Archive for December, 2005

Arenal Most Active Volcano

Saturday, December 31st, 2005

OVISCORI (Costa Rican Volcanic and Seismic Observatory) announced that Arenal was the most active volcano in Costa Rica in 2005.  Although it registered its lowest level of activity since it became active in the 1960s

Last Chance to Pay Marchamo

Saturday, December 31st, 2005

There is still time to pay your Marchamo, you have until 8 pm January 31st to pay in the Servimas locations nationwide.  Most banks are closed today, but some insurance agents may be open: Find a place near you that may be open
If you don’t pay today and are stopped after midnight the transit police […]

CAFTA Delayed by US to at Least February

Saturday, December 31st, 2005

The US announced yesterday that the CAFTA treaty would not go into effect January 1st as agreed by the ratifying countries.  Most of the Central American countries that have ratified the agreement, must also pass additional legistlation to comply with the terms of the treaty.  Particularly legistlation regarding intellectual property rights and customs. 

Saprissa “Wins” Title

Saturday, December 31st, 2005

Although the "Guerreros del Sur" gave it their best shot, the tradition won out in the end and Saprissa claimed their title at home in a penalty shootout.  Perez Zeledon took the lead in the 26th minute on a goal by Kenny Cunningham.  They were able to hold the lead until literally the last minute, […]

Happy New Year

Saturday, December 31st, 2005

It has been a very busy week. It seems the holidays are always hectic, no matter where you go, or what you try to do. Tasi, my daughter, arrived 3 hours late, and we talked until 3 am. Up at 6 to come home for Christmas. Tasi couldn’t sleep in the car as she usually […]

Tourist Alert: Coyol Wine in Season in Nicoya

Thursday, December 29th, 2005

If you want to try a traditional treat, and are visiting Nicoya here is your opportunity.  Head to the towns of Santa Cruz and Nicoya and look out for palm frond stands where they sell Coyol Wine.  The wine is "milked" from the trunk of a tree grown locally.  You can choose from the strong, […]

Turtle Protection Disputed in Caletas Beach

Thursday, December 29th, 2005

Environmental organizations are being ordered to abandon the 50 meter public zone by the city of Nandayure.  The groups are in a camp, protecting turtle nests on the beach, but the city claims that no structures may be built in the public 50 meters of the maritime zone.
The camp is operated by PRETOMA, and […]

Strongest Quake of Year Shakes Things Up

Thursday, December 29th, 2005

Yesterday at 9:28 am, the strongest quake of the year shook up the country. The epicenter was inland, about 30 km northwest of Quepos.  No injuries or fatalities were reported, and only minor damages to buildings and roads, although those who were sleeping in to recover from holiday festivities were woken up. 

Perez 1 - Saprissa 1

Thursday, December 29th, 2005

Last night the table was set for a winner take all match on Friday to determine the national champion.  The Saprissa "B" squad opened the scoring in the 40th minute with a spinning strike by Gerald Drummond.  Perez substitute Bill Gonzalez saved the series for the Southern Warriors with a score in the 68th minute.  […]

Illegal Logging Drops Under Satellite Control

Wednesday, December 28th, 2005

The National Forestry Office reports that illegal logging has dropped significantly in Costa Rica in the last 3 years. In 2001 35% of the wood used in the country was brought out of forests illegally.  In 2004 the rate was 15%. 
Juan José Jiménez, Coordinator for the Strategic Control of Illegal Logging for SINAC (National […]