SUPER SONY
I LOVE THIS PLACE!!!
Super Sony is this FABULOUS store FILLED with pre-made Asian products, spices, Kimchi, frozen Dim Sum (that's where I'm going next time I get a craving for Dim Sum which can be VERY expensive!!)+++!!! They have things from Thailand, China, Japan (the most expensive products so look to see if they have what you're seeking in a non-Japanese brand/label to save some $$), Taiwan, India & Middle Eastern goodies/spices+++ and the BIGGEST choice of VEGETARIAN products I’ve EVER SEEN than Super Sony in San Jose!!! WOW!!!! (I hear they provide MANY of the oriental products used at AutoMercado & other stores [which to me translates to those same products probably being cheaper at Super Sony!!]). They even have the Chinese cake I MISS/LOVED from my days in San Francisco!! To me, sort of a cross between a sponge & pound cake!! VERY LIGHT but tasty!!
VEGETARIAN - This is a mecca for Tofu & other delights. Baked tofu, Korean style veggie tamales, tofu dogs, tofu chicken, tofu shrimp & crab, bistek, fresh kimchee (HOT), & other "strange things" that will entertain your pallet. Bring a cooler if you plan to by frozen stuff (they have LOTS of options) but its OUTSIDE in the front deep freezer (per mrlee).
Super Sony is run by a SOOOOO SWEET Taiwanese family (the Chang's - mom is Elena & just a doll)!!! The adult kids speak GREAT English (make sure to get Carolina or Yolanda to help you & give them a BIG HUG from Vicki!!!)!!!
HOURS: Mon.-Fri. 9am-6pm, Sat. 9am-5pm, Sun. 9am-4pm
DIRECTIONS: Downtown/Centro San Jose – Calle 3, between Avenida 8 and 10 (3 1/2 blocks Sud/South of Plaza de la Cultura/National Theatre)
(2-221-1263 / http://SuperSony.com / sschangl@racsa.co.cr ).
Saturday, October 3, 2009
Friday, August 7, 2009
TAXI DRIVERS AROUND COSTA RICA - VICKI's LIST OF ENGLISH SPEAKING LEGAL RED TAXIS
VICKI's LIST OF ENGLISH SPEAKING LEGAL RED TAXI DRIVERS
This list is CURRENTLY predominately for the Escazu area (but we're starting a list for other areas around Costa Rica so if you have someone to add, info on what to do is below). Their level of English is of varying levels so do yourself a favor & speak SLOWLY (challenging for me to do as I get SOOOO EXCITED!!). Some don't speak English but they are often available & or just GOOD/trustworthy people!I ONLY use LEGAL RED TAXI's & Tourism Vans as they are the ONLY ones that are insured to carry paying passengers plus, if the cops pull them over (& they DO), you're stuck in the middle of no where as the driver can NOT go on!!!
ALWAYS MAKE SURE THE DRIVER TURNS THE MARIA•METER ON (it starts at 430-colones though it reads 430.0 which can be VERY misleading!!!)
HOURS: The hours indicated are the TYPICAL hours they work BUT almost ALL can be flexible by advanced appointment. They can drive you wherever you want to go but you may want to hire ones that have experience/knowledge of an area.
ESCAZU
DISPATCHES:TAXI'S ESCAZU 2-289-0826 / 2-289-0026 - HOURS: 6am-10pm. (if I'm just going around Escazu area, I call them & usually Dispatch [below]. They're located in Centro Escazu by the church)
VICKI'S TOP GUYS
(most are from Taxi's Escazu Centro. They know me from Casa Naranja or Casa de Vicki)
CARLOS - 8-811-6436 / MJimenezSolano@gmail.com - GOOD ENGLISH, GREAT PERSON/PERSONALITY. He's also a Forest Ranger so a GREAT Tour Guide!!! Tends to work earlier in the day but can be available later with advanced notice. Has access to a Legal Tourism Van. HOURS: Daily 5:30am-5pm(most are from Taxi's Escazu Centro. They know me from Casa Naranja or Casa de Vicki)
ALVARO Mesen - 8-899-0375 / AMesen073@yahoo.com - GREAT ENGLISH, Great personality! (Carlos' cousin) - HOURS: Daily 7am-6pm
FRANK CHICAS - 8-871-2900 / EnjoyingCostaRicaTours@gmail.
OSCAR Farras - 8-342-6169 (GOOD ENGLISH, GREAT PERSON/VERY PERSONABLE PLUS he's also an EXCELLENT LEGAL LICENSED Tour Guide!!! He has access to a legal tourism van for larger groups) - HOURS: Daily 6am-8pm (MultiPlaza)
JASON Valverde - 8-312-4492 / JeyVcr27@yahoo.com - GOOD ENGLISH & GREAT PERSON!!! HOURS: Mon.-Sat. 6am-4pm (MultiPlaza)
MARIO - 8-389-1571 / 8-849-8526 (he doesn't speak much English BUT he DOES understands a LOT, BUT he's the MOST reliable in that if he is running late/not available, he'll call someone else for you [though often not English speaking]. He's often available at NIGHT - especially with an appointment)
ALONSO - 8-880-3019 / AlonsoC5Star@yahoo.com - GOOD ENGLISH. Young FUN GUY & LOTS of knowledge on the Night Scene!! His hours really vary but especially typically afternoons & NIGHT [he's my main NIGHT GUY!!)
Johnny - 8-380-1247 - Good English - HOURS: 8am-8pm
Michael - 8-316-2111 - GOOD ENGLISH - HOURS: Daily 6am-10pm
Henry Cordoba - 8-307-2692 - Understands a fair amount of English & speaks some (lots of swear words), funny. VW VAN - HOURS: Daily 8am-7pm
Jorge Badilla - 8-373-6808 - Decent English (lived in New Orleans). HOURS: Daily 7am-7pm
Jorge - 8-996-8768 - HOURS: Tues.-Sun. 7am-7pm
Jeffrey - 8-827-2008 - Good English - HOURS: Sat. 7am-10pm
Rolando Mena - 8-893-6228 / RoloMena77@gmail.com - Speaks a fair amount of English (I think he understand a lot more than he lets on But he's learning English now), sweet person. HOURS: Daily 6am-6pm
Oliver - 8-375-6624 - Pretty good English - HOURS: Mon.-Sat. 5am-1pm
Max Mora - 8-390-2050 - GOOD English - HOURS: Mon.-Sat. 6am-10pm (often hard to get but GOOD English)
Joaquin Herrera - 8-828-5398 - GOOD English - 4x4 - HOURS: Sun.-Fri. 7am-7pm (NO Sat.)
"Sigi" Sigifredo - 8-372-7428 - Pretty decent English - HOURS: 8am-6pm
MORE LIMITED ENGLISH OR NONE - BUT AVAILABLE & OR NICE
Martin (pronounced Marteen) - 8-387-7825 - No English but he's often available Daily LOTS of hours!!!Eladio Alberto - 8-816-6000 - Understands a fair amount I think & speaks some English - HOURS: Daily
Jesus - 8-391-9460 - Some English - HOURS: Daily 6am-9pm
William Hernandez - 8-868-3071 - Understands a fair amount but doesn't speak a lot of English, GOOD person! - HOURS: NIGHT 4-11pm+-ish
Edgard - 8-384-4637
Oscar - 8-341-7935
MULTIPLAZA / INTERCONTINENTAL
DISPATCH: Cinco Estrellas/5-Star - 2-228-3159 (they’re located in the Intercontinental Hotel by MultiPlaza [I don’t call for nearby jobs]) – 24/7 BUT - I think the only person that speaks some English is Yvonne Perez who works in the day). Make sure they TURN ON THE MARIA/meter or they all give you a set tourist rate.FRANK CHICAS - 8-871-2900 / EnjoyingCostaRicaTours@gmail.
Jason Valverde - 8-312-4492 - GOOD ENGLISH & GREAT PERSON!!! HOURS: Mon.-Sat. 6am-4pm (MultiPlaza)
Carlos Ramirez - 8-375-5671 - pretty good English, young, GREAT Energy - HOURS: NIGHT - Daily 4pm-5am (InterContinental-Frank Chicas)
Juan Carlos Garcia - 8-827-9036 - He speaks a fair amount of English and is really NICE - HOURS: 6a-8pm (MultiPlaza)
Wagner - 8-865-8695 - GOOD English, positive/happy - HOURS: Daily 6am-4pm (InterContinental)
Frank Calderon - 8-879-0239 - Pretty Good English, quiet-ish. Daily 5:30am-4pm (InterContinental-Frank Chicas)
Rafael "Rafa" - 8-876-5510 - pretty good English, slower/older, nice - HOURS: Daily 5:30am-4pm (InterContinental-Frank Chicas)
Francisco Ruiz - 8-371-0944 - Good English - HOURS: noon-MIDNIGHT (InterContinental)
William - 8-868-3071 - Understands a fair amount of English but doesn’t speak it - HOURS: NIGHT - Mon.-Sat. 4-11PM+-ish (MultiPlaza)
Manuel Suarez - 8-855-4127 - HOURS: Daily 4pm-6am (MultiPlaza)
Fabio - 8-829-0176 - HOURS: Mon.-Sat. 3pm-3am (MultiPlaza)
Heiner - 8-394-4379 - A bit of English - HOURS: Daily 6am-11pm
Javier Perez - 8-393-4290 - Some English - HOURS: Mon.-Sat. 6am-9pm & every other Sun.
Hidalgo (or Lisi) - 8-368-5430 - Ok English - HOURS: Mon.-Sat. 6am-6pm
Walter Herrera - 8-837-1251 - English - HOURS: 6am-2pm
OUTSIDE OF ESCAZU:
James Francis Brown - 8-375-5558 / JaimeFB@costaricense.cr - GREAT English and a NICE person - HOURS: Mon.-Sat. 8am-5pm, Sun. 1-10pm. (San Jose-Downtown - especially at the CARIBBEAN BUS TERMINAL)Jose - 8-823-7312 - GREAT English (used to live in NJ) - HOURS: NIGHT Tues.-Sun. 3pm-2am (San Jose-Downtown)
Wilber Pacheco - 8-8-381-0326 - Good English - HOURS: Daily 7am-6pm (San Jose)
Elias - 8-849-9272 - Good English - HOURS: Daily 7am-9pm-ish (San Jose-Downtown)
Manuel Acuna - 8-388-1475 - Good English - HOURS: Mon.-Fri. 5am-8pm
Marco Jimenez - 8-385-6002 - He speaks English and a little French - HOURS: NIGHT Daily MID-noon (varies) (San Jose)
Alvaro - 8-310-3131 - English - HOURS: NIGHT Daily 3pm-4AM (Tibas)
Erick Campos - 8-377-4704 - English - HOURS: Mon.-Sat. 7am-8pm (Alajuela)
Jorge Segra - 8-386-3400 - Good English - HOURS: NIGHT Daily 11am-MIDNIGHT (Carriari Mall area)
Manrique - 8-834-1331 - Good English (Carriari Mall area)
Wilder Arte - 8-305-7869 - NO English but LATE NIGHT - HOURS: Fri.-Wed. (NO Thurs.) NIGHT 3pm-2am (San Jose)
GRECIA - Dennis Salazar - 8-859-6025 - REALLY GOOD English (he lived in NJ). Airport to Grecia $25-$30+.
LEGAL TOURISM VANS
(they tend to be available 24/7 by appointment)
(they tend to be available 24/7 by appointment)
FRANK CHICAS - 8-871-2900 / EnjoyingCostaRicaTours@gmail.
Abel - 8-369-6557 - REALLY GOOD ENGLISH. He's also an Official Tour Guide (InterContinental-Frank Chicas)
Oscar - Decent English, personable. 8-860-8594 (InterContinental-Frank Chicas)
Abner Arias - 8-889-7555 GOOD English (lived in U.S.) (InterContinental-Frank Chicas)
DO YOU HAVE A LEGAL DRIVER TO ADD?
We're constantly enhancing/add to this list (we'd like names for English-speaking drivers THROUGHOUT Costa Rica!!) so if you have a LEGAL RED taxi driver or LEGAL Tourism Van (ONLY - PERIOD!!!) to add, please email us at: CostaRicaResourceGuide@gmail.Please provide the following info in this order:
Name:
Phone Number/Email Address/Website:
Level of English/any comments:
Days/Hours:
Location:
AIRPORT GREETS•RETURNS to/from the Escazu (San Rafael) area
Greet - $25. Returns - $20 (plus tip)
Greet - $25. Returns - $20 (plus tip)
FYI - Hiring a Red Taxi to pick you up at the airport or return you is more expensive than Airport Taxi's because they spend time waiting for you (time is $$) as well as Greet you with a sign with YOUR name on it, plus they have to pay for parking which ain't cheap at SJO. They also legally can NOT pick up anyone that's not their customer at the airport [they deadhead] so they loose money there.
Airport Taxi's are cheaper [around $18 I believe] but my experience is FEW speak English let alone know a lot about areas.
Airport Taxi's are cheaper [around $18 I believe] but my experience is FEW speak English let alone know a lot about areas.
PLEASE TELL EVERYONE “Vicki” in Casa Naranja or Casa de Vicki in Escazu referred ya!!!
# # #
AIRLINE & AIRPORT INFORMATION - COSTA RICA
(this week we're updating this info but this gives you something for now)
There's FREE WiFi/WIRELESS Internet throughout the SJO Airport!!
AIRPORT NUMBERS:
SAN JOSE - SJO (Juan SantaMaria): 2-437-2626 (I also have 2-441-0744??) - http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Juan_Santamar%C3%ADa_International_Airport
PAVAS (Tobias Bolanos): 2-232-2472
LIBERIA - Guanacaste (Daniel Oduber [I've also seen it called Tomas Guardia??]): 668-1010 (I've also seen 666-0695) http://liberiacostaricainfo.com/Airport-Liberia.htm / http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Daniel_Oduber_International_Airport
LIMON: 2-758-1379
ARRIVAL & DEPARTURE INFO (like the screens at the airport - cool!!):
http://alterra.co.cr/FIWS/index.aspx
INTERNATIONALLY: http://FlightStats.com
http://costa-rica-information.org/arrivals.html
AUTOMATED FLIGHT INFO:
2-437-2626 - English-9 Arrival-1 Departures-2 (I find it hasn’t worked properly 90% of the time for me)
GENERAL AIRPORT INFO:
Client Services: 2-443-1737 / 2-443-1244-fax (5am-10pm) (they speak GOOD English & are REALLY helpful with ANY questions you have!! They can NOT page anyone)
AIRPORT TAXI:
http://TaxiAeropuerto.com/ing_index.shtml / Reservations - 2-222-6865 / Office - 2-441-1319 / 2-443-7544
Louis Fernando is a driver with them that speaks a fair amount of English (8-840-1907 / 2-443-6332-Alejuela / Luis10@CostaRRicense@CR)
Airport taxis (the official ones) - $22 one way – 1-4 (though not much luggage as the trunks tend to be smaller so I’ve found they’re really only comfy if it’s 1-2 people if you have 2 pieces of checked luggage per person), $26-van – 1-10 people. I’ve noticed they RARELY speak English & RARELY know the area very well since is USUALLY VERY complicated so if you choose to take them when coming to The Fountains just to save a few penny’s, we will NOT interact – you’ll get to figure out how to get them here (I’m TIGHT on this after a recent PAIN that wasted 48 of my minutes running back & forth between my house & the road 3 times!!).
PARKING
AIRPORT:
$16/8,850-c/day / $2.50/1,350 colones/hour (2-440-6700-sheltered garage with guard / 2-437-2400-office)
LONGER TERM:
Park & Fly http://CostaRicaParkAndFly.com / 2-441-1401 / 2-440-3134 / info@CostaRicaParkAndFly.com
Open 24/7, FREE transportation to the airport. DIRECTIONS: Del Aeropuerto Juan Santa María 500 mts al norte hacia Alajela por la radial Francisco Orlich
INTERNATIONAL AIRLINES:
Not poz these days. I think everything goes through somewhere - TACA (varies but it's free drinks, I believe you actually get fed & it may be a faster option), America West (through Phoenix), American (go through DFW - NOT Miami!!!), Continental (Houston), Delta (through Atlanta), Jet Blue (through Orlando), Spirit Air (through Ft. Lauderdale), USAir (through Pittsburgh).
AeroRepublica (coming soon - Bogota, Medellin, Panama City-SJO)
Air Canada - 2-441-8025-English-9 8am-1pm Mon.-Sat. / 2-243-1860 / 0800-052-1988 / http://AirCanada.ca
Air China (coming)
Air Comet - 2-291-0684 (8am-noon) / http://AirComet.com (only Sat. Madrid-SJO)
Air France (KLM) - 2-220-4111 (only ticket office - no flights to CR) / http://AirFrance.com/cr
Air Panama - 2-222-0712 / 2-222-0753-fax / 8-392-4256 / 2-601-1007 / 2-296-8592? / 507-316-9000 / 507-315-0439 (I'm giving you their Panama #s as I have yet to get through to their ticket office) / http://FlyAirPanama.com -
TICKET OFFICE: San Jose - on Paseo Colon at Calle 34, Edificio Elizabeth
Air Transat - 2-441-9444 / http://AirTransat.com (Montreal, Toronto-SJO seasonal)
America West - 2-430-6690 / 0800-0110888 / http://AmericaWest.com
American - 2-442-8800 / 2-257-1266 / 248-9010 / 1-800-433-7300-U.S. / http://AA.com (Dallas, Ft. Lauderdale, Los Angeles [seasonal], Miami)
TICKET OFFICES:
San Jose - Sabana Este - DIRECTIONS: Centro Cars Building - next to Mas x Meno & across the street of the Hotel Corobici - just at the entrance of the hwy to Alajuela. HOURS: Mon.-Fri. 8:30am-7pm, Sat. 9am-1pm. ADVANCE CHECK IN: Mon.-Fri. 9am-5pm
Escazu (Guachipelin) - Plaza Roble - in front of MultiPlaza - 1st Floor - Blvd. Camino Real. HOURS: Mon.-Fri. 9am-6pm, Sat. 9am-1pm. ADVANCE CHECK IN: Mon.-Fri. 9am-5pm
San Pedro / Curridabat - DIRECTIONS: Edificio Torre del Este - Frente Facultad de Derecho - De La Universidad De Costa Rica. HOURS: Mon.-Fri. 9am-6pm, Sat. 9am-1pm. ADVANCE CHECK IN: Mon.-Fri. 9am-4pm
Avianca - (Bogota, Columbia-SFO 4 times week)
China Eastern (coming)
Continental - 2-440-0580 / 2-442-1904 / 2-286-4911 / 0800-044-0005 / http://Continental.com (ask for Christian)
Condor - 2-430-4787 / 2-441-9444 / 2-243-1818 / http://Condor.com
Copa - 2-441-4742 / 2-441-8243 / 2-223-2672 / 295-7400 / 1-800-359-2673 / http://CopaAir.com
Plaza Torre Mercedes - Paseo Colon Mon.-Fri.-8am-6pm. Sat.-8am-2pm.
Cubana - 2-430-4787 / 2-221-7625 / 2-221-6918 / http://Cubana.cu
Delta - 2-440-4805-airport/ 2-440-4812/12 or 13-baggage / 2-443-9189/ 2-443-9183??/ 1-800-325-8224-bag.US / 2-257-4141/2-English / 0800-056-2002 / http://Delta.com (NY 5 times/week)
Frontier - Denver-SJO (only Dec. 18-Sept. 4) http://FrontierAirlines.com / in the U.S. 1-800-432-1359 / 1-303-371-7000. Departs Denver at 12:10am & arrives into CR at 6:25am - Return - 6:30am-12:15pm.
Iberia - 2-441-0025-airport / 2-431-5633/5634-office / 2-441-5635 / 2-257-8266 / U.S.-1-800-772-4642 1/2 / http://Iberia.com - HOURS: 8am-noon & 1-5:30pm.
JET BLUE - Orlando-SJO
KLM (Air France) - 2-220-4111 (only ticket office - no flights to CR) / http://KLM.com
LACSA (TACA) - 2-443-3555 / http://TACA.com
MartinAir - 2-440-8848 / 2-232-3246 / http://MartinAir.com
Mexicana - 2-441-9377 / 2-295-6969 / http://Mexicana.com
Nature Air - Pavas Airport (they are NOT at SJO)- 2-299-6070 / 2-299-6000 / http://NatureAir.com
NorthWest (Liberia Airport I believe) - 2-668-1078
SANSA - 2-442-9385 / 2-223-4179 / 2-221-9414 / 2-290-4400-office / 1-877-767-2672-US / http://FlySansa.com
Sky Services (charter out of Canada into Liberia only [I think])
Spirit Airlines - 1-800-756-7117-in Spanish / 1-800-772-7117-U.S. / 0-800-011-1103 / 2-430-7815-Baggage Claim / http://SpiritAir.com - OFFICE: Heredia-Ultrapark Business Centre
(NOTE: Spirit goes to MANY other Countries BUT you will ALWAYS have to go via Ft. Lauderdale [and sometimes overnight]. They fly to ARUBA, BAHAMAS - Nassau, San Salvador, CAYMEN ISLANDS - Grand Cayman, COLUMBIA - Bogata, Cartagena, DOMINICAN REPUBLIC - Santo Domingo, Punta Cana, GUATAMALA - Guatamala City, HAITI - Port au Prince, HONDURAS - San Pedro Sula, JAMAICA - Kingston, Montego Bay, MEXICO - Cancun, NICARAGUA - Managua, PANAMA - Panama City, PERU - Lima, PUERTO RICO - San Jan, Aguadilla, Ponce, TURKS & CAICOS ISLANDS - Providenciales, USVI - US VIRGIN ISLAND - St. Thomas, St. Maarten
TACA (LACSA) – 2-437-2664 / 2-437-1000 2-443-3555 (Mon.-Fri. 4-9pm) / 2-257-9444 / 2-296-9533 / 2-299-8222-CR res. - 1-engl / 1-800-400-8222-US Res / http://TACA.com (now to David, Panama to SJO)
OFFICES:
Curridabat - 75 metros al oeste del Colegio Federado de Ingenieros y Arquitectos . Centro Comercial Plaza Freses Local #7. HOURS: Mon-Fri 8am-8pm, Sat 8am-5pm, Sun 9am-5pm
Escazu (San Rafael) - Centro Comercial Plaza Los Laureles. HOURS: Mon-Fri 8am-8pm, Sat 8am-5pm, Sun 9am-5pm
San Jose (La Sabana) - Diagonal Noreste al parque metropolitano La Sabana. HOURS: Mon-Fri 8am-8pm, Sat 8am-5pm, Sun 9am-5pm
United - 2-441-8025 (only on Mon, Wed. Sat. 10:30am-2pm). 2-234-3434 / 2-220-4844 / http://United.com Liberia Airport - Sat. & Sun. 668-1194
USAir - 2-430-6690 / 2-520-0593 / 0800-011-0793 / http://USAirways.com
CHARTERS
Aerobell (2-290-0000 / http://aerobell.com / soporte@aerobell.com)
Small planes & helicopters for Air Charters, Executive Flights, Aerial Photography, Emergency Flights, Parachuting & International Flights
From Tobias Bolanos/Pavas Airport (Hanger 14)
to:
Quepos
Nicoya
Tortuguero
Managua, Nicaragua
Bocas del Toro, Panama
Guatamala
(the numbers that start with a “4” are for the counter at the airport. The 800 type numbers and those that start with a 2 are mainly ticket offices NOT at the airport. Get updated info at http://alterra.co.cr/FIWS/contactAerolinea.aspx)
SENIORS:
Seniors are WELL respected in Costa Rica! In most instances, you get to go to the head of the line including for security, immigration and customs. Each airline has a different starting age for what constitutes a “senior”.
IMMIGRATIONS: 2-440-0504 / 2-441-5541-fax
There's FREE WiFi/WIRELESS Internet throughout the SJO Airport!!
AIRPORT NUMBERS:
SAN JOSE - SJO (Juan SantaMaria): 2-437-2626 (I also have 2-441-0744??) - http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Juan_Santamar%C3%ADa_International_Airport
PAVAS (Tobias Bolanos): 2-232-2472
LIBERIA - Guanacaste (Daniel Oduber [I've also seen it called Tomas Guardia??]): 668-1010 (I've also seen 666-0695) http://liberiacostaricainfo.com/Airport-Liberia.htm / http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Daniel_Oduber_International_Airport
LIMON: 2-758-1379
ARRIVAL & DEPARTURE INFO (like the screens at the airport - cool!!):
http://alterra.co.cr/FIWS/index.aspx
INTERNATIONALLY: http://FlightStats.com
http://costa-rica-information.org/arrivals.html
AUTOMATED FLIGHT INFO:
2-437-2626 - English-9 Arrival-1 Departures-2 (I find it hasn’t worked properly 90% of the time for me)
GENERAL AIRPORT INFO:
Client Services: 2-443-1737 / 2-443-1244-fax (5am-10pm) (they speak GOOD English & are REALLY helpful with ANY questions you have!! They can NOT page anyone)
AIRPORT TAXI:
http://TaxiAeropuerto.com/ing_index.shtml / Reservations - 2-222-6865 / Office - 2-441-1319 / 2-443-7544
Louis Fernando is a driver with them that speaks a fair amount of English (8-840-1907 / 2-443-6332-Alejuela / Luis10@CostaRRicense@CR)
Airport taxis (the official ones) - $22 one way – 1-4 (though not much luggage as the trunks tend to be smaller so I’ve found they’re really only comfy if it’s 1-2 people if you have 2 pieces of checked luggage per person), $26-van – 1-10 people. I’ve noticed they RARELY speak English & RARELY know the area very well since is USUALLY VERY complicated so if you choose to take them when coming to The Fountains just to save a few penny’s, we will NOT interact – you’ll get to figure out how to get them here (I’m TIGHT on this after a recent PAIN that wasted 48 of my minutes running back & forth between my house & the road 3 times!!).
PARKING
AIRPORT:
$16/8,850-c/day / $2.50/1,350 colones/hour (2-440-6700-sheltered garage with guard / 2-437-2400-office)
LONGER TERM:
Park & Fly http://CostaRicaParkAndFly.com / 2-441-1401 / 2-440-3134 / info@CostaRicaParkAndFly.com
Open 24/7, FREE transportation to the airport. DIRECTIONS: Del Aeropuerto Juan Santa María 500 mts al norte hacia Alajela por la radial Francisco Orlich
INTERNATIONAL AIRLINES:
Not poz these days. I think everything goes through somewhere - TACA (varies but it's free drinks, I believe you actually get fed & it may be a faster option), America West (through Phoenix), American (go through DFW - NOT Miami!!!), Continental (Houston), Delta (through Atlanta), Jet Blue (through Orlando), Spirit Air (through Ft. Lauderdale), USAir (through Pittsburgh).
AeroRepublica (coming soon - Bogota, Medellin, Panama City-SJO)
Air Canada - 2-441-8025-English-9 8am-1pm Mon.-Sat. / 2-243-1860 / 0800-052-1988 / http://AirCanada.ca
Air China (coming)
Air Comet - 2-291-0684 (8am-noon) / http://AirComet.com (only Sat. Madrid-SJO)
Air France (KLM) - 2-220-4111 (only ticket office - no flights to CR) / http://AirFrance.com/cr
Air Panama - 2-222-0712 / 2-222-0753-fax / 8-392-4256 / 2-601-1007 / 2-296-8592? / 507-316-9000 / 507-315-0439 (I'm giving you their Panama #s as I have yet to get through to their ticket office) / http://FlyAirPanama.com -
TICKET OFFICE: San Jose - on Paseo Colon at Calle 34, Edificio Elizabeth
Air Transat - 2-441-9444 / http://AirTransat.com (Montreal, Toronto-SJO seasonal)
America West - 2-430-6690 / 0800-0110888 / http://AmericaWest.com
American - 2-442-8800 / 2-257-1266 / 248-9010 / 1-800-433-7300-U.S. / http://AA.com (Dallas, Ft. Lauderdale, Los Angeles [seasonal], Miami)
TICKET OFFICES:
San Jose - Sabana Este - DIRECTIONS: Centro Cars Building - next to Mas x Meno & across the street of the Hotel Corobici - just at the entrance of the hwy to Alajuela. HOURS: Mon.-Fri. 8:30am-7pm, Sat. 9am-1pm. ADVANCE CHECK IN: Mon.-Fri. 9am-5pm
Escazu (Guachipelin) - Plaza Roble - in front of MultiPlaza - 1st Floor - Blvd. Camino Real. HOURS: Mon.-Fri. 9am-6pm, Sat. 9am-1pm. ADVANCE CHECK IN: Mon.-Fri. 9am-5pm
San Pedro / Curridabat - DIRECTIONS: Edificio Torre del Este - Frente Facultad de Derecho - De La Universidad De Costa Rica. HOURS: Mon.-Fri. 9am-6pm, Sat. 9am-1pm. ADVANCE CHECK IN: Mon.-Fri. 9am-4pm
Avianca - (Bogota, Columbia-SFO 4 times week)
China Eastern (coming)
Continental - 2-440-0580 / 2-442-1904 / 2-286-4911 / 0800-044-0005 / http://Continental.com (ask for Christian)
Condor - 2-430-4787 / 2-441-9444 / 2-243-1818 / http://Condor.com
Copa - 2-441-4742 / 2-441-8243 / 2-223-2672 / 295-7400 / 1-800-359-2673 / http://CopaAir.com
Plaza Torre Mercedes - Paseo Colon Mon.-Fri.-8am-6pm. Sat.-8am-2pm.
Cubana - 2-430-4787 / 2-221-7625 / 2-221-6918 / http://Cubana.cu
Delta - 2-440-4805-airport/ 2-440-4812/12 or 13-baggage / 2-443-9189/ 2-443-9183??/ 1-800-325-8224-bag.US / 2-257-4141/2-English / 0800-056-2002 / http://Delta.com (NY 5 times/week)
Frontier - Denver-SJO (only Dec. 18-Sept. 4) http://FrontierAirlines.com / in the U.S. 1-800-432-1359 / 1-303-371-7000. Departs Denver at 12:10am & arrives into CR at 6:25am - Return - 6:30am-12:15pm.
Iberia - 2-441-0025-airport / 2-431-5633/5634-office / 2-441-5635 / 2-257-8266 / U.S.-1-800-772-4642 1/2 / http://Iberia.com - HOURS: 8am-noon & 1-5:30pm.
JET BLUE - Orlando-SJO
KLM (Air France) - 2-220-4111 (only ticket office - no flights to CR) / http://KLM.com
LACSA (TACA) - 2-443-3555 / http://TACA.com
MartinAir - 2-440-8848 / 2-232-3246 / http://MartinAir.com
Mexicana - 2-441-9377 / 2-295-6969 / http://Mexicana.com
Nature Air - Pavas Airport (they are NOT at SJO)- 2-299-6070 / 2-299-6000 / http://NatureAir.com
NorthWest (Liberia Airport I believe) - 2-668-1078
SANSA - 2-442-9385 / 2-223-4179 / 2-221-9414 / 2-290-4400-office / 1-877-767-2672-US / http://FlySansa.com
Sky Services (charter out of Canada into Liberia only [I think])
Spirit Airlines - 1-800-756-7117-in Spanish / 1-800-772-7117-U.S. / 0-800-011-1103 / 2-430-7815-Baggage Claim / http://SpiritAir.com - OFFICE: Heredia-Ultrapark Business Centre
(NOTE: Spirit goes to MANY other Countries BUT you will ALWAYS have to go via Ft. Lauderdale [and sometimes overnight]. They fly to ARUBA, BAHAMAS - Nassau, San Salvador, CAYMEN ISLANDS - Grand Cayman, COLUMBIA - Bogata, Cartagena, DOMINICAN REPUBLIC - Santo Domingo, Punta Cana, GUATAMALA - Guatamala City, HAITI - Port au Prince, HONDURAS - San Pedro Sula, JAMAICA - Kingston, Montego Bay, MEXICO - Cancun, NICARAGUA - Managua, PANAMA - Panama City, PERU - Lima, PUERTO RICO - San Jan, Aguadilla, Ponce, TURKS & CAICOS ISLANDS - Providenciales, USVI - US VIRGIN ISLAND - St. Thomas, St. Maarten
TACA (LACSA) – 2-437-2664 / 2-437-1000 2-443-3555 (Mon.-Fri. 4-9pm) / 2-257-9444 / 2-296-9533 / 2-299-8222-CR res. - 1-engl / 1-800-400-8222-US Res / http://TACA.com (now to David, Panama to SJO)
OFFICES:
Curridabat - 75 metros al oeste del Colegio Federado de Ingenieros y Arquitectos . Centro Comercial Plaza Freses Local #7. HOURS: Mon-Fri 8am-8pm, Sat 8am-5pm, Sun 9am-5pm
Escazu (San Rafael) - Centro Comercial Plaza Los Laureles. HOURS: Mon-Fri 8am-8pm, Sat 8am-5pm, Sun 9am-5pm
San Jose (La Sabana) - Diagonal Noreste al parque metropolitano La Sabana. HOURS: Mon-Fri 8am-8pm, Sat 8am-5pm, Sun 9am-5pm
United - 2-441-8025 (only on Mon, Wed. Sat. 10:30am-2pm). 2-234-3434 / 2-220-4844 / http://United.com Liberia Airport - Sat. & Sun. 668-1194
USAir - 2-430-6690 / 2-520-0593 / 0800-011-0793 / http://USAirways.com
CHARTERS
Aerobell (2-290-0000 / http://aerobell.com / soporte@aerobell.com)
Small planes & helicopters for Air Charters, Executive Flights, Aerial Photography, Emergency Flights, Parachuting & International Flights
From Tobias Bolanos/Pavas Airport (Hanger 14)
to:
Quepos
Nicoya
Tortuguero
Managua, Nicaragua
Bocas del Toro, Panama
Guatamala
(the numbers that start with a “4” are for the counter at the airport. The 800 type numbers and those that start with a 2 are mainly ticket offices NOT at the airport. Get updated info at http://alterra.co.cr/FIWS/contactAerolinea.aspx)
SENIORS:
Seniors are WELL respected in Costa Rica! In most instances, you get to go to the head of the line including for security, immigration and customs. Each airline has a different starting age for what constitutes a “senior”.
IMMIGRATIONS: 2-440-0504 / 2-441-5541-fax
Sunday, August 2, 2009
HUGE Changes in new Transit/Driving Laws in Costa Rica 9/23/09 - EDUCATE YOURSELF!
This was shared with me per Amy/cstrcstamyst. She's been SOOOO CONSIDERATE as to translate the new laws into English which you can purchase at http://NewLeyDeTransito.co
I understand her concerns - especially light of the potential problems for more pressure for bribes but I VERY MUCH agree with some of the new laws (I've had NUMEROUS friends, lovers & family DIE from IDIOT drivers which is prolific in CR hence I can't see owning a car here!! I live in the MOST convenient area so I can walk, bus (ok - rarely) or my preferred - taxi which is pretty cheap & SANER!!).
THANX Amy for helping to educate us & make OUR lives easier!!!! I think this is WELL worth the investment if you drive or intend on driving in Costa Rica!!
##########################
Amy Stivers (Shorty) here. Most of you know, I rarely send a mass email. Today is different, as I’m sending you some information on the new changes to the Ley de Transito that will be very very important to you as of September 23rd, 2009. On that date, a sweeping change in the Transit Law takes effect, and all of us need to be prepared. I’ve lived here over 15 years, and this might be the most dramatic change in law that Costa Rica’s attempted in a long while.
Although COSEVI (Consejo de Seguridad Vial) is obligated by law to inform all residents of the new changes, thoroughly enough for everyone to have a full understanding, nothing has been distributed to the English speaking population that lets this sector know what they’re really in for. Following are some highlights which should get your attention:
* 400 new Transito Officers will hit the streets in September 23rd, a 50% increase over the=2 0800 already on the roadways.
* All drivers’ licenses will be computerized, and accredited 50 points. When you commit an infraction, you’re issued a $$ fine, but also you get points deducted. The new system is so strict, that running a stop sign only twice can leave you with a suspended license for TWO YEARS. Transito Officials will be communicating to Cosevi central via radio and computer every time someone gets pulled over. It’s expected that citations will be issued following transit accidents as well. A simple fender bender could end up with serious fines issued, and possibly loss of license if you have more than one such situation.
* Parents and people who transport children under 12 must have safety seats, and the areas where a child may be seated will be restricted. No more children in the front seat, and no booster seats in the middle area of the back seat, no infant seats in the middle. Does your car support the new regulations? Many par ents are finding that NO, their car won’t be legal to transport all their kids any more. Not complying can get a parent’s license suspended for TWO YEARS, with the first infraction.
* You’ll be required to carry a number of new devices in your car at all times, and use reflective vests and triangles any time you perform roadway maintenance, or risk half your license points on the first infraction. Even bicyclists will have to carry new devices, so even if you don’t drive, you really need to inform yourself.
* There’s going to be a host of new infractions possible for everyone, including not yielding to a pedestrian in the crosswalk, which will cost you half your license points with one citation. It will take at least one year and possibly up to four years to recover those license points, if you do not commit any new infractions AT ALL.
* Foreigners who don’t get a National driver’s license within 90 days of last entry will be fined c68,100 colones now. If you drive a car or motorcycle and haven’t gotten your CR license yet, now is the time to plan it.
Needless to say, common sense and first-world driving experience will NOT get you through the new changes without risking some serious fines, and even suspension of your license. Costa Rica has never before REQUIRED any type of training or education to issue their licenses, and now with this law, Costa Rica’s President and Minister of Transport aim to rectify the ignorance, make everyone learn very fast, at the risk of very high fines and of easily losing your license. All Costa Ricans are rapidly re-educating themselves, as should the rest of us. Please inform yourself now, and get prepared so that you are not one of those who falls through the cracks come September.
Many people are voicing concerns that so many new officers, so many new infractions, and so much at stake is the perfe ct storm for having Transito Officers running rampant with the solicitation & nbsp;of bribes, and committing abuses. This is a valid concern, and provisions are in place with the new law for appeals an complaints, without all the previous legal legwork that used to be required. We all need to be prepared to know how to appeal citations, how to report abuse by officers, buses, and taxis, and how to pay citations an d renew our licenses.
In cooperation with InsideCostaRica.com, I’ve compiled an ebook in English with all this information for use by the English speaking residents here in Costa Rica, as well as those who are researching and planning moving to Costa Rica. You may find it for sale at http://www.InsideCostaRica
It’s called “Shorty’s Guide to the New Ley de Transito 2009”, and in addition, InsideCostaRica.com will be running weekly articles with overviews of different aspects of the new law. InsideCostaRica is a free daily English newsletter and site for Costa Rica, with free daily newsletter emails. You may sign up for the free newsletter with the link towards the top rig ht of the home page, and keep up with the situation.
Thank you to all of you for taking the time to read this. I have not put you on a mailing list of any kind, and won't be sending any other emails besides this one. I hope everyone gets themselves informed and prepared for September, so that you suffer no surprises on the roadways.
Happy Motoring!
Amy (Shorty)
http://NewLeyDeTransito.co
cstrcstamyst@aim.com
(tell her Vicki referred ya!!)
Sunday, July 26, 2009
ACUPUNCTURE & AURICULOTHERAPY - ALTERNATIVE HEALING in Costa Rica
I'm starting a list of some Acupuncturists as well as other Alternative Therapists+. Do you have someone to add to this upcoming site? Please e- me at CostaRicaResourceGuide@gmail.com
GENE" MCDONALD - Escazu (Centro)
ACUPUNCTURE & AuriculoTherapy* - Amazing Results!!
Have I a treatment for you that’s had AMAZING RESULTS for most (not all) of the people that I’ve shared his info with (& the FIRST person I go to for ANY/ALL that ails me!!)!
Eugene "GENE" MCDONALD A.P. (Acupuncture Physician) (8-352-0661 / acutherapy0@hotmail.com) in Escazu Centro does traditional Acupuncture PLUS he has a VERY unique machine that I've seen over & over to have AMAZING results!!
It's called AuriculoTherapy*!! In MY lay persons terms, it's like acupuncture but withOUT needles - an electric stim-type gizmo (or pressure) that goes around the acupressure points inside your ears which then goes to various organs, etc. (only Western medicine believers, laugh all ya want but Chinese Medicine goes back THOUSANDS of years with GREAT results!!).
I've seen MANY MANY other people have AMAZING RESULTS in just one or two visits in LOTS of other areas with AuriculoTherapy (things you've had for awhile will most likely take longer - AND . . . YOU have to TRULY - to your CORE - desire TO let whatever it is go!!)!!!
Everything from "problems" with their NECK, SHOULDER, ELBOW & BACK (recently I had a guy at my place that could barely stand. After just ONE visit to Gene he was DANCING!!), SCIATICA (I had a guest that had sciatica for YEARS & got off a plane in INTENSE pain. One visit [& over 2 years later] NO sciatica & the next day, she was able to do the zip line/canopy tour she'd always dreamed of but didn't think she could get up to prior to Gene), PAIN (I've know quite a few people that have gone to him for various pains from surgery related, falls, etc. that had GREAT results!! One person had an injury 30 years before & after one treatment - had FULL range of motion from his treatment. Another had an injury 3 years before & was 80% healed in 1 visit!!), PMS (I have a friend that goes to him for period pains & HORRIBLE PMS with GREAT results & she’d been going to another popular acupuncturist for YEARS!), WHIPLASH, SPORTS INJURIES, CARPAL TUNNEL, FIBROMYALIGIA, SACRO ILIAC, STRESS (I went for this t he day before leaving on a trip & my blood pressure was SOARING initially & afterwards I was 80% calmer after just one visit!!), TENSION, HEADACHES, MIGRAINES (I've known quite a few people that have EXCELLENT results with this), DEPRESSION (I had a friend that was literally ready to go OVER the edge that went to Gene & survived & is thriving!!), ADDICTIONS FROM ALCOHOL, SMOKING, DRUGS, FOOD (REALLY GOOD results. I had a guest that was at the point of drinking straight rubbing alcohol & had been drinking heavily since she was 8 years old & after just 3 days [of a 30+ day program] & 6 months later, the thought of alcohol STILL, over 6 months later, makes her want to throw up & she's been challenged every day by an alcoholic boyfriend but no drinks for her yet!!! My perception is that it helps tremendously for people to get off the "iction" [though emotional therapy is still a REALLY important enhancement for long term results with this I believe!!! We ALL must deal with our "stuff" that creates the "izm" that we ALL have & unfortunately AuriculoTherapy doesn't do that so therapy is REALLY important to do with it I think]), ANXIETY, INSOMNIA, FATIGUE, EPILEPSY, FLU-COLD, SINUSITIS, HEMORRHOIDS, TMJ, FACIAL PARALYSIS, APPETITE, VOMITING, ARTHRITIS, KIDNEY STONES, HEMIPLEGIA, ONE-SIDE PARALYSIS, CONSTIPATIONS, DIARRHEA (I know a pregnant gal that couldn't even hold down water & had horrible diarrhea & had amazing results immediately!!) & LOTS of other things++!!!! Some have even gone to him to get even better results than a Massage!!
Recently I had 2 big falls (LOTS of "messages" around those [I believe to my CORE that the Emotional creates the Physical!!! The reason I've been SOOOO OVERAL healthy for over 15 years is this belief & Louis Hay's "You CAN Heal Your Life" book which is my "bible!!" http://LouiseHay.com]).
One re-aggravated a former shoulder dislocation injury & the other was a doozy (I was bragging to my best friend here about how I was workin' on being more "Present". 30 min. later I was rushing off to my hair stylist (that I was late for). I looked up to the plaza it was in 2 1/2 blocks away - NOT being "present". Anyone that lives in Costa Rica, KNOWS that when you go walking or driving on ANY street - you MUST be FULLY "present" 24/7 (because of potholes, missing manhole covers, things sticking up in the concrete++) or . . . SPLAT!!!! I tripped over a piece of metal that was growing out of the sidewalk (that had NOTHING attached to it like a box to lift or anything) & there I went, right cheek (face cheek) first, hands/wrists & right knee!! OUCH!!! THANX to Danae suggesting Arnica, ice & me doing Reiki - the scapes weren't so bad but it was 2 days of PAIN (none of my body/Spirit workers were in town!!).
When I finally got into Gene - I could bend my swollen knee (& that swelling went down pretty fast) & all my pain was like 85% gone!! WOW!!
NOTE: MANY people that I know have switched from other quite popular/well known acupuncturists in Costa Rica to Gene with QUITE GOOD & MUCH faster results. Gene also gives his patients ONE-ON-ONE - FOCUSED attention!!!
