known as one of the best places for a relaxing vacation is losing middle-class U.S driven by a stronger local currency and inflation have shifted the country toward an exclusive A Yahoo Finance report, “5 Vacation Expenses the Middle Class Can’t Afford Anymore,” highlights this trend. “Costa Rica was once known as a budget-friendly destination. However, a combination of currency shifts and inflation has pushed vacation costs far beyond what many middle-class travelers can afford,” the article stated. Casey Halloran, CEO and co-founder of Costa Rican Vacations “What we are observing in our statistics is that the middle-class traveler to Costa Rica has all but vanished it is difficult to vacation here for under $2,000.” Halloran noted that the average vacation cost, excluding flights, has risen from $5,500 in 2022 to $7,800. This has led U.S. tourists to choose cheaper destinations like Panama or the Dominican Republic or to shorten trips “We are also seeing a shift to shorter stays sometimes as little as just four nights versus the more traditional seven-night stay what we hear from many who experience sticker shock at seeing one of our quotes is they simply choose to stay home,” he added The Costa Rican Tourism Institute (ICT) reported a 10% decline in U.S with 1.4 million arrivals compared to 1.56 million in 2023 has increased costs by 15–20% for Americans per the National Chamber of Tourism (CANATUR) “The exchange rate is hurting our competitiveness Tourists are choosing places where their dollars stretch further.” Security issues compound the problem. The Judicial Investigation Agency (OIJ) recorded 907 homicides in 2023, 880 in 2024, and 225 in early 2025, mostly drug-related. Over 6,300 tourists faced crimes like theft and assault from 2020 to 2024, prompting U.S. and Canadian Level 2 travel advisories for increased caution. A recent car robbery gained international attention contributing 8.2% to GDP and 8.8% to employment supports rural areas like Guanacaste and Limón CANATUR projects a 15–20% arrival drop in 2025 A Nosara hotel reported a 25% booking decline families aren’t coming as before,” a manager told La Nación CANATUR seeks exchange rate intervention but Central Bank President Róger Madrigal cites reduced U.S flights (down 10% in 2025) and competition from Panama Tourism Minister William Rodríguez pushes high-end tourism “Focusing on wealthier visitors ignores the middle-class market that built our industry.” Health risks like 1,900 dengue cases in 2025 and shellfish toxin bans are minor but noted like @armandomayorga’s mention of $7,800 vacations With Panama and the Dominican Republic drawing U.S Costa Rica’s tourism industry urges policy changes to restore affordability and safety and a historic police wage increase announced in July 2024 to address corruption and boost morale Chaves also issued an executive decree in October 2024 allowing law enforcement to use automatic weapons in specific situations Despite these efforts, Costa Rica’s homicide rates have reached unprecedented levels during Chaves’ tenure According to the Judicial Investigation Agency (OIJ) the country recorded 907 homicides in 2023 translating to a rate of 17.2 per 100,000 residents a slight 3.36% decrease from the same period in 2023 yet still reflecting one murder every nine hours and “settling of scores” linked to drug trafficking accounts for roughly two-thirds of these killings The surge in violence is largely attributed to the expansion of local and transnational drug trafficking networks strategically located between cocaine-producing countries like Colombia and markets in the United States and Europe has become a key transshipment and warehousing hub and disloyalties within criminal groups have fueled brutal crimes and San José report the highest homicide rates with Limón’s rate exceeding 33 per 100,000 in 2023 Public and official reactions underscore the disconnect between Chaves’ claims and reality A 2024 survey by the Center for Research and Political Studies (CIEP) found that 41.8% of Costa Ricans view insecurity as our nation’s top issue have criticized the administration’s response noting that over 2,000 homicides have occurred since Chaves took office in May 2022 Arias emphasized that while the Assembly has passed 28 security-related laws Chaves has faced additional scrutiny for downplaying the crisis and deflecting blame he dismissed the homicide surge as primarily drug-related and he has repeatedly criticized the judiciary and legislature for hindering security reforms International cooperation has been a cornerstone of Chaves’ strategy Chaves secured support for enhanced DEA and FBI collaboration and technology to combat drug trafficking The death of OIJ officer Geiner Zamora during this visit Chaves called for tougher laws against hitmen and traffickers “Those who threaten our society must be sent to jail and stay there.” COSTA RICA'S LEADING ENGLISH LANGUAGE NEWSPAPER Costa Rica has long been a beacon of democracy in Latin America, with a proud history of protecting press freedom. But the 2025 World Press Freedom Index by Reporters Without Borders (RSF) paints a worrying picture: our country has slipped 10 spots This marks the fourth year in a row of declines a stark contrast to our peak at 5th place in 2021 Let’s dive into the reasons behind Costa Rica’s drop and what this means for Ticos and the media we rely on According to RSF, the main culprit is a series of verbal attacks by government officials against journalists and media outlets like La Nación and Teletica his administration has been criticized for targeting the press with harsh rhetoric accusing outlets of obstructing governance A 2023 Constitutional Chamber ruling even found Chaves guilty of violating press freedom through these attacks Another blow came from a 2022 government directive—confirmed by leaked audio in December 2023—to withhold state advertising from critical media a move seen as economic pressure to silence dissent journalists have faced growing online harassment including death threats from pro-government trolls RSF also notes restricted access to public information with some state entities stonewalling media requests While Costa Rica remains a safe haven for journalists compared to other Latin American countries—no physical threats or imprisonments here—these political and economic pressures have taken a toll The RSF Index evaluates five indicators (political and Costa Rica’s political score has seen the sharpest decline Costa Rica still leads Latin America in press freedom classified as having a “fairly good situation”—the only country in the region to earn this status Nicaragua’s situation is particularly dire with the Ortega-Murillo regime dismantling independent media forcing outlets like Divergentes to operate from exile El Salvador’s Nayib Bukele has been accused of using spyware to target reporters while Argentina’s Javier Milei has shut down the country’s largest news agency but the downward trend is a wake-up call for a country that prides itself on democratic values Costa Rica’s decline mirrors a troubling global trend For the first time since RSF launched the Index in 2002 the global press freedom situation is classified as “difficult.” Over 60% of countries saw their scores drop with half now rated as “difficult” or “very serious” for journalism with Donald Trump’s second term (starting January 2025) intensifying attacks on media including funding cuts to outlets like Voice of America Economic pressures are also a growing threat with newsrooms worldwide shutting down due to ownership concentration and dwindling ad revenue RSF points to political pressure as the biggest driver with a global 7.6-point drop in the political indicator From Argentina’s media crackdowns to Nicaragua’s outright censorship governments are increasingly failing to protect journalists’ autonomy Even top-ranked countries like Norway (1st) and Denmark (2nd) saw their political scores slip now faces the challenge of reversing this slide to reclaim its reputation as a press freedom leader Costa Rica’s legal framework and cultural respect for free speech are still strong it’s worth asking: How can we support our journalists and hold leaders accountable for respecting press freedom When passengers step out of the arrivals’ terminal at Costa Rica’s Juan Santamaría International Airport there’s a chance they’ll be greeted by what is a rare sight in Central America: an electric taxi.  The bright red sedans—of which there are six—whir passengers to the nearby Costa Rican capital and other parts of the country.    “It is vital that we address transportation emissions,” says Carlos Manuel Rodríguez CEO and Chairperson of the Global Environment Facility “Electric mobility can improve citizens’ quality of life while also modernizing public transport systems.”  Costa Rica’s electric taxi project is not merely about airport transportation—it serves as a testing ground to evaluate the performance and costs of electric vehicles in real-world operations That’s an important step towards scaling up electric transport nationwide and achieving Costa Rica’s national decarbonization plans Executive Director of CRUSA.    Costa Rica’s embrace of renewable energy makes it uniquely positioned for success in the electric transport sector, say observers. Over 95 per cent of the country’s electricity comes from renewable sources.   “Coupled with renewable energy and technical capacity Costa Rica is fertile ground for scaling electric mobility,” says Roberto Urcuyo a researcher at the University of Costa Rica.   The project is also paving the way for greater inclusivity Three of the electric taxis at the airport are driven by women signalling progress in gender equality within the traditionally male-dominated taxi industry “Taking this step is a way to encourage and motivate other women to participate in this sector,” says Erica Cordero one of the three female e-taxi drivers in the pilot project.   This emphasis on inclusivity aligns with the project’s broader vision of a socially equitable transition to electric transport.    Costa Rica’s plans include expanding the initiative to other modes of public transport.   “We are not stopping at taxis,” explains Carlos Ávila Arquin Vice Minister of Land Transport and Road Safety in Costa Rica “We are working hard to achieve electric buses soon and encourage drivers nationwide to transition to [electric vehicles].”   The initiative is one of 50 electric mobility projects supported by the Global Environment Facility It demonstrates how support for transitioning to electric mobility can simultaneously lower emissions foster social equality and modernize public transport systems who hope Costa Rica could one day serve as an example to its neighbours.   “I believe it would be wonderful for the entire country if everyone could switch to electric taxis,” says Maria Santamaria “Technology can help foster sustainability and Costa Rica is showing the way forward.”   