Costa Rica Howler INTERNATIONAL Magazine - June 2021

JUNE 2021

IN T E R NA TI O N A L Co s ta Rica T O T H E WORLD

since 1996

• • • • • • • •

Museums of Costa Rica El Farallón Petroglyphs Wheels to the World Dangerous Duo Osa: Getaway to Paradise Buying Real Estate in Costa Rica Bonjour les Francophones!

Global Wellness Day h o w l e r m a g . c o m

DIGITAL mags

EDITORIAL

THE LOUDEST VOICE IS REACHING THE WORLD

M

ay 2021, our 25th anniversary month, was record-breaking for views and interactions with Howler readers as well as our sponsoring partners.

It is no easy achievement to reach a milestone of 25 years! Having the support of our sponsoring partners and readers has made this possible.

Our website hits have gone up exponentially and are reflected by the times and number of pages the readers are interacting with us. This is exciting to see as the numbers increase every day. The first thing I do in the morning after my coffee is to check the statistics. It’s nice to see that readers all over the world are enjoying the content and sending us such nice messages.

Along with that, I have received many messages from publishers of notable magazines, media companies, and celebrities about our achievement. Kind words of encouragement to keep moving forward and give good content to engage the readers.

Our readers are what makes us. We work very hard to provide content that is interesting and usable.

Howler’s sources for media are very broad and reach many. Our readership demographics cover the age range 35 and older, with the majority 55 and older. This is the group of people looking for options to travel, as well as retire and move to a safe and lovely place like Costa Rica.

Our increased audience interaction has come from a combination of rebranding as HOWLER INTERNATIONAL this last month, along with our new YouTube channel HOWLER TV. We are taking every article and turning it into an audiovisual format. Readers can relax and have the full article read to them with engaging pictures and film clips.

Many of these articles will be produced in Spanish and some in French. We want to include everyone. The world is yearning for good content. Many around the world have learned in recent years that they can live and work almost anywhere. We are showing them the beauty of Costa Rica and a mapped plan of how to achieve this.

We are also geographically marketing to the U.S., Canada, and parts of Europe.

We pick out particular articles that have interest and target them to those regions.

Our YouTube channel is getting off the ground. I believe this will be a big force in creating new engaged audiences. In the past 30 days, we have put up over 100 articles and videos covering many topics. Of course, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and LinkedIn are great tools and are very necessary along with the ever-important video market.

There is no one silver bullet for us to reach readers. With the ammunition we have and our ever-growing and creative concepts, we reach readership on many different levels.

We are ever-evolving and very active with our reach to the world. I have seen some communities that are so engaged in one form of advertising that it seems they are just marketing to their neighbors. It is important to tell the world about you.

Costa Rica remains in the top ranks of desirable places to retire. This equates to contacts for our sponsors with increased travel in Costa Rica, and also interest in property investment.

Our plan to produce a film series in Costa Rica is coming together. This is another tool that will keep the interest level of Costa Rica in the world’s view. As this project progresses, we will be putting together giveaway vacations and the chance to be a part of the production. This is very exciting and the content produced will be very high-quality. Stay tuned – it’s coming soon!

All of these tools are being implemented to engage and keep the buzz going about Costa Rica. HOWLER INTERNATIONAL remains the loudest voice in the forest.

The world is yearning for good content.

John B. Quam

Take advantage of social distancing and work with ocean views!

Work from anywhere

We take social distance serious

Your health is a priority for us!

- Check in with zero contact - 48 hours between reservations - Cleaning by professionals

Special rates! www.vacasa.com

Casa La Cima Hermosa Beach, Puntarenas

4001-8476

Explore Casa La Cima 3D

https://my.matterport.com/show/?m=gujEqcyYFDd

Enjoying your Howler digital magazine experience

Through out the digital magazine, you’ll see the “click here” button.

You’ll be taken to the Howler page for that article: • Open in FULL SCREEN • Read the whole article • Watch the audiovisual story magazine • Waze link (if applicable) • Article in Spanish/French (if applicable) • A fun online puzzle • Share the article on social media • Discover more related articles

HOWLER T r o o p

W

ith so many past Howler cover stories rightfully showcasing Costa Rica’s outdoor nature-infused riches, our June focus is on the nature of its human legacies.

We take you behind the walls of history, where all manner of museum treasures lie waiting to be discovered or revisited. The appeal of cultural gifts that keep on giving should not be underestimated. Nor should your next opportunity to explore these gems of artistic, scientific, or socio-economic importance be postponed. Join us for an inside glimpse that will awaken your curiosity to see much more in person at the National Museum of Costa Rica, Central Bank of Costa Rica Museums (PreColumbian Gold and Numismatic), Jade Museum, Children’s Museum of Costa Rica and Juan Santamaría Historical Cultural Museum.

Two very different paths to the past are traced in other e-magazine sections. An ACE story travels down the well-worn roads of a bygone era when ornately painted oxcarts served as wheels to the wider world for Tico farmers. Ancient mysteries are highlighted in a Travel & Adventure account of visitors seemingly transported twice back in time when viewing the El Farallón petroglyphs near Cañas, Guanacaste. Also in Travel & Adventure, find many great reasons to book your first or next Osa Peninsula getaway trip. Creature Feature will leave you wary of crossing paths unexpectedly in Costa Rica with a fer-de-lance or Brazilian wandering spider.

Joanna Blanco dedicates her regular Entrepreneur CR article in the CR Biz section this month to the celebration of Global Wellness Day on Saturday, June 12. Costa Rica’s ambassador for this remarkable annual event, Laura Barrantes Requeno, has put together an organizing team to encourage participation and show our country’s support to the rest of the world. Joanna, our featured contributor below, has a lot more to say about these activities and why she is so excited about the opportunity to raise awareness.

FEATURED CONTRIBUTOR Joanna Blanco is an integrative nutritional health coach who helps clients embrace wellness in five interconnected areas of life: relationships, livelihood, physical activity, spiritual awareness and diet.

Before moving to Costa Rica in 2018, she lived and worked in the hospitality and travel industry in Venezuela, Peru and the Dominican Republic.

As Howler’s regular Entrepreneur CR columnist since early 2019, she offers tips and tools for business owners to thrive and succeed in harmony with their overall well-being. Contact Joanna at joannablanco@vivesattva.com and follow her on Instagram

Pura Vida includes articles celebrating health and fitness in Tamarindo and suggestions for eco-friendly plants to protect vulnerable bee populations.

HOWLER

June 2021 Vol. 30 No. 6 PUBLISHER / EDITOR-in-CHIEF John B. Quam C r e at i v e & a r t Terry Carlile

WRITERS

m a r k e t i n g d i r e c t o r - Terry Carlile

Ivan Granados. Managing Partner at GM Attorneys, specializing in real estate and corporate law. igranados@ gmattorneyscr.com

Kelly Norris Mary Fernández

Lori Anne Haskell. Wildlife and birding stalker based in Herradura, Costa Rica, who spends her days hiking and travelling with her camera. She finds joy in capturing the personality of birds and animals and sharing the images and stories with the world. Find her on Facebook and Instagram @puravidablonde, and email: loriannehaskell@gmail.com.

Karl Kahler. Author of “Frommer’s Costa Rica 2017,” former travel editor of the Tico Times and former national editor of California’s San Jose Mercury News.

Laura Méndez. Founder of Pura Vida Vibrations. Offering sound journeys, breathwork experiences, cacao ceremonies & other activities. hello@puravidavibrations.com Ana Patricia Pacheco. Center for Research and Conservation of Cultural Heritage. Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports.

Nicole Rangel. Freelance writer and editor from Texas, now living in Tamarindo. Making memories forever with her family. Nicole. rangel@gmail.com Norm Schriever. Best-selling author, expat, cultural mad scientist, and enemy of the comfort zone. Places he has called home over the past decade include Costa Rica, Nicaragua, Cambodia, Thailand, and the Philippines.