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NEW!! ACUPUNCTURE MERIDIAN BALANCING TREATMENT (with needles)
What Josh wrote on this technique he had done at Gene's:
Today I went to see my friend and miracle worker Dr. Eugene McDonald in Centro Escazu for an overall balancing acupuncture treatment. I'm an overall happy kind of guy but like so many others I've recently gone through some challenging events and breaking that pattern was proving more difficult than usual. So after explaining my overall state of being to Dr. Gene (it's important that you are open & honest) he recommended his balancing treatment. This was my first experience with the needles and I can say it didn't hurt at all for those of you that wonder about that. I would say the treatment took about 30-45 minutes and I was so calm and relaxed after the treatment was over. It was kind of a euphoric feeling. It's been about 6 hours since my treatment and I have to say that I have noticed an increased feeling of overall wellness and sense of only better things to come.
Give it a try if you're feeling down or looking for a way to enter a positive state of mind. Dr. Gene is always my first choice when I need a medical repair of any kind. Call him! JOSH
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ANOTHER TECHNIQUE THAT CAN SOMETIMES HELP!!
Scalp Acupuncture, another method of Acupuncture Micro-System, that can get results when other acupuncture methods, like traditional body acupuncture, doesn't. Specifically for Brain Damage like STROKE, PARALYSIS FOLLOWING STROKE (hemiplegia), MOTOR SENSORY DISTURBANCES, CENTRAL NERVOUS SYSTEM DISORDERS, TREMOR CHORES, MENIERES, CHRONIC MUSCLE SPASMS
http://healingtherapies.info/scalp_acupuncture.htm
http://scalpacupuncture.org/
http://itmonline.org/arts/newscalp.htm
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Of COURSE I believe YOUR success depends on YOU believing it can help as with ANYTHING in life - your doubt/negativity can override even the most amazing technique!! NOTHING can work if you don't BELIEVE & LANGUAGE that it will!! (I've had people tell me they were "healers" & that tweaked me as I believe that Spirit/God can't even "heal me" if I'm not TRULY desiring to RECEIVE! This type of "belief" is what got me to name my retreat/workshop/holistic wellness space "The House of SELF Empowerment")
Your results/amount of time for healing can also take longer if the injury/illness has been with you for some time &/or is deep.
My wish for you if you go to Gene is that you have at LEAST the success these people did or MORE!!!!
INVESTMENT IN YOUR BODY/HEALTH: $30 for the first visit & $25 thereafter (possibly less if it’s a quick & easy thing). He’ll give you a FREE CONSULTATION if you’d like.
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EDUCATION & TRAINING:
3 years at F.I.T.C.M. (Florida Institute of Traditional Chinese Medicine) and 800 hours of internship with 13 different Chinese teachers including Chinese Acupuncture, Medicinal Herbology, Tui Na (Chinese Massage) and more. N.C.C.A.O.M. certified (National Certification Commission for Acupuncture & Oriental Medicine)
One year Japanese Toyo Hari, (see http://Toyohari.org ) A more sensative and effective method developed by blind acupuncture physicians based on 5 element theory.
Specializing in Auriculotherapy , an acupuncture micro-system with or without needles. I studied this method with Dr. Li Chun Huang because it can be done without needles and usually gets immediate results, especially effective for painful conditions from migraines/headaches, sciatica, muscle spasms, sports injuries, sprain, strain, tendonitis, shoulder, neck, back, elbow, whiplash, carpal tunnel syndrome, sacro illiac, TMJ, kidney stones, intercostal neuralgia, stress, tension, anxiety, depression, insomnia, fatigue, epilepsy, flu-cold, facial paralysis, appetite/eating disorders, arthritis, hemiplegia, addition to drugs & alcohol and almost all medical conditions and health maintenance without the use of drugs.
The most important thing is yes, it does work, even after conventional methods and drugs didn't help and without drugs in 8 out of 10 cases. My treatments get immediate results in 80% of cases before you leave my office. Very chronic and stubborn cases may require a few treatments to start getting results.
Acupuncture works even if other therapies had little or no results. Free consultation, U.S. license, 19 years experience, Eugene Mc Donald, A.P (acupuncture physician)
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AuriculoTherapy is a clinically effective treatment modality utilized for the relief of chronic pain and the alleviation of substance abuse. The external ear has been shown to have a somatotopic organization in an inverted fetus pattern, wherein each part of the auricle corresponds to a specific part of the body. Detection of electrical conductance and tenderness palpation can reveal specific auricular reflex points which can be stimulated to alter pathological reflex patterns in the brain, in internal organs, and in different peripheral regions of the musculoskeletal body.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Auriculotherapy
http://AuriculoTherapy.net
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Ruth Lopez at HARMONY CENTER
Escazu (San Rafael) (2-288-4658 / http://HarmonyCenters.com / info@HarmonyCenters.com) - DIRECTIONS: ON Calle Vieja near Calle Country Club
I've only heard REALLY POSITIVE things about Ruth & that she spends one-on-one time with you & utilizes other techniques like color therapy.
INVESTMENT IN YOUR BODY: 20,000/session.
They also do Massages - Therapeutic - 30 min. $30. Anti-Stress –$65/60 min., Andian Head Massage – 45 min. $40, Complete Massage & Facial – 1 1/2 hours $100, Foot Reflexology – 15 min. $25. Also – facials from $30-$60. Wraps $50. Scrubs $50.
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Dr. Kim Ok Gwan, Ph.D, OMD - Rohrmoser
(2-231-6361 / http://DrKimCostaRica.net / Dr.KimOkgwan@gmail.com)
INVESTMENT IN YOUR BODY/HEALTH: 10,000 a visit.
Dr. Kim is a really nice Acupuncturist (I've been to him in the past). He does many clients at one time & many people get good results. He speaks good English & often entertains people with his flute in between sessions!
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Daniel Frankson - Los Yoses - near the Subaru Dealer
(225-8765)
He speaks both English and Spanish - Besides being a certified acupuncturist he is also a chiropractor. I have yet to hear of a single complaint- only praise.
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Tell them Vicki shared the info!!
GENE" MCDONALD - Escazu (Centro)
ACUPUNCTURE & AuriculoTherapy* - Amazing Results!!
Have I a treatment for you that’s had AMAZING RESULTS for most (not all) of the people that I’ve shared his info with (& the FIRST person I go to for ANY/ALL that ails me!!)!
Eugene "GENE" MCDONALD A.P. (Acupuncture Physician) (8-352-0661 / acutherapy0@hotmail.com) in Escazu Centro does traditional Acupuncture PLUS he has a VERY unique machine that I've seen over & over to have AMAZING results!!
It's called AuriculoTherapy*!! In MY lay persons terms, it's like acupuncture but withOUT needles - an electric stim-type gizmo (or pressure) that goes around the acupressure points inside your ears which then goes to various organs, etc. (only Western medicine believers, laugh all ya want but Chinese Medicine goes back THOUSANDS of years with GREAT results!!).
I've seen MANY MANY other people have AMAZING RESULTS in just one or two visits in LOTS of other areas with AuriculoTherapy (things you've had for awhile will most likely take longer - AND . . . YOU have to TRULY - to your CORE - desire TO let whatever it is go!!)!!!
Everything from "problems" with their NECK, SHOULDER, ELBOW & BACK (recently I had a guy at my place that could barely stand. After just ONE visit to Gene he was DANCING!!), SCIATICA (I had a guest that had sciatica for YEARS & got off a plane in INTENSE pain. One visit [& over 2 years later] NO sciatica & the next day, she was able to do the zip line/canopy tour she'd always dreamed of but didn't think she could get up to prior to Gene), PAIN (I've know quite a few people that have gone to him for various pains from surgery related, falls, etc. that had GREAT results!! One person had an injury 30 years before & after one treatment - had FULL range of motion from his treatment. Another had an injury 3 years before & was 80% healed in 1 visit!!), PMS (I have a friend that goes to him for period pains & HORRIBLE PMS with GREAT results & she’d been going to another popular acupuncturist for YEARS!), WHIPLASH, SPORTS INJURIES, CARPAL TUNNEL, FIBROMYALIGIA, SACRO ILIAC, STRESS (I went for this t he day before leaving on a trip & my blood pressure was SOARING initially & afterwards I was 80% calmer after just one visit!!), TENSION, HEADACHES, MIGRAINES (I've known quite a few people that have EXCELLENT results with this), DEPRESSION (I had a friend that was literally ready to go OVER the edge that went to Gene & survived & is thriving!!), ADDICTIONS FROM ALCOHOL, SMOKING, DRUGS, FOOD (REALLY GOOD results. I had a guest that was at the point of drinking straight rubbing alcohol & had been drinking heavily since she was 8 years old & after just 3 days [of a 30+ day program] & 6 months later, the thought of alcohol STILL, over 6 months later, makes her want to throw up & she's been challenged every day by an alcoholic boyfriend but no drinks for her yet!!! My perception is that it helps tremendously for people to get off the "iction" [though emotional therapy is still a REALLY important enhancement for long term results with this I believe!!! We ALL must deal with our "stuff" that creates the "izm" that we ALL have & unfortunately AuriculoTherapy doesn't do that so therapy is REALLY important to do with it I think]), ANXIETY, INSOMNIA, FATIGUE, EPILEPSY, FLU-COLD, SINUSITIS, HEMORRHOIDS, TMJ, FACIAL PARALYSIS, APPETITE, VOMITING, ARTHRITIS, KIDNEY STONES, HEMIPLEGIA, ONE-SIDE PARALYSIS, CONSTIPATIONS, DIARRHEA (I know a pregnant gal that couldn't even hold down water & had horrible diarrhea & had amazing results immediately!!) & LOTS of other things++!!!! Some have even gone to him to get even better results than a Massage!!
Recently I had 2 big falls (LOTS of "messages" around those [I believe to my CORE that the Emotional creates the Physical!!! The reason I've been SOOOO OVERAL healthy for over 15 years is this belief & Louis Hay's "You CAN Heal Your Life" book which is my "bible!!" http://LouiseHay.com]).
One re-aggravated a former shoulder dislocation injury & the other was a doozy (I was bragging to my best friend here about how I was workin' on being more "Present". 30 min. later I was rushing off to my hair stylist (that I was late for). I looked up to the plaza it was in 2 1/2 blocks away - NOT being "present". Anyone that lives in Costa Rica, KNOWS that when you go walking or driving on ANY street - you MUST be FULLY "present" 24/7 (because of potholes, missing manhole covers, things sticking up in the concrete++) or . . . SPLAT!!!! I tripped over a piece of metal that was growing out of the sidewalk (that had NOTHING attached to it like a box to lift or anything) & there I went, right cheek (face cheek) first, hands/wrists & right knee!! OUCH!!! THANX to Danae suggesting Arnica, ice & me doing Reiki - the scapes weren't so bad but it was 2 days of PAIN (none of my body/Spirit workers were in town!!).
When I finally got into Gene - I could bend my swollen knee (& that swelling went down pretty fast) & all my pain was like 85% gone!! WOW!!
NOTE: MANY people that I know have switched from other quite popular/well known acupuncturists in Costa Rica to Gene with QUITE GOOD & MUCH faster results. Gene also gives his patients ONE-ON-ONE - FOCUSED attention!!!
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NEW!! ACUPUNCTURE MERIDIAN BALANCING TREATMENT (with needles)
What Josh wrote on this technique he had done at Gene's:
Today I went to see my friend and miracle worker Dr. Eugene McDonald in Centro Escazu for an overall balancing acupuncture treatment. I'm an overall happy kind of guy but like so many others I've recently gone through some challenging events and breaking that pattern was proving more difficult than usual. So after explaining my overall state of being to Dr. Gene (it's important that you are open & honest) he recommended his balancing treatment. This was my first experience with the needles and I can say it didn't hurt at all for those of you that wonder about that. I would say the treatment took about 30-45 minutes and I was so calm and relaxed after the treatment was over. It was kind of a euphoric feeling. It's been about 6 hours since my treatment and I have to say that I have noticed an increased feeling of overall wellness and sense of only better things to come.
Give it a try if you're feeling down or looking for a way to enter a positive state of mind. Dr. Gene is always my first choice when I need a medical repair of any kind. Call him! JOSH
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ANOTHER TECHNIQUE THAT CAN SOMETIMES HELP!!
Scalp Acupuncture, another method of Acupuncture Micro-System, that can get results when other acupuncture methods, like traditional body acupuncture, doesn't. Specifically for Brain Damage like STROKE, PARALYSIS FOLLOWING STROKE (hemiplegia), MOTOR SENSORY DISTURBANCES, CENTRAL NERVOUS SYSTEM DISORDERS, TREMOR CHORES, MENIERES, CHRONIC MUSCLE SPASMS
http://healingtherapies.info/scalp_acupuncture.htm
http://scalpacupuncture.org/
http://itmonline.org/arts/newscalp.htm
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Of COURSE I believe YOUR success depends on YOU believing it can help as with ANYTHING in life - your doubt/negativity can override even the most amazing technique!! NOTHING can work if you don't BELIEVE & LANGUAGE that it will!! (I've had people tell me they were "healers" & that tweaked me as I believe that Spirit/God can't even "heal me" if I'm not TRULY desiring to RECEIVE! This type of "belief" is what got me to name my retreat/workshop/holistic wellness space "The House of SELF Empowerment")
Your results/amount of time for healing can also take longer if the injury/illness has been with you for some time &/or is deep.
My wish for you if you go to Gene is that you have at LEAST the success these people did or MORE!!!!
INVESTMENT IN YOUR BODY/HEALTH: $30 for the first visit & $25 thereafter (possibly less if it’s a quick & easy thing). He’ll give you a FREE CONSULTATION if you’d like.
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EDUCATION & TRAINING:
3 years at F.I.T.C.M. (Florida Institute of Traditional Chinese Medicine) and 800 hours of internship with 13 different Chinese teachers including Chinese Acupuncture, Medicinal Herbology, Tui Na (Chinese Massage) and more. N.C.C.A.O.M. certified (National Certification Commission for Acupuncture & Oriental Medicine)
One year Japanese Toyo Hari, (see http://Toyohari.org ) A more sensative and effective method developed by blind acupuncture physicians based on 5 element theory.
Specializing in Auriculotherapy , an acupuncture micro-system with or without needles. I studied this method with Dr. Li Chun Huang because it can be done without needles and usually gets immediate results, especially effective for painful conditions from migraines/headaches, sciatica, muscle spasms, sports injuries, sprain, strain, tendonitis, shoulder, neck, back, elbow, whiplash, carpal tunnel syndrome, sacro illiac, TMJ, kidney stones, intercostal neuralgia, stress, tension, anxiety, depression, insomnia, fatigue, epilepsy, flu-cold, facial paralysis, appetite/eating disorders, arthritis, hemiplegia, addition to drugs & alcohol and almost all medical conditions and health maintenance without the use of drugs.
The most important thing is yes, it does work, even after conventional methods and drugs didn't help and without drugs in 8 out of 10 cases. My treatments get immediate results in 80% of cases before you leave my office. Very chronic and stubborn cases may require a few treatments to start getting results.
Acupuncture works even if other therapies had little or no results. Free consultation, U.S. license, 19 years experience, Eugene Mc Donald, A.P (acupuncture physician)
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*WHAT IS AURICULOTHERAPY
Definition of AuriculoTherapy and Ear AcupunctureAuriculoTherapy is a clinically effective treatment modality utilized for the relief of chronic pain and the alleviation of substance abuse. The external ear has been shown to have a somatotopic organization in an inverted fetus pattern, wherein each part of the auricle corresponds to a specific part of the body. Detection of electrical conductance and tenderness palpation can reveal specific auricular reflex points which can be stimulated to alter pathological reflex patterns in the brain, in internal organs, and in different peripheral regions of the musculoskeletal body.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Auriculotherapy
http://AuriculoTherapy.net
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Ruth Lopez at HARMONY CENTER
Escazu (San Rafael) (2-288-4658 / http://HarmonyCenters.com / info@HarmonyCenters.com) - DIRECTIONS: ON Calle Vieja near Calle Country Club
I've only heard REALLY POSITIVE things about Ruth & that she spends one-on-one time with you & utilizes other techniques like color therapy.
INVESTMENT IN YOUR BODY: 20,000/session.
They also do Massages - Therapeutic - 30 min. $30. Anti-Stress –$65/60 min., Andian Head Massage – 45 min. $40, Complete Massage & Facial – 1 1/2 hours $100, Foot Reflexology – 15 min. $25. Also – facials from $30-$60. Wraps $50. Scrubs $50.
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Dr. Kim Ok Gwan, Ph.D, OMD - Rohrmoser
(2-231-6361 / http://DrKimCostaRica.net / Dr.KimOkgwan@gmail.com)
INVESTMENT IN YOUR BODY/HEALTH: 10,000 a visit.
Dr. Kim is a really nice Acupuncturist (I've been to him in the past). He does many clients at one time & many people get good results. He speaks good English & often entertains people with his flute in between sessions!
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Daniel Frankson - Los Yoses - near the Subaru Dealer
(225-8765)
He speaks both English and Spanish - Besides being a certified acupuncturist he is also a chiropractor. I have yet to hear of a single complaint- only praise.
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Tell them Vicki shared the info!!
Sunday, June 14, 2009
VEGETARIAN, ORGANIC, RAW, JUICE BAR - RESTAURANTS IN COSTA RICA
The concept of VEGETARIAN, ORGANIC, RAW, JUICE BAR restaurants in Costa Rica is SLOWLY catching on. I've JUST started this list so PLEASE share any new ones you have!!!!
OASIS (8-835-8992 / 2-288-4604 / http://OasisCoffeeShop.blogspot.com / OasisCoffeeShop@yahoo.com / http://facebook.com/home.php#/pages/Escazu-Costa-Rica/Oasis-Coffee-Shop-and-Fusion/121911445520?ref=ts)
A REALLY tasty & NEW RESTAURANT!!! A predominately VEGETARIAN menu along with some fish, chicken & egg dishes – a more TASTY, European/Fusion, standard HEALTHY fair with nice presentation!
KID-FRIENDLY. BOOK EXCHANGE. DELIVERY (in the area for a fee). Cash only.
OWNERS: Mario Bello (former chef at Earthly Delights in Ciudad Colon) & Stephanie McPhail (tell them Vicki sent ya).
HOURS: Tues- Sat. –10:30-8pm, Sun. 11am-5pm. Closed Mon.
LOCATION: Escazu (San Rafael)-Trejos Montelegre – the street a block behind KFC – the east side of Hotel Maria Alexandra near where the art supply/classes store used to be. Getting there driving – from the main street where McDonald's turn West into the street at Vivero Exotica & Rosti Pollo are (it's a one-way street. Turn left at the first street, cross over the street that you would normally turn left on to get back onto the main road (by where KFC is) & it’s 1/2 way down on the Left.
BUENA TIERRA Coffee Shop/Organic Cafeteria & Market
(http://BuenaTierraOrganicMarket.blogspot.com / 8- 950-5930 / BuenaTierra.Organica@gmail.com )
In their COOL UNIQUE PLACE (the tables are made out of tree stumps!!)/coffee shop they serve breakfasts and lunches all made with high quality ingredients, organic and natural. Home made cakes, organic coffees and teas, take-home our gourmets dishes or just order them, buy cosmetics and biodegradable cleaning products. TASTY, GOOD, HEALTHY FOOD with NICE presentation!!
DAILY SPECIALS: 3,000-3,500-c - includes soup, rice, beans, salad and an entrée & Natural drink. All our ingredients are 99% ORGANIC.
HOURS: Mon-Thurs-8am-5pm, Fri-8-6pm, Sat-9am-2pm.
LOCATION: Escazu (Centro) - one block South/up the hill from the main entrance of San Miguel Catholic Church in Centro Escazu in the new Buena Tierra shopping center. It is a green 2-story building decorated with amazing mosaics made by artist Rebeca Fernández (who has her workshop here).
TZU JAN Restaurante Vegetariano y Cafeteria
(2-289-4695)
Some REALLY TASTY unique CHEAP (under 2,000-c on average) VEGETARIAN dishes that you would SWEAR had meat in it!! VERY FILLING!! I ESPECIALLY LOVE #29 - Remalacha/beets that seem like sausages!! YUMMMM!! DELIVER!
LUNCH SPECIALS range from 2,500-3,500-ish that give you a combo of LOTS of goodies!!
HOURS: Mon.-Sat. 10am- 7:30pm (CLOSED on Sun).
LOCATION: San Rafael de Escazu - Just before/North the Bomba Shell (Shell Gas station) - on that side street at the store that sells the rock things - before/North of the Scotia Bank Split.
TANDOORI PALACE
(2-582-0416 / http://TandooriPalaceCR.com / info@TandooriPalaceCR.com)
The food was good though quite spicy for an ALL-YOU-CAN-EAT BUFFET. Lunch includes - 2 starters, 3 meat dishes, 3 vegetable dishes & rice pudding for dessert. The AMBIANCE is WONDERFUL with BEAUTIFUL artwork on the walls & ceilings fabulous & inspiring! The OWNER Adbul Shamsuddin is very friendly & from Pakistan (via Canada) & speaks English.
HOURS: Mon.-Sat. noon-10pm. Lunch Buffet (7,500-c) – noon-2:30pm. Dinner Buffet (10,000-c) - Tues.-Sun. 6-9pm.
LOCATION: Pozos de Santa Ana - Centro Comercial Vistana West/Oeste #14 (the same shopping center as Taco Bell (south of Automercado) – On the road from Santa Ana towards Belen, across from Matras.
CAFE GIRATABLATE
(8-853-9889 / 8-380-2042 / Sanjoo2076@yahoo.com)
The flavors of this VEGETARIAN restaurant leans towards INDIAN like it’s OWNER Sanjey Kumar Patel (Rodrigo’s good friend!)
San Jose
Vishnu
(2-256-6063 / 2-222-2549 / 2-290-0119)
A fast food chain with 9 locations in food courts. Large space. Vegetarian menu includes veggieburgers, juices, sandwiches, soup, beans, & more. CC – MC/V
9 LOCATIONS: San Jose – Downtown – El Mundo - Avenida 1 between Calles 1 & 3 - HOURS: 8am-10pm
El Natural- Avenida 4 & Calle 1 (2-223-3095) – HOURS: 8am-10pm;
San Jose – Nirvana - Avenida 8, Calle 9 & 11 (2-223-4683) – HOURS: 8am-10pm;
San Jose – Vitaminas - Avenida Central & Segunda, Calle 14 (2-223-0294) – HOURS: 8am-10pm;
Heredia – Avenida Central/1, Calle 7 (2-237-2526) – HOURS: Mon.-Fri. 9am-6pm, Sat. 9am-5pm
Bangkok
(2-296-6110 / bangkok@racsa.co.cr)
Tico Thai but one of the better I’ve found. MANY VEGETARIAN dishes. Beef Satay. CC-MC/V.
HOURS: Wed.-Thurs. Noon-3pm & 6-10:30pm. Fri. Noon-3 & 6-11pm. Sat. noon-11pm. Sun. Noon-8pm.
LOCATIONS: San Jose - Sabana West - 400m west from Pop's Sabana, by the univercity UCIMED
AMITABHA
(http://amitabha.costaricaveggies.com / 2-225-2485 / 8-829-8959 / emasalud@yahoo.com / soda.amitabha@costaricaveggies.com ).
Emanuel Amador & Raquel Rodríguez (also of Mandala Spa in Centro Escazu) are bringing you this new restaurant!!
HOURS: Mon.-Sat. 10am-8pm (closed Sun.)
LOCATIONS: San Pedro - Frente al Radio Universidad
PU TI
(2-224-8952)
LOCATION: Guadalupe - In front of Pali NovaCentro
CAFÉ JIRATABLES
(380-2042 / sanjoo2076@yahoo.com)
VEGETARIAN INDIAN dishes at GOOD/CHEAP PRICES. Also, SoyaBURGERS. OWNER: Mukande
HOURS: Mon.-Sat. 8:30am-8pm.
LOCATION: Bario California – in front of KFC & Theatre Iratables.
CAFE DE LA MAR
(2-248-0862 / Chen@Papirotyr.com)
Yummmmy VEGETARIAN dishes at GOOD/CHEAP PRICES!! Kazzrie shared “Everyone that comes in to this special little place becomes a friend. The decor is simple yet cheery & colourful. The music is always interesting! The food is simply delicious. & best of all the prices are very affordable. Plato del dia with soup, drink & vegetarian casado - 1500 colones. OWNERS: Pedro & Marcela (or Simon Chen? / 8-820-5033)
HOURS: Mon.-Fri. 10am-5pm (on the weekends they do seminars).
LOCATION: close to Sabana Park, on the east side from Soda Tapia, 100 meters south, 50 meters east. Directly behind ARCR/Casa Canada
Shakti
Matt says the best thing about them is their DAILY SPECIALS!!
LOCATION: San Jose - next to the Turrialba bus station.
Naturama Uno
Avenida 1 / Calles 3/5
Tin Jo
(2-221-7605 / 2-257-3622 / http://tinjo.com/tj/index.php?id=67 [the English version] / hola@TinJo.com)
They're a mixed Asian restaurant (THAILAND, INDIA, CHINA, VIETNAM, FILIPINA & JAPAN,SUSHI & VEGETARIAN) with a HUGE menu hence LOTS of "Vegetarian" options! 10 dishes. DIM SUM all-day on Sun. VERY pricey. NOTE – their prices INCLUDE the 13% tax & 10% service. Many feel this is the best Asian restaurant in CR - I guess if that's what you're comparing it to but if you're used to REALLY GOOD Asian food - don't go with high expectations (as I did - hey I'm learnin' here. I lived in San Francisco for 17 years - I WAS spoiled!!).
HOURS: 11:30am-3pm, 5:30-10pm
LOCATION: San Jose – Downtown - Calle 11, Ave. 6-8
GANESHA - NOT SURE WHAT'S UP HERE - Heredia-Centro (8-8- 379-7951 / 8-8-880-9238 / RestauranteGanesha@yahoo.com) - AUTHENTIC INDIAN, MEDITERRANEAN, MIDDLE EASTERN & VEGETARIAN cuisine including Lassis, Jal Jeera, Kanji, Chai Masala, Samosas, Pakoras, Parathas, Saag Paneer, Chana Masala, Baingan ka Bharta, Tzatziki, Chicken Tikka Masala, Chicken Curry, Saag Chicken, Homemade Falafel, Hummus, Baba Ganoush, LAMB Shish Kebabs, Gulab Jamun, Kheer, Kulfi, SHWARMAS (1,750), 13 different Pita sandwhich, LOTS of different Indian drinks. Homemade BAKALVA. This is a GREAT place for VEGETARIANS including VEGETARIAN BURGER topped with spinach (2-2400-3500-c). Robbie said it’s a really nice space, there is garden seating for 40 out back & a large upstairs that would be great for a special event. I can't wait to try their Thali's which are combos of a few things for a great price. Their Non-Vegetarian Thali has Chicken Tikka Masala, Keema Matar, Dal, Raita, Mango Chutney, Basmati Rice & Naan or Pita bread. 5900-c vegetarian. Their Mediterranean Thali of 3 pieces falafel, 3 shish kababs, hummus, tzasiki, tabula, pita bread – 7,900-c. Their Vegetarian Thali is just 5,900-c. PRICES: Range from 1400-7900-c (averaging about 3,000-c). Because they’re in the hotel, they’re now adding lots of mainstream gringo foods like breakfasts & burgers plus a few Tico dishes including Casadas for 1,900-c. They also have a new location that sells some of their BASMATI RICE, SPICES like homemade GARA MASALA, Cardomon seeds & ground, & YOGURT, CHICKPEA FLOUR. NEW RESTAURANT ’08. THEY NOW HAVE A BAR!!! CREDIT CARDS (all). CATERING. WIFI. OWNERS: Say “Hola” from Vicki to Indian Sunny & his CR wife Nohemy Neil. HOURS: Mon.-Thurs. 6:30-8:30pm. Fri.-Sat. 6:30am till clients leave. Sun. ?. DIRECTIONS: NEW LOCATION - In the Hotel America, 50 meters South of Central Park in Heredia, next to Fiesta Casino.
SIGLO XXI
VEGETARIAN Chinese restaurant.
LOCATION: San Jose (Sabana West/Oeste) - 300 meters west of POP'S ice cream -
La Mazorca
LOCATION: San Pedro - near the University of CR
Restaurante Vegetariano
LOCATION: San Pedro - near the University of CR
Mango Verde
LOCATION: Heredia (Downtown)
Have anyone to add? Info to change/enhance? E- me at CostaRicaResourceGuide@gmail.com
OASIS (8-835-8992 / 2-288-4604 / http://OasisCoffeeShop.blogspot.com / OasisCoffeeShop@yahoo.com / http://facebook.com/home.php#/pages/Escazu-Costa-Rica/Oasis-Coffee-Shop-and-Fusion/121911445520?ref=ts)
A REALLY tasty & NEW RESTAURANT!!! A predominately VEGETARIAN menu along with some fish, chicken & egg dishes – a more TASTY, European/Fusion, standard HEALTHY fair with nice presentation!
KID-FRIENDLY. BOOK EXCHANGE. DELIVERY (in the area for a fee). Cash only.
OWNERS: Mario Bello (former chef at Earthly Delights in Ciudad Colon) & Stephanie McPhail (tell them Vicki sent ya).
HOURS: Tues- Sat. –10:30-8pm, Sun. 11am-5pm. Closed Mon.
LOCATION: Escazu (San Rafael)-Trejos Montelegre – the street a block behind KFC – the east side of Hotel Maria Alexandra near where the art supply/classes store used to be. Getting there driving – from the main street where McDonald's turn West into the street at Vivero Exotica & Rosti Pollo are (it's a one-way street. Turn left at the first street, cross over the street that you would normally turn left on to get back onto the main road (by where KFC is) & it’s 1/2 way down on the Left.
BUENA TIERRA Coffee Shop/Organic Cafeteria & Market
(http://BuenaTierraOrganicMarket.blogspot.com / 8- 950-5930 / BuenaTierra.Organica@gmail.com )
In their COOL UNIQUE PLACE (the tables are made out of tree stumps!!)/coffee shop they serve breakfasts and lunches all made with high quality ingredients, organic and natural. Home made cakes, organic coffees and teas, take-home our gourmets dishes or just order them, buy cosmetics and biodegradable cleaning products. TASTY, GOOD, HEALTHY FOOD with NICE presentation!!
DAILY SPECIALS: 3,000-3,500-c - includes soup, rice, beans, salad and an entrée & Natural drink. All our ingredients are 99% ORGANIC.
HOURS: Mon-Thurs-8am-5pm, Fri-8-6pm, Sat-9am-2pm.
LOCATION: Escazu (Centro) - one block South/up the hill from the main entrance of San Miguel Catholic Church in Centro Escazu in the new Buena Tierra shopping center. It is a green 2-story building decorated with amazing mosaics made by artist Rebeca Fernández (who has her workshop here).
TZU JAN Restaurante Vegetariano y Cafeteria
(2-289-4695)
Some REALLY TASTY unique CHEAP (under 2,000-c on average) VEGETARIAN dishes that you would SWEAR had meat in it!! VERY FILLING!! I ESPECIALLY LOVE #29 - Remalacha/beets that seem like sausages!! YUMMMM!! DELIVER!
LUNCH SPECIALS range from 2,500-3,500-ish that give you a combo of LOTS of goodies!!
HOURS: Mon.-Sat. 10am- 7:30pm (CLOSED on Sun).
LOCATION: San Rafael de Escazu - Just before/North the Bomba Shell (Shell Gas station) - on that side street at the store that sells the rock things - before/North of the Scotia Bank Split.
TANDOORI PALACE
(2-582-0416 / http://TandooriPalaceCR.com / info@TandooriPalaceCR.com)
The food was good though quite spicy for an ALL-YOU-CAN-EAT BUFFET. Lunch includes - 2 starters, 3 meat dishes, 3 vegetable dishes & rice pudding for dessert. The AMBIANCE is WONDERFUL with BEAUTIFUL artwork on the walls & ceilings fabulous & inspiring! The OWNER Adbul Shamsuddin is very friendly & from Pakistan (via Canada) & speaks English.
HOURS: Mon.-Sat. noon-10pm. Lunch Buffet (7,500-c) – noon-2:30pm. Dinner Buffet (10,000-c) - Tues.-Sun. 6-9pm.
LOCATION: Pozos de Santa Ana - Centro Comercial Vistana West/Oeste #14 (the same shopping center as Taco Bell (south of Automercado) – On the road from Santa Ana towards Belen, across from Matras.
CAFE GIRATABLATE
(8-853-9889 / 8-380-2042 / Sanjoo2076@yahoo.com)
The flavors of this VEGETARIAN restaurant leans towards INDIAN like it’s OWNER Sanjey Kumar Patel (Rodrigo’s good friend!)
San Jose
Vishnu
(2-256-6063 / 2-222-2549 / 2-290-0119)
A fast food chain with 9 locations in food courts. Large space. Vegetarian menu includes veggieburgers, juices, sandwiches, soup, beans, & more. CC – MC/V
9 LOCATIONS: San Jose – Downtown – El Mundo - Avenida 1 between Calles 1 & 3 - HOURS: 8am-10pm
El Natural- Avenida 4 & Calle 1 (2-223-3095) – HOURS: 8am-10pm;
San Jose – Nirvana - Avenida 8, Calle 9 & 11 (2-223-4683) – HOURS: 8am-10pm;
San Jose – Vitaminas - Avenida Central & Segunda, Calle 14 (2-223-0294) – HOURS: 8am-10pm;
Heredia – Avenida Central/1, Calle 7 (2-237-2526) – HOURS: Mon.-Fri. 9am-6pm, Sat. 9am-5pm
Bangkok
(2-296-6110 / bangkok@racsa.co.cr)
Tico Thai but one of the better I’ve found. MANY VEGETARIAN dishes. Beef Satay. CC-MC/V.
HOURS: Wed.-Thurs. Noon-3pm & 6-10:30pm. Fri. Noon-3 & 6-11pm. Sat. noon-11pm. Sun. Noon-8pm.
LOCATIONS: San Jose - Sabana West - 400m west from Pop's Sabana, by the univercity UCIMED
AMITABHA
(http://amitabha.costaricaveggies.com / 2-225-2485 / 8-829-8959 / emasalud@yahoo.com / soda.amitabha@costaricaveggies.com ).
Emanuel Amador & Raquel Rodríguez (also of Mandala Spa in Centro Escazu) are bringing you this new restaurant!!
HOURS: Mon.-Sat. 10am-8pm (closed Sun.)
LOCATIONS: San Pedro - Frente al Radio Universidad
PU TI
(2-224-8952)
LOCATION: Guadalupe - In front of Pali NovaCentro
CAFÉ JIRATABLES
(380-2042 / sanjoo2076@yahoo.com)
VEGETARIAN INDIAN dishes at GOOD/CHEAP PRICES. Also, SoyaBURGERS. OWNER: Mukande
HOURS: Mon.-Sat. 8:30am-8pm.
LOCATION: Bario California – in front of KFC & Theatre Iratables.
CAFE DE LA MAR
(2-248-0862 / Chen@Papirotyr.com)
Yummmmy VEGETARIAN dishes at GOOD/CHEAP PRICES!! Kazzrie shared “Everyone that comes in to this special little place becomes a friend. The decor is simple yet cheery & colourful. The music is always interesting! The food is simply delicious. & best of all the prices are very affordable. Plato del dia with soup, drink & vegetarian casado - 1500 colones. OWNERS: Pedro & Marcela (or Simon Chen? / 8-820-5033)
HOURS: Mon.-Fri. 10am-5pm (on the weekends they do seminars).
LOCATION: close to Sabana Park, on the east side from Soda Tapia, 100 meters south, 50 meters east. Directly behind ARCR/Casa Canada
Shakti
Matt says the best thing about them is their DAILY SPECIALS!!
LOCATION: San Jose - next to the Turrialba bus station.
Naturama Uno
Avenida 1 / Calles 3/5
Tin Jo
(2-221-7605 / 2-257-3622 / http://tinjo.com/tj/index.php?id=67 [the English version] / hola@TinJo.com)
They're a mixed Asian restaurant (THAILAND, INDIA, CHINA, VIETNAM, FILIPINA & JAPAN,SUSHI & VEGETARIAN) with a HUGE menu hence LOTS of "Vegetarian" options! 10 dishes. DIM SUM all-day on Sun. VERY pricey. NOTE – their prices INCLUDE the 13% tax & 10% service. Many feel this is the best Asian restaurant in CR - I guess if that's what you're comparing it to but if you're used to REALLY GOOD Asian food - don't go with high expectations (as I did - hey I'm learnin' here. I lived in San Francisco for 17 years - I WAS spoiled!!).
HOURS: 11:30am-3pm, 5:30-10pm
LOCATION: San Jose – Downtown - Calle 11, Ave. 6-8
GANESHA - NOT SURE WHAT'S UP HERE - Heredia-Centro (8-8- 379-7951 / 8-8-880-9238 / RestauranteGanesha@yahoo.com) - AUTHENTIC INDIAN, MEDITERRANEAN, MIDDLE EASTERN & VEGETARIAN cuisine including Lassis, Jal Jeera, Kanji, Chai Masala, Samosas, Pakoras, Parathas, Saag Paneer, Chana Masala, Baingan ka Bharta, Tzatziki, Chicken Tikka Masala, Chicken Curry, Saag Chicken, Homemade Falafel, Hummus, Baba Ganoush, LAMB Shish Kebabs, Gulab Jamun, Kheer, Kulfi, SHWARMAS (1,750), 13 different Pita sandwhich, LOTS of different Indian drinks. Homemade BAKALVA. This is a GREAT place for VEGETARIANS including VEGETARIAN BURGER topped with spinach (2-2400-3500-c). Robbie said it’s a really nice space, there is garden seating for 40 out back & a large upstairs that would be great for a special event. I can't wait to try their Thali's which are combos of a few things for a great price. Their Non-Vegetarian Thali has Chicken Tikka Masala, Keema Matar, Dal, Raita, Mango Chutney, Basmati Rice & Naan or Pita bread. 5900-c vegetarian. Their Mediterranean Thali of 3 pieces falafel, 3 shish kababs, hummus, tzasiki, tabula, pita bread – 7,900-c. Their Vegetarian Thali is just 5,900-c. PRICES: Range from 1400-7900-c (averaging about 3,000-c). Because they’re in the hotel, they’re now adding lots of mainstream gringo foods like breakfasts & burgers plus a few Tico dishes including Casadas for 1,900-c. They also have a new location that sells some of their BASMATI RICE, SPICES like homemade GARA MASALA, Cardomon seeds & ground, & YOGURT, CHICKPEA FLOUR. NEW RESTAURANT ’08. THEY NOW HAVE A BAR!!! CREDIT CARDS (all). CATERING. WIFI. OWNERS: Say “Hola” from Vicki to Indian Sunny & his CR wife Nohemy Neil. HOURS: Mon.-Thurs. 6:30-8:30pm. Fri.-Sat. 6:30am till clients leave. Sun. ?. DIRECTIONS: NEW LOCATION - In the Hotel America, 50 meters South of Central Park in Heredia, next to Fiesta Casino.
SIGLO XXI
VEGETARIAN Chinese restaurant.
LOCATION: San Jose (Sabana West/Oeste) - 300 meters west of POP'S ice cream -
La Mazorca
LOCATION: San Pedro - near the University of CR
Restaurante Vegetariano
LOCATION: San Pedro - near the University of CR
Mango Verde
LOCATION: Heredia (Downtown)
Have anyone to add? Info to change/enhance? E- me at CostaRicaResourceGuide@gmail.com
Saturday, May 16, 2009
Person with a Small Truck Available for Hauling within the Central Valley
I have an honest/reliable/on time (traffic permitting) American friend in Escazu that's going to start offering his small Suzuki truck (approximately 6’ x 5’ - the type where each side goes down) & hand cart for hauling/picking up things.
Gringo prices BUT, gringo level of service!
Contact Rob at 8-890-4732 / Imagine.bliss@yahoo.com with your details/needs.
(tell him Vicki referred ya)
Gringo prices BUT, gringo level of service!
Contact Rob at 8-890-4732 / Imagine.bliss@yahoo.com with your details/needs.
(tell him Vicki referred ya)
Sunday, May 3, 2009
FURNITURE - Places to find Furniture in COSTA RICA
MANY people that move to Costa Rica debate on whether to bring their furniture things with them or not. EVERY DAY I look around my home & I BLESS the day I made the decision to bring a container!! It only cost me $4,000 (I saved at least $1,000 driving a 24' U-haul to Miami, it was $2,000 on the Miami to CR leg & about $2,000 from Limon [the port], all taxes & delivery to my place in Pozos de Santa Ana) and I KNOW there's NO WAY I could have replaced my "things" for under $4,000!!! Costa Rican furniture (typically called "Sarchi Furniture") tends to be HEAVY wood furniture not real well known for comfort (I'm a "sprawler" - my livingroom has 3 twin beds with LOTS of pillows!! http://FountainsGuesthouse.com).
Below is a list of a few places I've found to locate furniture and things for the home. PLEASE e- me anything else you've found at CostaRicaResourceGuide@gmail.com
SITES WITH INFO ON VARIOUS MALLS:
http://newsletter.escazunews.com/index.php?pr=COMERCIOSHOPS
http://costa-rica-adventure-tour.com/html/malls_directory.html
ALYSS (I've seen people spell it Aliss or Allys)
Costa Rica doesn't have many "department stores" but Alyss is MY FAV!!! They have many COOL/funky/unique things from bedding to furniture for inside & outside, fountains to kitchen chachkee as well as clothing (downstairs) at decent prices and a GOOD SELECTION!! Every day of the week they have discounts on different types of items, too. Unique things I've found at Alyss - these really neat candle trees - a 3 1/2' metal shaped tree with 34 candle holders in it for just $16 each (in the states that would have been about $70+), sort of orange dishes with purple shiny stones in them (VERY festive!!), a multi-colored shower curtain & cool towels (including bright ORANGE ones!!), bright sheets (only one set as now I'm ordering them online & bringing them back on those trips though one day I'm going to try mailing them), rugs, etc., a bamboo room divider, rattan placemats & LOTS MORE!!). I've also found their things like kitchen chachkees like spatulas, serving spoons, etc. cheaper like I've found things overall there. THE BEST place I've found for the COOLEST Christmas decorations (which to me can make for FUN household decorative things year-round!!)
LOCATIONS:
Escazu - just south of MultiPlaza (where the old bowling alley used to be)
Real Cariari Mall (2-278-5917 / 2-278-5119) (the main highway to the airport)
Zapote
Multiplaza del Este
Curridabat
TerraMall - the radial that takes you to San Pedro.
ZEN DESIGNS
(http://ZenDesigns.com / isada@hotmail.com)
One of my FAVORITE STORES for everything from Furniture, Fountains (I’ve bought 2 there) to Decorative things. Mainly things with an Indonesian look. Still good prices overall.
HOURS: 9:30am-6:30pm
LOCATIONS: San Jose - ( 2-296-2480 / 2-296-2473 / 8-827-3433) - 50 mts South of McDonald’s in Sabana sur - in front of the side of Universal
Liberia - (2-668-1240 / 2-668-1239) - Local #7B & #12D. Solarium. Opposite the Daniel Oduber International Airport in Liberia.
ALTEA DESIGN
(http://AlteaDesign.com)
COOL Ultra Contemporary “stuff” for the house. LITERALLY one-stop shopping for everything you need to decorate a home - from furniture, dishes, towels, etc.!!
Escazu (San Rafael) (2-288 2009 / 2-228 3408 / 2-288-2014) - Across the street from Vivero Exotica just north of Plaza Rolex/CitiBank/McDonald's. HOURS: Daily 10am-7:30pm
TerraMall-Cartago (2-518-0450) - 2nd Floor. HOURS: 10am-8pm
San Sebastian-Circunvalacion (2-227-2882) - close to the Mas por Menos - 200mts. East of Hipermas. HOURS: 9am-7pm
Liberia (2-668-1255) -In front of Airport
CEMACO
(http://Cemaco.co.cr)
Not much furniture but a REALLY GOOD place for decorative household things, good style, wide array of kitchen items, bed & bath things, state of the art items such as new type pressure cookers, espresso makers, lemon zesters. FOUNTAINS here for $25-$35!!
Alajuela – De McDonald’s Tropicana – 475 mts. Sur/South – a Mano Isq. (2-443-1880 / 2-443-1780 / 2-443-3543). HOURS: Mon.-Fri. 10am-8pm. Sat. 9:30am-8pm. Sun. 10am-6:30pm
Escazu – MultiPlaza (2-201-6363 / 2-201-6262) – HOURS: Mon.-Sat. 10am-8pm. Sun. 10am-7pm
Pavas – De Canal 7 350 mts. Oeste/West – Carretera a Pavas Contiguo a Pali (2-296-3711). HOURS: Mon.-Fri. 10am-8pm. Sat. 9:30am-8pm. Sun. 10am-6:30pm
Zapote - De La Rotonda de La Garantias Sociales, 25 mts. Norte (2-280-2112 / 2-280-0710 / 280-0508 / 280-0608). HOURS: Mon.-Fri. 10am-8pm. Sat. 9:30am-8pm. Sun. 10am-6:30pm.
