Frijoles Locos and Playa Grande Surf Shop In Palm Beach there is Playa Grande Surf Camp and several local companies like Mojo Surf Adventures that offer lessons.

During high season, lesson reservations are recommended.

FOOD AND DRINK There is only one restaurant on the beach and it’s Taco Star, a classic!

Close is the restaurant in Hotel Las Tortugas and a short walk are a few close bars and restaurants: Sugar’s Monkey, Rip Jacks and La Marejada.

Going into the village is a classic Tico Restaurant & Bar called Kike’s Place and a few others: El Huertos, and The Point.

In Palm Beach, there are a few restaurants: Seven, Hotel Cantarana and Hotel Bula Bula.

WAVES

TIM THOMSON & JARRYD JACKSON

YOU'VE MISSED

D

uring late February and March the Northwest Pacific coast was fortunate enough to experience a couple good surf swells and were very consistent with some offshore days at northern spots like Avellanas and Playa Grande. The strong winds that the province experienced have been great for the surf community. Early morning was the best for surfing as the onshore winds would arrive early afternoon.

The full moon of mid March combined with the East coast snow brought a fairly strong SW-SSW swell producing some good chest high to overhead waves up and down the coast from Playa Grande south.

More offshore flow continued for northernmost CR (north of Playa

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Grande) for the next few days, strongest in the mornings before peaking on March 21st.

Playa Grande was clean and perfect in the morning high tides in mid March. The water warmed up into the low 30’s after a cold spell and the swell was running between shoulder and overhead on the sets and peaking at over 7 feet. In Tamarindo the waves and wind were back with the offshore winds producing some great breaks at the river mouth.

Photo by

However due to spring break many spots tended to be crowded.

Some fun days were had at spots further North like at Witch’s Rock and Ollie’s point with great weather and conditions being offshore all day.

COOL PLACES

PUERTO VIEJO The “Old Port” has a new vibe!

Today, Puerto Viejo tells a different story. This small beachside village now bustles with tourist activity, from stylish restaurants serving global fusion and dance halls pumping out reggaetón to street vendors peddling Rasta trinkets and Bob Marley t-shirts. It can attract all sorts of types intent on indulging in ganja and guaro.

SURFING IN PUERTO VIEJO Rated among the top surfing destinations in the world, surfing Puerto Viejo is no joke. It really is for those who know exactly what they’re doing. The waters have a strong rip current, rendering swimming a bad idea.

While the Salsa Brava is only to be dared by locals and professionals, there are other surf beaches for intermediate and beginner surfers to cut their teeth on.

Playa Cocles, a stunning white sand beach a 2km walk from the center of Puerto Viejo, is great for intermediate surfers. Closer in town, as you enter Puerto Viejo is Playa Negra, also called Black Beach, where the wave coming off of ‘The Barge’ is ideal for beginner surfers.

A BACKPACKER’S NIGHTLIFE The last stop-off before crossing over to the Panamanian border, Puerto Viejo is a haven for backpackers and short term travellers. Providing chill vibes and a good time, Puerto Viejo’s nightlife takes no day off. Every night is ladies night and each of the most popular bars marks itself with a different genre of music.

On Tuesdays it’s Tasty Waves with R&B, on Thursdays it’s pure reggae at The Lazy Mon, and on Sunday it’s Calypso night at Hot Rocks Bar & Restaurant. Throughout the rest of the week there are bars like Mango Sunset and Salsa Brava that play a mixture of pop, house and all the above.

PURA VIDA, MON! Despite its tourist bustle, Puerto Viejo still boasts an easy charm. The unique blend of Latino, Afro-Caribbean, indigenous Bribri, European and North Americans give this little beachside town a much different vibe than the rest of Costa Rica.

If ‘Pura Vida’ encapsulates the relaxed and friendly countenance of Costa Rica, then ‘Pura Vida, Mon’ would summarize the Puerto Viejo lifestyle . With the ‘Yeah, mon’ of Jamaican accents and roots rock reggae, Puerto Viejo puts a Caribbean spin on Costa Rica life.

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Photo Credit : Aeriel Photo: Aerial Shutter, Additional Photos: Alison Slattery

J

ust a short time ago, Puerto Viejo de Talamanca, (Puerto Viejo), on the Southeastern side of Costa Rica, remained relatively off the beaten tourist path. Just a few surfers roamed the small seaside town on their way to surf Salsa Brava—the legendary majestic wave.

BY ARIANA CLASHING O’REILLY

The distinct Caribbean influence perfuses the food, the music and the language. Just a couple of blocks off the main strip you may find yourself enjoying the riches of a spicy Caribbean stew among local families. Most notable is the Caribbean restaurant, Soda Lidia’s, which serves the region’s popular coconut rice and beans.

INTO THE JUNGLE Rainforest fruit and cacao farms lie nearby, offset by a symphony of singing birds and croaking frogs. Drawn to the lushness and consistent moisture of the rainforest, many Europeans find themselves setting up jungle hostels and permaculture farms.

Working alongside the horticultural way of life that the indigenous BriBri have enjoyed for centuries, the AfroCaribbean population has also successfully lived off the land.

The authenticity and freeness of this lifestyle is what brought those seeking a beachy, earthy existence to Puerto Viejo.

The warm and verdant rainforests surrounding Puerto Viejo is home to some of the coolest of Costa Rica’s mammalian wildlife. Howler monkeys are more likely to be your alarm clock than a neighbor’s rooster would be. Nor is it surprising to catch a smiling, slow moving sloth hanging from a tree outside your window or making its way across a telephone line.

EXPLORATION BY BIKE The best way to explore this beachside lush rainforest is to rent a beach cruiser for $10 a day and go explore the 8 miles between Puerto Viejo and the beautiful Playa Manzanillo.

With little convenience stores, rustic restaurants and cafes along the way, you will be fuelled up to enjoy the jaunt out to the wide open beaches south of Puerto Viejo.

The first stop is the Jaguar Rescue Center about 3km south of the Puerto Viejo main street. Hooked on baby monkey hugs and sloth cuddles, many a volunteer at the the rescue center have extended their 2-3 week long visits to 6 and 8 week sabbaticals.

Whether on your way to Bocas del Toro in Panama or just exploring the south Atlantic side of Costa Rica, come and chill out, party a little, and enjoy some delicious food. This is what Puerto Viejo is all about.

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What to Expect

WHAT TO EXPECT: Snorkeling, snacks, alcoholic and nonalcoholic drinks, and an amazing sunset.

WHAT TO WEAR: A swim suit, light breezy clothing that dries quickly, a hat, sunglasses and sunblock.

NECESSARY PHYSICAL CONDITION: Low. Once on the boat you can sit down, lie down and relax.

If you tend to get motion sickness, taking some seasickness medication may make the experience more pleasant.

Sunset

Cruises

by Ariana Clashing O’Reilly

I

f you are spending any time at all along the beaches of Costa Rica, a sunset cruise is one of the vacation staples that you will certainly want to enjoy. A half-day experience, the four-hour sunset cruises are typically taken on doublehulled catamaran boats. You go out on a relaxing cruise out to a secluded beach with great snorkel spots. There you can choose to go snorkelling, kayaking, or just sunbathing on the beach. Following your fun in the water, snacks or meals are served while you soak up the afternoon sun. Sailing back, brilliant oranges and pinks envelope the boat as the sun sets across the horizon.

