Real - Blogs - Tripatini2024-03-29T08:50:07Zhttps://tripatini.com/profiles/blogs/feed/tag/Real5 Tips to Help You Choose Where to Buy a Vacation Home in Costa Ricahttps://tripatini.com/profiles/blogs/5-tips-to-help-you-choose-where-to-buy-a-vacation-home-in-costa2016-02-24T18:06:59.000Z2016-02-24T18:06:59.000ZShannon Farleyhttps://tripatini.com/members/ShannonFarley<div><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9009037466,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img width="750" class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9009037466,original{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="9009037466?profile=original" /></a>You have decided to <a href="http://www.enchanting-costarica.com/costa-rica-real-estate/is-it-a-good-time-to-buy-real-estate-in-costa-rica/" target="_blank">move to Costa Rica</a>, or at least <b>buy a vacation home</b> in one of the world’s most popular places for living abroad.</p><p>How do you choose where is the best place to buy a home in Costa Rica?</p><p><b>The five most important things to consider</b> are: lifestyle, climate and geography, infrastructure, community, and pricing. Your best strategy is to rent a place for a few months to see how you like living in that area.</p><p>1. Think about <b>what kind of lifestyle are you looking for</b>? What are your hobbies? Do you want a quiet rural or beach life, or do you need the hustle and bustle of a big town or city? </p><p>2. Costa Rica has many diverse regions and microclimates, but for the most part you can boil down <b><a href="http://www.atenasrealestate.cr/index.php/articles/163-does-atenas-costa-rica-have-the-best-climate" target="_blank">Costa Rica climate</a> and geography</b> to:</p><ul><li>Beaches – North, Central and South Pacific Coast, and the Caribbean</li><li>Mountains</li><li>Lake Arenal and Volcano Arenal</li><li>Steamy lowland jungle in the southern Pacific region – basically from Dominical south</li><li>The Central Valley highlands</li></ul><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9009037691,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9009037691,original{{/staticFileLink}}" width="500" alt="9009037691?profile=original" /></a></p><p><b>Expect heat at the beach</b>, no matter which coast. Costa Rica is between 9 and 11 degrees north of the equator, and the beaches are HOT! On average, temperatures are about 90+ F with humidity. Air-conditioning is available, but can easily run $400 or more per month. Costa Rica’s beaches, however, really are spectacular, as are the sunsets.</p><p><b>To get cooler, you have to go up in elevation</b>. In the <b>mountains</b>, you can find daytime temperatures in the low 70's, with nights around 40-60 F. However, there are often more clouds and rain in the mountains. The <b>Central Valley</b> is the most moderate, with daytime temperatures varying from 60 to 80 F, and 50 to 65 at night, depending on the time of year. This is why the capital city of San Jose and most of the population of Costa Rica are located here.</p><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9009038061,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9009038061,original{{/staticFileLink}}" width="640" alt="9009038061?profile=original" /></a>3. <b>Infrastructure</b> is crucial in Costa Rica: <b>quality medical and health care facilities</b>, international airports, good roads, services, and entertainment like restaurants, theaters, cultural performances and shopping. If these are high on your list of priorities, then you want to be in the Central Valley. </p><p>4. There are many large <b>foreign resident communities</b> around Costa Rica – in the North Pacific, Central Pacific, Caribbean, and especially in the Central Valley. <b>Quality education</b> and many private, bilingual schools are easily found in the Central Valley.</p><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9009038475,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img width="750" class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9009038475,original{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="9009038475?profile=original" /></a>5. If you want to live at the beach, expect to pay higher prices for a home. The Central Valley has a wide range of affordable real estate. <b>In <a href="http://www.atenasrealestate.cr/" target="_blank">Atenas, Costa Rica</a></b>, a 2,100-square-foot, three-bedroom, two-bath, furnished home on a half-acre lot with a pool and views, and even a car included, is listed at <a href="http://www.atenasrealestate.cr/prices-300k-400k/item/192-well-maintained-pool-home-with-wonderful-views-atenas-costa-rica.html" target="_blank">$350,000</a>.</p><p><b>Atenas</b> is not only a top place for international living, but also a fun vacation destination for its <b>ideal location in the western Central Valley</b>, halfway between San José and Pacific Coast beaches. Atenas is close to the San Jose/Juan Santamaría International Airport, top public and private health care facilities, and has easy access to major highways.</p><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9009038694,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9009038694,original{{/staticFileLink}}" width="600" alt="9009038694?profile=original" /></a>For more information about Atenas, check out the <a href="http://www.atenasrealestate.cr/articles/193-all-you-ever-wanted-to-know-about-atenas-costa-rica.html" target="_blank">Guide to Living in Atenas, Costa Rica</a> and the list of <a href="http://www.enchanting-costarica.com/activities/guide-restaurants-atenas-costa-rica/" target="_blank">restaurants in Atenas</a> from Atenas real estate agency <b><a href="http://www.atenasrealestate.cr/index.php/about-us" target="_blank">Pure Life Development of Atenas</a>.</b></p><p><b><i>Article by Shannon Farley</i></b></p></div>Christmas 2015 activities in Atenas, Costa Ricahttps://tripatini.com/profiles/blogs/christmas-2015-activities-in-atenas-costa-rica2015-12-08T00:20:05.000Z2015-12-08T00:20:05.000ZShannon Farleyhttps://tripatini.com/members/ShannonFarley<div><p><b><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9009013683,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9009013683,original{{/staticFileLink}}" width="667" alt="9009013683?profile=original" /></a>Christmas season in Costa Rica</b> is here! There is a lot going on, so get your Santa hat and merry spirit ready, and let the rhythm of Christmas in Latin America dash you away!</p><p> </p><p><b>Christmas in Costa Rica is a fun time</b> of Christmas parades, festivals, traditional performances and concerts, and family events.</p><p> </p><p><a href="http://www.enchanting-costarica.com/costa-rica-2/atenas-costa-rica-celebrates-147-years-community-tranquility/" target="_blank">Atenas, Costa Rica</a> will hold its <b>annual Christmas Fair the weekend of Dec. 11, 12 and 13</b> in the town’s central park. It will be a weekend full of music, dance, theatrical performances, storytelling, a crafts fair and traditional foods, all culminating in the big <b>Christmas Parade of Lights (<i>Festival de la Luz</i>) on Sunday, Dec. 13</b>.</p><p> </p><p><b><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9009013286,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9009013286,original{{/staticFileLink}}" width="640" alt="9009013286?profile=original" /></a>Atenas events begin at 12:00 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 11</b>. There will be artisans selling their crafts for Christmas, traditional foods, and music and dance going on all weekend in the park. <b>Highlights include</b>: a parade of huge puppets and a percussion marching band, called a <b><i>Cimarrona con mascaradas</i></b> from 2:00 to 3:00 p.m. on Dec. 11; a live concert with dancing from 7:00 to 10:00 p.m. on Dec. 11; a <b>Christmas choral presentation</b> from 7:00 to 8:00 p.m., followed by a live concert from 8:00 to 11:00 p.m. on Dec. 12; storytelling, live music and dance performances from 2:00 to 6:00 p.m. on Dec. 13; and the very fun <b>Parade of Lights with marching bands, dancers and other entertainers</b> from 6:00 to 9:00 p.m. on Dec. 13, followed by a live concert and fireworks show.</p><p> </p><p><b>In Costa Rica’s capital city of San José</b>, holiday season kicks into full cheer with the <b>country’s biggest <a href="http://www.festivaldelaluz.cr/" target="_blank">Parade of Lights</a> (<a href="https://www.facebook.com/Festival-de-la-Luz-202652021255/" target="_blank">Festival de la Luz</a>) on Saturday, Dec. 12</b>. This year is the 20<sup>th</sup> anniversary. It gets <b>started at 6:00 p.m.</b> at the La Sabana Park with hundreds of marching bands from all over the country, horse-mounted groups, entertainers and brilliantly-lit floats performing their way down the Paseo Colon Boulevard to Second Avenue, finishing at the Cultural Plaza. One million or so persons converge on San José to attend the parade, showing up early in the day to claim their place on the sidewalk; the energy is electric with so many spectators. You can also watch the parade on national TV stations.</p><p> </p><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9009014088,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img width="650" class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9009014088,original{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="9009014088?profile=original" /></a>If you are still in town the day after Christmas, the famous <b>San José Horse Parade</b>, or “<i>Tope</i>” is a fantastic Costa Rica cultural event to see. Thousands of horses and riders from all parts of Costa Rica will prance down Paseo Colon Boulevard to La Sabana Park from 12:00 to 6:00 p.m. on <b>Dec. 26</b>.</p><p> </p><p><a href="http://www.enchanting-costarica.com/costa-rica-2/best-sources-information-atenas-costa-rica/" target="_blank">ABOUT ATENAS, COSTA RICA</a></p><p> </p><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008998887,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008998887,original{{/staticFileLink}}" width="640" alt="9008998887?profile=original" /></a>The small country town of Atenas, Costa Rica is not only known as a <a href="http://www.enchanting-costarica.com/destinations/retired-living-good-life-atenas-costa-rica/" target="_blank">best place to retire internationally</a>, but also a fun vacation destination for its ideal location halfway between San José and the Central Pacific Coast. Contact <a href="http://www.atenasrealestate.cr/index.php/about-us" target="_blank">Atenas Costa Rica realtors</a> Dennis Easters and Gerardo Porras Gonzalez at <a href="http://www.atenasrealestate.cr/" target="_blank">Pure Life Development of Atenas</a> for <b><a href="http://www.atenasrealestate.cr/index.php/costa-rica-vacation-rentals" target="_blank">Costa Rica vacation rentals</a>, <a href="http://www.atenasrealestate.cr/index.php/costa-rica-homes-for-rental-and-sale" target="_blank">Atenas homes for sale</a></b> and <b>Costa Rica properties for sale</b>.</p><p> </p><p>For more information about Atenas, check out the <a href="http://www.atenasrealestate.cr/articles/193-all-you-ever-wanted-to-know-about-atenas-costa-rica.html" target="_blank">Guide to Living in Atenas, Costa Rica</a> and the recent list of <a href="http://www.enchanting-costarica.com/activities/guide-restaurants-atenas-costa-rica/" target="_blank">restaurants in Atenas</a>.</p><p> </p><p><b><i>Article by Shannon Farley</i></b></p></div>What if you left stressful living and escaped to a tropical paradise?https://tripatini.com/profiles/blogs/what-if-you-left-stressful-living-and-escaped-to-a-tropical2015-10-16T22:40:18.000Z2015-10-16T22:40:18.000ZShannon Farleyhttps://tripatini.com/members/ShannonFarley<div><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008997471,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008997471,original{{/staticFileLink}}" width="640" alt="9008997471?profile=original" /></a>Have you ever been driving down the highway in totally stop-and-go rush hour traffic, and thought, “Why the <i>(bleep)</i> am I doing this?”</p><p>It just took 10 minutes to go 2 miles. And this is nothing unusual. It’s every day – to work, home from work ….</p><p>Know what I’m talking about?</p><p>You have deadlines to meet, things that have to get done, places to be, and you’re already late. There’s that question that nags at you, subtly, persistently … “Is my life worth this stress?”</p><p>Then you think: <strong>“What if I just chucked it all and escaped to some tropical paradise?”</strong></p><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008998266,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img width="650" class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008998266,original{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="9008998266?profile=original" /></a>A lot of people would say, yes, I’m out of here! There’s a reason the online <a href="http://internationalliving.com/" target="_blank">International Living magazine</a> is so popular.</p><p>The country of <b>Costa Rica has been targeting overworked and overstressed Americans</b> for the past year with its tourism campaign <b>“<a href="http://www.savetheamericans.org/" target="_blank">Save the Americans</a>”</b>, a spin-off of saving animals. A funny <b>advertising video of Costa Rican animals</b> singing to save humans aired on U.S. television and in movie theaters, and billboard ads appeared in subways and on busy urban streets. <b>In Los Angeles last month</b>, <b>huge banners featuring Costa Rican sloths</b> with phrases like “Cubicle. Cage. What’s the difference?” and “Follow me to freedom”, were hung outside windows of tall office buildings to get the attention of workers “trapped” inside.</p><p><br /> <iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/YM4kdy39ZIY?wmode=opaque" frameborder="0"></iframe></p><p>“Save the Americans was created by the animals of Costa Rica to help save overworked Americans. Forced to work long hours in stressful environments, increasingly estranged from their natural habitat, the American worker grows more endangered every day. As resident animals of Costa Rica, we happily offer our country as sanctuary,” states the Costa Rican Tourism Board’s website.</p><p>The recently released <strong><a href="http://level33entertainment.com/After_Words.html" target="_blank">Hollywood movie “After Words”</a></strong><strong>, that was</strong> <strong>filmed in Costa Rica</strong><strong>, also explores leaving city stress for a tropical vacation destination.</strong></p><p><strong><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008998883,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img width="650" class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008998883,original{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="9008998883?profile=original" /></a>In “<a href="http://www.enchanting-costarica.com/costa-rica-2/after-words-movie-filmed-at-portasol-living-in-costa-rica/" target="_blank">After Words</a>” (released Aug. 21, 2015),</strong> Oscar- and Tony-winning actress <a href="http://www.imdb.com/name/nm0001315/" target="_blank">Marcia Gay Harden</a> (known for her roles in the films Fifty Shades of Grey and Mystic River) portrays a highly introverted librarian, Jane, who loses her job in Los Angeles due to budget cuts. While Jane slides into depression and considers suicide, she finds a book about Costa Rica whose images inspire her to take an end-of-life-journey to “see something beautiful before she dies”. In Costa Rica, she meets a charismatic young tour guide named Juan, played by Spanish actor <a href="http://www.imdb.com/name/nm1049982/" target="_blank">Oscar Jaenada Catalan</a>, who won a Goya Award for his role in “Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides” (2011) and also starred in “Cantinflas” (2014). Together, they embark on an adventure around the many sights of Costa Rica, and eventually fall in love. Whether Jane “ends it all” in paradise or not is a surprise ending.</p><p><br /> <iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/HZF1X_mYl80?wmode=opaque" frameborder="0"></iframe></p><p>Written by Joel Silverman and produced and directed by Juan Feldman, the romantic drama reflects on the <b>stresses of city living in the USA</b> and the search for freedom of spirit and a <b>better lifestyle in another country</b>.</p><p>“The film is really positive about Costa Rica. As a matter of fact, it ties in with the Costa Rican Tourism Board’s campaign of ‘Save the Americans’, all about <b>working too much and not enjoying life</b>,” commented Guillermo Piedra Gonzalez, general director of <b>Costa Rica eco-development</b> <a href="http://portasol.cr/en/" target="_blank">Portasol Rainforest & Ocean View Living</a>, where “After Words” filmed part of the movie.</p><p>“After Words” was filmed mostly in Costa Rica at Portasol Living, on the Pacific Coast at Manuel Antonio, and on the Caribbean Coast.</p><p><b><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008998697,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008998697,original{{/staticFileLink}}" width="640" alt="9008998697?profile=original" /></a>Moving to Costa Rica</b></p><p>Costa Rica is a really popular destination both for retirees and people looking for a calmer, quieter, less stressful lifestyle. According to the <b><a href="http://internationalliving.com/2015/01/the-best-places-to-retire-2015/" target="_blank">2015 International Living Retirement Index</a>,</b> Costa Rica is one of the <b>top five</b> <b>best places in the world to retire.</b> Younger people, many with families, are moving to the Central American country for more freedom, lower living expenses and less stress.</p><p> </p><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008936271,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008936271,original{{/staticFileLink}}" width="640" alt="9008936271?profile=original" /></a>A lot of people who are not quite ready to leave the U.S. just yet <b><a href="http://www.enchanting-costarica.com/destinations/want-unique-eco-community-costa-rica-property-investment/" target="_blank">invest in real estate in Costa Rica</a> for vacation homes</b> or <a href="http://www.portasol.cr/en/news-blog/183-why-choose-portasol-for-your-costa-rica-vacation-destination.html" target="_blank">Costa Rica vacation rentals</a>.</p><p>A good place for <a href="http://www.portasol.cr/en/properties/costa-rica-property-management.html" target="_blank">Costa Rica property investment</a> is <b><a href="http://portasol.cr/en/" target="_blank">Portasol Rainforest & Ocean View Living</a>.