YAMUNI
(http://Yamuni.com)
1/2 decent small department store with a little furniture but mainly housewares, rugs, upholstery / fabric material
SAN JOSE (2-258-3337) – Sabana Park – Avenida 10 near the old gym just east of Sabana Park – the Gimnacio Nacional (get off at first bus stop and walk up 2 blocks).
SAN PEDRO near Mc Donalds of Curridabat.
LA ARTISTICA
(http://LaArtistica.net/index_eng.htm / 2-296-2590)
Some pretty expensive stuff but also a few good buys (especially if you pay by cash). The place is a lot bigger than it looks from the outside and inventory moves quickly. As close to Ikea as we have seen here but LOTS more $$$. Be sure to check out their outlet store Downtown. DELIVERY!
OUTLET - SAN JOSE - Downtown (2-223-5544) - HOURS: Mon.-Fri. 9am-6:30pm, Sat. 9:30am-6pm. DIRECTIONS: Avenida 2nd between Calles 7 & 9.
PAVAS/ROHRMOSER (2-296-2590) - HOURS: Mon.-Sat. 9:30am-7:30pm, Sun. 10am-6pm. DIRECTIONS: On the main road in Pavas, across the street from Octubre 54 & just East of Jiron mattress store, close to Cemaco (just West of Sabana Park, North of Escazu)
CURRIDABAT (2-272-8787) - HOURS: Mon.-Sat. 10am-6pm. DIRECTIONS: Diagonal to Hipermas.
WAREHOUSE - LIBERIA (2-668-1313) - HOURS: Mon.-Sat. 8am-5:30pm. DIRECTIONS: Calle 4 & 5
AKIRO
(http://GrupoAkiro.com / info@grupoakiro.com)
COOL Contemporary Furniture!!! Not lots of choices.
LOCATIONS:
SAN JOSE -Barrio California (2-223-8625 / 2-257-5665) - DIRECTIONS: Avenida 2nd - 50 mts West of KFC
SAN JOSE (Downtown/Paseo Colon) (2-234-8174 / 2-283-3243) - DIRECTIONS: Paseo Colon - 25 mts East of KFC (THANX Daniel with www.EscazuNews.com)
OCTUBRE 54
(http://octubre54.com/main-en.html / Contemporary things - 2-232-2956 / 2-296-1525 / Traditional things - 2-232-5638 / 2-232-9025)
More contemporary design with some traditional styles & some COOL things!! More expensive/$$. Some cool futons.
DIRECTIONS: Rohrmoser - On the main road in Pavas, across the street from LaArtistica, 100 meters West of Antojitos Mexican restaurant
SEARSON
(http://Searson.co.cr / 2-520-1112)
HOURS: Mon-Sat. 9:30am-6:30pm, Sun. 10am-4pm . DIRECTIONS: Sabana Sur, 300mts West of the CR Tennis Club.
VERSATIL
http://VersatilCR.com / 2-289-2524 / catalina@VersatilCR.com / polasua@gmail.com)
COOL contemporary wood designed furniture manufactured in Columbia. DIRECTIONS: Escazu (San Rafael) - Calle Vieja - in Plaza San Rafael #11 - in front of ICE. Home also to Henry's bar (4 blocks from Vicki's so if you're in the area, swing by - 8-378-6679)
IMPORTADOS ISA
(http://ImportadoraIsa.com)
LOCATIONS:
Escazu (2-2-289-5329 / impoisa@ImportadoraIsa.com) - Urbanización Los Anonos Casa #42
Rohrmoser (2-291-4943 / matahari@ImportadoraIsa.com) - la Tienda Mata Hari, on the main road in Pavas - in front of Antojitos Mexican restaurant.
Guanacaste (2-652-9005 / matahari_g@ImportadoraIsa.com) - Tienda Matahari, entre Tamarindo and Flamingo
Quepos - Pacífico Central, puede visitar nuestra tienda en la calle central de Quepos L´Aventura Multiboutique - in front of Hotel Kamuk.
http://publiboda.com/otros_paises/costa_rica/mueblerias
CHEAP STUFF
??
San Jose (Downtown) - In front of Mercado Borbon (one block north of Central Mercado)
Everything from furniture, futons (I found a full size futon with wood frame for around $150 [+ I think around $14 delivered]), office furniture, etc. though cheaper quality.
La Cueva - LOCATION: San Jose (Downtown) - Near the CocaCola Building
San Jose (Downtown) - Calle 10 between Avenidas 1 and 3 - A BUNCH of pawn shops within in a VERY DANGEROUS area so PLEASE bring a National with you & STAY AWARE 101% of the time!!! They have EVERYTHING from computers to jewelry, furniture, appliances, etc.!! REALLY CHEAP!!!
BEDROOMS
PICCOLO MONDO
(http://PiccoloMondoCR.com / 283-3435 / info@PiccoloMondoCR.com)
Bedroom furniture for Baby to big people
DIRECTIONS: Curridabat - 600 metros South & 50 mts. West of POPS in Centro Comercial Piazza Milano #2
SOFABEDS & FUTONS:
See my blurb at: http://LivingLifeInCostaRica.blogspot.com/2008/08/futons-sofabeds-cots-for-sale-in-costa.html
Below is a list of a few places I've found to locate furniture and things for the home. PLEASE e- me anything else you've found at CostaRicaResourceGuide@gmail.com
SITES WITH INFO ON VARIOUS MALLS:
http://newsletter.escazunews.com/index.php?pr=COMERCIOSHOPS
http://costa-rica-adventure-tour.com/html/malls_directory.html
ALYSS (I've seen people spell it Aliss or Allys)
Costa Rica doesn't have many "department stores" but Alyss is MY FAV!!! They have many COOL/funky/unique things from bedding to furniture for inside & outside, fountains to kitchen chachkee as well as clothing (downstairs) at decent prices and a GOOD SELECTION!! Every day of the week they have discounts on different types of items, too. Unique things I've found at Alyss - these really neat candle trees - a 3 1/2' metal shaped tree with 34 candle holders in it for just $16 each (in the states that would have been about $70+), sort of orange dishes with purple shiny stones in them (VERY festive!!), a multi-colored shower curtain & cool towels (including bright ORANGE ones!!), bright sheets (only one set as now I'm ordering them online & bringing them back on those trips though one day I'm going to try mailing them), rugs, etc., a bamboo room divider, rattan placemats & LOTS MORE!!). I've also found their things like kitchen chachkees like spatulas, serving spoons, etc. cheaper like I've found things overall there. THE BEST place I've found for the COOLEST Christmas decorations (which to me can make for FUN household decorative things year-round!!)
LOCATIONS:
Escazu - just south of MultiPlaza (where the old bowling alley used to be)
Real Cariari Mall (2-278-5917 / 2-278-5119) (the main highway to the airport)
Zapote
Multiplaza del Este
Curridabat
TerraMall - the radial that takes you to San Pedro.
ZEN DESIGNS
(http://ZenDesigns.com / isada@hotmail.com)
One of my FAVORITE STORES for everything from Furniture, Fountains (I’ve bought 2 there) to Decorative things. Mainly things with an Indonesian look. Still good prices overall.
HOURS: 9:30am-6:30pm
LOCATIONS: San Jose - ( 2-296-2480 / 2-296-2473 / 8-827-3433) - 50 mts South of McDonald’s in Sabana sur - in front of the side of Universal
Liberia - (2-668-1240 / 2-668-1239) - Local #7B & #12D. Solarium. Opposite the Daniel Oduber International Airport in Liberia.
ALTEA DESIGN
(http://AlteaDesign.com)
COOL Ultra Contemporary “stuff” for the house. LITERALLY one-stop shopping for everything you need to decorate a home - from furniture, dishes, towels, etc.!!
Escazu (San Rafael) (2-288 2009 / 2-228 3408 / 2-288-2014) - Across the street from Vivero Exotica just north of Plaza Rolex/CitiBank/McDonald's. HOURS: Daily 10am-7:30pm
TerraMall-Cartago (2-518-0450) - 2nd Floor. HOURS: 10am-8pm
San Sebastian-Circunvalacion (2-227-2882) - close to the Mas por Menos - 200mts. East of Hipermas. HOURS: 9am-7pm
Liberia (2-668-1255) -In front of Airport
CEMACO
(http://Cemaco.co.cr)
Not much furniture but a REALLY GOOD place for decorative household things, good style, wide array of kitchen items, bed & bath things, state of the art items such as new type pressure cookers, espresso makers, lemon zesters. FOUNTAINS here for $25-$35!!
Alajuela – De McDonald’s Tropicana – 475 mts. Sur/South – a Mano Isq. (2-443-1880 / 2-443-1780 / 2-443-3543). HOURS: Mon.-Fri. 10am-8pm. Sat. 9:30am-8pm. Sun. 10am-6:30pm
Escazu – MultiPlaza (2-201-6363 / 2-201-6262) – HOURS: Mon.-Sat. 10am-8pm. Sun. 10am-7pm
Pavas – De Canal 7 350 mts. Oeste/West – Carretera a Pavas Contiguo a Pali (2-296-3711). HOURS: Mon.-Fri. 10am-8pm. Sat. 9:30am-8pm. Sun. 10am-6:30pm
Zapote - De La Rotonda de La Garantias Sociales, 25 mts. Norte (2-280-2112 / 2-280-0710 / 280-0508 / 280-0608). HOURS: Mon.-Fri. 10am-8pm. Sat. 9:30am-8pm. Sun. 10am-6:30pm.
YAMUNI
(http://Yamuni.com)
1/2 decent small department store with a little furniture but mainly housewares, rugs, upholstery / fabric material
SAN JOSE (2-258-3337) – Sabana Park – Avenida 10 near the old gym just east of Sabana Park – the Gimnacio Nacional (get off at first bus stop and walk up 2 blocks).
SAN PEDRO near Mc Donalds of Curridabat.
LA ARTISTICA
(http://LaArtistica.net/index_eng.htm / 2-296-2590)
Some pretty expensive stuff but also a few good buys (especially if you pay by cash). The place is a lot bigger than it looks from the outside and inventory moves quickly. As close to Ikea as we have seen here but LOTS more $$$. Be sure to check out their outlet store Downtown. DELIVERY!
OUTLET - SAN JOSE - Downtown (2-223-5544) - HOURS: Mon.-Fri. 9am-6:30pm, Sat. 9:30am-6pm. DIRECTIONS: Avenida 2nd between Calles 7 & 9.
PAVAS/ROHRMOSER (2-296-2590) - HOURS: Mon.-Sat. 9:30am-7:30pm, Sun. 10am-6pm. DIRECTIONS: On the main road in Pavas, across the street from Octubre 54 & just East of Jiron mattress store, close to Cemaco (just West of Sabana Park, North of Escazu)
CURRIDABAT (2-272-8787) - HOURS: Mon.-Sat. 10am-6pm. DIRECTIONS: Diagonal to Hipermas.
WAREHOUSE - LIBERIA (2-668-1313) - HOURS: Mon.-Sat. 8am-5:30pm. DIRECTIONS: Calle 4 & 5
AKIRO
(http://GrupoAkiro.com / info@grupoakiro.com)
COOL Contemporary Furniture!!! Not lots of choices.
LOCATIONS:
SAN JOSE -Barrio California (2-223-8625 / 2-257-5665) - DIRECTIONS: Avenida 2nd - 50 mts West of KFC
SAN JOSE (Downtown/Paseo Colon) (2-234-8174 / 2-283-3243) - DIRECTIONS: Paseo Colon - 25 mts East of KFC (THANX Daniel with www.EscazuNews.com)
OCTUBRE 54
(http://octubre54.com/main-en.html / Contemporary things - 2-232-2956 / 2-296-1525 / Traditional things - 2-232-5638 / 2-232-9025)
More contemporary design with some traditional styles & some COOL things!! More expensive/$$. Some cool futons.
DIRECTIONS: Rohrmoser - On the main road in Pavas, across the street from LaArtistica, 100 meters West of Antojitos Mexican restaurant
SEARSON
(http://Searson.co.cr / 2-520-1112)
HOURS: Mon-Sat. 9:30am-6:30pm, Sun. 10am-4pm . DIRECTIONS: Sabana Sur, 300mts West of the CR Tennis Club.
VERSATIL
http://VersatilCR.com / 2-289-2524 / catalina@VersatilCR.com / polasua@gmail.com)
COOL contemporary wood designed furniture manufactured in Columbia. DIRECTIONS: Escazu (San Rafael) - Calle Vieja - in Plaza San Rafael #11 - in front of ICE. Home also to Henry's bar (4 blocks from Vicki's so if you're in the area, swing by - 8-378-6679)
IMPORTADOS ISA
(http://ImportadoraIsa.com)
LOCATIONS:
Escazu (2-2-289-5329 / impoisa@ImportadoraIsa.com) - Urbanización Los Anonos Casa #42
Rohrmoser (2-291-4943 / matahari@ImportadoraIsa.com) - la Tienda Mata Hari, on the main road in Pavas - in front of Antojitos Mexican restaurant.
Guanacaste (2-652-9005 / matahari_g@ImportadoraIsa.com) - Tienda Matahari, entre Tamarindo and Flamingo
Quepos - Pacífico Central, puede visitar nuestra tienda en la calle central de Quepos L´Aventura Multiboutique - in front of Hotel Kamuk.
http://publiboda.com/otros_paises/costa_rica/mueblerias
CHEAP STUFF
??
San Jose (Downtown) - In front of Mercado Borbon (one block north of Central Mercado)
Everything from furniture, futons (I found a full size futon with wood frame for around $150 [+ I think around $14 delivered]), office furniture, etc. though cheaper quality.
La Cueva - LOCATION: San Jose (Downtown) - Near the CocaCola Building
San Jose (Downtown) - Calle 10 between Avenidas 1 and 3 - A BUNCH of pawn shops within in a VERY DANGEROUS area so PLEASE bring a National with you & STAY AWARE 101% of the time!!! They have EVERYTHING from computers to jewelry, furniture, appliances, etc.!! REALLY CHEAP!!!
BEDROOMS
PICCOLO MONDO
(http://PiccoloMondoCR.com / 283-3435 / info@PiccoloMondoCR.com)
Bedroom furniture for Baby to big people
DIRECTIONS: Curridabat - 600 metros South & 50 mts. West of POPS in Centro Comercial Piazza Milano #2
SOFABEDS & FUTONS:
See my blurb at: http://LivingLifeInCostaRica.blogspot.com/2008/08/futons-sofabeds-cots-for-sale-in-costa.html
Saturday, May 2, 2009
TAXI DRIVERS - English Speaking- in the Central Valley, COSTA RICA
Here the start of my list of TAXI DRIVERS that I have used (more coming soon). Most of these speak some amount of English & the one’s that don’t, MY experience is they are at least pretty trustworthy.
This will be constantly evolving:
http://LivingLifeInCostaRica.blogspot.com/2009/05/taxi-drivers-english-speaking-in.html
VICKI'S TOP GUYS
Carlos - 8-811-6436 - Good English. He's also a Forest Ranger so a GREAT Tour Guide!!! Tends to work earlier in the day but can be available later with advanced notice. Has access to a Legal Tourism Van (Escazu Centro)
Oscar Fallas - 8-342-6169 - GOOD ENGLISH, GREAT PERSON/VERY PERSONABLE PLUS he's also an EXCELLENT LICENSED Tour Guide!!! - HOURS: Daily 6am-8pm (MultiPlaza)
Mario - 8-389-1571 / 8-849-8526 - he understands a fair amount of English usually but doesn't speak it much but he works LOTS of hours including on Sunday usually & if he's not available or running behind, he's quite good about finding you someone (RARE!!!!) - HOURS: Daily - LOTS (Escazu Centro)
ALONSO - 8-880-3019 - Now that he has his own taxi, he’s available MOST hours (mainly afternoon/evening) - He’s ESPECIALLY my NIGHT GUY!! He hangs all over.
ESCAZU CENTRO (if I'm just going around this area, I call them & usually Dispatch [below])
Johnny - 8-380-1247 - Good English - HOURS: 8am-8pm (Escazu Centro)
Michael - 8-316-2111 - Good English - HOURS: Tues.-Sat. 1-10pm, Sun. 6am-10pm (Escazu Centro)
Oliver - 8-375-6624 - pretty good English - HOURS: Mon.-Sat. 5am-1pm (Escazu Centro)
Henry Cordoba - 8-307-2692 - VAN - understands a fair amount of English & speaks some. HOURS: Daily usually 8am-7pm (at least) (Escazu Centro)
Jeffrey - 8-827-2008 - Good English - HOURS: Sat. 7am-10pm (Escazu Centro)
Martin - 8-387-7825 - (Spanish only but VERY available & LOTS of hours) (Escazu Centro)
Max Mora - 8-390-2050 - Good English - HOURS: Mon.-Sat. 6am (Escazu Centro)
Sigifredo - 8-372-7428 - Pretty decent English - HOURS: 8am-6pm (Escazu Centro)
Joaquin Herrera - 8-828-5398 - 4x4 - HOURS: Sun.-Fri. (NO Sat.) (Escazu Centro)
Jesus - 8-391-9460 - Some English - HOURS: Daily 6am-9pm (Escazu Centro)
DISPATCH: TAXI'S ESCAZU (Escazu-Centro) - 2-289-0826 / 2-289-0026 - HOURS: Daily 6am-10pm
MULTIPLAZA / INTERCONTINENTAL
Jason Valverde - 8-312-4492 - GOOD ENGLISH & GREAT PERSON!!! HOURS: Mon.-Sat. 6am-4pm (MultiPlaza)
Juan Jo Monge - 8-301-6886 - pretty good English - HOURS: Daily 6am-4pm (InterContinental-Frank Chicas)
Wagner - 8-865-8695 - Good English - HOURS: Daily 6am-4pm (InterContinental)
Manuel Suarz - 8-855-4127 - Good English - HOURS: Daily 4pm-6am (InterContinental)
Rafael - 8-876-5510 - pretty good English - HOURS: Daily 6am-4pm (InterContinental-Frank Chicas)
Carlos Ramirez - 8-375-5671 - pretty good English - HOURS: Daily 4pm-6am (InterContinental-Frank Chicas)
William - 8-868-3071 - Understands a fair amount of English but doesn’t speak it - HOURS: Mon.-Sat. 4-11PM+-ish (MultiPlaza)
Abel - 8-369-6557 - HOURS: 5am-10pm-ish (MultiPlaza)
Juan Carlos Garcia - 8-827-9036 - He speaks a fair amount of English and is really NICE - HOURS: 6a-8pm (MultiPlaza)
Manuel Suarez - 8-855-4127 - HOURS: Daily 4pm-6am (MultiPlaza)
Fabio - 8-829-0176 - HOURS: Mon.-Sat. 3pm-3am (MultiPlaza)
Heiner - 8-394-4379 - A bit of English - HOURS: Daily 6am-11pm
Hidalgo (or Lisi) - 8-368-5430 - Ok English - HOURS: Mon.-Sat. 6am-6pm
Walter Herrera - 8-837-1251 - English - HOURS: 6am-2pm
Francisco Ruiz - 8-371-0944 - Good English - HOURS: noon-MIDNIGHT (InterContinental)
DISPATCH: Cinco Estrellas (5-Star Group) 2-228-3159 is at the InterContinental Hotel – 24/7 BUT - no one speaks English there.
OUTSIDE OF ESCAZU:
James Francis Brown - 8-375-5558 - REALLY GOOD English and a NICE person - HOURS: Mon.-Sat. 8am-5pm. Sun. 1pm+ (Caribbean bus terminal)
Jose - 8-823-7312 - REALLY GOOD English - HOURS: Tues.-Sun. 3pm-2am (Desemperados)
Bernie Gomez - 8-847-3747 - Understands some English but is afraid to speak it/let you know - HOURS: 3AM-2pm - Mon.-Sat. (Desemperados)
Wilber Pacheco - 8-8-381-0326 - Good English - HOURS: Daily 7am-6pm (San Jose)
Elias - 8-849-9272 - Good English - HOURS: Daily 7am-9pm-ish (Downtown San Jose)
Manuel Acuna - 8-388-1475 - Good English - HOURS: Mon.-Fri. 5am-8pm
Marco Jimenez - 8-385-6002 - He speaks English and a little French - HOURS: Daily MID-noon (varies) (San Jose)
Alvaro - 8-310-3131 - English - HOURS: Daily 3pm-4AM (Tibas)
Erick Campos - 8-377-4704 - English - HOURS: Mon.-Sat. 7am-8pm (Allajuela)
Jorge Segra - 8-386-3400 - Speaks Good English - HOURS: Daily 11am-MIDNIGHT (Carriari Mall area)
Manrique - 8-834-1331 (Carriari Mall area)
Wilder Arte - 8-305-7869 - NO English but LATE NIGHT - HOURS: Fri.-Wed. (NO Thurs.) 3pm-2am (San Jose)
ALWAYS MAKE SURE THEY TURN THE MARIA/METER ON!!!!!!!!!!!
Dates/Hours subject to change & MOST are available other hours by advanced appointment .
NEED A VAN TO TOUR AROUND? PICK SOMEONE UP AT THE AIRPORT?
Call me - 8-378-6679
PLEASE TELL EVERYONE “Vicki” in Casa Naranja or Casa de Vicki in Escazu referred ya!!!
@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@
Do you have anyone to add?? E- me at CostaRicaResourceGuide@gmail.com
This will be constantly evolving:
http://LivingLifeInCostaRica.blogspot.com/2009/05/taxi-drivers-english-speaking-in.html
VICKI'S TOP GUYS
Carlos - 8-811-6436 - Good English. He's also a Forest Ranger so a GREAT Tour Guide!!! Tends to work earlier in the day but can be available later with advanced notice. Has access to a Legal Tourism Van (Escazu Centro)
Oscar Fallas - 8-342-6169 - GOOD ENGLISH, GREAT PERSON/VERY PERSONABLE PLUS he's also an EXCELLENT LICENSED Tour Guide!!! - HOURS: Daily 6am-8pm (MultiPlaza)
Mario - 8-389-1571 / 8-849-8526 - he understands a fair amount of English usually but doesn't speak it much but he works LOTS of hours including on Sunday usually & if he's not available or running behind, he's quite good about finding you someone (RARE!!!!) - HOURS: Daily - LOTS (Escazu Centro)
ALONSO - 8-880-3019 - Now that he has his own taxi, he’s available MOST hours (mainly afternoon/evening) - He’s ESPECIALLY my NIGHT GUY!! He hangs all over.
ESCAZU CENTRO (if I'm just going around this area, I call them & usually Dispatch [below])
Johnny - 8-380-1247 - Good English - HOURS: 8am-8pm (Escazu Centro)
Michael - 8-316-2111 - Good English - HOURS: Tues.-Sat. 1-10pm, Sun. 6am-10pm (Escazu Centro)
Oliver - 8-375-6624 - pretty good English - HOURS: Mon.-Sat. 5am-1pm (Escazu Centro)
Henry Cordoba - 8-307-2692 - VAN - understands a fair amount of English & speaks some. HOURS: Daily usually 8am-7pm (at least) (Escazu Centro)
Jeffrey - 8-827-2008 - Good English - HOURS: Sat. 7am-10pm (Escazu Centro)
Martin - 8-387-7825 - (Spanish only but VERY available & LOTS of hours) (Escazu Centro)
Max Mora - 8-390-2050 - Good English - HOURS: Mon.-Sat. 6am (Escazu Centro)
Sigifredo - 8-372-7428 - Pretty decent English - HOURS: 8am-6pm (Escazu Centro)
Joaquin Herrera - 8-828-5398 - 4x4 - HOURS: Sun.-Fri. (NO Sat.) (Escazu Centro)
Jesus - 8-391-9460 - Some English - HOURS: Daily 6am-9pm (Escazu Centro)
DISPATCH: TAXI'S ESCAZU (Escazu-Centro) - 2-289-0826 / 2-289-0026 - HOURS: Daily 6am-10pm
MULTIPLAZA / INTERCONTINENTAL
Jason Valverde - 8-312-4492 - GOOD ENGLISH & GREAT PERSON!!! HOURS: Mon.-Sat. 6am-4pm (MultiPlaza)
Juan Jo Monge - 8-301-6886 - pretty good English - HOURS: Daily 6am-4pm (InterContinental-Frank Chicas)
Wagner - 8-865-8695 - Good English - HOURS: Daily 6am-4pm (InterContinental)
Manuel Suarz - 8-855-4127 - Good English - HOURS: Daily 4pm-6am (InterContinental)
Rafael - 8-876-5510 - pretty good English - HOURS: Daily 6am-4pm (InterContinental-Frank Chicas)
Carlos Ramirez - 8-375-5671 - pretty good English - HOURS: Daily 4pm-6am (InterContinental-Frank Chicas)
William - 8-868-3071 - Understands a fair amount of English but doesn’t speak it - HOURS: Mon.-Sat. 4-11PM+-ish (MultiPlaza)
Abel - 8-369-6557 - HOURS: 5am-10pm-ish (MultiPlaza)
Juan Carlos Garcia - 8-827-9036 - He speaks a fair amount of English and is really NICE - HOURS: 6a-8pm (MultiPlaza)
Manuel Suarez - 8-855-4127 - HOURS: Daily 4pm-6am (MultiPlaza)
Fabio - 8-829-0176 - HOURS: Mon.-Sat. 3pm-3am (MultiPlaza)
Heiner - 8-394-4379 - A bit of English - HOURS: Daily 6am-11pm
Hidalgo (or Lisi) - 8-368-5430 - Ok English - HOURS: Mon.-Sat. 6am-6pm
Walter Herrera - 8-837-1251 - English - HOURS: 6am-2pm
Francisco Ruiz - 8-371-0944 - Good English - HOURS: noon-MIDNIGHT (InterContinental)
DISPATCH: Cinco Estrellas (5-Star Group) 2-228-3159 is at the InterContinental Hotel – 24/7 BUT - no one speaks English there.
OUTSIDE OF ESCAZU:
James Francis Brown - 8-375-5558 - REALLY GOOD English and a NICE person - HOURS: Mon.-Sat. 8am-5pm. Sun. 1pm+ (Caribbean bus terminal)
Jose - 8-823-7312 - REALLY GOOD English - HOURS: Tues.-Sun. 3pm-2am (Desemperados)
Bernie Gomez - 8-847-3747 - Understands some English but is afraid to speak it/let you know - HOURS: 3AM-2pm - Mon.-Sat. (Desemperados)
Wilber Pacheco - 8-8-381-0326 - Good English - HOURS: Daily 7am-6pm (San Jose)
Elias - 8-849-9272 - Good English - HOURS: Daily 7am-9pm-ish (Downtown San Jose)
Manuel Acuna - 8-388-1475 - Good English - HOURS: Mon.-Fri. 5am-8pm
Marco Jimenez - 8-385-6002 - He speaks English and a little French - HOURS: Daily MID-noon (varies) (San Jose)
Alvaro - 8-310-3131 - English - HOURS: Daily 3pm-4AM (Tibas)
Erick Campos - 8-377-4704 - English - HOURS: Mon.-Sat. 7am-8pm (Allajuela)
Jorge Segra - 8-386-3400 - Speaks Good English - HOURS: Daily 11am-MIDNIGHT (Carriari Mall area)
Manrique - 8-834-1331 (Carriari Mall area)
Wilder Arte - 8-305-7869 - NO English but LATE NIGHT - HOURS: Fri.-Wed. (NO Thurs.) 3pm-2am (San Jose)
ALWAYS MAKE SURE THEY TURN THE MARIA/METER ON!!!!!!!!!!!
Dates/Hours subject to change & MOST are available other hours by advanced appointment .
NEED A VAN TO TOUR AROUND? PICK SOMEONE UP AT THE AIRPORT?
Call me - 8-378-6679
PLEASE TELL EVERYONE “Vicki” in Casa Naranja or Casa de Vicki in Escazu referred ya!!!
@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@
Do you have anyone to add?? E- me at CostaRicaResourceGuide@gmail.com
Saturday, April 11, 2009
BOOK STORES (Libreria’s) with Books in English in Costa Rica - New, Used, Trade, Lending Library
BOOK STORES (Libreria’s) with English Books in Costa Rica are few and far between!
Below are a list of BOOK STORES (Libreria's) - New, Used, Trade & Lending Library’s! If you know of any others (or more details/changes/closures), PLEASE pass them on to me at: CostaRicaResourceGuide@gmail.com
The MAIN book store CHAIN in Costa Rica is:
LIBRERIA INTERNATIONAL OFFICE - 800-542-7374 / http://LibreriaInternacional.com
ESCAZU -
LIBRERIA INTERNATIONAL (2-588-1817) - Plaza Atlantis (where Auto Mercado is - 200 mts. South/up the hill from the Scotia Split). HOURS: Mon.-Sat. 9am-8pm, Sun. 9am-7pm.
LIBRERIA INTERNATIONAL - MultiPlaza - Cuarta Etapa, 2nd floor (2-201-8320) - HOURS: Daily 10am-10pm
Private english book library off the old road between Escazu and Sabana Sur. They have over 3500 books mostly paperbacks. I think it is 5000c to join and then you can borrow 2 books for 2 weeks. If you return them on time, there after, can then borrow up to 10 books for 30 days. (Patrick Hawkins" patrickhawkins@yahoo.com crl - no one seems to have more details)
SIGUEMA BOOKSTORE & COFFEE SHOP (2-228-7920 / http://Siguema.org) - A NEW nice feel coffee shop with books for sale - heavy with religious books in Spanish, some Spiritual, in time some in English & some cd’s. WIFI. HOURS: LOCATION: San Rafael - across from Plaza Rolex (Citibank) - about 150 mts. north of McDonald’s.
BOOK SWAP / TRADE:
Oasis Coffee Shop/Restaurant
Cafe des Artistes
House Of Self Empowerment (swap for fiction. Membership LENDING LIBRARY for Self Empowerment / Spiritual / Metaphysical / Health/Healing / Parenting/Self-Parenting / Workshop Notes / Prosperity/Business / Costa Rica / Learn Spanish / Movies / Music / Games & MORE!!
SAN JOSE -
MORA BOOKS (8-383-8385 / moralab2003@yahoo.co.uk) - NEW LOCATION: It’s expanded & more organized! Calle 5, between Avenida 5 & 7. Across the street & 75 mts. north of the Holiday Inn. OWNER: Darren Mora (tell him Vicki sent you!). HOURS: Mon.-Sat. 10am-6pm - They say they have the LARGEST SELECTION of Used Books in English (& some in Spanish), some CDs & DVDs. If he’s REALLY interested, he often has the best prices on buying books (especially on cash). YOU BUY BOOKS: TRADE POLICY: You get 1/2 the value of what he’s going to trade for (depending on how MUCH he wants the book). He often sells books for 60% of new price. 25% of new price. Buy for cash - 5-10% of full price (depending)
7th STREET BOOKS (256-8251) - pretty good but has to charge expensive prices because of import costs. Barrio La Soledad - 50 m Norte del Hotel Balmoral (between Avenidas Central and 1) - HOURS: 9am-6pm Mon.-Sat., Sun. 10am-5pm.
lehman´s on the plaza in San José right behind the Gran Hotel; I am always surprised that more gringos do not know about
Lehman's, it is a great source for all kinds of books, both Spanish of course, and English-language. You might also try Mora's right around the corner from Lehman's. (Tom Stafford" tgstaff07@yahoo.com)
SJ Centro - LIBRERIA INTERNATIONAL - Avenida Central - 75 mts West of de la Plaza de la Cultura (2-257-2563) - HOURS: Mon.-Sat. 9am-6:30pm, Sun. Closed
Plaza Cemaco - LIBRERIA INTERNATIONAL - 100 mts. North of the Rotonda de las Garantias Sociales (2-280-8065) - HOURS: Mon.-Sat. 10am-8pm & Sun. 10am-6:30pm
La Vereda - TerraMall - LIBRERIA INTERNATIONAL - by Spoons & Rosti Pollos (2-278-1522) - HOURS: Mon.-Sun. 10am-10pm
PLAZA REAL CARIARI - LIBRERIA INTERNATIONAL - 2nd Floor - HOURS: Mon.-Sat. 10am-8pm, Sun. 10am-7pm
SAN PEDRO-BARRIO DENT -
LIBRERIA INTERNATIONAL - 300 mts. West of Taco Bell (2-253-9553) - HOURS: Mon.-Sat. 9am-7pm, Sun. 9am-5pm
SANTA ANA (POZOS)
LIBRERIA INTERNATIONAL - (2-203-3590) LOCATION: Just North of Auto Mercado on the road heading towards the airport (the Santa Ana/Airport exit off the Pista). HOURS: Mon.-Sat. 9am-8pm, Sun. 9am-7pm.
ALAJUELA
GOOD LIGHT (GOODLIGHT) BOOKS
(2-430-4083 / http://GoodLightBooks.com / info@GoodLightBooks.com) - 100 meters south and 70 meters east of the Alajuela Post Office (just north of the cathedral. On the street that runs behind the church, walk one block north and then a half-block east. The bookstore is on the north side of the street. When you are walking that one block north from behind the church, if you continue walking north for another half block beyond the street on which the bookstore is located, you will come to Jalapeños soda on the right side of the street). If you go to the end of that block, you'll see the post office on the corner on the left. You've gone too far, so turn around and retrace your steps for one block). OWNER: Larry
This is a very gringo-friendly little place (they speak excellent English). Quite a store, with a great selection of English-language used books on all topics and a very large VCR rental section. BUYS BOOKS books. Serves espresso & pastry on a nice patio in the front.
LIBRERIA INTERNATIONAL - Mall Internacional (2-442-3800) - HOURS: Mon.-Sat. 10am-8pm, Sun. 10am-7pm
ROHRMOSER -
LIBRERIA INTERNATIONAL - 200 Mts. Este/East of Plaza Mayor (2-290-3331) - HOURS: Mon.-Sat. 9am-7pm, Sun. closed.
GRECIA -
Bookman's (formerly Escazu)
HEREDIA -
Brian's Books
LIBRERIA INTERNATIONAL - Paseo de las Flores - 2nd Floor near Main Entrance (2-237-2887) - HOURS: Mon.-Sat. 10am-9pm, Sun. 10am-8pm
Cliff (268-3641 / helpmeouthere@gmail.com, inewsmaster@gmail.com, satnamyohorengekyo@yahoo.com.sg) - has LOTS of books for sale in San Isidro
SAN RAMON
SOLO BUENO INTERNET CAFE (8-340 8853) LOCATION: 1 block north of the gas station entering San Ramon, right hand side. Another version - as you come into downtown San Ramon, on the right side of the street, from the Auto Pista.
We have over 3,000 books in English, ranging from paperback novels to lengthy hard-bound tome having to do with the Civil War, and a lot of stuff in between. While I can't guarantee that we will have what you want, we offer free coffee and a very pleasant, non-crowded environment in which to peruse your desires. Solo Bueno is 50 ms. north of the first stop light in San Ramon., so it's easy to find. It has sort of become the gringo hangout offering real estate, bamboo furniture, local art and a whole hell of a lot of other things, especially good conversation. Our host and hostess, Jose and Joanna Pelleya, are still wazndering around Europe but are schedued to return on the 15th. (rdresslar? or T.G.Tom Stafford" tgstaff07@yahoo.com)
9/6/06 - Stan Sainsbury, who lives near the Cariari Mall has hundreds of really good books for sale (He´s moving to Colombia.) Give him a call at 293 1089 If he can´t provide what you need, I might be able to help you. My phone is 446-3840. I´m not moving - just downsizing. (Ron Tucker" rontucker2001@yahoo.ca CRL )
LIBRARY (MEMBERSHIP)
LEXICON LIBRARY - San Jose (http://LexiconLibrary.com / 2-291-4383 / 2-444-2363-Edelgard) - MEMBERSHIP: $10 (no borrowing fees). HOURS: Wed. & Fri. 9am-4pm
LEXION LIBRARY (http://LexiconLibrary.com / 2-291-4383 / info@LexiconLibrary.com). LOCATION: http://www.LexiconLibrary.com/map.jpg From San Jose - From Pops La Sabana, going West, take the first Right street will curve around, and then take the 2nd Right. We are the next to last house on the Right. Lexicon House. From Escazu - on the Old Road from Escazu to San Jose - behind the Medical College
MARK TWAIN LIBRARY The English-language library near San Pablo is the Mark Twain Library in the Centro Cultural Costarricense Nortamericano, the same place that houses the Eugine O'Neil Theater, on Calle 37 north of Ave. Central (Paseo Rubin Dairo), Bario Escalante. I believe membership is $45.00 a year with a deposit of $25.00, overdue books are c500 per day.
BOOK EXCHANGE SWAP
Oasis Coffee Shop/Restaurant - Escazu
Cafe des Artistes - Escazu
House Of Self Empowerment - Escazu (swap for fiction. Membership LENDING LIBRARY for Self Empowerment / Spiritual / Metaphysical / Health/Healing / Parenting/Self-Parenting / Workshop Notes / Prosperity/Business / Costa Rica / Learn Spanish / Movies / Music / Games & MORE!!
FREE loan of unabridged recorded books. There are no strings attached. It is completely FREE. Our large selection includes fiction, non-fiction, mysteries, biographies, travel and recent best sellers. Recorded books are great for car trips, exercise walkers, beach viewers and especially for anyone with poor vision, blind or recovering from an eye operation. For more information phone 2-232-2731 any weekday.
eBOOKS
Emilia shared this on http://crl-eboard.info/Shopping.htm
She downloads books from different sources and find that if you shop around online you can get a better deal than buying the print copies. The Sony Reader Digital Book is quite easy to use and reads Adobe(R) PDF, RTF, TXT, BBeB and Microsoft Word formats so its a lot less limited than other e-readers when it comes to your options. As for places where you can download books, there are many options.
http://planetpdf.com/free_pdf_ebooks.asp / http://witguides.com / http://free-ebooks.net / http://freebookspot.org / http://free-ebooks-download.org
GARAGE SALES
Garage Sales are few & far between. Find notices in La Nacion, Tico Times (on Fri.), http://groups.yahoo.com/group/CostaRicaLiving Friends. Scrounging
Below are a list of BOOK STORES (Libreria's) - New, Used, Trade & Lending Library’s! If you know of any others (or more details/changes/closures), PLEASE pass them on to me at: CostaRicaResourceGuide@gmail.com
The MAIN book store CHAIN in Costa Rica is:
LIBRERIA INTERNATIONAL OFFICE - 800-542-7374 / http://LibreriaInternacional.com
ESCAZU -
LIBRERIA INTERNATIONAL (2-588-1817) - Plaza Atlantis (where Auto Mercado is - 200 mts. South/up the hill from the Scotia Split). HOURS: Mon.-Sat. 9am-8pm, Sun. 9am-7pm.
LIBRERIA INTERNATIONAL - MultiPlaza - Cuarta Etapa, 2nd floor (2-201-8320) - HOURS: Daily 10am-10pm
Private english book library off the old road between Escazu and Sabana Sur. They have over 3500 books mostly paperbacks. I think it is 5000c to join and then you can borrow 2 books for 2 weeks. If you return them on time, there after, can then borrow up to 10 books for 30 days. (Patrick Hawkins" patrickhawkins@yahoo.com crl - no one seems to have more details)
SIGUEMA BOOKSTORE & COFFEE SHOP (2-228-7920 / http://Siguema.org) - A NEW nice feel coffee shop with books for sale - heavy with religious books in Spanish, some Spiritual, in time some in English & some cd’s. WIFI. HOURS: LOCATION: San Rafael - across from Plaza Rolex (Citibank) - about 150 mts. north of McDonald’s.
BOOK SWAP / TRADE:
Oasis Coffee Shop/Restaurant
Cafe des Artistes
House Of Self Empowerment (swap for fiction. Membership LENDING LIBRARY for Self Empowerment / Spiritual / Metaphysical / Health/Healing / Parenting/Self-Parenting / Workshop Notes / Prosperity/Business / Costa Rica / Learn Spanish / Movies / Music / Games & MORE!!
SAN JOSE -
MORA BOOKS (8-383-8385 / moralab2003@yahoo.co.uk) - NEW LOCATION: It’s expanded & more organized! Calle 5, between Avenida 5 & 7. Across the street & 75 mts. north of the Holiday Inn. OWNER: Darren Mora (tell him Vicki sent you!). HOURS: Mon.-Sat. 10am-6pm - They say they have the LARGEST SELECTION of Used Books in English (& some in Spanish), some CDs & DVDs. If he’s REALLY interested, he often has the best prices on buying books (especially on cash). YOU BUY BOOKS: TRADE POLICY: You get 1/2 the value of what he’s going to trade for (depending on how MUCH he wants the book). He often sells books for 60% of new price. 25% of new price. Buy for cash - 5-10% of full price (depending)
7th STREET BOOKS (256-8251) - pretty good but has to charge expensive prices because of import costs. Barrio La Soledad - 50 m Norte del Hotel Balmoral (between Avenidas Central and 1) - HOURS: 9am-6pm Mon.-Sat., Sun. 10am-5pm.
lehman´s on the plaza in San José right behind the Gran Hotel; I am always surprised that more gringos do not know about
Lehman's, it is a great source for all kinds of books, both Spanish of course, and English-language. You might also try Mora's right around the corner from Lehman's. (Tom Stafford" tgstaff07@yahoo.com)
SJ Centro - LIBRERIA INTERNATIONAL - Avenida Central - 75 mts West of de la Plaza de la Cultura (2-257-2563) - HOURS: Mon.-Sat. 9am-6:30pm, Sun. Closed
Plaza Cemaco - LIBRERIA INTERNATIONAL - 100 mts. North of the Rotonda de las Garantias Sociales (2-280-8065) - HOURS: Mon.-Sat. 10am-8pm & Sun. 10am-6:30pm
La Vereda - TerraMall - LIBRERIA INTERNATIONAL - by Spoons & Rosti Pollos (2-278-1522) - HOURS: Mon.-Sun. 10am-10pm
PLAZA REAL CARIARI - LIBRERIA INTERNATIONAL - 2nd Floor - HOURS: Mon.-Sat. 10am-8pm, Sun. 10am-7pm
SAN PEDRO-BARRIO DENT -
LIBRERIA INTERNATIONAL - 300 mts. West of Taco Bell (2-253-9553) - HOURS: Mon.-Sat. 9am-7pm, Sun. 9am-5pm
SANTA ANA (POZOS)
LIBRERIA INTERNATIONAL - (2-203-3590) LOCATION: Just North of Auto Mercado on the road heading towards the airport (the Santa Ana/Airport exit off the Pista). HOURS: Mon.-Sat. 9am-8pm, Sun. 9am-7pm.
ALAJUELA
GOOD LIGHT (GOODLIGHT) BOOKS
(2-430-4083 / http://GoodLightBooks.com / info@GoodLightBooks.com) - 100 meters south and 70 meters east of the Alajuela Post Office (just north of the cathedral. On the street that runs behind the church, walk one block north and then a half-block east. The bookstore is on the north side of the street. When you are walking that one block north from behind the church, if you continue walking north for another half block beyond the street on which the bookstore is located, you will come to Jalapeños soda on the right side of the street). If you go to the end of that block, you'll see the post office on the corner on the left. You've gone too far, so turn around and retrace your steps for one block). OWNER: Larry
This is a very gringo-friendly little place (they speak excellent English). Quite a store, with a great selection of English-language used books on all topics and a very large VCR rental section. BUYS BOOKS books. Serves espresso & pastry on a nice patio in the front.
LIBRERIA INTERNATIONAL - Mall Internacional (2-442-3800) - HOURS: Mon.-Sat. 10am-8pm, Sun. 10am-7pm
ROHRMOSER -
LIBRERIA INTERNATIONAL - 200 Mts. Este/East of Plaza Mayor (2-290-3331) - HOURS: Mon.-Sat. 9am-7pm, Sun. closed.
GRECIA -
Bookman's (formerly Escazu)
HEREDIA -
Brian's Books
LIBRERIA INTERNATIONAL - Paseo de las Flores - 2nd Floor near Main Entrance (2-237-2887) - HOURS: Mon.-Sat. 10am-9pm, Sun. 10am-8pm
Cliff (268-3641 / helpmeouthere@gmail.com, inewsmaster@gmail.com, satnamyohorengekyo@yahoo.com.sg) - has LOTS of books for sale in San Isidro
SAN RAMON
SOLO BUENO INTERNET CAFE (8-340 8853) LOCATION: 1 block north of the gas station entering San Ramon, right hand side. Another version - as you come into downtown San Ramon, on the right side of the street, from the Auto Pista.
