HAPPY HOLIDAYS

One of the real joys of the Holiday Season is the opportunity to say Thank You and wish you the very best for the New Year.


I and my team personally extend you our best wishes for a Happy Holiday season and New Year of joy, peace, happiness and prosperity, and look forward to serving you in the coming year.

Best regards,

JOHN P WILSON

Costa Ricans Eating Schedules:

Costa Ricans usually have breakfast, lunch, dinner, and two coffee breaks. The serving size of each meal is moderate.

A breakfast of coffee or agua dulce (pure sugar cane diluted in hot water), accompanied by rice and beans, known as gallo pinto, toast or tortillas, fried cheese, and eggs is common. Cereal is popular too (usually corn flakes with milk and sugar to taste.)

People typically have coffee with French bread and butter for a morning coffee break.

For lunch or dinner, Ticos enjoy casados, a serving of picadillo with rice, beans, and fried plantain, olla de carne, papas con chorizo, steak, or any other main dish listed in our recipes with a refreshment (frsh fruit drink, soda or coffee)

Coffee and a pastry or small empanada is norm for an afternoon coffee break.

Costa Rican Cuisine

Costa Rican food is a fusion cuisine. It combines elements of culinary traditions from Africa, Italy, France, China, and Spain, flavored by traditional grains (rice, corn, and beans), roots (cassava, taro roots, sweet potatoes), spices (coriander, garlic, annatto, saffron, parsley, oregano, thyme, nutmeg, salt, and pepper), oils (olive oil, vegetable oil, and lard), sauces (Lizano, Soy, and Worcestershire), fresh fruit, and vegetables. The food is mild to slightly seasoned.

The most common dishes that reflect the rural culture and are typically served in traditional restaurants are gallo pinto (translates to spotted rooster) and casados (translates to married).

Gallo pinto consists of rice and beans seasoned with coriander, onions and Worcestershire sauce usually served for breakfast with scrambled or fried eggs and a cup of agua dulce (pure sugar cane diluted in hot water) or coffee. Sour cream is a popular accompaniment to gallo pinto.

A casado consists of white rice, black or red beans served with pork, steak, or chicken, a small portion of cabbage/lettuce & tomato salad, and fried plantains. All is served in one dish for lunch or dinner with a fresh fruit drink or coffee.

Traditional food goes beyond gallo pinto and casados. You can delight yourself with more main dishes, drinks, tapas, and desserts. Popular main dishes are arroz guacho (sticky rice,) higado en salsa (beef liver salsa,) escaveche (chicken escaveche,) pozole, ceviche, arroz con pollo (chicken rice), papas con chorizo (chorizo sausage with potatoes,) frito (pork stew), olla de carne, barbudos (string bean omelet,) and mondongo (beef stomach soup).

Common refreshments are horchata (ground rice & cinnamon drink), pinolillo (corn cocoa drink,) or resbaladera (rice & barley drink.)

Common tapas are platanos maduros (fried ripe plantains), platanos asados (baked ripe plantains), pejibayes (peach palm), picadillo de chayote con elote (minced vegetable pear with corn), picadillo de papaya verde (minced green papaya), and picadillo de vainicas (minced string beans with beef.)

Common desserts are queque seco (orange pound cake), torta chilena, miel de chiverre (sweet white spaghetti squash), tres leches, arroz con leche (rice pudding,) dulce de leche, and suspiros (maringues.)

We give you the largest online Costa Rican Recipes collection free so you can prepare them at home to surprise your loved ones or to enjoy yourself. The recipes have not yet been fully tested, but the ingredients and methods described are as close as possible to how the webmasters mother cooks, and her food always is delicious.

The National Bird: The Yigüirro

The Yigüirro (Turdus grayi), also known as the clay-colored robin or gray thrush, was designated the national bird of Costa Rica in November, 1976.

Found throughout the country, the Yigüirro represents fertility of the earth and the richness of Costa Rican soil. The Yigüirro generally sings at the beginning of May and is a signal to farmers that the rainy season has begun.