Sunset cruises can either be a fun-filled party experience out on the waves or a relaxation afternoon out on the sea. Depending on if you are travelling with family or with friends, the choice between the two cruise experiences may differ.

Living in the technological age, differentiating between a party boat and relaxation cruiser is fairly simple.

First, check the tour company’s social media. If you see Instragram and Facebook selfies of twentysomethings with a plastic cup in their hands, this is more likely a party boat. Creating a club-like atmosphere, these cruises play a booming mixture of pop and reggaeton music and can pack about 35 to 50 persons on a twohulled catamaran.

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NECESSARY ATHLETIC ABILITY: All snorkelers and kayakers are given safety noodles and life jackets so you should be fine even if you’re not the strongest swimmer. A crew member will be in the water leading the snorkelers.

WHAT WILL HAPPEN: Short dinghy ride to the boat, boat briefing, sail to snorkelling spot, sunbathing, kayaking and/or stand-up paddling.

WHERE SUNSET CRUISES HAPPEN: Along the coastlines where you can visit secluded, hard-toaccess beaches.

Another major point of differentiation between party boats and relaxation cruisers is the quality of food and drinks offered.

Relaxation cruisers tend to offer plate service meals, a higher quality range of mixed drinks, and generally more space to enjoy these benefits. However, you may find yourself paying an additional $10-$15 for the extra lounging space and a more family-friendly atmosphere.

Regardless of what sunset cruise experience you choose to partake in, you are guaranteed a spectacular sunset, a friendly, welcoming crew, and a day out on the brilliant Costa Rican blue oceans. Tours can be found all along picturesque coastlines at most dock or marina towns. You can even find a catamaran tour on Lake Arenal. Along the Gold Coast of Costa Rica, Flamingo and Tamarindo are ideal places to arrange catamaran sailing cruises.

Happy Hour!

Happenings

by Howler Staff

ENTERTAINMENT

The play day is done. Time to break from the sun.

It’s Happy Hour!!

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So you’ve been out enjoying your vacation, eh? Soaking up the sun, hammocking, and enjoying the fantabulous array of activities this place offers? Excellent! By the time afternoon rolls around, it’s cocktail time!

Add in some appetizers prepared from amazing local ingredients, like fresh patacones and guacamole, yucca fries, or chicken wings (the size chicken wings are supposed to be), and somehow happy hour turns into dinner!

This tropical paradise takes happy hour to a whole new level. The vast array of delectable tropical fruits readily available here plus the limitless imaginations of our local mixologists will make for a happy hour experience you won’t soon forget. Mango margaritas and fresh fruit piña coladas are just the basics around here. You will easily find the choice difficult once you check out some of these happy hour menus. Warm ocean breezes combined with ice-cold tropical concoctions? Yes please! Isn’t that what vacation is all about?

And don’t forget you can create your own happy hour on the beach! Check out the tide chart for the sunset time, and get creative in the cups.

Surfside / Potrero MAXWELLS When: Dailly 4:00 - 6:00 pm What: Happy hour Double Down one National Beer, one Flavored Guaro shot 1.500Col Atmosphere: Tropical Garden Entertainment: Call for Schedule PERLAS When: Daily What: Food Appys and Drink Special Entertainment: Nightly live entertainment and don’t forget CHASE the ACE Friday nights EL CASTILLO When: Daily 3:30 pm - 5:00 pm What: Beer both bottled and Draft Atmosphere: Good food, good service and good prices with daily specials. Over 50 different types of beers Entertainment: Live music on Tuesdays and Karaoke on Saturday COSTA RICA SAILING CENTER When: Tuesday - Saturday 5:00 pm - 7:00 pm What: National Beers 1.000Col 2x1 Rum and cokes 2x1 Chiliguaro and 1.500Col House Wine Atmosphere: Beachside in Potrero, Enjoy the sand and surf take a sailboat out for a spin THE HOWLER MAGAZINE

Fresh local fruit cocktails, fresh local food, and a beachy pura vida vibe—this transcends the normal and mundane in every way. It doesn’t get any better than this, anywhere! If you drink alcohol at all, and even if you enjoy alcohol-free tropical beverages, you have got to check out some of these happy hours. If you don’t, you’ll definitely wish you had! Cheers!

Brasilito THE SPOT RESTAURANTS When: Daily 4:00 pm - 6:00 pm What: 2x1 on Select cocktails Atmosphere: Relaxing place just steps to the water Great view and great food PAPAYA RESTAURANT AT CONCHAL HOTEL When: Daily 3:00 pm - 6:00 pm (Close on Wed) What: 2X1 Select Cocktails and National Beers Entertainment: live music sab 6 martes

Huacas BAR DISCO LUNA LLENA When: Daily What: Sangria Atmosphere: Nice style locals bar get into the spirit with the locals. Beautiful place and friendly people

Playa Grande / Palm Beach BULA BULA When: Daily 4:00 pm - 6:00 pm What: $2 Domestic Beers and Wells $6 Jumbo Margaritas $4 Rocks Margaritas 1/2 Priced Bocas

SEVEN When: Daily 4:00 pm - 6:00 pm What: Buy a beer get a boca Atmosphere: A true Costa Rican style happy hour, the perfect cure for pre-sunset munchies PARK HOTEL When: Daily 3:00 pm - 10:00 pm What: 2X1 Margaritas Atmosphere: The longest happy hour on Playa Grande LAS TORTUGAS When: Daily 5:00 pm - 6:00 pm What: 2 Margaritas for $10 Atmosphere: The margaritas are as fresh as the open air restaurant RIP JACK INN When: Daily 4:00 pm - 6:00 pm What: Half Priced Drinks Atmosphere: Great Bocas and the best happy hour sunset view on Playa Grande SUGAR’S MONKEY When: Tuesday 4:00 pm - 6:00 pm What: 2X1 Cocktail Atmosphere: Chill tunes, chill vibe and hand tossed pizza after 5:00 pm

Tamarindo / Langosta LA OVEJA NEGRA When: All Day Every Day What: 2X1 Atmosphere: a Chill Out Place Entertainment: Live Music Saturday 7:00 pm-10:00 pm LATITUDE BLUE When: Daily 11:00 am -1:00 pm and 4:00 pm - 6:00 pm What: 2 X1 Specialty cocktails Atmosphere: Located on the beach with live music some days THE OCEAN When: Daily 11:00 am - 1:00 pm and 5:00 pm - 7:00 pm What: 2X1 Piña Colada-Coco Loco-MojitoCuba Libre-Margarita Atmosphere: Front beach Restaurant

MONKEY LA LA BAR / HOTEL PASATIEMPO When: Daily 4:00 pm - 6:00 pm What: Mojitos and Margaritas

EL COCONUT When: Monday - Friday 10:00 am - 6:00 pm What: $3 cocktails and $2 beers Entertainment: Live music on Fridays