We have over 3,000 books in English, ranging from paperback novels to lengthy hard-bound tome having to do with the Civil War, and a lot of stuff in between. While I can't guarantee that we will have what you want, we offer free coffee and a very pleasant, non-crowded environment in which to peruse your desires. Solo Bueno is 50 ms. north of the first stop light in San Ramon., so it's easy to find. It has sort of become the gringo hangout offering real estate, bamboo furniture, local art and a whole hell of a lot of other things, especially good conversation. Our host and hostess, Jose and Joanna Pelleya, are still wazndering around Europe but are schedued to return on the 15th. (rdresslar? or T.G.Tom Stafford" tgstaff07@yahoo.com)
9/6/06 - Stan Sainsbury, who lives near the Cariari Mall has hundreds of really good books for sale (He´s moving to Colombia.) Give him a call at 293 1089 If he can´t provide what you need, I might be able to help you. My phone is 446-3840. I´m not moving - just downsizing. (Ron Tucker" rontucker2001@yahoo.ca CRL )
LIBRARY (MEMBERSHIP)
LEXICON LIBRARY - San Jose (http://LexiconLibrary.com / 2-291-4383 / 2-444-2363-Edelgard) - MEMBERSHIP: $10 (no borrowing fees). HOURS: Wed. & Fri. 9am-4pm
LEXION LIBRARY (http://LexiconLibrary.com / 2-291-4383 / info@LexiconLibrary.com). LOCATION: http://www.LexiconLibrary.com/map.jpg From San Jose - From Pops La Sabana, going West, take the first Right street will curve around, and then take the 2nd Right. We are the next to last house on the Right. Lexicon House. From Escazu - on the Old Road from Escazu to San Jose - behind the Medical College
MARK TWAIN LIBRARY The English-language library near San Pablo is the Mark Twain Library in the Centro Cultural Costarricense Nortamericano, the same place that houses the Eugine O'Neil Theater, on Calle 37 north of Ave. Central (Paseo Rubin Dairo), Bario Escalante. I believe membership is $45.00 a year with a deposit of $25.00, overdue books are c500 per day.
BOOK EXCHANGE SWAP
Oasis Coffee Shop/Restaurant - Escazu
Cafe des Artistes - Escazu
House Of Self Empowerment - Escazu (swap for fiction. Membership LENDING LIBRARY for Self Empowerment / Spiritual / Metaphysical / Health/Healing / Parenting/Self-Parenting / Workshop Notes / Prosperity/Business / Costa Rica / Learn Spanish / Movies / Music / Games & MORE!!
FREE loan of unabridged recorded books. There are no strings attached. It is completely FREE. Our large selection includes fiction, non-fiction, mysteries, biographies, travel and recent best sellers. Recorded books are great for car trips, exercise walkers, beach viewers and especially for anyone with poor vision, blind or recovering from an eye operation. For more information phone 2-232-2731 any weekday.
eBOOKS
Emilia shared this on http://crl-eboard.info/Shopping.htm
She downloads books from different sources and find that if you shop around online you can get a better deal than buying the print copies. The Sony Reader Digital Book is quite easy to use and reads Adobe(R) PDF, RTF, TXT, BBeB and Microsoft Word formats so its a lot less limited than other e-readers when it comes to your options. As for places where you can download books, there are many options.
http://planetpdf.com/free_pdf_ebooks.asp / http://witguides.com / http://free-ebooks.net / http://freebookspot.org / http://free-ebooks-download.org
GARAGE SALES
Garage Sales are few & far between. Find notices in La Nacion, Tico Times (on Fri.), http://groups.yahoo.com/group/CostaRicaLiving Friends. Scrounging
Wednesday, January 14, 2009
Do you live in Costa Rica and need to go back to the United States and need to stay connected with your peeps in the States via cell phone?
Going back to the United States & need to stay connected with your peeps in the states?
Renting a cell phone in the U.S. usually means 2 year contracts, expensive plans & if you get a Pre-Paid Phone - they can be EXPENSIVE . . . BUT - Net10 has a WONDERFUL plan that makes calls just 10¢ a minute & some of them INCLUDE a phone for just $30!!!
You can buy a brand new PrePaid Phone Card which comes WITH a Cell Phone it INCLUDES 300 minutes of airtime (at 10¢/minute withIN the U.S. )!!! The priced depends on which model you get but it ranges from just $30-$60 with http://Net10.com
YOU designate where you want the phone number to be for (by area code)!
NO need for credit cards or additional purchases (other than additional minutes), NO activation fees, NO Annual Contracts, NO monthly charges, NO credit checks, NO PINs or cards to buy.
INTERNATIONAL CALLS
You can make international calls to many countries (unfortunatelycurrently not Costa Rica) for just 15¢/minute (the regular 10¢ call charge + 5¢). Their Net10 International Neighbors plan gives you up to 3 Canadian or Mexican phone #s that you can give family/friends in those countries to call you on your Net10 phone! http://AurisTechnology.com/net10ild/index.asp?site=faq_neighbors#2
Want to stay in touch with your family/friends in Costa Rica (or other places not included)? They can get a U.S. number (of your choice) for just $18 for 3 months with http://Skype.com & you can call them on it. They'll have to be online to make/receive calls (hence they must have high-speed internet access).
As is normal in the states YOU ARE charged for ALL INCOMING calls as well as outgoing.
I get their most basic/cheapest model (which I LOVE as it's REALLY compact & has a blue screen!) which is the BEST VALUE because it also INCLUDES a FREE Accessory Kit with car charger, power charger, headset & case (note that a headset is CRUCIAL in many states) for JUST $30 (probably + tax)!!!
http://Net10-store.com/bpdirect/net10/PhoneDetails.do?action=view&productVariantExtensionId=3538792
WHERE CAN YOU FIND A NET10 CARD/PHONE:
You can pre-order one online at http://Net10.com to be delivered (for free) within 3 days to you in the States (this is good if you need to forward any calls from here to the states when you activate) OR at:
Walmart, Walgreens, Target, Radio Shack, KMart, Family Dollars, Dollar General, Circuit City
They have other cell phone models including 2 that are a VGA Camera Phone & one with Bluetooth® Wireless Technology for just $40 & $60 at:
http://net10-store.com/bpdirect/net10/Start.do?action=view&market=GSM5AT&zip=90035&AID=&VID=&VC=&SAHCID=&COM=&locale=en&siteType=TR&gotoPhonelist=true
Note: The pre-paid card is ONLY GOOD FOR 60 days & the cheapest new card you can get is $30 (so I ended up not using/throwing away a BUNCH of $ that I didn't use) & to reactivate it costs more money than buying a new one.
I JUST noticed they also had an Easy Minute plan with 400 Easy Minutes for $40/month (this would have worked best for me but I didn't know about it) along with a 250 (just $25/month for 250 minutes) & 150 plan (just $15/month for 150 minutes) & a Net10 Unlimited plan for $80 for the month with unlimited local/long distance & text messaging & NO ANNUAL CONTRACT!!!
Chat away!!
Vicki
Renting a cell phone in the U.S. usually means 2 year contracts, expensive plans & if you get a Pre-Paid Phone - they can be EXPENSIVE . . . BUT - Net10 has a WONDERFUL plan that makes calls just 10¢ a minute & some of them INCLUDE a phone for just $30!!!
You can buy a brand new PrePaid Phone Card which comes WITH a Cell Phone it INCLUDES 300 minutes of airtime (at 10¢/minute withIN the U.S. )!!! The priced depends on which model you get but it ranges from just $30-$60 with http://Net10.com
YOU designate where you want the phone number to be for (by area code)!
NO need for credit cards or additional purchases (other than additional minutes), NO activation fees, NO Annual Contracts, NO monthly charges, NO credit checks, NO PINs or cards to buy.
INTERNATIONAL CALLS
You can make international calls to many countries (unfortunatelycurrently not Costa Rica) for just 15¢/minute (the regular 10¢ call charge + 5¢). Their Net10 International Neighbors plan gives you up to 3 Canadian or Mexican phone #s that you can give family/friends in those countries to call you on your Net10 phone! http://AurisTechnology.com/net10ild/index.asp?site=faq_neighbors#2
Want to stay in touch with your family/friends in Costa Rica (or other places not included)? They can get a U.S. number (of your choice) for just $18 for 3 months with http://Skype.com & you can call them on it. They'll have to be online to make/receive calls (hence they must have high-speed internet access).
As is normal in the states YOU ARE charged for ALL INCOMING calls as well as outgoing.
I get their most basic/cheapest model (which I LOVE as it's REALLY compact & has a blue screen!) which is the BEST VALUE because it also INCLUDES a FREE Accessory Kit with car charger, power charger, headset & case (note that a headset is CRUCIAL in many states) for JUST $30 (probably + tax)!!!
http://Net10-store.com/bpdirect/net10/PhoneDetails.do?action=view&productVariantExtensionId=3538792
WHERE CAN YOU FIND A NET10 CARD/PHONE:
You can pre-order one online at http://Net10.com to be delivered (for free) within 3 days to you in the States (this is good if you need to forward any calls from here to the states when you activate) OR at:
Walmart, Walgreens, Target, Radio Shack, KMart, Family Dollars, Dollar General, Circuit City
They have other cell phone models including 2 that are a VGA Camera Phone & one with Bluetooth® Wireless Technology for just $40 & $60 at:
http://net10-store.com/bpdirect/net10/Start.do?action=view&market=GSM5AT&zip=90035&AID=&VID=&VC=&SAHCID=&COM=&locale=en&siteType=TR&gotoPhonelist=true
Note: The pre-paid card is ONLY GOOD FOR 60 days & the cheapest new card you can get is $30 (so I ended up not using/throwing away a BUNCH of $ that I didn't use) & to reactivate it costs more money than buying a new one.
I JUST noticed they also had an Easy Minute plan with 400 Easy Minutes for $40/month (this would have worked best for me but I didn't know about it) along with a 250 (just $25/month for 250 minutes) & 150 plan (just $15/month for 150 minutes) & a Net10 Unlimited plan for $80 for the month with unlimited local/long distance & text messaging & NO ANNUAL CONTRACT!!!
Chat away!!
Vicki
Sunday, January 11, 2009
HELP FOR THE PEOPLE EFFECTED BY THE JANUARY 8, 2009 EARTHQUAKE IN COSTA RICA
HELP FOR THE PEOPLE EFFECTED BY THE JAN. 8, 2009 EARTHQUAKE IN COSTA RICA
On Thurs., Jan. 8, 2009, Costa Rica was hit with a 6.1 (6.2 by some accords) EARTHQUAKE!
Being from California & having experienced most of the ones they’ve had since ’64 I KNOW what earthquakes are like but WOW!!! Though it was just a 6.2, I've never BEEN SOOOO CLOSE to the epicenter (we were about 20 miles) so it felt MUCH STRONGER & I’ve had the MOST aftershocks I've ever felt also!!! (I have a new sense of respect for those even closer!!).
We’re ok on the SouthWest end of the Central Valley (Escazu – 7 minutes West of San Jose) with only a couple glasses breaking but Alajuela (near the airport) wasn’t as lucky & even more so, the area near some of Costa Rica’s major attractions – La Paz Waterfalls Park ESPECIALLY was damaged & the roads to Poas Volcano had serious damage. Practically a whole village was eaten alive by a the ground literally opening up.
I’ve creating a site so you can understand it but MOST IMPORTANT, in hopes that you will help out in WHATEVER way you can!!!
.
Wednesday, December 17, 2008
Hiring a LEGAL Driver/Tour Guide VS an ILLEGAL Pirata VS Driving Oneself While Visiting/Touring in Costa Rica
Hiring a LEGAL Driver/Tour Guide VS an ILLEGAL Pirata VS Driving Oneself While Visiting/Touring in Costa Rica -
Points to Consider
As a person that's been in the travel biz for over 15 years (as a Destination Specialist [NOT in Costa Rica], a Tour Operator, travel agent & a travel writer), I've been semi-surprised/VERY disappointed at how FEW people look at the BIG picture when it comes to travel arrangements (until they come home & look at their credit card bill at how much they spent!!!) as well as MOST people have NO clue on what all goes into expenses, etc. with having and maintaining a biz hence where pricing comes from.
Unfortunately I've ALSO found that MOST people don't understand the difference/advantages/points of the BIG PICTURE of hiring a LEGAL guide/driver vs. a pirata/ILLEGAL one let alone driving oneself throughout most of Costa Rica.
First there are the EXPENSES TO THE LEGAL GUIDE/DRIVER/BIZ OWNER:
First there's the BIG expense in buying a SPECIAL/LEGAL Tourism Van (my driver said his van was around $30,000 [this seems REALLY cheap to me for a new 15 passenger van what it is so perhaps that's a communications misunderstanding] to say nothing of how long it takes from when it arrives to when you can finally get it on the streets with all the legal channels you have to go through when you're not making money [I know one driver it took 3 months!!]) which MUST be certified by the MOPT/Transporte Publico who provides them a special permit for transportation of tourists or students or for special trips not otherwise permitted.
Then there’s Insurance - a special MUCH MORE EXPENSIVE insurance to cover them for transporting paying customers. That’s approximately $230-$300 a MONTH for a legal average tourist van (there's NO WAY I would even THINK of hiring a tour guide to drive me that didn't have that - NOT in Costa Rica!! I've known of toooooo many people that have had accidents or worse - KILLED fools running out in the streets [I've known of 2 gringos that has happened to & NEITHER was the gringo's fault but they went through MESSY legal hassles]).
If your driver doesn't have insurance - what will happen to you if they have an accident?
These LEGAL vans MUST show some sort of contract with a MAJOR hotel or tour company - a sort of consortium. These can EASILY cost $25,000-$30,000 plus $100++/month per vehicle they have in their fleet.
Of course they also get to pay their own & their employees Secudro & INS, etc.
Gas (I believe in Costa Rica it's around $4-$5 a GALLON for gas). Driving around in traffic & the hills of Costa Rica eat up LOTS more gas than your open freeway back at home. Round trip from San Jose to Manuel Antonio eats up around $60.
If they have a website (what every PROFESSIONAL tour operator should have) they have the cost to create & maintain it, an answering machine & a phone line (& if you're REALLY professional wanting clients in Canada or the States - an 800# which is NOT cheap in Costa Rica). $$$$
Then they have uniforms (or at least they should if they're TRULY professional in my book!!), other supplies like binoculars, ice chests & things that to me a GOOD driver/guide SHOULD have if they're into GOOD Customer Service.
If you want someone to speak English - they tend to get paid more as they've invested more into their growth (hense your ease) & they of course can/SHOULD command more money as it costs the driver time/money to learn it to assist his clients properly. MOST tourists I've encountered in my exploring around Costa Rica are requiring someone to speak GOOD English to help make their vacation more enjoyable/EASY!!
If YOU choose to have them drive you just one way, they still have the time it takes them to drive back that MUST be incorporated into the price since they can't pick up another fare.
To say nothing about how strenuous driving is in MUCH of Costa Rica (ESPECIALLY for the driver who 101% of the time MUST be ULTRA alert watching for ALL the potholes that spring out of no where [even on the Pan-American Highway at times] let alone for the consumer!!). After this past trip from San Jose to Arenal (along the "back road" - not the PanAm) & then from Arenal to Tamarindo - though I've done this trip 3 times now in the past 2 years with family & friends - THIS trip I got such a new sense of RESPECT for ANYONE that drives professionally!!!
Of course with the overall BAD roads around the country - a driver also gets to pay for ALL their repairs & they are frequent here!! They go through LOTS more shock absorbers, tires, etc. Most are stick shift hence would also go through more
I know there have been NUMEROUS times I've hired a driver for 3-10 day trips that they were with us for WELL more than 8 hours in a day.
Plus other legal fees/dues.
As a CONSUMER - these are CRUCIAL points to consider for me:
#1 - If you hire an ILLEGAL driver/pirata/pirate/guide & the police stop you to check their papers/documentation (NOT that uncommon - ESPECIALLY these days with the war going on with legal/red taxi drivers stopping traffic dead in the street for HOURS in downtown San Jose on more & more of a regular basis!!)!!) & that pirata/ILLEGAL driver can't produce the proper papers, things they CAN & DO DO are write a nice ticket to the pirata, take the car plates which make it illegal for the driver to drive &/or impound the vehicle & you're caca out of luck on the streets with ALL your bags!!! Sure hope this doesn't happen to you in MUCH of San Jose (I've been in taxi's/vans NUMEROUS times where they stopped & checked).
#2!!!! The EASE!!!!
I hired a driver last month to do a family trip & I tell ya - driving around Costa Rica can be VERY strenuous - even to the consumer!! After a LONG/BUMPY/pothole infested/curvy drive from Arenal to Tamarindo - though I was quite "fiscally challenged" at the time - I decided to spend the $100 to fly back from Tamarindo to San Jose rather than that the $35 5+ hour bus!! I've decided that MOST of the time when I'm traveling around Costa Rica from now on I will probably fly!! For me it's worth the extra $$ to have the sanity/ease on my bod!!
A tour guide/driver can assist you in planning your itinerary and they know the ins & outs of Costa Rica. They should know the good tours & hopefully the more unique/better ones instead of the standard touristy ones.
MISC. POINT:
Most LEGAL Tourism Vans are more spacious for you (trust me, with all the driving around, you WILL want to spread/sprawl out! There's less space of course if you have lots of luggage though luggage can go on the top). That's a BIG difference between renting one of the small CRAMPED 4x4's (those cheaper deal ones are VERY cramped & often can't fit much - especially if you have luggage. We originally saw the one we had reserved on our first trip & with just 3 gals & luggage, we would have been VERY cramped. NOT how I want to spend my vacation!! You???) or regular car I've seen that can only fit 4 people though not enough space for luggage for 4 people (especially for gals like me that bring the kitchen sink!!).
On the line of renting cars in Costa Rica - FYI - MOST I've seen are stick shift (how DO they drive those here with all the hills & potholes!!! That alone is a strenious time grabber!!) & automatics are few & far between & usually LOTS more $$$. They do NOT have power steering AND most pirata taxi's I've been in don't have good shocks (MEGA "ouch" for those of us more "well endowed" gals!!).
What are you going to do if your luggage is stolen or something? Can your pirata help you to file a police report, etc.? Are they going to go to the police if they're illegal to say they had you in their car & someone broke into that car - NOT!!!
Most drivers I know often have some clue if bridges/roads are down/being worked on - potentially causing HOURS & HOURS of delays & frustration (trust me, this IS an issue here BIG TIME)!!
NOT ALL piratas have "clean records"/are honest/good people (MANY that are piratas have some sort of "record" where they couldn't become a legal driver for a REASON!! These could include drivers into drugs, drunks, etc. (of course there are MANY GOOD/honest piratas also).
I ONLY use Frank Chicas' ENJOYING COSTA RICA TOURS for myself & my guests as they're some of THE MOST HELPFUL people I've EVER MET!!!! That's GREAT Costumer Service!!! I treat others WELL & I EXPECTED to be treated the same or BETTER!! I EXPECT a LOT - especially if I'm paying for it!!
Since the government doesn't monitor them - what are you going to do if you have a less than scrupulous driver/guide? If your things get stolen, etc.? Do you think the cops are going to have any sympathy for you let alone help you??
Of course if you're going from say, San Jose to Jaco, driving can be a breeze.
Because of the roads around Costa Rica as well as all the activities most people do here - you SERIOUSLY might want to take out Trip Cancellation/Interruption/Medical Insurance - just in case!!! I've had to use mine twice so far!! (I personally use http://AccessAmerica.com [WAYYYY COOL!! I hadn't been on their site in awhile & I JUST noticed they now give Hurricane coverage PLUS an Expanded plan/coverage for Business-related covered reasons for TC & I insurance!!!!])
So, if a driver charging $100/day or $15/hour for shorter trips (& I can tell you - I've seen MANY people email a guide/driver saying they want to hire him for X amount of days & then tie the driver up even up to that day with their indecision on what they want to do or using them for less hours than they originally committed to. Meanwhile he's waiting around PROFESSIONAL for this client hence loose $$$ [to say nothing of possibly other clients]). A SMART business person/guide/driver will get a 50% deposit (which means you REALLY want to do research on your driver before sending him $$) so he doesn't get screwed by the inconsiderate customer (trust me - there are PLENTY of those here!!).
After looking at the big picture is your driver REALLY making a lot of money at the end of the day?
CLOSING POINTS:
When I'm on vacation I go to ENJOY & RELAX!! I don't need extra stress/frustration (as the roads in Costa Rica are [of course depending on where you're visiting]).
Hey - I've been a typical control freak gal ALL my life (I'm still working on that & am getting better but have a LONG way to go) that in the past ESPECIALLY HAD to be in control of the wheel - UNTIL I visited Costa Rica my first trip!! Now that I've discovered how CHEAP a driver/guide is (compared to MOST other destinations OUTSIDE of the U.S. where I've hired them for clients) - $100 or so a day ($15/hour - all depending on the distance/time) is the BEST investment I can see in MY sanity/ease & ENJOYMENT of traveling around Costa Rica!!
(FYI - I've hired Frank Chicas with ENJOYING COSTA RICA TOURS now OVER a dozen times in the past 3 years for bigger trips from 1-ways to Puerto Viejo to NUMEROUS trips around Costa Rica as well as MANY MANY small trips within an hour of my home in the Central Valley. His rates are what other LEGAL companies charge BUT the service I've experienced has always better than the feedback I've received on other people's trips).
We ALL have different desires/needs/experiences - I've just listed points I've encountered/my beliefs &/or feedback I've received from MANY other tourists (you KNOW how I LOVE to ask questions!!)!!
Bottom line is only YOU can determine what type of vacation/situations you're seeking in life!! I chose EASE & FUN for me!!! You??
If you want contact info for Frank Chicas with ENJOYING COSTA RICA TOURS, e- me at CostaRicaResourceGuide@gmail.com or call me at 8-378-6679.
ENJOY LIFE!!!
Vicki
Points to Consider
As a person that's been in the travel biz for over 15 years (as a Destination Specialist [NOT in Costa Rica], a Tour Operator, travel agent & a travel writer), I've been semi-surprised/VERY disappointed at how FEW people look at the BIG picture when it comes to travel arrangements (until they come home & look at their credit card bill at how much they spent!!!) as well as MOST people have NO clue on what all goes into expenses, etc. with having and maintaining a biz hence where pricing comes from.
Unfortunately I've ALSO found that MOST people don't understand the difference/advantages/points of the BIG PICTURE of hiring a LEGAL guide/driver vs. a pirata/ILLEGAL one let alone driving oneself throughout most of Costa Rica.
First there are the EXPENSES TO THE LEGAL GUIDE/DRIVER/BIZ OWNER:
First there's the BIG expense in buying a SPECIAL/LEGAL Tourism Van (my driver said his van was around $30,000 [this seems REALLY cheap to me for a new 15 passenger van what it is so perhaps that's a communications misunderstanding] to say nothing of how long it takes from when it arrives to when you can finally get it on the streets with all the legal channels you have to go through when you're not making money [I know one driver it took 3 months!!]) which MUST be certified by the MOPT/Transporte Publico who provides them a special permit for transportation of tourists or students or for special trips not otherwise permitted.
Then there’s Insurance - a special MUCH MORE EXPENSIVE insurance to cover them for transporting paying customers. That’s approximately $230-$300 a MONTH for a legal average tourist van (there's NO WAY I would even THINK of hiring a tour guide to drive me that didn't have that - NOT in Costa Rica!! I've known of toooooo many people that have had accidents or worse - KILLED fools running out in the streets [I've known of 2 gringos that has happened to & NEITHER was the gringo's fault but they went through MESSY legal hassles]).
If your driver doesn't have insurance - what will happen to you if they have an accident?
These LEGAL vans MUST show some sort of contract with a MAJOR hotel or tour company - a sort of consortium. These can EASILY cost $25,000-$30,000 plus $100++/month per vehicle they have in their fleet.
Of course they also get to pay their own & their employees Secudro & INS, etc.
Gas (I believe in Costa Rica it's around $4-$5 a GALLON for gas). Driving around in traffic & the hills of Costa Rica eat up LOTS more gas than your open freeway back at home. Round trip from San Jose to Manuel Antonio eats up around $60.
If they have a website (what every PROFESSIONAL tour operator should have) they have the cost to create & maintain it, an answering machine & a phone line (& if you're REALLY professional wanting clients in Canada or the States - an 800# which is NOT cheap in Costa Rica). $$$$
Then they have uniforms (or at least they should if they're TRULY professional in my book!!), other supplies like binoculars, ice chests & things that to me a GOOD driver/guide SHOULD have if they're into GOOD Customer Service.
If you want someone to speak English - they tend to get paid more as they've invested more into their growth (hense your ease) & they of course can/SHOULD command more money as it costs the driver time/money to learn it to assist his clients properly. MOST tourists I've encountered in my exploring around Costa Rica are requiring someone to speak GOOD English to help make their vacation more enjoyable/EASY!!
If YOU choose to have them drive you just one way, they still have the time it takes them to drive back that MUST be incorporated into the price since they can't pick up another fare.
To say nothing about how strenuous driving is in MUCH of Costa Rica (ESPECIALLY for the driver who 101% of the time MUST be ULTRA alert watching for ALL the potholes that spring out of no where [even on the Pan-American Highway at times] let alone for the consumer!!). After this past trip from San Jose to Arenal (along the "back road" - not the PanAm) & then from Arenal to Tamarindo - though I've done this trip 3 times now in the past 2 years with family & friends - THIS trip I got such a new sense of RESPECT for ANYONE that drives professionally!!!
Of course with the overall BAD roads around the country - a driver also gets to pay for ALL their repairs & they are frequent here!! They go through LOTS more shock absorbers, tires, etc. Most are stick shift hence would also go through more
I know there have been NUMEROUS times I've hired a driver for 3-10 day trips that they were with us for WELL more than 8 hours in a day.
Plus other legal fees/dues.
As a CONSUMER - these are CRUCIAL points to consider for me:
#1 - If you hire an ILLEGAL driver/pirata/pirate/guide & the police stop you to check their papers/documentation (NOT that uncommon - ESPECIALLY these days with the war going on with legal/red taxi drivers stopping traffic dead in the street for HOURS in downtown San Jose on more & more of a regular basis!!)!!) & that pirata/ILLEGAL driver can't produce the proper papers, things they CAN & DO DO are write a nice ticket to the pirata, take the car plates which make it illegal for the driver to drive &/or impound the vehicle & you're caca out of luck on the streets with ALL your bags!!! Sure hope this doesn't happen to you in MUCH of San Jose (I've been in taxi's/vans NUMEROUS times where they stopped & checked).
#2!!!! The EASE!!!!
I hired a driver last month to do a family trip & I tell ya - driving around Costa Rica can be VERY strenuous - even to the consumer!! After a LONG/BUMPY/pothole infested/curvy drive from Arenal to Tamarindo - though I was quite "fiscally challenged" at the time - I decided to spend the $100 to fly back from Tamarindo to San Jose rather than that the $35 5+ hour bus!! I've decided that MOST of the time when I'm traveling around Costa Rica from now on I will probably fly!! For me it's worth the extra $$ to have the sanity/ease on my bod!!
A tour guide/driver can assist you in planning your itinerary and they know the ins & outs of Costa Rica. They should know the good tours & hopefully the more unique/better ones instead of the standard touristy ones.
MISC. POINT:
Most LEGAL Tourism Vans are more spacious for you (trust me, with all the driving around, you WILL want to spread/sprawl out! There's less space of course if you have lots of luggage though luggage can go on the top). That's a BIG difference between renting one of the small CRAMPED 4x4's (those cheaper deal ones are VERY cramped & often can't fit much - especially if you have luggage. We originally saw the one we had reserved on our first trip & with just 3 gals & luggage, we would have been VERY cramped. NOT how I want to spend my vacation!! You???) or regular car I've seen that can only fit 4 people though not enough space for luggage for 4 people (especially for gals like me that bring the kitchen sink!!).
On the line of renting cars in Costa Rica - FYI - MOST I've seen are stick shift (how DO they drive those here with all the hills & potholes!!! That alone is a strenious time grabber!!) & automatics are few & far between & usually LOTS more $$$. They do NOT have power steering AND most pirata taxi's I've been in don't have good shocks (MEGA "ouch" for those of us more "well endowed" gals!!).
What are you going to do if your luggage is stolen or something? Can your pirata help you to file a police report, etc.? Are they going to go to the police if they're illegal to say they had you in their car & someone broke into that car - NOT!!!
Most drivers I know often have some clue if bridges/roads are down/being worked on - potentially causing HOURS & HOURS of delays & frustration (trust me, this IS an issue here BIG TIME)!!
NOT ALL piratas have "clean records"/are honest/good people (MANY that are piratas have some sort of "record" where they couldn't become a legal driver for a REASON!! These could include drivers into drugs, drunks, etc. (of course there are MANY GOOD/honest piratas also).
I ONLY use Frank Chicas' ENJOYING COSTA RICA TOURS for myself & my guests as they're some of THE MOST HELPFUL people I've EVER MET!!!! That's GREAT Costumer Service!!! I treat others WELL & I EXPECTED to be treated the same or BETTER!! I EXPECT a LOT - especially if I'm paying for it!!
Since the government doesn't monitor them - what are you going to do if you have a less than scrupulous driver/guide? If your things get stolen, etc.? Do you think the cops are going to have any sympathy for you let alone help you??
Of course if you're going from say, San Jose to Jaco, driving can be a breeze.
Because of the roads around Costa Rica as well as all the activities most people do here - you SERIOUSLY might want to take out Trip Cancellation/Interruption/Medical Insurance - just in case!!! I've had to use mine twice so far!! (I personally use http://AccessAmerica.com [WAYYYY COOL!! I hadn't been on their site in awhile & I JUST noticed they now give Hurricane coverage PLUS an Expanded plan/coverage for Business-related covered reasons for TC & I insurance!!!!])
So, if a driver charging $100/day or $15/hour for shorter trips (& I can tell you - I've seen MANY people email a guide/driver saying they want to hire him for X amount of days & then tie the driver up even up to that day with their indecision on what they want to do or using them for less hours than they originally committed to. Meanwhile he's waiting around PROFESSIONAL for this client hence loose $$$ [to say nothing of possibly other clients]). A SMART business person/guide/driver will get a 50% deposit (which means you REALLY want to do research on your driver before sending him $$) so he doesn't get screwed by the inconsiderate customer (trust me - there are PLENTY of those here!!).
After looking at the big picture is your driver REALLY making a lot of money at the end of the day?
CLOSING POINTS:
When I'm on vacation I go to ENJOY & RELAX!! I don't need extra stress/frustration (as the roads in Costa Rica are [of course depending on where you're visiting]).
Hey - I've been a typical control freak gal ALL my life (I'm still working on that & am getting better but have a LONG way to go) that in the past ESPECIALLY HAD to be in control of the wheel - UNTIL I visited Costa Rica my first trip!! Now that I've discovered how CHEAP a driver/guide is (compared to MOST other destinations OUTSIDE of the U.S. where I've hired them for clients) - $100 or so a day ($15/hour - all depending on the distance/time) is the BEST investment I can see in MY sanity/ease & ENJOYMENT of traveling around Costa Rica!!
(FYI - I've hired Frank Chicas with ENJOYING COSTA RICA TOURS now OVER a dozen times in the past 3 years for bigger trips from 1-ways to Puerto Viejo to NUMEROUS trips around Costa Rica as well as MANY MANY small trips within an hour of my home in the Central Valley. His rates are what other LEGAL companies charge BUT the service I've experienced has always better than the feedback I've received on other people's trips).
We ALL have different desires/needs/experiences - I've just listed points I've encountered/my beliefs &/or feedback I've received from MANY other tourists (you KNOW how I LOVE to ask questions!!)!!
Bottom line is only YOU can determine what type of vacation/situations you're seeking in life!! I chose EASE & FUN for me!!! You??
If you want contact info for Frank Chicas with ENJOYING COSTA RICA TOURS, e- me at CostaRicaResourceGuide@gmail.com or call me at 8-378-6679.
ENJOY LIFE!!!
Vicki
Tuesday, December 16, 2008
GREAT website showing you Costa Rica Banks U.S. Dollar Rate of Exchange for the Day
I just found this GREAT website showing the comparison of Costa Rica Banks U.S. Dollar Rate of Exchange for the Day:
http://indicadoreseconomicos.bccr.fi.cr/IndicadoresEconomicos/Cuadros/frmConsultaTCVentanilla.aspx
Vicki
http://indicadoreseconomicos.bccr.fi.cr/IndicadoresEconomicos/Cuadros/frmConsultaTCVentanilla.aspx
Vicki
Monday, December 15, 2008
LAUNDRY SERVICES / LAVANDERIA - Coin Operated, Self Service Washing Machines & Commercial Laundry in Costa Rica
LAUNDRY SERVICES / LAVANDERIA IN COSTA RICA
There aren't many places I've found in Costa Rica with COIN OPERATED / SELF SERVICE MACHINES - where you can go in & do your own laundry. I've posed this question on numerous message boards as well as trying to find anyone that could take my laundry to in case Goddess forbid, something happens to my washer/dryer in my guest house but so far, I haven't found many options & Dry Cleaners are out of the picture for me as they are often wanting to charge by the PIECE!!
If you know of any such places, please e- me at CostaRicaResourceGuide@gmail.com
ESCAZU
LAVANDERIA STAR CLEANERS
LOCATION: Centro Escazu in Plaza Real (home to Sushi Goyi).
CONTACT: 2-228-7508 / 8-306-9124. OWNER: Maritza Valenzuela
HOURS: Mon.-Sat. 8am-6pm.
PRICE: 1,000-c/Kilo.
CURRIDABAT - I heard there's a Laundromat in Plaza Cristal.
AQUAMATIC LAVANDERIA-
ALAJUELA-Mall Internacional (2-443-2555)
ALAJUELA-Centro (2-443-0485)
CARTAGO-TerraMall (2-278-4189)
CARTAGO-Metrocentro (2-591-5073)
CURRIDABAT-Plaza del Sol (2-253-4468)
ESCAZU (2-201-6126) - LOCATION: MultiPlaza
JACO (2-643-2083)
MORAVIA (2-235-9174)
PAVAS (2-291-2847)
QUEPOS (2-777-0972) - 50 mts. South of Banco Nacional - Self-Service Wash 950-c, Self-Service Dry 950-c, Pickup-1100-c/kilo. HOURS: Mon.-Sat. 7am-12:30pm & 1:30-5pm.
SABANILLA (2-283-7844)
SAN PEDRO-Mall San Pedro (2- 283-4540)
SAN PEDRO-NovaCentro (2-225-0659)
SAN JOSE-Avenida Central (2-256-6961)
SAN JOSE-Centro Comercial del Sur (2- 227-4316)
SAN JOSE-Plaza de la Cultura (2-258-1100)
SAN SEBASTIAN (2-286-1026)
TRES RIOS-MultiPlaza Este (2-283-2134)
JACO - Lavanderia Puro Blanco (2-643-1025) - on the main drag, toward the south end of town.
Aquamatic Lavanderia (2-643-2083) - 150 yards further south.
QUEPOS-Central Market - Lavanderia Yara & Aquamatic Lavanderia.
LARGE / COMMERCIAL LAUNDRY SERVICE
MEDICO LUX
LARGE WASHING JOBS like for medical offices, hotels & restaurants. Businesses that desire a sterile environments. NO personal laundry unless it’s LARGE quantity. Their machines can hold up to 60 kilos (it can fit a person in it!!) so they can do Comforters, Blankets & Pillows++!
Rainy/moldy season is over - time to do some early Spring Cleaning!!!
They also RENT Medical Clothes (blood proof) & Sterilized Medical Packages (sheets, gown+ [so you don’t have to throw away/waste!]) - 8,500-c/package.
DELIVERY included.
CONTACT: Nelson Kent (8-323-0793 / BabyFaceKent10@hotmail.com) - he’s a REAL sweetie with LOTS of energy/PASSION for what he does & speaks pretty good English
LOCATION: Hatillo Centro - behind the clinic Salon Nunez in Alajuelita?
HOURS: Mon.-Fri. 7am-3pm (later by appointment)
PRICE: Washing, sterilizing, drying & folding & roundtrip delivery - starts at 500-c/kilo.
Vicki
PARTY SUPPLY RENTALS / EQUIPMENT in Costa Rica (including Inflateable Games)
PARTY SUPPLY RENTALS/EQUIPMENT
(Tables, Glassware, Flatware, Dishes, Chairs, Tents, Serving & Chafing Dishes,
Chocolate Fountains, Inflatable Bounces / Games, Hot Dog Machines, Cotton Candy Machines, Popcorn Machines, Snow Cone Machines+++)
(Tables, Glassware, Flatware, Dishes, Chairs, Tents, Serving & Chafing Dishes,
Chocolate Fountains, Inflatable Bounces / Games, Hot Dog Machines, Cotton Candy Machines, Popcorn Machines, Snow Cone Machines+++)
ESCAZU
ALQUILERES EIFFEL
(http://AlquileresEiffel.com)
Escazu (2-228-3100 / Ventasescazu@AlquileresEiffel.com) - LOCATION: Centro Comercial Los Anonos
Curridabat (2-280-9392 / VentasCurridabat@AlquileresEiffel.com) - LOCATION: 900 mts South / 25 mts East of McDonald’s
Heredia (2-237-6607 / VentasHeredia@AlquileresEiffel.com) - LOCATION: 900 mts. West of Hipermas
(They seem to have the largest range of supplies plus they have LOTS of BIG blow up things also (Eiffel Games)!!! when your order arrives, MAKE SURE you’re getting EVERYTHING you’ve signed up/paid for!!!)
FIESTIKAS
(2-249-4616 / 8-357-7430 / http://Fiestikas.com / info@Fiestikas.com)
Rentals of inflatable play gyms/bounces, popcorn machines, cotton candy machines, hot dogs, snow cone machines & iced drinks - geared towards Kids Parties!! They also have tables & chairs for kids & catering. Delivery throughout the Central Valley
LOCATION: Ciudad Colon
HOURS: Mon.-Fri. 9am-5pm
FESTIVO EVENTOS
(2-289-2121 / 8-981-8989 / http://FestivaEventos.com / info@FestivaEventos.com)
LOCATION: Centro Comercial Roma - 225 mts South of Scotia Bank - 2nd Floor
HOURS: Mon.-Fri. 9am-6pm, Sat. 9am-3pm
ALQUILERES RODRIGUEZ Sillas Plegables y Mesas
(2-228-7053)
LOCATION: Escazu-Bello Horizonte - 75 mts South of la Capilla
ALQUILERES FESTIVOS
(2-286-5713)
LOCATION: Escazu - Centro
Otto Gerez
(2-232-2552)
Larger selection, good prices, catering
LOCATION: La Sabana
(per Gustavo at JopCo) (no one seems to speak English here)
Marta Chavez
REALCE
(2-290-3572)
LOCATION: Pavas
I think she more custom makes Table Cloths, Chair Covers, Napkins+
(per Gustavo at JopCo)
Seeking a list of places/venues to hold an event for kids or big people alike, e- us (it will be coming here one day).
Here are a couple sites for more info (though CostaRicaLink.com is an old list/site). Many are for general party supply stores BUT if you contact them, hopefully they’ll be customer service oriented enough to share with you some supplies they have for rentals.
http://1costaricalink.com/eng/shopping/shop-eng/alqfiestas-35eng.htm
http://TelefonicaAmarilla.com/?envio=submit&classs=ALQUILER%20EQUIPO%20PARA%20FIESTAS
Unfortunately my Spanish is tooooo limited to update this list (I didn’t find ANYONE that I reached to speak ANY English/English-Spanglish) so if someone wants to help get details like websites, email addresses, any English-speaking contacts, details on the other list of places I have in other araes, etc. - contact me at CostaRicaResourceGuide@gmail.com
(send my invitation to CostaRicaResourceGuide@gmail.com!!)
Vicki
Wednesday, December 10, 2008
MOVIE THEATERS / CINE's IN COSTA RICA
MOVIE-GOING INFO:
Movie Theaters in Costa Rica are called "Cine"
Costa Rica has many first run movies though they don't always come out right away/upon release (like Mamma Mia which came to Costa Rica MONTHS after it was released!).
Most movies are English with Spanish Subtitles (unless it says “Hablada en Español”) though I’m not positive about movies for kids.
Movies in Costa Rica usually change on Friday.
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SPECIALS: “1/2 Price Wednesday Special” prices (I believe this discount is only off the full ticket price).
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HOW TO FIND OUT WHAT IS SHOWING:
IN ENGLISH:
http://WhereInCostaRica.com/cinema - This is a FABULOUS SITE!
Tico Times (Fri. Paper) - “This Week’s Movies” & Cinemas (Fri.) (towards the back -usually on the flip side - just before their Calendar) (descriptions often in English & names in English/Spanish [or whatever language])
IN SPANISH:
http://navegalo.com/cinemas/index.php?lang=en - Hit Costa Rica (the blue, white & red vertical stripped flag) then go down to Enlaces Recomendados, then to Navegalo Cinema. Though there is a button at the top for English, I haven't found that to work. I like this in that if you click a specific movie, it will bring up all the theaters it's at along with times in an easy to read format.
http://CineMania.co.cr - This site is a good tool to find out where a specific movie is playing (though it is in Spanish).
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THEATERS
CINEPOLIS VIP TERRAMALL(http://CinepolisVIP.com.mx / http://cinepolis.co.cr/indexcr.aspx?ciudad=59 / 2-423-2250 [I also saw 2-518-0002 but perhaps that’s for the regular theatre]). A REALLY EASY site to navigate AND in English is http://WhereInCostaRica.com/cinema)
A TOTALLY VIP/LUXURY/COOL/UNIQUE EXPERIENCE!!!
8 Movie Theatres with large, lush, comfy reclining (literally) seats with headrests & attached tv trays & waiters serving you food options like things from their Sushi Bar (maki salmon, yakimeshi, marki mar y tierra, kushiage de queso Philadelphia, kushiage de camaron y queso Philadelphia), sweets including carmel corn, a bunch of different types of sandwiches/baguettes & even a Coffee Bar & a Liquor Bar where they serve you everything from margaritas to piña coladas, daiquiris, martinis & wine+!). Make sure to look for their latest food/drink special on the site!)!!!
HOW TO FIND SHOWINGS: I’ve been to the Cinepolis website MANY times & it was JUST today that I figured out how to do the VIP site (limited Spanish) so here’s my interpretation of how to navigate it:
At the top of the sites at the 3 white pull downs go to:
Selecciona tu Ciudad (city) - scroll down to San Jose, Costa Rica
Selecciona tu Cinepolis - click Cinepolis VIP TerraMall
Selecciona una pelicula (select a movie) - select which movie you want details on
Click Buscar (search)
This brings up the description & trailer. Within that box, go to the pull-down Exhibiendose en (which theatre it’s showing) - click San Jose & it brings up the schedule for ALL showings!
LOCATION: TerraMall in Tres Rios, Cartago (just off the Del Peaje Pista Florencio del Castillo) (about an hour drive from Escazu)
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ESCAZU - Cinemark at Multiplaza-Escazu
(http://cinemarkca.com / 2-201-5050
http://WhereInCostaRica.com/cinema#11)
HOW TO FIND SHOWINGS: At top of page go to the Costa Rican flag (blue, white, red verticle strips). Towards the top right corner under Cartelera/Horarios – go to Costa Rica & which theatre) - 8 theaters.
Movies don’t start till around 2pm weekdays & noon-ish on weekends.
LOCATION: In MultiPlaza Mall - Upstairs near the Food Court around the middle of the mall
SPECIAL: 1/2 Price Wednesdays (I believe off full price tickets only) make it around 1,100-c I believe!
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There are LOTS more theaters around Costa Rica (though mainly in the Central Valley)! For more theaters go to "HOW TO FIND OUT WHAT IS SHOWING" above.
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MOVIE RENTAL PLACES THAT DELIVER WITHIN THE CENTRAL VALLEY - Where to RENT MOVIES
Check out http://LivingLifeInCostaRica.blogspot.com/2008/04/movie-dvd-delivery-services-in-costa.html
HAVE FUN!!!!
Vicki
Tuesday, December 9, 2008
Office Supply Furniture Stores - Where to Find Chairs, Desks, Ergonomics in Costa Rica
I hear there’s outlet with "damaged/marred" office furniture on the street behind Pizza Hut off Paseo Colon in San Jose near Sabana Park.