Tatiana Vandruff. Principal LEED GA, at Grupo Pacifico Architects and Builders, sustainable design and construction for over 30 years. www.grupopacificocr.com or tvandruff@grupopacificocr.com Vern Veer Jr. Retired reptile specialist, Denver zoo. Co-owner of V3 Reptile breeders

account executives

E d i t o r i a l S ta f f Debbie Bride - Editorial Coordinator Laurie Quam - Copy Editor G r a p h i c D e s i g n - Terry Carlile c o v e r p h o t o - Courtesy of Central Bank Museum Business Development John D. Lane. jdlanelcm@gmail.com H OW L E R ( ™ ) 2 0 1 7

C o n ta c t

John Quam - Managing Partner headmonkey@howlermag.com Editor: editor@howlermag.com Advertising: ads@howlermag.com Design: design@howlermag.com CR Office: (506) 4701-5942 Howler Magazine Costa Rica @howlercostarica @thehowlermag @howlermagazine 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 Howler organization or its advertisers.

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.

Images not credited are acquired from stock photography services.

Copyright © 2021 The Howler Gold Coast CR S.A. Copyright © 2021 Howler Media Holding, Inc. Panama The Howler Gold Coast CR S.A.

Read all current and past articles online howlermag.com #S earch F ind Howl

Ced. Juridica: 3-101-725213 HOWLER (TM)2017

UP FRONT

COVER STORY

MUSEUMS OF COSTA RICA NATIONAL MUSEUM CENTRAL BANK MUSEUMS JADE MUSEUM CHILDREN’S MUSEUM JUAN SANTAMARIA HISTORICAL CULTURAL MUSEUM

TRAVEL & ADVENTURE

PURA

OFF THE BEATEN PATH

LIFESTYLE

El Farallón Petroglyphs

Bonjou

COOL PLACES

WELLNESS

OSA: Your Getaway to Paradise CREATURE FEATURE

Dangerous Duo

Estheti

ANIMAL LI

Eco-Fri

LIFESTYLE

SURFING CR Tide Chart Photo courtesy of Lori Anne Haskell, OSA: Your Getaway to Paradise

Celebra

MINDFULN

The Mo

A VIDA/LIVING CR

E FEATURE

ur les Francophones!

ARTS, CULTURE & ENTERTAINMENT CULTURAL HERITAGE

Wheels To the World SIMPLY SPANISH

S FEATURE

Colorful Expressions

IFE

CR BIZ

ics a Prominent Face of Medical Tourism

iendly Flora Protect Our Fauna

DOING BUSINESS RIGHT

E FEATURE

LEGALEASE

ating Healthy and Fitness in Tamarinda

NESS

ost Powerful “New You” Resolution

Costa Rica’s Legal System: Roman Civil Law Buying Real Estate In Costa Rica: the Basics, Part 2 ENTREPRENEUR CR

Global Wellness Day

UP FRONT

Museums of Costa R

Treasures for All to Discov

COVER STORY

Compiled by Howler Staff

Rica

ver

UP FRONT

N

ot surprisingly, Costa Rica’s abundance of nature-infused riches tends to eclipse its indoor attractions. This leaves much about the nature of Costa Ricans themselves undiscovered behind the walls of history in museum treasures.

For anyone visiting or living in this biodiverse wonderland, where the allure of wildlife-dwelling mountains, beaches and rainforests seems irresistible, the appeal of cultural gifts that keep on giving should not be underestimated. Nor should your next opportunity to explore any Tico legacy of artistic, scientific, or socio-economic development be conferred “someday” status.

If it’s hard to imagine ever managing to enjoy all of the outdoor adventures on your Costa Rica bucket list, let’s be realistic in making some adjustments for variety. Let’s start today by expanding that list, or making a different kind of list.

Why not allocate a day or two here and there — or even just a morning or afternoon — to take in a museum?

The only all-encompassing list of Costa Rica museums we could readily find online bears Wikipedia’s disclaimer that it’s incomplete and user input would be welcome. Viewing all of the “museums” search results at howlermag.com also gives you a sense of the vast number and scope, especially in an urban tourism context.

COVER STORY

For deeper insights, we invite you to join Howler in revisiting several iconic Costa Rican museums, as featured in these “Cultural Heritage” articles.

>National Museum of Costa Rica: The Shining Star of History >Central Bank of Costa Rica Museums: A Rich Legacy >Jade Museum: A Voyage of Art Through History >Children’s Museum of Costa Rica: Our History From the Darkness >Juan Santamaría Historical Cultural Museum: Discover a Heritage Like No Other

National Museum of Costa Rica: The Shining Star of History

T

he National Museum of Costa Rica is a history lover’s gift that keeps on giving: with each visit you learn more, dive into a new story and develop a deep appreciation for the vast reaches of history. Created in 1887 and relocated twice, it now occupies the Bellavista Fortress opposite the legislative assembly building in San José. This military barracks was built in 1917and figured prominently in Costa Rica’s civil war until the army’s abolishment in 1948.

UP FRONT

Central Bank of Costa Rica Museums: A Rich Legacy

N

COVER STORY

o trip to San José should be considered complete without visiting one of its many historical museums. The Museums of the Central Bank of Costa Rica has two of these museums, each offering fascinating and surprising insights into some of the country’s most precious legacies. Living up to the promise of its name, the Pre-Columbian Gold Museum showcases the splendor of Costa Rica before the conquest of America. The Numismatic Museum takes visitors on a chronological voyage back in time through the nation’s post-conquest heritage of coin and paper money, starting in 1516.

Jade Museum: A Voyage of Art Through History

C

osta Rica’s awe-inspiring Jade Museum takes visitors on a voyage through the diverse artistic history of Pre-Columbian communities. Located in San José’s Plaza de la Cultura (Plaza of Culture), the museum was created with the intent to stave off tomb raiders and the loss of valuable historical artifacts. Multisensory exhibits housing some 7,000 pieces go far beyond the opportunity to view all manner of jade artifacts; they represent a rare journey back in time.

UP FRONT

Juan Santamaría Historical Cultural Museum:

Discover a Heritage Like No Other

H

COVER STORY

istory buffs can explore endless facets of Costa Rica’s military, cultural and artistic heritage through ever-changing exhibits and events at the Juan Santamaría Historical Cultural Museum. Located in the city of Alajuela, near San José, this fascinating attraction occupies the community’s old army

barracks and prison buildings dating back to the 1870s. The museum’s historical themes reflect the Costa Rican state’s formation, from becoming an independent nation in 1821, to political and military conflicts three decades later.

Children’s Museum of Costa Rica:

Our History from the Darkness

T

he Children’s Museum of Costa Rica was the first learning center of its kind in Central America, opening its doors in April 1994 with 21 interactive exhibits. As envisioned and brought to life by Costa Rica’s then-first lady, Gloria Bejarano Almada, it saw the transformation of an abandoned San José penitentiary into a vibrant space for enlightenment and enrichment.

A popular attraction is the Franklin Chan room, where Costa Rica’s first astronaut comes alive in animatronics.

Thank you Emanuel and Valentina for your reports!

TRAVEL & ADVENTURE

EL FARALLÓN PETROGLYPHS TA K I N G A S T E P B AC K I N T I M E , T W I C E

T

here is a place right outside Cañas, Guanacaste, where you can be transported not once, but twice, back in time and many would say that you can even have a spiritual connection to the past and nature.

OFF THE BEATEN PATH

El Farallón National Monument is located on the vast Las Lomas finca of the López Monge family. It’s a site you must see for yourself. The massive rock petroglyphs (drawings on rock face with incisions) provide insight into an extinct civilization, while the farm itself is a beautiful reminder that happiness is where the home is.