The National Labor Symbol: The Oxcart

The Oxcart

The oxcart, designated National Labor Symbol on March 22, 1988, is a rustic strong vehicle with two compact wheels moved by two oxen. It can easily pass through muddy places, swamps, beaches, hills, curves, rocky mountains, and deep small rivers.

The oxcart integrated Costa Rica into international commerce by becoming the main means of export transportation after 1840. The first shipment of coffee to London was transported from the coffee plantations to Costa Rica's main ports by oxcart in 1843. Oxcarts transported coffee to Puntarenas on a small road between 1844 and 1846.

After World War II, the oxcart became obsolete due to new inventions. It has been used since then as an ornamental object although some farmers still use it during the coffee harvest season to carry coffee to processing plants in rural areas.

Painting oxcarts developed into a form of original Costa Rican art in the early 20th century. Cowherds decided to add life to oxcarts by hand-painting them with bright colors and geometrical figures. There are never two oxcarts painted the same. All of them contain changes in color tones and figures. This art has been passed from generation to generation up to the present time.

The painted oxcart has become a Costa Rican symbol throughout the world and has promoted economic development through the production of handicrafts in the Costa Rican cities of Sarchí and Puriscal.

Meaning:

Oxcarts portray the peaceful tradition of Costa Rica and the arduous and fervent labor of its people. They are perceived as a window to Costa Rica's optimistic vision of life, humility, patience, sacrifice, and endurance to pursue goals in a pacific and progressive manner.

Oxcarts are the vehicles that brought economic wealth and original art to Costa Rica. They represent the simplicity and aspirations of rural Cos

ta Rican people who in turn have become artisans willing to fulfill their destiny.

The Oxherd: ("El Boyero")

The oxherd, the person who guides the oxen, is a remarkable worker who played a role in the history of Costa Rica. Oxherds worked under the rain, the sun, in swamps, in mud, day and night, in their effort to bring exports to the main por

ts of Costa Rica.

The oxherds represent the unwavering will of Costa Rican people of the early 1900s, who pursued their goals and success with persistence,

a value that has proved essential for the development of democracy throughout the history of Costa Rica.

The National Tree - Guanacaste

General Information:

The "Guanacaste" (Enterolobium cyclocarpum), a native tree to Costa Rica, was designated the National Tree on August 31, 1959. It belongs to the legume family and the subfamily of the mimosas. It is found along the coasts of Central America as well as in Cuba and in the lowlands of the Antilles.

The Guanacaste Tree grows at sea level and up to 900 m. (2,952 ft.) Its height varies from 25 m. (82 ft.) to 50 m. (164 ft.) high. The diameter of its trunk is usually 2 m (6.6 ft.). It grows fast in low and sunny lands, especially in Guanacaste. It has a robust trunk, a broad spreading canopy and a beautiful overall appearance.

"Guanacaste" means "ear tree", named so since its compressed and curled seedpods look like ears. During March and April, the "vainas", its fruit, turn dark brown as it ripens and then falls. Its fruit generally carries between 10 and 22 seeds, which are commonly used in handicrafts. Its flower is white and rounded.

The Guanacaste's water-resistant wood is easy to work with. It is used in carpentry and ornamental crafts. The rich tannic bark is used as a cold medicine and coloring; the sap is used to relieve bronchitis. In the fields, it provides shade and food to cattle for they eat its branches, leaves, and fruit.

Its thick long branches grow horizontally. The tree not only supports and takes root on the soil, but also absorbs the surrounding soil forming bulky roots that spread around the surface.

Meaning:

The tree represents universal equilibrium and sacred creation, the renewal of one's faith on earth, the power of Mother Nature, the power of free choice given by God and the transient condition of human life on earth.

It is a symbol of stability and growth; it provides a better perception of the valleys and mountains and represents the growing pride of Costa Rican identity.

The strong and firm roots represent the attachment to life. Its hard trunk represents the will and the branches are the protectors of creative peace. The top of the tree is associated with spiritual consciousness.

The Purple Guaria

General Information:

The "Guaria Morada" (Cattleya skinneri ), an orchid, was designated the National Flower of Costa Rica on June 15, 1939. The Guaria Morada grows on trees, roofs, and buildings. It gets nutrients from the air, rain, dust, and residues stored on the trunk of trees. These plants use trees as a means of support, but they are not parasites. The orchid' flowers are large with fantastic shapes, amazing colors, and enchanting fragrances.

