South Pacific Costa Rica Magazine : simplebooklet.com

Page 3

25 ACRE FARM WITH INCREDIBLE VIEWS OF THE PACIFIC AND CHIRRIPO$350,000 USID 079-00930TROPICAL RAINFOREST LAND FOR SALE WITH STUNNING VIEWS OF THE GOLFO DULCE$300,000USID 079-00631LUXURY, OCEANVIEW HOME OVERLOOKING PLAYA BALLENA$825,000ID 079-00883LARGE OCEAN  MOUNTAIN VIEW LOT PHASE 5 OJOCHAL$120,000USID 079-00959AWARD WINNING BEACH FRONT HOME ON GOLFO DULCE$1,600,000 USID 079-00794ROOFTOP TERRACE HOUSE NEAR OJOCHAL CASCADA$250,000USID 079-00556FAMILY HOME IN PÉREZ ZELEDÓN$300,000USID 079-00794ONE OF KIND! OCEAN FRONT B&B AND HOTEL ON PLAYA COLONIAL$669,000USID 079-00667RECENTLY BUILT PRESSURE-TREATED PINE WOOD HOME WITHIN WALKING DISTANCE TO THE BEACH.$259,000 USID 079-00698LARGE LOT W/MOUNTAIN VIEW READY TO BUILD. LEGAL WATER PHASE 11$95,000USID 079-00723OCEANVIEW BOUTIQUE HOTEL AND TWO HOMES IN UVITA$995,000USID 079-00626GORGEOUS 2 BEDROOM HOME & POOL ON A LARGE 2 ACRE LOT$395,000USID 079-00420Lorem ipsumLorem ipsumBallena Homes is a company that specializes in "Custom Home Construction". Included in ourcompetitive pricing are the services of specialist in home design, architectural adaptation of the chosendesign, non-compromising engineering to current code and a team of dedicated construction managers.The key of our success is quite simply, our Team. When you build with Ballena Homes you gain thebenefit of years of Costa Rica construction experience. Guaranteed quality materials - Guaranteed quality Construction -Guaranteed Pricing Ballena HomesEFFICIENT - EXPERIENCED - PROFESSIONAL/ Phone: 8856 9800Web Site: BallenaHomes.com / Email: Innovation@BallenaHomes.comCUSTOM HOME CONSTRUCTION

Page 4

LODGING1. Hacienda Barú 2. Hotel Cuna del AngelRESTAURANTS3. Pizza La Casita (Take-out Service)4. Hacienda Barú5. Tasty6. Cuna del Angel7. Scala 8. 8. Sibu Café ACTIVITIES9. Reptilandia 10. Hacienda BarúSERVICES11. AAA Accounting 12. Feria Orgánica Tinamaste13. Pacic Coast Law 14. Blue Morpho 15. Body Revitalization CenterLODGING50. Tangara Azul Boutique Hotel51. Hotel Diquis del Sur 52. Three Sixty Boutique Hotel 53. Hotel Alma de OjochalRESTAURANTS54. Pancito Café55. Citrus Restaurant & Wine Bar56. El Castillo 57. SudACTIVITIES58. Reserva Tortuga59. Lalo Tours Horseback RidingSERVICES60. Bahia Ballena Doctors 61. Ballena Legal Team 62. Plaza Ventanas 63. Century 21 & Ballena Properties 64. Ballena Homes65. Remax / We Sell Paradise 66. Farmacia & Macrobiotics Ibarra 67. Osa Tropical Properties 68. Dra Mariela SolisDOMINICALOJOCHALLODGING16. Vista Ballena 17. Cristal Ballena18. Bungalows Ballena 19. TucanRESTAURANTS20. Beehive 21. Sibu 22. Gelato 23. Retro Café y Bar 24. The Dome 25. Five Maes 26. House of Ginger 27. Ballena Bistro 28. Pura Vida (Cristal Ballena) 29. Villas Leonor30. Moana Bahía Plaza31. SimbiOsa32. Le French CaféSERVICES33. Discount Liquor Wine & Cigars 34. Cortinas Krisa 35. Osa Property Management36. Iglesia La Costa 37. Ropa Americana Buena Voluntad 38. Correo de Uvita UVITA39. Tecno Soluciones H 40. Rincón de Uvita 41. Royal Palm 42. Mora & Valdéz 43. Farmacia Ibarra 44. RVA Engineer Roger Valverde45. Uvita Law Firm 46. Costatika Language School 47. Centro Llantero 48. Legal del Sur 49. Pointing Market & Ballena TalesDIRECTORYBUSINESS

Page 5

Page 6

Page 7

100% recyclable heavy-duty tropical rooﬁng material with a 20-years decreasing warranty*. Certiﬁed ISO 9001Techos Tropicales Palmex - Tel. (506) 2786-5126palmex@palmex-costarica.com - www.palmex-costarica.comCentro de visitantes Parque Nacional Tortuguero, Arq. Ibo Bonilla, Constructora REYCOAlready 15 years in Costa Rica* Conditions apply.PHONE DIRECTORYPOLICE STATIONS Police Emergencia: 911Transit : 2537 0631Dominical: 2787 0406Uvita: 2743 8538Ojochal: 2786 5661Cortés: 2788 8030 HOSPITALS & HEALTH Hospital Tomás Casas (Cortés): 2786 8148Hospital Escalante Pradilla (Pérez Zeledón): 2785 0700Servicios Médicos Bahía-Ballena: 2743 8595Farmacia Ibarra: 2743 8558EBAIS: 2743 8170Ópticas del Sol: 2102 0122ICE Information: 1113International Operator: 1116Breakdown: 1119OTHERS VETERINARIO COSTA BALLENA: 8730 8282MINAE: 2786 5392 ENVIRONMENTAL COMPLAINTS: 1192TAXIS DOMINICAL Erick 8602 3394Guiligan 8847 0231Ricardo (minibús 4x4) 8605 0801Daniel (pick-up) 8920 2322 UVITA Alex (freight) 8989 2298Carlos (freight) 8308 2695 Geovanni (minibús) 8870 6040Greivin 8791 5680Hermes (minibús) 8855 3830Lusbín 8576 7606Mario 8839 8484Rodolfo (freight) 5711 6868.com

Page 8

EDITORIALCONTENT #79Directory . . . . . . . . . . . .Content . . . . . . . . . . . . Editorial . . . . . . . . . . .Title StoryRainy Season Sunsets / Denisse Cattano - Conecat. . . . . . . . .070809271012151617Ceiba The Largest Wooden Cargo Ship in the World / Jeremy Starn . . . . . .What Ballena Tales Can Do for You / Carlos LeonNaturalistic Vivariums / Roel de Plecker - Reptilandia . . . . . . . . . . .Pumas vs Pecaries / Jack Ewing . . . .Eight Mistakes to Avoid / Kevin Champagne -Osa Tropical Property 10 Costa Ballena & Surrounding2122252729Simplied Tax Regime / Mauro Esquivel – AAA Accounting . . . . . . . . .Mareas . . . . . . . . . . . . .The Locals: Debbie Zec / Greg Gordon. . . Rainy Season Sunsets / Denisse Cattano - Conecat. . . . . . . . .Spend Time on the Beach and Do Good / The Vegan Pirates . . . . . . . .20 Dominical & Surrounding5457586163Look Good & Feel Good / Bahía Ballena Doctors Pancito Cafe / Dagmar ReinhardRestaurant List . . . . . . . . . . .The Wahoo Are Biting! / Capitan Willy Atencio - Fish Drake Bay . . . . . . . . .A Day in Real Estates, an Adventure Trip /Dinia Otárola – Remax W ell Sell Paradise . . 57 Ojochal & Surrounding3133363941434547495153Mora y Valdez . .Restaurant List . . . . . . . . . Slothlandia / Beth Sylver . . . . . . The Origins of Creole Food / Natalia Saray . . 5 Days for Good UpdateSuperb Costa Rican Coffe / Dagmar Reinhard Protecting your Home / Nick Halverson – Osa Property Management . . . . . . .Star is Born / Dagmar Reinhard . . . . . 12 Years in a Jungle paradise / Kelly Sylvester Cocos Island: the Coral Museum / InnoceanaWhy Doesn’t Anyone Want To Adopt Me? /Susan Strong - DAWG30 Uvita & Surrounding51 63Dear reader,Ballena Tales Team36

Page 9

9DAGMAR REINHARD Editor in Chief(506) 8914 1568 / 2743 8778ballenatales@gmail.com Art & DesignPOINTING MARKETAÑÑESKA ARRIECHE ROONDIGITAL COORDINATORCarlos Leóncarlos@ballenatales.comCONTRIBUTING WRITERS: PHOTOGRAPHY COVER PHOTO: CONECATNEXT EDITION September 15th, 2021 Deadline August 2nd, 2021EDITORIALI nally received the illumination about what to share with you, and here I am at my desk by 7.57 AM to write this editorial!Our working space is open, with six windows allowing the breeze to circulate throughout the house. In front of the wide-open windows, we can watch the iridescent hummingbirds urgently pecking at pink and violet owers extracting all the nectar they can nd. A giant buttery of all colors interrupts the bacchanalia settling on one of the blooms and taking it much easier than the hectic tiny hummingbird. On another window, a beauty of a brown-red Sitta is at work staring at his reection in the pane, his crest ercely upright, getting all excited since he is sure that this is a rival that must be eliminated by furiously poking at the glass.Sometimes a toc-toc-toc in quick succession like red from a machine-gun comes from very nearby. Grabbing the trunk of a dead tree with his feet, butting the wood with powerful pecks up to 16 times per second to open a hole, feasting on tiny insects, or creating his nest for the next generation of woodpeckers. The wild yellow sunowers towering over the roof of the ofce attract more butteries and birds. Our team, during lunch, watches a fat iguana resting in the branches of a papaya tree, letting one leg hanging down and his soul hanging out. Now, in the afternoon, rain is resuming, and suddenly it is storming really hard (it is the beginning of the rainy season), the humid green turns even greener than it was in the sunny morning. It reminds me of the song Raindrops keep falling on my head …, because I`m free, nothing is worrying me. We hope that at 5 PM, the rain has stopped to go for a walk with our doggies to the nearby river, which they love, and we too, just putting our feet in the fast streaming transparent water, is grounding us to Gaia or Mother Earth again. Apart from watching nature in full display, we have been working hard today to nish another beautiful edition with more enjoyable news about our community, illustrated with lovely photography by gifted artists who love Costa Ballena as much as we do. And remember, Everything is linked for your benet and enjoyment!Yours sincerely, Dear reader,anneska@ballenatales.comBeth SylverBrad Dean Captain Willy Atencio Carlos León Dagmar Reinhard Denisse Cattano Dinia Otárola Céspedes Greg Gordon Hannes & Tina Jack Ewing Jeremy Starn J.S. Parrish Kelly Sylvester Laura VanopdenboschMauro EsquivelNatalia Saray SC Nick Halverson Dra. Priscilla Mora Kevin Champagne Roel de Plecker Susan StrongBallena Tales PhotographyBeth Sylver Conecat Innoceana Jack Ewing Jeremy Starn Roel de Plecker

