Retiring in Costa Rica: A Paradise Found

 

By Silvanna Pacheco, October 23rd, 2024

Costa Rica, a tropical gem nestled in Central America, has long been a haven for retirees seeking a more relaxed and affordable lifestyle. Its stunning natural beauty, friendly locals, and favorable climate make it an irresistible choice for those looking to embrace a new chapter in their lives.

Discover the Untouched Beauty of Drake Bay, Costa Rica

 

By Silvanna Pacheco, October 9th, 2024

Drake Bay is located on the Osa Peninsula in Costa Rica, a remote and enchanting destination with incredible biodiversity, pristine beaches, abundant rainforests, and exceptional wildlife encounters. Named after the legendary explorer Sir Francis Drake, it offers a unique experience for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers.


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Top 5 Costa Rican Coffee Destinations

 

By Silvanna Pacheco, September 20th, 2024

Though Costa Rica’s coffee production may be smaller than Colombia’s or Honduras’s, its coffee stands out for its exceptional quality. This Central American gem, blessed with diverse microclimates and rich volcanic soil, provides the ideal conditions for cultivating coffee beans with unique and captivating flavor profiles. We have put together the Top 5 destinations to experience Costa Rica’s finest coffee and culture:

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A Journey Through Alajuela: Where History Meets Nature.

By Silvanna Pacheco, September 3rd, 2024

The air starts filling up with the sound of drums coming from afar; school children fine tuning for the big parade. Every September 15th since 1821, Costa Rica commemorates its independence from Spain. This is a day filled with national pride and celebration. Some common traditions include cultural events with music and dance held throughout the country. Flags are raised in schools, government buildings, and public squares to symbolize the country’s freedom. Families enjoy the holiday with outdoor gatherings to celebrate the day with loved ones.

Alajuela played a pivotal role in Costa Rica’s independence movement. Many of the country’s founding fathers hailed from this province, and it was a center of resistance against Spanish colonial rule. Today, Alajuela continues to celebrate its historical significance through local events and traditions.

Alajuela Province.

Juan Santamaria, a native of Alajuela, is revered as a national hero for his courageous act during the Second Battle of Rivas in 1858. His sacrifice, which involved setting fire to a fortified building occupied by the enemy, was a turning point in Costa Rica’s defense against foreign invasion.

Juan Santamaria Monument, Alajuela.

In honor of his heroism, a statue of Juan Santamaría stands proudly in the main park of Alajuela. The statue depicts him holding a torch, symbolizing his courageous act. The park is a popular tourist destination and a place where locals gather to commemorate his bravery and contributions to Costa Rican history.

Alajuela Central Park.

Besides a rich history, Alajuela offers a stunning blend of natural beauty, with volcanoes like Poas Volcano, one of Costa Rica’s most active volcanoes offering breathtaking views of its crater lake and fumaroles; and Arenal Volcano, renowned for its symmetrical cone and frequent eruptions.

Poas Volcano, Alajuela.

La Paz Waterfall Gardens, located only a few minutes from the Poas Volcano, is a must-see attraction known for its stunning waterfalls, wildlife sanctuary, and lush rainforest trails.

At La Paz Waterfall Gardens, Alajuela.

When you visit Alajuela you can appreciate the beautiful colonial architecture, including churches, museums, and plazas. Explore the vibrant local markets to find handicrafts, fresh produce, and traditional souvenirs.

Juan Santamaria History Museum.

Alajuela’s proximity to Juan Santamaria International Airport makes it a convenient starting point for your Costa Rican adventure. The city offers a variety of accommodations, including the luxurious Xandari Resort with panoramic views of the Central Valley.

Xandari Resort, Alajuela.

By choosing Alajuela as your base, you’ll have the opportunity to discover a side of Costa Rica that many tourists miss. 

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Follow the Cacao Trail – Travel to the Caribbean Coast of Costa Rica

By Silvanna Pacheco, August 10, 2024

Costa Rica’s Caribbean coast, with its lush rainforest and fertile volcanic soil, provides an ideal environment for cacao cultivation. This region has a rich history with chocolate, making it a captivating destination for those interested in the bean-to-bar process.

Caribeans Chocolate Tour.

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A Morning Cup Of Nature: Treat Yourself Monteverde Style.

By Silvanna Pacheco, July 9, 2024

Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve is located in the northern part of Puntarenas, Costa Rica. This region is a top tourist destination boasting an unparalleled biodiversity, with over 400 species of birds, 120 species of mammals and countless insects and amphibians calling it home. Just about 3 hours away from both, the Liberia and the Alajuela International Airports, Monteverde is a “must add” to your itinerary.

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A Greener Future For Costa Rica.

By Silvanna Pacheco, June 23rd, 2024

As of April 20th, Costa Rica has banned single-use plastics, making a big stride towards protecting its pristine environment.

The new law prohibits the commercialization and free delivery of single-use plastic straws and plastic bags. It also prohibits new acquisitions or purchases of single-use plastic articles by all public administration institutions, public companies, and municipalities. Additionally, importers, producers, marketers, and distributors of single-use plastic bottles, or products packaged in such bottles, must meet specific requirements.

Photo: Zdenek Machacek

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Sustainable Travel to Costa Rica.

 

By Silvanna Pacheco, May 20, 2024

Costa Rica isn’t just a destination; it is a philosophy. In Costa Rica, sustainability is a way of life rather than a trend.  This tiny Central American nation boasts almost 6% of the world’s biodiversity, all while generating nearly 93% of its electricity from renewable sources.  


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Exploring Costa Rica During the Rainy Season.

By Silvanna Pacheco, May 13th, 2024

Costa Rica offers an unforgettable experience year-round, but the rainy season or “Green Season” is a gem for nature enthusiasts. The rain transforms Costa Rica into a vibrant spectacle. The rainforest becomes an even more verdant paradise, with waterfalls overflowing and nature bursting with life. Animals emerge from their shelters, making it an ideal time for wildlife lovers to spot everything from colorful toucans to jaguars.

Central Pacific Region.

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