For more information about the UNEP-backed project, officially titled Accelerating the move to electric buses in Costa Rica, contact Asher Lessels (Asher.Lessels@un.org)  UNEP's work is made possible by the Member States that contribute to the Environment Fund, UNEP’s core fund that enables its global body of work. Learn how to support UNEP to invest in people and planet About the Global Environment Facility  The Global Environment Facility (GEF) is a multilateral fund dedicated to confronting biodiversity loss and policy support helps developing countries address their biggest environmental priorities and adhere to international environmental conventions the GEF has provided more than US$22 billion in financing and mobilized another US$120 billion for more than 5,000 national and regional projects The Sectoral Solution to the climate crisis         UNEP is at the forefront of supporting the Paris Agreement goal of keeping global temperature rise well below 2°C, and aiming for 1.5°C, compared to pre-industrial levels. To do this, UNEP has developed the Sectoral Solution a roadmap to reducing emissions across sectors in line with the Paris Agreement commitments and in pursuit of climate stability The six sectors identified are: energy; industry; agriculture and food; forests and land use; transport; and buildings and cities © 2025 UNEP Terms of Use Privacy Report Project Concern Report Scam Contact Us By: Lianna Albrizio In an exclusive partnership with Hacienda AltaGracia, Costa Rica’s Auberge Resorts Collection, Estée Lauder is debuting its first Skin Longevity Institute in the Americas within Casa de Agua Spa Located adjacent to one of the world’s five “Blue Zones,” regions recognized for their high-concentration of centenarians Hacienda AltaGracia offers a transformative journey grounded in trusted longevity practices The experience-led programming and immersive treatments are designed to awaken vitality restore balance and reconnect guests with the simple joys of life inspired by the resort’s natural surroundings “We couldn’t be more excited for the opening of the Estée Lauder Skin Longevity Institute at Hacienda AltaGracia When we launched our Skin Longevity platform here more than a year ago we knew that it was just the beginning,” said Justin Boxford “Hacienda AltaGracia is truly a place unlike any other honoring the rich local culture and lifestyle practices while providing guests with unparalleled luxury experiences and high-touch service both of which are at the heart of the Estée Lauder brand Through exclusive age reversal skincare treatments and holistic wellness activations the Skin Longevity Institute will provide the ultimate elevated Estée Lauder experience for guests all inspired by our expertise in skin longevity science.” Anchored by more than 15 years of skin longevity research the Estée Lauder Skin Longevity Institute at Hacienda AltaGracia fuses luxury Re-Nutriv skincare powered cutting-edge skin longevity science we are constantly exploring meaningful ways to support our guests on their personal journey toward living well,” said Vivianne Garcia-Tunon “The launch of the Estée Lauder Skin Longevity Institute at Hacienda AltaGracia represents an exciting evolution of our immersive well-being programming—seamlessly integrating advanced skincare and the restorative power of our natural surroundings This partnership offers our guests a truly unique opportunity to feel vibrant Estée Lauder has added three new Re-Nutriv facial treatments to its existing offerings combining the brand’s patented SIRTIVITY-LP age reversal technology with rare precious ingredients and high-touch rituals Each treatment is designed to deliver customized results estheticians will utilize the EstéeLab Skin Pro to analyze skin and develop a customized facial protocol for guests Hacienda AltaGracia will host top wellness practitioners for onsite residences offering customized programming grounded in longevity principles For the May opening of the Skin Longevity Institute, two members of Estée Lauder’s Longevity Collective will be in residence at Hacienda AltaGracia: Mind Coach and Mindful Movement Practitioner will host sessions tailored to unlocking new depths of longevity and well-being through energetic healing modalities rejuvenating breathwork and mindful movement Devgun also created a custom meditation that will be incorporated into the beginning of each Re-Nutriv treatment at the Skin Longevity Institute Crystal Greene, esthetician and Estée Lauder Global Re-Nutriv Skincare Ambassador will provide bespoke treatments that combine luxury Re-Nutriv skincare with her signature facial techniques to deliver the ultimate transformative experience for guests Additional residencies will be announced in the coming months Use of this constitutes acceptance of our privacy policy The material on this site may not be reproduced except with the prior written permission of Rodman Media Edited byKari Molvar The best all-inclusive resorts in Costa Rica allow travelers to enjoy meals cocktails and excursions all wrapped up into one rate Some of these properties are traditional all-inclusive resorts All of them make it easy for travelers to immerse themselves in the country’s mantra of “pura vida” (meaning Lobby at Hacienda AltaGracia, Auberge Resorts Collection. Exterior of Botanika Osa Peninsula, Curio Collection By Hilton in Costa Rica's Osa Peninsula. A pristine beachfront and three pools give guests plenty of options—as do the five restaurants that serve everything from sushi to pizza. It’s easy to spend an entire day sipping piña coladas by the infinity pool, which overlooks the palm-lined coast between Manuel Antonio to the Osa Peninsula. The property is situated next to a quiet beach on the country’s northwest Pacific coast and caters to couples and groups with its “unlimited luxury." The lounge at Andaz Costa Rica Resort at Peninsula Papagayo. Gorgeous views of the Gulf of Nicoya, lush gardens, and a tranquil Feng Shui-informed design combine to create an idyllic atmosphere. The JW Marriott Hotel Guanacaste Resort & Spa boasts breathtaking sunset views and direct access to the golden-sand Playa Mansita Offering breathtaking sunset views and direct access to Playa Mansita JW Marriott Hotel Guanacaste Resort & Spa is one of the best beachfront resorts in Tamarindo The property’s all-inclusive meal and beverage plans allow guests to engage all their senses at the five restaurants and three bars And with a range of amenities including a spa a massive infinity pool (and a smaller one for little ones) surf beaches and an 18-hole golf course neighbor the property volcanoes and waterfalls can also be arranged All of the property’s 310 rooms have balconies but it’s worth upgrading to an oceanview room to make the most of the scenic location The Forbes Vetted travel team has researched, written and published dozens of hotel guides featuring cities across the globe We selected the top contenders based on personal stays as well as extensive research My name is Astrid Taran and I’m the senior travel editor at Forbes Vetted I have reported on travel for almost a full decade as both a writer and editor Along with extensively covering hotels and airlines I have also written multiple destination guides as well as long-form features on luxury travel Costa Rica is one of my favorite travel destinations thanks to its expansive nature and adventure offerings plus its beautiful With the result, the USA (1-0-1; 4 pts.) stays on top of Group B heading into Thursday’s group stage finale against Canada (7 p.m. ET; Concacaf YouTube), with a draw or a win against Les Rouges (1-1-0; 3 pts.) ensuring advancement to Saturday’s crucial World Cup qualifying semifinal. With just over eight minutes left, Martin and Ciltali Luna combined well to press in on the Costa Rica defense, forcing a clearance straight to Carlie Banks, but the U.S. captain’s first-time effort rode just over the cross bar. Costa Rica kept the U.S. on its toes with five minutes left, as a combination down the right flank gave Taitana Cascante an open look, but her low effort slid through the penalty area and just past the left post. After some back-and-forth physical play, time wound down and the USA went into the locker room with a 1-0 advantage at halftime. As he did in the tournament’s opening match, U.S. head coach Diego Burato inserted Martha Lord in goal for Ellie Goodrich to begin the second half and at the other end, the USA pressed for a second goal. It came just over three minutes in as Fieldsend went on a dazzling run forward and drew two Costa Rica defenders into the middle before playing a backheel for Martin who powered her second of the match – and tournament-leading fifth goal – past Mendez with 16:51 left. Costa Rica finally broke through with 8:07 remaining. Following a free kick on the edge of the penalty area, the ball was recycled out before Yerlin Varela drove in on the left and placed a low effort past Lord. In search of an equalizer, Costa Rica deployed the flying goalkeeper – giving them an extra attacker — with about two minutes remaining. The USA‘s defensive posture stood strong, but with 14 seconds remaining, Priscila Torres’ shot from distance was redirected by Cascante from close range, and trickled over the goal line to help Las Ticas earn a 2-2 draw and a still-valuable point for both teams. Match: United States Futsal Women’s National Team vs. Honduras Competition: 2025 Concacaf W Futsal Championship – Group B Venue: Domo Polideportivo; Guatemala City, Guatemala USA: USA: 12-Ellie Goodrich; 5-Jeanette Fieldsend, 6-Sarah Martin, 11-Carlie Banks (Capt.), 13-Citlali LunaSubstitutes: 1-Martha Lord, 2-Jordan Felton, 3-Viet-Thy Tran, 4-Ashley Henderson, 7-Emanuelly Ferreira, 8-Hayley Wilson, 10-Paige Pierson, 14-Kiersen KorienekDid not play: 8-Hayley WilsonNot available: 9-Janae BraunHead coach: Diego Burato CRC: 13-Genesis Mendez; 3-Roxiny Lopez (Capt.), 9-Tatiana Cascante, 10-Ariel Barquero, 12-Melissa JimenezSubstitutes: 2-Fabiola Ramirez, 4-Allison Murillo, 5-Paula Aguilar, 6-Mariela Solis, 7-Priscila Torres, 8-Karol Arias, 11-Yerlin Varela, 14-Mariela AlfaroDid not play: 1-Maria Jose ArceHead coach: Alexander Ramos CRC – Yerlin Varela (Caution) 3:27 (1st Period) Please enable JS and disable any ad blocker A report prepared by the Legislative Assembly cited by local media outlet El Observador last week concluded that rising insecurity in Costa Rica is undermining tourism activity a critical economic sector contributing 8.2% to GDP If Costa Rican authorities do not take immediate action compromising tourist arrivals and the country’s global reputation The Costa Rican Tourism Institute (ICT) reported a 13.8% decline in tourist arrivals from September 2024 to March 2025 After eight months of work, the Special Tourism Commission of Congress issued a majority report documenting a significant increase in criminal activity and violence in key regions according to the Judicial Investigation Agency (OIJ) The report identified “critical areas” in five provinces: San José’s central region known for petty theft; La Fortuna in San Carlos Alajuela; Tamarindo and Playas del Coco in Guanacaste facing an 18% homicide rise; Puerto Viejo and Cahuita in Limón hubs for drug-related violence; and Puntarenas Centro Five main factors aggravate insecurity in these tourist destinations often linked to drug trafficking by cartels like Colombia’s Clan del Golfo with Costa Rica’s absence of a military exacerbating challenges inadequate video surveillance and patrols hinder monitoring gentrification—displacement of local communities by foreign investment—raises living costs Embassy’s Level 2 Advisory (December 2024) and Canada’s March 2025 alert The Legislative Assembly warned that “loss of competitiveness due to security concerns and erosion of Costa Rica’s peaceful reputation may take decades to recover.” CANATUR noted that 62% of U.S tourists cited safety concerns as a reason for choosing other destinations Tourism Minister William Rodríguez countered that no evidence links insecurity to declining tourism(?) He claimed the ICT’s safety perception metrics remain stable This stance contrasts with CANATUR’s concerns and international advisories urging caution in areas like Cahuita and Cóbano Positive steps offer hope. In 2024, CANATUR and Public Security signed a cooperation agreement to enhance tourist safety through joint patrols and training are increasing flights for the 2025-2026 high season signaling confidence in Costa Rica’s appeal with reduced air connectivity—8% fewer seats at Juan Santamaría Airport and 19% at Daniel Oduber Airport— the tourism industry here urges stronger action to restore Costa Rica’s reputation as a safe destination Edited byDave Johnson The best resorts in Costa Rica allow travelers to immerse themselves in the country’s famously laid-back way of life From zip-lining adventures through the jungle to enjoying delicious locally-grown coffee these properties spotlight the country’s incredible biodiversity by building experiences around its awe-inspiring flora and fauna Guest room at Four Seasons Resort Costa Rica At Peninsula Papagayo Guest room at Nekajui, A Ritz-Carlton Reserve Exterior of Santarena Hotel in Las Catalinas, Costa Rica. Exterior view of accommodation at Hotel Aguas Claras. Suite at Silvestre Nosara Hotel And Residences. La Brisas pool area at Hacienda AltaGracia, Auberge Resorts Collection. Villa with plunge pool at Casa Chameleon at Las Catalinas. Honeymoon suite with plunge pool at Tabacón Thermal Resort And Spa. Taking a cue from the ultra-luxe safari lodges in Africa and Asia Nayara Tented Camp offers travelers