Page 10

CEIBA – THE LARGEST WOODEN CARGO SHIP IN THE WORLDAUTHOR: JEREMY STARNWhen the sun rises over the mangroves in the early morning, the howler monkeys begin their chorus. The birds soon follow, and the shipbuilders at AstilleroVerde (Green Shipyard) start to rouse. The shipbuilders start their day at 6:30 am, building the largest wooden cargo ship in the world. Constructed entirely from sustainably harvested trees, this three-masted wooden sailing ship will carry 250 tons of coffee from Costa Rica up to Ca-nada and the United States. SAILCARGO INC is the company behind the singular vision to promote access to sustainable supply chains. Their rst ship Ceiba is built using traditional wooden shipbuilding techniques alongside time-saving machi-nes. It’s a common sight to witness giant 2-ton wooden structures hoisted by hand while chainsaws, tractors, and electric winches speed up other laborious work. State-of-the-art computer modeling also helps engi-neers design the best onboard safety systems.Ceiba will move cargo using the power of the wind with a backup electric engine that can help in low winds or harbors. This electric engine is powered by batteries charged from the ship’s propellers while un-der sail, making the vessel entirely propelled by re-newable energy. The company is also researching the use of green hydrogen fuel cells that may be used in their future ships. To research this new technology SAILCARGO INC has begun working with Costa Rican company Ad Astra Servicios Energéticos y Ambientales (AASEA) led by Costa Rican engineer and astronaut Dr. Franklin Chang Díaz. The two companies promote their “Hy-drogen for the Sea” campaign to promote the deve-lopment and implementation of hydrogen fuel cells in the maritime industry.

Page 11

The “Hydrogen for the Sea” campaign will begin with a joint funding effort to promote the research and implementation of hydrogen systems in cargo ships. Thanks to Costa Rican national electricity being pro-duced from 99% renewable resources, the production of green hydrogen using electricity from the national grid is a zero-emission process. Dr. Chang Díaz is optimistic that this collaboration de-monstrates the potential for projects that are being developed in Costa Rica. “The best way to change the paradigm and educate the population is through demonstrable and real projects that can give visible results as we are doing.SAILCARGO INC is announcing plans to build a se-cond ship of the same design to satisfy market de-mands. Northbound voyages for both ships have already been lled with more demand remaining for further eet expansion. CEO Danielle Doggett said, “Costa Rica is the best place to be right now in terms of building an envi-ronmentally forward business. This is because of the country’s commitment to leading the world to a more sustainable future.” SAILCARGO INCs vision offers zero-emission value-added shipping services to help promote access to sustainable supply chains. INITIATIVE - COSTA BALLENA & SURROUNDINGS11

Page 12

Ballena Tales is the brand of the best-read magazinein the South Pacic of Costa Rica. This is thanks to the pleasant stories published about this beautiful destination, the way of life of its communities, the imposing nature that it possesses, the initiatives for its development, actions to protect the environment, and other diverse stories about lifestyle, real estate, investment tips, and professional services. Being Ballena Tales not a news outlet, the publications remain valid over time and strengthen the presence of brands online, not only their own, but also that of their advertisers. Unlike other print media, the expression of Ballena Tales Magazine is linked to a solid digital platform. It is a medium with a combined digital and print presence that gives it a penetration and audience superior to any other local medium.Published for the rst time in July 2008 and consecutively for 13 years, in this 79th edition, we celebrate our anniversary. Ballena Tales has positioned itself as a successful advertising medium in Costa Ballena and the South Pacic of Costa Rica. Ballena Tales and Pointing Market dedicate their combined efforts to promote, in up to three languages (English, Spanish and German), the brand of their advertisers with coordinated campaigns at local, national, and international levels.The implementation of Ballena Tales´ strategy, which includes the digital and printed expression of the magazine, has achieved positioning in search engines such as Google. Keywords are restaurants, hotels, real estate, yoga, car rental, catering. weddings, doctors, dentists, ophthalmologists, schools, lawyers, accountants, welfare, and others. You can verify this on your part.An essential part of this achievement is due to a team of diligent writers who create content that makes it possible for the most diversied searches to reach our website, thus supporting our advertisers’ brands.In 2020, digital commerce grew more than it had evolved in the previous ten years, and today we could reafrm that “if you are not on the Internet, you do not exist.” And appearing on the rst pages of Google gives you a huge advantage over your competition.Search engine positioning must be considered an essential element in any company’s marketing and communication strategy if we want our potential clients (leads) to nd us and buy our product. There are millions of daily searches on the Internet, and positioning your business is not easy since Google gives preference to organic trafc.According to Google Analytics data referring to Ballena Tales, in the last 90 days, an average of 1,144 daily visitors have been received. In the last 28 days 90,121 page views were reported, for an average of 2.8 pages per visitor. At the same time, it is imperative to note that the Ballena Tales Magazine focuses on Costa Ballena and the South Pacic of Costa Rica. WHAT BALLENA TALES CAN DO FOR YOUR BRAND!AUTHOR: CARLOS LEÓN

Page 13

Suppose you have a restaurant or hotel in Costa Ballena. In that case, it is advisable to place your business brand in the Ballena Tales business listings, thus positioning yourself immediately on the rst pages of Google and obtaining signicant coverage with the audience of our social media.In addition, your restaurant offers the advantage of publishing the menu online and having the brand spread on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter and through our mailing list with almost 2000 subscribers.If you own a business in the South Pacic or Costa Rica, you can connect your brand with thousands of readers who love traveling or are living with us. We are your neighbors in Costa Ballena, consult our offers without obligation, our advertising prices are more than reasonable.Get more information about advertising with us; it will be a pleasure to assist you!According to Google Analytics, the audience of the advertising medium is made up of 59.66% by visitors between 18 and 44 years of age, 59.49% of them women, they are people who speak English, who are established mainly in Costa Rica, the United States, Canada, and Germany.This is reected in the positioning of the market segment according to Google Analytics. In the image on page views, you can see that the market sectors in which this advertising medium is positioned fully respond to the niches that Ballena Tales advertisers seek to attract. COSTA BALLENA & SURROUNDINGS13

Page 14

AUTHOR: ROEL DE PLECKER NATURALISTIC VIVARIUMS AT PARQUE REPTILANDIASometimes in our exhibits, it can be hard to spot our belo-ved reptiles and amphibians to show them to our visitors. At Parque Reptilandia, we pride ourselves on the well-being of our animals. As a reptile curator, having visited many world-class zoos globally, I was always fascinated by how modern zoos try to mimic the animals’ natural environments, from building pieces of rainforests to deserts. Modern zoos these days spend more money on their exhibits, showing maybe fewer animals, more involved in a lot of breeding programs for species threatened by extinction. Formerly, the rst zoos were to show people a high diversity of exotic animals from all over the world mostly kept in poor conditions. This is why enclosures at Parque Reptilandia are designed in a way that the animals feel comfortable with their life in captivity, so hiding places are available. They were made in a way that people can still take a glimpse at the hidden scaly creatures. The enclosures are copies of the ecosystem of the presented species, in which I spend a lot of research into the design of the exhibits. Sometimes I look into literature, online or books, or check photographs I took when visiting the home range and biotope of the species. After this, the creations of rocks and trees are shaped by our handyman Fredy Arias Sequeira and this using tools, iron, mesh wire, and cement. This ‘rock art’ is also provided with hiding places, looking like small or big cavities depending on the needs of the species, which also serve as nesting boxes for the reptiles that lay eggs. More teamwork was enhanced, adding the knowledge of our gardener, Adonay Picado, by comparing plants from the habitats, and whenever available these were used to make the whole scene even more naturalistic. Also, natural logs, like driftwood, fallen branches, appropriate soil, dried leaves, mosses, and even an empty bottle of tequila completed the rest of the decorations. Some exhibits are in the open with only walls or screens se-parating our reptilian friends from the visitors, others have re-tractable roofs providing the necessary sunlight entering the enclosures or when rainfall is too high these same roofs keep our animals dry. As UV light is important for all life, so it is for the plants and animals in our naturalistic vivariums, please come and check them out! WILDLIFE - COSTA BALLENA & SURROUNDINGS14

