Vacation Travelers Group Blog

Forbidden islands have long captivated, especially ones shrouded in mists, forests and legends of treasure, pirates and Indians. Add world-class diving and snorkeling along with a world hot spot for lightning strikes, and you get one of the most fantastic and unique islands on the planet. Caño Island is all this, plus you can visit it without going on an extended cruise.

While most of the world’s most famous wild islands are reached by heading out to sea for days at a time, Caño Island lies less than an hour’s boat ride off Costa Rica’s southern Pacific coast. Lodges from Drake Bay on the Osa Peninsula to Manuel Antonio on the Central Pacific take visitors to the island daily.

Most of Caño Island Biological Reserve is forbidden to visitors; one small section of beaches and two short trails on the northwest side of the island are all most people are allowed to see. Six dive sites and two snorkel areas, again on the northwest side of the island, make up the meager portion of the marine protected area that is not forbidden.

Allowing only a small part of the island to be used seems to be working well. With hundreds of hotels and operators from all over Costa Rica offering tours to the island, it seems that limiting the number of visitors just makes everyone want to go to the island more – and pay more.

Thousands of boats a year visit the island, many paying for people to swim in the waters and hang out on the beach. Sportfishing and superyachts invariably motor around for better chances of catching fish just outside the protected waters, and for the views of thick forests and waterfalls cascading into the sea. The fact that a great part of the island is sure to be untouched seems to be its greatest attraction.

The competition for the island’s next greatest attraction is fierce. Some of the healthiest coral reefs left in the world, or birthing and mating waters for two hemispheres of humpback whales? The accounts of Sir Francis Drake dumping Spanish silver to load more gold, or pre-Columbian mystery stone spheres? Costa Rica’s best mainland dive sites, or the best Pacific coast snorkeling? Lots of whitetip sharks, or lots of giant stingrays? Vast fish schools the size of clouds, or the resident spotted dolphin clan? That Caño gets more lightning strikes than anywhere in the world part of the year, or that the island is named for its ring of singing streams cascading to the sea?

One thing Caño Island does not have much of is wildlife. The ancient forests of thick, giant trees towering overhead are strangely and peacefully quiet. The cacophony concerts of the mainland Osa Peninsula rain forests are absent on Caño. Here, the breeze through the trees, the crashing surf, the running waters and the haunting call of the Inca dove predominate.

You will see no macaws or jaguars at Caño Island. There are so few birds, insects, mammals, reptiles, amphibians, freshwater fish and plant species for one reason: the island effect. Small islands do not have the space needed to produce the necessary diversity for groups big enough to prevent inbreeding. For this same reason, the small ring of marine protected area around the island is not big enough to protect whales and dolphins, sharks and billfish and turtles into the future. Only big protected areas protect big animals.

The island does have some endemic stream fish species and amphibians found nowhere else in the world, although tourists do not get to see them. To save the unique and fragile animals that do live on the island, only two trails were made for visitors, and these may soon shut down to minimize the effects of sedimentation in the island’s streams. Treasure and Indian artifacts are hidden, except for a rather lame pile of artifacts set up so people can see something and that gives them less reason to hike about. Hiking is best left… read more from original resource

“Odissey 2050″, an animated film made in Costa Rica was released to the public last Friday. The movie was produced in collaboration with the British Embassy, and its purpose is to teach about climate change and the destructive actions of humans on Earth.

“We are very happy to have this great opening here in Costa Rica; in this country there is a lot of talent among youths, and thanks to this initiative, a lot of kids are going to be able to learn about the importance of taking care of the planet,” said Bruce Callow, from the Communications Office of the British Embassy.

“Odyssey 2050″ was declared of Public and Cultural Interest by President Laura Chinchilla in May this year. According to the movie’s website, the project wants to present in a fun and enthusiastic way, the consequences of climate change.

The film also represents a big leap in the Costa Rican movie industry.

“Costa Rica has a lot of potential in the field of animation, because there is not only talent, but also a lot of creativity,” said Alejandro Hernández, Director of Science and Technology Promotion of the MICIT.

“This is just small sample of what could be done. It is the first animated movie produced in Costa Rica and directed by a Costa Rican,” he added.

Synchro Studio started developing the project two years ago. The movie was directed by the tico Thelvin Cabezas. The first of 10 modules of “Odyssey 2050″ was presented during the visit of Jeremy Browne, Foreign Affairs Minister and member of the British Parliament, last week.

Browne said that the British Government wants to closely collaborate with Costa Rica in the protection of the environment and the fight against climate change.