a glamping experience with all the plush comforts of a high-end hotel and expansive terraces with plunge pools and views of the Arenal Volcano Adventure lovers in particular will feel at home here—from white water rafting and traversing hanging bridges to walking across a dried lava bed there are no shortage of adrenaline-pumping activities to take part in And for those eager to excite their palate there’s a slew of gastronomy experiences—from mixology classes and coffee cupping sessions to elaborate dinners at the Mediterranean restaurant We update this story regularly to monitor the best resorts in Costa Rica for 2025 including the newest properties that are worth a look I have covered travel for almost a full decade as both a writer and editor Along with extensively writing about hotels and airlines Costa Rica is one of my favorite travel destinations thanks to its expansive nature and adventure offerings alongside its beautiful has implemented stringent new regulations for inmates in maximum-security prisons drawing inspiration from El Salvador’s controversial anti-gang crackdown led by President Nayib Bukele announced by the Ministry of Justice and Peace impose significant restrictions on family visits prompting widespread criticism and protests Justice and Peace Minister Gerald Campos defended the measures at a press conference emphasizing the need to curb contraband and restore order in the penitentiary system “This government is concerned about the fundamental rights of victims and of all citizens who comply with and respect the rights of others,” Campos stated He clarified that the reforms target “intimate visits” rather than conjugal ones citing instances where inmates reportedly received visits from multiple partners insisted the policy is not driven by vengeance but by a commitment to public safety “No one is taking away the rights of people deprived of liberty,” he said The press conference included mothers and relatives of femicide victims who shared personal stories to underscore the government’s focus on victims’ rights Campos acknowledged that multiple appeals have been filed with the Constitutional Chamber particularly to protect conjugal visit rights signaling potential legal challenges ahead The reforms have sparked significant backlash Approximately 1,000 inmates across Costa Rican prisons initiated a hunger strike to protest the restrictions particularly the limits on conjugal visits In April families of inmates protested outside La Reforma prison denouncing the measures as violations of human rights Human rights organizations and opposition figures have voiced strong objections The Costa Rican Association of Social Workers warned that the reforms could set back decades of progress in human rights arguing they disproportionately harm an already vulnerable population Opposition lawmaker Priscilla Vindas of the Frente Amplio party condemned the measures as part of a broader “dehumanization” of inmates calling for a reevaluation of the policy’s impact on prisoners’ well-being have drawn parallels to El Salvador’s repressive prison policies raising concerns about the regional trend of adopting harsh measures without sufficient oversight Critics argue that the restrictions on communication and family contact could hinder rehabilitation and violate international human rights standards The government’s adoption of the Bukele model, which includes mass incarcerations and reduced inmate privileges, has fueled debate about balancing security and human rights. While supporters credit Bukele’s approach with reducing gang violence in El Salvador detractors warn of its authoritarian overtones and potential to erode democratic protections Although Costa Rica has a high life expectancy questions have arisen about the quality of life in our country when people with heart diseases that require surgery go to the social security system for an operation Data from the Costa Rican Social Security Fund (CCSS) shows that this is the approximate wait time for patients at Hospital Mexico to receive cardiovascular surgery especially since the population is aging much faster than expected which for decades showed a broad base of young people and a narrow top of older adults This demographic change is not simply a statistical phenomenon; it is a structural transformation that significantly impacts the healthcare system At the same time, life expectancy is one of the highest in Latin America with an average age of 81 years and a low mortality rate of six per 1,000 inhabitants While this is an achievement that reflects decades of investment in public health and quality of life it also represents a major challenge: people are living longer but the last years of life are often spent with chronic diseases and a high demand for specialized medical care “We are living longer but not necessarily better,” warned Dr former director of the National Children’s Hospital which is the backbone of the right to healthcare in Costa Rica is facing a vicious cycle: fewer personnel Meanwhile, hundreds of Costa Ricans continue to wait for an appointment, for an operation, and for answers. The vast majority of the population does not have access to private healthcare due to the high costs involved the alternatives for receiving treatments or operations are limited or nonexistent There may be a delay in becoming part of the regional team currently has only about 15,000 criminals under lock and key But they are working hard to fill all that empty space as Bukele is currying favor with the powers that be in Gringolandia to receive whatever tattooed flotsam is sent his way Building a walled city to imprison violent gangbangers seems a little risky for Costa Rica Our neighbors in Central America have decades of experience with war and gangs and the harsh punishment meted out is retribution for the years of life under the violent barrio-by-barrio rule of gangs such as MS-13 hardened criminals together in a giant prison here in Ticolandia sounds like the plot of a bad action/terror movie It does not take a lot of imagination to foresee a disastrous scenario where the gangs all unify behind the walls running wild and unchecked from the Caribbean to the Pacific I would have something different in mind for Costa Rica. Just as El Salvador had to crush gangs in order to restore order for their law-abiding citizens Costa Rica should also go after the most visible group of gangs responsible for ripping off the hard-working citizenry for their own financial benefit to the many white collar criminals found throughout the country with their grubby hands in every municipality and every governmental organization No need to name names here—due to Costa Rica’s strict libel laws that seemingly protect these same crooks who feed from the public coffers I will leave it up to the reader to decide which well-known names I have in mind As our country has no shortage of these criminals in coats and ties the prison we build would be large and have space not only for the homegrown variety we could offer prison space for those well-heeled convicts throughout the Americas What an economic boon it could be for our country Not only would other countries pay us to take in their lawbreakers but we could also craft tour packages for the families of the incarcerated to come and enjoy our beautiful country while visiting their loved ones in our sparkling new secure facility Like the medical tourism packages that entice people to come here and get their teeth fixed for a quarter of the price stateside while also taking some tours this would be a chance for a new revenue stream that could bring in millions of dollars annually here is hoping that we are already on the phone with Beijing for this new project a longtime bedrock of our national economy with visitor arrivals dropping for seven consecutive months A strong colón and persistent safety concerns remain key factors undermining the country’s standing as a top travel destination Central Bank of Costa Rica (BCCR) President Róger Madrigal has acknowledged that the exchange rate is likely contributing to the sustained tourism downturn but we shouldn’t focus exclusively on the exchange rate as a wrong diagnosis could lead to inappropriate measures,” Madrigal said He indicated that intervening in the exchange market could disrupt other economic sectors despite ongoing appeals from the tourism industry for action The appreciated colón is placing significant pressure on tourism businesses hoteliers have increased prices by up to 15% to offset losses potentially deterring budget-conscious travelers The sector’s repeated requests for exchange rate adjustments have yet to be addressed with authorities prioritizing broader economic stability Persistent safety concerns are also driving tourists away A National Chamber of Tourism (CANATUR) survey found that 62% of prospective U.S tourists cited safety as a reason for choosing destinations like Belize or Mexico Official data reports 880 homicides in 2024 A high-profile robbery near Tamarindo in early April 2025 has further damaged Costa Rica’s reputation Critics contend that the government has not sufficiently tackled tourist safety The Ministry of Public Security’s budget reportedly prioritizes urban areas over coastal regions like Limón and Puntarenas No comprehensive plan to address the ongoing rise in violence has been announced The industry is also grappling with a 10% reduction in U.S airline seats to Costa Rica in Q1 2025 compared to 2024 limiting access for North American visitors benefiting from lower costs and perceived safety Tourism Minister William Rodríguez has urged businesses to adapt by adjusting pricing strategies Coastal communities like Quepos and Nosara have reported a 20% drop in tourism-related employment since September 2024 with two daily flights on Mondays and Saturdays using the Airbus A350 driven by strong demand from French and Dutch travelers The euro’s relative stability against the colón may make Costa Rica more affordable for Europeans while the Costa Rica’s appeal as a sustainable nature-based destination continues to attract this market the tourism industry here continues to press for urgent measures to restore Costa Rica’s broader competitive position Costa Rica’s largest pop culture convention Running through Sunday the event is expected to attract thousands of fans for a weekend celebrating film MegaCon 2025 features a diverse roster of guests Organizers confirmed that Elijah Wood canceled his appearance due to filming commitments Other notable attendees include Tom Welling of Smallville iconic for his role as Quico in El Chavo del 8 Latin American voice actors Luis Carreño (SpongeBob SquarePants) alongside Costa Rican illustrator Daniela Padilla and Marvel comics artist Sam de la Rosa with SWAU Authentication verifying collectibles for fans The convention opened last night with the Mega International Geek Comedy Festival Hosted by Minor Pérez and featuring Costa Rica’s La Media Docena the event celebrates Latin American comedy attendees can explore the Cosplay Master Cup offering over $5,000 in prizes and a chance to represent Costa Rica at Animole in Mexico City and an Artist Alley showcasing over 40 Costa Rican artists such as Territorio Zaguates and Fundación AMY MegaCon 2025 earned Carbon Clear Events accreditation for its sustainable practices the Stage Kids Fun City offers magic shows creating an inclusive environment for young fans Tickets, available online, include General Admission and VIP packages with VIP perks like early entry and exclusive merchandise Discounts are offered for Promerica cardholders and Fuerza Pública families Recent studies by Costa Rica’s Sistema Nacional de Áreas de Conservación (SINAC) have revealed a significant uptick in jaguar sightings within Corcovado National Park, a biodiversity hotspot on the Osa Peninsula. Data collected through an extensive network of camera traps indicate a rebound in the jaguar population a promising sign attributed to robust environmental protection measures and collaborative conservation efforts in partnership with organizations like JaguarOsa has utilized camera traps for over a decade to monitor terrestrial mammals showed a female jaguar named Coral with her cub suggesting successful reproduction within the park described the