Page 15

Page 16

PUMAS, PECCARY AND GOOD TASTEAUTHOR: JACK EWING About 45 years ago, I went on an adventure to the northern Caribbean coast and stopped at Tortugue-ro village. In the early 1970s, there were no hotels, no restaurants, and not much of a town. A lady, doña Rosa, would cook for anyone looking for a meal. The-re wasn’t a menu. Doña Rosa told you what you were going to eat, and your choice was yes or no. The only thing on the menu that day was rice and beans and white-lipped peccary steak. We ate our ll, and the meat was tasty. In those days, I had yet to fall in love with the rainforest and had no qualms about eating meat from a wild animal that a hunter had killed. A couple of years later, at Hacienda Barú, a neighbor gave me about a half kilo of meat from a collared pec-cary he had killed. Expecting it to be pleasing like the white-lipped peccary at doña Rosa’s house, I was in for a big disappointment. Rather than tasty, I would describe it as barely edible. Ever since I have wondered if the difference in tas-te might have something to do with why the colla-red peccary is so plentiful, and the white-lipped peccary is locally extinct in many places, including the Costa Ballena and most of Costa Rica. Human hun-ting appears to be the main reason, and taste may have been a factor. In addition to tasting better, the white-lipped variety travel in large herds that trample a swath through the forest that is easy to follow. Hunters with guns can usually approach the herd and kill several animals with ease. In contrast, the collared peccary travels in groups of 5 to 30 and walks pretty much in single le, making them harder to hunt.In the early 2000s, neighbors of Costa Ballena began reporting sightings of pumas. When I started capturing videos of pumas regularly on trail cameras, I assumed that the collared peccary population would diminish, but that didn’t happen. Instead, it conti-nued to grow. If the pumas were preying on them, the number they were killing was insignicant. A puma weighs more than twice as much as collared peccary. It is built for stalking and hunting, but pec-cary have long, sharp tusks that can leave a nasty gash. In an attack, the puma would undoubtedly kill the peccary. Still, there is a strong possibility that the cat would sustain a wound that would then become infected and possibly even fatal. The puma knows this and would want to avoid it. To my knowledge, no scientic study has been done on the subject. I guess that pumas only kill small, im-mature peccary that pose no danger. And, who knows, maybe the youngsters taste better than the old folks.WILDLIFE - COSTA BALLENA & SURROUNDINGS16

Page 17

EIGHT MISTAKES TO AVOID WHEN BUYING REAL ESTATEAUTHOR: KEVIN CHAMPAGNE OSA TROPICAL PROPERTIESWhether you’re a rst-time home buyer in Costa Rica or a seasoned investor, revisiting the basics and avoid these eight common mistakes can help you save time and money. Once you’re prepared, contact our team of agents who are ready to assist you nd your dream home.1. Not doing your researchIt’s crucial to not only look at the area of the property you want to purchase. It’s important to also research aspects like upcoming projects in the area, local amenities, rental yields, resale values, etc. Consider all the factors applicable to what you want out of this property.2. Not choosing the right propertyBetween raw land, homes, condos, and villas, there are many living options to consider. Check out the amenities and facili-ties offered by the developers as they play an essential role in your day-to-day life.3. Believing the photos and descriptions onlineBeware of photos of beaches and ocean views from high in the air. Some listers will want their property to appear like it’s closer to attractions or that it has a more open view than in actuality.4. Forgetting about extreme weather conditions. Some areas get more rain than others and are prone to oo-ding. A good realtor will be able to inform you which proper-ties to avoid due to extreme conditions.5. Thinking all tropical countries are the sameSome of the only things Costa Rica has in common with other Central American nations are that they all speak Spanish and are surrounded by beautiful, tropical scenery. Things like politics, lifestyle, culture, and environment can differ signicantly. Look beyond the postcard experience.6. Thinking that building a new home is cheaperIt isn’t easy to build a home today at the same price as buying an existing one. Materials, xtures, furnitu-re, and appliances have all increased in cost and scar-city as the volume of new construction has increased.7. Not realizing how long the building process takesGovernment bureaucracy and differences in labor practices can make building your dream home a lon-ger and more drawn-out process than people antici-pate.8. Forgetting about continuous maintenanceOwning a home in the tropics is more than a life of pure relaxation. The climate (sun, rain, humidity) takes a toll, so it’s best to keep a keen eye on how your home is weathering and stay on top of mainte-nance issues as they become evident. Is it your dream to own a piece of paradise in Costa Rica? We can help answer your questions in further detail.REAL ESTATE - COSTA BALLENA & SURROUNDINGS17

Page 18

Page 19

We are a real estate company with a purpose: We want to help you love where you live. Costa Rica’s South Pacic coast — where the mountains meet the sea and vi-brant greens and blues collide — may hold the property of your dreams. Find yourself living in a place you love when you work with trusted agents who honor a fteen year tradi-tion of great service, with integrity and experience. Discover yourself in Costa Ballena with Osa Tropical Properties.BEAUTIFUL SUNSETS LOT IN A GATED TROPICAL COMMUNITY0.51 ACRES | OCEAN VIEW | OJOCHAL | $149,000 | ID # 8079a tranquil and luxurious ocean view hideaway3 BEDROOMS, 4 BATHROOMS | OJOCHAL | $649,000 | ID # 5162LUXURY HOME IN CENTRAL LOCATION2 BEDROOMS | UVITA | $439,000 | ID # 8078modern MOUNTAIN VIEW HOME AND POOL3 BEDROOMS | OJOCHAL | $499,000 | ID # 5216OCEAN VIEW LOT IN PEACEFUL COMMUNITY0.35 ACRES | CHONTALES | $96,000 | ID # 9532dream destination mountain lot0.13 ACRES | OJOCHAL | $27,900 | ID # 9523Choice lot with WIDE OPEN OCEAN VIEW0.2 ACRES | OJOCHAL | $74,000 | ID # 3380HUGE VIEWS ON THE TOP OF THE HILL2 BEDROOMS | PALMAR | $350,000 | ID # 9004Discover yourself in Costa Ballenawww.osatropicalproperties.comwww.osatropicalproperties.comsouth pacific costa rica’s real estate expertsvisit us on our social media channels@OSATROPICALPROPERTIES3.14 acre front ridgeocean view lot IN OJOCHAL$699,000 | ID # 8030 p5 acre front ridgeocean view lot IN OJOCHAL$550,000 | ID # 8049 p+ more lots availablein this location

Page 20

Page 21

SIMPLIFIED TAX REGIMEAUTHOR: MAURO ESQUIVEL This article will interest you if you wish to orgni-ze and comply with your tax obligations in the best way. If you are an entrepreneur, working informally, you want or need to formalize your tax situation, you develop in any of the following activities: a) Bars, canteens, taverns or similar establishments, b) Re-tail merchants, c ) Photographic studies, d) Hand-crafted footwear manufacturing, e) Manufacture of furniture and its accessories, f) Manufacture of clay, earthenware, ceramics and porcelain objects, g) Manufacture of structural metal products, h) Flo-rists, i) Bakeries, j) Restaurants, cafes, sodas and other establishments that sell food, drinks or both, k) Small-Scale Artisanal Fishermen, l) Medium Ar-tisanal Fishermen, m) Small agricultural producers, n) Paid land transportation of people by taxi mode. The Simplied Tax Regime constitutes a voluntary and simple access option for small taxpayers to comply with tax duties, simplifying their obligations and accounting. Different tax rates and conditions apply to each activity that must be met.To calculate Taxes on Income and Value Added, the Tax Administration establishes an authorized factor applied to the total of purchases made during the period to be declared.Requirements to enter the Regimea) That annual purchases do not exceed 150 base salaries (base salary for 2021 = ₡ 462,200.00).b) That the number of workers necessary to carry out the activity does not exceed ve, regardless of the type of contractual or kinship relationship, whe-ther or not there is remuneration in this regard. For this purpose, the taxpayer’s participation will not be counted.c) The activity is not a franchise, brand, trade name, or that the same person maintains more than one establishment open to the public.d) For paid ground transportation of people by taxi mode, the number of vehicles dedicated to the acti-vity does not exceed one unit.e) The value of the xed assets used in the operation of the activity does not exceed 350 base salaries.Duties in the Simplied Regime• Have updated data in the Single Tax Registry, form D-140.• Keep the registration record in a visible place in the establishment.• Keep authorized electronic receipts and PDFs of purchases for ve years.• Deliver an invoice when the individual sale value of each merchandise exceeds 5% of a base salary and when the client requests it. You may voluntari-ly choose to issue electronic invoices, and if not, you must issue a pre-printed receipt that must contain specic characteristics and conditions.• Prepare and le D-105 tax returns on time every quarter. Even if you have not made any purchase, you must comply with the presentation of said decla-rations in zero to avoid penalties.• If you are a Legal Person, pay the annual Tax to Legal Persons and the Education and Culture Stamp.• Complete and present the annual informative de-claration D-151 when the commercial operations comply with the established conditions.ECONOMY - DOMINICAL 21