The time travel begins when you navigate the typical rocky roads of Guanacaste and come to the finca’s entrance on top of a vast mountain overlooking valleys and rivers with a spectacular view of Tenorio volcano. Here you enter the gates of the Las Lomas finca and come upon the amazing family farm with an orchard, cattle, stables and a farmhouse steeped in history.

by Nicole Rangel Photos by Marian Paniagua Original publication date: November 2018

The López Monge family settled on this land in the 1950s, building each of the farm structures by hand. Three of the nine siblings, Elías, Juan, Mariano and his wife, Giselle Elizondo, still live on the farm.

As you walk down the wooded path, guided by one of them, to the rocky riverbed of the Cabuyo River, you can feel a sense that you are more a part of this family and nature than just a visitor.

With El Farallón on your right and the Cabuyo River on the left, you enter your second time travel.

El Farallón is a massive wall, approximately half a soccer field long and nine stories tall, with engravings from the Corobici people. This rocky riverbed of ignimbrite rock, created from volcanic activity millions of years ago ,was the home of this reclusive tribe of people who lived here over 1,500 years ago.

The images spring out at you, and then fade away, almost like your soul needed to see them to put your own story together.

TRAVEL & ADVENTURE The artwork varies from animals to geometric shapes to celestial beings. You can see deep divots that are believed to have provided grounding for some type of scaffolding. The elusive Corobici people may have picked this place because it was protected and the rock was a perfect muse for their art.

develop their own interpretations instead of relying on him to show them. His family feels this place is spiritual and the Corobici people used this area for religious ceremonies and to communicate to the tribe. The echo reverberates quite far down the river walls.

First page photo: Mariano, one of the Lopez B see the wall I discover a new shape.”

Elias, Giselle, Mariano and Juan (left to right) private farm.

As you sit there in peace, with the river flowing behind you, wind touching your cheeks, looking up As you look up at the massive at these drawings from people wall you begin to see a variety who sat in the same place 1,500 of image engravings. Do you see years ago, you get a sense that a face? An animal? A person? A sun? The images spring out at you, we are all connected by what is important to us, people and and then fade away, almost like the earth. Maybe the Corobici your soul needed to see them to people were telling us that time put your own story together. really is just a placeholder for our souls, and nature is an avenue “You need to find your own for experiencing what is around wisdom in the rock,” Mariano says. “Each time I come here, I see us. At least that is the story we experienced on our visit. Maybe something new. I find a different story.” He says that he prefers that next time our story will be people find their own images and different.

Things to Know When Visiting El Farallón You must call the family at least 24 hours in advance to arrange a tour. In the interest of safety, it is not recommended for children younger than teens. Only small groups of people are allowed at one time, and sometimes you can dip into the river. The family only speaks Spanish.

OFF THE BEATEN PATH

Cost: ¢3,000 ($5.30)

Contact: (506) 2200-0073

Access: Via Arenal (route 142) or Liberia (route 1).

You will need an SUV, 4X4 or truck to navigate some of the rocky terrain and a couple of small water crossings.

What to Bring: Water, snacks, hiking/water shoes, camera, organic bug spray, swimsuit Land Information: In 1998, the Ministry of Culture and Youth declared El Farallón a National Monument, with 100 of the 240 hectares of Las Lomas subject to the Payment for Environmental Services Program (PSA).

Surprising details: We found that if you took a photo with your camera and looked at it, you could see details of the petroglyphs much better.

Brothers says, "every time I come down to are part of the Lopez family that owns the

Welcome to Osa Peninsula!

Turn-Key Property Management Services • Vacation home rental management • Marketing of home • Landscaping

• • • •

Home cleaning Swimming pool Large and small repairs CPA reporting and tax filings

+506.7100.1006 +1.763.306.8981 Phone/text/WhatsApp Info@OsaPropertyManagement.com OsaPropertyManagement.com

Our property management services focus on Chontales, San Buenas, Ojochal, Uvita, Playa Hermosa, and Dominical.

COOL PLACES

TRAVEL & ADVENTURE

Dolphin jumping

OSA:

Your Getaway to Paradise Story and photos by Lori Anne Haskell

T

he Osa Peninsula area is my favorite part of Costa Rica, so I happily accepted an invitation in December 2020 to visit Puerto Jimenez with a group of friends.

My trip highlights, shared with insider tips in the full online version of this story (see “click” logo above), are meant to encourage Howler readers to plan your own getaway to paradise. I’m already looking forward to my next Osa adventure.

Our first full day in the peninsula began with a boat trip on the Pacific Ocean to see aquatic wildlife and sea birds. The adventure did not disappoint. Before long, the boat was surrounded by hundreds of dolphins, which swam by the boat for a long duration. We also saw sea turtles, a manta ray and many birds.

TRAVEL & ADVENTURE That night, our group took a bioluminescent kayak tour.

Immediately after setting out, we saw the gorgeous blue-green lights in the water where the plankton hit the paddle. Above us was a sky full of stars and below us, the entire sea lighting up from our paddles and hands in the water. It was pure magic ... the magic of nature that is!

On day two, the group headed to Corcovado National Park, where our hike took us through beautiful jungle and beach paths. One of the first animals we saw was a tayra, sitting quietly above us high in the tree. The tayra is difficult to see and is usually very shy and skittish around humans, so we were very lucky to spot it.

Other highlights of our park visit included seeing a group of coatis raiding a turtle nest and seeing all four monkey species at the same time.

COOL PLACES

Ocean dolphin tour, Pueto Jimenez

Night hikes can be amazing in the Osa Peninsula. There is much more wildlife activity at night than during the day, even if the animals are harder to spot. I was lucky to have help from our guide, Cesar Moraga Ruiz, during both of our late-night walks.

It was very cool to observe all the creatures we found within a very short distance of our accommodations. We spotted and heard several owls. We also saw a venomous terciopelo snake lying across the path we were walking on. Without Cesar’s warning, I would have stepped right on the snake. Yikes!

Brown pelican Squirrel monkey

Yellow-throated toucan

Coati at turtle ne

est

The Osa Peninsula has amazing views, beautiful beaches and abundant wildlife.

Lizard

Corcovade Beach

Let our team assist you with your getaway vacation: • rentals • tours • concierge

Contact us today: info@osapropertymanagement.com

Casa Loros Rojos: 2 bed/2 bath (4 guests) Uvita

Casa Sedona: 3 bed/ 3 bath (6 guests) Uvita

Casa Aventura: 5 bed/5 bath (13 guests) Ojochal

Casa Arcoiris y Sonrisa: 3 bed/3 bath (6 guests) Ojochal

TRAVEL & ADVENTURE

Dangerous Duo Beware of Fer-de-Lance and Brazilian Wandering Spider

A CRETURE FEATURE

by Vern Veer

I

f size and appearance alone are any indication, Howler’s two featured creatures this month have virtually nothing in common. One is a snake and the other an insect. Both, however, can pose a deadly danger by happening to be in a human’s rightful place at the wrong time.

The fer-de-lance, known in Spanish as terciopelo, takes on a muddied appearance from living in leafy ground litter, but actually has brightly colored features. It’s a nocturnal and solitary creature, less active in cooler, drier periods.

These pit vipers can be found basking in Fer-de-lance the sun near water during the day, waiting to ambush their prey. When cornered, they This venomous snake, in habitats ranging will become defensive. They are described as irritable, fast-moving, excitable and from southern Mexico to northern South America, is referred to as the ultimate pit viper. unpredictable. Because they are large and can It’s considered more dangerous to humans travel with their heads up, bites to humans can occur above the knee. than other vipers because it chooses to live in close proximity to humans, and is the main cause of snakebite incidents.

Bottom line — keep your eyes open and be aware of your surroundings.