</b> Located on 1,335 acres of <b>pure rainforest on <a href="http://www.portasol.cr/en/location/project-location.html" target="_blank">Costa Rica’s Central Pacific Coast</a></b>, Portasol Rainforest & Ocean View Living is close to the renowned <a href="http://www.portasol.cr/en/location/national-parks.html" target="_blank">Manuel Antonio National Park</a> and beaches, the popular surf town of <b>Dominical</b>, and remarkable <a href="http://www.portasol.cr/en/news-blog/198-costa-rica-whale-dolphin-festival-2015-starts-in-september.html" target="_blank">whale-watching</a> in the <b>Ballena Marine National Park</b>. Ten minutes away are <a href="http://www.portasol.cr/en/news-blog/170-discover-portasol-s-hidden-beach-playa-linda.html" target="_blank">beautiful unpopulated tropical beaches</a>.</p><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008963452,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img width="650" class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008963452,original{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="9008963452?profile=original" /></a>You can live at the <b>unique, <a href="http://www.portasol.cr/en/community/responsability.html" target="_blank">sustainable eco-community</a></b> – either buying one of their <b><a href="http://www.portasol.cr/en/ocean-view-home-for-sale-in-costa-rica-real-estate.html" target="_blank">Costa Rica homes for sale</a>,</b> or a <a href="http://www.portasol.cr/en/properties/costa-rica-land-for-sale.html" target="_blank">Costa Rica property for sale</a> and build your own dream home.</p><p>Not looking to invest, but definitely <b>need to get away from it all on vacation</b>? Portasol offers <a href="http://www.portasol.cr/en/lodging/costa-rica-vacation-homes-for-rent-casa-de-paz.html" target="_blank">vacation accommodation in Costa Rica</a> in rainforest bungalows or vacation home rentals.</p><p><a href="https://www.facebook.com/portasol/" target="_blank">Contact Portasol</a> for your escape to unstressed life.</p><p><b><i><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008909093,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008909093,original{{/staticFileLink}}" width="600" alt="9008909093?profile=original" /></a>Article by Shannon Farley</i></b></p></div>15 tips to prepare your home for rainy season in Costa Ricahttps://tripatini.com/profiles/blogs/15-tips-to-prepare-your-home-for-rainy-season-in-costa-rica2015-06-05T18:37:20.000Z2015-06-05T18:37:20.000ZShannon Farleyhttps://tripatini.com/members/ShannonFarley<div><p><b>Rainy season in Costa Rica is here</b>, and with it, changes in weather and the environment that can <b>potentially wreak havoc on your home in Costa Rica</b> if you’re not prepared. These <b>15 simple tips from <a href="http://www.atenasrealestate.cr/index.php/about-us" target="_blank">Atenas, Costa Rica realtors</a> <a href="http://www.atenasrealestate.cr/" target="_blank">Pure Life Development</a></b> will help you stay <b>safe, dry and protected</b> this time of year.</p><p> </p><p><b>Clean your roof gutters.</b> Dry season winds have probably blown a lot of leaves, dirt and debris into your roof gutters. If you don’t clean them thoroughly, the first big rain could cause an overflow, leading to roof damage, leaks, or breaking your gutters.<br /> <br /><b>Clean your ground drainage gutters.</b> Rain in Costa Rica can range from soft steadily falling drizzle to torrential “the-end-of-the-world-is-near” downpours. You want to make sure all run-off is being diverted away from your house and not going to cause flooding.<br /> <br /><b>Trim those trees hanging over your roof.</b> Wind and the extra weight of water from rain can cause limbs to break, which could damage your roof or parked car.<br /> <br /><b>Fix your roof leaks.</b> After the first hard rains, you’ll know if you have any roof leaks. Get them fixed as soon as possible so they don’t expand and become an even bigger problem.<br /> <br /><b>Clean slippery surfaces.</b> The increase of humidity causes mildew to grow. To avoid dangerous slips and falls on your driveway and pathways to your house, wash them regularly with a power washer to take off any green slime. You can also sprinkle lime powder (calcium hydroxide – called “<i>cal</i>” in Costa Rica) to kill off the mildew.<br /> <br /><b>Paint, varnish and seal.</b> Protect the outdoor surfaces of your home from inclement weather. Use anti-corrosive paint for metal gates and railings; and varnish to seal wood.<br /> <br /><b>Buy battery back-ups.</b> You will want to connect all of your fragile electronics – flat screen TV, DVD player, computer, iPod or iPad, high-tech cappuccino maker, etc. – to UPS battery back-ups with surge protection, or at the very least a surge protection powerstrip. Lightning storms and electrical outages are as common in Costa Rica as rice and beans. If a lightning storm is happening close to where you live, it’s better to unplug everything for complete protection until the storm passes.<br /> <br /><b>Remember your pets.</b> Have a safe and dry place for your pets to go during rain storms.<br /> <br /><b>Watch your pool PH.</b> Extra rain and the acid in rain (Costa Rica is a volcanic country) can throw off your pool’s PH, causing the water to turn green. During rainy season, check your pool’s PH frequently and consult with your pool supplies store for help.<br /> <br /><b>Fumigate around your house.</b> When the rains bring Costa Rica back to life that includes the millions of insects that seem to hatch overnight. Fumigating around the perimeter of your home (natural or otherwise) will help keep the critters out of your living space. There also are many <a href="http://www.ehow.com/how_6718650_kill-leaf-cutter-ants.html" target="_blank">natural remedies for controlling the leaf cutter ants</a> that like to voraciously destroy your garden this time of year.<br /> <br /><b>Avoid dengue fever.</b> Make sure not to have any standing water in your garden or around your property (buckets, unused flower pot plates, etc.) to avoid breeding places for mosquitoes, which can carry dengue fever in Costa Rica.<br /> <br /><b>Turn off irrigation systems.</b> If you have irrigation systems on timers, you can turn them off during rainy season to avoid wasting water.<br /> <br /><b>Bring in the garden furniture.</b> Outdoor patio furniture and cushions are best brought in under cover to not get ruined by excess moisture.<br /> <br /><b>Buy rain gear.</b> New <b>door mats</b> help keep your floors clean. Having an <b>umbrella stand</b> by the front door keeps track of your <b>umbrellas</b> so you always have one when you need one. Owning a pair of <b>rubber boots</b> in Costa Rica is a must. <br /> <br /><b>Use a dehumidifier.</b> A great method of battling humidity is to use a commercial dehumidifier or <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Goldenrod-725721-P-GoldenRod-Original-Dehumidifier/dp/B00DBTCFGY" target="_blank">GoldenRod dehumidifiers</a> in closets. Or if you have air-conditioning, run it an hour a day to remove moisture.</p><p><b> </b></p><p><a href="http://www.enchanting-costarica.com/destinations/retired-living-good-life-atenas-costa-rica/" target="_blank">LIVE IN ATENAS, COSTA RICA</a></p><p> </p><p>In beautiful <b><a href="http://www.atenasrealestate.cr/index.php/articles/163-does-atenas-costa-rica-have-the-best-climate" target="_blank">Atenas, Costa Rica</a>,</b> <b>Pure Life Development of Atenas</b> specializes in <b><a href="http://www.atenasrealestate.cr/index.php/costa-rica-homes-for-rental-and-sale" target="_blank">Atenas homes for sale</a>, <a href="http://www.atenasrealestate.cr/index.php/costa-rica-land-and-farms-for-sale" target="_blank">Costa Rica properties for sale</a></b> and <strong><a href="http://www.atenasrealestate.cr/index.php/costa-rica-vacation-rentals" target="_blank">Costa Rica vacation rentals</a></strong>. See this <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mXPnmOFV_ls" target="_blank">video</a> for an idea of what it would be like to <a href="http://www.atenasrealestate.cr/index.php/articles/162-making-atenas-costa-rica-your-new-home" target="_blank">live in Atenas, Costa Rica</a> or to visit on vacation.</p><p> </p><p><b><i>Article by Shannon Farley</i></b></p></div>Keeping a Healthy Lifestyle on the Big Islandhttps://tripatini.com/profiles/blogs/keeping-a-healthy-lifestyle-on-the-big-island2018-02-28T06:52:08.000Z2018-02-28T06:52:08.000ZLeo Aranashttps://tripatini.com/members/LeoAranas<div><p>With a culture and an environment that promotes wellness, oneness with nature, harmony, and love of community, Big Island, Hawaii is the best place for pursuing a healthy lifestyle.</p><p>Here, residents can find a lot of opportunities to grow and nourish their mind and body.Together with their family and friends, they can take on different recreational activities that abound in any of its neighborhoods, and some of them are as follows:</p><p>Golf, spa, and watersports in Hualalai. The best golf, spa, and watersports amenities are the trademarks of the Hualalai Resort. Available exclusively to Hualalai Club members is the Jack Nicklaus course, while Hualalai real estate property owners have direct access to the newer Tom Weiskopf golf course, the Canoe Club, and the brand new Ke’olu Clubhouse. The community also features eight tennis courts, two gyms with state-of-the-art equipment, a lap pool, and a world-class spa. After a tiring day, residents can then savor healthy seafood choices in some of Big Island’s best restaurants, including the Beach Tree Bar and Grill and The Hualalai Grille by Alan Wong.</p><p>Kuki’o Outdoor Pursuits. Kukio, the crown jewel of the Kona Coast, is the first private golf and beach club of Hawaii. It offers not only stunning oceanfront views, but also a unique Hawaiian experience through its exclusive Outdoor Pursuits and Mauka Fitness programs. Some of the most popular activities are outrigger canoe sailing and paddling, swimming with dolphins, bike expeditions, hikes to a black-sand beach, surfing, and ocean and land fitness training. The program is also known for offering the only Tom Fazio-designed golf course, which affords guests panoramic views of the coastline. For relaxation and pampering, the Beach Club is also home to a beautiful bar and indoor/outdoor spa.</p><p>Surf and sun at Kohanaiki. Dubbed the beach lover’s paradise, Kohanaiki boasts of about 1.5 miles of pristine beachfront and the world-famous sport fishing grounds of “Ono Lane.” Here, members can enjoy surfing, scuba dividing, and deep-sea fishing. To take physical wellness to the next level, members should not miss the unique cross-training course called “Kohanaiki Fit” designed by Tracy Lee, which features a series of challenges to sculpt and tone the body. After a day of running, stretching, and moving around, people can easily unwind at the luxurious Shay Zak-designed beach club.</p><p>A stroll at the <a href="https://www.luxurybigisland.com/areas/waikoloa-resort/" target="_blank">Waikoloa Resort</a>. The Big Island also has the perfect spots for those who simply want to stroll, play, and relax. Built to capture the beauty of the Anaeho’omalu Bay, the Waikoloa Resort features two championship golf courses, historic sites, topnotch spas, and the King’s and Queen’s shops for dining and entertainment.</p><p>Get in touch with us today, if you are in search of a community that values wellness and peace of mind, in the beautiful paradise that is Big Island. With the help of our team here at <a href="https://www.luxurybigisland.com/" target="_blank">Luxury Big Island</a>, we will be happy to help you find your home in Hawaii.</p></div>It’s easy to buy rainforest property in Costa Rica, a top country for retirementhttps://tripatini.com/profiles/blogs/it-s-easy-to-buy-rainforest-property-in-costa-rica-the-best2016-03-19T21:06:05.000Z2016-03-19T21:06:05.000ZShannon Farleyhttps://tripatini.com/members/ShannonFarley<div><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9009043485,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9009043485,original{{/staticFileLink}}" width="473" alt="9009043485?profile=original" /></a>Once again, the Central American nation of <b>Costa Rica is the</b> <strong><a href="http://internationalliving.com/2016/01/the-best-places-to-retire-2016/" target="_blank">best country to retire</a></strong>, according to the 2016 Best Countries rankings. And Costa Rica is a top option for a <a href="http://www.usnews.com/news/best-countries/best-comfortable-retirement" target="_blank">healthy, comfortable retirement</a> as stated in <i>International Living’s</i> Annual Global Retirement Index.</p><p>A lot of people from other countries <a href="http://www.enchanting-costarica.com/destinations/want-unique-eco-community-costa-rica-property-investment/" target="_blank">invest in real estate in Costa Rica</a> for retirement homes, vacation homes or Costa Rica vacation rentals.</p><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008963874,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008963874,original{{/staticFileLink}}" width="640" alt="9008963874?profile=original" /></a>Where to live in Costa Rica? Location, location, location is always the key. Costa Rica’s two main attractions are the rainforest and its beaches. The extraordinary eco-development of <a href="http://portasol.cr/en/" target="_blank">Portasol Rainforest & Ocean View Living</a> offers the best of both worlds on <a href="http://www.portasol.cr/en/location/project-location.html" target="_blank">Costa Rica’s Central Pacific Coast</a>.</p><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9009028867,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img width="650" class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9009028867,original{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="9009028867?profile=original" /></a>Set on a 1,335-acre <a href="http://www.portasol.cr/en/inside-portasol/bio-reserve.html" target="_blank">private reserve of pure rainforest</a>, Portasol Living is 10 minutes from beautiful, sparsely populated tropical beaches. The eco-development is positioned between <a href="http://www.portasol.cr/en/location/national-parks.html" target="_blank">Manuel Antonio National Park</a> and the southern Pacific with surfing hotspot <b>Dominical</b> and remarkable <b><a href="http://www.portasol.cr/en/news-blog/198-costa-rica-whale-dolphin-festival-2015-starts-in-september.html" target="_blank">whale-watching</a> in the Ballena Marine National Park</b>. Manuel Antonio was named a best beach in the world, second best beach in Central America and No. 1 in Costa Rica, in the <a href="http://www.tripadvisor.com/TravelersChoice-Beaches" target="_blank">2016 Travelers’ Choice Awards</a> by Trip Advisor.</p><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9296612282,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img width="650" class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9296612282,original{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="9296612282?profile=original" /></a></p><p></p><p>You’re ready to buy and build your dream home in Costa Rica. What do you need to do to buy property in Costa Rica?</p><p><b>10 Easy Steps to <a href="http://www.portasol.cr/en/properties/costa-rica-property-management.html" target="_blank">Buy Rainforest Property in Costa Rica</a> at Portasol Living</b></p><ol start="1"><li><b><a href="http://www.portasol.cr/en/properties/costa-rica-land-for-sale.html" target="_blank">Choose your property</a>.</b> Portasol Living is being developed in phases; there are currently 56 lots developed with a total of 180 planned. Lots range in size from 1.2 acres up to 11 acres at prices between $46,000 and $300,000; each has road access, water, satellite TV, telephone and electricity supplied to the property line. Features include: ocean and mountain views, mature rainforest, river or creek boundaries, and access to trails and public areas. Portasol also has existing <a href="http://www.portasol.cr/en/ocean-view-home-for-sale-in-costa-rica-real-estate.html" target="_blank">homes available for re-sale</a>.<a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008979491,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008979491,original{{/staticFileLink}}" width="640" alt="9008979491?profile=original" /></a></li><li><b>Sign a Purchase Agreement.</b> Once you choose your property and learn Portasol’s regulations, you need to sign a Purchase Agreement and pay a down payment of between 20% and 40%.</li><li><b>Due diligence</b> takes 30 to 60 days to check with the national registry and ensure all is in order legally with the property.</li><li><b>Financing</b> is available for Portasol lots (but not re-sale homes). Portasol Living offers a 40% down payment and an owner-financed mortgage up to 10 years. The loan percentage varies depending on the mortgage length.</li><li><b>Sign final documents and pay.</b> Meet at the lawyer’s office to sign the title documents, and either pay the balance due or sign the mortgage documents. You will have arranged a wire transfer from your bank to an “escrow” account. Then it’s yours!</li><li><b>New property owner responsibilities</b>: As a new owner, you must take care of your annual property taxes, and pay a $100 monthly maintenance fee that is managed by the Portasol development and owners’ association.<a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9009044701,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img width="650" class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9009044701,original{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="9009044701?profile=original" /></a></li><li><b>Meet with an architect.</b> Portasol will connect new property owners with an architect to <a href="http://www.portasol.cr/en/properties/design-construction.html" target="_blank">design an eco-friendly home</a> that meets the community’s building regulations. Being a sustainable gated community, Portasol Living protects 83% of its total land as green space. Community rules state that 15% of each property lot may be used for construction and the remaining space is to be preserved naturally.</li><li><b>Get building plans approved</b>. Once you have your architectural plans, they need to be reviewed and approved by the Portasol Commission for Construction Projects (COSUPROCO).</li><li><b>Building permits.</b> Portasol staff can help you go to the local municipality to get the necessary building permits.</li><li><b>Hire a building contractor.</b> The architect and Portasol staff can recommend building contractors. Average building time is 9 to 12 months after receiving permits, depending on the size of the home and luxury details.