LA PALAPA When: All day everyday What: Cocktails beers and Appys Atmosphere: Beach front Bar and Restaurant

LONGBOARDS When: Monday - Friday 4:00 pm - 7:00 pm What: $2 beers and food combo specials Entertainment: Live music on Wed, beers $2 daily combos appys during week days

WALTERS When: Daily 5:00 pm - 9:00 pm What: Beers Atmosphere: Beach front Bar and Restaurant EL CHIRINGUITO When: Daily 4:30 pm - 6:00 pm What: Beers and Cocktails Specials Atmosphere: Beach front restaurant bar live music Thursday to Saturday Entertainment: Live Music Thursday to Saturday SURF SHACK When: Monday - Wednesday and Friday 4:00 pm - 7:00 pm What: $3 cocktails and $2 beers Atmosphere: View of the beach from the bar Entertainment: Free French fries on Friday EL BE - TAMARINDO BEACH CLUB When: Monday - Friday 4:00 pm - 7:00 pm What: $4 cocktails and $2 beer Atmosphere: Located on The Beach Entertainment: Live music during the week and weekends PACIFICO BAR When: Monday - Friday 6:00 pm - 10:00 pm What: 2X1 Mojitos and Margaritas Entertainment: Mondays and Fridays Ladies Night, Wednesday DJ WALTERS FISH & CHEESE When: Monday - Friday 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm What: Free Appy Snacks Entertainment: Live music on Fridays, Mondays and sometimes during the week Imported Italian wine and beers in house Cheese Maker

BOKAS When: Monday - Friday 5:30 pm - 7:30 pm What: moscow mules plus appys of the day Atmosphere: French Costa Rica fusion, excellent bar, beers and moscow mules on special with appys during happy hr Entertainment: Live music on Fridays WILD PANDA When: All day everyday What: 2x1 Mojitos Atmosphere: Wild Panda also serves breakfast, lunch and dinner Closed mondays Entertainment: Live music on Fridays NOGUI’S When: Monday - Friday 4:30 pm - 5:30 pm What: Beers and Cocktails are 2 for 1 2 beers for $3 Entertainment: Beachfront restaurant watch the sunset during happy hour SHARKYS When: Monday - Friday 11:30 am - 7:00 pm What: $3 cocktails $2 beers Atmosphere: Fun hangout and sports bar Entertainment: Ladies night Saturday between 9 pm to midnite are free drinks for ladies Different drink specials daily DJs on weekends WITCHES ROCK VOLCANO BREWING When: Everyday 5:00 pm - 7:00 pm What: 1/2 price on House Brews and Select Cocktail menu Entertainment: Live music on Fridays

LANGOSTA BEACH CLUB When: Daily 4:00 pm - 6:00 pm What: 2x1 Beer and Select Cocktails Atmosphere: Front beach location

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65

Happenings

by Howler Staff

Robert August Surf & Turf Charity Event

Robert August Surf & Turf Charity Challenge Tamarindo, Playa Avellana & Hacienda Pinilla Guanacaste, Costa Rica

Are you a Golfer and / or a Surfer?

This amazing three day event, created by Robert August with a 4 man scramble golf tournament, surf competition, Brazilian carnival party and awards ceremony with take place April 21, 22 and 23. You can either gold or surf or participate in both. There will be awards for each tournament! Check out the Schedule of events!

Day 1, Friday April 21: 5 pm Registration Night with fun band @ El Vaquero Tamarindo

For more information, to become a SPONSOR or to reserve your SPACE, please Contact

KRISTINA ULLRICH: Cepia.SurfandTurf@gmail. com or call 8447-6900 REGISTRATION PRICES: • Golf only $160. Includes: golf cart, golf fee, lunch and golf goodie bag.

• Surf only $50. Includes: breakfast and competition fee.

• Registration prices for the overall contest, Golf and Surf is $250. This includes VIP goodie bag, golf and surf tournaments and entrance for Cala Luna dinner party.

Visit our Facebook page:

Day 2, Saturday, April 22: • 8 am: Golf Tournament, 4 man scramble, includes lunch @ Hacienda Pinilla • 6 pm: Brazilian Carnaval Dinner Party & Silent Auction @ Hotel Cala Luna, Tamarindo. $25 per sale, includes dinner & 1 cocktail Day 3, Sunday April 23: • 8 am: Adult 4 man team Surf Contest, Playa Avellana, includes breakfast @ Lola’s.

• 5 pm: Awards Ceremony & Silent Auction @ El Vaquero, Tamarindo

Robert August Surf & Turf event Note: If you don’t have 4 players on your team, don’t worry, we will match you with other players!

Donations: 100% of this event profits are donated to CEPIA, a Costa Rican based non-profit organization, which seeks to improve the quality of life of children and teenagers and their families from poor backgrounds in Costa Rica by promotion cultural develo pment, educational and market opportunities, physical and mental health, social cohesion and participation.

WHO’S ROBERT AUGUST?

The founder of the event, Robert August is a surfer and shaper fro Seal Beach California. He is known for Bruce Brown’s 1966 Documentary, “The Endless Summer”, as well as “The Endless Summer II, 1n 1994, where they visit Tamarindo, Costa Rica. This is where he currently shares his time with the States, shaping boards for Witch’s Rock Surf Camp, and being and active member of the Tamarindo community. Visit: www.robertaugust.com

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THE HOWLER MAGAZINE

Pennye Wheeler MANAGER +506 8369-1610 US +1 941-447 0008 pennye@overseas.de

Spotlight Fiery Flamenco Guitar

BY JOHNNY LAHOUD

T

ony and Johan dueling guitars is one of the newest buzz groups on the scene in Guanacaste. They can only be described as a classically trained new wave flamenco band that rocks the house without ever uttering a word. They definitely let the guitars do the talking. I have seen them at a wedding and as the headliner at Wilmart every Friday at 10 pm.

As stated, the band is called ¨Tony and Johan Dueling Guitars.¨ They hail from the Spanish Basque region and actually arrived in Costa Rica and on the local circuit 3 years ago. From the moment they get going, Tony hits radical original flamenco gypsy style licks that are backed by Johan´s smooth rhythm 68

THE HOWLER MAGAZINE

background beats. They come off as an acoustic fusion rock that leaves you mesmerized by the sheer speed and duration of Tony’s fiery finger picking.

Then they get together and start to bang out new versions of great cover song hits from old standbys like Metallica, Eagles and Skynard that put a new flamenco twist to these timeless classics. One thing is for sure: they keep the crowd engaged and moving to this unique style of guitaristas.

So if you’re looking for a fun local time that will guarantee to please and inspire awe, take a trip over to Grande at sunset some Friday and then head over to the Wilmart Jam Session for a local taste of what Grande has to offer.

Photo Credit: Bentley Fachner

HOROSCOPE This month’s major planetary changes involve Jupiter going into retrograde motion on the 6th and staying that way for 4 months.