The most beautiful and numerous orchids are grown in tropical countries. They are an essential part of tradition and folklore. There are nearly 15,000 species around the world, one of the plants with the largest variety in the world.

Meaning:

The Guaria Morada has always been in Costa Rican homes for centuries. The "campesinos" cherish the flower for its beauty and they associate it with the beauty of Costa Rican ladies. It has given Costa Rican people an aesthetic sense for appreciating nature and pursuing its beauty.

According to Native Costa Rican traditions, the Guaria Morada brings fortune and good luck. It brings union and family understanding and channels the best cosmic experiences. It evokes peace and love as well as hope for the future. Its flower does not have a special fragrance because it is filled with dreams to be accomplished.

The Coats of Arms

The first coat of arms that was used in Costa Rica was the United Provinces of Central America. that was until 1848.

When Costa Rica formed part of the Central American Federation, they adapted the coat that was of the federation. From the 21st of April 1840, the coat of the Free State of Costa Rica was used, until the 20th of April of April 1842. Our present coat of arms was raised on the 29th of September, 1848. In 1964 the flag was modified to show seven stars that represented the seven provinces.

On the 5th of May of 1998 the official crest was established, preserving the clear green of the mountains, and the blue green of the volcanoes, the color of the sun like a rusty gold, and the dark green of the myrtle palms.

The stars would be silver and the ribbon, a light blue. In addition the smoke from the volcanoes was depicted.

The Visual Images

The national symbols of Costa Rica are the flag, the coat of arms, the anthem, the national flower, the card, the deer, the national tree and the national bird.

Our Flags
The first independent provincial flag was used to represent Costa Rica on the 10th of May, 1823. The second flag of the United Provinces of Central America was created on the 6th of March 1824 and was present until 1840. The third flag of the Free State of Costa Rica was created on the 21st of April, 1840 and was discredited after the separation of Costa Rica from the Central American Federation and the fourth flag was discredited during the administration of Doctor Jose Maria Castro Madriz, on the 29th of September, 1848. There have been some amendments, but it is basically the same flag that we use today.

The National Anthem of Costa Rica

Lyrics: Jose Maria Zeledon
Music: Manuel Maria Gutierrez
Adopted in 1903
Composed and adopted in 1852

Noble patria, tu hermosa bandera
expresión de tu vida nos da;
bajo el límpido azul de tu cielo
blanca y pura descansa la paz.

En la lucha tenaz,
de fecunda labor
que enrojece del hombre la faz,
conquistaron tus hijos
labriegos sencillos
eterno prestigio, estima y honor.

¡Salve, oh tierra gentil!
¡Salve, oh madre de amor!
Cuando alguno pretenda
tu gloria manchar,
verás a tu pueblo valiente y viril,
la tosca herramienta en arma trocar.

Salve oh Patria tú pródigo suelo,
dulce abrigo y sustento nos da;
bajo el límpido azul de tu cielo
¡vivan siempre el trabajo y la paz!

To hear click here:http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AM5FTFU6S8M&feature=related

The music for the National Anthem of Costa Rica was created during the government of Juan Rafael Mora, in 1852. The President of the Republic asked Manuel Maria Gutierrez to compose the music within three days. A competition was held in 1903 to choose the lyrics. The prize was won by Jose Maria Billo Zeledon, and since then these Lyrics have been the only ones sung as the National Anthem of Costa Rica. The lyrics where declared official on the 10th of June, 1949.

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The high season is coming!

The high season in Costa Rica runs from December through April.

The main attraction of traveling in the high season is the weather. It is less likely that it will rain on you, and in some areas (notably Guanacaste) the wildlife is concentrated near shrinking water sources and easier to spot. Obviously, another motivation for North American and European travelers is escaping the snow and cold at home. Not only is Costa Rica warm, but travelers from the north will be rewarded with an extra few hours of sunshine every day—at this latitude the days are longer.