</li></ol><p> </p><p><b><i>Article by Shannon Farley</i></b></p></div>Model eco-community spotlights Costa Rica for sustainable developmenthttps://tripatini.com/profiles/blogs/model-eco-community-spotlights-costa-rica-for-sustainable2013-09-25T03:36:07.000Z2013-09-25T03:36:07.000ZShannon Farleyhttps://tripatini.com/members/ShannonFarley<div><p style="text-align:justify;">Normally, you don’t see tough, radical <strong>conservationists</strong> attending lectures by <strong>land developers</strong>. But there they were, 100 strong, from the <a title="Nature Conservancy" href="http://www.nature.org/" target="_blank">Nature Conservancy</a>, and the <a title="International Union for Conservation of Nature" href="http://www.iucn.org/" target="_blank">International Union for Conservation of Nature</a> (IUCN), and from all over Latin America – all raptly listening to <strong>how land development can actually preserve forests</strong>.</p><p style="text-align:justify;">Nervous before his formidable audience, Guillermo Piedra Gonzalez explained how his small <strong>residential development in the tiny country of <a class="zem_slink" title="Costa Rica" href="http://maps.google.com/maps?ll=9.93333333333,-84.0833333333&spn=10.0,10.0&q=9.93333333333,-84.0833333333%20(Costa%20Rica)&t=h" target="_blank">Costa Rica</a></strong> is carving out a niche for <strong>sustainable, socially responsible eco-communities</strong>, and leading the world in <strong>how to preserve and develop land</strong> at the same time.</p><p style="text-align:justify;"><a target="_blank" href="http://enchanting-costarica.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/Guillermo-Piedra-lecturing-on-Portasol-at-the-Latin-American-Congress-for-Private-Reserves.jpg"><img class="align-right" src="http://enchanting-costarica.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/Guillermo-Piedra-lecturing-on-Portasol-at-the-Latin-American-Congress-for-Private-Reserves-150x150.jpg?width=150" width="150" alt="Guillermo-Piedra-lecturing-on-Portasol-at-the-Latin-American-Congress-for-Private-Reserves-150x150.jpg?width=150" /></a>Piedra was speaking at the <strong>Tenth biennial <a title="Congress on Latin American Private Reserves and Indigenous Communities in Chile" href="http://www.asiconservachile.org/" target="_blank">Congress on Latin American Private Reserves and Indigenous</a> <a title="Congress on Latin American Private Reserves and Indigenous Communities in Chile" href="http://www.asiconservachile.org/" target="_blank">Communities</a></strong>, held in Valdivia, <strong>Chile</strong>, in August. More than 300 participants attended from nearly every country in the Americas.</p><p style="text-align:justify;">“I was really proud because I was the only land developer speaking about sustainable development,” said Piedra. “For me it was a challenge. Here I am a land developer and I was in front of an audience of tough, radical ‘green’ people, but I was received really well. They asked me questions and were really accepting.”</p><p style="text-align:justify;"><a target="_blank" href="http://enchanting-costarica.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/Costa-Rica-Private-Preserves-Association-logo.jpg"><img class="align-left" src="http://enchanting-costarica.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/Costa-Rica-Private-Preserves-Association-logo-150x150.jpg?width=150" width="150" alt="Costa-Rica-Private-Preserves-Association-logo-150x150.jpg?width=150" /></a>Piedra represented Costa Rica along with three countrymen, all board members of the <a title="Costa Rican Private Preserve Association" href="www.reservasprivadascr.org" target="_blank"><strong>Costa Rican Private Preserve Association</strong></a>. Piedra’s <strong>sustainable residential and vacation lodging</strong> community, <a title="Portasol Rainforest and Ocean View Community, Costa Rica" href="http://portasol.cr/en/" target="_blank"><strong>Portasol Rainforest & Oceanview Living</strong></a>, located in <strong>Costa Rica’s Central Pacific</strong> coastal region south of Manuel Antonio, maintains a <a title="Portasol private biological reserve in Costa Rica" href="http://portasol.cr/en/inside-portasol/bio-reserve.html" target="_blank"><strong>200-acre private reserve</strong></a> on the development’s 540 hectares (over 1,300 acres).</p><p style="text-align:justify;"><strong>Costa Rica protects close to 26% of its territory</strong> in national parks, private reserves and wildlife refuges. Most people think about land development as destroying the environment. Piedra believes <a title="Portasol master plan for eco-community in Costa Rica" href="http://portasol.cr/en/properties/master-plan.html" target="_blank"><strong>planned eco-communities</strong></a> such as his <strong>can be a profitable alternative for forest conservation</strong>.</p><p style="text-align:justify;">“There were a lot of people from big countries like Argentina, Chile and Brazil at the conference. People said they were really proud of what Costa Rica is doing for sustainable development, and that Costa Rica is a country to be followed. We were really proud that other Latin American nations are looking at us as a leader for conservation in the world,” commented Piedra.</p><p style="text-align:justify;">In fact, <strong>Costa Rica was chosen as the location for the 11<sup>th</sup> Latin American Private Reserves Congress in 2015</strong>.</p><p style="text-align:justify;"><a title="Portasol Rainforest and Ocean View Community, Costa Rica" href="http://portasol.cr/en/" target="_blank"><strong>Portasol Rainforest and Oceanview Living</strong></a></p><p style="text-align:justify;"><a target="_blank" href="http://enchanting-costarica.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/Guillermo-Piedra-Portasol-CEO-and-owner.jpg"><img class="align-right" src="http://enchanting-costarica.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/Guillermo-Piedra-Portasol-CEO-and-owner-150x150.jpg?width=150" width="150" alt="Guillermo-Piedra-Portasol-CEO-and-owner-150x150.jpg?width=150" /></a>One of the most striking and intriguing aspects about Guillermo Piedra is the stark contrasts in his life. A little more than 10 years ago, Piedra had a successful career as a high-powered businessman for one of the world’s largest apparel manufacturers, VF Corporation. He traded it all in 2002 for an open-air office in the rainforest creating a planned eco-community and nature preserve on the family farm. Moreover, the family farm was once a lucrative logging and timber business. After eight years of selective wood harvesting, Piedra’s father stopped cutting in 1982 and let the forest grow back.</p><p style="text-align:justify;">Fast forward to 2002, when Piedra visited the farm for the first time in 30 years, and that was when everything changed. <a target="_blank" href="http://enchanting-costarica.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/Cazuela-Waterfall-at-Portasol-Rainforest-Oceanview-Living.jpg"><img class="align-left" src="http://enchanting-costarica.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/Cazuela-Waterfall-at-Portasol-Rainforest-Oceanview-Living-300x224.jpg?width=300" width="300" alt="Cazuela-Waterfall-at-Portasol-Rainforest-Oceanview-Living-300x224.jpg?width=300" /></a>“When I saw the property with its river and waterfalls, it was an immediate ‘click’ for me,” remembered Piedra, who had come to translate a purchase offer from a potential foreign buyer. “The buyers wanted to do a large development and not preserve anything, and I decided that this land needed to be preserved. I saw a big opportunity to return to the Earth what we had taken from it with the lumber business, besides the importance of preserving the Earth for future generations.”</p><p style="text-align:justify;">The decision completely altered his and his family’s lives. The family immediately set aside <strong>200 acres of virgin forest for a private nature reserve</strong>. In 2004, they began developing the infrastructure and construction of the first homes. <strong>The property is a pristine valley with the Portalon River</strong> cascading and flowing through it, amid densely forested coastal mountains between the famous beach areas of <strong>Manuel Antonio and Dominical</strong>. Many of the planned lots in the development have spectacular ocean and coastal views.</p><p style="text-align:justify;"><a target="_blank" href="http://enchanting-costarica.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/Portasol-master-plan.jpg"><img class="align-right" src="http://enchanting-costarica.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/Portasol-master-plan-300x206.jpg?width=300" width="300" alt="Portasol-master-plan-300x206.jpg?width=300" /></a>So far, five phases have been developed on the estate, with <strong>40 out of 50 lots sold</strong>. Nine of those have houses built. Piedra said they plan soon to <strong>begin Phase Six with nine new lots for sale. <a title="Vacation lodging Costa Rica Central Pacific Coast" href="http://portasol.cr/en/lodging.html" target="_blank">Vacation lodging</a></strong> is available at several of the luxury homes and in tourist bungalows.</p><p style="text-align:justify;">Land development always has rules, but <strong>Portasol’s rules are to preserve</strong>. <strong>Land tracts are large</strong> – 5,000 sq. m (1.5 acres) to 10,000 sq. m (3 acres) – and <strong>buyers must leave 85% of their land untouched</strong>, only building on 15%. That rule alone means that about <strong>84% of the total land at Portasol will be conserved as rainforest</strong>. Other <a title="Services and infrastructure at Portasol Rainforest & Oceanview Living" href="http://portasol.cr/en/properties/services.html" target="_blank">development</a> rules govern water management, garbage collection and recycling, sewage treatment, the types of construction materials allowed, no fences around lots so that wildlife can move freely, using biodegradable cleaning products, soaps, etc.</p><p style="text-align:justify;">For Piedra, conservation has become his passion, which is having a ripple effect now in the world. “I am aware of what is going on worldwide with forests being destroyed, environmental damage happening, and I am probably going against the current, but I am trying to heal what others are doing to the planet,” Piedra asserted. “I love being at Portasol, surrounded by nature. I am so happy here. By preserving this, I want to share this happiness and wellness with everyone.”</p><p style="text-align:justify;"></p><p>Article by <a href="https://plus.google.com/u/0/104506194721250694108/posts">Shannon Farley</a></p></div>When your travels end with building your dream home in Costa Ricahttps://tripatini.com/profiles/blogs/when-your-travels-end-with-building-your-dream-home-in-costa-rica2016-01-24T19:32:54.000Z2016-01-24T19:32:54.000ZShannon Farleyhttps://tripatini.com/members/ShannonFarley<div><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9009015078,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9009015078,original{{/staticFileLink}}" width="640" alt="9009015078?profile=original" /></a>You’ve traveled to Costa Rica, fallen in love with the country, and bought a beautiful property to call home. Maybe you’re planning to <a href="http://www.enchanting-costarica.com/destinations/retired-living-good-life-atenas-costa-rica/" target="_blank">retire in Costa Rica</a> or simply have a <a href="http://www.enchanting-costarica.com/travel-tips/travel-trends-vacation-rentals-new-way-stay/" target="_blank">Costa Rica vacation home</a>. It's time to create your <a href="http://www.enchanting-costarica.com/costa-rica-real-estate/is-it-a-good-time-to-buy-real-estate-in-costa-rica/" target="_blank">dream home in Costa Rica</a>.</p><p></p><p><b><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008999884,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008999884,original{{/staticFileLink}}" width="640" alt="9008999884?profile=original" /></a>The beginning stage of construction is the time for planning</b> ahead for all of the features you would like in your new home – music system, alarm system, air-conditioning, appliances, aesthetic details, etc.</p><p><a href="http://www.enchanting-costarica.com/costa-rica-2/helpful-tropical-climate-tips-building-home-costa-rica/" target="_blank">Home construction in Costa Rica</a> is mostly solid concrete walls and floors. So, all of your <strong>electrical and plumbing planning</strong> has to be done in the <strong>beginning stages of construction</strong> when the conduits are being prepared. Even if you’re not sure you are going to want a certain feature, plan for it in the beginning so you’re prepared when you decide later that you do. Breaking concrete walls to install wiring or piping is not only labor intensive, it can be terribly expensive.</p><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9009015879,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img width="500" class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9009015879,original{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="9009015879?profile=original" /></a>In addition, <strong>if you’re moving from the United States, there are many features that you may be used to having in a home that are either not done in Costa Rica or not easy to find</strong>. You need to know this ahead of time so you can understand your home construction, and also in case you need to bring that hard-to-find element with you from the States.</p><p></p><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9009016099,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img width="150" class="align-right" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9009016099,original{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="9009016099?profile=original" /></a>1. For instance, if you’re from the USA, you are probably used to having a <b>garbage disposal</b> in your kitchen. However, until just recently, you couldn’t buy a garbage disposal in Costa Rica; they are now sold at EPA hardware stores. To be safe, if you want one in your new home, <b>bring what you need from the U.S.</b> But remember to <b>let your builder know</b> at the initial stage of your house construction so that the proper electrical wiring and plumbing are planned for and installed.</p><p>2. If you want a <b>high-tech or surround sound music system</b> in your house, or a <b>security alarm system</b>, make sure your builder knows at the outset to <b>plan for the wiring in the wall conduits</b>. Or, you will end up with wiring on the outside of your walls.</p><p>3. <a href="https://simple.wikipedia.org/wiki/GFCI" target="_blank">Ground fault circuit interrupters</a> (<b>GFCI</b>), or Residual Current Devices (RCD) – a common element in U.S. homes – are not found in Costa Rica. You will need to bring these with you from the U.S. if you want them in your home. A GFCI device is an electrical outlet that shuts off the electric power circuit when it detects that current is flowing along an unintended path, such as through water or a person, or there is a short circuit with an appliance.</p><p>4. <b>Water softeners</b> are not common practice either in Costa Rica. You will need to plan ahead for this because the systems are hard to get in Costa Rica.</p><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9009016673,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img width="200" class="align-left" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9009016673,original{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="9009016673?profile=original" /></a>5. It is <b>not common to have</b> <b>central heating or central air-conditioning systems</b> in homes in Costa Rica. Central heating – it’s the tropics; and if you live in a cold mountain area, plan for a wood-burning fireplace. Central air-conditioning is a specialty item that would have to be ordered by a specialty company. Wall unit air conditioners are the norm.</p><p>6. If you live in Costa Rica’s Central Valley, you <b>don’t want air-tight seals</b> on your doors and windows because it will interrupt the flow of breezes during the day and hot air going out at night when it cools down. You definitely <b>don’t want to trap heat or cold</b> in your house, <b>or trap humidity</b>. This is specific to Costa Rica’s Central Valley and mountain regions where people don’t often use air-conditioning since temperatures are cooler; as compared to the beach areas which need air-tight homes for efficient air-conditioning use.</p><p>7. Like the idea of a <b>decorative gas fireplace</b> in your Costa Rica mountain home? Think ahead and either specialty order it in Costa Rica or bring it from the States. They are hard to find here.</p><p>8. When choosing <b>lighting for your home</b>, choose lamps and lights that use common size light bulbs. Otherwise you’ll be searching for forever for that specialty light bulb to fit that funky imported lamp you bought.</p><p></p><p><a href="http://www.atenasrealestate.cr/index.php/costa-rica-homes-for-rental-and-sale" target="_blank"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008952687,original{{/staticFileLink}}" width="640" alt="9008952687?profile=original" />HOMES IN ATENAS, COSTA RICA</a></p><p><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mXPnmOFV_ls" target="_blank">Atenas, Costa Rica</a> is not only known as a <b>best place for international retirement</b>, but also a <b>fun vacation destination</b> for its ideal location halfway between the capital city of San José and Pacific Coast beaches. Contact <a href="http://www.atenasrealestate.cr/index.php/about-us" target="_blank">Atenas Costa Rica realtors</a> Dennis Easters and Gerardo Porras Gonzalez at <a href="http://www.atenasrealestate.cr/" target="_blank">Pure Life Development of Atenas</a> for your Atenas Costa Rica real estate needs.</p><p>For more information about Atenas, check out the <a href="http://www.atenasrealestate.cr/articles/193-all-you-ever-wanted-to-know-about-atenas-costa-rica.html" target="_blank">Guide to Living in Atenas, Costa Rica</a> and the recent list of <a href="http://www.enchanting-costarica.com/activities/guide-restaurants-atenas-costa-rica/" target="_blank">restaurants in Atenas</a>.</p><p></p><p><b><i>Article by Shannon Farley</i></b></p><p> </p></div>See the whales in Costa Rica in September and Octoberhttps://tripatini.com/profiles/blogs/see-the-whales-in-costa-rica-in-september-and-october2015-09-20T23:46:21.000Z2015-09-20T23:46:21.000ZShannon Farleyhttps://tripatini.com/members/ShannonFarley<div><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9009009653,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img width="650" class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9009009653,original{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="9009009653?profile=original" /></a>It is once again time for <b>whale watching in Costa Rica</b>!