MUGUI
(http://muguisa.net / ventas@muguisa.com)
Headquarters (2-253-8834 / 2-224-7114) - DIRECTIONS: Guadalupe, 200 metros East of Hipermas
OUTLET: Guadalupe
El Alto (2-280-1503 / 2-283-2397) - DIRECTIONS: 150 mts East of the intersection of Moravia y Guadalupe
Rohmoser: (2-290-3760 / 2-290-3772 / 2-296-4169) - DIRECTIONS: 75 mts este of Cemaco)
Sabana Sur: (2-290-5667) - DIRECTIONS: Next to Hollywood Strip Club in Sabana Sur.
Escazu (San Rafael): (2-288-5655) - DIRECTIONS: in Paco Plaza.
San Pedro (Los Yoses): (2-283-43-48) - DIRECTIONS: 125 mts East of KFC)
METALIN
(http://metalin-cr.com)
HOURS: Mon.-Fri. 7:30am-5:30pm
Headquarters: San Jose (Downtown) (2-222-3777 / 2-222-3516 / 2-222-3191 / metalin@ice.co.cr / info@metalin-cr.com) - DIRECTIONS: Calle 20 & Avenida 8 & 10 (75 meters North of the Iglesia de las Animas / Animas Church [in front of the General Cementery] at the light, turn left before the light on Calle 20. Near Hospital de Ninos.
San Jose-Barrio Cordoba (2-226-2596 / displaycr@ice.co.cr) - DIRECTIONS: 150 mts al Sur-Oeste/South/West of the Rotonda in Zapote - in the Centro Comercial Paseo del Parque
Alajuela (2-442-2232 / comdelcu@ice.co.cr) - DIRECTIONS: Costado East of the Museo Juan Santamaría in Alajuela
FREE DELIVERY within the Central Valley. MANAGER: Grace de la Cuesta
ALTERNATIVE
(http://AlternativaCR.com/main.php?pais=costarica / 2-258-0001 / info@alternativacr.com)
San Jose DIRECTIONS: 50 mts. East of McDonalds in Sabana Sur (the back street past Yammuni)
CRAIG’S LIST
(http://costarica.es.craigslist.org)
LA ARTISTICA
(http://LaArtistica.net/index.php?producto=productos&id=1&subfamilia=5&pagina=1)
These are more Sofa Beds that tend to be more contemporary (like most of their COOL furniture) and LOTS more $$. Be sure to check out their outlet store Downtown. DELIVERY!
SAN JOSE - OUTLET - Downtown (2-223-5544) - HOURS: Mon.-Fri. 9am-6:30pm, Sat. 9:30am-6pm. DIRECTIONS: Avenida 2nd between Calles 7 & 9.
PAVAS/ROHRMOSER (2-296-2590) - HOURS: Mon.-Sat. 9:30am-7:30pm, Sun. 10am-6pm. DIRECTIONS: On the main road in Pavas, across the street and close to Cemaco)
CURRIDABAT (2-272-8787) - HOURS: Mon.-Sat. 10am-6pm. DIRECTIONS: Diagonal to Hipermas.
WAREHOUSE - LIBERIA (2-668-1313) - HOURS: Mon.-Sat. 8am-5:30pm. DIRECTIONS: Calle 4 & 5
MUEBLE AMERICA
(http://MuebleAmerica.com / 2-215-3031/ 2-215-3032 / info@MuebleAmerica.com) - Top End Custom Made
DIRECTIONS: 200 mts. north from Multiplaza Escazú, Condominio Comercial La Placita
SEARSON
(http://searson.co.cr / 2-520-1112) - DIRECTIONS: Sabana Sur-300 mts West of the Costa Rica Tennis Club. HOURS: Mon.-Sat. 9:30am-6:30pm, Sun. 10am-4pm
TECNIMUEBLES
(http://TecniMuebles.com / 2-252-3086 / 2-223-6021 / 8-993-8185 / info@tecnimuebles.com) - Guadalupe - DIRECTIONS: 100 Metros South of the Centro Comercial Guadalupe
OFFICE DEPOT
MUGUI
(http://muguisa.net / ventas@muguisa.com)
Headquarters (2-253-8834 / 2-224-7114) - DIRECTIONS: Guadalupe, 200 metros East of Hipermas
OUTLET: Guadalupe
El Alto (2-280-1503 / 2-283-2397) - DIRECTIONS: 150 mts East of the intersection of Moravia y Guadalupe
Rohmoser: (2-290-3760 / 2-290-3772 / 2-296-4169) - DIRECTIONS: 75 mts este of Cemaco)
Sabana Sur: (2-290-5667) - DIRECTIONS: Next to Hollywood Strip Club in Sabana Sur.
Escazu (San Rafael): (2-288-5655) - DIRECTIONS: in Paco Plaza.
San Pedro (Los Yoses): (2-283-43-48) - DIRECTIONS: 125 mts East of KFC)
METALIN
(http://metalin-cr.com)
HOURS: Mon.-Fri. 7:30am-5:30pm
Headquarters: San Jose (Downtown) (2-222-3777 / 2-222-3516 / 2-222-3191 / metalin@ice.co.cr / info@metalin-cr.com) - DIRECTIONS: Calle 20 & Avenida 8 & 10 (75 meters North of the Iglesia de las Animas / Animas Church [in front of the General Cementery] at the light, turn left before the light on Calle 20. Near Hospital de Ninos.
San Jose-Barrio Cordoba (2-226-2596 / displaycr@ice.co.cr) - DIRECTIONS: 150 mts al Sur-Oeste/South/West of the Rotonda in Zapote - in the Centro Comercial Paseo del Parque
Alajuela (2-442-2232 / comdelcu@ice.co.cr) - DIRECTIONS: Costado East of the Museo Juan Santamaría in Alajuela
FREE DELIVERY within the Central Valley. MANAGER: Grace de la Cuesta
ALTERNATIVE
(http://AlternativaCR.com/main.php?pais=costarica / 2-258-0001 / info@alternativacr.com)
San Jose DIRECTIONS: 50 mts. East of McDonalds in Sabana Sur (the back street past Yammuni)
CRAIG’S LIST
(http://costarica.es.craigslist.org)
LA ARTISTICA
(http://LaArtistica.net/index.php?producto=productos&id=1&subfamilia=5&pagina=1)
These are more Sofa Beds that tend to be more contemporary (like most of their COOL furniture) and LOTS more $$. Be sure to check out their outlet store Downtown. DELIVERY!
SAN JOSE - OUTLET - Downtown (2-223-5544) - HOURS: Mon.-Fri. 9am-6:30pm, Sat. 9:30am-6pm. DIRECTIONS: Avenida 2nd between Calles 7 & 9.
PAVAS/ROHRMOSER (2-296-2590) - HOURS: Mon.-Sat. 9:30am-7:30pm, Sun. 10am-6pm. DIRECTIONS: On the main road in Pavas, across the street and close to Cemaco)
CURRIDABAT (2-272-8787) - HOURS: Mon.-Sat. 10am-6pm. DIRECTIONS: Diagonal to Hipermas.
WAREHOUSE - LIBERIA (2-668-1313) - HOURS: Mon.-Sat. 8am-5:30pm. DIRECTIONS: Calle 4 & 5
MUEBLE AMERICA
(http://MuebleAmerica.com / 2-215-3031/ 2-215-3032 / info@MuebleAmerica.com) - Top End Custom Made
DIRECTIONS: 200 mts. north from Multiplaza Escazú, Condominio Comercial La Placita
SEARSON
(http://searson.co.cr / 2-520-1112) - DIRECTIONS: Sabana Sur-300 mts West of the Costa Rica Tennis Club. HOURS: Mon.-Sat. 9:30am-6:30pm, Sun. 10am-4pm
TECNIMUEBLES
(http://TecniMuebles.com / 2-252-3086 / 2-223-6021 / 8-993-8185 / info@tecnimuebles.com) - Guadalupe - DIRECTIONS: 100 Metros South of the Centro Comercial Guadalupe
OFFICE DEPOT
Monday, November 24, 2008
Travel Agency located IN Costa Rica to help you plan a trip OUTSIDE of CR
Do you live IN Costa Rica & are you looking for a travel agency IN Costa Rica to help you plan a trip OUTSIDE of Costa Rica?
Contact:
COSTA RICA TRAVEL STORE
Corner of Avenida 4 & Calle 40 (inside the ARCR office in San Jose near Sabana Park)
(http://CostaRicaTravelStore.com / 1-800-250-5119-from U.S.)
Air Tickets/Packages Outside of CR: Jaime (2-222-7862-his direct # / 2-257-2223-office/Carolina / Jaime@ CostaRicaTravelStore.com)
They both speak good English
Contact:
COSTA RICA TRAVEL STORE
Corner of Avenida 4 & Calle 40 (inside the ARCR office in San Jose near Sabana Park)
(http://CostaRicaTravelStore.com / 1-800-250-5119-from U.S.)
Air Tickets/Packages Outside of CR: Jaime (2-222-7862-his direct # / 2-257-2223-office/Carolina / Jaime@ CostaRicaTravelStore.com)
They both speak good English
Thursday, November 20, 2008
Bedding, Sheets, Comforters, Memory Foam Toppers - Where to find them in Costa Rica
Costa Rica is REALLY lacking in GOOD QUALITY &/or CUTE/COOL Bedding / Sheets. For WITHIN Costa Rica go to our site:
http://LivingLifeInCostaRica.blogspot.com/2008/07/better-quality-bedding-and-sheets-in.html
Another option is to buy things online/on the internet/web & have friends/family bring them to you. You can have them shipped to you & though the item could be cheap, they often are in oversized boxes hence there will often be a fee for such oversized boxes.
http://Overstock.com/bedding/29/store.html - MY FAV site!!!
MEMORY FOAM TOPPERS (a MUST in Costa Rica as MOST beds here are as hard as a rock!!) - I've found 2" Memory Foam Toppers WITH 1-2 Contour Pillows for $80 + & sometimes they have $1 or even FREE Shipping within the U.S.! (http://overstock.com/Home-Garden/Memory-Foam-2-inch-Mattress-Topper-Contour-Pillows/1862668/product.html)!!
SHEETS: Once I got 1,000 tc/thread count Egyptian Cotton Sheets for $170 - reg. $400!!!! (right now they have some 1,500 ct. for $170!!! Those must be BEYOND heavenly!!). I've found other 400+ tc sheets for as low as $25-$40 a set!!!
http://Domestications.com/Dept/Bedding/10000
MY FAV - ESPECIALLY for COOL comforters/Bed-In-Bag sets, blankets & towels!!
I've found Bed-In-Bag (they come with a comforter, set of sheets [though usually only around 200 tc], dust ruffle & pillow sham) for as low as $60 + shipping (http://Domestications.com/Dept/Bed+in+a+Bag+reg+Sets/10000/10108). They're not usually
http://BrylaneHome.com/home-Bedding.aspx?DeptId=15154
http://bed-and-bath.smartbargains.com/dept.aspx?aid=753&program=13456&isRW=1&deptid=bed-and-bath
http://BizRate.com/bedding
For options WITHIN Costa Rica go to:
http://LivingLifeInCostaRica.blogspot.com/2008/07/better-quality-bedding-and-sheets-in.html
http://LivingLifeInCostaRica.blogspot.com/2008/07/better-quality-bedding-and-sheets-in.html
Another option is to buy things online/on the internet/web & have friends/family bring them to you. You can have them shipped to you & though the item could be cheap, they often are in oversized boxes hence there will often be a fee for such oversized boxes.
http://Overstock.com/bedding/29/store.html - MY FAV site!!!
MEMORY FOAM TOPPERS (a MUST in Costa Rica as MOST beds here are as hard as a rock!!) - I've found 2" Memory Foam Toppers WITH 1-2 Contour Pillows for $80 + & sometimes they have $1 or even FREE Shipping within the U.S.! (http://overstock.com/Home-Garden/Memory-Foam-2-inch-Mattress-Topper-Contour-Pillows/1862668/product.html)!!
SHEETS: Once I got 1,000 tc/thread count Egyptian Cotton Sheets for $170 - reg. $400!!!! (right now they have some 1,500 ct. for $170!!! Those must be BEYOND heavenly!!). I've found other 400+ tc sheets for as low as $25-$40 a set!!!
http://Domestications.com/Dept/Bedding/10000
MY FAV - ESPECIALLY for COOL comforters/Bed-In-Bag sets, blankets & towels!!
I've found Bed-In-Bag (they come with a comforter, set of sheets [though usually only around 200 tc], dust ruffle & pillow sham) for as low as $60 + shipping (http://Domestications.com/Dept/Bed+in+a+Bag+reg+Sets/10000/10108). They're not usually
http://BrylaneHome.com/home-Bedding.aspx?DeptId=15154
http://bed-and-bath.smartbargains.com/dept.aspx?aid=753&program=13456&isRW=1&deptid=bed-and-bath
http://BizRate.com/bedding
For options WITHIN Costa Rica go to:
http://LivingLifeInCostaRica.blogspot.com/2008/07/better-quality-bedding-and-sheets-in.html
Monday, November 10, 2008
PAWN SHOPS in Costa Rica
SAN JOSE
There are a BUNCH of pawn shops in the Central San Jose area around Avenida 1 and Calles 14 - 20 (about a 4 square block radius)!!!
FUN TIME had by most!!
Initially I had to wrestle with whether to patronize Pawn Shops or not as MANY of the used items ARE stolen, but many things are also brought in by people that REALLY needing money (sadly we’ll be seeing more & more of that in the near future!!), plus, after going, I learned there were also LOTS of NEW things as well so I got over it (Goddess forbid if I ever got something stolen, it’s the first place I’d look &/or buy from probably).
Before going, I had MANY people about how unsafe it was & to ONLY go with a GOOD Tico friend that you can TRUST as it’s VERY VERY UNSAFE (for driving/walking & especially parking). I went with a taxi driver (that I trust) & a few friends & broke off on my own & felt ok (of course I wasn’t carrying anything but my backpack & pepperspray ALWAYS cocked!!). I think had I just taken him to get there/back, I would have been fine - as long as I wasn’t walking about with my purchases (which if that was the case, I’d probably leave them at the store & once I was ready to head home, have my taxi pick them up)(just keep that “Street Smarts” up!!).
I have seen almost EVERY conceivable item in these pawnshops - everything from appliances, cell phones, electronics items from drills to vibrators (yes!), furniture, computers (even Mac’s), guitars, jewelry - things used AND New!
You can walk into the store, skim through pretty fast as things are pretty much out there & get out (Power Shop!!!). I found the workers to be quite friendly and helpful & most stores had at least one person that spoke pretty good English.
One of the reasons I was told it was also good to take a Tico with you was I’m SURE you can do better with prices if the Tico is doing the negotiations (withOUT you there). With that said, next time I wanted something more pricey or a bunch of things, first I’d go with the driver who spoke both English & Spanish, find what I wanted & it’s price, make a list (along with which store it was in), then have my driver go back another day (or maybe just drop me off at a restaurant while he went back to do this). If you do it this way, ya GOTTA trust the driver you’re using (email me if you would like some of the people I use/trust).
Your best price will be paying with CASH & I believe most places took credit card.
La Cueva - is the MAIN/largest one.
PreStafull / Pre$tafull is one of MY favs (it feels cleaner!!)
San Jose-Centro - Calle 10 (2-221-0027) who is open 24/7!!! They’re also in:
Alajuela (2-431-5460)
Alajuela-Tuasa (2-431-0255)
Alajuelita (2-252-7436)
Cartago (2-553-0913)
Desamparados (2-219-6078)
Guadalupe (2-245-7950)
Heredia (2-237-2110)
Lomas (2-213-0737)
Palmares (2-452-1379)
Paraiso (2-574-5919)
Pavas (2-290-7181)
PuentArenas (2-661-0910)
San Pedro (2-225-1580)
San Sebastian #1 (2-226-1645)
San Sebastian #2 (2-226-8641)
Tibas (2-297-2790)
What’s your favorite Pawn Shop
There are a BUNCH of pawn shops in the Central San Jose area around Avenida 1 and Calles 14 - 20 (about a 4 square block radius)!!!
FUN TIME had by most!!
Initially I had to wrestle with whether to patronize Pawn Shops or not as MANY of the used items ARE stolen, but many things are also brought in by people that REALLY needing money (sadly we’ll be seeing more & more of that in the near future!!), plus, after going, I learned there were also LOTS of NEW things as well so I got over it (Goddess forbid if I ever got something stolen, it’s the first place I’d look &/or buy from probably).
Before going, I had MANY people about how unsafe it was & to ONLY go with a GOOD Tico friend that you can TRUST as it’s VERY VERY UNSAFE (for driving/walking & especially parking). I went with a taxi driver (that I trust) & a few friends & broke off on my own & felt ok (of course I wasn’t carrying anything but my backpack & pepperspray ALWAYS cocked!!). I think had I just taken him to get there/back, I would have been fine - as long as I wasn’t walking about with my purchases (which if that was the case, I’d probably leave them at the store & once I was ready to head home, have my taxi pick them up)(just keep that “Street Smarts” up!!).
I have seen almost EVERY conceivable item in these pawnshops - everything from appliances, cell phones, electronics items from drills to vibrators (yes!), furniture, computers (even Mac’s), guitars, jewelry - things used AND New!
You can walk into the store, skim through pretty fast as things are pretty much out there & get out (Power Shop!!!). I found the workers to be quite friendly and helpful & most stores had at least one person that spoke pretty good English.
One of the reasons I was told it was also good to take a Tico with you was I’m SURE you can do better with prices if the Tico is doing the negotiations (withOUT you there). With that said, next time I wanted something more pricey or a bunch of things, first I’d go with the driver who spoke both English & Spanish, find what I wanted & it’s price, make a list (along with which store it was in), then have my driver go back another day (or maybe just drop me off at a restaurant while he went back to do this). If you do it this way, ya GOTTA trust the driver you’re using (email me if you would like some of the people I use/trust).
Your best price will be paying with CASH & I believe most places took credit card.
La Cueva - is the MAIN/largest one.
PreStafull / Pre$tafull is one of MY favs (it feels cleaner!!)
San Jose-Centro - Calle 10 (2-221-0027) who is open 24/7!!! They’re also in:
Alajuela (2-431-5460)
Alajuela-Tuasa (2-431-0255)
Alajuelita (2-252-7436)
Cartago (2-553-0913)
Desamparados (2-219-6078)
Guadalupe (2-245-7950)
Heredia (2-237-2110)
Lomas (2-213-0737)
Palmares (2-452-1379)
Paraiso (2-574-5919)
Pavas (2-290-7181)
PuentArenas (2-661-0910)
San Pedro (2-225-1580)
San Sebastian #1 (2-226-1645)
San Sebastian #2 (2-226-8641)
Tibas (2-297-2790)
What’s your favorite Pawn Shop
Tuesday, November 4, 2008
If the World Could Vote . . . . VERY INTERESTING!!!!
If the world could vote....VERY INTERESTING!!!!
Who is behind the site?
Just three guys from Iceland. The site is independent from all political parties, companies or hidden agendas. It's just an idea a 22 year old guy in Iceland came up with and executed with a little help from a couple of friends.
Why are you doing this?
Just out of curiosity. The president of the United States is a powerful man, probably the most powerful person on the planet. So everyone seems to have an opinion on who should be the next president of the United States. We thought it would be interesting to see who would be the next president if the whole world could vote. It's also a challenge to try to beat the number of voters in the last US elections. So spread the news.
Vote & then check out the results (ESPECIALLY for Costa Rica!!!)
http://IfTheWorldCouldVote.com
Who is behind the site?
Just three guys from Iceland. The site is independent from all political parties, companies or hidden agendas. It's just an idea a 22 year old guy in Iceland came up with and executed with a little help from a couple of friends.
Why are you doing this?
Just out of curiosity. The president of the United States is a powerful man, probably the most powerful person on the planet. So everyone seems to have an opinion on who should be the next president of the United States. We thought it would be interesting to see who would be the next president if the whole world could vote. It's also a challenge to try to beat the number of voters in the last US elections. So spread the news.
Vote & then check out the results (ESPECIALLY for Costa Rica!!!)
http://IfTheWorldCouldVote.com
Monday, November 3, 2008
OYSTERS in Costa Rica
Product c Oysters
(http://product-c.com / 8-821-7546 / 8-854-7813 / 2-640-1026 / samy@product-c.com)
AguaCulturists & Owners Damian & Samantha Geneau have opened Product c - an upscale seafood deli and national fresh oyster distributorship in Playa Carmen, Costa Rica (on the Pacific Coast of Costa Rica - near MalPais).
Our "Saccostrea Giggas" Seedlings, which were originally brought to Costa Rica from Chile, are cultivated with the utmost care and safety standards by local Marine Biologist Alexandra Peralta.
(http://product-c.com / 8-821-7546 / 8-854-7813 / 2-640-1026 / samy@product-c.com)
AguaCulturists & Owners Damian & Samantha Geneau have opened Product c - an upscale seafood deli and national fresh oyster distributorship in Playa Carmen, Costa Rica (on the Pacific Coast of Costa Rica - near MalPais).
Our "Saccostrea Giggas" Seedlings, which were originally brought to Costa Rica from Chile, are cultivated with the utmost care and safety standards by local Marine Biologist Alexandra Peralta.
PET SUPPLY STORE - COOL NEW place in Santa Ana
PETCO
(http://PetCompany.co.cr / 2-282-6058) - Santa Ana
What a FUN place & I don’t even have any pets!! They had LOTS of unique/American toys/fun things/foods++ - everything from a Pet Bunk Bed, Trampoline (this is REALLY GOOD for longer haired pets that get overheated as it ventilates them from below), Dog Boots (for those rainy days), even FUN costumes/outfits (I felt I was back in San Francisco!!) & MORE!! They even had Greenies (to me the BEST/healthies [albethem mucho $$$] dog treat that’s great for their breath!!). FOOD: They carry Science Diet, Hills Prestone, ProPac, Optimo, Lams.
Their website has an area of pets for sale - http://PetCompany.co.cr/classifieds.php
PET GROOMING - They say they’re the ONLY place in CR with a Pet Drying Machine (no Josh, they do NOT tumble dry them!!!) & use Romani Inc. & Edemco Professional Equipment. Plus they can provide EXPRESS Service in Santa Ana & Escazu.
HOURS: Mon.-Sat. 8am-8pm, Sun. 9am-3pm
LOCATION: Avalon Comercial Center #9 - 175 mts. SouthEast of the Red Cross/Cruz Roja
(http://PetCompany.co.cr / 2-282-6058) - Santa Ana
What a FUN place & I don’t even have any pets!! They had LOTS of unique/American toys/fun things/foods++ - everything from a Pet Bunk Bed, Trampoline (this is REALLY GOOD for longer haired pets that get overheated as it ventilates them from below), Dog Boots (for those rainy days), even FUN costumes/outfits (I felt I was back in San Francisco!!) & MORE!! They even had Greenies (to me the BEST/healthies [albethem mucho $$$] dog treat that’s great for their breath!!). FOOD: They carry Science Diet, Hills Prestone, ProPac, Optimo, Lams.
Their website has an area of pets for sale - http://PetCompany.co.cr/classifieds.php
PET GROOMING - They say they’re the ONLY place in CR with a Pet Drying Machine (no Josh, they do NOT tumble dry them!!!) & use Romani Inc. & Edemco Professional Equipment. Plus they can provide EXPRESS Service in Santa Ana & Escazu.
HOURS: Mon.-Sat. 8am-8pm, Sun. 9am-3pm
LOCATION: Avalon Comercial Center #9 - 175 mts. SouthEast of the Red Cross/Cruz Roja
Sunday, October 26, 2008
BEADS, GEMSTONES, BEADING SUPPLIES in Costa Rica
Actually, currently I have some beading things for sale in Escazu - more unique things that aren't so easy to find in Costa Rica (including the little rubber things for eyeglass necklaces)!!
http://SarongGoddess.com/gallery/4397828_VCUyU
Contact me (Vicki) at SarongGoddess@gmail.com or 8-378-6679
Beads & gemstones are not easy to find in Costa Rica. Most craft stores sell only a limited amount of beads.
ZODIAC BEAD STORE
(http://ZodiacInternacional.com / zodiac@racsa.co.cr)
Zodiac has the WONDERFUL round treatment CRYSTALS & GEMSTONES & giodes for some of the best prices I’ve found in Costa Rica as well as things for BEADING (also the cheapest I’ve found in Costa Rica) & even numerous FENG SHUI treatments (also GREAT prices)!!!
SAN PEDRO MALL - Planta Baja (2-283-8609)
CLASSES: Wed. 9:30-11:30am.
HOURS: Mon.-Sat. 10:30am-8pm, Sun. 10:30am-7pm
REAL CARIARI MALL - 3rd Floor (2-293-8201)
HOURS: Daily 10am-7pm
SAN JOSE – DOWNTOWN - Morazan (2-223-7881) - Costado sur del Parque Morazon - Contiguo a la Escuala Puru
HAIKU BEADS & MORE
They’re no longer have a “store” but ARE open BY APPOINTMENT ONLY at their bodega in San Jose. OR, if you know what you want, they may be able to bring it to you depending on where you are/the quantity.
They currently have no classes BUT, if you want to get a group together or hire them for a private class, they can be open to that!
For an appointment, contact Carmel (8-875-2388 / Carmel Montoya@gmail.com)
LOCATION: San Jose - Plaza Aventura #18 - behind the Cementerio de Obreros. Coming from the West side - at Avenida 10 - turn Right at the light, go down about 2 blocks & there they are. Across from the entrance to the feria/farmers market Mercado Mayorista south/east from Yammuni
Escazu
There’s a newer place in the little strip mall behind POPS - up on the 2nd floor but you enter through I believe a art gallery below (I’m going to get this info).
Alajuela -
ECLIPSE SOUVENIRS (2-440-7052)
They seem to be carrying less souvenirs and more beads and findings. They have bags full 600 colon, and bins full of individual gemstones.
LOCATION: Coming out of Scotiabank, turn left. It’s a couple of doors down.
The craft store (Acropulis?) on the 2nd floor - caddy corner to the church - has some gemstones.
http://SarongGoddess.com/gallery/4397828_VCUyU
Contact me (Vicki) at SarongGoddess@gmail.com or 8-378-6679
Beads & gemstones are not easy to find in Costa Rica. Most craft stores sell only a limited amount of beads.
ZODIAC BEAD STORE
(http://ZodiacInternacional.com / zodiac@racsa.co.cr)
Zodiac has the WONDERFUL round treatment CRYSTALS & GEMSTONES & giodes for some of the best prices I’ve found in Costa Rica as well as things for BEADING (also the cheapest I’ve found in Costa Rica) & even numerous FENG SHUI treatments (also GREAT prices)!!!
SAN PEDRO MALL - Planta Baja (2-283-8609)
CLASSES: Wed. 9:30-11:30am.
HOURS: Mon.-Sat. 10:30am-8pm, Sun. 10:30am-7pm
REAL CARIARI MALL - 3rd Floor (2-293-8201)
HOURS: Daily 10am-7pm
SAN JOSE – DOWNTOWN - Morazan (2-223-7881) - Costado sur del Parque Morazon - Contiguo a la Escuala Puru
HAIKU BEADS & MORE
They’re no longer have a “store” but ARE open BY APPOINTMENT ONLY at their bodega in San Jose. OR, if you know what you want, they may be able to bring it to you depending on where you are/the quantity.
They currently have no classes BUT, if you want to get a group together or hire them for a private class, they can be open to that!
For an appointment, contact Carmel (8-875-2388 / Carmel Montoya@gmail.com)
LOCATION: San Jose - Plaza Aventura #18 - behind the Cementerio de Obreros. Coming from the West side - at Avenida 10 - turn Right at the light, go down about 2 blocks & there they are. Across from the entrance to the feria/farmers market Mercado Mayorista south/east from Yammuni
Escazu
There’s a newer place in the little strip mall behind POPS - up on the 2nd floor but you enter through I believe a art gallery below (I’m going to get this info).
Alajuela -
ECLIPSE SOUVENIRS (2-440-7052)
They seem to be carrying less souvenirs and more beads and findings. They have bags full 600 colon, and bins full of individual gemstones.
LOCATION: Coming out of Scotiabank, turn left. It’s a couple of doors down.
The craft store (Acropulis?) on the 2nd floor - caddy corner to the church - has some gemstones.
Monday, October 20, 2008
TENNIS - Where to play Tennis in Costa Rica - COURTS / CLUBS / Residencies
PUBLIC (& one of THE BEST!!!!)
Pozos de Santa Ana
PARQUE VALLE DEL SOL (inside the residential area)
(http://ValleSol.com/tennis.htm / 2-282-9222 x204 or 228 / Tenis@ValleSol.com)
I consistantly hear REALLY positive things about these courts - nice facilities, good trainers & many have said it’s better run than many of the private clubs! They have 10 semi-slow courts - 2 covered/lighted & 8 open air.
COST: Mon.-Fri.-3,000-c/hr, Sat. & Sun.-4,000-c/hr. They also have racket rentals, racket stringing service, locker rooms wtih showers, drinks for sale & a sports shop.
And an 18 hole, 18 hole, Par for course: 72, professional championship GOLF COURSE (2-282-9222 x218) designed by Tracy May, under the supervision and advice of Club Corporation of America (CCA) and International Management Group (IMG). They have Golf Cart rentals, Driving Range, Putting Green, Golf Academy, Gold equipment rental, Golf Lessons, a Pro-Shop, Snack Bar.
HOURS:
LOCATION: 1700 meters West of Banco Banex off the road off the Pista heading towards the airport
Escazu - Centro - Rosa Linda
Not sure of the name but there’s a pubic court (with a new one being built there & opening in Nov.) in Centro Escazu - past Snoopy’s bar/restaurant on right - just after the bridge - across from the cemetary. 100 mts West of cemetary & 50 mts north.
HOURS: 6am-5pm.
COST: $1,500-c/hr.
RESERVATION: It’s MUI COMPLICATED - First you have to call the Escazu Sports Committee (2-289-9432 - note - NO ONE in their speaks any English). Then, MY understanding of this is you HAVE to go to their office between 8am-5pm (up the hill from the Scotia Split in Centro Escazu behind Escazu High School / Liceo Escazu) to pay, receive a receipt & the key, then you go play & if no one is right after you, you have to take the key back (otherwise you just pass the key onto the next person).
Jaboncillo area
San Jose - Sabana Park
3 courts & pick up games from 8-9am
HOTELS
There are a few hotels where non-guests can pay daily:
Escazu
Real InterContinental
(2-208-2100 / http://ICHotelsgroup.com/intercontinental/en/gb/locations/overview/costarica-sanjose)
Their 1/one TENNIS COURT (outside, lit, synthetic surface) IS open to non-hotel guests by reservation.
COST: Daily - 6am-6pm-5,000-c/hr, 6-9pm - 7,500-c/hr. (xt. 2159)
The hotel also has a Fitness Center, Spa, Pool
NEAR SJO AIRPORT -
Alajuela
BEST WESTERN IRAZU (2-232-4811-courts xt. 2761/ http://book.bestwestern.com/bestwestern/productInfo.do?iata=&promoCode=&corpID=&propertyCode=70604 / 2-290-9300-hotel)
Their 2/two lit TENNIS COURTS ARE open to non-hotel guests by reservation*
COST: Non-hotel guests pay a $130/year Membership Fee & can use the courts whenever they can get a reservation. Lessons - 7,000/hr. PRO: Gilbert (8-821-8835) who speaks good English.
LOCATION: Km 3 Autopista General Canas
For hotel guests, the property also has a Pool, one of the largest Casinos in Costa Rica, Denny's Restaurant, Hertz Rent-A-Car, La Cantina Bar, tour desks by Gray Line Costa Rica, souvenir shop, Pizza Hut, and Burger King "touch button" for delivery service, Laundry service, room service, Gym, landscaped gardens, massage and sauna.
Belen
El Rodeo (2-293-3909 / http://ElRodeoHotel.com)
Their 1 TENNIS COURT IS open to non-hotel guests by reservation.
COST: 2,000-c/hr. HOURS: 6am-6pm (no lights).
For guests - the hotel also has a Pool, Jacuzzi and Conference Rooms
Cariari
Melia Cariari - 10 Tennis Courts, championship 18 hole Golf Course, small Casino, Disco, Olympic-size Pool, Health Club, Sauna, Whirlpool, Gym, Conference Center, 3 Restaurants (from Country Club next door??)
La Garita de Alajuela
Martino Resort & Med Spa - Spa area with Sauna, steam bath, a big, very good equipped and all around glazed fitness area with view of the surrounding gardens, as well as a big swimming pool. To the hotel also belong an Italian Gourmet-restaurant, tennis-court, conference room and casino.
Cariari - Ramada Inn Herradura
Corobici Hotel - Casino, Spa, Convention Center, Tennis Court, Fitness & Beauty. 3 minutes from downtown SJ
Belen (San Antonio de)
MARRIOTT (2-298-0124-courts / 2-298-0000-hotel)
Their 3 TENNIS COURTS are NOT open to non-hotel guests. Lessons - $30/hr.
LOCATION: 700 Metros West of Firestone Tire factory.
GOLF COURSE with a Driving Range, rentals, lessons, Practice Range.
For hotel guests, they also have 2 Pools with pool bar, 4 restaurants, a Gourmet Coffeehouse, a pool bar and grill, a lobby lounge, Sauna and Whirlpool.
PRIVATE CLUBS/COURTS
ESCAZU
BELLO HORIZONTE COUNTRY CLUB
(2-228-0924)
2 tennis courts, pool area & Restaurant.
MEMBERSHIP: $120/year, 6 months - $70. Maintenance: 10,000/mth. Court time: 1,500-c/hr.
SAN JOSE -
Costa Rica Tennis & Sports Center Club & Hotel
(http://CostaRicaTennisClub.com / http://CRTennis.com / 2-232-1266 / 2-232-3867 / hotel@CRTennis.com / servicioAlsocio@CRTennis.com).
This is a private club that is only open to members, people staying at the hotel right there (below) or go with a member (4,000 colones/day)
They say they’re a World Class Sports Centre with 9 lighted outdoor TENNIS COURTS & 3 indoor TENNIS COURTS, high-tech GYM with everything from dance classes, to aerobics, spinning and they say the best fitness equipment! They have a SPA with Sauna. They have 2 SWIMMING POOLS (1 for training, 1 for fun), a Gymnasium with BASKETBALL COURTS (where they sometimes play the senior basketball world championships), training walls, volleyball court, indoor soccer, outdoor soccer, fronton court, squash, BOWLING ALLEY (with 8 lanes), POOL TABLES, ping pong and table games.
They also have 2 Restaurants, 2 Bars, and 5 Conference Rooms.
COST TO JOIN: I called in & even went & was told it was $2,000/year with no additional fees but both times they were mighty vague on who all that included as I heard them to say that was for the FAMILY (immediate). No say!
HOTEL - Their Hotel Costa Rica Tennis Club
(http://CostaRicaTennisClub.com/rooms.html / 1-888-790-5264 / 2-232-1266) has got to be one of the BEST DEALS in town with rooms with basic decor, Air-Conditioning, Phone, Cable TV, Safe & their rates are only: Standard Room - $60, Superior - $65, Suite - $70 & that rate INCLUDES taxes & breakfast PLUS use of the Tennis Club & Gym!!).
LOCATION: It’s about 1/2 way down the South street that runs parallel to the Pista - across from Sabana Park in Sabana Sur - across the street (on the same side) as the Controlaria (the pyramid-like building). Universal is at the eastern end of the street closest to San Jose.
Curridabat - Indoor Tennis Club (2-225-9344 / http://IndoorClub.com) - indoor - 8, outdoor - 3, POOL (indoor & outdoor), BOWLING (8 lanes), RACQUETBALL (indoor - 4 courts), GYM (Spinning, weights, aerobics), Basketball (indoor), Pool tables, Currently Renovating a lot of the property.
HOURS: Tennis 6am-9pm
COST: Membership - $7,000, Annual $3,500 for the family. Members only, reservation required for tennis.
LOCATION: In front of Mistubsi & Citron & TCBY & EPA
Escazu
Costa Rica Country Club (2-228-9333 /
TENNIS (indoor & outdoors), GOLF (9-hole), RACQUETBALL, POOL, BOWLING, GYM. VERY exclusive/private & EXPENSIVE to join! No day passes.
Cariari
Cariari Country Club (2-293-3211 / http://ClubCariari.com/english/index.html) - TENNIS (12 courts), GOLF (18 hole - considered one of the best in ALL of Central America), POOLS (Olympic-sized - 50 meters long & 25 meters wide, 10 diving stools & 3 small pools for kids & adults), GYM, JACUZZI, SAUNA, STEAM ROOM, Clubhouse, Beauty Salon, Restaurants, Basketball, Beach Volleyball Court
Moravia
Barrio Americano - Club La Guaria
Desamparados
Naranjo Tennis Academy (2-276-9012 / orange@racsa.co.cr) - Clay and hard
Lomas de Ayarco Sur - Swedish Tennis Academy - 3 with lights and roofs
GATED COMMUNITIES
Alujuela (San Rafael de) - Campo Alto (http://concasa.com) - just 800 meters from the new highway being constructed
Curridabat - Condominio Hacienda El Gregal - TENNIS, Clubhouse.
Pinares - Santa Lucia - TENNIS, Rancho, Bbq.
Los Reyes
Escazu (San Rafael) - Alambra
Escazu - Villa de Valencia
Escazu - Hacienda
Escazu - Pamplona
Escazu - Rosalinda
Escazu - Cerro Alto
Escazu - Bello Horizonte - Pool, Tennis Courts
Escazu - Monte Plata
Flamingo - Flamingo Marina Resort
Guacima - Los Reyes (http://LosReyesCR.com) - TENNIS (6 - 3 lit), GOLF (9-hole, Driving Range & Putting Green, guys-Par 70, gals-74 - Pro Mr. Carlos Viquez), POLO (3 fields), POOL, Clubhouse, GYM, Sauna, Aerobics, Water Aerobics, Cycling, SOCCER, Vollyball, Basketball, PingPong, kids games, Horseback Riding, Restaurants. I’ve heard they’re 60% Ticos/Latins & 40% gringos!
Heredia (San Isidro de) - Lomas del Zurqui has TENNIS COURTS, a GREAT Clubhouse with a large POOL, SQUASH courts, GYM & good security. The home sites are large and there are homes built on about 40% of the area so far- some are available for rent.
Jaco - Punta Leona - TENNIS, ping pong, 2 Beach Volleyball, 2 LARGE POOLS (one kiddie pool), 2 great beaches and a beautiful rainfforest surrounding it.
Santa Ana Condos & Santa Ana Park Apartments
PRO AVAILABLE FOR PRIVATE LESSONS:
Gary Zelman (8-832-7567 / 2-228-3505 / GaryZelman49@hotmail.com / http://AMCostaRica.com/zelmanstory.htm)
He is the Pro at the Public Courts in Centro Escazu near the Cemetery (see "Public Courts - Escazu" above) including the new one that should be finished sometime in Nov. Private Lessons: $30/hr. 1, $20/hr/pp 2+
Pozos de Santa Ana
PARQUE VALLE DEL SOL (inside the residential area)
(http://ValleSol.com/tennis.htm / 2-282-9222 x204 or 228 / Tenis@ValleSol.com)
I consistantly hear REALLY positive things about these courts - nice facilities, good trainers & many have said it’s better run than many of the private clubs! They have 10 semi-slow courts - 2 covered/lighted & 8 open air.
COST: Mon.-Fri.-3,000-c/hr, Sat. & Sun.-4,000-c/hr. They also have racket rentals, racket stringing service, locker rooms wtih showers, drinks for sale & a sports shop.
And an 18 hole, 18 hole, Par for course: 72, professional championship GOLF COURSE (2-282-9222 x218) designed by Tracy May, under the supervision and advice of Club Corporation of America (CCA) and International Management Group (IMG). They have Golf Cart rentals, Driving Range, Putting Green, Golf Academy, Gold equipment rental, Golf Lessons, a Pro-Shop, Snack Bar.
HOURS:
LOCATION: 1700 meters West of Banco Banex off the road off the Pista heading towards the airport
Escazu - Centro - Rosa Linda
Not sure of the name but there’s a pubic court (with a new one being built there & opening in Nov.) in Centro Escazu - past Snoopy’s bar/restaurant on right - just after the bridge - across from the cemetary. 100 mts West of cemetary & 50 mts north.
HOURS: 6am-5pm.
COST: $1,500-c/hr.
RESERVATION: It’s MUI COMPLICATED - First you have to call the Escazu Sports Committee (2-289-9432 - note - NO ONE in their speaks any English). Then, MY understanding of this is you HAVE to go to their office between 8am-5pm (up the hill from the Scotia Split in Centro Escazu behind Escazu High School / Liceo Escazu) to pay, receive a receipt & the key, then you go play & if no one is right after you, you have to take the key back (otherwise you just pass the key onto the next person).
Jaboncillo area
San Jose - Sabana Park
3 courts & pick up games from 8-9am
HOTELS
There are a few hotels where non-guests can pay daily:
Escazu
Real InterContinental
(2-208-2100 / http://ICHotelsgroup.com/intercontinental/en/gb/locations/overview/costarica-sanjose)
Their 1/one TENNIS COURT (outside, lit, synthetic surface) IS open to non-hotel guests by reservation.
COST: Daily - 6am-6pm-5,000-c/hr, 6-9pm - 7,500-c/hr. (xt. 2159)
The hotel also has a Fitness Center, Spa, Pool
NEAR SJO AIRPORT -
Alajuela
BEST WESTERN IRAZU (2-232-4811-courts xt. 2761/ http://book.bestwestern.com/bestwestern/productInfo.do?iata=&promoCode=&corpID=&propertyCode=70604 / 2-290-9300-hotel)
Their 2/two lit TENNIS COURTS ARE open to non-hotel guests by reservation*
COST: Non-hotel guests pay a $130/year Membership Fee & can use the courts whenever they can get a reservation. Lessons - 7,000/hr. PRO: Gilbert (8-821-8835) who speaks good English.
LOCATION: Km 3 Autopista General Canas
For hotel guests, the property also has a Pool, one of the largest Casinos in Costa Rica, Denny's Restaurant, Hertz Rent-A-Car, La Cantina Bar, tour desks by Gray Line Costa Rica, souvenir shop, Pizza Hut, and Burger King "touch button" for delivery service, Laundry service, room service, Gym, landscaped gardens, massage and sauna.
Belen
El Rodeo (2-293-3909 / http://ElRodeoHotel.com)
Their 1 TENNIS COURT IS open to non-hotel guests by reservation.
COST: 2,000-c/hr. HOURS: 6am-6pm (no lights).
For guests - the hotel also has a Pool, Jacuzzi and Conference Rooms
Cariari
Melia Cariari - 10 Tennis Courts, championship 18 hole Golf Course, small Casino, Disco, Olympic-size Pool, Health Club, Sauna, Whirlpool, Gym, Conference Center, 3 Restaurants (from Country Club next door??)
La Garita de Alajuela
Martino Resort & Med Spa - Spa area with Sauna, steam bath, a big, very good equipped and all around glazed fitness area with view of the surrounding gardens, as well as a big swimming pool. To the hotel also belong an Italian Gourmet-restaurant, tennis-court, conference room and casino.
Cariari - Ramada Inn Herradura
Corobici Hotel - Casino, Spa, Convention Center, Tennis Court, Fitness & Beauty. 3 minutes from downtown SJ
Belen (San Antonio de)
MARRIOTT (2-298-0124-courts / 2-298-0000-hotel)
Their 3 TENNIS COURTS are NOT open to non-hotel guests. Lessons - $30/hr.
LOCATION: 700 Metros West of Firestone Tire factory.
GOLF COURSE with a Driving Range, rentals, lessons, Practice Range.
For hotel guests, they also have 2 Pools with pool bar, 4 restaurants, a Gourmet Coffeehouse, a pool bar and grill, a lobby lounge, Sauna and Whirlpool.
PRIVATE CLUBS/COURTS
ESCAZU
BELLO HORIZONTE COUNTRY CLUB
(2-228-0924)
2 tennis courts, pool area & Restaurant.
MEMBERSHIP: $120/year, 6 months - $70. Maintenance: 10,000/mth. Court time: 1,500-c/hr.
SAN JOSE -
Costa Rica Tennis & Sports Center Club & Hotel
(http://CostaRicaTennisClub.com / http://CRTennis.com / 2-232-1266 / 2-232-3867 / hotel@CRTennis.com / servicioAlsocio@CRTennis.com).