TRAVEL & ADVENTURE

A CRETURE FEATURE

video

Bottom line — keep your eyes open and be aware of you surroundings. The fatality rate from fer-de-lance bites in most areas is 0% as antivenom is usually readily available. Bu untreated or improperly treated bites can result in necrosis and death

— n ur y e %, y ut y n h.

Brazilian wandering spider This giant spider is named for its habit of wandering rain-forest floors at night, unlike other spiders that choose habitats higher off the ground in lairs or webs. During the day, Brazilian wandering spiders hide in rotted logs, beneath rocks and in dark, moist places near human dwellings. Because they are often found in bunches of pineapples or bananas, “banana spider” is another common name.

video

The legs of these spiders can be five or six inches long, and their bodies one or two inches. A key distinguishing characteristic is their defensive posture — two front leg pairs held high, revealing a banded leg pattern and display of chelicerae (fangs).

Despite being considered the world’s deadliest spider, the Brazilian wandering spider’s mouthparts are very small and not well-adapted to attack on large mammals such as humans.

However, its wandering nature within densely populated areas poses a threat, particularly in dark, cool hiding places such as houses, clothes, cars, boots and boxes. Best advice — be sure to shake out blankets, clothing and shoes, and watch out where you root around.

2

| #searchfindhowl | online

howlermag.com

MOON PHASES

June 2

3rd Quarter

June 10

JUNE TIDE CHART Day

High

Low

High

Low

High

Tue 01

01:03 0.24 ft

07:30 8.63 ft

13:35 1.17 ft

19:49 8.22 ft

Wed 02

02:01 0.78 ft

08:30 8.31 ft

14:39 1.55 ft

20:52 7.71 ft

Thu 03

03:01 1.24 ft

09:31 8.10 ft

15:45 1.76 ft

21:56 7.38 ft

Fri 04

04:01 1.57 ft

10:31 8.02 ft

16:49 1.79 ft

22:58 7.23 ft

Sat 05

05:00 1.75 ft

11:26 8.05 ft

17:46 1.67 ft

23:55 7.24 ft

Sun 06

05:53 1.81 ft

12:15 8.16 ft

18:36 1.46 ft

Mon 07

00:45 7.36 ft

06:40 1.78 ft

13:00 8.31 ft

19:20 1.22 ft

Tue 08

01:30 7.53 ft

07:23 1.70 ft

13:41 8.47 ft

19:59 0.96 ft

Wed 09

02:12 7.72 ft

08:03 1.60 ft

14:20 8.62 ft

20:37 0.74 ft

Thu 10

02:52 7.89 ft

08:42 1.51 ft

14:58 8.73 ft

21:15 0.57 ft

Fri 11

03:32 8.02 ft

09:21 1.44 ft

15:36 8.76 ft

21:52 0.49 ft

Sat 12

04:10 8.10 ft

10:00 1.41 ft

16:15 8.71 ft

22:29 0.50 ft

June 17

Sun 13

04:50 8.13 ft

10:40 1.43 ft

16:54 8.58 ft

23:08 0.59 ft

1st Quarter

Mon 14

05:29 8.12 ft

11:22 1.48 ft

17:35 8.38 ft

23:47 0.74 ft

Tue 15

06:10 8.10 ft

12:05 1.55 ft

18:18 8.15 ft

Wed 16

00:28 0.92 ft

06:53 8.10 ft

12:52 1.60 ft

19:05 7.91 ft

Thu 17

01:13 1.09 ft

07:40 8.13 ft

13:44 1.61 ft

19:56 7.71 ft

Fri 18

02:01 1.22 ft

08:30 8.24 ft

14:39 1.55 ft

20:53 7.59 ft

Sat 19

02:54 1.29 ft

09:25 8.42 ft

15:39 1.37 ft

21:53 7.60 ft

Sun 20

03:52 1.26 ft

10:23 8.69 ft

16:40 1.09 ft

22:55 7.77 ft

Mon 21

04:51 1.12 ft

11:21 9.03 ft

17:40 0.70 ft

23:56 8.07 ft

Tue 22

05:52 0.89 ft

12:19 9.41 ft

18:38 0.26 ft

New Moon

June 24 Full Moon

SUNRISE JUNE 1 JUNE 30

5:14 am 5:19 am

SUNSET JUNE 1 JUNE 30

5:54 pm 6:00 pm

Wed 23

00:55 8.45 ft

06:51 0.62 ft

13:15 9.75 ft

19:34 −0.16 ft

Thu 24

01:51 8.86 ft

07:48 0.36 ft

14:10 10.01 ft

20:28 −0.49 ft

Fri 25

02:46 9.21 ft

08:44 0.17 ft

15:03 10.12 ft

21:20 −0.67 ft

Sat 26

03:39 9.45 ft

09:38 0.10 ft

15:55 10.07 ft

22:11 −0.69 ft

Sun 27

04:31 9.55 ft

10:31 0.17 ft

16:47 9.83 ft

23:01 −0.53 ft

Mon 28

05:22 9.50 ft

11:25 0.39 ft

17:38 9.44 ft

23:50 −0.20 ft

Tue 29

06:14 9.31 ft

12:18 0.71 ft

18:30 8.93 ft

00:40 0.24 ft

07:05 9.02 ft

Wed 30

Browse all surfing articles:

13:12 1.08 ft

19:23 8.38 ft

SURFIN G COSTA RICA

Coming in JULY

“The Thrills of Skim Boarding” Cristobal Loria, skimborder May 2021 at Playa Prieta Photo by Perry Carlile

You only celebrate your 25th anniversary and

WOW....OUR WORLDWIDE RESPON S W E E VI

G A P 00+

a c i r e m A 0 , h 5 9 % Nort Rica a t 67 s o C e % p 2 o 2 r u E % 11

25 year time line with links to availabe magazines

T

of publishing once...

NSE!

Most read article: 7,300+ reads

To see the magazine!

Top viewed video: Gyrocopter Girl 7,000+ views

AUDIOVISUAL EDITION INTE RNATIO NAL

MAY 2021

Costa Rica TO TH E WO RLD

since 1996

NEW

Timeline: Celebrating our 25 years How well do you know Costa Rica landscapes?

audiovisual edition

...more!

h o w l e r m a g . c o m

DIGITAL mags

Reinvent

Turning DreamsInto IntoRea Reality lity

Turning Dreams

www.marvistacr.com US 1-888-414-1836 CR +506 8387 8888

Your Life

CULTURAL HERITAGE

ARTS CULTURE ENTERTAINMENT

Wheels to the World Ox Cart of Bygone Era a Cultural Treasure Today

by Ana Patricia Pacheco Ureña

ARTS CULTURE ENTERTAINMENT

The ox cart opened doors of progress to our ancestors.

A

CULTURAL HERITAGE

lthough its golden age in Costa Rica’s export trade history has long since faded, the ox cart remains one of the country’s most important ancestral legacies. As an unmistakable national symbol, it embodies the spirit of work and humility, as if inscribed in the soul of Costa Rican generations past, present and future.

This sense of timelessness was brought to bear from a cultural heritage standpoint in relatively recent times. A desire to revitalize and preserve the traditional use of ox and carts in Costa Rica motivated a research study by Carmen Murillo, Cecilia Dobles and Giselle Chang to carry out an investigation. Sponsored by Costa Rica’s Ministry of Culture and Youth, and UNESCO (United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization), this project formed the country’s submission to occupy an exclusive global list of cultural heritage assets. On November 25, 2005, the combined tradition of “boyeo” (use of oxen) and “carreta” (cart) was declared by UNESCO as a "Masterpiece of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity."

The agricultural use of boyeos and carretas originated in colonial times. Ox carts provided a transportation vehicle for family members as well as export crops.

In addition to tirelessly carrying loads of coffee beans to market, they provided an inseparable link between rural Costa Rica and the outside world. On return trips back home, the ox cart’s turning axles sang a melodious song the oxherd was proud of, carrying the promise of news and goods from overseas.