Page 22

DIA / DAY ALTA / HIGH BAJA / LOW ALTA / HIGH BAJA / LOW ALTA / HIGHTHU 15 00:05 0.49 ft 06:28 8.87 ft 12:31 0.98 ft 18:43 8.41 ftFRI 16 00:47 0.64 ft 07:12 8.89 ft 13:19 1.02 ft 19:31 8.16 ftSAT 17 01:33 0.83 ft 08:00 8.87 ft 14:12 1.09 ft 20:24 7.92 ftSUN 18 02:24 1.03 ft 08:53 8.83 ft 15:09 1.14 ft 21:23 7.73 ftMON 19 03:21 1.21 ft 09:52 8.83 ft 16:11 1.11 ft 22:28 7.69 ftTUE 20 04:23 1.31 ft 10:55 8.89 ft 17:16 0.95 ft 23:34 7.83 ftWED 21 05:29 1.27 ft 11:58 9.05 ft 18:20 0.67 ftTHU 22 00:38 8.15 ft 06:35 1.08 ft 13:00 9.28 ft 19:20 0.30 ftFRI 23 01:39 8.57 ft 07:37 0.80 ft 13:57 9.52 ft 20:16 −0.05 ftSAT 2402:34 9.01 ft08:34 0.52 ft 14:51 9.70 ft 21:07 −0.32 ftSUN 2503:26 9.36 ft09:28 0.31 ft 15:42 9.74 ft 21:56 −0.44 ftMON 2604:15 9.58 ft10:19 0.23 ft 16:31 9.63 ft 22:42 −0.39 ftTUE 2705:03 9.62 ft11:07 0.31 ft 17:18 9.36 ft 23:27 −0.16 ftWED 2805:49 9.48 ft11:54 0.54 ft 18:04 8.94 ftTHU 29 00:10 0.22 ft 06:34 9.20 ft 12:40 0.87 ft 18:50 8.43 ftFRI 30 00:54 0.72 ft 07:19 8.81 ft 13:27 1.26 ft 19:38 7.88 ftSAT 31 01:37 1.26 ft 08:05 8.38 ft14:16 1.65 ft20:28 7.35 ftFULL MOON NEW MOONMAREAS - TIDES JULIO / JULY 15-31, 2021FASES LUNARES / MOON PHASESMAP • Healing, Therapeutic & Sports Massage• Physio Therapy• Acupuncture (Traditional Chinese medicine)• Emotional Trauma Healing• Intuitive Spiritual Life Coaching• Nutrition - Lifestyle Guidance • Homeopathy• Craniosacral Therapy / Reiki• Spa Medicinal and Herbal Baths• Spa Hot Stone Relax Massage• Spa Facial High Frequency, Brossage, Ultrasonido, DermaPen.+506 86787622 massage.dominical@gmail.comIn the comfort of your Home or at our new InstituteBODY REVITALIZATION INSTITUTEJürgen Müller & his Team have much to offer:OPENING SOON IN DOMINICAL22DOMINICAL

Page 23

DIA / DAY ALTA / HIGH BAJA / LOW ALTA / HIGH BAJA / LOWSUN 01 02:24 1.80 ft 08:54 7.99 ft 15:09 1.97 ft 21:23 6.93 ftMON 0203:14 2.25 ft09:47 7.68 ft 16:06 2.16 ft 22:24 6.68 ftTUE 0304:11 2.57 ft10:44 7.53 ft 17:07 2.17 ft 23:27 6.65 ftWED 04 05:12 2.67 ft 11:41 7.55 ft 18:06 1.99 ftTHU 05 00:25 6.84 ft 06:12 2.56 ft 12:36 7.74 ft 18:58 1.67 ftFRI 06 01:18 7.19 ft 07:07 2.27 ft 13:25 8.04 ft 19:44 1.29 ftSAT 07 02:03 7.63 ft 07:55 1.86 ft 14:11 8.38 ft20:26 0.88 ftSUN 08 02:45 8.11 ft 08:39 1.40 ft 14:54 8.71 ft21:06 0.51 ftMON 09 03:24 8.56 ft 09:21 0.96 ft 15:34 8.97 ft21:43 0.21 ftTUE 10 04:02 8.97 ft 10:02 0.59 ft 16:15 9.13 ft22:21 0.01 ftWED 11 04:40 9.28 ft 10:42 0.33 ft 16:55 9.16 ft 22:59 −0.07 ftTHU 12 05:19 9.47 ft 11:24 0.20 ft 17:36 9.05 ft 23:39 −0.02 ftFRI 13 06:00 9.52 ft 12:08 0.23 ft 18:19 8.81 ftSAT 14 00:21 0.17 ft 06:44 9.42 ft 19:06 8.46 ftSUN 15 01:07 0.49 ft 07:32 9.19 ft 12:54 0.40 ft 19:59 8.06 ftMON 16 01:58 0.88 ft 08:26 8.88 ft 13:45 0.67 ft 21:00 7.70 ftTUE 17 02:57 1.27 ft 09:28 8.59 ft 14:43 0.96 ft 22:08 7.50 ftWED 18 04:05 1.55 ft 10:37 8.44 ft 15:48 1.18 ft 23:21 7.58 ftTHU 19 05:18 1.58 ft 11:47 8.48 ft16:59 1.19 ftFRI 20 00:29 7.91 ft 06:30 1.36 ft 12:51 8.71 ft18:08 0.98 ftSAT 21 01:30 8.40 ft 07:33 0.97 ft 13:49 9.01 ft19:11 0.61 ftSUN 22 02:24 8.91 ft 08:28 0.57 ft 14:41 9.26 ft20:05 0.22 ftMON 23 03:12 9.32 ft 09:16 0.26 ft 15:28 9.39 ft20:54 −0.10 ftTUE 24 03:56 9.56 ft 10:01 0.11 ft 16:12 9.37 ft 21:38 −0.27 ftWED 25 04:37 9.61 ft 10:44 0.12 ft 16:54 9.18 ft 22:19 −0.27 ftTHU 26 05:18 9.48 ft 11:24 0.29 ft 17:35 8.83 ft 22:58 −0.09 ftFRI 27 05:57 9.17 ft12:04 0.61 ft18:16 8.36 ft 23:37 0.26 ftSAT 2800:15 0.73 ft 06:37 8.75 ft18:58 7.82 ftSUN 2900:54 1.27 ft 07:18 8.27 ft 19:43 7.27 ftMON 3001:36 1.83 ft 08:03 7.78 ft 12:45 1.01 ft 20:35 6.78 ftTUE 3102:24 2.34 ft 08:56 7.36 ft 13:29 1.45 ft 21:37 6.46 ftFULL MOON NEW MOONFASES LUNARES / MOON PHASESMAREAS - TIDES AGOSTO / AUGUST 1-31, 2021MAP23DOMINICAL

Page 24

DIA / DAY ALTA / HIGH BAJA / LOW ALTA / HIGH BAJA / LOW ALTA / HIGHWED 01 03:23 2.71 ft 09:57 7.11 ft 16:19 2.30 ft 22:46 6.40 ftTHU 02 04:32 2.83 ft 11:03 7.10 ft 17:25 2.18 ft 23:51 6.64 ftFRI 03 05:41 2.64 ft 12:05 7.33 ft 18:24 1.83 ftSAT 04 00:46 7.10 ft 06:40 2.19 ft 12:58 7.74 ft 19:13 1.36 ftSUN 05 01:32 7.69 ft 07:30 1.59 ft 13:45 8.22 ft 19:55 0.84 ftMON 06 02:14 8.33 ft 08:14 0.95 ft 14:28 8.70 ft 20:35 0.34 ftTUE 07 02:53 8.94 ft 08:56 0.35 ft 15:09 9.10 ft 21:14 −0.09 ftWED 08 03:31 9.47 ft 09:36 −0.14 ft 15:49 9.36 ft 21:52 −0.38 ftTHU 09 04:10 9.85 ft 10:17 −0.46 ft 16:30 9.46 ft 22:32 −0.50 ftFRI 10 04:50 10.03 ft 10:59 −0.56 ft 17:12 9.36 ft 23:13 −0.42 ftSAT 11 05:32 9.98 ft 11:44 −0.44 ft 17:57 9.08 ft 23:57 −0.14 ftSUN 12 06:18 9.71 ft 12:31 −0.11 ft 18:45 8.64 ftMON 13 00:44 0.32 ft 07:08 9.25 ft 19:39 8.12 ftTUE 14 01:39 0.88 ft 08:05 8.70 ft 13:23 0.36 ft 20:44 7.66 ftFULL MOON NEW MOONFASES LUNARES / MOON PHASESSEPTIEMBRE /SEPTEMBER 1-14, 2021MAREAS - TIDES MAPRESTAURANTS DOMINICAL11:30 AM a 9 PM Entrance to Escaleras ft. of Hotel Cuna del Angel - 1.2 KM uphill Daily: 7 AM a 5 PM Entrance to Escaleras ft. of Hotel Cuna del Angel - 1.2 KM uphill 8805 8172SIGNATURE CUISINECONFERENCE ROOMBREAKFAST - BRUNCH - PASTRIESLOCAL ORGANIC COFFEE - ARTISAN BAKERY8805 8172DOMINICAL LOCALS: DEBBIE ZECDOMINICAL24

Page 25

When I visit Dominical, one of my favorite people to see in town or the water is Debbie Zec. I have known her since she was nine years old, and in that time, I’ve seen her grow into an outstanding woman and member of the Costa Ballena community. To know her better, though, you also have to know her parents. I rst met her mother, Zeidy, back in 1999. She is a recracker of energy and determination who cares deeply about the environment. She would lead the town meetings, especially calling attention to the pollution in our rivers and oceans. She was the rst to start replanting the mangroves along the Rio Baru, and also built and managed the recycling center in Dominical. At these events, Debbie and her younger sister Daniela (Mango y Salsa), always tagged along, helping to collect trash at the beach, recycle bottles, or plant trees. As Debbie grew older, she started leading her own cleanups and, more recently, conducted meetings in Dominical to stop the destruction of the Rio Baru. She mirrors the tenacity of her mother to protect the natural beauty of the area.Her father, Nick, is very laid back. I often see him hanging out in the shade by the beach, or with his pets out on the porch of his house, which also serves as the ofce for Dominical Surf School. Besides a friendly smile, he is also a multi-faceted businessman. He rents properties in town, occasionally sells real estate and manages the shop – renting boards and xing them. Debbie also picked up these entrepreneurial skills since she has curated one of the best surf camps in the country, bringing in hundreds of surf travelers from as far away as Russia!In the water, Debbie always has a smile on her face. She is a very uid surfer on a longboard and also can do some sharp snaps on a shortboard. Debbie is truly one of the wonderful locals that make Costa Ballena such a great community to live in.DOMINICAL LOCALS: DEBBIE ZECAUTHOR: GREG GORDONSPORTS - DOMINICAL25