This is a private club that is only open to members, people staying at the hotel right there (below) or go with a member (4,000 colones/day)
They say they’re a World Class Sports Centre with 9 lighted outdoor TENNIS COURTS & 3 indoor TENNIS COURTS, high-tech GYM with everything from dance classes, to aerobics, spinning and they say the best fitness equipment! They have a SPA with Sauna. They have 2 SWIMMING POOLS (1 for training, 1 for fun), a Gymnasium with BASKETBALL COURTS (where they sometimes play the senior basketball world championships), training walls, volleyball court, indoor soccer, outdoor soccer, fronton court, squash, BOWLING ALLEY (with 8 lanes), POOL TABLES, ping pong and table games.
They also have 2 Restaurants, 2 Bars, and 5 Conference Rooms.
COST TO JOIN: I called in & even went & was told it was $2,000/year with no additional fees but both times they were mighty vague on who all that included as I heard them to say that was for the FAMILY (immediate). No say!
HOTEL - Their Hotel Costa Rica Tennis Club
(http://CostaRicaTennisClub.com/rooms.html / 1-888-790-5264 / 2-232-1266) has got to be one of the BEST DEALS in town with rooms with basic decor, Air-Conditioning, Phone, Cable TV, Safe & their rates are only: Standard Room - $60, Superior - $65, Suite - $70 & that rate INCLUDES taxes & breakfast PLUS use of the Tennis Club & Gym!!).
LOCATION: It’s about 1/2 way down the South street that runs parallel to the Pista - across from Sabana Park in Sabana Sur - across the street (on the same side) as the Controlaria (the pyramid-like building). Universal is at the eastern end of the street closest to San Jose.
Curridabat - Indoor Tennis Club (2-225-9344 / http://IndoorClub.com) - indoor - 8, outdoor - 3, POOL (indoor & outdoor), BOWLING (8 lanes), RACQUETBALL (indoor - 4 courts), GYM (Spinning, weights, aerobics), Basketball (indoor), Pool tables, Currently Renovating a lot of the property.
HOURS: Tennis 6am-9pm
COST: Membership - $7,000, Annual $3,500 for the family. Members only, reservation required for tennis.
LOCATION: In front of Mistubsi & Citron & TCBY & EPA
Escazu
Costa Rica Country Club (2-228-9333 /
TENNIS (indoor & outdoors), GOLF (9-hole), RACQUETBALL, POOL, BOWLING, GYM. VERY exclusive/private & EXPENSIVE to join! No day passes.
Cariari
Cariari Country Club (2-293-3211 / http://ClubCariari.com/english/index.html) - TENNIS (12 courts), GOLF (18 hole - considered one of the best in ALL of Central America), POOLS (Olympic-sized - 50 meters long & 25 meters wide, 10 diving stools & 3 small pools for kids & adults), GYM, JACUZZI, SAUNA, STEAM ROOM, Clubhouse, Beauty Salon, Restaurants, Basketball, Beach Volleyball Court
Moravia
Barrio Americano - Club La Guaria
Desamparados
Naranjo Tennis Academy (2-276-9012 / orange@racsa.co.cr) - Clay and hard
Lomas de Ayarco Sur - Swedish Tennis Academy - 3 with lights and roofs
GATED COMMUNITIES
Alujuela (San Rafael de) - Campo Alto (http://concasa.com) - just 800 meters from the new highway being constructed
Curridabat - Condominio Hacienda El Gregal - TENNIS, Clubhouse.
Pinares - Santa Lucia - TENNIS, Rancho, Bbq.
Los Reyes
Escazu (San Rafael) - Alambra
Escazu - Villa de Valencia
Escazu - Hacienda
Escazu - Pamplona
Escazu - Rosalinda
Escazu - Cerro Alto
Escazu - Bello Horizonte - Pool, Tennis Courts
Escazu - Monte Plata
Flamingo - Flamingo Marina Resort
Guacima - Los Reyes (http://LosReyesCR.com) - TENNIS (6 - 3 lit), GOLF (9-hole, Driving Range & Putting Green, guys-Par 70, gals-74 - Pro Mr. Carlos Viquez), POLO (3 fields), POOL, Clubhouse, GYM, Sauna, Aerobics, Water Aerobics, Cycling, SOCCER, Vollyball, Basketball, PingPong, kids games, Horseback Riding, Restaurants. I’ve heard they’re 60% Ticos/Latins & 40% gringos!
Heredia (San Isidro de) - Lomas del Zurqui has TENNIS COURTS, a GREAT Clubhouse with a large POOL, SQUASH courts, GYM & good security. The home sites are large and there are homes built on about 40% of the area so far- some are available for rent.
Jaco - Punta Leona - TENNIS, ping pong, 2 Beach Volleyball, 2 LARGE POOLS (one kiddie pool), 2 great beaches and a beautiful rainfforest surrounding it.
Santa Ana Condos & Santa Ana Park Apartments
PRO AVAILABLE FOR PRIVATE LESSONS:
Gary Zelman (8-832-7567 / 2-228-3505 / GaryZelman49@hotmail.com / http://AMCostaRica.com/zelmanstory.htm)
He is the Pro at the Public Courts in Centro Escazu near the Cemetery (see "Public Courts - Escazu" above) including the new one that should be finished sometime in Nov. Private Lessons: $30/hr. 1, $20/hr/pp 2+
Sunday, October 19, 2008
BOWLING in Costa Rica
BOWLING - Boliche Dent
(2-253-5745 / 2-234-8840 / 2-234-2777? / mauboliche@yahoo.com)
Oct. 11-18., ‘08 is a BIG International tournament - “Cultural Encounter Day” celebrating Columbus Day (http://torneodelaraza.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=39) - contact Arnoldo Pinto (2-253-5745 / 2-234-9624 / 2-268-6348 / boldent@racsa.co.cr) or
CONTACTS: Mauricio Murillo (8-828-8359 / 2-268-6348 / mauboliche@hotmail.com)
HOURS: Daily 11am-midnight
COST: 9,000/hour per lane (up to 6 players), shoes-800-c.
DIRECTIONS: San Jose - Barrio Escalante (I’ve also seen Los Yoses) - Avenida Central & Calle 23 - I’ve seen 50, 100 and also 150 meters north of the AM/PM Gas Station. I’ve also seen1 block North of the American-Costa Rican Cultural Center.
(2-253-5745 / 2-234-8840 / 2-234-2777? / mauboliche@yahoo.com)
Oct. 11-18., ‘08 is a BIG International tournament - “Cultural Encounter Day” celebrating Columbus Day (http://torneodelaraza.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=39) - contact Arnoldo Pinto (2-253-5745 / 2-234-9624 / 2-268-6348 / boldent@racsa.co.cr) or
CONTACTS: Mauricio Murillo (8-828-8359 / 2-268-6348 / mauboliche@hotmail.com)
HOURS: Daily 11am-midnight
COST: 9,000/hour per lane (up to 6 players), shoes-800-c.
DIRECTIONS: San Jose - Barrio Escalante (I’ve also seen Los Yoses) - Avenida Central & Calle 23 - I’ve seen 50, 100 and also 150 meters north of the AM/PM Gas Station. I’ve also seen1 block North of the American-Costa Rican Cultural Center.
Wednesday, October 8, 2008
Sighting! NEW! Natural Cleaning Products at AutoMercado!
EXCITING NEWS!! For about the past month AutoMercado stores throughout Costa Rica have been carrying not one but TWO lineS of Natural Cleaning Products!
Ecos Earth Friendly Products from the U.S. (http:ecos.com)
Ecos says they did NO animal testing & uses NO animal products!
I saw: laundry detergent in various scents/types including for babies, liquid dishwashing detergent - even a dishwashER rinse aid!! The list they gave me said they also have a starch for ironing & a few other items I can't translate.
&
Ecover (http://ecover.com/xx/en) from Belgium.
From what I could gather they don't do any animal testing but I couldn't find info on if they use any animal bi-products in their products.
I saw: all purpose cleaner, glass & surface cleaner, liquid dishwashing detergent, laundry detergent, softener.
Here's a BIG THANX to AutoMercado for bringing more conscious products to mainstream Costa Rica & hopes of bringing more & more of their products here!!
Anyone else have other sightings of conscious/healthy products?
Please share!
Vicki
Ecos Earth Friendly Products from the U.S. (http:ecos.com)
Ecos says they did NO animal testing & uses NO animal products!
I saw: laundry detergent in various scents/types including for babies, liquid dishwashing detergent - even a dishwashER rinse aid!! The list they gave me said they also have a starch for ironing & a few other items I can't translate.
&
Ecover (http://ecover.com/xx/en) from Belgium.
From what I could gather they don't do any animal testing but I couldn't find info on if they use any animal bi-products in their products.
I saw: all purpose cleaner, glass & surface cleaner, liquid dishwashing detergent, laundry detergent, softener.
Here's a BIG THANX to AutoMercado for bringing more conscious products to mainstream Costa Rica & hopes of bringing more & more of their products here!!
Anyone else have other sightings of conscious/healthy products?
Please share!
Vicki
Friday, September 26, 2008
U.S. CITIZENS LIVING IN COSTA RICA - VOTING FROM ABROAD IN THE 2008 PRESIDENTIAL ELECTION - WHAT TO DO – ABSENTEE VOTING
THIS IS NOT AN OFFICIAL SITE - JUST A CITIZEN SHARIN' MY PERCEPTION OF THE INFO I HAVE JUST GATHERED (which at times has had 1-4 Different versions from the same agency!):
U.S. Citizen? Want to vote for this VERY IMPORTANT upcoming election? Didn't receive your Absentee Ballot yet? Or have it but don't know what to do with it? You have options!!
I AM NOT REGISTERED TO VOTE ABSENTEE & GET HOW IMPORTANT THIS ELECTION IS!!! WHAT CAN I DO?
Most states require you to register to vote at least 30 days before an election so it MAY be too late for you to register. To find out if you've missed the deadline to apply, check out the requirements from the LAST state you lived in at: http://fvap.gov/overseas-citizens/request-registration-absentee-ballot/index.html
Every day I'm learning more & more! Like today I learned that 6 states have "Election Day Registration" meaning you don't have to pre-register - Idaho, Maine, Minnesota, New Hampshire, Wisconsin & Wyoming.
I also just learned that when you're in the states - thanx to the "Motor Voter Act" Clinton signed in in '93 - providing uniform registration services through any drivers' license registration centers, disability centers, schools, libraries, and mail-in registration (I've often done it at post offices who usually have the forms [based on my experience] & take it of course).
Now, with that info, if you've missed your deadline, you can be your average Sheeple & accept what you've been told & beat yourself up for life if your candidate didn't win & the country went even MORE to hell in a hand-basket - because YOU didn't vote (of course, thanx to the Electoral College - do you REALLY have a "democracy" with an Electoral College that does NOT give you "one person - one vote"? But I gotta live with MY conscious & at least TRY!!) - OR - maybe they'll see my app came from a different country & they'll take pity & input me anyways! Hey - it can't hurt to at least TRY. Maybe it will come through ok - maybe not, but at least you will have TRIED.
I HAVE REGISTERED IN THE PAST AS AN OVERSEES / ABSENTEE VOTER. DO I NEED TO REGISTER AGAIN TO VOTE THIS TIME?
I have heard a few different stories on this from a few different "reliable sources" so do what ya want with it. I've heard that filling out the form as an Oversees Voter is like doing a change of address as THIS is my home (for now)!! I applied at the Primary Election & voted lying in a bed in the hotel room Democrats Abroad used for voting (my friend voted sitting on the toilet!! I wish we had a pic of that!! Now THAT's devoted!!!).
I've heard that some states purge their records so to be safe (ESPECIALLY in this CRUCIAL election!!!), you might want to contact the Registrar of Voters in the county you last voted in.
With that said, I STILL haven't received my Absentee Ballot, THOUGH, they HAVE found me to send all that junk mail solicitation from the various politicians (the ones that KILL TREES!! I wish they had a box that we could check off that said "Do NOT send me any of your tree killing/hate Mother Nature propiganda!!" [I know I said I'd cut back on TWAV but I HAD to get this off my chest!!])!!
For me (that's ALL I can "advise" for), I still haven't received my Absentee Ballot from my state though I voted absentee in the primary & I didn't do the new form for this election (I missed the deadline before learning about the potential for purging) - I'm just going to trust all will be ok & vote!
I RECEIVED ALL MY PAPERWORK BUT I LIVE IN COSTA RICA & DON'T WANT TO MAIL IT FROM SNAIL MAIL FROM HERE. WHAT DO I DO WITH IT?
You can drop it off at the:
• U.S. Embassy in Pavas - Mon.-Fri. from 8-11:30am at the Consular's Section - American Citizen's Services Counter (2-519-2000).
Make sure to bring your Passport to get in along with your COMPLETED ballot! When you get there, if you see a LONG line of Latin's, they're there trying to get visas to visit the states & such so just walk past them to the front door. Note you MUST leave your cell phone/all electronic devices at the front entrance!
IMPORTANT!!! I spoke to the head of ACS today, Oct. 10 & she shared the VERY unfortunate news that as of TODAY, they ONLY have a FEW Emergency Write-In Ballots left!!! (they [not the Embassy as our government actually CHARGES to U.S. Embassy in CR for ALL the voting materials!! It comes out of their budget!!] REALLY don't want us to vote do they??? I also heard from other sources that MANY states are having a hard time keeping up with the printing as SOOOO MANY people are FINALLY registering to vote [it's about time!!!])!
NOTE: You can NOT go into any booth & vote here! You ONLY go to DROP OFF your ballot!! They can NOT advise you if you're registered! They can NOT guarantee your ballot will be accepted!!!!! They DO have a copy of the Voter's Guide that you can LOOK at (if you don't like/have access to the internet).
• Many of the mail delivery services are offering FREE drop-off/delivery service including: http://MailboxesEtc.co.cr - Escazu, Santa Ana/Forum, Curridabat & Playa Langosta) (Neal ships them out once they get at least 10 or so together & Neal said that if you don't have the "official" envelope, not to worry about the postage - Mailboxes, etc. will pay for it [now that's mighty civic of them!!!])
http://AeroCasillas.com
http://DHL.com
(I've heard that FedEx may send them out bulk, not stamping them properly which to me is CRUCIAL)
Do you know of any others to add to this list?
• SAT. OCT. 25 - 9:30am-12:30pm - Democrats Abroad's Monthly Meeting at the Holiday Inn-Aurola in Downtown San Jose, 3rd floor meeting rooms. Of course there will be political discussions plus ya'll will get to discuss what you'd like to see from Democrats Abroad in the future & discuss the upcoming board elections.
LOCATION: Calle 5 & Avenida 5, on the north side of Morzan Park (need more directions? Call 2-523-1000)
CONTACT: DACR Chairman Paul Kloes at cr.DemocratsAbroad@yahoo.com or call him at 2-215-4254
• DAILY 8am-8pm - Democrats Abroad member Vicki's home in Escazu - ultra-conveniently located ON Calle Vieja near Calle Country Club - on the Santa Ana-Calle Vieja bus route that comes from the Coca-Cola Building in San Jose. You MUST have it to her at the LATEST, BY 8am on Mon. Oct. 27. Paul Kloes picks them up here twice a week & delivers them to the Embassy. Contact Vicki at 8-378-6679 / SarongGoddess@gmail.com for directions.
I DIDN'T RECEIVE ANYTHING IN THE MAIL YET BUT I REALLY WANT TO VOTE. WHAT DO I DO?
IMMEDIATELY go to https://VoteFromAbroad.org/regwizard.php (I've heard more people preferring this one) or http://fvap.gov/overseas-citizens/index.html to DOWNLOAD the Federal Write-In Absentee Ballot (FWAB) / the "Official Federal Write-In Absentee Ballot".
CLEAR INSTRUCTIONS ON HOW TO DO THIS PROPERLY (some people have had some confusion so I welcome you to follow it step-by-step):
This write-in ballot, or FWAB, is your ticket to voting despite delays over which you have no control. Wondering where your ballot is? Think about how good or bad the mails are where you live. If you have any doubt about whether your state-issued ballot would reach your local voting official back in the U.S. if you wait another day, wait no longer. Thank Dave Froelich (former chair of Democrats Abroad-Israel and activist extraordinaire) and use the FWAB!
Using the Federal Write-in Absentee Ballot
The FWAB is a back-up ballot that you can vote TODAY. If you subsequently receive your state ballot, vote that, too. The FWAB is only counted if your state ballot is not received by your state by the ballot return deadline.
1. Get the FWAB: Go to http://VoteFromAbroad.org. Simply answer the 6 screens of questions and download and print the 9 page document. You will receive (1) Instructions (where you will find the address to send the FWAB), (2) Electronic Transmission Sheet and Federal Postcard Application (which you do NOT need); (3) The Federal Write-in Absentee Ballot, which includes a Voter's Declaration/Affirmation, the Ballot and Instructions.
2. Sign and Date the Voter's Declaration/Affirmation: When you use http://VoteFromAbroad.org, the Voter's Declaration/Affirmation will be filled in based upon your voting state's requirements and the information you provided. You just need to review the information, sign and date it. Check the following list to see if you need a witness or additional documentation.
* Alabama: 2 witnesses OR Notary (must be over the age of 18)
* Alaska: 1 witness (dated and signed)
* Arizona: Proof of Citizenship (copy of passport or birth certificate)
* Louisiana: 2 witnesses (sign on voter's declaration form)
* Minnesota: Self Certification by putting passport number or last 4 digits of SSN on ballot return envelope
* North Carolina: 2 witnesses (must be over 18 sign and include address)
* South Carolina: 1 witness (sign on the voter's declaration form)
* Virginia: 1 witness (sign on the voter's declaration form)
* Wisconsin: 1 witness (both voter and witness must sign security envelope; witness must be a U.S. Citizen, over 18)
3. Vote the FWAB: You can either write in the candidate's name or the word Democrat or Republican. (It is unlikely that you will need the second page of the ballot). To find out who the candidates are for House and Senate, please click here. To find your Congressional District, click here, enter your voting zip code, and then click on "current election."
4. Seal the Ballot Envelope: Put your voted FWAB ONLY in a plain white envelope and seal it. Write on the outside of the envelope "Security Envelope."
5. In the Mailing Envelope: Put the sealed "Security Envelope" and the Signed and Dated Voter's Declaration/Affirmation in a mailing envelope.
6. Enter Return Address: Write your name and current mailing address in the upper left hand corner of the mailing envelope.
7. Address the Envelope: Write the address of your Local Election Office on the mailing envelope. The address of your Local Election Office is provided on your customized information sheet.
8. Double Check: Double check that you have completed everything.
9. Ensure evidence of mailing from outside the US:
* Foreign Postmark: Affix the appropriate postage. All states will accept a foreign postmark as evidence of submission from outside the U.S.
* Consular Stamp: All states have been informed by the U.S. State Department that they should accept a consular stamp as evidence of submission from outside the U.S. Using the consular service results in your mailing envelope being placed in the US postal system. Affix a $0.42 U.S. Postage Stamp.
* Commercial Courier: Some states will also accept a commercial courier service waybill as evidence of submission from outside the U.S. Using a courier service should be a last resort. Alabama explicitly refuses to accept materials sent to them by commercial couriers, such as Federal Express and DHL. If using a courier, please staple a copy of the air waybill to the ballot envelope prior to sealing the courier envelope.
10. Seal the addressed envelope - and Mail your FWAB Today!
More questions? Contact our experts at VoterCentral@DemocratsAbroad.org
What are you waiting for? Do the FWAB today!
IMPORTANT!!! When downloading this, in order to get FREE POSTAGE, you MUST ALSO download the "Affixed Postage Paid Envelope Templete" - otherwise YOU MUST provide the stamp (currently 42¢).
NOTE: If you forgot to download this envelope & you drop it off at one of Neil's above mentioned Mailbox, Etc., THEY will pay for the postage once it ships from Miami to YOUR states voting office!!!
WHEN DO I NEED TO GET IT IN THE MAIL BY?
Most places I've seen say by Nov. 4 (one even said the 10th I believe). OK - I'm not the smartest apple that's fallen from the cart but IF I mailed to BY Nov. 4 (Election Day), wouldn't that basically mean that my vote did NOT count?? Maybe in the FINAL tally but do they count that really? To allow for time for it to be overnighted to Miami (does it take 1 or 2 days from CR??), THEN, time for the U.S. Post Office to do their job (don't EVEN get me going on my faith/trust in them. Needless to say, I'm giving them more time) to get my ballot to the proper state (luckily mine goes to Florida!), I'm sending mine out on or before the 27th with the Democrats Abroad final mailing!!
≠ ≠ ≠ ≠ ≠ ≠ ≠ ≠ ≠ ≠ ≠ ≠ ≠ ≠ ≠ ≠ ≠ ≠ ≠ ≠ ≠ ≠ ≠ ≠
PLEASE forward this to EVERY U.S. citizen you know!!
Vicki
(for the latest update go to:
http://LivingLifeInCostaRica.blogspot.com/2008/09/us-citizens-living-in-costa-rica-voting.html
U.S. Citizen? Want to vote for this VERY IMPORTANT upcoming election? Didn't receive your Absentee Ballot yet? Or have it but don't know what to do with it? You have options!!
I AM NOT REGISTERED TO VOTE ABSENTEE & GET HOW IMPORTANT THIS ELECTION IS!!! WHAT CAN I DO?
Most states require you to register to vote at least 30 days before an election so it MAY be too late for you to register. To find out if you've missed the deadline to apply, check out the requirements from the LAST state you lived in at: http://fvap.gov/overseas-citizens/request-registration-absentee-ballot/index.html
Every day I'm learning more & more! Like today I learned that 6 states have "Election Day Registration" meaning you don't have to pre-register - Idaho, Maine, Minnesota, New Hampshire, Wisconsin & Wyoming.
I also just learned that when you're in the states - thanx to the "Motor Voter Act" Clinton signed in in '93 - providing uniform registration services through any drivers' license registration centers, disability centers, schools, libraries, and mail-in registration (I've often done it at post offices who usually have the forms [based on my experience] & take it of course).
Now, with that info, if you've missed your deadline, you can be your average Sheeple & accept what you've been told & beat yourself up for life if your candidate didn't win & the country went even MORE to hell in a hand-basket - because YOU didn't vote (of course, thanx to the Electoral College - do you REALLY have a "democracy" with an Electoral College that does NOT give you "one person - one vote"? But I gotta live with MY conscious & at least TRY!!) - OR - maybe they'll see my app came from a different country & they'll take pity & input me anyways! Hey - it can't hurt to at least TRY. Maybe it will come through ok - maybe not, but at least you will have TRIED.
I HAVE REGISTERED IN THE PAST AS AN OVERSEES / ABSENTEE VOTER. DO I NEED TO REGISTER AGAIN TO VOTE THIS TIME?
I have heard a few different stories on this from a few different "reliable sources" so do what ya want with it. I've heard that filling out the form as an Oversees Voter is like doing a change of address as THIS is my home (for now)!! I applied at the Primary Election & voted lying in a bed in the hotel room Democrats Abroad used for voting (my friend voted sitting on the toilet!! I wish we had a pic of that!! Now THAT's devoted!!!).
I've heard that some states purge their records so to be safe (ESPECIALLY in this CRUCIAL election!!!), you might want to contact the Registrar of Voters in the county you last voted in.
With that said, I STILL haven't received my Absentee Ballot, THOUGH, they HAVE found me to send all that junk mail solicitation from the various politicians (the ones that KILL TREES!! I wish they had a box that we could check off that said "Do NOT send me any of your tree killing/hate Mother Nature propiganda!!" [I know I said I'd cut back on TWAV but I HAD to get this off my chest!!])!!
For me (that's ALL I can "advise" for), I still haven't received my Absentee Ballot from my state though I voted absentee in the primary & I didn't do the new form for this election (I missed the deadline before learning about the potential for purging) - I'm just going to trust all will be ok & vote!
I RECEIVED ALL MY PAPERWORK BUT I LIVE IN COSTA RICA & DON'T WANT TO MAIL IT FROM SNAIL MAIL FROM HERE. WHAT DO I DO WITH IT?
You can drop it off at the:
• U.S. Embassy in Pavas - Mon.-Fri. from 8-11:30am at the Consular's Section - American Citizen's Services Counter (2-519-2000).
Make sure to bring your Passport to get in along with your COMPLETED ballot! When you get there, if you see a LONG line of Latin's, they're there trying to get visas to visit the states & such so just walk past them to the front door. Note you MUST leave your cell phone/all electronic devices at the front entrance!
IMPORTANT!!! I spoke to the head of ACS today, Oct. 10 & she shared the VERY unfortunate news that as of TODAY, they ONLY have a FEW Emergency Write-In Ballots left!!! (they [not the Embassy as our government actually CHARGES to U.S. Embassy in CR for ALL the voting materials!! It comes out of their budget!!] REALLY don't want us to vote do they??? I also heard from other sources that MANY states are having a hard time keeping up with the printing as SOOOO MANY people are FINALLY registering to vote [it's about time!!!])!
NOTE: You can NOT go into any booth & vote here! You ONLY go to DROP OFF your ballot!! They can NOT advise you if you're registered! They can NOT guarantee your ballot will be accepted!!!!! They DO have a copy of the Voter's Guide that you can LOOK at (if you don't like/have access to the internet).
• Many of the mail delivery services are offering FREE drop-off/delivery service including: http://MailboxesEtc.co.cr - Escazu, Santa Ana/Forum, Curridabat & Playa Langosta) (Neal ships them out once they get at least 10 or so together & Neal said that if you don't have the "official" envelope, not to worry about the postage - Mailboxes, etc. will pay for it [now that's mighty civic of them!!!])
http://AeroCasillas.com
http://DHL.com
(I've heard that FedEx may send them out bulk, not stamping them properly which to me is CRUCIAL)
Do you know of any others to add to this list?
• SAT. OCT. 25 - 9:30am-12:30pm - Democrats Abroad's Monthly Meeting at the Holiday Inn-Aurola in Downtown San Jose, 3rd floor meeting rooms. Of course there will be political discussions plus ya'll will get to discuss what you'd like to see from Democrats Abroad in the future & discuss the upcoming board elections.
LOCATION: Calle 5 & Avenida 5, on the north side of Morzan Park (need more directions? Call 2-523-1000)
CONTACT: DACR Chairman Paul Kloes at cr.DemocratsAbroad@yahoo.com or call him at 2-215-4254
• DAILY 8am-8pm - Democrats Abroad member Vicki's home in Escazu - ultra-conveniently located ON Calle Vieja near Calle Country Club - on the Santa Ana-Calle Vieja bus route that comes from the Coca-Cola Building in San Jose. You MUST have it to her at the LATEST, BY 8am on Mon. Oct. 27. Paul Kloes picks them up here twice a week & delivers them to the Embassy. Contact Vicki at 8-378-6679 / SarongGoddess@gmail.com for directions.
I DIDN'T RECEIVE ANYTHING IN THE MAIL YET BUT I REALLY WANT TO VOTE. WHAT DO I DO?
IMMEDIATELY go to https://VoteFromAbroad.org/regwizard.php (I've heard more people preferring this one) or http://fvap.gov/overseas-citizens/index.html to DOWNLOAD the Federal Write-In Absentee Ballot (FWAB) / the "Official Federal Write-In Absentee Ballot".
CLEAR INSTRUCTIONS ON HOW TO DO THIS PROPERLY (some people have had some confusion so I welcome you to follow it step-by-step):
This write-in ballot, or FWAB, is your ticket to voting despite delays over which you have no control. Wondering where your ballot is? Think about how good or bad the mails are where you live. If you have any doubt about whether your state-issued ballot would reach your local voting official back in the U.S. if you wait another day, wait no longer. Thank Dave Froelich (former chair of Democrats Abroad-Israel and activist extraordinaire) and use the FWAB!
Using the Federal Write-in Absentee Ballot
The FWAB is a back-up ballot that you can vote TODAY. If you subsequently receive your state ballot, vote that, too. The FWAB is only counted if your state ballot is not received by your state by the ballot return deadline.
1. Get the FWAB: Go to http://VoteFromAbroad.org. Simply answer the 6 screens of questions and download and print the 9 page document. You will receive (1) Instructions (where you will find the address to send the FWAB), (2) Electronic Transmission Sheet and Federal Postcard Application (which you do NOT need); (3) The Federal Write-in Absentee Ballot, which includes a Voter's Declaration/Affirmation, the Ballot and Instructions.
2. Sign and Date the Voter's Declaration/Affirmation: When you use http://VoteFromAbroad.org, the Voter's Declaration/Affirmation will be filled in based upon your voting state's requirements and the information you provided. You just need to review the information, sign and date it. Check the following list to see if you need a witness or additional documentation.
* Alabama: 2 witnesses OR Notary (must be over the age of 18)
* Alaska: 1 witness (dated and signed)
* Arizona: Proof of Citizenship (copy of passport or birth certificate)
* Louisiana: 2 witnesses (sign on voter's declaration form)
* Minnesota: Self Certification by putting passport number or last 4 digits of SSN on ballot return envelope
* North Carolina: 2 witnesses (must be over 18 sign and include address)
* South Carolina: 1 witness (sign on the voter's declaration form)
* Virginia: 1 witness (sign on the voter's declaration form)
* Wisconsin: 1 witness (both voter and witness must sign security envelope; witness must be a U.S. Citizen, over 18)
3. Vote the FWAB: You can either write in the candidate's name or the word Democrat or Republican. (It is unlikely that you will need the second page of the ballot). To find out who the candidates are for House and Senate, please click here. To find your Congressional District, click here, enter your voting zip code, and then click on "current election."
4. Seal the Ballot Envelope: Put your voted FWAB ONLY in a plain white envelope and seal it. Write on the outside of the envelope "Security Envelope."
5. In the Mailing Envelope: Put the sealed "Security Envelope" and the Signed and Dated Voter's Declaration/Affirmation in a mailing envelope.
6. Enter Return Address: Write your name and current mailing address in the upper left hand corner of the mailing envelope.
7. Address the Envelope: Write the address of your Local Election Office on the mailing envelope. The address of your Local Election Office is provided on your customized information sheet.
8. Double Check: Double check that you have completed everything.
9. Ensure evidence of mailing from outside the US:
* Foreign Postmark: Affix the appropriate postage. All states will accept a foreign postmark as evidence of submission from outside the U.S.
* Consular Stamp: All states have been informed by the U.S. State Department that they should accept a consular stamp as evidence of submission from outside the U.S. Using the consular service results in your mailing envelope being placed in the US postal system. Affix a $0.42 U.S. Postage Stamp.
* Commercial Courier: Some states will also accept a commercial courier service waybill as evidence of submission from outside the U.S. Using a courier service should be a last resort. Alabama explicitly refuses to accept materials sent to them by commercial couriers, such as Federal Express and DHL. If using a courier, please staple a copy of the air waybill to the ballot envelope prior to sealing the courier envelope.
10. Seal the addressed envelope - and Mail your FWAB Today!
More questions? Contact our experts at VoterCentral@DemocratsAbroad.org
What are you waiting for? Do the FWAB today!
IMPORTANT!!! When downloading this, in order to get FREE POSTAGE, you MUST ALSO download the "Affixed Postage Paid Envelope Templete" - otherwise YOU MUST provide the stamp (currently 42¢).
NOTE: If you forgot to download this envelope & you drop it off at one of Neil's above mentioned Mailbox, Etc., THEY will pay for the postage once it ships from Miami to YOUR states voting office!!!
WHEN DO I NEED TO GET IT IN THE MAIL BY?
Most places I've seen say by Nov. 4 (one even said the 10th I believe). OK - I'm not the smartest apple that's fallen from the cart but IF I mailed to BY Nov. 4 (Election Day), wouldn't that basically mean that my vote did NOT count?? Maybe in the FINAL tally but do they count that really? To allow for time for it to be overnighted to Miami (does it take 1 or 2 days from CR??), THEN, time for the U.S. Post Office to do their job (don't EVEN get me going on my faith/trust in them. Needless to say, I'm giving them more time) to get my ballot to the proper state (luckily mine goes to Florida!), I'm sending mine out on or before the 27th with the Democrats Abroad final mailing!!
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PLEASE forward this to EVERY U.S. citizen you know!!
Vicki
(for the latest update go to:
http://LivingLifeInCostaRica.blogspot.com/2008/09/us-citizens-living-in-costa-rica-voting.html
Wednesday, September 17, 2008
MASSAGE THERAPISTS in Costa Rica (Legit)
MASSAGE PEOPLE / MASSEUSES / MASAJISTAS LIST
Here is a list of some MASSAGE THERAPISTS/people I and others have used or connected with in the Central Valley (mainly in the West-end).Like with EVERYTHING in life - ESPECIALLY when it's our body, it's CRUCIAL that people speak their truth if something does not feel good/not working - says what they like or don't - otherwise THEY are responsible for their results (or lack thereof).
PLEASE add on/share your favs (or yourself!!) and add to the list (phone # is crucial as is location [or if they come to you], styles and price)!!
NOTE: Some people have complained about the prices of some of the therapists. Here's my take/experience on CHEAP MASSAGE PEOPLE VS. MORE EXPENSIVE ONES: My EXTENSIVE experience is ya get what ya pay for!! 99% of the cheap Tico Massage people (they're usually not "therapists") I’ve found/experienced have NO formal training (and it SHOWS by MY standards!!). Also, training in CR is WAYYYYY cheaper than training in the States. Plus training here is pretty much basic/standard techniques. The cheap ones tend to be EXACTLY an hour (which to me isn't tapping into my bodies needs). Also, it’s going to cost you more if someone comes to you (since they’ll often be traveling by bus for an hour or so) - depending on where you live.
I SERIOUSLY welcome you to bring your own music - otherwise you’ll get whatever the massauese brings (I mention this as I’m listening to some classical music with cymbals, etc. that one therapist just brought! I had to get out of the room it was making me feel so rushed and I wasn’t even the person receiving the massage!!). We ALL have our own taste and rhythm - help guarantee a harmonious massage by bringing your own beat!
CAROLINA DELGADO
(CarolinaDel@gmail.com / 2-289-0432 / 8-302-1428 / http://LifeEnjoyer.com)
AWESOME!!
LOCATION: You can go to here at the House of Self Empowerment in Escazu (San Rafael - ON Calle Viejo near Calle Country Club [there’s a bus stop by them]) or go to her up in San Antonio de Escazu (WAYYYY up near Tequicia Restaurant)
TECHNIQUES: NEURO MUSCULAR (she's AMAZING at this!!), Theraputic, Lymphatic (knocked the onset of a cold out of me!!), HIGHLY INTUITIVE!!!
INVESTMENT IN YOUR BODY: $45/75 minutes for Regulars. $50/75 minutes for 1st timers & Non-Residents. if you go to her at her place up in San Antonio de Escazu (next to Tequisia) OR The House of Self Empowerment in Escazu (San Rafael).
JULY SUPER SPECIALS (or Pre-Pay Gift Certificate for future treatments): SAVE $5. (Note: She's away on a Silent Retreat till July 13).
RODRIGO PORRAS
(http://RodrigoMassageCostaRica.com / 8-843-6857 [if his cell isn’t on or it has the generic voice message, do NOT leave a message since he doesn’t always check it] OR, in English, you can make an appointment for him at the House of Self Empowerment where he works out of at 8-378-6679 [this number is best for those that don't speak much Spanish] or his home at 2-214-1621 [they don’t speak lots of English there]).
LOCATION: You can go to him at the House of Self Empowerment in Escazu (San Rafael - conveniently located ON Calle Vieja just East of Calle Country Club [there’s a bus stop by them]- ON the blue Santa Ana-Calle Vieja bus that runs from the Coca-Cola Bus Terminal in Downtown San Jose to Piedades) OR he can come to you with his massage table. (see rate below).
NOTE: Rodrigo is one of the BEST Massage Therapists my body has EVER experienced!!! He is one of the Massage Therapist for the CR Soccer Federation (over 10 years) and he’s been doing professional massages/physical therapy for over 20 years and even taught massage at THE massage school in CR. He knows so much about the mechanics of body (inside and out) - both clinical and when he taps in intuitively - he gets to the right spots to get maximum relief/results (at least for me). A professionally trained massage therapist is important but someone that brings in a DEEP intuition is CRUCIAL to me as I’ve been receiving massages regularly for over 30 years and sadly, the most clinical/ detached/unintuitive/worst massages I’d ever received prior to connecting with Rodrigo (and one other gal that seems to have disappeared) have sadly been in CR. I want someone that taps into what my body is saying - not just what they’ve learned or is their usual routine! One client he worked on had her hip misplaced in child birth 17 years before and nothing had fixed it - till ONE session with Rodrigo!! He’s mainly available on the weekends and sometimes on weeknights after 6:30pm or so plus he sometimes travels internationally with Selecion.
TECHNIQUES: He knows Sports Massage, Deep Tissue, MEGA Stretch, Thai, Shiatsu, Reflexology, Holistical Massage incorporating the mind, body and Spirit; Biomechanical, he knows many chiropractic type moves (he is NOT a chiropractor!!), INTUITIVE!!!
INVESTMENT IN YOUR BODY: Locals - $45/SESSION + tip. Non-Locals - $50/session. NOTE: A session with Rodrigo almost always goes WELL over an hour (no clock watching here! He OFTEN does at least 1 & a 1/2-2 hours because he actually LISTENS to whatever your body needs! Novel concept eah?!?!) - PLEASE be VERY generous in your tip if he goes over 1 hr. plus) OR he can come to you with his table + $10 PLUS his taxi fare to/from wherever he’s coming from.
JULY SUPER SPECIALS (or Pre-Pay Gift Certificate for future treatments): $35/Session + Tip.
ALIDA with Healing Mother Earth
In Escazu at the House of Self Empowerment or in el Rodeo at the 5k mark on the road to the University for Peace (past Ciudad Colon)
(8-848-5666 / http://Healing-Me.com / AlidaFrancisco@gmail.com [it's WAYYY best to call her])
TECHNIQUES: Hot Rocks (I had this - INTERESTING and it felt GOOD!! NOT what I was “expecting”), Reiki Energy Healing - $35/hr, Body Therapy (healing the emotional, physical & spiritual sides of the body).
She also does MEDICINE WALKS (San Antonio de Escazu; el Rodeo de Ciudad Colon or the area you feel is a Sacred Space outdoors for you). Animal Tarot - 2 hr. Totum (gives you a Spirit Animal for all 7 directions).
INVESTMENT IN YOUR BODY:
JULY SUPER SPECIALS (or Pre-Pay Gift Certificate for future treatments)!!! Primal Experience (Hot Rocks & Reiki) - One and 1/2 hours - $50 (reg. $75). Reiki - $35/hr. Body Therapy - $35/hr., $50 1/2 hrs. Medicine Walks - $35/1st hour, $60/2 hours, $75/3 hours. Animal Tarot - $65/2 hour Totum. (She can come to you for $10+ [depending on where you live]).
NORMA Alvarado Santa Maria
Santa Ana (near Rock & Roll Poll) or she comes to you
(8-882-0572 / NormaAl60@yahoo.com)
TECHNIQUES: MASSAGES: Therapeutic • Relaxation • Russian Classic • Chiropractic • Swedish • Sports • Hot Stones (12,000-15,000-c) • Pregnant Women • Baby’s • Chocolate OR Fruit Therapy/Massages (grapes, orange, vegetables, cucumber) • Facial with mask with steam (45 min.) - 12,000 • Foot Massage includes Exfoliating - 30 min. 10,000. Full Body Dry Exfoliation - 8,000. Reflexology on the Feet &/or Hands - +20 min. +5,000. She can make up an oil and you can select the scent from her bottles of essences! She can also put a few drops of essences in the room to help set the mood.
INVESTMENT IN YOUR BODY: 10,000+/session in her studio. 12,000/session at House of Self Empowerment. 15,000/session+ (depending on the services) in your house (plus her transporation to/from Santa Ana if she brings her table from Escazu to Cuidad Colon to Belen. Inquire for further).
JULY SUPER SPECIALS (or Pre-Pay Gift Certificate for future treatments):
Rocio Soto (2-274-3114 / 8-891-8628 / RocioSot@gmail.com)
Curridabat, the House of Self Empowerment in Escazu or she can come to you.
TECHNIQUES & INVESTMENT IN YOUR BODY: MASSAGES: I found her to have a nice gentle nurturing touch (my bodies needs that day) while another guests' experience was nice and STRONG! Rocio does Therapeutic Massage • Shiatsu, Chiropractic Massage • Reflexology • Swedish - 15,000/session (about 75 min. on average); Therapeutic Massage with hot stone 20,000; Hot Oil on Scalp, Neck, Shoulders (Indian Massage) - 15,000/30 min.; Lymphatic Massage (body & face - about 2-3 hours) - 25,000; Sports (focusing on 1 area) - 30 min. 10,000; Cellulite Reduction - 12,000/session; Reductive Massage 18,000/session (takes 8-10 or so sessions); Prenatal 12,00 (not the prenatal table but using positioning); Baby 10,000.
SPA SERVICES -
FACIALS: Deep Cleaning; Acne Treatment; Lifting Treatment or Spot Treatment - $35; Deep Hydration or Face Cleaning; Face Cleaning with Mask - $30; Detoxifying Body Steam with Herbs - $30; Hot Oil Drip - $30; Lymphatic Massage - $35; Body Sculpting with Cool Wrap (exfoliation then the cremes to help reduce & tone. They wrap you up & you go home with this on & keep it on as long as you can) - $45.
WAXING (2nd price is for very hairy people. These services are only available when your total treatments are $25+) - Bikini Line - 5,000, Bikini Complete - 10,000; Upper Lip - 2,500; Eyebrow - 4,000; Leg - 1/2 Leg Lower - 7,500; 1/2 Leg Upper - 8,000; Full - 15,000; Brazilian - 15,000; Chin - 4,000; Full Face - 12,000; UnderArm - 6,000; Arms - 8,000; Stomach - 6,000; Abdomen - 4,000; Chest - 10,000; Buttocks - 6,000; Back & Shoulders - 15,000. WAXING SPECIAL! Select 2 waxings - Save 10%, 3 waxings - Save 15%, 4 waxings - Save 20%.
WRAPS: Full Body Mud; Full Body Chocolate or Full Body Herbal Exfoliation - 20,000.
PACKAGES:
NOTE ON RATES/LOCATION: Prices above are if you go to her at the House of Self Empowerment conveniently located on the Santa Ana bus route on Calle VIeja in Escazu. If she comes to you it’s +$10 East of San Jose, +$15 West of San Jose and she can bring a table.
She’s professionally trained. and speaks a fair amount of English if you speak slowly.
HOURS: After 3pm Weekdays & all day on Sat. & Sun.
JULY SUPER SPECIALS (or Pre-Pay Gift Certificate for future treatments)
LUIS SANCHEZ
(8-389-8864 / LSanchezCA@ice.go.cr [though he doesn’t always check his emails])
Sessions are normally 60-80 minutes using a combination of different
TECHNIQUES: Reflexology, Digit Pressure, Deep Tissue, Aroma and Therapeutic Massage. “My Commitment is to your Well-Being. To understand your body make you feel better while connecting with the Universe’s Vital Energy. I am just an instrument for helping you. When this becomes clear and you begin to realize the mission, the Universe will provide you with the tools needed to carry it out. Above all, our session will be an Encounter with yourself to discover your natural state.”
INVESTMENT IN YOUR BODY: $30/hr. He sees people at the House of Self Empowerment in Escazu or comes to you if you have a massage table and is mainly available in the day till 3pm but he may be available at night with advance notice.
RAMON MARTINEZ
Santa Ana (Piadades)
(8-866-6018 / EstrellaPistola@yahoo.com)
Ramon is a very Spiritually Gifted energy with MANY very Spiritual techniques. Reiki - 15,000/hour. Flower Therapy helps with emotional upheavals, depression, to fortify the immune system, endocrine glands - 12,000/40 min. (includes the essences which lasts approximately 21 days). You then return on day 21. Tues. & The Sat. Schedule of attention 9 a.m. to 7p.m Saturdays until the noon. Both:
Podal Reflexology with essences of orchids and tropical trees - 15,000/40 min. Thai Massage - 15,000/hr. Sensitive Massage - The dawn of the person balances activating the corpuscles of Meisner of the skin, is realised with essential oils, for the unfreezing of the power knots of perception extero and interoceptiva of the body - 15,000/hr. Podiatry Treatment/Massage for people with problems of the feet including calluses, ingrown nails & diabetic feet - 15,000/hr.
REIKI Classes - 1st Level - It is the rite or ceremony in which the masterful aids the students to connect for always with Reiki. It is not necessary to repeat it, but it is a process of in case so sanador that it is recommended to repeat it. In order to benefit from this process any preparation does not make lack, nor training, neither special study, nor qualities. In fact all initiation is a autoiniciación. The teacher is for facilitating, the process Is a process of connection with itself - $50/4 hrs.
2nd Level - Emotional Mental Reiki. It allows to treat remote the patients or to try at the same time as several people. It includes techniques for the treatment of mental and emotional problems (memory, addictions, problems of study, relation…). The capacity is increased to transmit energy and so the treatments are brief. Symbols and " are used; mantras" or phrases influence of the Budism - $50/4 hrs.