Ox carts had a presence in the fervor of religious and festive celebrations, and also in political fervor. They figured into some of the most important moments of Costa Rican peasant family lives. The ox cart opened doors of progress to our ancestors.

It built our homeland as a primordial tool in the construction of buildings, temples and villages, as well as the harvesting of crops.

Its humanitarian service extended to the transportation of sick people. It was also a party to the secret rendezvous of amorous couples, sneaking around to hidden places.

Ornately hand-painted ox carts are universally recognized as an indelible hallmark of Costa Rica’s identity. Whether a tribute to the farm family’s affection, ancestry, location or social status, the practice of transforming plain wood into a canvas of dazzling colors, texture and light became part of the ox cart’s symbolic national destiny. The meticulous craftsmanship that makes each cart a uniquely expressive and beautiful work of art is celebrated and showcased in museum exhibits, parades and festivals throughout the country.

After 1960, the mechanization of agriculture displaced ox carts to a significant extent. However, they can still be found,

particularly in high valley regions and steep lands where vast coffee plantations thrive, or in less developed, remote locations. But as functional uses of the ox cart have declined, efforts to raise awareness of its cultural significance have increased. In effect, this former mainstay of locomotion has been "folklorized." Even when long since replaced by modern engines, the ox cart still travels slowly along the roads. Aromas emanate not only of coffee, but also sugar cane and firewood. The ox cart is the early riser. It is the sun at noon, indefatigable by dusty or muddy roads or virgin mountain trails. It is the indissoluble association of oxen and oxherd.

ARTS CULTURE ENTERTAINMENT

COLORFUL Expressions Figures of Speech Figured Out

by Karl Kahler

SIMPLY SPANISH

buena nota — Literally “good note,” this usually refers to a nice person. “La vecina es buena nota” — “The neighbor is a nice lady.” Also an expression of approval or congratulations. “Ya te graduaste? ¡Qué buena nota!” — “You graduated? Well done!”

hacerse el chancho, hacerse el maje, hacerse el ruso — “to make yourself a pig,” “to make yourself a dummy,” “to make yourself a Russian,” all meaning to play dumb, to act like you don’t know what’s going on

jalar las orejas — “to pull the ears,” to darle pelota — “to give the ball to someone,” punish someone to pay attention to someone, usually used in the negative. “Te traté de advertir, pero llorar a moco tendido — “to cry until the snot comes out,” to cry a lot no me diste pelota” — “I tried to warn you, but you didn’t listen.” manos en la masa — “hands in the dough,” caught red-handed, caught in the act hablar hasta por los codos — “to talk even from the elbows,” to talk and talk and talk mita y mita — “half and half,” divided in two, as a bill at a restaurant. “Paguemos hablar paja — “to talk straw,” meaning to say a bunch of BS, or to speak of matters of mita y mita” — “Let’s split the bill.” little importance, or to kill time talking

moros en la costa — “Moors on the coast,” people nearby who can overhear a private conversation

te conozco, mosco — “I know you, mosquito,” meaning “I know you really well, I know what you’re thinking.”

ni lerdo ni perezoso — “neither slow nor lazy,” meaning fast

tener la camiseta puesta — “to have your T-shirt on,” to work hard. Ayer perezeó todo el día, pero hoy llegó con la camiseta puesta — “He slacked off all day yesterday, but today he showed up ready to work.”

ni un cinco — “not even a nickel.” “Esa muchacha sale de fiesta con los compañeros y no anda ni un cinco” — “That girl goes out partying with her friends and she doesn’t have a nickel on her.” ¡Ojo! — “Eye!” Be careful, watch out. pelo de gato — “hair of the cat,” meaning drizzle or light rain pura bulla — “pure noise,” just rumors, nothing reliable

tirar la toalla — “to throw in the towel,” to give up tras de cuernos, palos — “behind horns, sticks,” meaning bad luck on top of bad luck. ¿Va llorar? — “Are you going to cry?” This means “Don’t be a crybaby,” “Don’t complain so much.”

¡Seás tonto! — Literally “Be dumb,” this expression drops the understood “No” in front and actually means “Don’t be dumb.” sudar la gota gorda — “to sweat the big, fat drop,” meaning to work hard

Experience the

SPANISH

Quarterly magazines!

• Click photo and open in full screen • Unmute the video to hear the story in Spanish • Share with your Spanish speaking friends and family

Sponsored content Photo courtesy of Tres Amigos Realty Group

BONJOUR LES FRANCO

M

LIFESTYLE FEATURE

PURA VIDA / LIVING CR

y name is Alain Mouquet, I have been in Costa Rica since 1990. I´m a professional real estate agent with Tres Amigos Realty Group in the beautiful region of the Gulf of Papagayo. For this article I will write it in my native language to all the beautiful French speaking people around the world but please feel free to reach out to me as I speak three languages fluently, including Spanish and English.

OPHONES!

A peine arrivé au Costa Rica en 1990, je savais que ce pays m´offrais tout ce que je rêvais, une température incroyable, des gens accueillants, une démocratie stable, un style de vie simple et rationnel.

Mes premières années dans la vallée central du Costa Rica ont été incroyables, professionnellement personnellement surtout avec la naissance de mes deux premiers enfants Bianca et Jourdan, mais c´est surtout quand je me suis installé dans la région du Gulf du Papagayo en 1999 que je me sentis littéralement au paradis.

This article available in audiovisual in French & English

avec ma famille d´une vie incroyable avec l’opportunité de découvrir des coins en mer paradisiaques accompagné de dauphins, baleines, tortues et une immense variété de poissons et crustacés exotiques. Notre faune terrestre est aussi exubérante, on y retrouve une panoplie incroyable d´animaux sauvages comme le puma, le singe hurleur, raton laveur, faucon, renard, jaguar, etc…

Avoir l’unique aéroport International de plage à 30 minutes de la région du Papagayo pour retrouver les plages de Panama, Hermosa, Coco et Ocotal a été aussi un atout important dans mon choix Le climat sec et chaud de cette région de vivre dans cette région. Toutes les m´émerveillait (en moyenne 32 ° toute l´année), la diversité des plages en chaines hôtelières internationales y sont forme de fer à cheval m´a séduit dès mes implantées démontrant la préférence aux investisseurs de choisir cet endroit premiers mois. Profiter de l’incroyable océan Pacifique, toujours très accessible merveilleux. A cette croissance et calme, me remplissais de bonheur dans commercial c´est ajouté un nombre incroyable de nouveaux commerces cette région unique de la province du comme les tours opérateurs, tous Guanacaste, Costa Rica. les services essentiels, les cliniques Durant plus de 10 ans j´ai un la chance privés, les nouvelles écoles, les bars, les restaurants toute la disposition des d´administrer des hôtels de luxes à la Costariciens, Vacanciers et des résidents, plage Panama et Hermosa en profitant View from Casa Sol Alta Vista

En 2011, je joignis la compagnie immobilière « Très Amigos » qui est l´agence la plus établie de notre région. Grâce aux Au fil des années la région du Papagayo horaires plus flexibles cette nouvelles carrières me permet de profiter un peu plus de c´est développé considérément rendant ma ma vie de famille incluant la récente naissance vie quotidienne de plus en plus pratique et agréable. J´ai aussi rencontrer durant ce temps de ma nouvelle petite princesse Samantha.