Page 26

Page 27

AUTHOR: DENISSE CATTANOI have lived in Uvita for a year, and I am in love! I knew this area more than 25 years ago, when I was still a child, and since then, my heart has kept this place as a dream. I wanted to settle down, live, and hopefully grow old on this magical coast one day. A year ago, “the stars aligned” and allowed my husband and me to leave the city and make that dream come true, still alive after so many years.At this time, the rainy season had already started, and the coast greeted us with stormy climates, high tides, torrential rains, and lots and lots of humidity! But trust me, this didn’t put us off in the least; we were discovering Uvita in all its glory.One day we went for a walk with a great local friend of the area. After a long time together, sunset time was approaching. We went to one of the many mountains that decorate the fantastic Costa Ballena. I must confess that it was not inviting for the sunset as the sky was gray, there were many dark clouds over our heads. It almost looked like it could rain at any moment, but our friend insisted as a good connoisseur, and we ended up going up to see the show.At the horizon, a little light stood out behind the clouds. The sun was setting, and I remember thinking: “that was it.” But shortly after the clouds began to light up with magical colors, yellow and orange owed attracted by the sun, pinks and purples invaded everything to let the blue pass, and with it the night.I was in awe as I enjoyed the sky dance, and out loud, I said, “Wow! What a wonderful sunset!”; to which my friend replied, “Denisse, this time is the best for sunsets, because the sun goes down, but right after the good comes” He was so right! a sky without clouds does not allow the show of colors. Right afterward, our friend made another statement that opened my eyes even more, saying, “people don’t know what they are about to miss; many leave after watching the sunset. When the sun goes down on the horizon, they grab their cars and leave, not giving any time to magic.”I remember that moment with glee. For me, it was like a welcome full of love to our new home. Living at the coast, inspired by all the life that overows these lands, was an awakening that called me to appreciate EVERYTHING. Everything has its moment to shine because this land is blessed and blesses us all.I am in love with this place; it is not only its sunsets, its nature, its rivers, and its beaches; also the people who have received us, true friends, they are like family, ready to help. They are humble people, full of love, who share and take care of you.And I advise you: if you are in the area in this rainy season, go for the sunset! Magic can appear just before dusk.RAINY SEASON SUNSETS INITIATIVE - DOMINICAL& SURROUNDINGS27

Page 28

Page 29

Costa Rica offers stunning beaches - some well known, others are hidden treasures. But - as everywhere in the world - pollution is also happening here. Plastic, glass, metal, lost or abandoned shing gear, and other waste is not only causing sore eyes to visitors and locals but can be an immense threat to all wildlife! Most of the waste is washed ashore, and some brought into coastal areas through rivers. It can also result from not enough waste bins and/or the bad behavior of people who don’t care. So please take all trash with you, pay attention that you don’t lose small items (bottle caps, plastic parts, or foil), and don’t use the beach to get rid of your cigarette bu-tts. Butts are toxic hazards and are often the most found single waste items during beach clean-ups. This brings us to the part where you can get active - even on your vacation! If you spend a recreational day on the beach or walk along the shore, just take a bag or bucket with you to collect things that don’t belong there. For us, reusable bags work great. Use gloves (if you handle sharp or dir-ty objects) and bring a scissor or knife to cut entangled shing gear.We have collected so far on our clean-ups a vast collec-tion of products made by and for humans - e.g. plastic foils, Styrofoam, bottles, cans, lighters, toothbrushes, diapers, shoes, various toys, as well as shing lines, nets and even small buoys. The problem - especially with all the plastic items - is that they are getting smaller and smaller by the activity of the oceans - waves and surf - and therefore become dangerous microplastic, which gets eaten by many animals and is very harmful to wild-life. When you are eating sh, there is a good chance that you are eating it too. Scientists already found it in human organs. Please HELP both our oceans and wildlife, keep our bea-ches and river beds clean and spend some time there to do a clean-up. Nature and the animals will be grateful, and you will get yourself a good conscience. Post your activity on Social Media to spread awareness. And plea-se rethink your consumer behavior and Refuse, Reduce, Repurpose and Reuse things. Carry a reusable water bottle, avoid single-use plastic. You can also check with local communities, municipali-ties, or NGOs in your area if there are organized beach clean-ups that you could attend. They principally collect the trash, evaluate the different sorts, count microplas-tics, and dispose of all collected items the right way. Be part of the solution, save our Oceans!SPEND TIME ON THE BEACH AND DO GOOD!AUTHOR: THE VEGAN PIRATESINITIATIVE - DOMINICAL & SURROUNDINGS29

Page 30

Page 31

MORA & VALDEZ NOW AT THE NEW VITA PLAZAAUTHOR: DRA. PRISCILLA MORAMora & Valdez Dentistry was born from the illusionof improving smiles by doing what we like the most, “dentistry.”Thus, on a sunny afternoon in Barcelona outside the university, Priscila Mora and Ricardo Valdez, both dentists studying the Master in Oral and Aesthetic Rehabilitation, commented on a dream of creating a different dental clinic. The road to dening that vision was long, but they nally succeeded.Mora & Valdez Dentistry, located in Vita Plaza, is the result of a new dental clinic. The feeling of being in a place intimately connected with nature that your eyes can appreciate leaves you speechless, and this experience makes us different.The cozy and relaxed atmosphere equipped with technology that allows us to develop complex treatments that otherwise could not be performed guarantees us the peace of mind we share with our patients.The degree of specialization and continuous training of our colleagues and collaborators who assist us strengthens us as a benchmark dental center. These are all the reasons, in addition to the commitment and passion for what we feel, that allow us to transform smiles and share emotions; it lls us; it is our grain of sand for the world around us. Smiling is what gives us “Pura Vida”.The project`s purpose is that our patients have access to all dental specialties at the comfort of our clinic. Additionally, we offer radiography and 3D tomography, digital impressions, orofacial harmonization, and more. Likewise, we welcome Uvita Urgent Care doctors to Vita Plaza, who offer 24-hour medical emergency services, general medicine, medical specialties, X-rays, clinical laboratory, Covid tests, ground, and air ambulance.This article is a thank you and recognition to our patients and friends. They have been with us during all these years, many of them will remain in our memories. We want to share this new stage, inviting you to get to know our new facilities.

Page 32

Page 33

Page 34

Page 35

Page 36

WE CALL IT SLOTHLANDIA! AUTHOR: BETH SYLVERWhen we decided on this lovely, jungly piece of property to call our home, we had no idea what sur-prises awaited us. There are a few Cecropia trees growing on the hillside. These trees grow very quickly and attract many kinds of animals. It is not uncommon to see many birds resting in the bran-ches of these trees, including; toucans, caracaras, wild turkeys, and hawks. What we see hanging out, munching on leaves and fruit most often are sloths! I remember the rst time someone pointed one out to me. This sloth was camouaged entirely in the green foliage. I thought they were joking when they told me there were a few resident sloths, and they were regular visitors! How special!The ones we see in the big Cecropia tree are three-toed sloths. On rarer occasions, there have been two-toed sloths on a lower portion of the pro-perty. The two species look quite different in color and size and have very different faces. It’s incredible to have both types in one area.In our time living here, we’ve been blessed with se-veral different sloths, both males, and females. A couple of these adorable mammals visited so often we actually gave them names! We’ve had the plea-sure of seeing baby sloths as well. This year, there were two female sloths, both with beautiful new-born babies. I couldn’t believe my eyes until I gra-bbed some binoculars and took a closer look! From what I’ve witnessed, sloths move from one type of tree to another and change their diet depen-ding on what is growing. Surprisingly, there’s not a lot of scientic information about sloths. What we do know is they spend approximately 90% of their time upside down. They can see behind their backs because of an extra vertebra, and they can turn their heads 270 degrees. They are excellent swimmers and can hold their breath for up to 40 minutes un-derwater! Sloths only come down from the safety of the tree every 7-10 days to urinate and defecate. If you’d like to see a sloth and you don’t get the opportunity to see one in the wild, book a tour at the local Sanctuary and learn more about these fascina-ting creatures. UVITA & SURROUNDINGS36

Page 37

Page 38

Page 39

THE ORIGINS OF CREOLE FOOD AUTHOR: NATALIA SARAY ~ EL MERCADO´S FOUNDER & MANAGERThe typical food of Costa Rica is inuenced by abori-ginal, African and Spanish cuisine, whose diversity has contributed to the cultivation of fruits and a great variety of rich vegetables to facilitate its preparation.To mention just a few dishes such as the inevitable Tamal, which is pre-Hispanic heritage: this typical preparation is made up of corn dough stuffed with vegetables, meats, sauce, fruits, jams, and more, wrapped in a banana leaf, corn on the cob, avocado or maguey.Concerning traditional drinks, coffee originally from Africa, introduced to the country in 1808 or the agua dulce (sweet water), a beverage derived from the Tapa Dulce, a sugar cane product that the Spanish introduced, are the most popular. However, a refreshing drink made with Cas, being a fruit native to Costa Rica, has its place very assured in Costa Rican daily life.In Caribbean food, it is common to include coconut and hot chili in their recipes. The coconut trees that are the palm trees that give the coconut share two possible origins; one is Asia, and the other is northwestern South America. Mexico gave us the chili, which, in its multiple varieties, has been present in history from 6,900 to 5,000 years B.C. that is why it is the country in which its use is most rooted.The tacaco is not so well known; its fruit is used boiled to make minced meat, in soups, pickles, and as a dessert in honey. This climbing plant offers us an endemic food from Costa Rica that provides us with ber, vitamins, and minerals, so do not miss the opportunity to expe-rience including it in your meals. Its scientic name is Sechium tacaco, and it is of the cha-yote and the cucumber family. Let’s include the ower of Itabo, a superfood, source of ber that contains small amounts of certain minerals and vitamins, among which vitamin C, calcium, magnesium, and phosphorus stand out. This plant has been widely used to enhance proper-ties naturally. There are many varieties, and its origin is Mesoamerican; its scientic name is Yucca elephantipes, and it belongs to the Agavaceae family. This ower is cooked in two minutes; it can be stirred with egg, eaten in tacos, added to sauces, soups, or stews. The center of the ower can be a bit bitter, so it is recommended to use only the petals.In the forthcoming Ballena Tales issues, we will describe autochthonous dishes with easy-to-prepare recipes using accessible local ingredients.Come and buy what you need in the central or communal markets, farmer’s fairs, or craft fairs since they are the right places to get everything at a reaso-nable price, fresh and from the area. Also, it allows us to socialize with the neighbors. Of course, always obser-ving the mandatory security measures!GASTRONOMY - UVITA & SURROUNDINGS39