</p><p>The <b>2015 whale-watching season in Costa Rica</b> gets going every year in August and September in southern Costa Rica. In Uvita Beach, there is a <a href="http://www.festivaldeballenasydelfines.com/" target="_blank">Festival of Whales & Dolphins</a> every year in September. The annual festival marks the <b>peak of the annual migration of southern Pacific Humpback Whales to the <a href="http://www.costarica-nationalparks.com/ballenanationalmarinepark.html" target="_blank">Ballena National Marine Park</a> in Costa Rica</b>. </p><p>Less than an hour north of the Ballena National Marine Park, <a href="http://portasol.cr/en/" target="_blank">Portasol Rainforest & Ocean View Living</a> <b>eco-community</b> is offering a <a href="http://www.portasol.cr/en/activities/tours/190-whale-and-dolphin-watching.html" target="_blank">special promotion</a> during <b>Costa Rica whale watching season 2015</b>. Stay two nights at the <b>Costa Rica sustainable community</b>, with full breakfast included, and receive a <b>whale-watching tour for two persons with transportation</b> from Portasol to the Ballena National Marine Park. The tour also includes snorkeling and a visit to the Ventanas sea caves.</p><p><b><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9009009689,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img width="650" class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9009009689,original{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="9009009689?profile=original" /></a>Costa Rica provides an important</b> <b>sanctuary for <a href="http://www.enchantedlearning.com/subjects/whales/species/Humpbackwhale.shtml" target="_blank">endangered humpback whales</a></b> to breed and give birth. Southern Pacific humpback whales swim north from Antarctica as far as Costa Rica to the warm tropical waters of Golfo Dulce and the southern Pacific coast from <b>August to October</b>. Then later from <b>December to April,</b> northern Pacific humpback whales swim thousands of miles from Alaska to the shallow coastal waters of the <b>Ballena National Marine Park in southern Costa Rica</b>.</p><p>The Ballena (“whale”) National Marine Park covers 272 acres (110 hectares) of land and 13,280 acres (5,375 hectares) of ocean. It was created in 1989 as the <b>first marine park in Latin America,</b> and is a <b>vital refuge for marine life</b>, including pilot whales, false orca whales, sea turtles, and Pacific Spotted, Common and Bottlenose dolphins. The Ballena National Marine Park is <b>famous for its sandbar isthmus</b> formed perfectly into the <b>shape of a large whale’s tail</b>.</p><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9009010260,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9009010260,original{{/staticFileLink}}" width="525" alt="9009010260?profile=original" /></a>Biologists consider the protected area of the national park <b>a perfect spot between the northern and southern hemispheres for marine life</b> because it is located in what is known as the <b><a href="http://www.ipsnews.net/2014/10/protecting-biodiversity-in-costa-ricas-thermal-convection-dome-in-the-pacific/" target="_blank">Costa Rica Thermal Convection Dome</a>.</b> This large “bubble” of shallow, oxygen-rich warm water layered over the top of colder water with less oxygen creates an ideal habitat for marine life.</p><p> </p><p><b><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008963874,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008963874,original{{/staticFileLink}}" width="640" alt="9008963874?profile=original" /></a>About</b> <a href="http://portasol.cr/en/" target="_blank">Portasol Rainforest & Ocean View Living</a></p><p>Looking to <a href="http://www.enchanting-costarica.com/destinations/want-unique-eco-community-costa-rica-property-investment/" target="_blank">invest in real estate in Costa Rica</a> or enjoy a <a href="http://www.portasol.cr/en/news-blog/183-why-choose-portasol-for-your-costa-rica-vacation-destination.html" target="_blank">Costa Rica vacation rental</a> for your holiday? Visit the <b>unique eco-development of Portasol Rainforest & Ocean View Living</b> that appears in the new <a href="http://www.portasol.cr/en/news-blog/196-portasol-stars-in-new-hollywood-movie-after-words.html" target="_blank">Hollywood movie “After Words”</a>, with Marcia Gay Harden and Oscar Jaenada, that was filmed in Costa Rica.</p><p>Set on <b>1,335 acres</b> of pure wildlife-rich <b>rainforest on Costa Rica’s Central Pacific Coast</b>, Portasol’s location is ideal – between <b>Manuel Antonio National Park</b> and <b>the Ballena National Marine Park.</b> Portasol is close to uncrowded tropical beaches and top whitewater rafting rivers. Offering <b>Costa Rica property for sale</b> and unique <b>Costa Rica</b> <b>vacation rentals</b>, Portasol is a perfect place to stay while you explore the southern Pacific region of Costa Rica.</p><p> </p><p><b><i>Article by Shannon Farley</i></b></p></div>Helpful tips for building in Costa Rica’s tropical climatehttps://tripatini.com/profiles/blogs/helpful-tips-for-building-in-costa-rica-s-tropical-climate2015-10-22T19:35:09.000Z2015-10-22T19:35:09.000ZShannon Farleyhttps://tripatini.com/members/ShannonFarley<div><p><b><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9296607059,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9296607059,original{{/staticFileLink}}" width="640" alt="9296607059?profile=original" /></a>Building in Costa Rica</b> is very different from North America and most of Europe. Located between 9 and 11 degrees latitude above the equator, <b>Costa Rica’s tropical climate</b> comes with its own special considerations.</p><p>There are four constants in Costa Rica: <b>sun, rain, wind, and … more sun, rain and wind!</b> Unlike Northern Hemisphere homes designed for freeze-thaw cycles, <b>Costa Rica’s eternal tropical climate deals mostly with varying levels of humidity.</b> Then there is all of that <b>amazing tropical biodiversity</b> – think: termites, ants, beetles and millions of other insects. Of course, being bisected from top to bottom by a chain of volcanoes, and sitting on top of shifting tectonic plates makes for a great deal of <b>seismic activity</b>.</p><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008952687,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008952687,original{{/staticFileLink}}" width="640" alt="9008952687?profile=original" /></a></p><p>Here are some <b>top points for building a home in Costa Rica</b>. The country’s microclimates vary greatly depending on location; these tips are focused on the Central Valley area, specifically in <a href="http://costarica.com/atenas/" target="_blank">Atenas, Costa Rica</a>. Learn all about Atenas in this super handy <a href="http://www.atenasrealestate.cr/articles/193-all-you-ever-wanted-to-know-about-atenas-costa-rica.html" target="_blank">guide to living in Atenas</a> from Costa Rica realtors <a href="http://www.atenasrealestate.cr/" target="_blank">Pure Life Development of Atenas</a>.</p><p> </p><ul><li>Construction in Costa Rica typically uses cement cinder block, because it fares better with high humidity and reduces the risk of termite infestation compared to wood. Homes built mostly with wood also require higher maintenance with a humid climate.<a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9009000857,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img width="250" class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9009000857,original{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="9009000857?profile=original" /></a></li></ul><ul><li>Steel framing lasts longer than wood, but must be galvanized steel or have several coats of anti-corrosive lead paint.<a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9296607076,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img width="400" class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9296607076,original{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="9296607076?profile=original" /></a></li></ul><ul><li>No need for insulation or central heating. In hot tropical Costa Rica, you don’t want heat trapped in your house, and you definitely don’t need a heater! </li></ul><ul><li>Use drywall sparingly. High moisture levels in Costa Rica lead to mold with drywall. Interior finishes that withstand high humidity include high-gloss paint, concrete, stone, and treated hardwoods. However, add realtors Easters and Gonzalez, this is a tropical country, so mold will grow, period!</li></ul><ul><li>Ceramic tile floors keep your home cool, don’t suck up humidity like carpet, and are easy to clean.<a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9009001453,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img width="300" class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9009001453,original{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="9009001453?profile=original" /></a></li></ul><ul><li>Cross-ventilation for air flow is the key. Tropical homes use breezeways, French doors and lots of windows to keep air circulating for cooler temperatures and to evaporate moisture. Be sure to have screens and screen doors to prevent bugs from entering your home at dusk, and at the time of year right after the first rains when they suddenly populate by the millions. Houses also should include ceiling fans for additional cooling and air flow.<a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9009001674,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img width="500" class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9009001674,original{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="9009001674?profile=original" /></a></li></ul><ul><li>Cool your house with lots of shade. Extended roof eaves, wrap-around porches and plenty of plants create natural shade and are ideal for tropical living.<a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9009001871,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img width="500" class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9009001871,original{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="9009001871?profile=original" /></a></li></ul><ul><li>Swimming pools can be built with concrete and beautifully tiled – for a much lower cost than in the USA. Or the latest trend is pre-fabricated fiberglass pools, which are low-maintenance and flexible – perfect for a seismic country like Costa Rica.<a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9296606497,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img width="500" class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9296606497,original{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="9296606497?profile=original" /></a></li></ul><ul><li><a href="http://www.puravidasunsets.com/green-building/" target="_blank">Eco-construction options in Costa Rica</a>: use sustainable woods like teak; roof tiles made from recycled plastic banana bags that look like terracotta tiles; solar power and especially solar hot water heaters.<a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9009002691,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img width="500" class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9009002691,original{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="9009002691?profile=original" /></a></li></ul><ul><li>Traditional Costa Rican construction is solid. The foundation, walls and roof are all tied together with rebar and concrete with seismic plates for better stability. </li></ul><ul><li>Whole-house voltage surge protection is a valuable investment to prevent high-tech electronics and appliances from being easily damaged during electrical storms.</li></ul><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9009002486,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img width="600" class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9009002486,original{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="9009002486?profile=original" /></a></p><p><a href="http://www.atenasrealestate.cr/index.php/costa-rica-land-and-farms-for-sale" target="_blank">Build a custom home in Atenas, Costa Rica</a> </p><p>With an ideal location, <b>Atenas, Costa Rica</b> offers everything for a comfortable tropical life. Atenas is <b>located between the</b> <b>capital city of San Jose</b> and <b>Pacific Coast beaches</b>. Atenas claims it has the <b>“<a href="http://www.atenasrealestate.cr/index.php/articles/163-does-atenas-costa-rica-have-the-best-climate" target="_blank">Best Climate in the World</a>;”</b> while that may or may not be true, Atenas’ elevation from 2,200 to 4,000 feet and its many ridges and valleys give the town a <b>moderate climate</b>.</p><p><b><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9009003258,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img width="650" class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9009003258,original{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="9009003258?profile=original" /></a></b></p><p><a href="http://www.atenasrealestate.cr/index.php/about-us" target="_blank">Atenas Costa Rica realtors</a>, Dennis Easters and Gerardo Gonzalez Porras, have been successfully helping customers <b>buy <a href="http://www.atenasrealestate.cr/index.php/costa-rica-homes-for-rental-and-sale" target="_blank">homes for sale in Atenas Costa Rica</a>,</b> and do <b>home construction in Costa Rica</b> for 10 years. Call or email them today to discuss your Atenas Costa Rica real estate needs.</p><p> </p><p><b><i>Article by Shannon Farley</i></b></p></div>PBS to feature baby sloths in Costa Rica on Nature programhttps://tripatini.com/profiles/blogs/pbs-to-feature-baby-sloths-in-costa-rica-on-nature-program2015-09-21T23:33:16.000Z2015-09-21T23:33:16.000ZShannon Farleyhttps://tripatini.com/members/ShannonFarley<div><p><b><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9009000888,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9009000888,original{{/staticFileLink}}" width="640" alt="9009000888?profile=original" /></a>The cute and cuddly sloths of Costa Rica</b> will once again feature in <b>international television and online programming</b>. The award-winning production <strong><a href="http://www.pbs.org/wnet/nature/" target="_blank">Nature</a></strong> will air a two-part program called <strong><a href="http://www.pbs.org/wnet/nature/natures-miracle-orphans/12712/" target="_blank">Nature’s Miracle Orphans</a></strong> <b>on PBS on September 23 and 30, 2015 at 8:00 p.m. (ET).</b> After each broadcast, the episode will be available for online streaming at <a href="http://www.pbs.org/wnet/nature/" target="_blank">pbs.org/nature</a>. <em><b>Nature</b></em> is a production of THIRTEEN Productions LLC for WNET. <em><b>Nature’s Miracle Orphans</b></em> is a BBC Production. The series has been consistently among the most-watched primetime series on public television in the USA.</p><p> </p><p>The show tells the story of <b>orphaned baby sloths</b> at <strong><a href="http://www.theslothinstitutecostarica.org/" target="_blank">The Sloth Institute Costa Rica</a></strong> (SICR) in Manuel Antonio, run by Sam Trull, who is “<strong>dedicated to helping one of the most charismatic animals in Costa Rica, the sloth.” The Sloth Institute collaborates with the nonprofit organization <a href="http://kidssavingtherainforest.org/" target="_blank">Kids Saving the Rainforest</a> in Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica, for <a href="https://www.facebook.com/theslothinstitutecostarica" target="_blank">sloth rescue, rehabilitation and release</a>.</strong></p><p> </p><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9009001464,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9009001464,original{{/staticFileLink}}" width="680" alt="9009001464?profile=original" /></a>n the episodes, storylines follow <b>“Newbie”, a baby three-toed female sloth</b> that has been battling pneumonia since her rescue, a condition Trull thinks may have been triggered by the stress of losing her mother. “In the wild, Newbie would have spent nine months clinging to her mother for comfort and security, feeding on her milk and learning what to eat. The tasks of feeding Newbie and showing her what foods to eat now fall to Trull as surrogate mother,” show information explains. Another sloth in the limelight is <b>“Pelota”, a two-toed female sloth</b> that Trull is preparing to release back into the wild, and so must teach her to climb, swim, and spend nights outside alone.</p><p> </p><p>The PBS documentary <em><b>Nature’s Miracle Orphans</b></em> <em><b>also</b></em> <b>follows the stories of koalas, wallabies, kangaroos and fruit bats in Australia</b> as they cope with survival without parents, and learning the life skills needed to survive back in the wild from their rescuers.</p><p> </p><p><b><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9009001299,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9009001299,original{{/staticFileLink}}" width="640" alt="9009001299?profile=original" /></a>Sloths in Costa Rica have become famous</b>, and are one of the most sought-after animals to see by travelers visiting Costa Rica. <b>Animal Planet</b> featured rescued sloths at the <b><a href="http://www.slothsanctuary.com/" target="_blank">Sloth Sanctuary of Costa Rica</a>,</b> on the southern Caribbean Coast, in several shows in 2014 – <b>“Meet</b> <b>the Sloths”</b> and <b>“Sloth Week”</b>. The <a href="http://www.visitcostarica.com/ict/paginas/home.asp?ididioma=2" target="_blank">Costa Rica Tourism Board</a> also promotes sloths in its tourism campaigns to Costa Rica.</p><p> </p><p><b>See sloths in the wild in Costa Rica</b></p><p> </p><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9009002081,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9009002081,original{{/staticFileLink}}" width="640" alt="9009002081?profile=original" /></a>The <a href="http://www.portasol.cr/en/inside-portasol/bio-reserve.html" target="_blank">private rainforest reserve</a> and 1,335 acres of protected land at <a href="http://portasol.cr/en/" target="_blank">Portasol Rainforest & Ocean View Living</a> <b>eco-development</b>, just south of Manuel Antonio, is a <b>great place to see <a href="http://www.portasol.cr/en/inside-portasol/flora-fauna.html" target="_blank">sloths in the Costa Rica jungle</a></b>.