The main problem with traveling to Costa Rica during the northern hemisphere winter is that it is the high season. It is harder to get reservations, everything is relatively crowded and the prices are higher.

From Christmas until the end of the first week in January, and Easter week are double jeopardy periods with lots of international travelers, and many Ticos traveling (the beaches are especially crowded).

Arenal Volcano National Park

Arenal volcano is the most spectacularly active in Costa Rica. Hotels in the region tout their views of the lava flows and red hot boulders ejected from the volcano glowing in the darkness. Although eruptions are the main attraction, you should be aware that even in the dry season the clouds sometimes obscure the top of the volcano, and your chances of seeing a pyroclastic display are lessened in the rainy season. Volcano watching is better than a fifty-fifty proposition, but you should plan on taking advantage of some of the other attractions in the area, and consider it a bonus if you see Arenal put on a huge display. These tips will also help you maximize your chances of seeing a big pyroclastic show.

The perfect cone is visible from most anywhere in the area, but if you want a good view of an eruption, your best bet is to stay in one of the "observatory" type lodges, and stay up late or get up with the sun. The clouds tend to move in soon after sunrise. There were hiking tours based out of La Fortuna de Arenal which used to take you up the west ridge to the the crater rim. Because of the number of people killed by ash, falling cinders and toxic fumes, this is no longer allowed. There are still plenty of hiking trails that get you as close as is advisable.

Chato volcano—this extinct volcano (last erupted a little over 5,000 years ago) has a lopsided crater that cradles a small lake and can be accessed by a hiking trail starting near the Arenal Observatory lodge.

Tax Incentives

This seems to be the one everyone loves! As mentioned earlier the Costa Rican government has created one of the most attractive investment environments in Latin America.

Capital Gains Tax= 0% in Costa Rica. The capital gains taxes are exempt for a business if the money is derived from an activity that is not the normal course of business for the company (This exemption is established through the use of SA, or Sociedad Anonima). Property Taxes in Costa Rica = .25%. This rate is significantly lower than most places in the world. As a result people are buying in Costa Rica which increases demand and ultimately increases value. There are not many places where you can buy a piece of property that has incredible appreciation potential with such low holding costs.


Corporate Tax: The Sociedad Anonima (S.A.)
These forms of corporate structures allow owners of property to keep their names away from the corporations they own (literally translates as “anonymous society”). Ninety percent of all property in Costa Rica is purchased through these S.A.’s. When a property owner purchases property through these S.A.’s they use a shareholder’s loan to fund the purchase. Rental income generated is taken out of the corporation as dividend income and deducted against the initial investment and thus no taxes are paid.

Income Tax: Only income generated in Costa Rica is subject to income tax
Costa Rica offers large amounts of income to be deductible and free from any tax

Proximity to Major U.S. Cities:

When investigating vacation destinations and environments for second homes or investment property, it is important to factor travel times to the destination. Costa Rica’s proximity to major US Cities gives even more reason why investors are buying property in Costa Rica. Great tourist destinations need to be close and easily accessible.

Major US Carriers offer direct flights to and from Costa Rica from the following international airports (3-5 hour flight times)

• Miami
• Houston
• Atlanta
• Dallas
• Chicago
• New York
• Los Angeles
• Toronto

Stable Currency

Investors want to know if their money is safe in Costa Rica.

Stability of the government has helped to maintain a solid and stable currency.

The Costa Rican colon, also denoted as CRC is the official currency of Costa Rica (Currently $1 USD = 557 CRC). Colones come in notes of 1,000 up to 10,000.
US Dollars are also accepted as legal tender in Costa Rica. Both are widely accepted and exchanged throughout the country with approximately 90% of the places of business in the country accepting the US Dollar.

Stable Government

Costa Rica is a democratic republic with three branches of government and has enjoyed one of the most democratic governments in Latin America. As of 1948, Costa Rica abolished it’s army and since 1949 has enjoyed its peaceful democratic existence, often being referred to as the “Switzerland of Central America”.