Jupiter’s retrograde period in the sign of Libra generally means one must review behaviors regarding relationships. Venus and Mars

ARIES

With your ruling planet, Mars, in Taurus until the 20th, you should be able to establish a more solid direction in your life and accomplish your goals. Make an effort to get along with people and stop being so easily angered as it will harm your reputation. You can sometimes be your own worst enemy with that temper of yours. Don’t sign any contracts after the 9th and wait until the middle of May for any major commitments. Your best days for gains are the 24th and 25th.

TAURUS

Your planetary ruler, Venus, will be in retrograde motion until the 15th, turning direct at 26 degrees of Pisces, its sign of exaltation. The last 2 weeks of April will be very productive and a potentially lucrative period as you will be really in the flow of positive things. The power of attraction is working for you at that time so make good choices. Be careful about signing any contracts or firm commitments until after Mercury goes direct on May 3rd. Your power days are the 26th and 27th.

GEMINI

With both the creative and the friends, hopes and wishes parts of your chart very active this month you would be wise to accept all social invitations and make yourself known. Your ruling planet, Mercury, does its retrograde dance from April 9th through May 3rd so there’s potential for misunderstandings and weird communication snafus. Plus, heed the Mercury Rx dictum of “don’t sign and don’t buy”, contracts and big ticket items anyway for the retrograde period. Stay positive and promote yourself on the 1st, 28th and 29th.

CANCER

The career and public image parts of your chart get a big boost of energy this month which should give you more opportunities to make an impact or expand your business. You might also consider moving to a new location over the next couple of months. Be open as some interesting offer will start you thinking about it. Don’t sign any contracts until the middle of May, even if you feel pressured.

Remember, you need to feel very secure about all the details to be happy. Enjoy life on the 2nd, 3rd, daylight hours of the 4th and 30th.

LEO

You are getting lots of attention regarding your professional life and business right now. If you have any opportunity to get your face in front of the public in the next 2 months, this is time to do it. Be careful what you say, however, as the Mercury Rx from the 9th through early May could garble your message. Still, this is a time for positive gains and self promotion. The 5th and 6th hold lots of promise for you.

VIRGO

With the North Node leaving your sign this month, you will start to feel less obsessed about achievement, money and status. Things start to look up in the last 2 weeks of the month as Venus going direct brings benefits to you and your partner. Take some time off as your business will really take off in May. With your ruler, Mercury, going retrograde from April 9th through May 3rd, you will have lots to think about for future plans. Your best days are the 7th and 8th.

APRIL 2017 FORECASTS

By JEANNE CALLAHAN

will be traveling through Aries together all month and visible in the evening sky after sunset. Saturn will be transiting over the Galactic Center in Sagittarius this month as well. Talk to your astrologer if you want to know what that means for you personally.

LIBRA

With your ruling planet, Venus, currently in retrograde motion until April 15th, you are still working behind the scenes and scrambling to get your money and work life untangled. Communications could be dicey after the 9th so confirm everything and back up your computer files. The full moon on the 10th is in your sign and cozying up to Jupiter which signifies a positive turning point. Do something nice for yourself on the 9th and 10th.

SCORPIO

The last half of the month can really boost your creative output and bring you a great deal of satisfaction. The recognition for it will come later. Be satisfied that you have such vision, depth and perception. Partnerships demand your time and attention so plan for that in your life this month, especially after the 15th. You will also need to be frugal for the next 5 months but you can enjoy life on the evening of the 11th, 12th and 13th.

SAGITTARIUS

With Saturn going into its retrograde motion phase from April 6th through August 25th, you are going to revise or revisit something in your life. Saturn doles out lessons as it passes through a sign and he’s not through with you yet! You need focus and inspiration to stay positive and since you hate to be bored take up some kind of study or physical discipline to engage your mind and body. What are you waiting for—do it! Best days for you are the 14th, 15th and 1st half of the 16th.

CAPRICORN

Pluto in your sign will go into its retrograde motion phase from April 20th through September 27th. It’s a slow mover that one, so the transformational transit of Pluto in Capricorn continues to dredge up old patterns, old friends and possibly old enemies as well. Be upfront and honest and don’t compromise your integrity as you will be tested. Your power days are the 17th and 18th.

AQUARIUS

Communications, siblings and neighbors take up a lot of your focus this month and a situation that has been stagnant for a long time could get the breakthrough after the full moon on the 10th. With that energy freed up you might consider getting involved with some humanitarian group or contribute to your community in some way.

Best days to expand your horizons are the 19th, 20th and 21st.

PISCES

Venus dips back into your sign this month which should bring some interesting pleasures with it. Take a trip to some exotic beach destination or go on a cruise! Whatever comes your way, just enjoy it and don’t look back. Work will be demanding your attention as well and something from the past will need some revision. But that’s life for you. Enjoy everything on the 22nd and 23rd.

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THE HOWLER BOOKSHELF

The Surf Lesson “PADDLE! UP!” I hear her voice above the roar of the surf at high tide. I obediently comply. Lying flat on my belly, I make a couple of splashy strokes before planting my palms next to my chest as instructed and hoisting my body up onto my toes. From there I see myself deftly jumping into position with my left foot between my palms and my right foot the desired couple of feet behind the left one, both feet perfectly balanced across the middle of the board. I then immediately stand up and enjoy the ride to shore.

At least, that’s how it happens in my head.

In truth, yeah I get my hands planted where they belong, and yeah I manage to push myself up onto my toes. That’s when things stopped going right.

My left knee somehow got in the way then I tried to stand up on my right foot anyway and just ended up face first in the water next to my board. The wave was breaking so I got rolled under it and had to hang out under there for a sec and hope my board didn’t change my hairline with either a fin or a wicked rail that somehow had suddenly become a 9-foot-long sword and mallet at the same time. I surface, coughing only a little, with my long hair barely blocking my airways.

“Come on! Hop on that board and paddle back out here! Like a surfer!” hollers Maria, my surf instructor del día.

I nod, only slightly out of breath, wipe my nose and mouth, then push the board toward the open sea and hop belly-down on top of it, focusing on making long, strong arm strokes.

“You almost had that one!”

Bullsh*t, I say to myself, though I appreciate her encouragement.

“Thanks!”

“Come on! Here comes another one. Get ready!” She helps me spin around to face shore. “Ok PADDLE! UP!” Five or so splashy strokes later I feel elevated at the foot and I know it’s time. I plant my palms and push myself to my toes. I jump to plant my feet near my hands on the board. I stand up and just as I’m becoming vertical I see that my feet are both left of center. I try to compensate by pushing my weight on my toes as I rise. The taller I stand, the more I push my weight to the right. And… in I go, face first. The wave breaks just above where I’ve just fallen, pushing me more deeply under water and corkscrewing me, rolling me on all axes at once like an Olympic diver or gymnast. (Yeah—just like that). Water gushes into my nose and somehow down my throat, though I swore I kept my mouth closed. I’m not exactly sure which way is up

Marcet Araya

and I have no idea where my board is, but I know I have to just be patient and keep holding my breath, letting the surf toss me around as it likes, until the wave’s energy passes. I become vaguely aware that my bikini bottoms are somewhere near my knees, and my top somehow got twisted showing both girls the full light of day. Damn it!