Luis Liberman, second vice-president; Enrique Castillo, Minister of Foreign Affairs, and Sharon Campbell, British Ambassador in Costa Rica, also attended the activity and presented recognition certificates to a group of students who participated in a workshop destined to reflect on the importance of preserving the planet.

Tourists have come to associate Costa Rica with breathtaking views of the likes of Arenal, Irazu, Poas and Turrialba; lush rainforests, beautiful, exotic beaches, great surfing, and a love of nature that is embodied in both the land and its people. The diverse collection of avians-both those that visit during their migrations north and south and those that call Costa Rica “homenest” have attracted observers from the world over to view and experience these feathered explorers up close and personal.

Yet there is another group of unique and compelling creatures that may not come to mind at first blush but which are as essential and important to the essence of Pura Vida as the land itself-the four groups of monkeys who call the rainforests home and whose diversity, antics and abilities underscore just how special these simian spectators are to Ticos, tourists, and ex-pats alike.

You can find monkeys in the many national parks throughout Costa Rica as well in many unusual places-such as in the trees of resorts near Tamarindo, off-road trails in the Nicoya Peninsula, and near the restaurants and roadways around Quepos and Manuel Antonio. To see all four groups at the same time, visit the Corcovado National Park located on the Osa Peninsula.

Found in abundance near Manuel Antonio National Park (among other places) is the most interactive and, perhaps, intelligent of the four monkey groups-the white-faced capuchin (named because the white face and black “hood” resembled the Capuchin Friars) monkey. Called cara Blanca in Spanish because of it’s white face, this lithe and inquisitive creature will think nothing of “visiting” backpacks and other bags or containers to see what goodies its human relatives may have left for the taking. The capuchin is also part handyman-using sticks or other convenient items to assist them in navigating the curious containers of humanity.

The most colorful of the four is the orange and gold squirrel monkey. Known to Ticos and non-Ticos alike as “titi” these small, active beings live in the lower, scrub woodlands and will come to visit (at least at a safe distance) if you happen to be close to their territory. From personal experience, I can tell you that they are not camera shy and are eager to “pose” for photographs. (See picture attached).

The most elusive and one of the largest of the four types is the Spider Monkey. With the official name of Geoffroy’s Spider Monkey (a name almost as long as the arms and legs of this furry acrobat), called mono colorado in Spanish, it can be seen navigating the treetops of the rainforest canopy almost as if suspended with wires from some invisible source. The fact that the spider is large -males coming in at a “robust” 18 lbs-doesn’t seem to have affect its aerial skills or mobility.

Last, but by no means least, is the Howler. Known as congo to the those who live here in this lush paradise (and to many who want to make the land of Pura Vida their home), the Howler’s impressive vocal abilities can carry several kilometers at dawn or dusk. Being woken up by “Howler Alarm Clock” –while jolting at first, soon becomes a welcome part of the start of another day in the land of Pura Vida. It is a toss-up as to whether the Howler or the Spider is the largest-different authorities credit one or the other as being “top monkey”. Regardless, both are impressive in different and wonderful ways.

These special simians have also made homes with their human cousins as pets. The spider, squirrel and capuchin can all be found throughout Costa Rica with those who care for them. The howler, although the least numbered in captivity is, ironically, the greatest numbered in the wild and is most likely the first of the monkey clan that will be encountered.

Four types of monkeys-different sizes, traits, colors and, yes personalities. Whether you are a first time visitor, a returning traveler, ex-pat, or Tico, keep your eyes open and enjoy observing these Pura Vida primates as they open their world to any and all who wish to be a part of a very special piece of Costa Rica.

Although activities that mess with local ecosystems to let humans experience nature usually seem intrusive, looking at the canopy face to face while slowly traveling in an aerial tram in the Costa Rican rainforest is a fairly respectful experience that’s great to understand the richness and importance of this habitat.

“We were paying $1,800/month for health insurance…and we’re not sickly people. So essentially we paid $1,800 every month and the only thing we got in return was an occasional doctor’s visit.”

Andy and Fran began intently searching for fairness in an unfair world. Luckily, they found it.

Three years ago, Andy and Fran (then in their late 50s) did something extraordinary—which turned out to be exactly the right thing for them to do.

They sold out of the U.S. and moved to Costa Rica. They’re happy here. And not only that, but they’ve reduced their annual expenses by 65%. Their cost of living in Costa Rica (and Fran keeps impeccable budget records) is just $2,500 per month. And that includes their health insurance and health care costs!