sighting as a “signal of hope,” indicating that jaguars are not only surviving but thriving potentially leading to more cubs in the near future consistent records of jaguar reproduction have bolstered optimism among researchers Experts credit this resurgence to effective anti-poaching patrols and community engagement with nearby areas like San Juan and Rancho Quemado These efforts have helped maintain a high diversity of prey species Preliminary data in 2023 also suggest that Corcovado’s ecological integrity measured by species diversity and energy transfer However, challenges persist. Illegal hunting of prey species like peccaries has historically reduced jaguar numbers and experts like Víctor Hugo Montalvo note that jaguar presence in Corcovado has been harder to detect over the past 15 years compared to pumas jaguars face threats from habitat loss and human-wildlife conflict with populations fragmented across their range from Mexico to Argentina ongoing conservation is critical to sustaining this positive trend Costa Rica will serve as the filming location for the tenth season of ABC’s Bachelor in Paradise with production scheduled to start this summer known for its rose ceremonies and romantic storylines is moving from its previous location in Sayulita marking a new chapter for the series and highlighting the country’s appeal as a destination for film and television projects ABC announced the decision this month choosing Costa Rica over Mexico’s Playa Escondida Resort where the show was filmed for nine seasons contestants often noted issues like heat and lack of air conditioning “Costa Rica offers a fresh setting,” said host Jesse Palmer in an Us Weekly interview which adds a new dynamic.” The specific filming site has not been confirmed but a resort in Guanacaste or the Nicoya Peninsula is likely given their beachfront locations and amenities filming is set to begin the week of April 28 Bachelor in Paradise features contestants from The Bachelor and The Bachelorette seeking new relationships This season introduces a change by including participants from The Golden Bachelor and The Golden Bachelorette “We’re bringing Golden contestants to the beach with Bachelor and Bachelorette favorites,” Palmer said during The Bachelor Season 29’s After the Final Rose event The announced cast includes Golden Bachelor runner-up Leslie Fhima Bachelorette Season 21 contestants Jonathan Johnson and Hakeem Moulton “I’m excited to reconnect with friends and maybe find love,” Fhima said on air More contestants will likely be revealed before the premiere Season 15 Bachelorette star Hannah Brown will join to manage the new Champagne Lounge a feature added to the show’s cocktail hours and rose ceremonies The production welcomes new showrunner Scott Teti previously involved with Claim to Fame and Summer House aims to refresh the show after its 2024 break Costa Rica has prior experience with the franchise having hosted The Golden Bachelor’s final rose ceremony in 2023 and infrastructure make it a practical choice for filming The project is expected to support Costa Rica’s economy, particularly in tourism and hospitality. Local businesses, including hotels and service providers, will benefit from the cast and crew’s presence over several weeks. The show’s global audience, which reaches millions, will also promote Costa Rica as a travel destination. The Costa Rican Tourism Board (ICT) sees the production as an opportunity “Filming here showcases our country’s appeal,” an ICT spokesperson said “We’re pleased to host the team and share our hospitality.” For more information on the show, visit www.abc.com Of the many strange and interesting species that many hope to encounter during their time in Costa Rica arthropods are generally lower on the list Of the 365,000 or so arthropods found in Costa Rica the ones that may evoke the most feelings of fear and disgust are ticks Ticks are ectoparasitic arachnids that practice obligate hematophagy To you and me that means they have eight appendages like spiders and mites they are a parasite that is attached to the outside of the host let’s sift through the information we have about ticks in Costa Rica The first thing to know is that there are many species of ticks in Costa Rica. A study that reviewed available information about ticks and public health in Central America found that there are twelve species of ticks that parasitize humans in Costa Rica for those of us running around in the forest there’s not just one species out there sizing us up for their next meal I could not find any information on the total number of tick species in the country The twelve that article listed were only the ones that feed on humans There are many more species that feed on other organisms including a whole host of mammals I’ve seen many examples of this both in person and on my camera traps Many people don’t think about ticks parasitizing reptiles but they can be some of the easiest species to find ticks on in the wild because they stand out on their scaly skin What’s the take home information for someone enjoying the wilds of Costa Rica While Lyme disease probably isn’t your biggest concern there are tick borne diseases in the country so you should take precautions when spending time in the natural environment If you do the same and happen to find a tick I’ve found probably 50 of these unpleasant ectoparasites during my searches and each one resulted in a slightly itchy bump that just goes away you probably shouldn’t be taking medical advice from a guy who writes wildlife articles so if it looks concerning go to the doctor Vincent Losasso, founder of Guanacaste Wildlife Monitoring is a biologist who works with camera traps throughout Costa Rica known for playing Doctor Strange in the Marvel Cinematic Universe and Sherlock Holmes in the BBC series Sherlock The Dirección General de Migración y Extranjería reported that Cumberbatch was here from April 5 to April 17 has earned acclaim for diverse roles across film he received an Oscar nomination for portraying Alan Turing in The Imitation Game (2014) and starred in films like Star Trek Into Darkness (2013) and 1917 (2019) His theater credits include a praised Hamlet at London’s Barbican in 2015 while also serving as an executive producer on several projects During his trip, Cumberbatch visited La Fortuna de San Carlos, a town near the Arenal Volcano. Joined by his wife, Sophie Hunter, a theater director, and their children, he kept a low profile. Sky Adventures Costa Rica, an adventure company in Arenal shared an Instagram post showing Cumberbatch in a safety harness Some reports suggested he also attempted paragliding at Arenal Park He also reportedly stayed at BOENA Wilderness Lodge Cumberbatch’s visit joins those of other celebrities in 2025, like Ivanka Trump and Christian Bale who also came to check out our famous forests A biology seminar highlights the vital role of advocacy for one of the world’s most diverse ecosystems to trek through the Costa Rican rainforest earlier this year was to take a sensory journey She recalls the booming calls of howler monkeys, smells of the forest just before it rained “I took photo after photo so when we got back to the research station I could ask: ‘What’s this plant?’” she said Just being there taught me so much more than I would ever have learned from reading journals.”  The burning curiosity to know, the enthrallment that comes with seeing nature’s extraordinary abundance—these are at the heart of the student experience in Tropical Ecology and Conservation The fall semester seminar is offered every other year and culminates in a 15-day research trip over winter break to Costa Rica one of the most biodiverse countries on the planet credited course at Tufts that involves international experiential learning, Tropical Ecology and Conservation immerses students in hands-on field research and aims to deepen awareness of the challenges involved in protecting the world’s shrinking wild spaces The itinerary includes meeting with local experts and community members devoted to conserving the rainforests they call home Biology Professor Colin Orians originated the course in 2001 The structure of the class reflects his own ties to Costa Rica going back to the “magical” experience he had conducting graduate school research there some 40 years ago.  He sees Costa Rica as a living laboratory for his class which has intertwined goals: to give students a deeper appreciation for the scientific method to provide an immersive scientific and cultural experience and to strengthen their sense that they can make a difference.    “Immersive learning experiences are so important today if we want to inspire students to understand and think about the world around them,” he said. “Our goal is to help students explore both the challenges and the solutions facing rainforests and other vulnerable ecosystems around the world but if students don’t have the opportunity to build a sense of wonder for nature it is hard to imagine them making decisions to fight for the conservation of biodiversity.” For the past two trips, Orians has been joined by Anthropology Professor Zarin Machanda, director of long-term research at the Kibale Chimpanzee Project in Uganda Machanda appreciates how the seminar gives students an opportunity to identify and tackle a scientific question of their own rather than simply supporting someone else’s work.  “It gives me endless satisfaction watching them grow as scientists and thinkers,” she said “But the most fun part of the trip for me is getting to share the magic of the rainforest with students,” she said And there is nothing better than seeing the forest through the eyes of the students experiencing it for the first time.” decided to explore predator patterns in tree fall gaps and the adjacent understory Tree fall gaps are spaces that open in the rainforest and are filled with sunlight Their project included hand-crafting more than 100 green clay “caterpillars” intended to attract predators They anchored their creations in a wet rainforest and a seasonally dry site to test their hypothesis: There would be more nibbles from predators on the clay caterpillars closer to the edges of the gaps where the odds were higher for quick exit should the predators feel threatened “Knowing that we designed an experiment and we were able to follow it through and we got significant results that was a big confidence boost,” said Elderd The itinerary of the winter-break trip for the Tufts course Tropical Biology and Conservation introduces students to Costa Rica’s diverse habitats and to some of the people actively preserving the region’s natural resources and wildlife The trip officially starts in the Lowland Atlantic region at the La Selva Biological Research Station, part of the country’s network of private forest reserves and a training and research site for professional scientists.  Toward the end of the trip, students travel to Copey de Dota in the highlands to write up their results and to meet Olman Serrano who is diversifying his farming livelihood While he traditionally grew avocados and apples he is now exploring different ways of growing coffee to improve profitability and resilience in the face of climate change a biology and cognitive brain science double major was among the 16 students on the trip this past January developed a research project based on their shared interest in freshwater conservation They chose to investigate the impact of banana on the quality of streams. Like their classmates they had done considerable preparation in Medford first reading widely about tropical ecology finding a gap in the literature that resonated with their own interests and then drafting a hypothesis and writing a research proposal Their plan: to look at specific metrics (including acidity and nitrate and phosphate concentrations) to determine freshwater health at upstream and downstream sites in two locations.  they were surprised to find few differences between samples upstream and downstream of land used for agriculture “It’s likely we can chalk up our findings to fact that we were just getting snapshots of each river rather than a holistic look at each sample site,” said Molnar.  “this was a project I am proud of,” he said “The process of thinking through and doing this project with classmates and incredible instructors was one of the more collaborative experiences that I have had at Tufts.” Orians’ passion for Costa Rica has inspired hundreds of students many of whom say the course affirmed their decision to go to graduate school.  One confirmation of that lasting impact is the response from alumni to ongoing requests for funding. Through a recent crowdfunding campaign graduates of the course contributed more than $10,000 in one month toward financial support for current and future students who need help with travel expenses.  is grateful for the opportunity the class provided to test her interests when she was a junior After graduating with a degree in Applied Environmental Studies she is now with the California Department of Fish & Wildlife; her current fieldwork takes her throughout the Sacramento River watershed to monitor threatened Chinook salmon and Central Valley steelhead.  Brownsell didn’t have much experience doing scientific research before she went to Costa Rica but the class helped her “to gain confidence in my ability to make real contributions to scientific understanding,” she said “The experience gave me an opportunity to challenge myself and discover my passion and skill for fieldwork The nature of scientific research and field work is this: You won't know if it's for you until you try—you have to immerse yourself in it to find out.”  COMMENTARY Costa Rica is a longstanding democratic model in the hemisphere — but is its controversial president poised to adopt the dictatorial methods of the new autocratic model El Salvador’s fall into authoritarian rule hasn’t surprised me Democracy’s roots in that small Central American nation run about as deep as musical taste in a South Beach techno club That’s why autocratic President Nayib Bukele has had little trouble ripping them out But Costa Rica is a different — a critically different — story It has long been an oasis in Central America’s democracy desert That's why last week’s visit to El Salvador by Costa Rica’s security chief was unsettling if not scary READ MORE: Oopsie! Is El Salvador the future of Trump's America? You bet your Bukele Like most Central American countries today the once peaceful country registered its worst-ever homicide rate in 2023 like most Central American countries today Costa Rica can’t help notice El Salvador’s murder rate has dropped from one of the western hemisphere’s highest to one of its lowest Bukele has made El Salvador’s streets less delinquent by making its state more dictatorial He’s neutered the legislative and judicial institutions — sending soldiers into the Legislative Assembly in 2020 got that done pretty pronto — and he’s trashed civil rights and due process That’s led to summary imprisonment not just of gang members but of anyone who looks sideways at Bukele the self-proclaimed “world’s coolest dictator.” Result: as much as 2% of El Salvador’s population is behind bars these days The country has traded a terrifying homicide toll for an appalling incarceration roll And this was the model Costa Rican Justice and Peace Minister Gerald Campos Valverde praised during his tour of Bukele’s new maximum-security prison “We are going to take all of El Salvador’s good practices back to Costa Rica,” Campos declared This isn’t the first time the Costa Ricans have gushed about Bukele’s “good practices.” Last fall President Rodrigo Chaves awarded the Salvadoran Costa Rica’s highest diplomatic honor for “aiding peace in our region.” I can’t blame any Central American leader for wanting to clip what Chaves called the “nefarious claws” of mafioso violence in his own country as potently as they have been in El Salvador And I can appreciate why that’s made Bukele so popular in the hemisphere But I also appreciate what’s made Costa Rica so admired in the hemisphere — and it’s not the suspension of habeas corpus right to trial and all the other rule-of-law essentials that Bukele has buried as irksome inconveniences Nor is it the sort of street-corner mugging of the constitution that Bukele commandeered so he could run Yet I fear Chaves and Costa Rica could be poised to move in that direction — and for reasons that are about more than just reining in narco-thugs Chaves is a textbook candidate for Bukele-ism Let’s remember: Bukele started his draconian crusade a few years ago under corruption pressure — namely, well documented reports that he’d negotiated with El Salvador’s gangs to let them pursue non-lethal activities like drug-trafficking and extortion if they’d reduce their murder numbers to boost his image Chaves seems in desperate need of that kind of political deflection Bukele's methods — which have historically been anathema to the Ticos and their ethos of pura vida or harmonious living — may look muy atractivo Something else could make them look more appealing: the fact that Donald Trump the President of the United States — the country with supposedly the deepest democratic roots in the Americas — admires them At the beginning of the year, I had the opportunity to go to Costa Rica for the first time But the trip also came with its fair share of obstacles Here are six mishaps from the trip that I think could happen to anyone — and how I learned to prepare for them My lodging experienced full power outages multiple times during my trip I learned that this is pretty common in certain parts of the country The chef who came to work in our kitchen even kept a headlamp with him We had plenty of candles on hand, but it would've been very helpful to have a portable battery bank (or three) In beautiful tropical environments such as Costa Rica it's not uncommon for part of your accommodations to be partially or totally outdoors the bathroom for our accommodation was outdoors and we just had a staring contest — no one was hurt in the process I never wanted to risk that again, so slip-on house shoes became my best friend anytime I needed to run outside I quickly learned that essential oils, natural bug repellents and even chemical sprays weren't enough to keep them away at times The best (and least sticky) solution I eventually found was keeping a tinned citronella candle nearby whenever I was sitting outside the sun is also brighter in Costa Rica than where I'm from in the Midwest of the US the sun-care products I found there were more expensive than what I'm used to I should've stocked up before my trip instead of waiting to buy things once I landed Even with sunscreens, hats, and UV clothing there's a chance you'll burn — I certainly did I'd also prepare for that by packing some soothing aftercare products Being stranded in the ocean was an experience — to say the least but it quickly became obvious that we were going to be stuck for a while Though I didn't intentionally prepare for this, I was glad I had reef-safe sunscreen on me — within 15 minutes of baking under the sun Between the big bag of trail mix I had and the skipper's cooler of fresh pineapple We were far enough out that the water was fairly calm but we also had plenty of Dramamine to help keep people's motion sickness in check it wasn't as scary or shocking as it could've been but I'm always going to keep snacks and supplies on hand for future boating activities If you're not used to being in a humid climate, it can be hard to tell when you're starting to get dehydrated thanks to the tropical rainforest environment I was very grateful that a friend brought chewable electrolyte tablets and was willing to share They helped me stay hydrated while we were stranded in the ocean and they were super helpful during an hourslong hike to a waterfall I also took one before the flight back to America and I really noticed a difference in my hydration levels on the dry airplane I don't think I'll ever travel without them again An official website of the United States government A .gov website belongs to an official government organization in the United States ) or https:// means you’ve safely connected to the .gov website Share sensitive information only on official Emergency Information for American Citizens The Costa Rican National Emergency Commission (CNE) has issued a RED alert for the Poás Volcano National Park citizens traveling or living near the Poás volcano are strongly encouraged to monitor local media for current volcanic activity the alert levels in other areas around the volcano are as follows: ORANGE alert for the areas of Grecia and Sarchi and YELLOW alert for Alajuela citizens are encouraged to monitor the below websites for the latest updates on alert levels Both international airports in San Jose and Liberia are operating normally ACSSanJose@state.gov      https://cr.usembassy.gov/      State Department – Consular Affairs      +1 (888) 407-4747 or +1 (202) 501-4444      Costa Rica International Travel Information (travel.state.gov)      Enroll in Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive security updates Follow us on Facebook and X    We use cookies to make our website work better and improve your experience The technical storage or access is strictly necessary for the 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underwater excavations in 2023 archaeologists from East Carolina University discovered yellow bricks specific to Danish manufacturing in Flensburg located on coral reefs near Puerto Limón in Cahuita National Park were first documented in the 1970s but misidentified as pirate vessels based on local assumptions Historical records indicate the Fridericus Quartus and Christianus Quintus departed Copenhagen in December 1708 bound for the Danish West Indies via West Africa and weapons to trade for enslaved Africans the ships struck reefs off what was then called Punta Carreto and the other was abandoned after its anchor cable was cut Excavations confirmed charred wood and Danish cargo David Gregory, a marine archaeologist at the National Museum of Denmark which is charred and covered in soot from the fire This matches historical accounts.” Andreas Kallmeyer Bloch emphasized the excavation’s importance for understanding Denmark’s maritime history and its relevance to Costa Rica supported by Denmark’s Njord research center involved collaboration with East Carolina University and Costa Rica’s National System of Conservation Areas (SINAC) It marks Costa Rica’s first underwater archaeological excavation The wreck sites are restricted to non-invasive tours to protect the artifacts and marine environment Approximately 690 enslaved Africans were aboard the ships with historical records noting that around 100 were recaptured and sent to cacao plantations in Matina The discovery provides new insight into the region’s colonial history and the transatlantic slave trade SINAC plans to incorporate the findings into educational programs at Cahuita National Park Ivanka Trump is practicing one of her favorite activities for spring break The daughter of Donald and Ivana Trump is spending her vacations in Costa Rica with her family and has been photographed doing something that she loves: surfing Ivanka and her husband, Jared Kushner were photographed laughing and enjoying their day together with him matching her bright suit with neon green board shorts with the couple being another pair of famous Miami residents In a video shared by the Valente Brothers' Instagram account Ivanka showed off her prowess in the sport showing her taking down her instructor after completing a series of complex and calculated moves Earlier this year, Ivanka revealed that her New Year's resolution was centered on fitness. “Sticking to New Year’s resolutions isn’t easy—only 23% of people make it past the first week,” she wrote in the caption of an image that showed her in the gym “But every day is a new opportunity to show up and stay committed Feeling stronger and more motivated as February begins—let’s keep going!” Ivanka Trump shared a glimpse into her recent trip to Costa Rica during Passover and Easter week reflecting on the experience in her own words: "Grateful doesn’t begin to cover it… Spending Passover and Easter week surrounded by the raw beauty of Costa Rica was a gift beyond words and surrendered to stillness and deep sleep this week was about reconnecting—with the Earth My heart is full of gratitude for these moments of togetherness and renewal Wishing you all the same kind of peace and presence 