The government is one of the people and one that very much sees the value of tourism. Over the past few years the government has incentivized foreigners to come and retire in Costa Rica. Stable government ensures that the money you put into your property is safe. Political turmoil will never be a reason for illiquidity in your Costa Rican investment and also provides reason why Costa Rica is a great place to buy. There are many other locations around the world that investors think of to go and buy, but stability is very important and should play a huge factor in anyone’s investment decisions.

Excellent Lending market

Prior to 2006, there was no market for lending in Costa Rica and investors bought and sold property on a cash basis. With the recent surge by worldwide and US lenders as well as the strengthening of the Costa Rican market, financing at reasonable rates is now an available option. This addition to the real estate industry has made it possible for many more investors to buy property in Costa Rica and will only increase the demand over time.

As you can see there are many great reasons to invest in Costa Rica. Many people believe that it is too late to make any money. This is not the case! The time is now to invest in this beautiful country and incredible vacation spot.

How can I finance my property in Costa Rica?

There are two options available for financing home construction.

The first option is for the homebuyer to secure secondary financing (line of credit, second trust note) in their home country. This money, once deposited into escrow, will be held by Title Insurance by LandAmerica Commonwealth Title Of Central America® and will be released in accordance with a pre-defined fund release procedure.

The second option is for the buyer to secure completed home (or take out) financing . This option requires approval in advance by the builder and would require deposits to be made to the escrow account by the buyer during the construction of the home. At the opening of escrow, application is made by the buyer to secure financing against the home once the house is complete. At home completion, the balance owed the developer would be paid and the buyer ends up with a mortgage in Costa Rica for the house.

Banks & Money

There is an ample selection of state owned and privately held banks in San Jose, and throughout the country. The official currency of Costa Rica is the colon; however US dollars are widely accepted. US dollars and traveler's checks can be changed in banks and hotels. Most major credit cards are widely accepted, and cash advances can be obtained at banks around the country and a variety of places throughout San Jose.

Economy

You don't have to drive very far in Costa Rica -- past the coffee, pastures, bananas, and other crops -- to realize that agriculture is the basis of its economy. Coffee has historically been the country's most important crop, and Costa Rica continues to produce some of the finest coffee in the world. However in recent years less traditional crops have been playing an increasingly important economic role. Bananas are the second most important export crop, with vast plantations covering parts of the Caribbean lowlands. There is also significant land dedicated to the cultivation of pineapples, sugar, oranges, rice, hardwoods, and ornamental plants, as well as raising cattle for beef and dairy products.

Though agriculture remains the basis of the national economy, tourism has earned more than any single export crop during the last few years and the tourism industry continues to grow providing new employment opportunities and stimulating the conservation of our complex biodiversity.

Museums in Costa Rica

Costa Rica museums have inherited a rich and diverse cultural heritage, tangible and intangible, whose purpose is to display and educate present and future generations about our past and present.

The most notable collections include gold, jade, pre-Colombian ceramics and stone pieces, colonial religious art, contemporary art, and natural history.

Costa Rica possesses an important group of museums dedicated to collecting, preserving, and displaying the cultural heritage, and imparting our values. They are located throughout the country and uphold the legacy, which reflects the contributions of the indigenous, Afro-Costa Rican, Asian, European, and Central American populations.

The museums go beyond just collecting, by categorizing and searching for meaning of the past and the present in a didactic way. This allows Costa Ricans to face the future with a sense of identity, community, importance and a complete concept of sustainable human development. In addition, it gives foreign visitors a first-hand look at the towns of yesterday and today that make up our country.

At the end of the last century, a movement arose among some towns to have their own museums. This number of towns has increased.

These are known as community museums and reflect the will of the communities to recover, preserve, share, and communicate the importance of their cultural aspects, whether they be traditions, customs, or local folklore.

These museums have arisen in small towns with a large cultural mix and a rich history and that have shown their commitment to recovery, revitalization and sharing of their traditions, as well as the improvement in the quality of life of its inhabitants.

The most notable community museums are the Abangares Mines museum, the Indigenous Boruca museum, and the Chortega Ceramics museum in San Vicente, Nicoya. These museums are educational, respresentative, and integrating tools within the community, with the goal that the cultural and natural heritage of the local area be respected, valued, and admired as a product of social history to be shared with visitors.