Maria is looking at me as I surface tugging at my clothes. She’s smiling and giving me two thumbs up. Bless her soul right now I swear. There isn’t an idiom that applies to clumsiness when surfing. “Two left feet” works great for not being able to dance worth a darn; “all thumbs” works for not being able to use your fingers agilely; but for surfing? Maybe “all hands” would work here, since on your hands is where you do not want to be. Or maybe “all faces”. Well whatever that idiom would be, to express clumsiness in surfing, that’s how I’m feeling right about now. All that.

“Hey that one was a lot better! You got both feet almost into position! Great work!”

I could kiss her. I know that I’m paying her to tell me good things and be supportive, and at the same time as that registers in one part of my brain, in my heart she’s made me smile. “Thanks!” I said, and I meant it.

The painful-to-watch process repeats itself several more times with various outcomes, none of which has me landing both of my feet in the exact right position to enable me to easily balance on the board and ride it to shore, and most of which bring me to the surface coughing and snotty, with stinging eyes and water in my sinuses.

Not today.

Maria doesn’t realize how my aging womanly muscles don’t behave like most people’s. She persists, and I love the warm ocean pushing me around out there, but I can’t take it anymore. My muscles are tired and up against an opponent that refuses to meet you at your level, such as merciless Neptune, you need to know when to stop. Scores of trips around the sun may take their toll on your muscle strength, but what you lose in brawn, you gain in your head. I’ve had enough for today.

I catch a wave into shore on my belly, feeling thoroughly spent and stoked, grinning ear-to-ear. At my age, I’m super happy to be out in the water instead of on the shore watching, and I’m thrilled that I have at least the agility to get out in those wicked waves and give it a halfway decent shot. Maybe I didn’t stand up on the board today, which I understand to be the entire point in surfing, but I sure had fun trying to harness the waves. And if I don’t stand up next time that’s okay too. I’m in no rush—I got nothin’ but time to fill. And if learning is this fun, I’m all in.

Welcome to The Howler bookshelf! If you come to know of books we may be interested in publicizing, or if you write creatively and would like The Howler to consider your work for publication, please email: editor@howlermag.com.

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DINING GUIDE

GET TO

KNOW A

Featured Restaurant

RESTAURANT BEFORE YOU GO

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71

Paul German - Photographer

by Marcet Araya

family artistry at

B

elieve it or not, in the heart of Playa Flamingo you can indulge in a truly world-class dining experience in the Flamingo plaza at Angelina’s. Brother chefs Joseph and Justin Mucaria, sons of certified executive chef and culinary arts professor Joseph Sr., bring their utmost respect for “the product and process” instilled by their father and reinforced through their lifetimes in the kitchen.

Angelina’s, named after the brothers’ beloved grandmother who passed down her love of cooking, opened their doors in October of 2008. Their passion about the food they prepare for your delight is clearly understood when you see the dedication to their art.

The brothers spend an incredible amount of time planning and preparing.

They source much of their own product, including fresh meats and seafood, while crafting homemade sausages, desserts and ice creams from high quality, minimal ingredients. They use the freshest and finest ingredients available and, whenever possible, they serve farm-to-table, eliminating the middleman and ensuring product freshness and quality direct from the grower. The brothers’ attention to detail is clearly visible with every

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THE HOWLER MAGAZINE

dish. They offer an array of savory and delightful choices-even the freshly baked artisan pizza is world class, its aroma awakening your senses and stimulating your palate as you approach Angelina’s.

Focusing on in-house, dry aged beef, their menu boasts a variety of cuts of the finest meats, aged with the use of Himalayan pink salt blocks and prepared on site to culinary perfection. Their own dry meat aging produces sublime melt-in-your-mouth eating experiences that rank these dishes among the world’s finest.

The dining experience crosses into the divine at Angelina’s, surrounded by natural petrified trees and local Guanacaste artwork. The seamlessly presented meal, complete with top notch service, fine wines, delightful atmosphere and all around impressive culinary creations, is why it’s well worth regular trips from near and far.

Nearly eight years strong, the Mucaria brothers are continuing to step up the measure of excellence at Angelina’s, regularly offering new menu items and a caliber of fine dining paralleling the finest restaurants of the world’s greatest cities.

Angelina’s is easily among the most outstanding meals you can enjoy in Costa Rica.

DINING GUIDE

Hours of Operations 5 pm - 10 pm open 7 days a week Phone: 2654-4839 Specialties Dry aged beef Sustainable seafood Artisan pizza

Angelina's: Fine Dining Affectionately named after owners Joseph and Justin Mucaria's beloved grandmother. Angelina's captures the essence of the love of family and fine dining. Located on the second floor of "La Plaza" commercial center in the heart of Playa Flamingo.

Angelina's specializes in Himilayan Salt Aged Beef, Sustainable fish and seafood, and hearth stone artisan pizza. To make reservations or see our full menu visit our website at www.angelinasplayaflamingo.com.

MENU SELECTIONS Pulpo

Guiseppe Pizza

House Buratta

30-Day Dry Aged Ribeye

Goat Cheese Ravioli

Brodetto Italian Seafood Stew

Grilled octopus, smokey eggplant, sweet potato, harissa

Cherry tomato confit, aged balsamic, grilled baguette

Almond basil pesto, spring vegetables, oyster mushrooms, aged pecorino

House sausage, roasted peppers, mushrooms, caramelized onion, sesame crust

Camote hash, arugula, house demi glaze

Lobster, shrimp, clams, mussels, octopus and sea bass in a lobster tomato broth

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73

PLAVA FLAMINGO

Commercial center "La Plaza" Playa Flamingo

TAMARINDO-LANGOSTA

DINING GUIDE

El Barco - Restaurant del Capitán Suizo: Beachfront Restaurant

Hotel Capitán Suizo, Main Road to Langosta Hours of Operations Everyday 12:00 am - 10:00 pm Phone: 2653-0075 concierge@hotelcapitansuizo.com Specialties Every Friday Gourmet Nights Live Entertainment 4 course meal includes: welcome drink and coffee

In front of Sharky's Sport Bar Hours of Operations 11:00 am - 10:00 pm Phone: 8996-9990 Specialties Local fresh fish and seafood, native indigenous inspiration

MENU SELECTIONS Superfood (lunch)

$16.00

Tuna Tartar

$15.00

Shrimp Tacos (lunch)

$15.00

Caldereta de Mariscos

$21.00

Arroz Tradicional (lunch)

$14.00

Lomito

$29.00

Chickpea salad - feta, rosemary & thyme, avocado, grilled chilies, sprouts & chia

Octopus, calamari, mussels & shrimp stew in a tomato & thyme sauce with rice

Rice with chicken - black bean purée, sweet plantain, fried yucca & cabbage salad

Sapoa Cuisine

Local, Native, Costa Rican

With personal creativity, and an emphasis on native, local, and seasonal ingredients, our repertoire includes a generous variety of authentic recipes.