Page 40

Page 41

The alignment of good values and community support is shared and in alignment between the countries of Costa Rica and Canada. As such, it was no surprise to see such a successful turnout for the rst year of the Canadian-born charitable initiative 5 Days for Good in its inaugural year in Costa Rica. We have so many peo-ple and businesses to thank for this year’s successes including, but not limited to, Mosaic Wine Bar, Costa Ballena Disaster Relief, Pura Villas, Five Maes, Evie Dean Massage, and Ballena Tales Magazine. This ini-tiative may have started at Jet Propelled, Inc. but it has become an international success because of companies like these and the people who drive the support of our communities during 5 Days for Good and all year round.This year we saw the two countries rally together and inspire each other with acts of kindness, charitable do-nations, and more. Some of the notable efforts included beach and park cleanups, donations to support youth soccer and daycare centres, ice cream donations, co-louring contests, and even free massage treatments for those who could not afford to get the treatment they need. It is the seless acts like these that keep the light of this initiative shining brightly and is what encourages us to keep supporting this initiative that helps so many and inspires goodness worldwide.We could all use more good in our lives and it is the mission of 5 Days for Good to inspire, encou-rage, and facilitate tangible acts of kindness that support the people in our communities who need it the most. We rmly believe that all ships rise with the tide and it is our duty to use the time, ta-lent, and treasures we have to support everyone we can in whichever way we have to offer. In total, during the 3 years of running 5 Days for Good we have collectively seen over 450 days dedicated to helping those in need and we aren’t about to slow down any time soon. 5 Days for Good will resurfa-ce in April of 2022. Interested in learning more or joining in on the good? (Update)5 DAYS FOR GOOD - UPDATEAUTHOR: BRAD DEAN CO-FOUNDER | 5 DAYS FOR GOOD PURA VILLASArte - Muebles Servicios profesionales de construcción+506 8305-3270@my_design_costa_ricaPanadería - Pastelería -RestauranteGastronomia francesa+506 2201-8253@le_french_cafe_uvitaRopa y accesorios de mujeresDecoración francesa+506 8970-4392@la_fabrik_french_life_styleSalón de tatuajes y piercings+506 8346-1885@uvita_inkEquipo solar - Fontanería - Aire acondicionado+33 6 7137-9683@my_environment_costa_ricaPLAZA BAHÍA MOANA – Uvita, calle Bahía Ballena, hacia el Parque Nacional Marino Ballena

Page 42

Page 43

SUPERB COSTA RICAN COFFEE AUTHOR: DAGMAR REINHARD Costa Rican coffee is the best due to the plant varieties used, the unique areas in which the coffee is grown, and how the coffee is processed and harvested.Costa Rica and coffee are nearly synonyms. The best and highest quality arabica coffee in the world is produced here. For sure, you love its taste. And if you have never been to Costa Rica, you are in for a treat. In 1779, the rst coffee plants were introduced from Cuba, and already in the 1820s, Costa Rica was the rst Central American country to have a fully functional coffee industry. The mountain ranges, the equatorial climate, and most im-portantly, nutrient-rich soil is responsible for sweet coffee with crisp and vibrant acidity. Thanks to incentives by the government, the coffee industry ourished and prolifera-ted. Coffee Growing Regions of Costa Rica?The area of land where coffee is grown can have a consi-derable effect on its avor. The most important growing regions in Costa Rica are Tarrazu and the West Valley, followed by the Central Valley, Brunca, Guanacaste, Tres Ríos, Turrialba, and Orosi. It ideally grows in temperatures ranging from 18 to máximum 24°C. The altitude where most of Costa Rica´s coffee-growing regions are located is perfect for growing high-quality coffee. As belonging to the South Pacic, we will concentrate on the Brunca region.It is the third-largest producer of coffee in the country, trai-ling just behind the West Valley and making up 20% of national coffee production. Most coffees grown here are generally at altitudes of 800-1200 masl. There are farms in the area growing coffee much higher, closer to 1700 masl. Coffee from the lower and midland areas of Brunca often has a very soft avor prole, while coffee in the higher-lying areas, such as Pérez Zeledón at 1700m, has more complex notes in the cup.Harvesting Coffee During the dry season (from December up until April), the coffee is harvested. Before being transported to the pro-cessing facility for washing, sorting, fermenting, drying, and packing, the ripe coffee beans are picked by hand. Costa Rica has an excellent reputation for coffee. Farmers are educating themselves with innovative farming techni-ques, the most famous being a unique, hybrid honey pro-cessing method which, by the way, has nothing to see with honey. During the de-pulping process, the beans will be covered in a sticky, thick, ‘honey’ like substance called mu-cilage, later removed during the fermenting process. Natural Processed CoffeeThe ´dry´ processing method desiccates the cherry with the bean still inside below the hot tropical sun and with the right level of humidity. This naturally processed coffee can be an absolute treat. The avor complexity, sweetness, and standout acidity are a divine combination and difcult-ly found somewhere else.How to Brew your Coffee? You can brew the coffee the usual way. If you want to brew coffee like a ´tico´, the best way to do this is by using a Chorreador or “sock”. You should certainly try it! Preferably buy coffee from a local roaster, such as Café Don Emilio, present every Wednesday and Saturday at El Mercado in Uvita. They sell Arabica coffee, in the qualities Catuai, Caturra and Venecia. This way, you can make sure the coffee is freshly roasted, and it´s always a good idea to support locals. As you know, coffee contains caffeine, is full of benecial antioxidants. It has essential nutrients, including vitamin B5 (for making red blood cells), manganese (for bone development and metabolism), potassium (for lower blood pressure), mag-nesium (for energy production), and niacin, which helps convert vitamins into useable energy. Overall, its consump-tion is supposed to improve the risk for type 2 diabetes, depression, neurodegenerative diseases, cancer, and liver disease.GASTRONOMY - UVITA & SURROUNDINGS43

Page 44

Page 45

506 6029 1948PROTECTING YOUR HOME DURING THE RAINY SEASONAUTHOR: NICK HALVERSONAnyone who owns a home in the area should re-member that not so long before modern roads and developments and logging, this area was a vast and untouched tropical rainforest. What does it mean to own a property in a rainforest? Keep in mind that the region receives between 120 - 160 inches (that’s between 10 - 13 FEET of water!!). By contrast, Denver, Colorado, receives around 80 inches of snow in a typical winter season. How your property handles that much water is of-ten overlooked in the excitement of purchasing a property. My company, Osa Property Management, frequently gets involved after a property is bought, and we need to put together a plan to help protect a property from further damage caused by water. Also, the solution that worked in the past may no longer work due to shifting land, broken drainage, blocked drainage, or other factors. Land can shift due to earthquakes, changes in landscape design, or a deluge of water. Failure to address water mitigation issues may da-mage structures or landslides that have very costly solutions to repair. Here are some tips: · Gutters must be cleaned. Make sure your landscaper is doing that during every visit (minimum twice per month), especially during the rainy season.· Water mitigation starts with landscaping. Take care when changing the landscaping of a property - especia-lly if you want to change slopes/grades. Don’t plant trees too close to your home. If they are already planted, make sure the limbs are cut back to decrease the probability of debris falling onto the roof. · Install “alcantarillas” (concrete tubes typically used under roads and driveways) to help the water keep moving. · Study where your downspouts/rain chains end. Do they go onto the ground? Ideally, a concrete catch box will be connected to buried plastic pipes guiding the water into a more extensive water system. · Plant appropriate plants and trees in the proper loca-tions.· Keep all drainage clean of debris. Have your landscaper/property manager check them. Do not wait until the water mitigation is a problem. The solution can be much more expensive than it would have been having the issue been resolved earlier. When ero-sion issues become a problem, the cost to x and repair can run into the $10,000s. If done early enough, a plan can be built in stages, thereby spreading out the cost over a couple of years versus all at once. Please contact Osa Property Management if you have any questions about your current water mitigation design on your property. We can provide a no-obligation quote.REAL ESTATE - UVITA & SURROUNDINGS45

Page 46

Page 47

NACE UNA ESTRELLA Maya Valverde Turinelli, aka Maya Jolli, is 10 years old and from Uvita in Costa Ballena. After overcoming multiple stages in the Reality Show “Nace Una Estrella” on Channel 7, she reached the elimination phase with the song “To dance La Bamba, you need a little grace.” She impressed the judges with her skillful presentation, denitely showing that she has more than a bit of grace, a magnicent voice, and incredible talent. However, in early July, Maya was eliminated during the Gala # 9 show with 42 points.Participating in this competition has been an unprecedented challenge and a quantum leap for Maya. She learned new singing and acting techniques from different teachers, as well as greater ease on stage. One of these teachers was the Guanacaste singer-songwriter Flor Urbina who sang with the Philharmonic in the Bahia Communal Hall in 2016. Under the eyes of her mother Lara, who always accompanied her to auditions, she acquired an even stricter discipline. Maya says, “this is only a step towards what I want to achieve, and what I couldn’t accomplish in this event, I will gain in another.” Maya adds: “I am very grateful to all those who sent little gifts and lovely messages; they strengthened me a lot by presenting myself in front of the judges and the television audience. We had to move to San José, where we lived for almost three months leaving behind, not only my three dogs that I love very much.As the saying goes, “When one door closes, another opens”: Shortly after her last presentation on Channel 7, she had an interview on the Boca a Boca (word-of-mouth) program on the same channel. And in December, she and four other young contestants are invited by the San José Philharmonic Orchestra to sing Christmas carols.Good luck for your future, Maya! May these magnicent experiences open many more doors!AUTHOR: DAGMAR REINHARD PHOTOS: COURTESY OF CANAL 7ART - UVITA & SURROUNDINGS47