🤍" It’s a clear snapshot of how she found rest Reproduction of this article and its photographs in whole or in part is prohibited As Costa Rica continues to battle rising crime rates a recent robbery involving two American tourists has captured widespread attention Anna Manocha and her friend Carolina López traveled to Costa Rica in early March in search of adventure and the famed “Pura Vida” lifestyle But their vacation took a troubling turn when their rental car was broken into during a stop between San José and Quepos In a TikTok video shared by Anna Manocha (@anna.manocha) one of the victims explains how the theft occurred during a bathroom break at a gas station also highlights the logistical nightmare that followed The pair documented the steps they took to report the crime to Costa Rican police and to work with U.S authorities to arrange new travel documents Their firsthand account not only resonated with viewers but also shed light on how crimes targeting tourists are increasingly becoming part of the national conversation walking viewers through their interactions with law enforcement and the embassy The video comment sections are flooded with similar experiences from other tourists suggesting that crimes like this are far from rare TikTok users from around the world chimed in with their own cautionary stories of thefts from rental cars and run-ins with petty crime while vacationing in Costa Rica both women emphasized that they still appreciated Costa Rica’s natural beauty and friendly locals “We’re still trying to focus on the positive,” Manocha noted in her video determined not to let the incident define their overall experience The incident has reignited concerns among tourism stakeholders The National Chamber of Tourism (CANATUR) and related associations have warned that unchecked crime could seriously damage Costa Rica’s global image and its critical tourism economy “The safety of both locals and international visitors must be a national priority,” CANATUR stated in a recent press release As Costa Rica faces a dip in visitation numbers stories like this one are becoming cautionary tales for would-be travelers already challenged by global travel uncertainties While the country suffers a dip in international visitation the National Chamber of Tourism and other associations have repeatedly emphasized the importance of addressing the national crime crisis At the same time, this tarnishes our country’s image and discourages other travelers from visiting, reinforcing Costa Rica’s growing reputation as an unsafe destination Students Juliet Ojeda (left) and Daisy Gomez pose for a photo on the iconic hanging bridge at La Selva Research Station in Costa Rica where they spent a week reporting on science It’s 8 p.m. on a dark and starry March evening at La Selva Research Station in Costa Rica The air is warm and moist and smells like damp soil and vegetation A group of fifteen students from the University of Nevada Reno’s Reynolds School of Journalism walks in a line along a trail with flashlights to help them navigate the darkness Listening for animal calls through the eerie rustlings of the forest the group searches for tiny flashes of red – the eyes of creatures hidden in the night they document all that they encounter – spiders Students crossing the iconic hanging bridge at La Selva Research Station The students, who spent seven days at La Selva over spring break, were there to report on science and explore the tropical rainforest as part of a Hitchcock Project for Visualizing Science travel reporting course, developed in collaboration with Reynolds School Spanish language media project, Noticiero Móvil and Vanesa de la Cruz Pavas from the Reynolds School students had the chance to build lasting connections network with scientists from around the world practice their science communication and Spanish skills and work on group and individual journalism projects “Our goal was to create an immersive learning experience for the students – to give them a taste of what it is like to report from the field director of the Hitchcock Project and associate professor of practice in science communication all while finding ways to synthesize complex science into compelling journalism It was both a thrilling and challenging environment to work in I was blown away by the students’ passion and commitment to their reporting.”  Equipped with knee-high rubber boots to avoid snake bites and waterproof clothing to keep dry from the rain students immersed themselves in the exploration of the research station and the hands-on experience of reporting from the field with scientists Students pursued stories on everything from the complex behaviors of leaf-cutter ants to the impacts of Costa Rican agriculture on the forest ecosystem students had the opportunity to interact with two University faculty members who do research at the site – Professor Lee Dyer from the Department of Biology director of the Hitchcock Center for Chemical Ecology and professor in the Department of Chemistry Students met with Dyer and Jeffrey at the University prior to the trip then interviewed the professors while at La Selva about their research and their connection with the place and community in Costa Rica “La Selva is an example of a case where you can see all the different dimensions that come together in one of these big international multi-institutional projects,” Jeffrey said “It was meaningful to have the journalists see the relationships that we built down there the importance of an established field site such as La Selva and how communication was kind of threaded through all these things “Traveling for leisure is always a great time but to feel like I was on assignment to tell the stories of those living and working in Costa Rica just felt like I’d reached my dream job.” Opportunities like this for scientists and journalists to connect and collaborate are essential to enhancing understanding and communication of science explained Dyer – and the benefits go both ways is such an important opportunity to refine how we communicate our work but we do need to distill the relevance and context to things that will interest a general audience,” Dyer said “I think for journalists who take the time to spend time with us it’s a chance to tell accurate stories that include enough nuance and intrigue All of this is so important right now for ecologists because of rapidly increasing threats to tropical ecosystems the experience highlighted the value of the relationships between scientists and the communities they work in Moreno’s team gathered footage for a mini-documentary about the impact of La Selva beyond its role as a research station.  “One thing that happily surprised me is that this research station’s impact goes even further by acting as an incubator for new local businesses that run sustainable operations based on learnings from La Selva,” Moreno said “The impact of research stations needs to be more widely recognized beyond the scientific community and I think this is a great opportunity to tell that story.”  Reynolds School student Beatrice Bashibyukyan focused her efforts on the use of pesticides in Costa Rican agriculture and their impact on human Her team is also producing a short documentary “This trip was one of the best I’ve ever taken and it was so satisfying to visit a new country with a legitimate purpose,” Bashibyukyan said Beyond their science reporting work at La Selva students also had the chance to explore Costa Rica’s rich cultural and ecotourism offerings and a stroll through the town of La Fortuna They took a day trip to the University of Costa Rica where they met and spoke with researcher Adrián Pinto-Tomás and his research group touring research laboratories within the Organization for Tropical Studies students highlighted not only the academic and cultural takeaways but also the meaningful friendships and professional connections they formed – bonds that will likely accompany them throughout their careers “I learned to be more comfortable with myself to not be so afraid of trying new things,” student Oscar Martinez said “The friends I made on this trip really brought me out of my shell and I did things I never imagined I could do I feel like a fire has been lit inside me to go out and be a proper journalist.”The students are now putting the finishing touches on their stories and documentaries which will be published on the Hitchcock Project and Noticiero Móvil websites following a showcase in May Kent and Cruz are exploring the possibility of organizing another such trip in the future “The opportunity for international travel to Central America can be a wonderful way to develop professional skills for students interested in media production especially when our topic of focus is science and the environment,” Claudia Cruz director of the Reynolds School’s internship program and managing editor of Noticiero Móvil “Add to that the chance to also utilize the Spanish-language to communicate with researchers and the local community and the experience can become a transformative one.”   ‘a force of nature,’ to be remembered at campus memorial service screenwriter and advocate for Indigenous peoples Biochemistry doctoral graduate Elizabeth Walsh was selected as a 2024 AAAS Mass Media Fellow Here she shares her experiences in the Hitchcock Project for Visualizing Science and advice for scientists interested in science communication A peek into Nevada Woman Filmmaker of the Year’s newest documentary Local artist Connor Fogal is the focus of Reynolds School of Journalism Associate Dean and Professor Kari Barber’s latest film 2025 Three-Minute Thesis competition finalists announced Neighborhood ‘ambassadors’ needed to help prepare communities for wildfire Reno and the Nevada Division of Forestry holding informational meeting May 7 Giving Day: The Wolf Pack Way raises over $750,000 Honoring faculty through awards and fellowships Extension offers Home Horticulture Certificate Program Program provides information for home gardeners and those interested in becoming Master Gardeners College of Education & Human Development hosts first-ever Student Teaching Welcome Celebration Students discover where they will be student teaching in Fall 2025 Sanford Center for Aging impacts older adults in northern Nevada Sanford Center shares data and programs in the community College of Business celebrates student success and research excellence Annual banquet honors outstanding students Reno programs offer locally grown plants to support local horticulture programs do not have widespread laws mandating carbon monoxide detectors some businesses (like hotels) or embassies may voluntarily install them due to safety concerns citizens have suffered adverse effects or died from exposure to carbon monoxide To avoid harm from this odorless and dangerous gas while traveling overseas citizens are encouraged to take the following actions:  +506 2519-2000 ACSSanJose@state.gov https://cr.usembassy.gov/ Costa Rica International Travel Information (travel.state.gov) Follow us on Facebook and X (Formerly Twitter) var tve_dash_front = {"ajaxurl":"https:\/\/cr.usembassy.gov\/wp-admin\/admin-ajax.php","force_ajax_send":"","is_crawler":"","recaptcha":[],"turnstile":[],"post_id":"14685"}; the official presentation of the 2025–2030 National Fisheries and Aquaculture Development Plan took much of Costa Rica’s coastal fishing sector by surprise Developed by the Costa Rican Institute of Fisheries and Aquaculture (INCOPESCA) in conjunction with the Executive Secretariat for Agricultural Sector Planning (SEPSA) the document outlines an ambitious roadmap toward 2030 beyond the optimism displayed at its launch the success of the Plan will hinge on institutional capacity to coordinate efforts and address long-standing structural challenges the Plan incorporates the aquaculture vision of the FAO-promoted “Blue Transformation,” integrating mariculture as with the Chinchilla-Miranda administration’s plan (Decree No significant structural gaps remain: the absence of a robust fisheries information system a lack of scientific data and reliable statistics and outdated traceability methods—such as the lack of onboard observers or strengthened satellite tracking sustainability risks being reduced to rhetoric One of the most evident omissions is