</p><p> </p><p>Portasol has <a href="http://www.portasol.cr/en/lodging/costa-rica-rainforest-vacation-rental-bungalows.html" target="_blank">Costa Rica vacation rentals</a> and <a href="http://www.enchanting-costarica.com/destinations/want-unique-eco-community-costa-rica-property-investment/" target="_blank">Costa Rica property for sale</a> in a <b>sustainable community</b>. You can stay on the rainforest property for a vacation and enjoy <b>Portasol’s trails and waterfalls</b>, or take a <a href="http://www.enchanting-costarica.com/activities/best-wildlife-tour-in-costa-rica/" target="_blank">wildlife day tour</a> with <a href="http://bushmastercostaricatours.com/" target="_blank">Bushmaster Adventures</a>.</p><p> </p><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9009001887,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9009001887,original{{/staticFileLink}}" width="487" alt="9009001887?profile=original" /></a>Portasol’s location is ideal – between <a href="http://www.portasol.cr/en/location/national-parks.html" target="_blank">Manuel Antonio National Park</a> and <b>the <a href="http://www.costarica-nationalparks.com/ballenanationalmarinepark.html" target="_blank">Ballena National Marine Park</a></b> on Costa Rica’s Central Pacific Coast. The <b>beautiful uncrowded </b><a href="http://www.enchanting-costarica.com/costa-rica-2/shhh-dont-tell-hidden-paradise-beaches-costa-ricas-central-pacific-coast/" target="_blank">beaches of Playa Linda and Playa Matapalo</a> are a few miles away. <b>Portasol Rainforest & Ocean View Living</b> appears in the new 2015 <a href="http://www.enchanting-costarica.com/costa-rica-2/after-words-movie-filmed-at-portasol-living-in-costa-rica/" target="_blank">Hollywood movie After Words</a>, with Marcia Gay Harden and Oscar Jaenada that was filmed in Costa Rica.</p><p> </p><p><b><i>Article by Shannon Farley</i></b></p></div>Your Guide to Living in Atenas, Costa Ricahttps://tripatini.com/profiles/blogs/your-guide-to-living-in-atenas-costa-rica2015-09-26T22:50:13.000Z2015-09-26T22:50:13.000ZShannon Farleyhttps://tripatini.com/members/ShannonFarley<div><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9296605683,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9296605683,original{{/staticFileLink}}" width="640" alt="9296605683?profile=original" /></a>Learn all there is to know about <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mXPnmOFV_ls" target="_blank">Atenas, Costa Rica</a> in this super handy guide from <a href="http://www.atenasrealestate.cr/" target="_blank">Pure Life Development of Atenas</a>. If you have any questions on anything to do with Atenas, Costa Rica, get in touch with <a href="http://www.atenasrealestate.cr/index.php/about-us" target="_blank">Atenas Costa Rica realtors</a>, Dennis Easters and Gerardo Gonzalez Porras. They have been successfully helping customers <b><a href="http://www.atenasrealestate.cr/index.php/costa-rica-homes-for-rental-and-sale" target="_blank">buy and sell real estate in Costa Rica</a>,</b> do land development and home construction in Costa Rica for 10 years.</p><p></p><p><span class="font-size-3"><b><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008998089,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008998089,original{{/staticFileLink}}" width="640" alt="9008998089?profile=original" /></a>Your Guide to Living in Atenas, Costa Rica</b></span></p><p>With an ideal location, Atenas, Costa Rica offers everything for living your dreams. Atenas is <b>located on the western edge of Costa Rica’s Central Valley</b>, where the mountains drop away to the Pacific Coast. Less than an hour away are the <b>capital city of San Jose</b> to the east, and some of the <b>best Pacific Coast beaches</b> to the west. The <b>Arenal Volcano</b> is only 2.5 hours north.</p><p> </p><p><b>The population is about 27,000 residents</b>, including all of the outlying neighborhoods. Atenas has been named a <b>top place for international retirement</b> by International Living, HelpAge International and AARP. There are an estimated <b>1,500 foreign residents</b> from North America and Europe who live in Atenas full time. That number almost doubles during Costa Rica’s high tourism season, from December to early April during the colder months to the north, when part-time residents and tourists come to <b>vacation homes in Atenas</b>.</p><p> </p><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008998887,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008998887,original{{/staticFileLink}}" width="640" alt="9008998887?profile=original" /></a>Atenas offers residents a blend of <a href="http://www.atenasrealestate.cr/index.php/articles/162-making-atenas-costa-rica-your-new-home" target="_blank">rural and small town qualities</a>, including <b>safe neighborhoods</b> and low crime levels, good public services, excellent public and private schools, easy access to health care, and a thriving active foreign community.</p><p> </p><p><b>The heart of Atenas is its central park</b>, with the Catholic Church bordering one side and ringed by shops, restaurants and cafes, the National Bank, the Atenas Municipality and the Atenas courthouse. The park is a perfect spot to enjoy an ice cream or coffee or simply take in local life. In the late afternoon, flocks of green parrots and the occasional toucan settle in the palm trees above the park.</p><p> </p><p>What makes Atenas feel like home is its people. Local Costa Ricans -- called “Ticos and Ticas” – will welcome you with big smiles and warm friendliness.</p><p> </p><p><span class="font-size-3"><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008999901,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008999901,original{{/staticFileLink}}" width="480" alt="9008999901?profile=original" /></a><a href="http://www.enchanting-costarica.com/costa-rica-2/atenas-costa-rica-celebrates-147-years-community-tranquility/" target="_blank">History of Atenas, Costa Rica</a></span></p><p> </p><p><b>The town of Atenas was founded in 1868</b> along the oxcart trail that transported coffee from the fertile Central Valley to the Pacific coastal port of Puntarenas. Atenas was a main meeting point along the route. Traders from the coast would travel up the low coastal foothills to Atenas to meet merchants from San Jose and the valley, each side selling their goods to the other. As Atenas developed, citizens from neighboring cities of Alajuela, San Jose and Heredia relocated to the region. <b>Atenas’ oxcart history</b> is immortalized in the <b>famous Oxcart Monument</b> in town by sculptor Manuel “Manolo” Torrecillas Lopez.</p><h2><span class="font-size-3"><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008945452,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008945452,original{{/staticFileLink}}" width="608" alt="9008945452?profile=original" /></a>Climate for Atenas, Costa Rica</span></h2><p>Atenas, Costa Rica claims it has the <b>“<a href="http://www.atenasrealestate.cr/index.php/articles/163-does-atenas-costa-rica-have-the-best-climate" target="_blank">Best Climate in the World</a>.”</b> Composed of <b>mountains and valleys,</b> Atenas ranges in elevation from <b>2,200 to 4,000 feet.</b> Residents enjoy wonderful weather, stunning landscapes, and panoramic views of valleys, volcanoes and the coast. According to data from the Costa Rica National Meteorological Institute, <b>Atenas receives 2,500 hours of sun per year</b>. Average daily temperatures in Atenas range from 72 to 85 F during the day, and 60 to 68 F at night.</p><p> </p><p><span class="font-size-2">“<b>Atenas town enjoys a moderate climate</b>. So, we can conclude that the climate is very warm during the day but temperatures drop significantly at night,” writes Atenas historian Eladio Valerio on his website <a href="http://www.atenasonline.com/en-la-mira-del-experto.php" target="_blank">Atenasonline.com</a>. </span></p><h2><span class="font-size-3"><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9009000688,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9009000688,original{{/staticFileLink}}" width="640" alt="9009000688?profile=original" /></a>Neighborhoods in Atenas, Costa Rica</span></h2><h2><span class="font-size-2">Atenas has a good variety of gated communities, private estate properties, and small farms. Some of the more popular neighborhoods include:</span></h2><ul><li><h2><span class="font-size-2"><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9009001275,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img width="200" class="align-right" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9009001275,original{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="9009001275?profile=original" /></a>Roca Verde</span></h2></li><li><h2><span class="font-size-2">Hacienda Atenas</span></h2></li><li><h2><span class="font-size-2">Vista Atenas</span></h2></li><li><h2><span class="font-size-2">Lomas del Paraiso</span></h2></li><li><h2><span class="font-size-2">Pica Flora</span></h2></li><li><h2><span class="font-size-2">Estanquillos</span></h2></li><li><h2><span class="font-size-2">Santa Eulalia</span></h2></li><li><h2><span class="font-size-2">Sabana Larga</span></h2></li><li><h2><span class="font-size-2">San Ysidro</span></h2></li><li><h2><span class="font-size-2">Morazan</span></h2></li><li><h2><span class="font-size-2">Los Angeles</span></h2></li></ul><h2><span class="font-size-3">Atenas, Costa Rica Schools</span></h2><p>More and more young families are moving to Atenas, and that means kids needing schools. Besides the public elementary schools and high schools in Atenas, there are several excellent private bilingual (Spanish-English) schools:</p><ul><li>Green Valley School (pre-school, elementary & high school)</li><li>San Rafael Bilingual High School</li><li>Colina Azul School (pre-school & elementary)</li></ul><h2><span class="font-size-3"><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9296605874,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img width="300" class="align-right" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9296605874,original{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="9296605874?profile=original" /></a>Hospitals/Medical Centers in or nearby Atenas, Costa Rica</span></h2><ul><li><h2><span class="font-size-2">Atenas has a local branch of the Costa Rica Red Cross, which provides emergency medical care and ambulance service.</span></h2></li><li><h2><span class="font-size-2">There is a main health clinic and emergency room in the town center.</span></h2></li><li><h2><span class="font-size-2">Linea Vital Costa Rica provides private health care, emergency care and ambulance service in Atenas.</span></h2></li><li><h2><span class="font-size-2">Hospitals are less than an hour’s drive away in Alajuela and San Jose, including the internationally-rated private hospitals of CIMA, Clinica Biblica and the Catholic Hospital.</span></h2></li></ul><h2><span class="font-size-3">What’s The Atenas, Costa Rica Real Estate Market Like?</span></h2><p>The <a href="http://www.atenasrealestate.cr/" target="_blank">Atenas real estate market</a> attracts mostly people looking to retire in Costa Rica – age 55 and up. Many buyers purchase <a href="http://www.atenasrealestate.cr/index.php/costa-rica-homes-for-rental-and-sale" target="_blank">homes in Atenas</a> three to five years before retirement, and use their homes as <a href="http://www.atenasrealestate.cr/index.php/costa-rica-vacation-rentals" target="_blank">vacation rentals</a>. Additionally, about 30 to 40 percent of buyers in the Atenas market are Costa Ricans from San Jose looking to move out of the capital city. Highway 27 makes it easy to commute to work in the city.</p><p> </p><p>Well priced homes in Atenas typically sell in zero to six months. You can find homes ranging from less than $100,000 to over $500,000. The most popular price range is from $350,000 to $500,000, with 2 to 3 bedrooms, 2 to 3 baths, a guest house, pool, and a view. Atenas (and Costa Rica in general) is a cash market, with little to no local financing available. </p><p><b> </b></p><p><span class="font-size-3"><strong><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008906284,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008906284,original{{/staticFileLink}}" width="600" alt="9008906284?profile=original" /></a>Atenas, Costa Rica Realtor – Why Choose Pure Life Development?</strong></span></p><p> </p><p>In beautiful <b><a href="http://www.atenasrealestate.cr/articles/181-how-to-find-out-about-atenas-costa-rica.html" target="_blank">Atenas, Costa Rica</a>,</b> real estate agency <a href="http://www.atenasrealestate.cr/" target="_blank">Pure Life Development of Atenas</a> specializes in <b><a href="http://www.atenasrealestate.cr/index.php/costa-rica-homes-for-rental-and-sale" target="_blank">Atenas homes for sale</a>, </b><a href="http://www.atenasrealestate.cr/index.php/costa-rica-land-and-farms-for-sale" target="_blank">Costa Rica properties for sale</a> and <a href="http://www.atenasrealestate.cr/index.php/costa-rica-vacation-rentals" target="_blank">Costa Rica vacation homes</a>.</p><p> </p><p>If you are thinking about<strong> </strong>buying a home<strong>,</strong> investment property, or other Atenas Costa Rica real estate<strong>,</strong> let Atenas Costa Rica realtors Dennis Easters and Gerardo Porras Gonzalez help make the process a smooth and pleasant experience. Both Dennis and Gerardo are certified with the Costa Rica Chamber of Real Estate, and Dennis is a licensed realtor from Florida. Call or email them today to discuss your Atenas Costa Rica real estate needs.</p><p></p><p><b><i>Article by Shannon Farley</i></b></p></div>7 Reasons why you should use a real estate agent to move to Costa Ricahttps://tripatini.com/profiles/blogs/7-reasons-why-you-should-use-a-real-estate-agent-to-move-to-costa2015-07-25T22:24:39.000Z2015-07-25T22:24:39.000ZShannon Farleyhttps://tripatini.com/members/ShannonFarley<div><p><b><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008973884,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img width="600" class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008973884,original{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="9008973884?profile=original" /></a>Costa Rica’s real estate market is on the rise again</b> and foreign investors are heading to the <b>popular Central American country for <a href="http://www.enchanting-costarica.com/destinations/retired-living-good-life-atenas-costa-rica/" target="_blank">retirement</a> or a simpler place to live</b>, or to <b>invest in a Costa Rica vacation home</b> or other property investment. <strong>The good news is that foreigners can legally own property in Costa Rica.</strong></p><p><b>Even the savviest home buyer should pause before entering into a real estate deal in a foreign country.</b> There is no way to know everything you need to without years of on-the-ground experience. Whether you are interested in purchasing land, a home, condo or commercial property in Costa Rica, you want to be informed to make the best decisions. <b>This is where you need a <a href="http://www.atenasrealestate.cr/" target="_blank">professional Costa Rica realtor</a>.</b></p><p>Buying or selling a property anywhere can be a challenge if you are on your own. <a href="http://www.enchanting-costarica.com/costa-rica-real-estate/is-it-a-good-time-to-buy-real-estate-in-costa-rica/" target="_blank">Buying property in Costa Rica</a> has the <b>added challenges of a different system and language</b> from North America, for instance. Although <b>Costa Rica is considered one of the best Latin American countries regarding foreign investment and ownership rights</b>, there are still things to look out for. Do your property homework, and with a good professional realtor by your side, you’ll be enjoying your new home or life adventure in no time.</p><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008906054,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008906054,original{{/staticFileLink}}" width="600" alt="9008906054?profile=original" /></a></p><p><span class="font-size-3"><strong>7 Reasons why you should use a real estate agent in Costa Rica</strong></span></p><p><strong>1. You get access to scores of listings, and someone helping you select the right properties</strong> <strong>to see based on your requirements and interests.</strong> In Costa Rica there is no MLS (multiple listing service), which is a centralized, national database of all real estate for sale. <b>If you use a <a href="http://www.atenasrealestate.cr/index.php/about-us" target="_blank">professional Costa Rica real estate agency</a>, you will have access to a diversified <a href="http://www.atenasrealestate.cr/index.php/costa-rica-homes-for-rental-and-sale" target="_blank">portfolio of properties for sale</a></b> – including properties not yet listed for sale or actively advertised (“pocket listings”). This is especially true in Costa Rica where for sale signs are not commonly used.</p><p class="FreeForm"></p><p class="FreeForm"><strong>2.</strong> Real estate agents <b>know the history of</b> <b>a home or property</b>, the location, neighborhood, town and region.</p><p class="FreeForm"> </p><p class="FreeForm"><strong>3.</strong> You can obtain <b>recommendations for reputable professionals for home and property inspections.</b> Your real estate agent can help you to coordinate these.</p><p class="FreeForm"><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008974085,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008974085,original{{/staticFileLink}}" width="600" alt="9008974085?profile=original" /></a></p><p class="FreeForm"><strong>4.</strong> Real estate agents can help you <b>negotiate a fair purchase price</b>, along with financing, terms, date of possession, and the inclusion or exclusion of repairs, furnishings or equipment. Statistics show that <b>realtors can typically negotiate and save you more money</b> than negotiating on your own.</p><p class="FreeForm"> </p><p class="FreeForm"><strong>5.</strong> Professional real estate agents will work with a <b>reputable lawyer who specializes in real estate transactions and title searches</b>, and is completely bilingual with experience working with foreign clients.</p><p class="FreeForm"> </p><p class="FreeForm"><strong>6.</strong> A real estate agent can <b>lead you through the closing process</b> and make sure everything flows together smoothly, so that you come to the closing table with no surprises.</p><p class="FreeForm"> </p><p class="FreeForm"><strong>7.</strong> Working with a professional realtor <b>helps to alleviate much of the stress involved in purchasing a new home or property</b>. A realtor can help you connect utilities, arrange moving services, purchase furniture, and introduce you to the local community, among other things.