Page 48

Page 49

12 YEARS IN JUNGLE PARADISE AUTHOR: KELLY SYLVESTERSitting in a coffee shop with a friend 11 years ago, creating some fun dance class was the beginning of something that grew into more than I could have ever imagined. Jungle Arts and Dance has been a labor of love for me. I have poured my heart and soul into this company and these children and their families. Dear Costa Ballena, we have given you our hearts, and you have given us something much bigger in return. For close to 12 years, we have lived in your jungle and swam in your waters. We have tasted your fruits and been in awe of your beauty. We have walked your beaches and mountains and explored your rivers and water-falls. We have sat in silence listening to your monkeys, whales, birds, and bugs. We have fallen in love with your people and those like us that chose to call this place home.I have always said that the world is full of beautiful people and we can nd them wherever we go. “Beautiful people” is an understatement for my friends that have become family here in Costa Ballena. I found my soul sisters, and we raised our babies together in this magical place! The support and love that this community has given my family and me are like nothing I have ever experienced. My home is forever in the hearts of this com-munity and this community will forever be in mine. As me and my daughters, Ava and Kaya, prepare to move on to new adventures, I am so thankful for every last drop of goodness Costa Ballena is giving me. I’m taking in each moment and showing gratitude with every breath. I have much respect and gratitude for this communi-ty and all the families that entrusted me with their children. It has been my pleasure to watch them grow into amazing young men and women and talented performers. I will miss Costa Ballena and all the friends that have become my family. I cherish the time I had with every one of these children. They have been a source of light in my life for so many years. We had such a blast producing so many shows over the years. Working alongside my dear Sara Cattani, Sharon Boucher and more recently Rene Caudillo and Richard Ginzel has been such a beautiful learning experience. Rene and Richard plan to carry on JAD and will continue to bring live theater to our community, while I will be the Musical Theater Director at the Girls´ new Expeditionary Learning High School in Maine! A special thank you to Ava and Kaya, who have shared this JAD journey with me. They give me inspiration, support and ll me with hope for the future. Until next time my beautiful people! Pura Vida, Costa Ballena!ART - UVITA & SURROUNDINGS49

Page 50

Page 51

COCOS ISLAND: THE CORAL MUSEUMAUTHOR: LAURA VANOPDENBOSCHLast April 2021, two members of the Innoceana team had the opportunity to go for one month on Cocos Is-land as researchers to start a 3D project modeling the coral reef. Cocos Island is Costa Rica’s largest marine protected area, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and a Mission Blue Hope Spot. It is home to more than 1,600 marine species, has one of the highest concentrations of sharks globally, and one of the most diverse reefs in the country. For all those reasons, it is one of the most pristine sites for scuba diving worldwide. Innoceana was invited to stay for one month on the island with the rangers to start their project called The Crystal Floor. It aims to study the health of the coral reefs, raise awareness of the importance of corals, and implement effective conservation strategies. It has been an incredible privilege for us, as the terrestrial part of the island and many underwater sites are only accessible to rangers, volunteers and researchers. In one month on the island and 32 dives, we encoun-tered thousands of hammerhead sharks, Galapagos sharks, Silkies sharks, Black and Whitetip sharks, one Tiger shark, one turtle rescued from shing lines, hun-dreds of sh species, many sexy shrimps, and much more. One month on Cocos Island was also 26 hours of un-derwater mapping, 3200 m2 of underwater 3D maps created, and more than 100,000 underwater pictures. Indeed, to create 3D underwater maps, Innoceana uses a photogrammetry technique: assembling many images taken from various angles to recreate a virtual 3D model of the reef.With those underwater maps, Innoceana can evaluate the reef’s health and provides a visual baseline of the reef and use it for comparison over the years and for education. The technical committee has successfully approved the protocol created by Innoceana of the National Park of Cocos Island and will be added to the governmental monitoring protocol. Every six months, Innoceana will return to the rangers on this paradisiac island to add the visual 3D maps to the classic un-derwater monitoring system. An aerial drone has also been used to create aerial 2D maps of the island and estimate total coral coverage, which will be extremely useful for comparing with future aerial studies and proving the increase or de-crease of the coral reef. Coral reefs are unfortunately signicantly threatened all around the world and could completely disappear by 2050. Innoceana believes that education on their importan-ce is essential: with visual tools like the 3D models of corals, we can educate on the crucial role of corals for coast protection, survival of marine invertebrates and most sh, economic value and source of food, etc. If you want to learn more about our trip on Cocos Island, follow our series of 17 video diaries on our Youtube channel: One new diary every Sunday! You can also watch our latest online webinar for more information on The Crystal Floor project or 3D mo-dels, or the coral reef in Cocos Island. MARINE LIFE - UVITA & SURROUNDINGS51

Page 52

ADVERTISE WITH USADVERTISE WITH USSeptember 15th, 2021Deadline: August 2nd 2021

Page 53

WHY DOESN’T ANYONE WANT TO ADOPT ME?AUTHOR: SUSAN STRONGMy name is Fabiola, and I’ll start my story the day some-body rescued me in November 2019. I felt so bad. I wasn’t even hungry anymore, even though you could see every rib in my little body. I was so tired of being hungry and the skin itching that I had given up. A nice lady came and picked me up and put me in a small crate. I was scared, and I could tell she was kind, but I was afraid of getting my hopes up for someone to love me nally. She took me to the veterinary, and there they did blood tests that showed I had Ehrlichia Canis, a tick-borne disease, and I had both a fungal and bacterial skin infec-tion. They said that is why I had no hair!After my rst bath, my skin hurt so much. I could tell they were trying to be gentle with me. I hated the tiny cage they kept me in, but I felt so bad I didn’t care. After a cou-ple of weeks, my life changed! I started feeling a little be-tter, and a lady named Susan took me to her house. I was so happy to live with her and her dogs. I started feeling so much better! My skin was still itchy, so they changed me to a special diet because I am allergic to chicken!People tell me that I have the cutest underbite. My skin was so bad for so long, and they say that it may never grow back the way it was when I was a puppy. I don’t care, though I do get cold sometimes! For some reason no one wants to adopt me, so I am thank-ful that Susan lets me live with her. I hope I can stay with her furever, but she says that I am her foster dog awaiting the perfect home. If you want to adopt Fabi, then please contact DAWG via their FaceBook page or website.DAWG Needs Your Help!!!If you agree that rescuing and spay and neuter clinics are as important as we do, DAWG needs your donations! You can donate by credit card or PayPal, and since DAWG also has non-prot status as a 501(c)3 in the U.S., your dona-tions through this account are tax-deductible. Here is the link to our page detailing how you can help and donate. Thank you!!!Footnote: Asociación D.A.W.G. Grupo Bienestar de Los Animales Domésticos Costa Rica, doing business as DAWG, Domestic Animal Welfare Group, is a non-prot organization focused on animal advocacy in the Costa Ballena region of Costa Rica for over 12 years.This is me today with my best friend Paco. I love Paco. ANIMAL HEALTH - UVITA & SURROUNDINGS53

Page 54

Chronic conditonsHypertensionDiabetesEKGSkin check BloodworkPAP smearMinor SurgerySpider Vein SclerotherapyBotulinum toxin Dermal ﬁllersFat graftingPlasmage non-surgical eyelid rejuvenationMicro needling – DermapenPRP – Platelet rich plasmaChemical peels Fractional dermabrasion Providing you with the Quality Healthcare you are looking for+506 8833 6431 General PracticeMedical ae stheticsPl a z a V e n ta n a s – Oj O c h a l d e O s adralfaro@bahiaballenadoctors.comFeng ShuiWe make your living and working space extraordinary by incorporating natural elements. Harmony, health, happiness, and success!We enhance positive areas in your home or property and detect and improve negative ones.Nicole Joss is a Swiss Feng Shui expert living in Ojochal. English – Español – DeutschFire – Earth – Metal Water – Wood8641 3259 smileanddance@bluewin.ch

Page 55

LOOK GOOD AND FEEL GOODFeeling good and looking good are both very important. Helping people #LookGood and #FeelGood is a very satisfactory line of work. Many people seek consultation because of different signs of aging like wrinkles, deep creases, sun spots, skin laxity or sagging skin, even skin lesions. All of these conditions have different types of treatment options. Minimizing wrinkles on the forehead, frown lines and “crow’s feet” with Botox, volumizing the lips with hyaluronic acid dermal llers that give immediate results, always please the patient and doctor as well. Another excellent treatment is the use of your own body fat as ller for the nasolabial folds or even the rejuvenation of the back of the hands.Bahia Ballena DoctorsDra.Mónica AlfaroMinimal side effects and excellent corrective effects make seeing these changes in the patient and how they enjoy them very gratifying. Even though these treatments are minimally invasive, it is very important to look for a trained doctor with knowledge and plenty of experience, who also has the appropriate personal characteristics to focus on patient needs and desires. Being able to listen to the patient and understand their wishes, fears and expectations is vital. Offering the patient a treatment plan, tailored to their individual needs, ensures the success of his or her total rejuvenation process, providing a more natural and progressive result making the patient #LookGood and #FeelGood. INITIATIVE - UVITA & SURROUNDINGS55Some people consult to look better, more competitive in the work eld, or simply to improve their personal appearance and look younger. It doesn’t matter the reason, treatment should always be focused on the condition that is more important for the patient since it will make them feel better about their appearance.The treatments, minimally invasive, like Botox, dermal llers, platelet rich plasma, radio frequency, fractional dermabrasion, micro needling – Dermapen, among many others, provide short term results.