3rd/Master Level - Spiritual Includes the symbols to initiate to others. The symbol power the previous ones - $400/4 hours.
Shamballa Level - MASTERS: It contributes a western metaphysics to the traditional Reiki. It introduces to St. Germain and the teachers promoted like creators of Reiki at the time of Lemuria and Atlantis. It contributes the initiation in the feet. Integra the Earth energy. It looks for the connection of the energies superiors the matter. The balance. It includes 352 symbols. The one for each level of conscience between this plane and source. The symbols visualize with color and in three dimensions. 32 are known and the rest is redescubren actually daily of the Reiki. Each connects with its creative power. It is a creative Reiki. Shambhala is based on the belief that all the beings have been initiated in Reiki in the past and now is becoming to wake up to the benefit of the humanity and for the soñación of the world. Shamballa acts in a plane of greater vibration and thus it can transfer energy with more rapidity and intensity - $50/4 hrs.
Unitario - Only for the Reiki teachers. The unitary Reiki is born from the necessity to reunite the Reiki Usui, the techniques of the Reiki Karuna and the multidimensional Reiki of Shambhala to create adapted an integrating and evolutionary Reiki to the new energy. It is a system of accomplishment of one same one by the power of the love; a route to connect with the source through the presence I am. New contributions: Anchorage to the Earth - Activation of the Merkabah field - Recognition of the divinity of the receiver - Connection to the source from I am - intense and sagrada Initiation during three days consecutive. The Unitary Reiki was canalized in the 2001 by Selene, sofrólogo doctor, and Cyrille Odón, psychologist, psychoanalyst and lecturer with more than thirty years of clinical experience. Both are power and masterful therapists of the Reiki Usui, Reiki multidimensional Karuna and of Shambhala. It is a new tool of work with a vibration suitable high energetics to the change that is taking place. The initiation is three days consecutive. It includes the three levels and the masters. It is avoided therefore the dependency with the teachers, Unitary Reiki only are Teachers - $550/5 days.
Cheyenne - of the American natives. Before the patriarcado one we were more united to the Earth and the nature, discovers your animal of being able. Reiki Cheyenne contributes the integration of the elements that form the life along with the universal spirit and the intention of your life. First level, second level and maestría - $125/ 2 hrs. in a week.
Kundalini - a safe and smooth form to wake up kundalini. A series of three initiations is given abrir and to fortify your channels of energy, allowing that the energy reiki cleans your bodies. Kundalini is a sánscrita word that talks about the vital energy that remains slept in the base of the column in the majority of people, is powerful and creative and so the centers of body energy are abiertos taking contact with the Earth energy - $100/each level.
Initiation of the Mystical Rose - the mystical rose is the manifestation of God in the humanity, is the divine spark that lives in us, the Shekinah of the Hebrews. Flight, Hathor for Egyptian or the Demeler for the Greeks would come to be the intermediary between God and the world. It is the rose of the world, maintains the creation of which all we comprised and we are not separated of her. Its light shines more than the sun. Neither spirits nor demons can cause damage in their presence by their radiating star power. In the tibetana tradition is known it as Tare that means star and represents the feminine divinity, the flower of loto with the jewel. Equally it is Shakti for the Hindus. The feminine power this resurging nowadays, which means movements in favor of La Paz, rejection towards the coercive methods of social repression, a desire of greater beauty, love, cooperation, interrelations characterized by the values, the search of greater quality of life with sensitivity and wisdom and in balance with the masculine force. The mystical rose is the union of the macrocosmos with the microcosm, your spiritual essence and the essence of the universe is united for the purification and the sanación. The initiation is realized of form similar to those of reiki - $50/2 hrs.
Initiation of the Sacred Orchid - To connect your divinity with the divinities of the nature and to reach other dimensions of the angelical kingdoms. 3 initiations are realized connecting with the ray platinum. $75/2 hrs. Required: Have taken the 2nd level of Reiki Shamballa. Initiation of the 6 Dragons - iridium, rhodium, Indian, gold, platinum, ultraviolet. Activation of the bodies of light with the new energy.
Ramon also creates personalized flower essences you can wear around your neck, personal Manadalas & LOTS MORE!!
FREDDY PADILLAC
Piadades - you go to him
(8-881-7602 / 2-282-5719 / movement8@yahoo.com)
I received a treatment from Freddy and my experience was that it was VERY relaxing and freeing!
TECHNIQUES: Rebalancing Massage (a combination of Joint Release, Deep Tissue, Craniosacral and Reflexology). Good English and Spanish. HOURS: Weekedays-Mon.-Fri.
INVESTMENT IN YOUR BODY: $35/session or $250/10.
ERIN DEANS - Sunlight On Water Healing Therapies Project for Peace -
Santa Ana-behind Baccus (you go to her)
(2-203-3492 / SunH2OYes@yahoo.com)
It’s interesting - for over 15 years I’ve been having people come to me to give me a massage and I forgot how nurturing and special it is to go to someone else in their space - especially one as MAGICAL as Erin’s!! In her space you have those wonderful smells of the oils she uses for aromatherapy, it’s tranquil as it’s off a peaceful country road in Santa Ana (just east of Baccus Restaurant) and it’s a little piece of paradise!! She also put over my eyes an eye protector made out of flax seed with some eucalyptus oil that helped clear my lungs (since that was a BIG problem iw as having at the time) - DELICIOUS!!! Erin REALLY taps into your body and Spirit and knows just where to work her magic! You wouldn’t find that with most massge therapists that come to you! I was able to keep my VERY relaxed feeling even on the way home and till the next day!!
TECHNIQUES: 23 years in practice and a Certified Practitioner in Osho Rebalancing Massage (a combination of deep tissue, light tissue massage, joint release and integrative physically, mentally, emotionally and spiritually), Reflexology (a compression technique used on the feet, hands and ears to release energy meridians to enhance overall wellbeing, elimination, assimilation and relaxation), Cranio-Sacral Therapy (allows the body to realign thru gentle holding and manipulation of points on the head and other specific areas of the body. Profound relaxation occurs allowing pain patterns to dissolve and old injuries lose their grip. Emotional moods lighten and in a deep state of relaxation, your body will best heal itself), Kineseology (offers support through muscle testing in discovering, exploring and experiencing your emotions. When emotions are released, many times the physical challenges diminish), Aromatherapy Massage (blend with and compliment your wellness sessions on every level) and Warm Water Therapy’s (assists the body, mind and spirit to relax in warm water. Floating, being supported, massaged and stretched using Shiatsu techniques and movements in the water melts away tension and enhances vitality, thus overall wellbeing is integrated, creating a state of bliss and inner peace) to Nurture and nourish your body, mind and spirit, rejuvenate, relax and melt away stress.
Erin has a Mother's Option PREGNANCY TABLE, Erin is able to accommodate the expectant mother's from conception throughout the pregnancy, as well as baby massage. Erin takes special care to cradle and support the mother's baby with a state-of-the-art hammock table, for Mom's comfort so she can lay face down and have delicious massage on her back without causing discomfort for Mom or the baby (important note..pregnancy tables can be dangerous if the support is not firm enough. Some tables with expanding elastics are not strong enough and will stress the lower back and abdomen of a pregnant woman). HOURS: Mon.-Thurs. 9am-5:30pm.
INVESTMENT IN YOUR BODY: $45/hour (various packages)
Michael (Mijael) Brandwaijn
Escazu - San Antonio
(8-353-6559 / http://CostaRicaYoga.net / Mijael@CostaRicaYoga.net)
Michael is new in town so I haven't gotten feedback on him yet but he has LOTS of skills/training from the U.S. and his native Venezuela (he speaks GOOD English). He will come to you or for less you can go to him. I'm awaiting his techniques list but I do remember he also does/incorporates Yoga.
MARIA JULIO
(2-254-3323) - She comes to you
I LOVE LOVE LOVE Maria Julio!!!! She's REALLY GOOD but sometimes has “situations” where she doesn’t show or call. Because I sit in front of the computer for so long - she even got up on the table and did this technique that I've never had anyone do in the past. She kinda pushed my tush upwards with both hands and it unlocked my tailbone area giving me more flexibility!! I don't believe she has a table so you need to have one (or she'll do you on the floor which gives for GOOD stretches). $20/session (though she often does longer) plus her bus fare. Spanish only (though she understands a little bit of English. Be VERY clear. Sometimes she doesn't show or is late as she takes the bus and doesn't have a cell but she IS worth it!!). She has a contact that can make you your own Massage Table for around $150-$200+.
PABLO CHAVEZ
Santa Ana - Farmacia Betesda - 25 meters Oeste Musmani Panaderia a la derecha
(2-282-5343-farmacia / 8-890-2959)
Pablo has his own Pharmacy and can do cheap/relaxing massages from his pharmacist table. I had one from him and it was nice. He speaks limited English though he understands more but his son Estaban can help translate (please give him a propina for helping out!!).
TECHNIQUES: Massage, Aromatherapy, relaxation, circulation. He can also help you with Private medical assistance, IV's (for dehydration and to cleanse the blood for various things). He has his own lab to do blood work and he has MANY connections with GOOD people in the medical fields around CR. He can make emergency house calls (on sliding scale). HOURS: Mon.-Sat. 8am-6:30pm, Sun. 8am-noon.
INVESTMENT IN YOUR BODY: Massage in Pharmacy - 5,000/hour. He comes to you or at The House of Self Empowerment in Escazu starting at 10,000/hour (if he goes over, please give a NICE tip/propina).
Tulio Alvarado
(8-826-2859 / talv3@yahoo.com)
TECHNIQUES: Deep Tissue,
AVAILABILITY: After 4:30pm Weekdays
INVESTMENT IN YOUR BODY: $30/hr.
DIANE EVANS
Escazu (San Rafael) - She will come to you or you go to her
(2-289-3397 / 8-832-4325 / DianeRVincent@hotmail.com)
TECHNIQUES: Thai and Shiatsu
INVESTMENT IN YOUR BODY: 10,000/hour if you go to her. 15,000 if she goes to you close by.
CARLWYN CARBY
Santa Ana (Centro) - She will come to you or you go to her
(8-383-4414)
TECHNIQUES: Theraputic, Sports, Deep Tissue, Hot Rocks, Cranial Sacral, Aromatherapy
INVESTMENT IN YOUR BODY: $65/session if she comes to you (from Ciudad Colon to Pavas/Rohrmoser)
VICTORIA SCHWARZ
Escazu (you go to her)
(2-228-3163 / VictoriaSchwarz@aol.com / VESchwarz@gmail.com)
TECHNIQUES: She is an Advanced Certified Massage Therapist, Reiki Master, Aromatherapy. She says her massages are 10% technique and 90% Spiritual Connection. She also specializes in pregnant women by propping you up with pillows.
INVESTMENT IN YOUR BODY: $45 session (about 1 1/2 hours)
MERCEDES DANERI
Escazu (Los Laurels) - you go to her
(2-289-3687 / MercedesDaneri@hotmail.com) - She's no longer doing standard massage - she's now focusing on these
TECHNIQUES: Cranial Sacral, MyoFascia (like Rolfing [looking for the sliding of masses to repair]), a combination of techniques working into the Mouth. She KNOWS the bod!!! She also does Spiritual Response Therapy (soul reading). Corporate Pshycotherapy. Soft Oestheopathy - uses the chemical your body is going to eleaborate to soften the tissues (chemical reaction to eliminate tension). She's been on this path for over 40 years.
INVESTMENT IN YOUR BODY: $60/session
JOHN GILMORE
Ciudad Colon - He will come to you or you go to him
(2-249-2563 / jgilmore7.1@juno.com)
TECHNIQUES: Massage Therapist, Reiki Master Teacher, Tai Chi Teacher and founder of Diana Sarah Wellness Center and Cyber School. He also teaches Tai Chi Free Flow (Short Tai-chi forms, Medical Chi-kung, Tai Chi Ball Chi-kung and then the developement of our own unique forms) at Sat Yoga Institute in Escazu and Infinite Nine Tai Chi at the Kapoli Yoga Center and Unity Church-Piadades.
INVESTMENT IN YOUR BODY: 10,000/1 hour if you go to him. +5,000 if he comes to you.
IRIS HURTADO DELGADO
(8-868-5880 / 2-289-2453 / IHude@hotmail.com)
Escazu (San Antonio) but she comes to you. She speaks & understands a fair amount of English (especially when you speak slowly).
Sarah - "She WORKED on my knots & adjusted to the areas I wanted more or less pressure (she listened to me!). She was very nice & friendly & made me feel comfortable! What a wonderful way to end my vacation to Costa Rica! I can now get on the plane feeling mucho relaxed after a go-go-go vacation!" Vicki - I got a little teaser & WOW does she have some STRONG HANDS!! She got in DEEP in some of my what feels like steel rod parts of my back!!" Laine says “Iris is a beautiful Colombian gal with very strong hands, she’s professionally trained and really gives a great massage.” Alice said she was “Wonderful!”
TECHNIQUES: Deep Tissue, Relaxing, Lymphatic, Reflexology, Pregnant Women (with positioning), Hot Stones (23,000/75 minutes, + for longer), Digital Pressure.
INVESTMENT IN YOUR BODY: 20,000 for 75 minutes (if she’s bringing her table [you don’t have one] you’ll pay her taxi fare)
RICHARD STOCKER
Belen (you go to him)
(2-215-2139 / partlycloudy@rstocker.com)
TECHNIQUE: 30 years experience in ROLFING (VERY VERY VERY STRONG/DEEP [aka painful]).
INVESTMENT IN YOUR BODY: $75/hour
OLMAN PIZARRO and MARCELLA
Santa Ana (they come to you)
(2-282-3427 / 8-890-4153-cO / 8-866-7055-cM / Pizarro36@yahoo.com )
Both do massage and chiropractic (Marcella can’t work on larger chiropractic clients). Marcella does REALLY STRONG massages (to the point the person that told me about her said she adjusted something in him that had been blocked for awhile).
TECHNIQUES: Theraputic, Relaxing, Shiatsu (Marcella), ROLFING/Deep Tissue (Marcella), Lymphatic (Olman), Bioenergetic, Marcella was trained in Germany. I think they were on the more pricey side compared to the others. English and Spanish He’s also a tour guide so he’s in and out a lot. Both speak good English and Spanish.
INVESTMENT IN YOUR BODY: Locals-$30/hour + $7+ gas. Foreign $50/hour + $7+ gas.
DAVID ASKEW
Pozos de Santa Ana (or he can come to you) (8-896-7911 / DharmaDave@gmail.com) - He does many types of massage plus he’s a Naturpathic Doctor. Professionally trained (still licensed in Florida) for over 16 years.
TECHNIQUES: Massage or Naturpathic
INVESTMENT IN YOUR BODY: $40/hour (can be workable with price for Tico’s and your situation). English
BARBARA ADAMS - SECRET GARDEN MASSAGE
Escazu - Bello Horizonte (you have to go to her though if you have mobility issues, she'll make an exception)
(2-228-1049 / SecretGardenMassage@yahoo.com) -
TECHNIQUES is called Certified in ReBalancing Massage (a bybrid combo of trager and Feldenkreis, a LITTLE bit of non-painful rolfing, Reich - deep, slow and relaxing). She has one of the few tables around with a belly hole - perfect for pregnant gals. When I spoke with her she said she's quite busy so you may have to wait to get into her.
INVESTMENT IN YOUR BODY: $45/hour, $60-1 1/2 hours
LILY
Escazu (she comes to you)
(8-355-3498 / 2-228-7635)
If you just need a basic/cheap massage. She does NOT speak English. I don’t think she’s professionally trained hence why the price the
INVESTMENT IN YOUR BODY: 7,000/hr.
EVELIA
She comes to you in the San Jose/Escazu/Santa Ana area
(8-355-0716)
She only speaks Spanish. She's not professionally trained but the person that referred her said she gets the job done for cheap she always confirms with you the night before the appointment and is always on time as well. YOU have to provide a massage table and massage cream/oil (quite typical for the cheaper ones). Her sister also does massage so they can do a Massage/Pamering Party.
INVESTMENT IN YOUR BODY: 7,000 colones/hour
OTHER AREAS:
HEREDIA
MONIKA BINGEN-HARA - Instructora de Balance Integral - She working out of a little clinic in Centro Heredia (2-260-0960 / 8-393-2401 / info@BioBellaOrganics.com)
TECHNIQUES: Aromatherapy, Flower Therapy, Reiki, Feng Shui, Hot Stones+. I use only organic pure essential oils to helping your body and soul to find their unity. The massage crème is handcrafted, keeping in mind that your skin needs the maximum care. Let me accompany you in your process, wanting to recuperate emotional, physical or spiritual balance. Bio Bella Organics is her OWN line of WONDERFUL Organic Natural products from creams, exfoliants, blend sprays, lip balm and more. HOURS: Mon, Wed. and Fri.
INVESTMENT IN YOUR BODY: 11,000/session (about 75 min.)
Heredia (San Rafael)
COSTA RICA SCHOOL OF INTEGRATIVE MASSAGE
(2-262-3444 / 8-398-6670 / http://CRMassageSchool.com / http://LearnMassageInCostaRica.com / info@LearnMassageInCostaRica.com / zenmormon27@yahoo.com)
Massage Classes but they also have 3 Massage Therapists on property (not students) offering Relaxing Swedish Massage-15,000-c/hour. Deep Swedish 20,0000-c/hour. Sports Massage or Structural Massage 25,000-c/hour and give FREE MASSAGES by students (when classes are in session) when training is going on.
Directions: One block South of the big, big church in San Rafael
Heredia (above in Santa Barbara)
JOE GOODMAN
(8-336-8175)
TECHNIQUES: Swedish, Japanese, Deep Tissue.
INVESTMENT IN YOUR BODY: $35/hour on East side. West side $40.
San Pedro - Los Yoses
MICHAL AISHA -
(8-831-2991 / MichalAisha@gmail.com)
TECHNIQUES: Thai, Reiki, Accupuncture.
INVESTMENT IN YOUR BODY: 15,000/hr. A combo of accupuncture and massage 21,000 for 1 1/2 hr.
Belen
MARICEL HERRERA
(2-239-7233 / 8-377-4764)
Turrubares
Jorge Valverde Mora
(2-419-0392 [whomever answers doesn't speak English] / 8-879-0621)
He's young and STRONG and has professional training and also does Sports Massage and stretching etc. (per Jill Ruttenberg)
SPA'S
MANDALA SPA - Escazu (Centro)-de la Bomba Shell - 100 este y 200 Sur
(2-228-9627)
TECHNIQUES: HydroTherapy, Hot Oil Treatment, Lymphology, Weight Reduction, Facials and more. Spanish Only
HARMONY CENTER
Escazu - San Rafael
(2-288 4658 / http://HarmonyCenters.com / info@ HarmonyCenters.com)
TECHNIQUES: Massages - Therapeutic - 30 min. $30. Anti-Stress –$65/60 min., Andian Head Massage – 45 min. $40, Complete Massage and Facial – 1 1/2 hours $100, Foot Reflexology – 15 min. $25. Also – facials from $30-$60. Wraps $50. Scrubs $50. Ruth specializes in Accupuncture.
CHEAPER MASSAGE PEOPLE
(5,000-9,000/hour [and most WATCH the clock]. Most do NOT have a table so you need one or they'll do you on the floor. Most are NOT professionally trained or if they do it's limited. Most do NOT speak English)
@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@
MASSAGE TABLE:
PriceSmart often has quite nice wider/padded table that’s adjustable height wise and around $240!!!!
MASSAGE TABLE MAKER:
Fausto Barrientos - Tibas (2-235-2646) (Spanish only). HOURS: 7:30 am to 11:30am and 1-5:30pm. DESCRIPTION: The table has a wooden frame with padding on top. Legs are made of aluminum. The table folds in half and it looks like a piece of luggage. It also has a piece for the head/face that allows you to put you face inside a hole when you are lying down on your stomach. The vinyl padding is in black; dark blue; dark brown or dark green. ORDERING: You can call and order it by phone and it would take 8 working days for him to build it. You do not have to pay anything in advance. You pay when you pick it up. INVESTMENT: 65,000 colones.
DIRECTIONS (it can be complicated unless you have lived here for a while and know your way around San Jose): Tibas - from the NE corner of the Catholic Church 100 meters north, 600 meters west (Clinica Dental), then 100 meters north until you find the Municipal Stadium until you get to School Jesus Jimenez then 200 meters east towards (Saprissa Stadium) until you find a property that is fully covered with a fence and you will find a public phone. When you get to the public phone call him and he will meet you.
@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@
MASSAGE SCHOOLS:
COSTA RICA SCHOOL OF INTEGRATIVE MASSAGE
Heredia (San Rafael) - One block South of the big, big church in San Rafael
(2-262-3444 / 8-398-6670 / http://CRMassageSchool.com / http://LearnMassageInCostaRica.com / info@LearnMassageInCostaRica.com)
Classes (including weekend classes) include the Basics starting with Anatomy and Physiology, Aromatherapy (including Raindrop Therapy), Iridology, Hydrotherapy, Kinesiology, Sports Massage/Lecture/Assesment, Swedish, Connective Tissue Massage, Reflexology, Neuromuscular Massage, Shiatsu, Integrative, Spanish For Massage Therapists and more!!! Want to learn some Basic Massage (for personal use)? They have a weekend class once a month - 12 hours for $120. They also have a Yoga classes in the morning for the public, as well as Core Strength classes 2 mornings a week. They have 3 Massage Therapists on property (not students) offering Relaxing Swedish Massage-15,000-c/hour. Deep Swedish 20,0000-c/hour. Sports Massage or Structural Massage 25,000-c/hour.
FREE MASSAGES by students when classes are in session - inquire. OWNERS: Roblynn Neumann (zenmormon27@yahoo.com)
Centro de Balance Integral
(2-224-0883 / http://GaiaCostaRica.org / GaiaCostaRica@yahoo.com)
Director and Sexologist-Javier Ortiz - Classes in Training in Hypnotherapy for Child Birth, Yoga, Massage, Acupressure, Hypnotherapy. Personal sessions on Holistic Health, Transpersonal Psychology, Sex Therapy. Javier hosts a program on Channel 15 - “Musica por Inclusion”. Most of the classes in Spanish.
MASSAGE THERAPISTS - NEED SPACE TO SEE CLIENTS?
The House of Self Empowerment is conveniently located on the Santa Ana bus route on Calle VIeja in Escazu and has a few spaces people can use. There is NO fee for the use and we provide a massage table but you would bring your own sheets, oil and other supplies and clean up after yourself.
WANT TO BE LISTED HERE?
You can get listed on this site simply by emailing CostaRicaResourceGuide@gmail.com There is NEVER a fee to be listed (though if you receive referrals - a free massage would be nice!!).
Monday, September 15, 2008
Where to Find BEDS, MATTRESSES & FUTONS in Costa Rica
When I first moved to Costa Rica is searched for used beds for MONTHS on message boards & bulletine boards but no luck. I finally gave up & went to Jiron recommended by CaribbeanSoul/Isabella & EscazuNews Daniel & I was pretty pleased with the results. Here are the details:
JIRON
(http://Jiron.com / 2-217-1000 / 2-226-0750-sales)
They seem to be the MAIN Mattress manufacturer in Costa Rica.
For the cheapest prices, buy at their OWN stores (listed below) & you’ll save LOTS more than buying in the stores that imply they’re dealers (when they’re just retailers).
I bought their 2 cheapest/bottom of the line Twin Mattresses AND BOX SPRINGS with screw-on wood legs (no frame needed. I've NOT found lots of beds here with box springs. Most have just been the mattress & you build a frame with wood slats for it. I bought the basics as I use special Memory Foam Mattress Toppers to make them comfy!). I think I paid around $140 each bed (2 pieces. I saw the SAME bed at HiperMas for $170/2 pieces with NO delivery [& I think 13% tax also]). It was actually quite comfortable so I'm glad I bought them now & wish I hadn't wasted so much time being cheap looking for used ones.
I found they will give you 5% (sometimes more with volume) off EVEN when you pay by credit card - if YOU ASK!!!
They also DELIVER THAT DAY (usually). My Relocation Angel Frank Chicas got there around 11am & they DELIVERED the 2 beds to my home in Pozos de Santa Ana BY 4pm for FREE (I gave a nice tip as I was SOOO appreciative I didn’t have to deal with getting it to me. They were greatful & even helped me make them with the cool bedding I have!).
STORES: http://jiron.com/dormicentros_eng.html
PAVAS (2-217-1077 / 2-217-1078) - Rhomaser - Carretere Pavas - 300 West of Cemaco, Past the Shell Gas Station, next to Radio Shack
Avenida 2nd (2-217-1028)
Avenida 10th (2-217-1083)
San Sebastian (2-217-1006 / 2-217-1010)
La California (2-217-1044)
San Pedro (2-217-1072)
Zapote (2-217-1065)
Desamparados (2-217-1085)
CUSTOMIZED 100% COTTON MATTRESSES
I have a resource for REALLY GOOD QUALITY Customized 100% Cotton filled, hand-made, semi-orthopedic, chiropractic recommended MATTRESSES made with imported fabric for a bed or futon (not the frame).
I recently tried one that my friend bought and it was REALLY NICE! Not too hard or too soft and they can adjust yours according to YOUR body's desires!
PRICES: Twins start at 44,000-c, Full/Matrimonials - 55,000-c, Queens start at 66,00-c, Kings start at 77,000-c. They can even do special/custom orders & oversized!
He doesn’t want his info on the board so people desiring that quality can email me directly for his contact info - CostaRicaResourceGuide@ gmail.com
MATTRESSES & FOAM
PROURSA
(http://Proursa.com / 2-285-0505 / mercadeo@proursa.com)
They make mattresses plus have foam for beds, pillows & futons & can custom make things. They seem more expensive than Jiron. Twin Foam Futon 36,143. Twin firm foam 9,899. Lidia speaks English.
DIRECTIONS: Guadalupe - in front of the AYA Water Tanks
FOAM FOR MATTRESSES
SOLIS FERRETERIA
(228-1696)
I LOVE this mom/pops type hardware store / ferreteria that often has things that I can’t find at EPA & often cheaper!! They also have FOAM for beds+ (downstairs) & I found them often cheaper than Proursa. ENGLISH: Diego (tell him Vicki sent you!).
DIRECTIONS: Escazu – Centro (up the hill) - 25 mts. West of Palacio Municipal de Escazu & the church
WHERE TO FIND FUTONS:
Futons are VERY challenging to find at all in Costa Rica.
http://LivingLifeInCostaRica.blogspot.com/2008/08/futons-sofabeds-cots-for-sale-in-costa.html
WHERE TO FIND BEDDING LINENS & SHEETS
NOT easy to find QUALITY Bedding in Costa Rica. Here are some contacts:
http://LivingLifeInCostaRica.blogspot.com/2008/07/better-quality-bedding-and-sheets-in.html
.
JIRON
(http://Jiron.com / 2-217-1000 / 2-226-0750-sales)
They seem to be the MAIN Mattress manufacturer in Costa Rica.
For the cheapest prices, buy at their OWN stores (listed below) & you’ll save LOTS more than buying in the stores that imply they’re dealers (when they’re just retailers).
I bought their 2 cheapest/bottom of the line Twin Mattresses AND BOX SPRINGS with screw-on wood legs (no frame needed. I've NOT found lots of beds here with box springs. Most have just been the mattress & you build a frame with wood slats for it. I bought the basics as I use special Memory Foam Mattress Toppers to make them comfy!). I think I paid around $140 each bed (2 pieces. I saw the SAME bed at HiperMas for $170/2 pieces with NO delivery [& I think 13% tax also]). It was actually quite comfortable so I'm glad I bought them now & wish I hadn't wasted so much time being cheap looking for used ones.
I found they will give you 5% (sometimes more with volume) off EVEN when you pay by credit card - if YOU ASK!!!
They also DELIVER THAT DAY (usually). My Relocation Angel Frank Chicas got there around 11am & they DELIVERED the 2 beds to my home in Pozos de Santa Ana BY 4pm for FREE (I gave a nice tip as I was SOOO appreciative I didn’t have to deal with getting it to me. They were greatful & even helped me make them with the cool bedding I have!).
STORES: http://jiron.com/dormicentros_eng.html
PAVAS (2-217-1077 / 2-217-1078) - Rhomaser - Carretere Pavas - 300 West of Cemaco, Past the Shell Gas Station, next to Radio Shack
Avenida 2nd (2-217-1028)
Avenida 10th (2-217-1083)
San Sebastian (2-217-1006 / 2-217-1010)
La California (2-217-1044)
San Pedro (2-217-1072)
Zapote (2-217-1065)
Desamparados (2-217-1085)
CUSTOMIZED 100% COTTON MATTRESSES
I have a resource for REALLY GOOD QUALITY Customized 100% Cotton filled, hand-made, semi-orthopedic, chiropractic recommended MATTRESSES made with imported fabric for a bed or futon (not the frame).
I recently tried one that my friend bought and it was REALLY NICE! Not too hard or too soft and they can adjust yours according to YOUR body's desires!
PRICES: Twins start at 44,000-c, Full/Matrimonials - 55,000-c, Queens start at 66,00-c, Kings start at 77,000-c. They can even do special/custom orders & oversized!
He doesn’t want his info on the board so people desiring that quality can email me directly for his contact info - CostaRicaResourceGuide@ gmail.com
MATTRESSES & FOAM
PROURSA
(http://Proursa.com / 2-285-0505 / mercadeo@proursa.com)
They make mattresses plus have foam for beds, pillows & futons & can custom make things. They seem more expensive than Jiron. Twin Foam Futon 36,143. Twin firm foam 9,899. Lidia speaks English.
DIRECTIONS: Guadalupe - in front of the AYA Water Tanks
FOAM FOR MATTRESSES
SOLIS FERRETERIA
(228-1696)
I LOVE this mom/pops type hardware store / ferreteria that often has things that I can’t find at EPA & often cheaper!! They also have FOAM for beds+ (downstairs) & I found them often cheaper than Proursa. ENGLISH: Diego (tell him Vicki sent you!).
DIRECTIONS: Escazu – Centro (up the hill) - 25 mts. West of Palacio Municipal de Escazu & the church
WHERE TO FIND FUTONS:
Futons are VERY challenging to find at all in Costa Rica.
http://LivingLifeInCostaRica.blogspot.com/2008/08/futons-sofabeds-cots-for-sale-in-costa.html
WHERE TO FIND BEDDING LINENS & SHEETS
NOT easy to find QUALITY Bedding in Costa Rica. Here are some contacts:
http://LivingLifeInCostaRica.blogspot.com/2008/07/better-quality-bedding-and-sheets-in.html
.
Wednesday, September 10, 2008
PAYING BILLS ON AUTO-PAY / WITH A CREDIT CARD IN COSTA RICA
MANY people have told me NOT to pay with a credit card for anything as sometimes it doesn't get done (this DOES happen also in the states!).
When I lived in Pozos & was paying CableTica via my credit card for a year - I had no problem. When I moved & tried to get OUT of the system, it took me FIVE/5 MONTHS of them charging me EVERY MONTH & of FIVE/5 visits TO CableTica before they got me OUT of the system!!
Do what YOU want with that info but I know what I will NO LONGER be doing PERIOD!!
I have Banco Cuscatlan & LOVE IT as their site can be done in English and to pay my bills ONLY takes SECONDS! I just put in my phone number or account number, it tells ME how much is owed, I designate the account to take it from and VWALA - PAID!!! I make a PDF copy of the receipt (not killing any paper trees!) & have it stored in my computer!!
EASE!!!
When I lived in Pozos & was paying CableTica via my credit card for a year - I had no problem. When I moved & tried to get OUT of the system, it took me FIVE/5 MONTHS of them charging me EVERY MONTH & of FIVE/5 visits TO CableTica before they got me OUT of the system!!
Do what YOU want with that info but I know what I will NO LONGER be doing PERIOD!!
I have Banco Cuscatlan & LOVE IT as their site can be done in English and to pay my bills ONLY takes SECONDS! I just put in my phone number or account number, it tells ME how much is owed, I designate the account to take it from and VWALA - PAID!!! I make a PDF copy of the receipt (not killing any paper trees!) & have it stored in my computer!!
EASE!!!
LOCKSMITH / CERRAJERIA / KEYS - Good English-Speaking Locksmith in Costa Rica
LOCKSMITH = CERRAJERIA (to me it sounds like it’s pronounced se-ra-he-RE-ah)
KEYS = LLAVE (sounds like Jaw-vAy)
I JUST had Rafael Perez, a locksmith with Cerrajeria Escazu (2-228 6379 / 8-819-3213-owner / 8-363-9151-RP) fix a lock on a filing cabinet I had (I keep hiding things/$ and forgetting where I put it so this is an easy solution!). He speaks a good amount of English & is REALLY NICE and did a GOOD job on this complicated project.
Prices for a housecall start at 12,000-c (depending on the hour and what is required/how complicated it is). To make an extra key starts at 700-c
LOCATION: Escazu (San Rafael) - Centro Comercial La Rambla (across from POPS). They service the West end of the Central Valley (basically more or less from Escazu to Ciudad Colon)
HOURS: 24/7
OWNER: Rafael Chaveria
(THANX to Daniel with the Escazu News - http://EscazuNews.com - for this WONDERFUL lead!!)
KEYS = LLAVE (sounds like Jaw-vAy)
I JUST had Rafael Perez, a locksmith with Cerrajeria Escazu (2-228 6379 / 8-819-3213-owner / 8-363-9151-RP) fix a lock on a filing cabinet I had (I keep hiding things/$ and forgetting where I put it so this is an easy solution!). He speaks a good amount of English & is REALLY NICE and did a GOOD job on this complicated project.
Prices for a housecall start at 12,000-c (depending on the hour and what is required/how complicated it is). To make an extra key starts at 700-c
LOCATION: Escazu (San Rafael) - Centro Comercial La Rambla (across from POPS). They service the West end of the Central Valley (basically more or less from Escazu to Ciudad Colon)
HOURS: 24/7
OWNER: Rafael Chaveria
(THANX to Daniel with the Escazu News - http://EscazuNews.com - for this WONDERFUL lead!!)
Tuesday, August 26, 2008
Stay Connected with friends & family with Photos While in Costa Rica - Photo-Share Sites
Want to stay connected with your friends and family - for them to get a glimps into your life or vacation? Trying to sell something? Pictures make a BIG difference!!
For selling - having pictures REALLY helps you sell things MUCH FASTER and get your point across better. It also makes OUR/the buyers lives better/easier as well as yours because we can see what you have and if it doesn't work for us, we don't have to spend the gas/taxi money let alone time.
Here are a few Photo Share type sites (though they're more limited on LOTS of levels. I don’t have much experience/info on them so your input is REALLY helpful) - as well as some that are cheap and some not (but WELL worth it!!)
It TRULY can be VERY EASY to do (hey, if I can do it ANYONE can do it!!!)!!
http://Picasa.google.com (Sarah said they have the most storage at the best resoluton BUT, they are ONLY for Windows 2000/XP & with Internet Explorer 5.0+)
http://Flickr.com (you HAVE to download/bring over one pic at a time [PAIN/Time consuming!!], I haven’t found anything in it to make them purdy. I believe you can pay extra to store LOTS of pics).
http://PhotoBucket.com (can’t write much - mainly just a few letters for title of pic, photo [up to 10,000] & video storage)
http://Shutterfly.com (looks like you can make some purdy folders for groups of your pics plus order all sorts of other things from them)
http://Photoworks.com/photo-sharing/;jsessionid=7985DC0B07D58505EA4825B359D25ADB?cb=PW&guest=true&toh=&svr=web26 (owned by American Greetings - you can even make a hard copy photo book, paper photo cards, calendars, photo book, do slideshow [I’m not seeing much text if any])
http://Snapfish (they even have editing tools like remove red-eye, borders to make it purdier, order merchandise like cards, photo book, prints. My least favorite because vistors MUST sign in each time [& I NEVER remember my code] plus it looks like you HAVE to download/bring over one pic at a time [PAIN/Time consuming!!])
http://CopperMine-gallery.net (a multi-purpose fully-featured and integrated web picture gallery script written in PHP using GD or ImageMagick as image library with a MySQL backend [whatever that means]. This site is BEYOND my brain. I can’t even tell if it’s free)
I personally LOVE http://SmugMug.com but you pay for it BUT it's great for people like me that take LOTS of pics as I can create LOTS of "folders" for each sitea psuedo website writing all the text you'd like and even long descriptions of the pictures - DETAILS!! Also, you can drag & drop a BUNCH of pics at ONE TIME! EASE!! (example - http://saronggoddess.smugmug.com/gallery/5552336_D64kv
Standard Account - $40/year but you can have UNLIMITED storage/sites/folders, do Web 2.0, Tags, RSS feeds, APIs, Ajax.
POWER USER - $60 allows you to completely customize them, do your own headers/footers, video clips, use your own host name (this is what I have).
Professional Accounts - $150/yr - set print prices to sell your pictures & make a profit, sell digital downloads, use custom watermarkes, Proof-delayed shipping, protect your images from theft, add bigger files, add Hi-Def video+
I whipped up the Unity pics at
http://saronggoddess.smugmug.com/gallery/5552336_D64kv#340136421_WQEwt in 10 MINUTES!!! It's THAT EASY (hey, if I can do it ANYONE can do it!! For me it was just getting over my believing I'm "Technically Challenged"!!).
.
For selling - having pictures REALLY helps you sell things MUCH FASTER and get your point across better. It also makes OUR/the buyers lives better/easier as well as yours because we can see what you have and if it doesn't work for us, we don't have to spend the gas/taxi money let alone time.
Here are a few Photo Share type sites (though they're more limited on LOTS of levels. I don’t have much experience/info on them so your input is REALLY helpful) - as well as some that are cheap and some not (but WELL worth it!!)
It TRULY can be VERY EASY to do (hey, if I can do it ANYONE can do it!!!)!!
http://Picasa.google.com (Sarah said they have the most storage at the best resoluton BUT, they are ONLY for Windows 2000/XP & with Internet Explorer 5.0+)
http://Flickr.com (you HAVE to download/bring over one pic at a time [PAIN/Time consuming!!], I haven’t found anything in it to make them purdy. I believe you can pay extra to store LOTS of pics).
http://PhotoBucket.com (can’t write much - mainly just a few letters for title of pic, photo [up to 10,000] & video storage)
http://Shutterfly.com (looks like you can make some purdy folders for groups of your pics plus order all sorts of other things from them)
http://Photoworks.com/photo-sharing/;jsessionid=7985DC0B07D58505EA4825B359D25ADB?cb=PW&guest=true&toh=&svr=web26 (owned by American Greetings - you can even make a hard copy photo book, paper photo cards, calendars, photo book, do slideshow [I’m not seeing much text if any])
http://Snapfish (they even have editing tools like remove red-eye, borders to make it purdier, order merchandise like cards, photo book, prints. My least favorite because vistors MUST sign in each time [& I NEVER remember my code] plus it looks like you HAVE to download/bring over one pic at a time [PAIN/Time consuming!!])
http://CopperMine-gallery.net (a multi-purpose fully-featured and integrated web picture gallery script written in PHP using GD or ImageMagick as image library with a MySQL backend [whatever that means]. This site is BEYOND my brain. I can’t even tell if it’s free)
I personally LOVE http://SmugMug.com but you pay for it BUT it's great for people like me that take LOTS of pics as I can create LOTS of "folders" for each sitea psuedo website writing all the text you'd like and even long descriptions of the pictures - DETAILS!! Also, you can drag & drop a BUNCH of pics at ONE TIME! EASE!! (example - http://saronggoddess.smugmug.com/gallery/5552336_D64kv
Standard Account - $40/year but you can have UNLIMITED storage/sites/folders, do Web 2.0, Tags, RSS feeds, APIs, Ajax.
POWER USER - $60 allows you to completely customize them, do your own headers/footers, video clips, use your own host name (this is what I have).
Professional Accounts - $150/yr - set print prices to sell your pictures & make a profit, sell digital downloads, use custom watermarkes, Proof-delayed shipping, protect your images from theft, add bigger files, add Hi-Def video+
I whipped up the Unity pics at
http://saronggoddess.smugmug.com/gallery/5552336_D64kv#340136421_WQEwt in 10 MINUTES!!! It's THAT EASY (hey, if I can do it ANYONE can do it!! For me it was just getting over my believing I'm "Technically Challenged"!!).
.
Wednesday, August 13, 2008
GYMS IN THE ESCAZU, WESTERN CENTRAL VALLEY AREA, COSTA RICA
LIST OF LARGER GYMS IN ESCAZU - CENTRAL VALLEY & SAN JOSE AREA:
HOURS: Mon.-Fri. 5am-10pm, Sat. 7am-6pm, Sun. 9am-4pm
NEW LOCATION: Calle Vieja just West of Paco Plaza
HOURS: Mon.-Fri. 5:30am-9:30pm, Sat. 8am-3pm, Sun. 10am-1pm.
LOCATION: Paco Mall Philipe/Carlos
(2-289-5051 / http://multispa.net/webflash/gimnasios.htm#escazu / escazu@multispa.net)
HOURS: Mon.-Fri. 5am-10pm, Sat. 8am-3pm, Sun. 9am-2pm
LOCATION: 550 mts. West of Rosti Pollo in TM
Sabana Norte - Corobici
(2-231-5542 / http://multispa.net/webflash/gimnasios.htm#corobici / corobici@multispa.net)
HOURS: Mon.-Fri. 5am-10pm, Sat. 8am-4pm, Sun. 9am-3pm
LOCATION: 200 mts North & 50 mts SouthEast of Rosti Pollo-Sabana
San Jose
(2-258-2220 / http://multispa.net/webflash/gimnasios.htm#sanjose / sanjose@multispa.net)
HOURS: Mon.-Fri. 5am-10pm, Sat. 8am-4pm, Sun. 9am-3pm
LOCATION: SouthEast corner of Parque Central.
Cipreses
(2-271-0357 / http://www.multispa.net/webflash/gimnasios.htm#cipreses / cipreses@multispa.net)
HOURS: Mon.-Fri. 5am-10pm, Sat. 8am-4pm, Sun. 8am-3pm
LOCATION: 400 mts Norte La Galera Bomba (gas station)
2 different weight lifting areas, divided by the different areas you want to train. We have world known brands such as: Life Fitness, Precor and Paramount, 2nd floor, in a width and spacious area with fresh air, we located our specialized cardio equipment of famous brands such as: Life Fitness, Precor and Paramount, their aerobic area has a professional Robbins sport surface. This floor is specialized in shock absorption, and offers stability, which helps you prevent knee and joint injuries, yoga, power racing, boot camp, mat pilates, karate, boxing aerobics, Zumba, Fit Body Training, Roping and Boxing++, Nutrionist, Sports Store, Cafe, Personal Training, Kid’s Club, Sauna
HOURS: Mon.-Fri. 5am-10pm, Sat. 7am-6pm, Sun. 9:30am-5pm
LOCATION:
Curridabat - OWNER: Michael (speaks GREAT English [he's from the States]). HOURS: 6am-8pm LOCATION: 100 mts East of Plaza del Sol
Pozos de Santa Ana (2-203-7464 / SantaAna@Curves.co.cr) - LOCATION: Plaza Lindora (across from AutoMercado - on the road going to the airport)
Other Locations: http://curves.co.cr/curvescr.html
Escazu-San Rafael (2-228-4800) - HOURS: LOCATION:
Curridabat (2-225-4440) - LOCATION: 100 mts East of Plaza del Sol. HOURS: 6am-8pm
(2-215-2133 / http://SaintMary.ed.cr/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=26&Itemid=39 / info@saintmary.ed.cr)
Specialized hydraulic equipment for children as well as other classes/programs. Kids 3-12 months - programs/exercises/games to strengthen their joints and muscles. 1-4 years - exercises for the development of the coordination and balance. 4-12 years - Olympic Gymnastics (4 - 12 years): choreographic, acrobatic exercises and work in gymnastic apparatuses. Karate for kids 3-21. Ballet for 7-12 y.o.
.