Les infrastructures des 10 dernières années ma femme Estrella, avec qui je partage des moments de bonheur dans un environnent comprenant plus de routes pavées, la fibre-optique internet, l´augmentation de tropical très romantique tout en ayant le commerces, la facilité de trouver presque confort d´une vie moderne! Notre région du Gulf du Papagayo deviens de plus en plus tout, les grands centres de produit importés comme le nouveau « Pricemart » a seulement accessible aux besoins des gens comme en 30 minutes de nos plages a vraiment augmenté Amérique du Nord. En revanche le reste de la ma qualité de vie tout en gardant une côte du Pacifique, qui est aussi très jolie, mais parfois plus compliqué pour ce qui est de la vie ambiance Tropical simple et terre à terre. sociale et des services à proximités. Ce sont Aujourd´hui en 2021 je ne pourrais plus des endroits que je visite plutôt en vacances imaginer vivre ailleurs. J´espère que tous mes avec toujours le bonheur de retourner à la amis et clients puisses aussi profiter de ce maison de Playa Hermosa. C´est pourquoi j´ai paradis. Ma vie au Costa Rica a été une belle adopté cette région ou je me sens comme « histoire mais mon aventure dans la région du Chez moi ».

Gulf du Papagayo sera toujours mes moments les plus heureux et « Pura Vida » de ma vie.

LIFESTYLE FEATURE

PURA VIDA / LIVING CR

qui comme moi, ont reconnu ce paradis comme le meilleur endroit pour vivre heureux.

View from Villa Maravilla Monte Bello Lot 24

A bientôt j´espère

Alain Mouquet Champagne

alaintresamigos@gmail.com www.costaricabeachlife.com Cell Phone in Costa Rica: (011)506-8370-3003 Canada & USA Toll Free Number:1-888-818-2087

BUILDING RELATIONSHIPS AND IMPROVING LIFESTYLES

ONE CLIENT AT A TIME

COVERING THE ENTIRE PAPAGAYO REGION Playas del Coco

Playa Hermosa

Playa Panama

www.playasdelcocoproperty.com

www.tresamigos-cr.com

prestigecostaricaproperties.com

2670-2175

2672-4100

2670-2175

PURA VIDA/CR LIVING

Esthetics a Growing Face of Medical Tourism Treatments and Vacations Mutually Compatible

A

s one of the world’s most popular medical tourism destinations, Costa Rica offers no end of accessible and affordable options for services and treatments.

In cases where recovery time and follow-up care pose little or no inconvenience, there is no better place to enjoy an unforgettable vacation while tending to your health and wellness needs.

Esthetic treatments are one of the best examples of the win-win benefits that are attracting a growing number of tourists and local clients alike to Guanacaste facilities like Pacific Medical Clinic, operating in Liberia since 2012 and for five years in Tamarindo.

Sponsored Content

Highlighting three of the most commonly sought facial rejuvenation treatments below, clinic manager, Dr. Paula Avila, a surgeon specializing in esthetic medicine, explains why they are so well suited to a beach-loving lifestyle.

“These are procedures that have immediate results without interrupting your favorite activities,” she says. “You can go out walking soon afterwards without having to hide from the sun for long periods of time.”

WELLNESS FEATURE

‘You can go out walking soon afterwards without having to hide from the sun for long periods.’

Botulinum toxin

Platelet rich plasma

Commonly known by the trade name Botox, this is the most highly recommended treatment for facial skin rejuvenation. Its application by injection is fast and safe, with results that are often surprising! There are no contraindications for sun exposure or activities such as boating or swimming. The advantages of a refreshed look become visible within 30 minutes. While resting and relaxing on the beach, your face is transforming for perfect vacation photos. A bonus for many tourists is that botox treatments in Costa Rica cost less and access is more convenient than in other parts of the world.

This famously known treatment makes cell regeneration possible while you vacation!

Pacific Medical Clinic is equipped, in compliance with high safety standards, to stimulate facial rejuvenation through the use of your own blood cells in a therapeutic serum. The results of a single session of a facial illumination are 100 percent natural looking and compatible with your skin type, generating changes lasting for weeks.

Hyaluronic acid facial filler

The facial plasma application technique is delicate and fine, in an effort to avoid bruising and inflammation. The recovery period is generally 24 hours or as long as 48 hours maximum. Most patients are suitable candidates for the procedure, with very few exceptions.

Imagine showing up for your next local tour with no more sad and tired face! The application of this remarkable product Pacific Medical Clinic offers these services immediately eliminates the so-called both in Liberia and Tamarindo by appointment marionette grooves on the facial skin, as well as only. For information, 506.2667.0767 or email: the appearance of deep circles under the eyes. info@pacificmedicalspa.com The filler procedure takes about 30 minutes and the favorable results of improved eye contour last up to a year.

Full service Hotel, Restaurant and Event Center

seisplayashotel.com +506-2653-6818

PURA VIDA/LIVING CR

Eco-Friendly Flora to Protect Our Fauna

ANIMAL LIFE

“Bee” Kind to Vital Insects

by Tatiana Vandruff

We need to embrace one of our most threatened food chain contributors, the bee.

A

mong the endless possibilities for building and living greener in Costa Rica, we can think beyond measures to conserve resources like electricity and water.

By applying some basic planet-protective principles to your home landscape, you can place your little piece of paradise into action.

It’s a matter of making more thoughtful planting decisions for your property.

Plant native tree species around your new dwelling — those that create shade so you, as well as other creatures, can enjoy. Spread your good will for a wider environmental reach. Plant trees not only on your own land, but wherever your travels lead. Whenever possible, dry out the seeds shed by your trees at home. Then during the rainy season, scatter them as you pass by open areas. No one will object to a wonderful tree that bears shade and possibly fruit. Our planet needs as many trees planted as possible.

Simply choosing native flower-bearing trees and bushes can make all the difference in creating safe spaces for bees to be able to pollinate and reproduce. Take it a step further — if you have sufficient land and space — and create your own beehives to produce honey as well as a safe haven for bees.

PURA VIDA/LIVING CR

Talking about bees, the need to embrace one of our most threatened food chain contributors cannot be underestimated. This insect plays a vital pollen delivery role to sustain our food crops, and in turn, human survival, and should never be taken for granted. Yet, at a time when pesticides are depleting bee populations around the world, relatively little awareness of this extremely important issue is being promoted.

ANIMAL LIFE

Costa Rica is no exception. Here, neonicotinoids (Bayer trade name Imidacloprid) are openly used as a pesticide on fields of cotton, rice, banana, sugarcane, melon, onions, citrus, oranges, potatoes, cereals, flowers and more. This compound has proven toxic properties that attack insects systemically and can live in the soil for up to

nine years. In bees, it causes disorientation and eventually death. This pesticide was banned in the EU after scientific studies proved conclusively the deadly impact on bee populations.

On a related note — as always — conserve water. For landscape irrigation, use a drip system rather than a hose to water plants.

Elsewhere in your home, never leave a water faucet running under any circumstance. Use plumbing fixtures that consume the minimum amount of water, and choose appliances with the same goal by checking specifications before you purchase. If you live in a coastal area and build a new pool, fill it with water imported from abundant resources without depleting the supply of treated water from a local aquifer.

The Gold Coast of Costa Rica Horizon Pacific is located in Playa Tamarindo and exists to help you find a tropical retreat on the gorgeous Gold Coast of Costa Rica - the most beautiful backdrop to renew your spirit and help you reconnect to your favorite people and to the world.

With lush tropical flowers, fresh delicious food and exciting experiences, Horizon Pacific will provide the best accommodations and assistance finding exciting adventures. Please reach out to our team, so we can help your travel dreams become a reality. And not to worry, we will continue all our Covid-19 safety measures and flexible options.

Vacation Rentals • Property Management • HOA Management 888-795-7373 (US & Canada) • (011) 506-2653-0390 • HorizonPacificVacations.com

PURA VIDA / LIVING CR

Celebrating Health and Fitness in

Ta m a r i n d o

By Norm Schriever

C

osta Rica is a nature lover’s dream, with an astounding percentage of the world’s biodiversity and a thriving eco-tourism industry. The nation of pura vida also contains a certified Blue Zone, namely one of those regions around the world where residents routinely enjoy atypical health and longevity. (Costa Rica’s Blue Zone is in Nicoya, where living to 100 years old and being active is nothing uncommon.)