Page 56

RESTAURANTSPhilippe and Mireille, owners of Pancito Cafe, are well known in Ojochal. Early in the morning, delicious aromas emanate from the place, the smell of fresh bread, crois-sants, and freshly brewed coffee. They serve breakfast and lunch on the large terrace overlooking the garden, covered with lush vegetation and the river just passing by. The clients arrive, some from Ojochal, others from the surrounding towns - many of them good friends who share their news and enjoy delicious food. Pancito Cafe is famous and has become a popular meeting place. There, French, Spanish, and English are spoken.They both opened their bakery in Montpellier (south of France) that they had for 20 years until they felt the urge to travel and live new adventures. Costa Rica was the project. After several trips to this tropical country, they fell in love with Ojochal, where, in 2010, they opened the Pancito Café. Here Philippe bakes homemade bread and prepares delicious French pastries. Mireille’s specialty is the confection of chocolate.At lunchtime, neighbors and travelers come to satisfy their appetite with tarts, sandwiches, crepes, burritos, crispy salads, pastas and other tasty French meals.Pancito Café terrace lounge has WIFI where you will indeed feel very relaxed thanks to the good atmosphere, the friendly attention and above all, the exquisite food. Welcome to Mireille and Philippe´s Pancito Café!The fame is well earned. Philippe learned the baker trade in the ‘70s with his father, who had a family bu-siness in Lorraine in the East of France. He studied at a trade school and later gave administration classes. In 1985 he went to the United States, where he resumed his profession as a pastry chef and worked in kitchens in New York and Boston. When he returned to France, he married Mireille. PANCITO CAFEAUTHOR: DAGMAR REINHARDGASTRONOMY - OJOCHAL & SURROUNDINGS56

Page 57

Page 58

COSTARRICAN BANKNOTES ARE BEAUTIFUL AUTHOR: J.S. PARRISH The 20,000 colones orange Costa Rican banknote was the rst paper money to be remade in 2021 with a plastic substrate to make it last longer and be recyclable! It features Maria Isabel Carvajal Quesada, a writer who used the pseudonym of Carmen Lyra. She created the rst Montessori school in Costa Rica, co-founded the Communist Party, and organized one of the country’s rst female workers´ unions. She won many awards. The outline of a rabbit petting a wolf on this banknote is taken from Lyra’s written work entitled “Cuentos De Mi Tía Panchita” (Tales of my Aunt Panchita).The nature theme of this particular note shows examples of the páramo ecosystem. These páramos, according to scientists, may be “evolutionary hotspots” and one of the fastest evolving regions on Earth. These are found in the northern Andes of South America and southern Central America. The very small volcano hummingbird (Selasphorus ammula) is shown, native to the Talamanca Montana forests of Costa Rica and western Panama. This species takes its food from small owers and also small insects as a source of protein. In lower elevations, a similar species can be found called the scintillant hummingbird.One of the plants shown is the Senecio, which stems from a genus of owering plants in the daisy family, including ragworts and groundsels. Some species produce natural biocides (especially alkaloids) to deter or even kill animals that would eat them. Senecio species are used as food plants by the larvae of some Lepidoptera species.Also shown is ‘Coffea’ a genus of owering plants. Coffea species are shrubs or small trees native to tropical and southern Africa and tropical Asia. The seeds of some species, called coffee beans, are used to avor various beverages and products. The fruits, like the seeds, contain a large amount of caffeine, have a distinctly sweet taste and are often juiced. The plant is one of the world’s most valuable and widely traded commodity crops. It is an important export product of several countries, including those in Central and South America, the Caribbean, and Africa.I hope you have enjoyed the series of articles about the beautiful Costa Rican banknotes! Indeed, these banknotes reect the astonishing culture and surroundings of this amazing country.ECONOMY - OJOCHAL & SURROUNDINGS58

Page 59

Page 60

Page 61

AUTHOR: CAPTAIN WILLY ATENCIO FOR MORE INFORMATIONCLICK HERESPORTS - OJOCHAL & SURROUNDINGS61THE WAHOO ARE BITING!Hello from beautiful Drake Bay, Costa Rica. Presently, it is one of my favorite times of the year as the tempera-tures begin to cool off and the shing heats up. We will generally get some rain in the afternoon or night, and these changing conditions are good for shing. At the time of this writing, our clients are catching a lot of Wahoo. Wahoo is considered a delicacy with its aky white texture and incredible mild avor. In Hawaii, they call it “Ono,” and it’s served sashimi style at high-end restaurants. Wahoo is sometimes confused with Barra-cuda, as their appearance can be similar. Wahoo is one of the fastest sh in the ocean and grows at a very fast rate. You will know when a Wahoo hits your lure as they strike with velocity. Once hooked, the angler has to keep reeling, as wahoos will often swim toward the boat. My mates and I usually yell “reel, reel, reel” until they are safely in the net.Another prized sh that’s also delicious to eat and abun-dant this time of year is the Snook or Robalo. The sh are so close that we often catch them right off the beach and inside the river mouths. Generally, the best method is using fresh live bait, which my mates and I catch and keep it in our live well. Once hooked, Snooks are great ghters, and their white, akey meat is delicious no matter how you prepare it. I have many clients who want to go offshore and chase big Tuna, Sailsh, Marlin, and Mahi, but they always tell me, “save a little time to Snook sh.”We take shermen of all ages and experience levels. My mates and I will be happy to help make our client’s expe-rience memorable. We have two boats to choose from; The Reel Escape is a 35 ft. CABO Sportshing Yacht and the Reel Time is a 26 ft. walk-around center con-sole. We offer half-day or full-day trips on both boats.We have a variety of accommodations here, from basic to luxury. We also now have a beautiful beach house for rent. Villa de Osa is on a small hill directly on the beach with panoramic views of the bay and cooling ocean breezes. The house is very private, yet it’s only steps away from the town where you will nd some great res-taurants and markets.

Page 62

RE/MAX We Sell Paradise "Office of the Year" awarded to RE/MAX We Sell Paradise - winning over 57 RE/MAX offices throughout the Caribbean and Central America. Mini-Resort on Food Forest Farm with River and 3 waterfalls! Lot Size: 57 acres | Views: Mountain & Panoramic. MLS #: 9100-1FA • A place where you never need heating or air conditioning. • Located in a special remote high-altitude rainforest. • The 57-acre property features a working organic permaculture farm. • This farm is one of the most environmentally friendly farms in Costa Rica. • This rainforest is mesmerizing in its pristine, untouched natural beauty. Heather Man SALES AGENT Mobile: +506 8723 2323 Email: heather@we-sell-paradise.com www.we-sell-paradise.com RE/MAX We Sell Paradise "Office of the Year" awarded to RE/MAX We Sell Paradise - winning over 57 RE/MAX offices throughout the Caribbean and Central America. Mini-Resort on Food Forest Farm with River and 3 waterfalls! Lot Size: 57 acres | Views: Mountain & Panoramic. MLS #: 9100-1FA • A place where you never need heating or air conditioning. • Located in a special remote high-altitude rainforest. • The 57-acre property features a working organic permaculture farm. • This farm is one of the most environmentally friendly farms in Costa Rica. • This rainforest is mesmerizing in its pristine, untouched natural beauty. Heather Man SALES AGENT Mobile: +506 8723 2323 Email: heather@we-sell-paradise.com www.we-sell-paradise.com Mini-Resort on Food Forest Farm with River and 3 waterfalls!Lot Size: 57 acres Views: Mountain & Panoramic.MLS #: 9100 - 1FA• A place where you never need heating or air conditioning.• Located in a special remote high - altitud rainforest.• The 57 acre property features a working organic permaculture farm.• This farm is one of the most environmentally friendly farms in Costa Rica.• This rainforest is mesmerizing in its pristine, untouched natural beauty.PRICE: $1,300,000 USDPRICE: $1,300,000 USD

Page 63

Have you ever wondered what is behind the properties you nd displayed on a Real Estate website?In the specic case of our ofce, RE/MAX We Sell Paradise, it is an adventure that goes beyond working behind a desk and verifying data and information on a property. There is time, effort, coordination, negotiation, and resources used to obtain those photos and videos that make the rst visual impression on the viewer.Before embarking on any trip, we carefully review the agenda to check availability and make an adequate distribution of time and prepare the itinerary to follow.Once the details, date, and time have been dened, the journey to the unknown begins, and I say unknown since, in the South Pacic of Costa Rica, you never know what you can nd, hence the wonder of this region.Along the way, a stop to buy coffee and snacks and use the bathroom is mandatory. At other times, stops for the bathroom must be in the middle of nature due to the distances.Once at the destination, the journey will begin that will possibly take the whole day between talks and walks, sometimes between paths and trails in the mountains. We have to be careful to avoid slips, falls, scrapes, mosquitoes and prevent rain, sun, or winds. It is advisable never to forget your boots, hat, cape, water, sunscreen, repellent, machete, and camera to capture the property’s most relevant details and take notes. Sometimes we have been fortunate to take horseback tours, usually provided by the property owners, making the experience more magical. All the details and experiences we try to capture will, later on, accompany the photographs and videos.Thanks to our work paving the way for our clients, that buyers will nd the place they are looking for. We have had the good fortune to see places of great scenic beauty that are not popularly spoken of, and can still be considered “secrets.” We have met incredible people and lived in Costa Rica in nature, strengthening the team relationship, becoming more than colleagues, family, and our clients’ friends. Real Estate is a business world, yes, but it is also a world of adventure, especially here in Costa Rica.BEYOND TECHNICAL STUDIES: A DAY IN REAL ESTATE IS AN ADVENTURE TRIPAUTHOR: DINIA OTÁROLA CÉSPEDESMini-Resort on Food Forest Farm with River and 3 waterfalls!REAL STATES - OJOCHAL & SURROUNDINGS63

South Pacific Costa Rica Magazine

Page 1

Page 2