the absence of specific strategies for the tourism and sport fishing sector. Far from marginal, this activity accounts for 33.6% of active licenses, surpassing all individual commercial categories except small-scale fishing. It is estimated to generate nearly $500 million annually sustaining thousands of coastal families and contributing approximately 75% of the total license revenue collected by INCOPESCA in recent years (INCOPESCA-PE-0825-2022) all while operating with a fraction of the extractive fishing effort Despite its economic and ecological significance the Plan merely acknowledges the sector’s existence without articulating concrete actions to strengthen it This exclusion contradicts Costa Rica’s commitments under the Sustainable Development Goals (8 which promote sustainable use of marine resources based largely on catch-and-release practices not only conserves fish populations but also stimulates local value chains contributing to the well-being of coastal communities it is particularly contradictory and concerning that while the Plan allocates ₡378 million to the Costa Rica Pelagic Fishery Improvement Project (FIP)—focused on fishing sharks and mahi-mahi—no specific funding has been designated to strengthen tourism and sport fishing The systematic omission of this sector is not a mere technical oversight; it reveals a profound disconnect between public policy and key sources of sustainable development in communities such as Guanacaste It marginalizes those who also “break their backs” to energize our coastal zones particularly in regions where sport fishing is a pillar of subsistence and development The 2024 State of the Nation report highlighted the deep mistrust that prevails toward INCOPESCA and other public authorities among artisanal and sport fishing sectors This sentiment is echoed in the documentary released this week Although the 2025–2030 Plan proclaims the importance of “citizen participation,” it introduces no new mechanisms for participatory governance nor does it strengthen the legitimacy of decision-making processes in the fisheries sector The lack of structural support for tourism and sport fishing not only represents a missed opportunity to promote marine sustainability and coastal economic development but also raises questions about the fairness and coherence of public policies in the sector If Costa Rica aspires to solidify its position as a regional leader in the blue economy it is imperative to correct this omission and promote improvement projects specifically designed for this fisheries subsector Building opportunities for future generations will not be possible if key sectors continue to be rendered invisible Supporting tourism and sport fishing is not a concession—it is a smart strategy to conserve marine ecosystems and strengthen the legitimacy of public management of ocean resources Damián Martínez FernándezDirector of Conservation and Public PolicyCosta Rican Fishing Federation (FECOP) By: Rachel Klemovitch Estée Lauder announces an exclusive partnership with Hacienda AltaGracia debuting its first Skin Longevity Institute in the Americas within the resort’s world-renowned Casa de Agua Spa.  and reconnect guests with the simple joys of life inspired by the resort’s natural surroundings Located adjacent to one of the world’s five “Blue Zones,” regions recognized for their high concentration of centenarians Hacienda AltaGracia offers a transformative journey grounded in trusted longevity practices.   “When we launched our Skin Longevity platform here more than a year ago we knew that it was just the beginning… Through exclusive age reversal skincare treatments and holistic wellness activations Backed by over 15 years of skin longevity research the Estée Lauder Skin Longevity Institute at Hacienda AltaGracia offers guests an immersive experience that fuses luxury Re-Nutriv skincare powered cutting-edge Skin Longevity science Each treatment is designed to deliver exceptional customized results while bringing the brand’s Skin Longevity philosophy to life.  and the restorative power of our natural surroundings.” For the May opening of the Skin Longevity Institute two members of Estée Lauder’s Longevity Collective will be in residence at Hacienda AltaGracia Residencies will occur throughout the coming months Estee Lauder Companies Reports Q3 2025 Results ELC’s EVP of Global Innovation and R&D to Depart ELC’s Stéphane de La Faverie Announces Restructuring Plan & New Leadership (Washington, DC) – Costa Rican Foreign Minister Arnoldo André Tinoco should use his appearance before the Legislative Assembly on March 19 to disclose his migration agreement with the United States and confirm that third-country nationals deported from the United States can seek asylum in Costa Rica “Costa Rica should not be complicit in flagrant US abuses,” said Michael Garcia Bochenek senior children’s rights counsel at Human Rights Watch “Costa Rican authorities should expeditiously identify potential refugee claims and ensure that no one is returned to a place where they are at risk of serious harm.” US and Costa Rican authorities have claimed that all third-country nationals deported to Costa Rica want to return to their home countries But five of them told Human Rights Watch that they and others consistently told US and Costa Rican officials that they had fled persecution and were seeking asylum Those interviewed described practices by US officials that would violate US law. A process known as “expedited removal” allows many people who arrive at regular border crossing points or who enter without inspection to be deported without seeing an immigration judge people who request asylum or say that they fear returning to their home countries must be interviewed by asylum officers If the asylum officer finds that the person has not shown a credible fear of harm if returned the person can request a hearing before an immigration judge A 23-year-old woman said she fled Iran facing persecution for converting to Christianity She had an initial “credible fear” interview in mid-February with a US asylum officer US immigration agents told her she would be deported to Iran said that she sought asylum at the border crossing in Yuma US immigration agents allowed her and her 2-year-old son to enter she said she was sent to Costa Rica without the opportunity to see an immigration judge US authorities separated an extended family from Afghanistan Both men had worked for the former Afghan government putting the entire family at risk of Taliban reprisals The family said that they repeatedly told US officials that they were seeking asylum but did not receive credible fear interviews before they were sent to Costa Rica a Russian couple said that they and their 6-year-old son were sent to Costa Rica without seeing an asylum officer The couple said they fled Russia after the man tried to expose irregularities in the country’s 2024 election many times to be sure that our intention could not be misunderstood but the US officials totally ignored us,” he said Costa Rica has a long history of providing safe haven to refugees. The Chaves government moved to restrict access to asylum in 2022. The courts invalidated some of these measures, and the government withdrew others in 2024 Costa Rica is obligated under international law to guarantee the right to seek asylum and to refrain from sending people directly or indirectly to countries where they would face torture or other serious harm Announcing the decision to accept the flights, President Chaves said: “We are helping the economically powerful brother to the north [the United States] who if they impose a tax in our free zones it’ll screw us.” Chaves and other Costa Rican officials have said that the United States is covering the costs of the deported people’s stay in Costa Rica US President Donald Trump and other US officials have repeatedly said that immigration enforcement is targeting people accused or convicted of serious crimes But those deported to Costa Rica appear to have spent only a few weeks at most in the United States and neither government has provided any indication that these people have been accused of a crime other than the very minor offense of improper entry The US government’s deportation efforts derive a particular benefit from the removal of families with children Federal anti-trafficking legislation and court orders limit the time children can be held in immigration detention but the restrictions only apply to detention within the United States the families are held in a migrant reception center in Corredores canton They have access to their mobile phones and can purchase minutes and data but Costa Rican authorities hold their passports and other identity documents Although those interviewed expressed appreciation for the shelter and generally welcoming attitude of the staff in the center they described conditions that are not suitable for children Parents said the very warm and humid climate left their children listless and with little appetite The center provides no education or other structured activities for children and few recreational opportunities Costa Rica’s ombuds office has criticized the conditions in the center The Legislative Assembly has summoned the foreign minister to the March 19 hearing to provide details on the agreement with the United States under which Costa Rica accepted the third-country nationals The foreign minister should make the agreement public the Costa Rican government should clarify how it will respect people’s right to seek asylum in Costa Rica and what efforts it will make to transfer back to the United States people who were denied the opportunity to present asylum claims to US authorities “There is no excuse for Costa Rica’s failure to safeguard the rights and well-being of the children it is detaining following their deportation from the United States,” Bochenek said Iban Indigenous Resistance to the Timber Industry in Sarawak Get updates on human rights issues from around the globe Human Rights Watch is a 501(C)(3) nonprofit registered in the US under EIN: 13-2875808 Gisele Bündchen and Ivanka Trump seem to be becoming great friends The two were spotted hanging out in Costa Rica on Wednesday looking like total bikini besties during a relaxed sunset gathering at the Blue Mist The Brazilian supermodel looked radiant and super toned as she walked barefoot along the beach just weeks after welcoming her third child on February 8 Also spotted with them? Karlie Kloss, who happens to be married to Jared Kushner’s brother, Joshua. Kloss and Ivanka have been on a family vacation, skipping Easter at the White House soaking in the tropical vibes and enjoying each other's company Costa Rica has become Bündchen's second home since her relationship with jiu-jitsu instructor Joaquim Valente began and Valente trains clients (and celebs) at his studio there Ivanka’s even gotten in on the action—she shared a video last month of herself training with the Valente brothers "I think she’s possessive of him and probably didn’t want him there." The man seemed to be talking out of a place of nonsense Donald Trump once publicly said Tom and Ivanka would be a “good combination.” In 2004 he even floated the idea that they’d make a cute couple And as for Kloss, she's been very open about the liberal views she and her husband share, despite being part of the extended Trump family through marriage. There's been a rumored rift between her and Ivanka in the past so if there’s one thing the group probably isn’t discussing on this beachy retreat Former Costa Rica president Óscar Arias Sánchez – a Nobel Peace Prize winner – had his U.S said in an interview with Morning Edition that U.S Embassy workers in Costa Rica told him his visa was revoked due to his close ties with the Chinese government Arias Sánchez served as president of Costa Rica from 1986 to 1990 and then again from 2006 to 2010 Costa Rica formalized relations with China in 2007 Earlier this year, the Nobel Laureate criticized President Trump on social media comparing him to a "Roman emperor" telling the rest of the world what to do Arias Sánchez told NPR he worries those comments influenced the decision to revoke his visa "The president has a personality that is not open to criticism or disagreements," Arias Sánchez said A State Department