How did they do it? And why did they choose Costa Rica? We discovered all those details and more today during Day 1 of International Living’s Live and Invest in Costa Rica Seminar 2011.

I’m Suzan Haskins and I’m your Conference Insider, reporting to you from San Jose, Costa Rica. I wish you were here, too—we’re learning why this country makes so much sense for those who….like Andy and Fran Browne…are looking to find a way to stretch their modest incomes yet enjoy the same top quality of life as if they were still working.

Andy and Fran are definitely enjoying life and spending less to do so in Costa Rica. They’re hanging out on boogie boards instead of in board rooms and are playing with their two dogs on the beach instead of coming home dog-tired after a day at office.

“We’re living better, feeling better and having a kick-ass time,” Andy reports enthusiastically as Fran adds: “We live in a two-bedroom, two-bath house with pool, a fenced yard for our dogs, and it’s a five-minute walk to the beach where I go every day. And we pay $1,000 a month for it. We couldn’t do that in the States.

“If we turned 65 today, would we go back home? No way. We’re having too much fun.”

Lower Costs and Less Stress in Costa Rica

Andy and Fran shared their monthly budget and their strategy for stretching their money as far as possible (and simplifying their lives as much as possible).

They also shared their #1 tip for success in Costa Rica. Makes sense to me and it will to you, too, when you learn what it is. Follow their lead and your life will cost far less and cause you much less stress indeed.

We also heard from Costa Rican attorney Roger Petersen. (If this guy’s not in your offshore rolodex, he should be.)

Roger shared LOTS of information today (with more to come tomorrow), including that you can live infinitum in Costa Rica as a perpetual tourist. He knows a guy, in fact, who has been here 10 years on a tourist visa.

But just because you can do it doesn’t mean you should…

Roger says that if you want to live in Costa Rica, the best plan of attack is to get residency status. (Don’t confuse this with citizenship—you needn’t give up your home citizenship to live legally in Costa Rica.)

What’s the difference between a pensionado and a rentista visa? Roger explained. How… read more

resource- We Love Costa Rica, by Cassidy Scheer

At the northern tip of the Osa Peninsula lies the Sierpe-Terraba Humedal. At over 68,000 acres in size, this mangrove and wetlands preserve has great ecological and recreational value.

Along it’s southern limit flows the mighty Sierpe River. The Sierpe is unique in Costa Rica as it is the only river that is fully navigable from it’s source all the way through it’s mouth into the Pacific Ocean in all tides, 365 days a year, by boats of all sizes.

Like large rivers across the world, it undergoes a serious transformation in look and character as it flows from its headwaters in the Sierpe Lagoon towards the Pacific Ocean. Fortunately for visitors and residents, all areas of the Sierpe River offer a variety of adventure oriented aquatic activities.

The quaint, friendly, little town of Sierpe is the unofficial border between the upper and lower river and offers easy access to both.

The majority of the lower river is characterized by wide channels, sandbars, and shallow banks covered with 5 types of large, mature mangrove trees. The tidal influences are greatest here with changes in water level up to 12 feet occurring at certain times of the year.

The river here “snakes” quite severely – hence it’s name “Sierpe” which means “to move in a serpentine fashion” in Spanish. The water – because it is closer to the ocean – is high in salinity, nutrient load, and life. Numerous bird species specially adapted to life in the mangroves can be spotted here.

It is the lower river that is most often shown in photographs and used for tourist activities. It is the gateway to the ocean and has lots of recreational value. On either side of the mouth are fine examples of Osa Peninsula beaches at their most pristine and private.

Uncommon is the day that you’ll be sharing them with any other human beings. Scarlet Macaws, toucans, and green parrots are frequent visitors however.

Enjoying these beaches is as easy as beaching your boat in the small inlets on either side of the river and adjusting your anchor every hour or so to compensate for tidal movement. This is also a great spot for surfing. Both right and left breaking waves occur in several areas. Just like the beaches here, these waves will usually belong to you and you alone.

Another favored activity in the lower river is fishing. A variety of species inhabit the lower river with red snapper, snook, corvina, and goliath grouper being the most popular with anglers because of their sporting and culinary qualities. Rare is the occasion that a knowledgeable fisherman doesn’t return home with some fresh fish fillets for dinner.

Finally, the lower river is a great place to go wake-boarding, paddle-boarding, or kayaking. The wide, deep coves of the lower river offer calm, glass-like conditions in which… read more

New research may just take the sting out of mosquito bites. Scientists say the insects can help determine if river water is clean enough for humans to drink. After months of research, scientists in Costa Rica found that mosquitoes from the Dixa Midge family are purists when it comes to their water supply. They can only survive in unpolluted waters that contain high oxygen levels – a sign that bacteria levels in water are low. Luis Guillermo Chaverri is a researcher from the National Biodiversity Institute of Costa Rica (INBio).