</p><p class="FreeForm"><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008933855,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img width="600" class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008933855,original{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="9008933855?profile=original" /></a></p><p><a href="http://www.atenasrealestate.cr/index.php/contact-us" target="_blank">REAL ESTATE AGENTS IN ATENAS, COSTA RICA</a></p><p>In beautiful <b><a href="http://www.atenasrealestate.cr/index.php/articles/162-making-atenas-costa-rica-your-new-home" target="_blank">Atenas, Costa Rica</a>,</b> the real estate agency <strong><a href="http://www.atenasrealestate.cr/" target="_blank">Pure Life Development of Atenas</a></strong> specializes in <b><a href="http://www.atenasrealestate.cr/index.php/costa-rica-homes-for-rental-and-sale" target="_blank">Atenas homes for sale</a>, <a href="http://www.atenasrealestate.cr/index.php/costa-rica-land-and-farms-for-sale" target="_blank">Costa Rica properties for sale</a></b> and <strong><a href="http://www.atenasrealestate.cr/index.php/costa-rica-vacation-rentals" target="_blank">Costa Rica vacation homes</a></strong>. <b>Atenas, Costa Rica</b> <b>realtors</b> Dennis Easters and Gerardo Gonzalez-Porras are experts in buying and selling real estate in Costa Rica, land development and home construction in Costa Rica.</p><p>Both Easters, a licensed realtor from Florida and real estate professional for 22 years, and his Costa Rican partner Gerardo Gonzalez-Porras are <b>certified with the <a href="http://www.camara.cr/new/#" target="_blank">Costa Rica Chamber of Real Estate</a></b>. They have been successfully helping customers find new homes in Atenas, Costa Rica for 10 years.</p></div>The best sources of information about Atenas, Costa Ricahttps://tripatini.com/profiles/blogs/the-best-sources-of-information-about-atenas-costa-rica2015-05-21T23:08:03.000Z2015-05-21T23:08:03.000ZShannon Farleyhttps://tripatini.com/members/ShannonFarley<div><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008952478,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img width="600" class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008952478,original{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="9008952478?profile=original" /></a>Heard about <a href="http://costarica.com/atenas/" target="_blank">Atenas, Costa Rica</a> – a <a href="http://www.enchanting-costarica.com/destinations/retired-living-good-life-atenas-costa-rica/" target="_blank">favorite place for international retirement</a> – and want to know more information?</p><p>The charming country town, <b>strategically located</b> between the capital city of San Jose and beautiful Pacific Coast beaches, has several sources of information to let you know <b>what’s happening in Atenas, Costa Rica</b>. All are available online from wherever you may be. Then, <b>the best thing to do is to <a href="http://www.atenasrealestate.cr/index.php/articles/167-vacation-rentals-are-the-new-way-to-stay-in-atenas-costa-rica" target="_blank">visit Atenas in person</a></b>.</p><p> </p><p><a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Atenas-Today-e-magazine/1413362918918885?fref=ts" target="_blank">ATENAS TODAY E-MAGAZINE</a></p><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008952291,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-right" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008952291,original{{/staticFileLink}}" width="240" alt="9008952291?profile=original" /></a>One of the <b>best sources of information about Atenas, Costa Rica</b> is the <b>monthly online community publication, the Atenas Today e-magazine</b>. <b>Published on the 23<sup>rd</sup> of every month</b>, Atenas Today presents a community calendar, information about events in and around Atenas, regular columnists, a gallery of works by local artists, and some local advertising. <b>All columnists and artists are Atenas residents</b>. Now in its eighth year, Atenas Today has <b>more than 600 readers</b> in Atenas and out of the area.</p><p>Atenas Today is a labor of love by <b>Atenas resident Marietta Arce</b>. Originally started in March 2007 by former Atenas homeowner, Fred MacDonald, Arce took it over in April 2011 when MacDonald returned to the USA. It is a non-paid hobby that has become a <b>huge community commitment</b>. Costa Rican 100% and raised in New York, Arce moved back to her homeland of Costa Rica 16 years ago with her husband and family; they have lived in Atenas for 13 years.</p><p>“<b>Atenas Today is a wonderful source of positive information about the Atenas community</b>,” commented Costa Rica realtor Dennis Easters with <a href="http://www.atenasrealestate.cr/" target="_blank">Pure Life Development of Atenas</a>. “It is an important resource for our community because it provides quality information about what is happening in our town, as well as resources such as local blogs about <a href="http://www.atenasrealestate.cr/index.php/articles/162-making-atenas-costa-rica-your-new-home" target="_blank">living in Atenas and Costa Rica</a>.”</p><p>You can <b>subscribe to receive the monthly Atenas Today e-magazine</b> by emailing editor Marietta Arce at <a href="mailto:atenastoday@gmail.com">atenastoday@gmail.com</a>. Subscribers also receive the <b>Atenas Yellow Pages</b> each month. <b>Back issues are available</b> on <a href="http://www.scomari.com/atenastoday.html" target="_blank">Arce’s personal website</a>. There also is an <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Atenas-Today-e-magazine/1413362918918885?fref=ts" target="_blank">Atenas Today Facebook page</a> that publishes news between issues, happenings in town, events, and nationwide information of interest to people in Atenas.</p><p> </p><p><b><a href="http://atenasdigitalcr.com/" target="_blank">RADIO ATENAS</a> <br /></b></p><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008952866,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img width="200" class="align-left" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008952866,original{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="9008952866?profile=original" /></a>Tune into the pulse of Atenas, Costa Rica with <b>music and news on online radio station, Radio Atenas</b>. The <b>24-hour station is online</b> <b>only</b> – on the air since September 2014 – and they hope to get a community FM station in the future. You can <b>download free apps for your mobile phone on the <a href="http://atenasdigitalcr.com/" target="_blank">Radio Atenas website</a></b> to listen to Radio Atenas wherever you go.</p><p>The station’s <b>programming is mostly in Spanish</b>, except for <b>Atenas resident Marietta Arce’s show on Fridays at 1:00 pm in English</b>. She presents theme shows with music and community news and events. Arce has a Spanish-language talk show on Thursdays at 11:00 a.m. about current events in Costa Rica, culture, traditions, how-to’s, and interviews with community figures. The station also accepts advertising.</p><p> </p><p><b>OTHER INFORMATION SOURCES ABOUT ATENAS, COSTA RICA</b></p><p>A very good <b>source of information about Costa Rica</b> is <a href="http://www.welovecostarica.com/" target="_blank">We Love Costa Rica</a>.</p><p>Another is <b><a href="http://www.atenasrealestate.cr/" target="_blank">Pure Life Development's website</a> and <a href="http://www.atenasrealestate.cr/blog.html" target="_blank">blog</a>.</b></p><p>There are three <b>Facebook groups about Atenas</b>: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/AtenasOnlineCR?fref=ts" target="_blank">Atenas Online</a>, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/atenascostaricainfo/" target="_blank">Atenas Costa Rica Info</a>, and <a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/158109054229981/" target="_blank">Atenas International</a>.</p><p></p><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008952687,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img width="600" class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008952687,original{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="9008952687?profile=original" /></a></p><p><b>HOW TO VISIT OR LIVE IN ATENAS, COSTA RICA</b></p><p> </p><p>This <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mXPnmOFV_ls" target="_blank">video</a> from Pure Life Development of Atenas will give you a good idea of what it would be like to <a href="http://www.atenasrealestate.cr/index.php/articles/168-why-is-it-a-good-time-to-buy-real-estate-in-costa-rica" target="_blank">live in Atenas, Costa Rica</a> or to visit on vacation.</p><p> </p><p><a href="http://www.atenasrealestate.cr/index.php/about-us" target="_blank">Atenas, Costa Rica realtors</a> Dennis Easters and Gerardo Gonzalez-Porras of <a href="http://www.atenasrealestate.cr/" target="_blank">Pure Life Development of Atenas</a>, specialize in <a href="http://www.atenasrealestate.cr/index.php/costa-rica-homes-for-rental-and-sale" target="_blank">Atenas homes for sale</a> and <a href="http://www.atenasrealestate.cr/index.php/costa-rica-vacation-rentals" target="_blank">Costa Rica vacation rentals</a>. Originally from Florida, Easters knows first-hand what it is like to <b>relocate to live in Costa Rica</b>. Gonzalez-Porras is Costa Rican born and raised and has worked in real estate for 10 years.</p><p> </p><p><b><i>Article by Shannon Farley</i></b></p></div>Oxcarts and cultural fiestas in Atenas, Costa Ricahttps://tripatini.com/profiles/blogs/oxcarts-and-cultural-fiestas-in-atenas-costa-rica2015-04-22T00:57:06.000Z2015-04-22T00:57:06.000ZShannon Farleyhttps://tripatini.com/members/ShannonFarley<div><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008944100,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img width="600" class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008944100,original{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="9008944100?profile=original" /></a>The way Omar Arce sees it, the <b>Costa Rica tradition of the oxcart driver and his oxen</b> is an <b>important cultural heritage that must be kept alive</b>. Nowadays in his country town of <a href="http://costarica.com/atenas/" target="_blank">Atenas, Costa Rica</a> most roads are paved and cars zoom everywhere. But when Arce, 73, was a boy, the only way to bring the vegetables his father sold from their family farm to the town center was by walking with their team of oxen pulling a wooden cart loaded with produce. The 7 km journey – now a 15-minute drive – would take four hours each way, Arce recalled.</p><p> </p><p>The important <b>Costa Rica tradition of the oxcart driver</b> will be celebrated <b>Sunday, April 26, in the Atenas, Costa Rica Oxcart Parade 2015.</b> The event culminates a <b>month of</b> <b>cultural events</b> in the charming Costa Rica coffee town.</p><p> </p><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008944300,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img width="600" class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008944300,original{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="9008944300?profile=original" /></a>There is perhaps nothing as <b>emblematic of Costa Rica culture</b> as the <b>oxcart driver, his team of matched oxen and colorfully-painted wooden oxcart and oxen yoke</b>. In 2005, <b>UNESCO</b> (United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization) <b>proclaimed </b><b>Costa Rica’s traditional oxcarts</b> <b>to be an <a href="http://www.unesco.org/culture/intangible-heritage/12lac_uk.htm" target="_blank">Intangible World Cultural Heritage</a></b>.</p><p> </p><p><b>Atenas has a long history with oxcarts. Located on the traditional main oxcart road</b> from the capital city of San Jose to the Pacific Coast, <b>the town of</b> <b>Atenas</b> was the <b>central meeting point for traders</b> coming from both points to sell their goods. <b>Atenas’ oxcart history</b> is immortalized in the <b>famous Oxcart Monument</b> in town by sculptor Manuel “Manolo” Torrecillas Lopez.</p><p> </p><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008945452,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img width="500" class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008945452,original{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="9008945452?profile=original" /></a>The <b>Atenas Oxcart Parade will begin at 10:00 a.m.</b> traveling through town around the Central Park. Organized by the <b>Atenas</b> <b>Oxcart Drivers’ Association</b> (<i>Asociacion Cuna del Boyero Ateniense</i>), of which Arce is President, <b>more than 300 oxcart drivers with their teams of oxen and carts</b> are expected from all over the country to participate.</p><p> </p><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008945478,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img width="500" class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008945478,original{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="9008945478?profile=original" /></a>The big event culminates the <b>annual</b> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/C%C3%A1mara-de-Turismo-y-Comercio-de-Atenas-CATUCA/110183168996986?ref=hl" target="_blank">Atenas Climate Fair</a> (<i>Feria del Clima</i>), <b>April 24 to 26.</b> Put on by the <a href="http://www.atenas-catuca.com" target="_blank">Chamber of Tourism and Commerce of Atenas</a> (CATUCA), the fiestas in the town <b>Central Park</b> will feature the exhibition and sale of products with <b>emphasis on environmental conservation, recycling, natural and organic</b>, etc. There will be live music, dance performances by community groups, and traditional food and drink. <b>It is a great event for</b> <b>families</b>. For more information, contact CATUCA at 2446-1047.</p><p> </p><p><b><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9296597481,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img width="550" class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9296597481,original{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="9296597481?profile=original" /></a><a href="http://www.atenasrealestate.cr/index.php/articles/162-making-atenas-costa-rica-your-new-home" target="_blank">Atenas, Costa Rica</a> is a favorite place for international retirement</b>. The quaint country town is located <b>less than an hour’s drive</b> from the <b>capital city of San Jose</b>, 30 minutes from the <b>Juan Santamaria International Airport</b>, and 45 minutes from <b>Pacific Coast beaches.</b> See what it would be like to <a href="http://www.enchanting-costarica.com/destinations/retired-living-good-life-atenas-costa-rica/" target="_blank">live in Atenas, Costa Rica</a> – known for its <b>sunny climate</b> – in this <b>new video.</b></p><p><b> </b></p><p>For <a href="http://www.atenasrealestate.cr/index.php/costa-rica-land-and-farms-for-sale" target="_blank">real estate in Atenas, Costa Rica</a> contact realtors Dennis Easters and Gerardo Gonzalez-Porras of <b><a href="http://www.atenasrealestate.cr/" target="_blank">Pure Life Development of Atenas</a>,</b> specializing in <a href="http://www.atenasrealestate.cr/index.php/costa-rica-homes-for-rental-and-sale" target="_blank">Atenas homes for sale</a> and <a href="http://www.atenasrealestate.cr/index.php/costa-rica-vacation-rentals" target="_blank">Costa Rica vacation rentals</a>.</p><p> </p><p><b><i>Article by Shannon Farley</i></b></p><p> </p></div>See why Costa Rica was named top five best places in the world to retirehttps://tripatini.com/profiles/blogs/see-why-costa-rica-was-named-top-five-best-places-in-the-world-to2015-03-19T02:32:31.000Z2015-03-19T02:32:31.000ZShannon Farleyhttps://tripatini.com/members/ShannonFarley<div><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008933855,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img width="650" class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008933855,original{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="9008933855?profile=original" /></a>John Boggs first <b>fell in love with Costa Rica</b> many years ago when he was in the Air Force stationed in Panama. He visited Costa Rica frequently for R&R and on business, but it wasn’t until 2013 when he and his wife, Gay, finally <b>moved to the renowned tropical country to retire</b>.</p><p> </p><p>Selling their house in Virginia, they opted for the <b>adventure of</b> <b>international retirement life</b> and chose <a href="http://www.atenasrealestate.cr/index.php/articles/162-making-atenas-costa-rica-your-new-home" target="_blank">Atenas, Costa Rica</a> <b>for their new home</b>. The couple liked <b>Costa Rica’s</b> <b>family-based culture</b> and chose <b>Atenas</b> for its <b>great location</b>. The small country town is located 45 minutes from the <b>capital city of San Jose</b>, 30 minutes from the <b>Juan Santamaria International Airport</b>, and 45 minutes from <b>Pacific Coast beaches</b>.</p><p> </p><p>“We love the people here. It is a <b>very respectful country and the people are so kind</b>. It reminds us of how the United States was when we were growing up, very family based,” explained Gay Boggs. “In Atenas, we love that we are so close to great health care and close to the airport. It is a <b>small town atmosphere</b> but is very <b>close to everything that we need</b>.”</p><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008934097,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img width="550" class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008934097,original{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="9008934097?profile=original" /></a>The Boggs’ are not alone in moving to the country CNN recently named “<b>one of the most amazing destinations for 2015.”</b> <b>Costa Rica,</b> along with <b>Ecuador, Panama and Mexico</b>, are all <b><a href="http://internationalliving.com/2015/01/the-best-places-to-retire-2015/" target="_blank">top five best places in the world to retire</a>,</b> according to the <b>2015 International Living Retirement Index.</b></p><p>Retirees laud <b><a href="http://www.atenasrealestate.cr/index.php/costa-rica-land-and-farms-for-sale" target="_blank">Costa Rica’s affordable real estate</a> and cost of living, good private health care, great weather and relaxed lifestyle</b> as attractive reasons to move to the Central American nation.</p><p>Don and Janie Orsino of Southern California were considering <b>Costa Rica, Panama, Ecuador and Uruguay for places they might like to retire</b>, until they visited Costa Rica. “We did one of those <b>retirement tours in Costa Rica</b>, and we were so convinced after that tour that we didn’t go to those other places,” said Don Orsino. “Everywhere your eye falls <b>it is so beautiful</b>. The weather is great. The <b>people are the friendliest</b> of anywhere in the world, and it has a <b>good stable economy</b> for us to buy a house.”