White fish Tiradito

Roasted sunflower seeds and spices, with shaved yucca

Flamed Jumbo shrimp

Roasted stuffed pineapple, veggies and plantain purée

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Beef tenderloin with a ginger and tamarind gravy served with Rösti and vegetables

Pura Vegan

Second floor of Plaza Tamarindo

Vegan

Serving 100% vegan cuisine that's sure to satisfy. Inspired by our chef's homeland of Thailand.

MENU SELECTIONS

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Tuna tartar with capers & mango with a cilantro, ginger & soya vinaigrette

Served with coleslaw, pineapple & basil pico de gallo, guacamole and tartar sauce

Mon & Wed Marimba music at dinner

TAMARINDO

Our objective is to provide fresh, healthy and balanced dishes, which showcase the flavors of Costa Rica with a European twist in a peaceful atmosphere.Our beachfront restaurant offers an oasis with impeccable and friendly service. Come relax and enjoy your experience with fantastic food and drinks.

Hours of Operations: Monday to Saturday 10:30 am - 8:30 pm Closed Sunday hello@puravegancr.com

MENU SELECTIONS $9 $22

Thai Red Curry

c4,300

Pad Thai

c4,300

Coconut milk & mixed veggies, served with coconut rice

Rice noodles, veggies, tofu, tamarind sauce

DINING GUIDE

Hours of Operations 4:30 pm - 11:00 pm Phone: 8416-1010 Specialties Fish & Seafood Exotic vegetables & fruits Fine dining experience

HiR Fine Dining:

Discovery Menus

4 days a week international chefs like Michelin star Quentin Villers create discovery menus HiR. Every dinner has 6 to 10 plates. 8 guests per dinner

Off the Tamarindo Circle

The Surf Shack

Hours of Operations 11: 00 am - 8:30 pm Thursdays Closed

Burgers, Wings and Fries

No Hurries, No Worries, No Rice and Beans!! Burgers, Wings, Fries and Milkshakes (The Best In Town)

MENU SELECTIONS

Phone: 2653-2346 Specialties Burgers, wings and milkshakes

MENU SELECTIONS

7 Plates Fish Menu

$75

Blue Ribbon Blue Cheese Burger

c4,300

Michelin Star Chef

$75

Boneless Wings (8 Pieces)

c3,800

Raw and cooked fish in the jungle of Costa Rica

6 Plates menu with meat, fish or vegetarian

TAMARINDO

Tamarindo / Pinilla

Blue cheese, bacon, sauteed onions and garlic

Sauces include mild, medium, hot, mango or honey BBQ

Get your Restaurant in the

Clear & Simple Information

clients want

to know when deciding where to

eat

50m NW from Gollo store Hours of Operations Mon - Sat 8:00 am to 9:30 pm Phone: 702-4054 Specialties Arepas Reina Pepiada, Llanera, empanada, tequeĂąo, burrito, DoublePlay hamburger

La ReinaPepiada

Areperia, fast-food

Venezuelan arepas, empanadas, tequeĂąos.. also the best hamburgers and burritos in town. We also have pabellon, chifrijo and vegetarian plates

MENU SELECTIONS Pernil Arepa

c2.800

Pabellon

c4.200

GlutenFree maize arepa filled with porc, fresh tomato

4701-5942

ads@howlermag.com

Shredded beef, rice, beans, platain and avocado Read online, like and share

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75

VILLARREAL

DINING GUIDE

PALM BEACH

DINING GUIDE

Palm Beach - Next to the estuary Hours of Operations Breakfast: 7:30 am - 11:00 am Lunch: 11:00 am - 3:00 pm Dinner: 5:30 am - 9:00 pm Phone: 2653-0975 Email: frontdesk@hotelbulabula.com Specialties Daily: Sunset Happy Hour 4:00 am - 6:00 pm Monday: Mexican All you care to eat Buffet 5:30 am - 8:30 pm

The Great Waltini's - Bula Bula: American Fusion Cuisine Enjoy casual fine dining and experience “A fusion of the Americas” in a tranquil and inviting setting. At the Great Waltini’s, you can enjoy a sumptuous meal in an attractive dining area or choose to sit under the stars and enjoy your meal on the garden patio.

Choose from house-aged steaks, seafood dishes, and down home fare. Top with cocktails and desserts—the complete experience.

Located in beautiful Palm Beach Estates next to the estuary. Easily accessible from Tamarindo via a boat taxi (complimentary with dinner purchase). Pick up time 5:00 pm 5:30 pm 6:00 pm. Please call before 2:00 pm to reserve boat taxi.

Happy Hour – includes domestic beers, well drinks, Giant famous Bula margaritas and appetizer specials.

MENU SELECTIONS Ahi Tuna

Annie's Salad

Double Cut Pork Chop

Hand Carved Turkey

Blackened Shrimp Salad

Aged Filet Mignon

Mahi-Mahi

Baked Lasagna

St. Louis Style Pork Ribs

Mixed Seafood Combo

Aged New York Steak

Mango Duckling

8oz filet prepared tropical, blackened, sautéed or fried Oven roasted turkey, mashed potatoes, cranberry sauce and house made gravy 8oz filet prepared tropical, blackened, sautéed or fried Tuna, mahi mahi, jumbo shrimp, calamari, & mussels in a white wine saffron sauce

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Blackened chicken breast with avocado over crisp greens and fresh vegetables Blackened jumbo shrimp, sliced avocado over fresh lettuce and fresh vegetables Italian sausage, beef & pork, tomato, ricotta, mozzarella and romano cheese 10oz cut prepared charbroiled, blackened or au poivre in brandy cream sauce

10oz cut prepared charbroiled, blackened or au Poivre in brandy cream sauce 10oz cut prepared charbroiled, blackened or au poivre in brandy cream sauce Baked until tender and served with our famous Bula Bula BBQ sauce Crispy half duckling with a spicy mango glaze and house made tropical chutney

DINING GUIDE

Outside dining under a Costa Rican Rancho. Specializing in Argentine Barbecue: Fresh seafood and the highest quality meat: beef and chicken. A true barbecue feast!

Also offering pastas, pizza and salads. Come on Friday night to enjoy great music and drinks with friends. Free boat rides to and from Tamarindo throughout the night!

200 meters West of Bula Bula next to Wil-Mart palm beach Hours of Operations Daily 8:00 am - 9:00 pm Phone: 2653-0236

MENU SELECTIONS BBQ Platters

Ceviche Frsh Special

Casado: Beef, Fish, Chicken or Pork

Hamburger and Fries

Grilled Chicken Breast

Pizza Made Fresh to Order

Beef tenderloin, Surf & Turf Ribs or Mahi Mahi With amazing sides

Served Tico Style

Chicken Breast in Amazing Mushroom sauce and great sides

Specialties Sunday night BBQ $10 Platters

Black Oyster, Fish or Shrimp

Homemade Fresh Burgers

Homemade fresh ingredients

Our emphasis is placed on simple, fresh ingredients & Italian cooking methods. Fresh pastas & our famous Ravioli are made in-house daily. All meals are complemented by a selection of hand-made breads baked according to traditional methods. Dinner menu: antipasti, salads, pastas, seafood, beef and a wide variety of desserts.