spokesperson provided the following statement when NPR asked for comment about Arias Sánchez's revoked visa: "Visa records are confidential under U.S we cannot discuss the details of individual visa cases." Arias Sánchez spoke to NPR's Leila Fadel about his visa cancellation Editor's note: Arias Sánchez spoke through an interpreter and in English This interview has been edited for length and clarity Arias Sánchez: So I received an email on Tuesday that was a very short one that said that my B1/B2 visa had been revoked I called the embassy to ask what had happened Arias Sánchez: They asked me to come into the embassy so I was able to be there in person where they somewhat explained what happened They told me my visa was revoked because of my close ties to China During my second administration from 2006 to 2010 I established diplomatic relations with China and that's because it has the second largest economy in the world and its growth relies on international trade And so in 2007 is when we formally established diplomatic relations Fadel: How much do you think your public statements criticizing President Trump comparing him to a Roman emperor played in them The embassy workers didn't say that was specifically why my visa was revoked and they cited my relationship with China But I have to imagine that my criticism of President Trump might have played a role The president has a personality that is not open to criticism or disagreements Fadel: The Trump administration says it's targeting anyone they deem as having what they define as a "hostile attitude" to the U.S Arias Sánchez: I don't have a hostile attitude towards the United States supporting the Contras militarily affected my own country I had a strong disagreement with his policy towards the region But concerning my feelings towards the U.S My son went to Harvard and my daughter went to Boston College I received more or less 85 honorary degrees from the best universities in the U.S Note: Throughout the 1980s, the U.S. backed Contra rebels against the left-wing Nicaraguan government he did not allow the U.S.-backed Contras to operate in Costa Rica Fadel: I think there's so much fascination with your case because you're such a known figure and yet your visa was revoked So what does that say about the policy of the U.S For a Democrat – and I am a true Democrat – criticism is welcome It's the only way you can build agreements This happened to me when I met with the five Central American presidents in August of '87 And with criticism from adversaries or from the press and freedom of the press and freedom of opinion freedom of expression is a prerequisite for any democratic government So I have benefited myself with criticism from all those sources The radio version of this story was edited by Reena Advani and produced by Julie Depenbrock Become an NPR sponsor A plane carrying migrants from Central Asia and India arrives at Juan Santamaría International Airport in San Jose A bus carrying migrants from Central Asia and India arrives at the Juan Santamaría International Airport in San Jose MEXICO CITY (AP) — A group of human rights lawyers is suing Costa Rica alleging the Central American nation violated the rights of dozens of migrant children by detaining them in a rural camp for nearly two months after they were deported from the U.S and expressed fear over returning to their own countries they were dropped in Costa Rica and Panama The countries were originally intended as a kind of deportation layover but the migrants have now spent 50 days in limbo were driven out to a rural migrant processing center along the Costa Rica-Panama border and detained in a former factory building said the migrants were held in detention without legal status with no access to educational services or mental health services in their native language It has fueled concern the long-term impacts that extended detention could have on the children as many parents have reported their children appearing isolated or sad “The kids are in a very crucial part of their development and they are all fleeing complicated contexts in their countries And now they’re subjected to detention for different but long periods of time and inhumane treatment,” Serna Roman said Friday Serna Roman said migrants have had little access to legal counsel The Costa Rican government has said migrants could leave the detention facility if they agree to return to their countries of origin or seek asylum in Costa Rica But the lawyer said many families fear they would have nowhere to go and potentially end up on the street so they’ve remained in “indefinite detention” in the facility known as CATEM “Many people are afraid to leave CATEM because at least it means shelter means a roof over their heads,” Serna Roman said “The Costa Rican government hasn’t been upfront about how they plan to further protect these people.” Costa Rican officials have disputed reports by the country’s Ombudsman’s Office that the deportees arrived in Costa Rica in visible distress and that authorities failed to guarantee proper conditions for arriving deportees Costa Rican President Rodrigo Chaves said in February that in accepting the Asian migrants his country was “helping the economically powerful brother to the north.” Caden Clark and Patrick Agyemang added second-half goals and the Americans celebrated the conclusion of a successful January camp before 13,580 fans at Inter&Co Stadium. It was their second victory in four days. The USA defeated Venezuela, 3-1, on Jan. 18 at Chase Stadium in Fort Lauderdale. The USMNT is now 20W-17L-6D all-time against Costa Rica (20W-6L-4D on home soil), and 5W-1L-0D under head coach Mauricio Pochettino. As expected in a camp with a focus on player evaluation, Pochettino rotated his lineup considerably. Miles Robinson (playing right back instead of centrally), midfielder Benjamin Cremaschi and winger Brian Gutiérrez were the only holdovers from the group that started against Venezuela. Steffen earned his first cap since the World Cup qualifying finale in Costa Rica in March 2022, while captain Tim Ream and Walker Zimmerman partnered in central defense for the first time since the subsequent round-of-16 loss to the Netherlands in Qatar. Emeka Eneli and winger Indiana Vassilev each earned their first USMNT starts. Left back DeJuan Jones and White filled out Pochettino’s XI. Playing for the first time under former Mexico manager Miguel Herrera, Costa Rica fielded four international debutants. Its most seasoned starter was goalkeeper Esteban Alvarado (25 caps), who faced the USA in 2019 and 2020 friendlies and then relieved Keylor Navas toward the end of that March 2022 qualifier. Costa Rica was more assertive just after kickoff and earned three corner kicks in the opening five minutes, but Steffen and the USA held firm and gradually grew into the game. Gutiérrez had the first good U.S. chance, hitting the side netting from close range following a spell of possession in the 13th. The ascendant Americans appeared to suffer a setback when Luna, the playmaker, was forced to the sideline after taking an inadvertent elbow from Costa Rica’s Creichel Pérez. But Luna re-entered the match after several minutes of treatment, wearing a new white jersey and cotton up both nostrils. Seconds later, the Real Salt Lake sparkplug set up White’s opener. Luna received a pass at midfield from Jones, advanced about 20 yards and then hit a through ball that split three Tico defenders. White took one touch into the penalty area and sent a low, left-footed shot back toward the inside-right netting. The 21st-minute tally was White’s first USMNT goal, and at age 28 he became the oldest player to open his international account since Matt Besler (29 years, 204 days) in September 2016. White nearly had a second in the 27th, but Alvarado cleared a low bid from the Vancouver Whitecaps’ marksman off the goal line. Steffen then made his mark in the 37th, leaping high and to his left to tip a well-hit, dipping shot from Costa Rica’s Alejandro Bran over the crossbar. The lively, wide-open half ended with an excellent recovery from Robinson, who closed down a threatening Josimar Méndez in stoppage time. Pochettino sent on midfielder Jack McGlynn, playmaker Matko Miljevic and Clark after halftime. McGlynn and Miljevic had a goal and an assist each against Venezuela, and they were back orchestrating the U.S. attack early in the second period. Miljevic set up White for a promising chance in the 53rd, but he pulled his shot left of the target. Steffen then authored another spectacular save in the 56th, diving to his left and parrying a goal-bound shot from substitute Allan Cruz, a former FC Cincinnati midfielder. Frequent substitutions and frequent whistles impacted the flow of the second half (the friendly featured five yellow cards) and in the 77th, Eneli’s alert and aggressive play paid dividends. Operating in the left channel, the Real Salt Lake midfielder quickly recovered the ball from Costa Rica’s Bran and found Clark at the top of the penalty area. The CF Montréal attacker rifled home a first-time shot for his first USMNT goal. Jones and Agyemang then teamed up for an exclamation point in the 90th. Jones curled a long, beautiful ball with the outside of his foot into Agyemang’s path, and the Charlotte FC striker pounded a shot past substitute Costa Rican goalkeeper Anthony Walker from an acute angle. Agyemang, who replaced White 15 minutes earlier, had also scored against Venezuela. Steffen made three saves to claim his 12th career shutout and Michelob Ultra Man of the Match honors. Pochettino made the most of his first January camp, giving eight players their USMNT debuts and re-integrating several others while winning both games. He got a look at 19 different starters across the two matches, and five players scored their first international goals. There will be a trophy at stake the next time the USMNT convenes. In two months, the Americans will be seeking a fourth straight Concacaf Nations League crown at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, Calif., where they’ll face Panama in a March 20 semifinal. The final and third-place playoff are three days later. USA—Brian White (Diego Luna) 21st minute: Shortly after receiving treatment for a bloody nose, the wounded Luna dribbled through midfield before sending a perfect through ball to White on the edge of the Costa Rican penalty area. White took one touch to his left, then struck a shot back toward the right that beat the goalkeeper and rolled inside the right post. USA 1, CRC 0 USA—Caden Clark (Emeka Eneli), 77th minute: Timely counter pressing from Eneli created a turnover on the U.S. left, and Eneli had the composure to slide a pass toward the top of the penalty area. Clark was wide open and whipped a first-time, left-footed shot into the upper left corner. USA 2, CRC 0 USA—Patrick Agyemang (DeJuan Jones), 90th minute: A deft, curling through ball from Jones found Agyemang on the left side of the Costa Rican penalty area. He held off Costa Rica’s Kevin Espinoza and smashed a left-footed effort past the goalie from a tight angle. USA 3, CRC 0 FINAL. Match: United States Men’s National Team vs. Costa RicaDate: January 22, 2025Competition: International FriendlyVenue: Inter&Co Stadium; Orlando, Fla.Attendance: 13,580Kickoff: 7:07 p.m. ETWeather: 44 degrees, cloudy Lineups:USA: 22-Zack Steffen; 12-Miles Robinson (18-Shaq Moore, 59), 3-Walker Zimmerman, 13-Tim Ream (Capt.), 5-DeJuan Jones; 14-Emeka Eneli, 6-Benjamin Cremaschi (23-Caden Clark, 46); 19-Indiana Vassilev (15-Max Arfsten, 69), 10-Diego Luna (11-Matko Miljevic, 46), 17-Brian Gutiérrez (16-Jack McGlynn, 46); 8-Brian White (7-Patrick Agyemang, 75)Substitutes not used: 1-Patrick Schulte, 21-Matt Freese, 20-George CampbellHead coach: Mauricio Pochettino Stats Summary: USA / CRCShots: 11 / 9Shots on Goal: 5 / 3Saves: 3 / 2Corner Kicks: 4 / 6Fouls: 16 / 14Offside: 0 / 0 Misconduct Summary:CRC – Santiago van der Putten (Caution) 39th minuteUSA – Miles Robinson (Caution) 40CRC – Fernán Faerron (Caution) 65USA – Jack McGlynn (Caution) 69USA – Matko Miljevic (Caution) 72 Officials:Referee: Cristhofer Corado (GUA)Assistant Referee 1: Cristian Alvarado de Leon (GUA)Assistant Referee 2: Aczel Perez (GUA)4th Official: Sergio Reyna (GUA) Michelob Ultra Man of the Match: Zack Steffen