</p><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008934260,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img width="550" class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008934260,original{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="9008934260?profile=original" /></a> </p><p>The Orsinos found their <b>new <a href="http://www.atenasrealestate.cr/index.php/costa-rica-homes-for-rental-and-sale" target="_blank">retirement home in Atenas, Costa Rica</a></b> in November 2014 using realtor Dennis Easters of <a href="http://www.atenasrealestate.cr/" target="_blank">Pure Life Development of Atenas</a>. “Atenas is a neat little town with a lot of nice shops. It is <b>close to the beach,”</b> said Orsino. “We also chose Atenas because if in the future we decide we want to use our home as a <a href="http://www.atenasrealestate.cr/index.php/articles/167-vacation-rentals-are-the-new-way-to-stay-in-atenas-costa-rica" target="_blank">vacation rental</a>, or even if we decide to sell, we know we can get <b>much better prices in Atenas</b> than in many other areas nearby.”</p><p> </p><p>When the Boggs’ <b>chose Atenas as their retirement destination</b>, they opted to <b>build their dream custom home</b>. “We learned quickly that real estate in Costa Rica is not like the United States with its regulations, but <b>we found a few realtors in Costa Rica who were the most professional</b>,” commented Gay Boggs. “Dennis Easters and Gerardo Gonzalez of <a href="http://www.atenasrealestate.cr/index.php/testimonials" target="_blank">Pure Life Development of Atenas</a> found us exactly what we were specifically looking for. They listened to what we wanted and didn’t waste our time, which is rare. We were very <b>impressed with Dennis’ builder and the high quality of construction</b>.”</p><p> </p><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008924855,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img width="550" class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008924855,original{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="9008924855?profile=original" /></a>Realtor Dennis Easters said he left Florida for Atenas because he loved the small community that gave him a feeling of home. “We always say that we’re not selling houses or properties; we sell dreams,” said Easters. “I’m living my dream and I want to share this piece of paradise with others.”</p><p>See what it would be like to <a href="http://www.atenasrealestate.cr/index.php/costa-rica-homes-for-rental-and-sale" target="_blank">live in Atenas, Costa Rica</a> in this <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mXPnmOFV_ls" target="_blank">new video</a> from Pure Life Development of Atenas.</p><p><b><i>Article by Shannon Farley</i></b></p></div>See the video on why you want to live in Atenas, Costa Ricahttps://tripatini.com/profiles/blogs/see-the-video-on-why-you-want-to-live-in-atenas-costa-rica2015-02-12T21:48:32.000Z2015-02-12T21:48:32.000ZShannon Farleyhttps://tripatini.com/members/ShannonFarley<div><p>Life in <a href="http://www.atenasrealestate.cr/" target="_blank">Atenas, Costa Rica</a> is always “pura vida” – <b>life is good</b>. The <b>new <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mXPnmOFV_ls" target="_blank">video about Atenas, Costa Rica</a></b> by <a href="http://www.atenasrealestate.cr/index.php/about-us" target="_blank">Pure Life Development of Atenas</a> shows this with stunning footage of the mountain town’s natural beauty and attributes.</p><p><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/mXPnmOFV_ls?wmode=opaque" frameborder="0"></iframe></p><p>Produced by acclaimed photographer and videographer, <a href="http://www.prottifotovideo.com/" target="_blank">Oscar Protti</a> of Costa Rica, the four-minute high-quality <b>video depicts life in Costa Rica and in the charming centrally-located town of Atenas</b>. Protti used state-of-the-art equipment and remote control drones to produce breathtaking aerial footage.</p><p>“The video we created with Oscar Protti is extremely important for us to showcase what the community of Atenas has to offer. Atenas is a small, rural town, but close to everything. This is translated much better in a video format to see the abundance of natural beauty,” commented Dennis Easters, co-owner of Pure Life Development of Atenas.</p><p>From checkers’ games at the Atenas central market to the Atenas Railway Museum, farmers’ market, central park, luxury homes and verdant hills and valleys, you get a glimpse of <b>what it would be like to <a href="http://www.atenasrealestate.cr/index.php/articles/162-making-atenas-costa-rica-your-new-home" target="_blank">live in Atenas</a></b>, which <b>AARP</b> and <b>International Living</b> have named as a <b>top international retirement destination</b>. The video also presents Costa Rica’s famous beaches, rainforest, volcanoes and wildlife, along with the popular adventure sports of zip-lining and whitewater rafting.</p><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008923895,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008923895,original{{/staticFileLink}}" width="500" alt="9008923895?profile=original" /></a>CNN recently named <b>Costa Rica one of the most amazing destinations for 2015</b>, and National Geographic listed <b>Costa Rica in the top 10 best destinations for adventure in 2015</b>. “Only a <b>few hours’ flight</b> <b>from North America</b>, Costa Rica is a <b>leading travel destination</b> because it has something for everyone,” states Easters in the video.</p><p><b>Less than an hour’s drive</b> from the <b>capital city of San Jose</b> to the east, and some of the <b>best Pacific Coast beaches</b> to the west, <a href="http://costarica.com/atenas/" target="_blank">Atenas, Costa Rica</a> is known for having the <b>“<a href="http://www.atenasrealestate.cr/index.php/articles/163-does-atenas-costa-rica-have-the-best-climate" target="_blank">best climate</a>.”</b></p><p>“Atenas offers a wide variety of <b>quality properties</b> in beautiful gated communities and lovely local neighborhoods,” said Easters. The <b>benefits of buying <a href="http://www.atenasrealestate.cr/index.php/costa-rica-homes-for-rental-and-sale" target="_blank">real estate in Atenas</a></b>: location, convenience, nice international and local community, good climate, low crime rate, high re-sell value, and <b>great</b> <b><a href="http://www.enchanting-costarica.com/travel-tips/travel-trends-vacation-rentals-new-way-stay/" target="_blank">Costa Rica vacation rental</a> market</b>.</p><p><b><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9296595067,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img width="650" class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9296595067,original{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="9296595067?profile=original" /></a></b></p><p>For <a href="http://www.atenasrealestate.cr/index.php/articles/168-why-is-it-a-good-time-to-buy-real-estate-in-costa-rica" target="_blank">Costa Rica real estate</a> and <b><a href="http://www.atenasrealestate.cr/index.php/costa-rica-vacation-rentals" target="_blank">home rentals in Atenas, Costa Rica</a>,</b> <b>contact</b> <a href="http://www.atenasrealestate.cr/" target="_blank">Pure Life Development of Atenas</a>. Easters and his Costa Rican partner, Gerardo Gonzalez, successfully help people find <b>new homes in</b> <b>Atenas, Costa Rica</b>, and live their dreams.</p><p> </p><p><b>Article by <a href="https://plus.google.com/u/0/+ShannonFarley/posts" target="_blank">Shannon Farley</a><br /></b></p></div>Own a home in a rainforest eco-community in Costa Ricahttps://tripatini.com/profiles/blogs/own-a-home-in-a-rainforest-eco-community-in-costa-rica2014-12-14T22:11:04.000Z2014-12-14T22:11:04.000ZShannon Farleyhttps://tripatini.com/members/ShannonFarley<div><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008907887,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img width="500" class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008907887,original{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="9008907887?profile=original" /></a>Have you always wanted to <b>live in the rainforest by a tropical beach</b>? Or are you looking for a <b>vacation home in a warm climate</b>? The special eco-community of <b><a href="http://portasol.cr/en/" target="_blank">Portasol Rainforest & Ocean View Living</a> in Costa Rica</b> is an excellent option.</p><p> </p><p><b>Strategically located on the <a href="http://www.portasol.cr/en/location.html" target="_blank">Costa Rica Central Pacific Coast</a></b> between <a href="http://www.portasol.cr/en/location/national-parks.html" target="_blank">Manuel Antonio National Park</a> and <b>Dominical,</b> the beautiful <a href="http://www.portasol.cr/en/community/responsability.html" target="_blank">sustainable development</a> encompasses <b>1,300 acres</b> of pure rainforest, streams, waterfalls, mountain ridges and sea views along the Portalón River Valley by <a href="http://www.portasol.cr/en/location/nearby-beaches.html" target="_blank">Matapalo Beach</a>.</p><p> </p><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008908261,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img width="400" class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008908261,original{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="9008908261?profile=original" /></a>The <b><a href="http://www.portasol.cr/en/community.html" target="_blank">Portasol eco-community</a> protects 65% of its land in conservation areas,</b> including a <b>200-acre </b><a href="http://www.portasol.cr/en/inside-portasol/bio-reserve.html" target="_blank">biological reserve.</a> There is a <b>gated entrance with 24-hour security</b>, a well-designed <b>gravel road system</b> with street lighting, a Reception building and dining area, office, a small spa and a <a href="http://www.portasol.cr/en/inside-portasol/la-cazuela-park.html" target="_blank">community park</a>. There are many <b>waterfalls</b> and <b>natural river swimming holes,</b> and Portasol also provides unique <a href="http://www.portasol.cr/en/lodging.html" target="_blank">Costa Rica vacation rentals</a>.</p><p> </p><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008908455,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008908455,original{{/staticFileLink}}" width="320" alt="9008908455?profile=original" /></a>Portasol offers <a href="http://www.portasol.cr/en/properties.html" target="_blank">Costa Rica land for sale</a> with <b>10 new building lots</b> and <b>nine <a href="http://www.portasol.cr/en/properties/lots-for-sale.html" target="_blank">homesites for resale</a></b>. Homesites vary from <b>jungle hideaways</b>, to being <b>river-side</b>, or with <b>sweeping views of the Pacific Coast</b> and the valley. Spacious lots range from <b>1.3 acres to 11 acres</b>, and in elevation from 250 feet up to 1,800 feet. <b>All lots are ready to build and have utilities services to the property line.</b> The development has a maximum of <a href="http://www.portasol.cr/en/properties/master-plan.html" target="_blank">180 residential lots planned</a>.</p><p> </p><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008908272,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img width="400" class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008908272,original{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="9008908272?profile=original" /></a>One of Portasol’s most fabulous <a href="http://www.portasol.cr/en/homes-for-sale-in-costa-rica-at-portasol-community.html" target="_blank">luxury homes is for sale</a>: “Casa Frondosa”, a gorgeous 8,073-square-foot luxury home on a promontory with extensive ocean views, designed by renowned Costa Rican architect Franz Beer Chaverri.</p><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008908095,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img width="450" class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008908095,original{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="9008908095?profile=original" /></a><br /> </p><p>As a <a href="http://www.portasol.cr/en/community.html" target="_blank">Costa Rica sustainable community</a>, Portasol adheres to <b>green development principles</b>. Only 15% of each <b>Costa Rica property for sale</b> can be used for any kind of construction, and the remaining 85% must be conserved in its natural state.</p><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008909093,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img width="400" class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008909093,original{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="9008909093?profile=original" /></a> </p><p>If <a href="https://www.facebook.com/portasol/" target="_blank">rainforest living</a> in the tropics appeals to you, <a href="http://www.portasol.cr/en/contac-us.html" target="_blank">contact Portasol Rainforest & Ocean View Living</a>.</p><p> </p><p><b>Article by <a href="https://plus.google.com/u/0/+ShannonFarley/posts" target="_blank">Shannon Farley</a><br /></b></p><p> </p></div>Why is it a good time to buy real estate in Costa Rica?https://tripatini.com/profiles/blogs/why-is-it-a-good-time-to-buy-real-estate-in-costa-rica2014-12-13T23:02:02.000Z2014-12-13T23:02:02.000ZShannon Farleyhttps://tripatini.com/members/ShannonFarley<div><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008906054,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img width="500" class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008906054,original{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="9008906054?profile=original" /></a>Is it a <b>good time to</b> <a href="http://www.atenasrealestate.cr/" target="_blank">buy real estate in Costa Rica</a>?</p><p> </p><p>According to real estate experts, it is. Costa Rica – one of the <b>hottest</b> <b>real estate markets in the Americas</b> in the early 2000s – <b>is coming back stronger than ever</b> after the economic slump throughout the United States and Latin America.</p><p> </p><p>“Costa Rica definitely has bounced back, especially in the Central Valley and the popular beach areas on the Pacific. Prices are on the rise again,” commented Dennis Easters, co-owner of <a href="http://www.atenasrealestate.cr/" target="_blank">Pure Life Development of Atenas real estate</a>.</p><p> </p><p><b><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008906255,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img width="500" class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008906255,original{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="9008906255?profile=original" /></a>Sellers now are more motivated</b> and <b>deals can be found</b> in Costa Rica, noted Easters, who belongs to the Costa Rica Global Association of Realtors, the Costa Rica Chamber of Realtors, and the U.S. National Association of Realtors.</p><p> </p><p><b>In <a href="http://costarica.com/atenas/" target="_blank">Atenas, Costa Rica</a>,</b> <a href="http://www.atenasrealestate.cr/index.php/costa-rica-homes-for-rental-and-sale" target="_blank">investing in real estate</a> has jumped in popularity again over the past three years. “Atenas continues to be really <a href="http://www.atenasrealestate.cr/index.php/articles/162-making-atenas-costa-rica-your-new-home" target="_blank">popular for its location and climate</a>, and land prices in Atenas generally keep increasing every year,” Easters remarked. “In real estate, the three most important things are the cliché: location, location, location!”</p><p> </p><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008906082,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img width="500" class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008906082,original{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="9008906082?profile=original" /></a>Located in the mountains where they fall away to the Central Pacific Coast, <b>Atenas</b> is <b>less than a one hour’s drive</b> <b>to the beach</b> and also from the <b>capital city of San Jose</b> to the east. Many neighborhoods in Atenas have <b>ocean and coastal views</b>, and the area is known for having the <b>“<a href="http://www.atenasrealestate.cr/index.php/articles/163-does-atenas-costa-rica-have-the-best-climate" target="_blank">best climate</a>.” Three main roadways</b> access Atenas, and the <b>Juan Santamaria international airport is only 30 minutes away</b>.</p><p> </p><p><b><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008906284,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img width="500" class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008906284,original{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="9008906284?profile=original" /></a>What are the</b> <b>benefits of <a href="http://www.atenasrealestate.cr/index.php/costa-rica-land-and-farms-for-sale" target="_blank">buying real estate in Atenas</a>?</b> Easters says: location, convenience, nice international and local community, good climate, low crime rate, high re-sell value, and <b>great</b> <a href="http://www.atenasrealestate.cr/index.php/articles/167-vacation-rentals-are-the-new-way-to-stay-in-atenas-costa-rica" target="_blank">vacation rental market</a>. “In Atenas, using your home as a vacation rental can help offset the cost of your vacation home so it pays for itself,” said Easters. Costa Rica has a stable economy and government, and no capital gains tax.</p><p> </p><p><a href="http://www.atenasrealestate.cr/" target="_blank">Pure Life Development of Atenas</a> specializes in <a href="http://www.atenasrealestate.cr/index.php/costa-rica-homes-for-rental-and-sale" target="_blank">real estate for sale</a> and <b><a href="http://www.atenasrealestate.cr/index.php/costa-rica-vacation-rentals" target="_blank">home rentals in Atenas, Costa Rica</a>;</b> contact Dennis Easters and his associate Gerardo Gonzalez-Porras.</p><p> </p><p><b>Article by <a href="https://plus.google.com/+ShannonFarley/posts" target="_blank">Shannon Farley</a><br /></b></p></div>Vacation rentals in Atenas, Costa Rica are the new way to stayhttps://tripatini.com/profiles/blogs/vacation-rentals-in-atenas-costa-rica-are-the-new-way-to-stay2014-11-15T23:29:00.000Z2014-11-15T23:29:00.000ZShannon Farleyhttps://tripatini.com/members/ShannonFarley<div><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008895073,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img width="500" class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008895073,original{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="9008895073?profile=original" /></a>Planning your next vacation? You might be used to staying in hotels and resorts, but maybe you should <b>consider vacation rentals</b>. More independent travelers are choosing to <b>rent private homes and apartments</b> these days instead of hotels, using websites like <a href="https://www.airbnb.com/" target="_blank">Airbnb</a> and <a href="http://www.vrbo.com/" target="_blank">VRBO</a>.