Main Road to Playa Grande Intersection Cabo Velas Street

Phone: 2653-2315

MENU SELECTIONS c2500

Fresh Tuna Tartare

c5500

Bread topped with fresh tomato garlic, basil & black olives

Tuna tartare marinated with soy sauce, olive oil & avocado

Spinach & Ricotta Ravioli c6000 Choice of sauce: tomato, pink or butter & sage

Hours of Operations Open Monday - Saturday 5:00 am - 10:00 pm

Pesto Tagliatelle/Spagetti c5800 Homemade basil sauce with nuts

Grilled Salmon

c8500

Tenderloin Gorgonzola

c9000

Specialty Homemade Pastas *Also Gluten Free Pastas

Grilled to perfection with lemon & herb butter sauce

Cooked to order topped with a rich gorgonzola sauce

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PLAYA GRANDE

Cafe del Pueblo: Restaurant & Pizzeria: Traditional Italian cuisine!!!

Bruschetta

PALM BEACH

Seven Cave Bar and Grill: Barbeque, Pizza and Costa Rican Seafood

26

MATAPALO

DINING GUIDE

5

3-

65

11

M ATAPALO

Main Square Hours of Operations 12:00 pm - 2:00 am Phone: 2653-6511 Specialties Karaoke - Friday, Saturday & Sunday (Drink Specials) Happy Hour Daily 12 pm- 6 pm

Charlie’s Bar: Tico Tico Sports Bar and Restaurant Classic Tico Restaurant and Sports Bar! Do you want to experience the “Real” Costa Rica nightlife?…Vamos a Charlies!!! Ice cold beer, chiliguaro, and great Costa Rican cuisine! All weekend long both Ticos and Gringos are celebrating life!

MENU SELECTIONS Beef or Chicken Tacos

c2000

Garlic Fish Filet

c4500

Ceviches c2500

Buffalo or BBQ Wings

c4800

Nachos c3500

Mixed Tico Appetizer Plate c9500

Fresh Tacos with all the goods

Fresh homemade with the best fish

Your chioce of sauces and dips

A Great Mix of Appetizers to share

BRASILITO

Best Beef, Chicken or Vegetarian

Fresh fish served tico style casado

180 Brasilito, Guanacaste, Costa Rica Conveniently located on the main corner in Brasilito Hours of Operations Daily 8:00 am - 10:00 pm Phone: 2654-9028 Specialties Sunday Brunch 9:00 am -1:00 pm

Tiki’s Seaside Grille: International Cuisine Tikis Seaside Grille is beautiful location with a spectacular ocean and sunset views.

The perfect place to enjoy fresh-made foods from breakfast to dinner. We feature 12 local beers on tap.

MENU SELECTIONS Cacique Mussels

c4000

Tiki Burger

c7000

Avocado Shrimp Salad

c6500

Churrasco Steak

c9500

Cuban Sandwich

c6000

Pargo

c9800

Sautéed with Cacique liquor, garlic and parsley

Tossed with veggies. Served with toasted garlic bread

Braised pork mustard, Swiss cheese, pickles, and ham

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Topped with Swiss cheese, mushrooms & onions

Delmonico cut, rosemary potatoes & grilled vegetable skewer

Whole snapper garlic sauce or rice sautéed vegetables

DINING GUIDE

The Beach House Private residence on the beach transformed into a quaint restaurant and bar, renowned for its fresh seafood. Come and enjoy incredible food and awesome sunsets and views of the Pacific Ocean.

Hours of Operations 11:00 am - 9:00 pm Phone: 2654-6203 Specialties Fresh seafood, Epic sunset view

MENU SELECTIONS Grilled Scallops

c5000

Onion Rings

c3500

Catch of the Day

c9000

Jambalaya

c7500

Angus Tenderloin

c11000

Pesto Tuna Sandwich

c7000

Grilled in a bath of cacique liquor, lime and garlic

Tropical salsa, grilled vegetables & potatoes or rice

Grilled to perfection with vegetables & rosemary potatoes

Thick cut battered with a subtle blend of spices, served with garlic mayo and rosada sauce

Sausage, shrimp & chicken-onions, tomatoes & peppers in Cajun sauce over rice or linguini

Pesto seared tuna on fresh bread served with lettuce, tomato & pesto aioli

Located in a beautiful garden setting, great pool table for the adults, and lots of room to run around for the kids. Cater to all eaters, veggies, kids, meat eaters, and even non eaters. We are now open for Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner, until 8 pm, daily.

Phone: 2654-4319

MENU SELECTIONS c6500

Vegi's Gone Wild

c5500

Bacon, cheese, grilled onions and homemade chile verde sauce

Specialty salads will amaze you

Homemade Sausage Sandwich c5000 Made with real maple syrup

Hand Cut Fries

c2000

Appetizers

c Vary

Traditional Mexican Food

c Vary

The best fresh hand-cut fries

A great selection of Items to pick

Taco, burritos, enchiladas, salads

Hours of Operations 7:00 am to 8:00 pm

Specialties Breakfast, Burgers and Beer

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SURFSIDE POTRERO

420 Aveinda Tres, Surfside Estates, Playa Potrero, Costa Rica

Maxwell’s: California Cuisine

Ultimate Burger

SURFSIDE POTRERO

800 M Norte Banco Nacional Potrero

SURFSIDE POTRERO

DINING GUIDE

Hwy 911 Just East of Bahia del Sol Hours of Operations 12:00 pm - 10:00 pm Phone: 4702-8689 Specialties Vegan and gluten-free

Numu: International Cuisine Numu’s pool side restaurant is a wonderful modern setting that has an eclectic fusion of international cuisines like pad thai, sushi and red curry. Also offering of selection of vegan and gluten-free alternatives. Numu’s uses as many locally sourced ingredients as possible for the richest flavorful dishes.

MENU SELECTIONS Pad Thai

c4000

Numu Angus Burger

Numu Roll

c4500

Grilled Tenderloin

Kung Poa Chicken

c5000

Seabass

Noodles, sauce, red pepper, green beans, red onion, & bean sprouts

Salmon, mango, avocado, cucumber, spicy mayo, unagi sauce

SURFSIDE POTRERO

Stir-fried with vegetables, peanuts and chilli peppers over jasmine rice

HWY 911 (Main Road) intersection Avenida Tres Hours of Operations Daily 7:00 am - 12:00 am Phone: 2654-4500

c9800

Pink peppercorn sauce, capers, choice of two sides

The premier sports and entertainment bar in Potrero: dartboards, free pool table & more. A complete menu from local fare, tasty pub food and amazing seafood. Food and drink specials every night. Light menu after 11 pm. Friday night - Chase the Ace raffle for Charities

MENU SELECTIONS Eggs Benedict

Served with bacon and hash browns

c4000

Perla’s Double Cheeseburger c7500

Fajita Lava Bowl - beef or chicken c8000 Peppers, onions, mushrooms & cheese in lava bowl