Is it the diet heavy in “the three sisters” — squash, corn and beans? The drinking water heavy in calcium? Strong social networks and a plan de vida, or purpose to life that keeps a sparkle in the eyes and a pep in the step?

LIFESTYLE FEATURE

The answer is all of the above, and more. Costa Ricans, in general, embrace a healthier lifestyle than folks are used to in the United States and … and … ok, healthier than the United States.

Many people make the trip to Costa Rica specifically to adopt a lifestyle based on health and fitness. I know I did, twice.

I first moved to Costa Rica in 2011 after selling everything I owned and quitting my job in the States. My goals were to get in better shape, slow down, and, ideally, not croak of a stress-related heart attack by 40 years old.

Different time and place Back then, Tamarindo, where I settled, was a much different town. The epicenter was the notorious (fun) Bar One perched on the top floor of Plaza Tamarindo, overlooking the streets below like a wink from a drunken pirate.

Having returned to Costa Rica last November, close to 10 years later, I’m still enjoying my journey of becoming a healthier, better version of myself.

But, this time, Tamarindo seems to have matured with me. The town’s vibe now revolves around far more than the fiesta nightlife. Instead of Bar One tempting us, there is a fitness studio and health bar” dispenses vegetable juices and spin classes instead of bad decisions in a glass.

To me, it signals a cultural shift. I see a real healthy revolution underway, no doubt accelerated by our collective refocus on health during a global pandemic.

Many people make the trip to Costa Rica specifically to adopt a lifestyle based on health and fitness.

PURA VIDA / LIVING CR

It’s also proven to be good business. Just look at the Rythmia Life Advancement Center, a resort specializing in ayahuasca ceremonies not far from Tamarindo, where “93.26% of our guests report a life-changing miracle during their stay,” according to its website. I can almost imagine that one schlub who wouldn’t stop complaining about mosquitos and weak wi-fi that screwed up the center’s 100% track record.

LIFESTYLE FEATURE

Joking aside, I have several friends who attended and raved about their powerful experiences there. I’d even be open to attending an ayahuasca ceremony IF I could work up the courage that my skull wouldn’t crack open and ooze melted crayons as I go running off into the jungle naked. (Which is sort of the whole point, I guess.)

However, that diversity of wellness is one of the things I truly love about Tamarindo. No matter what sport, adventure or activity you’re into, you’ll find an opportunity, as well as a whole tribe of people who are doing the same.

PURA VIDA/LIVING CR

The Most Powerful “New You” Resolution

MINDFULNESS

Think Well of Yourself

by Laura Méndez

Our THOUGHTS are also energy.

W

hat kind of thought or idea for a “new Science says you” resolution can be profound and powerful enough to change the life Scientific discoveries about the biochemical path you walk? effects of the brain’s functioning also show that: Consider this famous quote by Nikola 1. All of your body cells are affected by Tesla: “If you want to find the secrets of the your thoughts. universe, think in terms of energy, frequency 2. Epigenetic effects occur during and vibration.” pregnancy and over the course of a human lifespan.

Basically everything in existence is made 3. Epigenetic changes can be reversed. out of energy. For example, 99.9999999% of the 4. Different lifestyle choices and atoms that compose our body cells are empty environmental exposures can alter space. So the rest of the matter we perceive is DNA and play a role in determining in the form of energy. health outcomes.

Our thoughts are also energy. Depending on their nature, they will have a higher or lower frequency, expressed as positive or negative thoughts.

What this new science tells us is that our genes do not control our lives; we do. We truly are the master of our biology. The time has come for all of us to take back our power.

What we regard as common knowledge — learned from the thoughts and ideas of others as shared energy — is that we are largely victims of our genes. Many believe that whatever disease runs in their family is likely to affect them too. But this is not necessarily true. Just because we inherit certain genes that are associated with disease does not mean they will express as our own disease.

Here is your most transformational selfcommitment ever. Allow yourself to think only loving, compassionate thoughts about yourself. Now that you realize all the cells in your body are responding to your thoughts, it’s time to stop the self-criticism. Love yourself unconditionally.

Instead, contemplate being able to control which genes are expressed by taking control of your environment, and mainly your thoughts.

Put another way, the expression of your personal energy will be influenced by the energy that surrounds you and the energy that comes from your mind.

Need scientific proof ? Epigenetics research has revealed that your life and health are undeniably determined by your perceptions and personal beliefs.

If you are willing to walk this path of unconditional self-love, you will undeniably make better lifestyle choices. You will always do what is best for yourself. You will change your life.

For your nightstand, I recommend these must-reads: • The Biology Of Belief by Bruce Lipton • Dying To Be Me by Anita Moorjani

Minding Your Money and Your Wellness in 2020

CR BIZ

by Rick Philps

Costa Rica’s Legal System: ROMAN CIVIL LAW

DOING BUSINESS RIGHT

L

ike the judicial systems used primarily throughout the countries of Latin America and continental western Europe, Costa Rica has adopted a Roman (Napoleonic) civil law system.

This is very different from English common law, the dominant legal system in Canada, the United States, the U.K., and British Commonwealth countries.

Roman civil law overview

Having law degrees from both British Columbia, Canada and Costa Rica, under both the English common law and Roman civil law systems respectively — and having practiced law for a considerable time in both jurisdictions — I believe I am uniquely qualified to comment on the differences from an academic and a practical perspective.

This emphasis on form over substance complicates the delivery of legal services.

It generally contributes to significantly longer periods of time required to complete any given legal task, and increases the legal costs accordingly.

The civil law system is significantly more formal in its requirements than the common law system, with much more documentation required to achieve similar legal results. In many cases, the form of a document becomes as important as the substance of the document.

English common law overview Common law jurisdictions have adopted a much more functional and logical approach to performing legal functions. A good example is the simple granting of a power of attorney.

In a common law jurisdiction, this can be accomplished by signing a selfdrafted, one-page letter granting a power of attorney to a specified party, with the letter signed by the party granting and the signature witnessed.

In a civil law jurisdiction, the granting of the power of attorney must occur by a public deed, printed in a notary public’s public deed book. It is signed by the party granting the power of attorney before the notary. Depending on the scope of the power of attorney granted, it may be registered in the National Registry, for the power of attorney to be given legal effect.

In the common law system, legal case digests are compiled, which trial lawyers refer to at great length in preparing their own cases. The purpose is to present cases of a like nature for the court’s consideration and persuasion in deciding the case at bar.

In the common law system, a judge is bound to follow the case decisions of a higher court that have a direct relationship of fact and law to the case at bar. Precedent cases of a court of equal standing can be held to be persuasive in deciding a case at bar. Taken together, these considerations create a “common thread” of legal jurisprudence. This allows the law to evolve through future court decisions to reflect the changing norms of a society.

Striking legal system differences

This jurisprudence — or judge-made law — produces a significant legal influence on presiding judges in reaching a decision on the case before them. It plays as much a part in deciding the case as any statute in the common law system.

The most striking differences between the two different legal systems relate to legal case precedents — judge-made laws.

In the civil law system, they carry little or no weight with the court in deciding future cases involving like facts and applicable law.

In civil law, no such similar binding consideration of precedent court cases, or jurisprudence, exists. The law is codified as to subject matters. Judges are free to interpret the facts in any given case before them with respect to any applicable code article.

CR BIZ

The only court decisions made in Costa Rica that are binding on the courts below, are those of the Supreme, or Constitutional Court (Sala IV).

My opinion In my opinion, going to court in Costa Rica, or other civil law jurisdictions, is much more uncertain. No predetermination of the court’s possible ruling in any given case is able to be researched with any certainty by the lawyers involved. There is no body of binding jurisprudence to consult.