</p><p> </p><p><b>Vacation rentals</b> are often the <b>most economic travel option for families and groups of friends</b>, giving more space and amenities at better value than a hotel room. Living like the locals also helps to give that <b>authentic travel experience</b>.</p><p> </p><p><b><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008895479,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img width="300" class="align-right" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008895479,original{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="9008895479?profile=original" /></a>What is a vacation rental? </b></p><p> </p><p>Vacation rentals are typically <b>privately-owned apartments or homes that are rented by the day, week or month</b>. They tend to be <b>second homes</b> for owners who live somewhere else and use the property for income and their own vacations. <b>M</b><b>ost</b> <b>vacation rentals are fully stocked</b> with towels, linens, all appliances, fully-equipped kitchens with the basics such as spices, cooking oil and coffee, once-weekly housekeeping, internet, cable TV, and a property manager who is on call 24/7. Other services often can be arranged at an extra cost, such as daily maid service, private cook, and transportation and area tours.</p><p> </p><p><b>Why are vacation rentals so popular over hotels? </b></p><p> </p><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008895691,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img width="300" class="align-left" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008895691,original{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="9008895691?profile=original" /></a>“In most cases, a vacation rental home is more economical. There is more space, a stocked kitchen, the ability to do laundry, more privacy, and the feeling of being ‘home’,” explained Florida native Dennis Easters, a world traveler living in Atenas, Costa Rica. “Also, a vacation rental allows you to live a bit more like the locals, even if for only a short time. </p><p> </p><p>“For the past five years or so, our family has only stayed in vacation rentals because this mode of lodging best fits our lifestyle. I like to wake up early, have a cup of coffee, check e-mails and go for a walk, all before everyone else rolls out of bed. In a traditional hotel, this is a challenge without waking everyone up. Another advantage is that with a home or apartment, you have enough room to spread out and have a break from one another after a long day of sightseeing.”</p><p> </p><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008896653,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img width="300" class="align-right" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008896653,original{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="9008896653?profile=original" /></a><a href="http://www.atenasrealestate.cr/index.php/costa-rica-vacation-rentals" target="_blank">Vacation rentals in Atenas, Costa Rica</a></p><p><b> </b></p><p>Over the past seven years, <b>vacation rentals have become very popular in Costa Rica</b>, said Easters, who is co-owner of <a href="http://www.atenasrealestate.cr/" target="_blank">Pure Life Development of Atenas real estate</a>. The charming mountain town of <a href="http://costarica.com/atenas/" target="_blank">Atenas, Costa Rica</a>, is a <a href="http://www.atenasrealestate.cr/index.php/articles/162-making-atenas-costa-rica-your-new-home" target="_blank">top place to retire</a> and is <b>popular for vacation rentals</b> for the same reasons<b>:</b> <b>location and climate</b>. Less than an hour’s drive away are the <b>capital city of San Jose</b> to the east and some of the <b>best Pacific Coast beaches</b> to the west. The San Jose international airport is only 30 minutes away, and Atenas is known for having the “<a href="http://www.atenasrealestate.cr/index.php/articles/163-does-atenas-costa-rica-have-the-best-climate" target="_blank">best climate in the world</a>.”</p><p> </p><p>Planning a <b>Costa Rica</b> <b>vacation</b> or looking to buy <a href="http://www.atenasrealestate.cr/index.php/costa-rica-land-and-farms-for-sale" target="_blank">real estate in Costa Rica</a>? Don’t miss <a href="http://www.atenasrealestate.cr/index.php/costa-rica-vacation-rentals" target="_blank">Atenas Costa Rica vacation rentals</a> and <a href="http://www.atenasrealestate.cr/index.php/costa-rica-homes-for-rental-and-sale" target="_blank">Atenas homes for sale</a>.</p><p> </p><p><b>Article by Shannon Farley</b></p></div>Paradise Calling - Real Estate Market Heats Up in Costa Ricahttps://tripatini.com/profiles/blogs/paradise-calling-real-estate-market-heats-up-in-costa-rica2012-12-27T15:35:00.000Z2012-12-27T15:35:00.000ZDanny Solano Alvarezhttps://tripatini.com/members/DannySolanoAlvarez<div><p>More than 700 miles of beach on Pacific and Caribbean coasts, warm water, tropical climate, lush rainforest and cloud forest, jungle wildlife, stable country, and friendly people – <strong>Costa Rica</strong> entices millions to visit every year.</p><p><a target="_blank" href="http://enchanting-costarica.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/RE-10-Nosara.jpg"><img class="align-left" src="http://enchanting-costarica.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/RE-10-Nosara-300x224.jpg?width=300" width="300" alt="RE-10-Nosara-300x224.jpg?width=300" /></a>If you live anywhere in the Americas, and most likely even in Europe, then you have heard the buzz about this Central American paradise. Maybe you’ve already visited and promised yourself you’d return. Maybe you’re still looking at websites and brochures, plotting your escape to a tranquil tropical beach. Wouldn’t it be nice, though, to have your own little slice of paradise and be able to come back again and again?</p><p>Tens of thousands of people from all over the world have made the jump to live in Costa Rica, whether permanently or part-time. The country has become a bit of a “melting pot” of colorful cultures over recent decades.</p><p>“Costa Rica is a great place to buy real estate at the moment because property values are going to maintain and steadily increase; the government is stable; the climate is great; there is an attraction here with the biodiversity for people from all over the world; and there are a lot of multinational investments,” commented Dennis Easters, co-owner and broker with <a title="Pure Life Development Real Estate Agency in Costa Rica" href="http://www.atenasrealestate.cr" target="_blank">Pure Life Development</a>, full-service real estate agency specializing in sales and rentals in Costa Rica. Easters moved to Costa Rica from Florida nearly a decade ago for an international lifestyle, and wholeheartedly encourages others to do the same if that dream calls to them.</p><p><a target="_blank" href="http://enchanting-costarica.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/RE-03-Jaco-condos-view-The-Palms.jpg"><img class="align-right" src="http://enchanting-costarica.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/RE-03-Jaco-condos-view-The-Palms-300x199.jpg?width=300" width="300" alt="RE-03-Jaco-condos-view-The-Palms-300x199.jpg?width=300" /></a>Easters reports that Costa Rica has become one of the hottest destinations for retirees from the United States and Canada over the past 10 years. Hugely popular websites such as <a title="We Love Costa Rica" href="http://www.welovecostarica.com/" target="_blank">WeLoveCostaRica.com</a>, <a title="Live in Costa Rica" href="http://www.liveincostarica.com/" target="_blank">LiveInCostaRica.com</a> and <a title="International Living" href="http://internationalliving.com/" target="_blank">InternationalLiving.com</a> attest to that. Many permanent foreign residents move to the capital city area of <strong>San Jose</strong> and the greater <strong>Central Valley</strong>, where infrastructure is very developed, high quality medical care and other services are close by, and elevation keeps the climate cooler. Coastal areas tend to be more popular with younger immigrants or those who actively seek the beach lifestyle, or as a vacation home investment.</p><p>“Costa Rica is a great investment for vacation rentals, because Costa Rica is a major tourist destination,” said Easters. “People realize they can rent a nice house all to themselves, with their own kitchen and private pool, for the same price as staying in a hotel. If you buy a house for a vacation rental, you can plan on having an 80% occupancy rate during high season from December to April.”</p><p><strong><a class="zem_slink" title="Jacó, Costa Rica" href="http://maps.google.com/maps?ll=9.61666666667,-84.6333333333&spn=0.1,0.1&q=9.61666666667,-84.6333333333%20(Jac%C3%B3%2C%20Costa%20Rica)&t=h" target="_blank">Jacó</a>, Central Pacific Coast, Costa Rica</strong></p><p>The popular beach town, with its consistent surf, fun beach-party atmosphere, well-developed infrastructure and new luxury condos, is one of the top beach destinations for foreigners moving to Costa Rica. The nearby world-class golf course, marina and resort community at <strong>Los Sueños Resort & Marina</strong> adds a posh level of luxury.</p><p>“<strong>Jacó</strong> is a great investment because it is so close to San Jose, only an hour on the Caldera Highway. Services and the community are well integrated between foreigners and Costa Ricans. It has a great variety of restaurants, new condo developments, and good social life,” commented Easters.</p><p><a target="_blank" href="http://enchanting-costarica.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/RE-02-Jaco-condos.jpg"><img class="align-left" src="http://enchanting-costarica.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/RE-02-Jaco-condos.jpg?width=300" width="300" alt="RE-02-Jaco-condos.jpg?width=300" /></a>Famous with surfers from all over the globe, one of Jacó’s more attractive elements for new residents are its newly-built beachfront high-rise condominium developments. Most beachfront land in Costa Rica is concession property, whereas in Jacó the properties are fully titled, which is very attractive to buyers, explains David Karr, <a title="David Karr Properties with Daystar in Costa Rica" href="http://davidkarrproperties.com/" target="_blank">Daystar Properties</a> sales representative in Jacó. The area is perfect for surfing and outdoors’ lifestyles, Karr said.</p><p>“Jacó and the Central Pacific remain one of the most desired areas for full-time living because of its central location and its amenities and services,” notes Karr. “With our warm temperatures and countless outdoor activities, the Jacó area is perfect for those looking for an active lifestyle. Here in Jacó you can walk downstairs, grab your surfboard, and go right into the water.”</p><p>Both Karr and Easters affirm that potential real estate buyers enjoy great opportunities now in Jacó. “Over the last 18 months, we are seeing buyers get good deals where people, due to economic conditions, needed to sell. There are definitely still opportunities, but if you’re thinking to buy, now is the time,” said Karr. Average prices for a two-bedroom, two-bath, fully furnished, beachfront condo is in the mid to high $200,000 range, according to Karr.</p><p><strong><a class="zem_slink" title="Nosara" href="http://maps.google.com/maps?ll=9.98333333333,-85.65&spn=0.1,0.1&q=9.98333333333,-85.65%20(Nosara)&t=h" target="_blank">Nosara</a>, <a class="zem_slink" title="Nicoya Peninsula" href="http://maps.google.com/maps?ll=10.0,-85.4166667&spn=1.0,1.0&q=10.0,-85.4166667%20(Nicoya%20Peninsula)&t=h" target="_blank">Nicoya Peninsula</a>, Guanacaste Coast, Costa Rica</strong></p><p><strong>Nosara</strong>, on Costa Rica’s <strong>Pacific Guanacaste coast</strong>, is a hidden paradise with no highways or even paved roads to bring in the masses. The cosmopolitan community there is known for its active and healthy lifestyles, natural diets, and its dedication to a slower, low stress, friends and family quality of life. Driving slowly on the dusty (or muddy) road into the area, you quickly notice that the community is composed of little hamlets of homes, small businesses and the occasional restaurant or hotel all hidden away in the jungle before the beach. More than half of the area is set aside for wildlife and preservation, including the <strong><a class="zem_slink" title="Ostional Wildlife Refuge" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ostional_Wildlife_Refuge" target="_blank">Ostional Wildlife Refuge</a></strong> to protect breeding Olive Ridley and Leatherback sea turtles. The result is an abundance of monkeys and other wildlife.</p><p><strong>Nosara’s pristine beaches</strong> – Playa Guiones, Playa Pelada, Playa Ostional and Playa Nosara – are perfect for those who want to get away from it all. Nosara is a praised surfing destination and home to a world-renowned yoga school. “Nosara has a big international community with residents from all over the world. It is off the beaten path, but it is unique in its isolation,” commented Easters. “There is the famous Nosara Yoga Institute, great surfing beaches and a relaxed atmosphere.”</p><p><strong><a target="_blank" href="http://enchanting-costarica.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/RE-12-Nosara.jpg"><img class="align-right" src="http://enchanting-costarica.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/RE-12-Nosara-300x198.jpg?width=300" width="300" alt="RE-12-Nosara-300x198.jpg?width=300" /></a></strong>Buying possibilities in the Nosara area include beach properties, coastal homes, hillside ocean-view homes and properties, and farm sales. Prices range from $65,000 for a hilltop lot to $1.89 million for a “spectacular ocean view villa,” according to Reef Realty, one of the main realtors in Nosara. You can easily find two-bedroom homes for under $200,000.</p><p><strong>Santa Teresa, Nicoya Peninsula, Costa Rica</strong></p><p>On the tip of <strong>Costa Rica’s Nicoya Peninsula, Santa Teresa Beach</strong> exudes an enchanting energy that will entrance you from the second you arrive. Renowned for being one of the top 10 beaches in the world, Santa Teresa’s natural beauty flaunts jungle that hugs the coastline, pouring down from coastal mountains to light sand beaches and crystal clear aquamarine sea.</p><p>You have to take a ferry from the mainland across the <a class="zem_slink" title="Gulf of Nicoya" href="http://maps.google.com/maps?ll=9.8,-84.8&spn=1.0,1.0&q=9.8,-84.8%20(Gulf%20of%20Nicoya)&t=h" target="_blank">Nicoya Gulf</a> to get to this area of the Nicoya Peninsula (or drive a really, really long way down from Guanacaste). “People like that because it keeps away the big crowds,” explains Bas Pecher, sales representative with <a title="Centry 21 Beach Area Properties in Costa Rica" href="http://tamborhills.com/costa-rica-real-estate.html" target="_blank">Century 21 Beach Area Properties</a> in nearby Playa Tambor. “A lot of people come to this area for its nature.” Close to Santa Teresa are the <strong>Cabo Blanco Absolute Nature Reserve</strong> and the <strong>Curú Wildlife Reserve</strong>.</p><p><a target="_blank" href="http://enchanting-costarica.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/RE-05-Santa-Teresa-home.jpg"><img class="align-left" src="http://enchanting-costarica.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/RE-05-Santa-Teresa-home-300x177.jpg?width=300" width="300" alt="RE-05-Santa-Teresa-home-300x177.jpg?width=300" /></a>The southern end of the Nicoya Peninsula lies in a nice middle zone between Costa Rica’s rainy southern Pacific Coast and the dry northern Guanacaste Coast. <strong>Epic surf and picture-perfect sunsets</strong> are its hallmark. “A lot of people have bought in this area for the surfing – the surfing is awesome. Also the laid-back feeling in this area is nice. It’s still not developed,” said Pecher. “And our sunsets are amazing!”</p><p>Pecher said that real estate sales in the area are picking up. “We have really high-end homes in the $600,000 up to $2.75 million range, down to quaint surfer’s cottages starting at $180,000 up to $260,000 with ocean views,” he said. “You can buy land and then build, or you can buy existing homes and vacation cottages. There are also gated residential communities.”</p><p>Once a sleepy fishing village, Santa Teresa is a fast-emerging tourism destination with a surprisingly diverse international community of native Costa Ricans, Israelis, Italians, North Americans, and everyone in between. “It’s a great place to buy an investment property for vacation rentals,” notes Pecher. “We have clients who come back every year to rent vacation homes.”</p><p><strong>Check out Costa Rica on a Surfing Vacation</strong></p><p><a target="_blank" href="http://enchanting-costarica.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/Del-Mar-04-Bahia-Encantada.jpg"><img class="align-left" src="http://enchanting-costarica.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/Del-Mar-04-Bahia-Encantada-300x135.jpg?width=300" width="300" alt="Del-Mar-04-Bahia-Encantada-300x135.jpg?width=300" /></a>A great way to come check out Costa Rica’s real estate possibilities is on one of <a title="Del Mar Surf Camp in Costa Rica" href="http://www.delmarsurfcamp.com/" target="_blank"><strong>Del Mar Surf Camp’s</strong></a> Costa Rica surf vacation packages or yoga-surf retreats. Based on Hermosa Beach on Costa Rica’s Central Pacific Coast, just south of the bustling beach town of Jacó, Del Mar Surf Camp specializes in surf vacations, yoga-surf retreats, and day surf lessons for adults, women only and families. They offer locations on Nosara Beach, Santa Teresa Beach and Hermosa/Jaco beaches, for beginners, intermediate or advanced surfers.</p><p><strong>Del Mar Surf Camp</strong> offers new <a title="Del Mar Surf Camp's Summer Specials 2013" href="http://www.delmarsurfcamp.com/packages/summer-camps/" target="_blank"><strong>Summer Specials packages</strong></a>, with great discounts, to celebrate their 10<sup>th</sup> anniversary in 2013. Domestic flights and transfers to all of Del Mar’s locations are included in all surf vacation packages.</p><p>By Shannon Farley</p></div>