Two beef patty, cheddar, onions, lettuce, tomato

Blackened Tuna Steak

c8000

Beef, Fish or Pork Casado

Tenderloin Steak Dinner

c9000

c4800

Served with rice, beans, salad & plantain

THE HOWLER MAGAZINE

c10000

8oz chargrilled tenderloin, chimichurri sauce on the side, choice of two sides

Perlas: Sports and Entertainment Restaurant & Bar

Specialties Live bands, DJs or Karaoke

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c4500

Premium Angus ground, lettuce, tomato, onion, pickles, fresh cut fries

Served with Perlas’s special potatoes & veggies

8 OZ choice beef, grilled onions, peppers & potatoes

RESTAURANT DIRECTORY

Fine Dining

Commercial center "La Plaza" 5 pm - 10 pm open 7 days a week 2654-4839

The Great Waltini's

Vegan

Best Restaurant in the Jungle

Vegan Delights

Local Fresh Cuisine Local fresh fish and seafood, native indigenous inspiration

Beachfront Restaurant

Follow Signs M - Sun Break, Lunch, Dinner 2653-0975 frontdesk@hotelbulabula.com

TAMARINDO

Sapoa Cuisine El Barco

Great Restaurant Bar, Happy Hours and Specials

Second floor Plaza Tamarindo 10:30 am to 8:30 pm N/A hello@puravegancr.com

Across from Sharky's From 11AM to 10 pm daily 8996-9990

Fresh healthy cuisine with a European twist

Seven Cave Bar & Grill Mixed Cuisine

BBQ, Pizza and Costa Rican Seafood 200 W of Bula Bula 8am to 9 pm 2653-0236

More than exquisite meals Discover Pura Vida Flavours Across for Witch's Rock Tues - Sunday 2653-0086 katharina.elcoconut@gmail.com

La Reina Pepiada

Venezuelan Comfort Food Hidden treasure of the most traditional Venezuelan foods 50 mts N/O de Gollo Store 11:30 am to 8:00 pm 4702-4054 adreinapepiada@gmail.com

Playa Grande next to Wil-Mart Tue-Sun 11-3 and 5-9 Fri Late 8577-4054 smdrm23@gmail.com

MATAPALO

Tamarindo / Pinilla 4:30 to 11:00 pm 84161010

Off Tamarindo Circle 11am to 8 pm Closed Thurs 2653-2346

3-

5

International chefs, Michelin star Quentin Villers 8 guests per dinner

Fresh, fast and delicious, Open late Friday for live music at Wil-Mart

Surf Shack Burgers and Wings family friendly at reasonable prices

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Specialty Experience

Fresh, Hot and Alot

Burgers and Wings

VILLARREAL

HiR Fine Dining

TAMARINDO

Pura Vida Flavours

Mordo's Fish and Chips

Surf Shack

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M ATAPALO

Charlies Bar

Tico Sports Bar Restaurant Bar food and typical specialties Matapalo Main Square Noon to Midnight 2653-6511

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PLAYA GRANDE

Main Road to Langosta Everyday 12:00 am 10:00 pm 2653-0073 concierge@hotelcapitansuizo.com

EL Coconut

PALM BEACH

Dry aged beef Sustainable seafood Artisan pizza

PLAVA FLAMINGO

Angelina's

Pura Vegan

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RESTAURANT DIRECTORY

CONTRIBUTOR

HUACUS

Marcet Araya. BA English Lit, UC Berkeley.

Former writing instructor. marcet.araya@gmail.com.

BEACH HOUSE

TEXAS BBQ

Fresh Seafood

BBQ

Best Sunset Cocktails and Beach Food

Brisket, Ribs and all the Fixins

Road to Surfside 11am to 9 pm 2654-6203

At BW Hotel Huacas Daily 2653-6818

THE SPOT Beachfront

Breakfast Lunch Tapas and Dinner Brasilito Beach side 7am to 10 pm Closed Mon 2654-5463 thespotbrasalito@gmail.com

Maxwell's

SURFSIDE POTRERO

BRASILITO

International Cuisine

Main Corner Brasilito 8am to 10 pm 2654-9028

Breakfast, Burgers and Beer Lovely jungle garden with an occasional musician playing 420 Av Tres 7am to 8 pm 2654-4319

NUMU Eclectic fusion International cuisines pad thai, sushi and red curry.

4701 5942 / ads@howlermag.com

Help us better serve you!

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THE HOWLER MAGAZINE

Jesse Bishop. Long-term Guanacaste resident.

Mary Byerly. HIghly certified yoga instructor. Guiding others to live vibrantly, creating positive change one person at a time. panaceacr@gmail.com

Gilberth Cavallini. Veterinary Doctor, owner Cavallini Veterinary Services, Villarreal (MegaSuper Plaza) tamarindovet@gmail.com Anne-Marie Fischer. Canadian freelance writer and owner of The Drifter’s Ink Tattoo in Tamarindo annemarieefischer@gmail.com Ivan Granados. Managing Partner at GM Attorneys. He specializes in real estate and corporate law. igranados@gmattorneyscr.com Johnny Lahoud. Owner/broker of Pura Vida Realty, Playa Grande. He loves Costa Rica a lot. pvrealty@gmail.com

International Cuisine

DIRECTORY

Gregory Basco. Award-winning professional nature photographer and environmentalist. www.deepgreenphotography.com, www.fotoverdetours.com

Jeanne Callahan. Astrologer. Aware, smart, funny and interested in everything under the Sun! jeanne@celestialadvisor.com. www.celestialadvisor.com

Tikis Seaside Grill International Cuisine / Sunday Brunch / 12 local Beer on tap

Robert August. Surfer. Long-term Guanacaste resident. Local celeb.

East of Bahia del Sol 12:00 pm - 10:00 pm 4702-8689

Sylvia Monge. Owner of Spanish for Expats, a tutoring and translation service. spanishfhorexpats23@gmail.com.

Ariana Clashing O’Reilly. Local writer.

Serena Nava. 14-year old competitive surfer with her eyes on the prize. Her father’s email: jetty-rat@hotmail.com Tom Peifer. Ecological land use consultant with 20 years experience in Guanacaste.

2658-8018. tompeiferecv@gmail.com

Sports and Entertainment

Susan R. Smith. Student of Zen Master Venerable Thich Naht Hanh. Co-founder of Pura Vida Sangha: Sundays 10:20a.m., Rip Jack Inn yoga studio, Playa Grande. meditationcostarica@gmail.com

Sports, Entertainment Restaurant and Bar

Ryan Waldron. BS Atmospheric Science, surfer. ryan@witchsrock.com

Perlas

Hwy 911 Main Road Av, Tres 7am to Midnight 2654-4500

Herbert Weinman, MD, MBA. Herbert M. Weinman, MD, MBA. thedoctorisinsharkfm@gmail.com

Open Daily 7am to 9pm

Located between Matapalo & Playa Grande Phone: 2249-0387, Email: wesone2020@yahoo.com

Open Daily 7am to 9pm

Expanded Friday Night Jams

Wilstock 2017 April 14

Noon to after Midnight

Rock-n-Roll

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The Leatherbacks, Glasseye, J. Murray, Somoke Haze and the Asteroids, Foam, & Band X

Bring your tent Camping available onsite

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