This results in an open and virtually unrestricted consideration of any case presented to the court by the presiding judge. It can also allow for extraneous considerations to enter into the decisionmaking process, other than those of a strictly legal nature.

Any civilized society requires a system of laws and regulations for governance and to provide a mechanism for settling disputes between citizens. The question remains: under which judicial system are you more likely to find justice in the settlement of such disputes?

DOING BUSINESS RIGHT

The most striking difference between the two different legal systems relate to legal case precedents — judge-made laws.

business video

Click

CR BIZ

Buying Real Estate in Costa Rica:

by Ivan Granados

THE BASICS

PART II: TAXES

N

ow that the international borders have reopened, the real estate market in Costa Rica is starting to heat up. Our last LegalEase article in the May 2021 Howler issue focused on the basics of making a real estate purchase in paradise. This month we take a look at the required taxes. Buying real estate in Costa Rica has many variations from what is common in the U.S., Canada and other “home countries.” These articles are meant to provide a basic overview.

Required Taxes 1. Real estate tax and garbage collection fee Property taxes are 0.25% of the purchase price or registered value, whichever is greater. The garbage collection fee is USD $200 per year.

These taxes are payable to the municipality where the property is registered, either a year in advance or quarterly. The due date for the first quarter is March 31 each year.

LEAGAL EASE

2. Home luxury tax The home luxury tax only applies to houses, condos, or apartments over a certain construction value, which is adjusted each year. The current minimum amount for 2021 is ¢133,000,000 or USD $240,000.

The due date is January 15 each year.

In addition to paying the tax annually, the applicable homeowners must fill out the form called ‘Formulario Único de Inscripción, Declaración y Pago Impuesto Solidario para el Fortalecimiento de Programas de Vivienda, Law #8683, every three years. The next assessment date for submitting this form will be in 2022.

3. Annual corporate tax Law 9428: Tax over legal entities applies to owners of properties registered to a corporation. The tax amount is fixed for inactive corporations — currently USD $120. A progressive rate applies to active corporations, depending on their gross income, the current maximum being USD $380. These amounts are adjusted each year.

January 31 is the annual corporate tax due date.

4. Capital gains tax Law 9635 established a capital gains tax of 15%, which applies to all investment income and real estate.

A capital gain arises from the difference between the value of an asset at the time of purchase and the asset’s value at the time of sale. If there is a gain — in other words, the value is positive — this amount should be subject to a 15% tax.

Purchase price + value of the investments and improvements made — the sales value X 15% = capital gains tax payable The law provides three exceptions to the required 15% capital gains tax.

Casa Sol Alta Vista Photo courtesy of Tres Amigos Realty

The home luxury tax only applies to houses, condos, or apartments over a certain construction value.

CR BIZ

• A one-time exemption for property owners who owned property before the law came into effect on July 1, 2019. For this one-time exemption, the seller will pay 2.25% on the gross sale price.

Selling price X 2.25% = capital gains tax to be paid • The sale of the primary residence/home is, and will always remain, exempt from capital gains. For these purposes, according to the law, the “primary residence is the property whose primary purpose is to serve as the shelter, protection and home in which the owners reside.”

• However, if the property is owned by a foreign corporation and/or person who does not have a domicile in Costa Rica, known as a “non-domiciled person,” the law requires that the BUYER hold back 2.5% of the purchase and sale price of the property to ensure that any capital gains tax is covered and paid.

Selling price X 2.5% = holdback for capital gains tax to be paid

LEAGAL EASE

Costa Rican corporations (either a SA or an SRL) duly registered with the National Registry are considered “domiciled” in Costa Rica as long as their legal domicile (domicilio social) or place of business (domicilio fiscal) is within Costa Rica.

The sale of commercial or investment real estate will be subject to pay the capital gains and submit the proper tax form, D-162, to comply with the law.

This form must be filed and paid by the seller before the first 15 natural calendar days of the month following the purchase execution date.

We are available for your real estate questions.

Please feel free to contact us at info@gmattorneyscr. com

HM HOWLER MAGAZINE | 29

CR BIZ

GLOBAL WELLNESS

DAY Happy June to all of you!

This month’s Entrepreneur CR article is dedicated to an extraordinary worldwide celebration: Global Wellness Day. My most important reason for doing so is to let Howler readers know that Global Wellness Day is being celebrated here in Costa Rica … woohoo! I’m thrilled, because having good health must be a priority on everyone’s agenda today.

ENTREPRENEUR CR

Let's start from the beginning. What is Global Wellness Day (GWD)?

GWD is a non-profit organization founded

by Belgin Aksoy in Turkey in 2012. The vision was to make one full day of complimentary wellness activities accessible to anyone in the world. This annual event is celebrated on the second Saturday of every June. Its purpose is to make people ask themselves, "How can I live a healthier and better life?"

My second important reason for choosing this Howler article topic is that I am more than pleased to be part of the Global Wellness Day Costa Rica in 2021. Yes! This is huge for me. I’m excited to share this as part of my mission to provide every possible tool for helping you develop a healthy business and lifestyle.

by Joanna Blanco

One Day Can Change Your Whole Life

Costa Rica’s GWD Ambassador is Laura Barrantes Requeno, an entrepreneur who has dedicated 21 years to working in the tourism sector. In recent years, Laura has become particularly committed to wellness tourism, and is the founder of the Costa Rica Tourism Association of Wellness.

Mark your calendar Saturday, June 12 is the important date to mark on your calendar. Laura has built a team to promote strong participation in GWD Costa Rica as a show of support to the rest of the world.

One way that GWD encourages people to adopt a healthier lifestyle is through the GWD 7-Step Manifesto. These simple steps to follow are: • Walk for an hour • Drink more water • Don't use plastic bottles • Eat healthy food • Do a good deed • Have a family dinner with your loved ones • Sleep at 10 pm

The third reason I choose to talk about this in my monthly Howler article relates to the global pandemic. I believe we can all fight it together by creating and sustaining healthy habits to help prevent diseases.

So, with no more to say about myself, I encourage you to choose one of the seven GWD Manifesto's steps — perhaps one that seems relatively easy for you — and start practising.

I became an integrative nutrition coach because I suffered from gastritis since I was young — in my 20s. I knew deep inside that there must be more reasons than my eating habits to cause this impact on my health. And yes, in the middle of my coaching training, I realized that emotional states could be part of a disease progression, and more than 50 % of its cause. Now I am able to handle my stress, anxiety and other potential factors to avoid developing a health issue. It is sometimes a little tricky, but not impossible!

If you want to participate with us in Global Wellness Day Costa Rica, please contact me!

We will be very happy to have more people sharing their healthy living tools to increase awareness and support the wider GWD community.

Follow Global Wellness Day Costa Rica on Instagram Contact me any time: joannablanco@vivesattva.com and follow me on Instagram

Stay healthy and safe!!!

“One day, can change your whole life!”

Turkey's Gift to the World

June 12th 2021, Saturday Global Wellness Day, launched in 2012 in Turkey with the mission to live well, is now a special day celebrated on the 2nd Saturday of June every year in 7 continents and 150 countries around the world.

7

Continents

150

Countries

Sleep at 10:00 PM.

Walk for an hour.

Have a family dinner with your loved ones.

Drink more water.

Don’t use plastic bottles.

Do a good deed.

Eat healthy food.

/globalwellnessday /wellness_day /globalwellnessday

“One day, can change your whole life!”

Use code HOWLER2021 for DISCOUNT!

RE/MAX OCEAN SURF & SUN

Buying or selling a home? Find a RE/MAX Agent In Playa Tamarindo since 1999. Sales of condominiums, homes, lots, fincas and businesses.

Playa Tamarindo Monday to Saturday, 9-5 2653-0073 ~ 866.976.8898 www.remax-oceansurf-cr.com

Visit us Today!

USE DISCOUNT CODE

HOWLER