“It’s a species that can help us to determine the quality of the water, without chemical analysis. It’s a first approach to knowing the quality of the water.” Chaverri says that if pollution from chemical residues or waste is present in the water, oxygen levels are low – and mosquitoes and their larvae can not survive.

“If the river is polluted, two things happen, firstly the mosquito will become infected with chemical substances. The mosquito will get poisoned and secondly, with contaminated water, oxygen levels are very low so the mosquito will find it tough to breathe.”

Researchers plan to teach locals living around the River Torres how to use the bugs to identify clean drinking water.

The dixa midge is commonly found near rivers and could help communities all over the world.

On July 24, the President of Costa Rica, Laura Chinchilla will open the 35 MW Pailas Geothermal Power Plant, at the volcano Rincon de la Vieja.

In an article in the national newspaper, the development cost were US$221.8 million and is now in the final stages of construction. It is expected that the plant will generate enough power to supply 92,000 families.

The project was developed as part of a lease-purchase with funds from the Central American Bank for Economic Integration (BCIE) and will be operated by the Instituto Costaricense de Electricidad (ICE), but is owned by BCIE.

Five geothermal wells will fuel a 35 MW generating unit. It was planned to go online in late 2010.

Costa Rica is not a new player in the geothermal world, having begun exploration of its geothermal resources in 1963, with its first plant going online in 1994. The current installation is 163.5 MW in the Miravallas geothermal field.

The earth’s population spends more money on killing the planet than saving it, according to Carlos Manuel Rodriguez, VP for conservation policy at Conservation International.

Rodriguez, also formerly Costa Rica’s Minster of Environment and Energy, was speaking in Cape Town last week at the Cambridge Resilience Forum about how Costa Rica has been one of the most successful countries in the world in working towards a low-carbon economy using a system known as payment for ecosystem services (PES).

Rodriguez was a pioneer in Costa Rica in the development and implementation of this system, where Costa Ricans are paid for any carbon sequestration, water and biodiversity ‘services’ they provide.

“Costa Ricans have learned that we are unable to succeed in achieving our standards, targets and goals of social development and economic development without investing heavily in wisely using our natural resources and ecosystem,” he said.

Costa Rica is a biodiversity ‘hot spot’ where, in 1940, 75% of the country was covered in forests. This dropped to only 21% in 1987 as the financial incentives of the time were geared to changing unproductive landscapes into productive landscapes. Forests were mostly considered unproductive, resulting in deforestation. In 1991, the Costa Rican government realized that the incentives being paid were essentially bad investments and needed to be reconsidered.

In the early 1990s, Costa Rica subsequently analyzed the benefits from healthy ecosystems. The analysis resulted in a policy which identified that owners of forests were supplying environmental services to the country in the form of carbon sequestration and so could be paid for those services. The intention was that this would encourage further reforestation by other landowners.

Environmental Services

Vehicles such as carbon taxes were implemented, which then created the income that could be paid to the providers of the environmental services.

The PES system was dramatically successful and payment for carbon sequestration services resulted in the restoration of a significant number of forests and, by 2005, the forest-covered area of the country increased to 52%. PES meant it had become profitable for landowners to reforest.

The system had other benefits which were not initially anticipated. Of the people that received payment for environmental services, 30% were considered extremely poor, said Rodriguez. Unwittingly, the Costa Rican government had designed a market instrument for forest conservation that also had a significant human benefit as a by-product. Rodriguez was able to show examples where communities had used PES funds to build homes and schools and, in doing so, uplifted themselves.

In addition to payment for carbon sequestration, the PES system now also pays for water and biodiversity services. He said that payment for water services “is an area where I see a great opportunity for South Africa”.

Commenting on South Africa’s road towards environmental sustainability, he noted other parallels with Costa Rica. “When I travel around rural South Africa, I see you have a major challenge in restoration, not just in conservation. I believe that the dimension and scale of the restoration are even bigger and more complex.”

Costa Rica should be an example for South Africa as it has shown that environmental sustainability and social development can go hand in hand. Where it was once the poorest country in the western hemisphere, it now ranks top of the ‘Happy Planet Index’, which measures the well-being of people in the nations of the world while taking into account their environmental impact. Costa Rica aims to be fully carbon neutral by 2021.

By: Jean McKenzie