WORLD GYM
(2-288-4787 / 2-288-4786 / http://WorldGymCR.com / info@WorldGymCR.com)
NEW & HUGE!! POOL (COLD though), Cardio - bikes with respaldo, bikes Elipticals, step mills, versa climbers, wave, indoor cycling. Aerobics - Cardio Kick Boxing, Body Pump, Yoga, Military Training, Pure Pilates, Pilate Fusion, 4x4,Tone, All in one, Tae Bo,Power Step, Ken Box, Latino, Karate 4 Kids, Turbo Jam, Strong Dance, Fat Burn, Ken Box, Aerocombo, Tone, Fat burn, Xtreme Cardio,Intervals,Upper Body, Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, Belly Dance, Regueton Dancing, Striptease Dance, Caribbean Full Dance, Hot Dance, kick Dance, Latin Dance. Muscle madness, Jump box, Box tone, Pump it up, Turbo kickboxing, Sculpting pilates, Low impact, Step ‘n tone. Classes - http://WorldGymCR.com/gimnasios_costa_rica_horarios.htm. Kinesis (Mon. & Fri. 6am, 8am, noon, 6pm, Sat. 9am), Indoor Cycling (40 bikes).HOURS: Mon.-Fri. 5am-10pm, Sat. 7am-6pm, Sun. 9am-4pm
NEW LOCATION: Calle Vieja just West of Paco Plaza
ARENATREK
(2-228-7667 / 2-288-2582 / http://ArenaTrekGym.com / info@ArenaTrekGym.com)
Equipment - LifeFitness, Boxing area, Bicycles, Power plate & Pilates Studio, Sauna. Classes - Gliding, Core board training, power jump and Trampolines, Body Pump, Body Combat Body Balance, Drums Alive, Turbo Kickboxing, Step Moves, Yoga, Pilates, Striptease Aerobics, Belly Dance, AfroCaribeno Primitivo Dance, Meditation and Movement.HOURS: Mon.-Fri. 5:30am-9:30pm, Sat. 8am-3pm, Sun. 10am-1pm.
LOCATION: Paco Mall Philipe/Carlos
MULTI SPA
(http://MultiSpa.net)
Escazu - Trejos Montealegre(2-289-5051 / http://multispa.net/webflash/gimnasios.htm#escazu / escazu@multispa.net)
HOURS: Mon.-Fri. 5am-10pm, Sat. 8am-3pm, Sun. 9am-2pm
LOCATION: 550 mts. West of Rosti Pollo in TM
Sabana Norte - Corobici
(2-231-5542 / http://multispa.net/webflash/gimnasios.htm#corobici / corobici@multispa.net)
HOURS: Mon.-Fri. 5am-10pm, Sat. 8am-4pm, Sun. 9am-3pm
LOCATION: 200 mts North & 50 mts SouthEast of Rosti Pollo-Sabana
San Jose
(2-258-2220 / http://multispa.net/webflash/gimnasios.htm#sanjose / sanjose@multispa.net)
HOURS: Mon.-Fri. 5am-10pm, Sat. 8am-4pm, Sun. 9am-3pm
LOCATION: SouthEast corner of Parque Central.
Cipreses
(2-271-0357 / http://www.multispa.net/webflash/gimnasios.htm#cipreses / cipreses@multispa.net)
HOURS: Mon.-Fri. 5am-10pm, Sat. 8am-4pm, Sun. 8am-3pm
LOCATION: 400 mts Norte La Galera Bomba (gas station)
FITSIMONS
San Jose - Sabana Sur (2-296-0264 / http://Fitsimons.com)2 different weight lifting areas, divided by the different areas you want to train. We have world known brands such as: Life Fitness, Precor and Paramount, 2nd floor, in a width and spacious area with fresh air, we located our specialized cardio equipment of famous brands such as: Life Fitness, Precor and Paramount, their aerobic area has a professional Robbins sport surface. This floor is specialized in shock absorption, and offers stability, which helps you prevent knee and joint injuries, yoga, power racing, boot camp, mat pilates, karate, boxing aerobics, Zumba, Fit Body Training, Roping and Boxing++, Nutrionist, Sports Store, Cafe, Personal Training, Kid’s Club, Sauna
HOURS: Mon.-Fri. 5am-10pm, Sat. 7am-6pm, Sun. 9:30am-5pm
LOCATION:
STRONG & FIT
(234-1813 / MAdenauer@gmail.com)
The male version of Slim & Tone - a more or less 30 minute workout club.Curridabat - OWNER: Michael (speaks GREAT English [he's from the States]). HOURS: 6am-8pm LOCATION: 100 mts East of Plaza del Sol
FOR GALS ONLY
CURVES
(http://Curves.co.cr / 800-685-3737 / Curveses@racsa.co.cr) - 30-minute workout
Escazu (San Rafael) (2-288-2480 / Escazu@curves.co.cr) - HOURS: Mon.-Fri. 6am-1pm & 4-8pm, Sat. 8am-12:30pm. CONTACT: Natalia Salazar Zamora / Manager - Mariela Mora Hidalgo. LOCATION: ON Calle Vieja AT Plaza Country Club - 2nd FloorPozos de Santa Ana (2-203-7464 / SantaAna@Curves.co.cr) - LOCATION: Plaza Lindora (across from AutoMercado - on the road going to the airport)
Other Locations: http://curves.co.cr/curvescr.html
SLIM & TONE
(http://SlimAndToneCR.com [currently down but coming back up soon] / 2-234-1813 / madenauer@gmail.com) - A 30 minute workout club.Escazu-San Rafael (2-228-4800) - HOURS: LOCATION:
Curridabat (2-225-4440) - LOCATION: 100 mts East of Plaza del Sol. HOURS: 6am-8pm
KIDS
Kidz Power Gimnasio Infantil(2-215-2133 / http://SaintMary.ed.cr/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=26&Itemid=39 / info@saintmary.ed.cr)
Specialized hydraulic equipment for children as well as other classes/programs. Kids 3-12 months - programs/exercises/games to strengthen their joints and muscles. 1-4 years - exercises for the development of the coordination and balance. 4-12 years - Olympic Gymnastics (4 - 12 years): choreographic, acrobatic exercises and work in gymnastic apparatuses. Karate for kids 3-21. Ballet for 7-12 y.o.
.
Saturday, August 2, 2008
WHERE TO FIND SOMEONE IN COSTA RICA - YELLOW PAGES or the WHITE PAGES
HOW TO FIND SOMEONE IN COSTA RICA - YELLOW PAGES or the WHITE PAGES
INTERNET: http://AmarillasDelice.com
BUSINESSES - YELLOW PAGES - http://AmarillasDelice.com/pag_amarillas.php
RESIDENTIAL - WHITE PAGES - http://AmarillasDelice.com/pag_blancas.php
WHERE TO GET A PHYSICAL WHITE PAGES OR YELLOW PAGES PHONE BOOK:
If one has not been delivered to you, you can pick a up at any Cruz Roja / Red Cross. Please gift them with a donation (I gave them a couple thousand colones)
.
INTERNET: http://AmarillasDelice.com
BUSINESSES - YELLOW PAGES - http://AmarillasDelice.com/pag_amarillas.php
RESIDENTIAL - WHITE PAGES - http://AmarillasDelice.com/pag_blancas.php
WHERE TO GET A PHYSICAL WHITE PAGES OR YELLOW PAGES PHONE BOOK:
If one has not been delivered to you, you can pick a up at any Cruz Roja / Red Cross. Please gift them with a donation (I gave them a couple thousand colones)
.
Thursday, July 24, 2008
ORGANIC FERIA - FOODS (VEGETABLES, FRUITS & MORE) & DELIVERY IN COSTA RICA
ORGANIC FERIA - FOODS & DELIVERY IN COSTA RICA
VEGETABLES, FRUITS & MORE
VEGETABLES, FRUITS & MORE
ESCAZU (CENTRO) ORGANIC & NATURAL FERIA / FARMERS MARKET
WHEN: Wednesdays from 8-11am
http://BuenaTierraOrganicMarket.blogspot.com / BuenaTierra.organica@gmail.com
Organizers Honey (she organizes the Montezuma, Malpais/Santa Teresa/Playa Carmen, Tambor ones on Saturdays) / Fiona (BuenaTierra@hotmail.es) / and Laura (LauraBarra@hotmail.com) with Buena Tierra Organic Produce bring you the Centro Escazu ORGANIC & NATURAL FERIA / FARMERS MARKET!!! They have THE BIGGEST & MOST BEAUTIFUL, LUSCIOUS-LOOKING organic veges and fruit I’ve EVER seen!!! When I’ve been there, I found most veges were around 400-c each (like bokchoy, herbs, various lettuces, cucumber) to 800-c+ and WORTH IT (these were better than most pumped up veges I've ever seen!) and they’re Certified Organic! Carola sells exquisite goat and cow yogurts and cheeses made in her farm in Coronado. Maria Fernanda delights us with her body and face soaps, creams, essential oils all made from organic herbs. Ena and Jaguar bake uncomparable bromate free brown bread flavored with organic herbs, seeds and nuts. Otto and his wife Melanie offer excellent biodegradable, ecological cleaning products. They even now have chocolate!!! Come support this AWESOME endevour (especially if you want to see it succeed!!), love your body & make some new friends with other like-minded people!!
LOCATION: Escazu Centro - Behind the playground/basketball court next to the Biblioteca de las Damas Voluntarias Library - across the street from the Red Cross - 50 mts North of the Cemetery.
Laura with the ESCAZU (CENTRO) ORGANIC & NATURAL FERIA / FARMERS MARKET is now offering a ORGANIC FOOD DELIVERY! Request an order form from her at buenatierra@hotmail.es Send your order in BY Monday morning for delivery on Wed. Delivery is currently only in the West end of the Central Valley)!! The delivery fee is 1,000-c within Esaczu & 1,500-c in the Santa Ana/Rohrmoser area (inquire for Cuidad Colon and other areas).
THIS DELIVERY SERVICE HAS BEEN CANCELED SINCE THEY ARE OPENING THEIR OWN MARKET IN JANUARY UP IN ESCAZU CENTRO!!
The largest ORGANIC FERIA:
San Jose - PASO ANCHO -
HOURS: Sat. 6am-till they run out (which can be VERY early!!)
There are about a 20 vendors. Note it’s hard to park & crazy!
LOCATION: 400 mtrs from catholic church/iglesia.
AROUND & ABOUT IN COSTA RICA
Honey - the organizer of the Escazu Organic Feria also does the:
PUNTARENAS AREA:
Tambor - Sat. 8am-noon
Montezuma - 10am-noon
Mal Pais - 3pm-sunset
DELIVERY
NATURA STYLE ORGANIC FOOD DELIVERY SERVICE
(http://NaturaStyle.com / 235-7654 / 8-886-0092 sylvia.escalante@naturastyle.com )
They have the broadest selection of products from Organic fruits/veges, baked goods, snacks, vitamins, herbs, meats, plants – even organic dirt +++. They carry MANY other "healthy" things - not just fruits & veges!!)
Order BY Thurs. for delivery Sat. (tell Sylvia that "Vallarta Vicki" referred you!)
I used to use them when I did, I was overall pretty happy (except in rainy season when MOST veges/fruits aren't that pretty/plentiful anyways!!). I find their website VERY EASY for me!
Check out their products in English at http://naturastyle.com/en/productos.asp
Vegetables & Fruits (organic & not but it’s indicated. Some hard to find & unique things).
Dairy Products like goat milk/products (including goat cheese with herbs, pasteurized OR raw goat’s milk & yogurt, goats ricotta cheese, goat’s raw soft cheese & flavored goats yogurt; heavy cream; pasteurized mozzarella cheese; buttermilk, organic infertile eggs, pasteurized, sesame seed OR raw butter, sour cream or milk.
Cereals - by Bioland & Nutresol –Amaranth, barley powder, granola, oatmeal, wheat germ or bran & whole oats.
Grains, Beans & Seeds – Amaranth, barley grain, black or red beans; brown rice (non-organic [booooh]); millet; wheat berries; soy & mung beans, chan, flax, sesame & sunflower seeds.
Dry Fruits & Nuts - Almond (non-organic); dehydrated banana; cashew nut; dehydrated prunes; raisins; walnuts (non-organic [booooh]).
Flours & Misc. - Soy OR whole wheat flour; Agar algae gelatin; ground coconut (non-organic); wheat gluten
Misc. – Corn tortillas (with or without cheese); Pastas - like carrot or spinach; pineapple empanada
Bakery goods like breads (sold by the piece) - Brown breads with goodies added like figs, orange, spice OR banana; chocolate, oatmeal or ginger cookies (all organic!!) ; banana cake (though I didn’t taste much of a banana taste) OR fruit cake
Salts & Sugars - Organic pure brown sugar; sea salt; organic sugar candy/tapa dulce
Honeys & Jams - Honey – plain, with ginseng OR lecitin; black berry, guava, mango/tomato, mango/ orange OR tomato/organic organic marmalade; molasses, peanut butter; strawberry jam
Oils – Coconut or sesame
Sauces, Vinegars & Pickles - Brown rice; hot pickled peppers; salad dressing; soy sauce, tomato sauce
Soy Products - Soy milk – plain or with carob; soy protein
Snacks - Bars – Amaranth, cereal (traditional or organic), chocolate bar –with peanuts OR vanilla (non-organic), original or with coconut, ginger, guarana or mint organic, crunch chocolate, oat, sesame (MY FAV!!) OR sunflower (Katrina’s fav!). Cookies with whole oats (regular OR with orange), sweetened with carob OR soy. Crackers – Sodiet (soda?) OR wheat bran. Rice cakes. Sesame seed nachitos; sesame seed sticks.
Organic Meats - Chicken – organs, thighs OR breasts; calamari; congrio fish; pinki shrimp; sailfish; sea bass; small shrimp
Wine - Setsobua – Cabernet/sauvignon, shiraz or white Mezza luna.
Teas & Coffees - Teas – Basil, organic black tea, juanilama, lemon grass, linden, mixed – juanilama & lemon grass OR digestive. Organic Coffee (grain or ground). Corn drink coffee substitute.
Algae - Long strip kelp or nori/laver/porphyra seaweed.
Supplements & Medicines - Algae capsules; aloe capsules; bee pollen; brewers yeast; EM (some powerful stuff!! “efficient micro-organisms); flax fiber; ginseng syrup OR capsules; lecithin capsules, Noni extract; Pro-B; royal jelly capsules; spirulina capsules; aloe gel.
Personal Care (I’m not going to list everything here but they have crystal OR natural deodorant; organic soaps; cleansing creams; creams; shampoos & rinses; clay masks (we did that the other day – REALLY tightens up those pours!!!) & body soap; hydrating cream; facial cream; organic sun block (8-85 & 45 AND for kids) & tanning oils.
PLANTS (all organic so you could even grow your own!!!):
Herbs (organic) - Aloe; basil, celery; lemon grass; mint; oregano; parsley; peppermint; rosemary; sage; tarragon; thyme.
Plants (organic) - Bougainvillea; croton; guava; lemon; mandarin (more like real lemons); mango; noni; orange; plantain herb; rose; rue; violet; weeping fig; wormwood;
Even earthworms; Compost; organic soil!
Remember this is NOT dealing directly with A farm - they are a delivery service so OF COURSE it's going to be more expensive on many things (though I’ve been shocked at their MUCH LOWER prices on many things you can find in the market) as they get all the products together for you so you're not having to run all over town & back, searching, etc. You're paying for the convenience (WELL worth it to me!!! The delivery fee is just 1,2000 colon).
Wednesday, July 23, 2008
WONDERFUL Organic Feria/Farmers Market Wednesdays in Escazu Centro!!
ESCAZU (CENTRO) ORGANIC & NATURAL FERIA / FARMERS MARKET
WHEN: Wednesdays from 8-11am
http://BuenaTierraOrganicMarket.blogspot.com / BuenaTierra.organica@gmail.com
Organizers Honey (she organizes the Montezuma, Malpais/Santa Teresa/Playa Carmen, Tambor ones on Saturdays) / Fiona (BuenaTierra@hotmail.es) / and Laura (LauraBarra@hotmail.com) with Buena Tierra Organic Produce bring you the Centro Escazu ORGANIC & NATURAL FERIA / FARMERS MARKET!!!
They have THE BIGGEST & MOST BEAUTIFUL, LUSCIOUS-LOOKING organic veges and fruit I’ve EVER seen!!! When I’ve been there, I found most veges were around 400-c each (like bokchoy, herbs, various lettuces, cucumber) to 800-c+ and WORTH IT (these were better than most pumped up veges I've ever seen!) and they’re Certified Organic!!
Carola sells exquisite goat and cow yogurts and cheeses made in her farm in Coronado. Maria Fernanda delights us with her body and face soaps, creams, essential oils all made from organic herbs. Ena and Jaguar bake uncomparable bromate free brown bread flavored with organic herbs, seeds and nuts. Otto and his wife Melanie offer excellent biodegradable, ecological cleaning products. They even now have chocolate!!!
Come support this AWESOME endevour (especially if you want to see it succeed!!), love your body & make some new friends with other like-minded people!!
Laura is now offering a Delivery Service! Request an order form from her at buenatierra@hotmail.es & send your order in BY Monday morning!! The delivery fee is 1,000-c within Esaczu & 1,500-c in the Santa Ana/Rohrmoser area.
DIRECTIONS: Escazu Centro - Behind the playground/basketball court next to the Biblioteca de las Damas Voluntarias Library - across the street from the Red Cross - 50 mts North of the Cemetery.
(NOTE: The feria is just around the corner from Robin’s Cosina/Pies new cafe!!! You better bet I’ll be there getting a piece of my newest addiction - her chocolate mocha pie [& I don’t even like mocha/coffee!!]! Ya GOTTA try her passionfruit/maricura pie!!!)
Tuesday, July 15, 2008
Better Quality BEDDING and SHEETS in Costa Rica (where to find)
Most of the bedding I've found in Costa Rica doesn't seem to even have a "thread count' on it so Goddess only knows what it is and it often is quite rough and scratchy and often the elastic on the bottom sheet doesn't last long (that's been MY experience). Costa Rica is REALLY lacking in GOOD QUALITY bedding/sheets for sheet snobs like myself (my bed (a complete memory foam bed with NO coils [coils in a bed are REALLY BAD for anyone with High Blood Pressure, Pain and/or Arthritis!!!!]) is my SANCTUARY and I use soft/sensuous sheets of 600+ thread counts and have the MOST LUSCIOUS blanket I've EVER found (from Orotex below)!! I sleep so little so when I do, I want it to be a MAGICAL experience!!!
Finding special/cool sheets - hahahahhahaha!!!
Below is a list of some places where I've found bedding of at least 200 count (again - finding thread count listed on sheets in CR is RARE so we start with what we have to!!).
The BEST QUALITY in bedding for the BEST PRICE I get them online at: http://Overstock.com/18451/static.html?CID=134045&fp=f&TRACK=emailcusts & have people bring them to me! Shipping of your WHOLE order within the U.S. is just $1!! They also have AMAZING prices for Memory Foam Toppers which are shipped quite tightly and I’ve had people bring me king size ones in their suitcase! I just ordered some 330 Thread Count Solid Sateen Sheet Set for just $23!!
HOME and DRESS CLUB
NOW LOCATED IN PAVAS (2-290-8631 / 2-291-8633) / HomeAndDressClub@gmail.com)
They are an outlet for Bloomingdales, Macy’s, Calvin Kline, Donna Karan, Ralph Lauren, Hotel Collection+ and often have sales of 20-60% Off!!!
DIRECTIONS: 100 East of La Artistica, carretera a Pavas, contiguo a Fiesta Centro.
HOURS: Mon.-Sat. 10am-6pm.
TROPICAL BED and BATH
(2-282-8653 / 2-282-8712 / http://TropicalBedAndBath.com / info@tropicalbed.com)
They have all types of thread counts (their website indicates 200-650 count!!), and for extra deep and extra-extra deep mattresses. Katrina said they had some REALLY NICE QUALITY sheets!!
DIRECTIONS: Santa Ana – Their ad shows it’s off the Pista at the Santa Ana/Airport exit. Turn Right towards Pozos. At the street where the MATRA heavy duty trucks/equipment rental/sales is (across from Bosques de Lindora), turn Right and back a bit is a little office space in Bodega Los Higuerones – Local #3.
HOURS: Mon.-Sat. 9:30 to 7pm and Sun. 10am-5pm
LINO’S Y BLANCOS
(2-228-8085 / MichelleG@racsa.co.cr)
Decent quality bedding at pretty good prices.
OWNER: Michelle Giustiniani Reyes.
DIRECTIONS: Guachipelin - Plaza Mundo, Locales 2y3
HOURS: Mon.-Sat. 9:30am-6:30pm
BEDS, BATH and MORE
(2-223-9553 / http://BedsBathAndMore.com / info@BedsBathAndMore.com)
Wally and Todd with Hotel Bula Bula in Plaza Grande (near Tamarindo / http://HotelBulaBula.com [old buds from my San Francisco days]) SWEAR by this store!! I went and didn’t find anything I wanted to buy but it could be. They do have some sheets up to 400 count but we noticed some from KMart.
DIRECTIONS: San Jose - Paseo Colon in the plaza where Quiznos is (Costado Sur?), diagonal a Toyota Purdy Motors.
HOURS: Mon.-Sat. 9:30am-6pm Sun. 10am-5pm
SILVER THREADS Fine Linen and Towels - The store is no longer but you can still get these high end/high quality European sheets (hence HIGH $$$) privately from the owner. Email me at TheFountainsGuesthouseEscazu@ gmail.com for the direct contact.
DECOR FRANCE
(2-288-1512 /
Slightly flawed Queen and King size, 400 thread count sheets for 21,500 and 27,250-c. Hazel (thanx Krysia)
DIRECTIONS: Escazu - Plaza Tabriz - 600 mts south of MultiPlaza
HOURS: Mon.-Sat. 10am-6pm
ROYAL PALM INTERIORS
Ojochal - (2-786-5118 ext. 3 / RoyalPalmInteriors@gmail.com)
Import BAMBOO SHEETS. They are incredibly soft and have an extra deep fitted sheet to accommodate mattresses up to 15” deep. Everyone who has purchased LOVES them!!!
CONTACT: Shelagh Duncan
LOCATION: Ojochl is 30k south of Dominical
HOURS: Tues-Sat 10-5.
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Another option is to buy things online/on the internet/web & have friends/family bring them to you. You can have them shipped to you & though the item could be cheap, they often are in oversized boxes hence there will often be a fee for such oversized boxes.
For this type of option go to:
http://LivingLifeInCostaRica.blogspot.com/2008/11/bedding-sheets-comforters-where-to-find.html
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OROTEX
(2-222-4627 / orotex@racsa.co.cr)
The bedding and bath department and the nice showroom featuring their higher quality fabrics is now located across the street (white building with like a terra cotta trim) of MY FAVORITE fabric store. They're starting to carry some numbered tc sheets (I don't think I've found them over 350tc yet though), they have towels for pretty good prices, a few decorative bathroom things as well as off and on they have some curtains that I LOVE for GREAT prices!! Of course it’s not the high quality I’m used to but the towels I bought here are better than most I’ve found in Costa Rica. The MOST SENSUOUS blanket I have EVER felt I found at Orotex for under $35 for a King!! DELICIOUS!!! Francisco is one of my main buds there (he speaks some English). Gustavo Jop and a few other family members up front speak GOOD English.
DIRECTIONS: San Jose - Calles 38-40 Ave. 4 (about 1/2 block South/East of ARCR)
HOURS: Mon.-Fri. 8am-12:30pm and 1:30-6pm (note that USUALLY they do NOT re-open at 1:30pm so don't rush in!!)
HiperMas
Aliss - Lower thread count but some cooler styles
Cemaco
PriceSmart has some 200-ish thread count sheets but mainly in white.
CHEAPO CHEAPO CHEAPO!!!
PEQUEÑO MUNDO (http://PequenoMundo.com / 2- 2801200-main office in Curridabat)
CHEAP CHEAP CHEAP - LOW quality, chachkis – like a dime-store. GOOD for some things like hammers & screw drivers, things like end tables/stands (I have bought a LOT of tose here), kitchen things, sets of dishes for $20. They also have REALLY LOW quality clothes (though I have found some cool silk things there before), towels, sheets+ – all cramed into a small space.
Guachipelín/Escazu (2-288-2111) - Coming from Santa Ana it is a TEENY TINY street/exit off the Pista before MultiPlaza. Coming from SJ it is the exit just past MultiPlaza – at the Guecepelin/ConstruPlaza. This is the BIGGEST ONE I’ve found!! HOURS: Daily from10am-7pm.
Escazu (San Rafael) – next (just to the Right/West of Mas x Menos ON Calle Vieja – JUST West of the Scotia Split (2-289-9246). HOURS: Daily from10am -7pm
San Pedro (2-253-4616) - DIRECTIONS: 100 mts East of San Pedro de Montes de Oca. Del Restaurante “Río”
Curridabat (2-280-1200) - DIRECTIONS: 600 mts East of the San Jose Indoor Club.
Desamparados (2-286-0294) - DIRECTIONS: 700 mts South of the Rotunda
Desamparados y Griega (2-286-0043) - Past the Rotunda at the “Y” Griega
Alajuela (2-431-1596) - 400 mts. West of the central cemetary
Moravia (2-240-2700) - 300 mts. West of the parroquia
If you know of ANY stores that carry some good quality sheets &/or cool bedspreads/comforters, etc. - PLEASE e- me at TheFountainsGuesthouseEscazu@gmail.com
GOOD SHOPPING!!!
Vicki
.
Finding special/cool sheets - hahahahhahaha!!!
Below is a list of some places where I've found bedding of at least 200 count (again - finding thread count listed on sheets in CR is RARE so we start with what we have to!!).
The BEST QUALITY in bedding for the BEST PRICE I get them online at: http://Overstock.com/18451/static.html?CID=134045&fp=f&TRACK=emailcusts & have people bring them to me! Shipping of your WHOLE order within the U.S. is just $1!! They also have AMAZING prices for Memory Foam Toppers which are shipped quite tightly and I’ve had people bring me king size ones in their suitcase! I just ordered some 330 Thread Count Solid Sateen Sheet Set for just $23!!
HOME and DRESS CLUB
NOW LOCATED IN PAVAS (2-290-8631 / 2-291-8633) / HomeAndDressClub@gmail.com)
They are an outlet for Bloomingdales, Macy’s, Calvin Kline, Donna Karan, Ralph Lauren, Hotel Collection+ and often have sales of 20-60% Off!!!
DIRECTIONS: 100 East of La Artistica, carretera a Pavas, contiguo a Fiesta Centro.
HOURS: Mon.-Sat. 10am-6pm.
TROPICAL BED and BATH
(2-282-8653 / 2-282-8712 / http://TropicalBedAndBath.com / info@tropicalbed.com)
They have all types of thread counts (their website indicates 200-650 count!!), and for extra deep and extra-extra deep mattresses. Katrina said they had some REALLY NICE QUALITY sheets!!
DIRECTIONS: Santa Ana – Their ad shows it’s off the Pista at the Santa Ana/Airport exit. Turn Right towards Pozos. At the street where the MATRA heavy duty trucks/equipment rental/sales is (across from Bosques de Lindora), turn Right and back a bit is a little office space in Bodega Los Higuerones – Local #3.
HOURS: Mon.-Sat. 9:30 to 7pm and Sun. 10am-5pm
LINO’S Y BLANCOS
(2-228-8085 / MichelleG@racsa.co.cr)
Decent quality bedding at pretty good prices.
OWNER: Michelle Giustiniani Reyes.
DIRECTIONS: Guachipelin - Plaza Mundo, Locales 2y3
HOURS: Mon.-Sat. 9:30am-6:30pm
BEDS, BATH and MORE
(2-223-9553 / http://BedsBathAndMore.com / info@BedsBathAndMore.com)
Wally and Todd with Hotel Bula Bula in Plaza Grande (near Tamarindo / http://HotelBulaBula.com [old buds from my San Francisco days]) SWEAR by this store!! I went and didn’t find anything I wanted to buy but it could be. They do have some sheets up to 400 count but we noticed some from KMart.
DIRECTIONS: San Jose - Paseo Colon in the plaza where Quiznos is (Costado Sur?), diagonal a Toyota Purdy Motors.
HOURS: Mon.-Sat. 9:30am-6pm Sun. 10am-5pm
SILVER THREADS Fine Linen and Towels - The store is no longer but you can still get these high end/high quality European sheets (hence HIGH $$$) privately from the owner. Email me at TheFountainsGuesthouseEscazu@ gmail.com for the direct contact.
DECOR FRANCE
(2-288-1512 /
Slightly flawed Queen and King size, 400 thread count sheets for 21,500 and 27,250-c. Hazel (thanx Krysia)
DIRECTIONS: Escazu - Plaza Tabriz - 600 mts south of MultiPlaza
HOURS: Mon.-Sat. 10am-6pm
ROYAL PALM INTERIORS
Ojochal - (2-786-5118 ext. 3 / RoyalPalmInteriors@gmail.com)
Import BAMBOO SHEETS. They are incredibly soft and have an extra deep fitted sheet to accommodate mattresses up to 15” deep. Everyone who has purchased LOVES them!!!
CONTACT: Shelagh Duncan
LOCATION: Ojochl is 30k south of Dominical
HOURS: Tues-Sat 10-5.
@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@
Another option is to buy things online/on the internet/web & have friends/family bring them to you. You can have them shipped to you & though the item could be cheap, they often are in oversized boxes hence there will often be a fee for such oversized boxes.
For this type of option go to:
http://LivingLifeInCostaRica.blogspot.com/2008/11/bedding-sheets-comforters-where-to-find.html
@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@
TICO STANDARD BEDDING
(under 250/300 count [more like 100-200 or not numbered and ROUGH])
OROTEX
(2-222-4627 / orotex@racsa.co.cr)
The bedding and bath department and the nice showroom featuring their higher quality fabrics is now located across the street (white building with like a terra cotta trim) of MY FAVORITE fabric store. They're starting to carry some numbered tc sheets (I don't think I've found them over 350tc yet though), they have towels for pretty good prices, a few decorative bathroom things as well as off and on they have some curtains that I LOVE for GREAT prices!! Of course it’s not the high quality I’m used to but the towels I bought here are better than most I’ve found in Costa Rica. The MOST SENSUOUS blanket I have EVER felt I found at Orotex for under $35 for a King!! DELICIOUS!!! Francisco is one of my main buds there (he speaks some English). Gustavo Jop and a few other family members up front speak GOOD English.
DIRECTIONS: San Jose - Calles 38-40 Ave. 4 (about 1/2 block South/East of ARCR)
HOURS: Mon.-Fri. 8am-12:30pm and 1:30-6pm (note that USUALLY they do NOT re-open at 1:30pm so don't rush in!!)
HiperMas
Aliss - Lower thread count but some cooler styles
Cemaco
PriceSmart has some 200-ish thread count sheets but mainly in white.
CHEAPO CHEAPO CHEAPO!!!
PEQUEÑO MUNDO (http://PequenoMundo.com / 2- 2801200-main office in Curridabat)
CHEAP CHEAP CHEAP - LOW quality, chachkis – like a dime-store. GOOD for some things like hammers & screw drivers, things like end tables/stands (I have bought a LOT of tose here), kitchen things, sets of dishes for $20. They also have REALLY LOW quality clothes (though I have found some cool silk things there before), towels, sheets+ – all cramed into a small space.
Guachipelín/Escazu (2-288-2111) - Coming from Santa Ana it is a TEENY TINY street/exit off the Pista before MultiPlaza. Coming from SJ it is the exit just past MultiPlaza – at the Guecepelin/ConstruPlaza. This is the BIGGEST ONE I’ve found!! HOURS: Daily from10am-7pm.
Escazu (San Rafael) – next (just to the Right/West of Mas x Menos ON Calle Vieja – JUST West of the Scotia Split (2-289-9246). HOURS: Daily from10am -7pm
San Pedro (2-253-4616) - DIRECTIONS: 100 mts East of San Pedro de Montes de Oca. Del Restaurante “Río”
Curridabat (2-280-1200) - DIRECTIONS: 600 mts East of the San Jose Indoor Club.
Desamparados (2-286-0294) - DIRECTIONS: 700 mts South of the Rotunda
Desamparados y Griega (2-286-0043) - Past the Rotunda at the “Y” Griega
Alajuela (2-431-1596) - 400 mts. West of the central cemetary
Moravia (2-240-2700) - 300 mts. West of the parroquia
If you know of ANY stores that carry some good quality sheets &/or cool bedspreads/comforters, etc. - PLEASE e- me at TheFountainsGuesthouseEscazu@gmail.com
GOOD SHOPPING!!!
Vicki
.
Monday, July 7, 2008
ROLLER SKATING - ROLLER RINKS in Costa Rica
Salon de Patines - Music Skating Rink
(2-224-6821 / Jason.Music@gmail.com / JasonDMusic@yahoo.com)
FREE LESSONS on Mon. (during normal season)!
Wed. - Special Music Request - YOU get to choose the music!
They have a store that sells all sorts of skate things (including street skates) and a small soda for snacks! The rink can be rented privately for parties and meetings! Kids are welcome though they prefer it be more in the morning/when they're not so busy and you're keeping an eye on them.
This is a "family environment" so no alcohol is sold here!
This family-owned business (the Music’s) has been around in Costa Rica since 1960 (and I believe their grandpa ran a rink in Kentucky even!!). Jason speaks GOOD English (tell him Vicki sent you!!).
HOURS: Regular Hours: Mon.-Fri. 7-10pm, Sat.- 1-3:30, 4-6:30, 7-10pm. Sun. + 10-12:30pm, 1-3:30, 4-6:30, 7-10pm 10am for kids ages. When kids are on break: Daily 10am-12:30pm & 1-3:30pm, 4-6:30 & 7-10pm daily.
COST: $4 (includes skates - $3 if you have your own skates). When you leave they also give you 2x1 ticket for the following week.
DIRECTIONS: San Pedro - 50 mts east of the roundabout Fuente de Hispanidad and the San Pedro Mall or 2 blocks West of the University of Costa Rica.
This is THE skating rink of Costa Rica.
(2-224-6821 / Jason.Music@gmail.com / JasonDMusic@yahoo.com)
FREE LESSONS on Mon. (during normal season)!
Wed. - Special Music Request - YOU get to choose the music!
They have a store that sells all sorts of skate things (including street skates) and a small soda for snacks! The rink can be rented privately for parties and meetings! Kids are welcome though they prefer it be more in the morning/when they're not so busy and you're keeping an eye on them.
This is a "family environment" so no alcohol is sold here!
This family-owned business (the Music’s) has been around in Costa Rica since 1960 (and I believe their grandpa ran a rink in Kentucky even!!). Jason speaks GOOD English (tell him Vicki sent you!!).
HOURS: Regular Hours: Mon.-Fri. 7-10pm, Sat.- 1-3:30, 4-6:30, 7-10pm. Sun. + 10-12:30pm, 1-3:30, 4-6:30, 7-10pm 10am for kids ages. When kids are on break: Daily 10am-12:30pm & 1-3:30pm, 4-6:30 & 7-10pm daily.
COST: $4 (includes skates - $3 if you have your own skates). When you leave they also give you 2x1 ticket for the following week.
DIRECTIONS: San Pedro - 50 mts east of the roundabout Fuente de Hispanidad and the San Pedro Mall or 2 blocks West of the University of Costa Rica.
This is THE skating rink of Costa Rica.
Thursday, June 12, 2008
TOURISTS - AIRPORTS and AIRLINE INFO SJO JUAN SANTAMARIA / SAN JOSE, COSTA RICA
(this is by NO means THE list of lists! Things change. Just sharin' some info & leads! Share back - please notify us of any changes/additions).
There's FREE WiFi/WIRELESS Internet throughout the Airport!!AIRPORT NUMBERS:
SAN JOSE - SJO (Juan SantaMaria): 2-437-2626 (I also have 2-441-0744 but no one's ever answered it??)
PAVAS (Tobias Bolanos): 2-232-2472
LIBERIA - Guanacaste (I've seen it called Daniel Oduber as well as Tomas Guardia??): 2-668-1010 (I've also seen 2-666-0695)
LIMON: 2-758-1379
ARRIVAL & DEPARTURE INFO (like the screens at the airport - cool!!): http://alterra.co.cr/FIWS/index.aspx
AUTOMATED FLIGHT INFO:
2-437-2626 - English-9 Arrival-1 Departures-2 (I find it hasn’t worked properly 90% of the time for me)
GENERAL AIRPORT INFO:
Client Services: 2-443-1737 / 2-443-1244-fax (5am-10pm) (they speak GOOD English & are REALLY helpful with ANY questions you have!! They can NOT page anyone)
AIRPORT TAXI:
http://TaxiAeropuerto.com/ing_index.shtml
Louis Fernando is a driver with them that speaks a fair amount of English (8-840-1907 / 2-443-6332-Alejuela / Luis10@CostaRRicense@CR)
PARKING - AIRPORT - SHORTER TERM:
$16/8,850-c/day. $2.50/1,350 colones/hour (2-440-6700-sheltered garage with guard / 2-437-2400-office)
PARKING - LONGER TERM:
Park & Fly - http://ParkAndFlyCR.com / 2-441-1401 / 2-440-3134 / info@ParkAndFlyCR.com
Open 24/7, FREE transportation to the airport. DIRECTIONS: To Aeropuerto Juan SantaMaría - 500 mts North of hacia Alajela por la radial Francisco Orlich
INTERNATIONAL AIRLINES:
AeroRepublica (coming soon - Bogota, Medellin, Panama City-SJO)
Air Canada - 2-441-8025-English-9 8am-1pm Mon.-Sat. / 2-243-1860 / 0800-052-1988 / http://AirCanada.ca
Air China (coming)
Air Comet - 2-291-0684 (8am-noon) / http://AirComet.com (only Sat. Madrid-SJO)
Air France (KLM) – 2-220-4111 (only ticket office - no flights to CR) / http://AirFrance.com/cr
Air Panama – 2-222-0712 / 2-222-0753-fax / 8-392-4256 / 2-601-1007 / 2-296-8592? / 507-316-9000 / 507-315-0439 (I'm giving you their Panama #s as I have yet to get through to their ticket office and they have not emailed me back) / http://FlyAirPanama.com
Air Transat - 2-441-9444 / http://AirTransat.com (Montreal, Toronto-SJO seasonal)
America West - 2-430-6690 / 0800-0110888 / http://AmericaWest.com
American - 2-442-8800 / 2-257-1266 / 2-248-9010 / 1-800-433-7300-U.S. / www.AA.com (Dallas, Ft. Lauderdale, Los Angeles [seasonal], Miami)
TICKET OFFICES:
San Jose - Sabana Este - DIRECTIONS: Centro Cars Building - next to Mas x Meno & across the street of the Hotel Corobici - just at the entrance of the hwy to Alajuela. HOURS: Mon.-Fri. 8:30am-7pm, Sat. 9am-1pm. ADVANCE CHECK IN: Mon.-Fri. 9am-5pm
Escazu (Guachipelin) - Plaza Roble - in front of MultiPlaza - 1st Floor - Blvd. Camino Real. HOURS: Mon.-Fri. 9am-6pm, Sat. 9am-1pm. ADVANCE CHECK IN: Mon.-Fri. 9am-5pm
San Pedro / Curridabat - DIRECTIONS: Edificio Torre del Este - Frente Facultad de Derecho - De La Universidad De Costa Rica. HOURS: Mon.-Fri. 9am-6pm, Sat. 9am-1pm. ADVANCE CHECK IN: Mon.-Fri. 9am-4pm (THANX Daniel)
Avianca - (Bogota, Columbia-SFO 4 times week)
China Eastern (coming)
Continental - 2-440-0580 (ask for Cristian Porras to help you, he speaks REALLY GOOD English, is VERY service orientated [& a cutie!!])/ 2-442-1904 / 2-286-4911 / 0800-044-0005 / Cargo in Houston - 1-800-421-2456 / 2 / 2 / http://Continental.com)
Condor - 2-430-4787 / 2-441-9444 / 2-243-1818 / http://Condor.com
Copa - 2-441-4742 / 2-441-8243 / 2-223-2672 / 2-295-7400 / 1-800-359-2673 / http://CopaAir.com
Cubana - 2-430-4787 / 2-221-7625 / 2-221-6918 / http://Cubana.cu
Delta - 2-440-4805 / 2-257-4141 / 0800-056-2002 / http://Delta.com (NY 5 times/week)
Frontier - Denver-SJO (only Dec. 18-Sept. 4) http://FrontierAirlines.com / in the U.S. 1-800-432-1359 / 1-303-371-7000. Departs Denver at 12:10am & arrives into CR at 6:25am - Return - 6:30am-12:15pm.
Iberia - 2-441-5635 / 2-257-8266 / http://Iberia.com
KLM (Air France) – 2-220-4111 (only ticket office - no flights to CR) / http://KLM.com
LACSA (TACA) - 2-443-3555 / http://TACA.com
MartinAir - 2-440-8848 / 2-232-3246 / http://MartinAir.com
Mexicana - 2-441-9377 / 2-295-6969 / http://Mexicana.com
Nature Air - Pavas Airport (they are in Pavas/Rhomoser - NOT at SJO) – 2-299-6070 (counter) / 2-299-6000 / http://NatureAir.com
NorthWest (Liberia Airport I believe) – 2-668-1078
SANSA - 2-442-9385 / 2-223-4179 / 2-221-9414 / 2-290-4400-office / 1-877-767-2672-US / http://FlySansa.com
Sky Services (charter out of Canada into Liberia only [I think])
Spirit Airlines - 1-800-756-7117-in Spanish / 1-800-772-7117-U.S. / 0-800-011-1103 / 2-430-7815-Baggage Claim / http://SpiritAir.com
(NOTE: Spirit goes to MANY other Countries BUT you will ALWAYS have to go via Ft. Lauderdale [and sometimes overnight]. They fly to ARUBA, BAHAMAS - Nassau, San Salvador, CAYMEN ISLANDS - Grand Cayman, COLUMBIA - Bogata, Cartagena, DOMINICAN REPUBLIC - Santo Domingo, Punta Cana, GUATAMALA - Guatamala City, HAITI - Port au Prince, HONDURAS - San Pedro Sula, JAMAICA - Kingston, Montego Bay, MEXICO - Cancun, NICARAGUA - Managua, PANAMA - Panama City, PERU - Lima, PUERTO RICO - San Jan, Aguadilla, Ponce, TURKS & CAICOS ISLANDS - Providenciales, USVI - US VIRGIN ISLAND - St. Thomas, St. Maarten
TACA (LACSA) - 2-443-3555 / 2-257-9444 / 2-296-9533 / http://TACA.com (now to David, Panama to SJO)
United - 2-441-8025 (only on Mon, Wed. Sat. 10:30am-2pm). 2-234-3434 / 2-220-4844 / http://United.com Liberia Airport - Sat. & Sun. 668-1194
USAir - 2-430-6690 / 2-520-0593 / 0800-011-0793 / http://USAirways.com
(the numbers that start with a “4” are for the counter AT the airport. The 800 type numbers and those that start with a 2 are mainly ticket offices NOT at the airport. Get updated info at www.alterra.co.cr/FIWS/contactAerolinea.aspx)
SENIORS:
Seniors are WELL respected in Costa Rica! In most instances, you get to go to the head of the line including for security, immigration and customs. Each airline has a different starting age for what constitutes a “senior”.
Wednesday, June 11, 2008
Thurs. June 12 - Alternative Energetic/ Holistic Healing Practitioner Festival and 5th Ann of Tienda de Armonia
WHAT: A FESTIVAL featuring various Alternative Energetic/ Holistic Healing Practitioners and celebrating the 5th Anniversary of Tienda de Armonia / Wind and Water (Feng Shui / harmony store) (http://TiendaDeArmonia.com / 2-201-8393) is happening on
WHEN: THURS. JUNE 12th from 6:30-9pm
WHERE: MultiPlaza West/Escazu – in front of Tienda de Armonia’s Kiosk (bottom level – East end near Hulligen’s & the ICON Apple store)
The public is welcome to come learn and participate and meet practitioners sharing their service, presenting demonstrations, meditations, healings, etc. for free!
Participants will have a table and many will have a few minutes to share about their service.
Here’s a sample list of participants that have already confirmed:
6:30pm – Flower Therapy with Penelope Bayona (PenelopeBayona@gmail.com / 8-383-4216)
7:30pm - Reiki with the ABSOLUTELY WONDERFUL Energy Worker Ramon Martinez (EstrellaPistola@yahoo.com) performing a Cheyenne Reiki ritual with Dragons of Light, for purification and protection of the planet, Costa Rica and yourself. If you would like to participate, bring a candle and a paper with your desires written on the paper. He will spread his Mandala Star of Earth on the floor and you can be blessed also. Reiki treatments are also possible. For me, Ramon is an AMAZING energy worker who has shared his gift with me with WONDERFUL results (including assisting me in re-discovering my violet light!!! Vicki).
The Intention of Feng Shui - Iside Sarmiento (http://LivingSpacesCR.com / 8-851-8899 / contact@LivingSpacesCR.com) - Feng Shui Consultation, Geobiology, Land Analysis, Interior Design and Architecture
Chi en aplicaciones de belleza - Frank Martin (FrankMartinHair@hotmail.com / 8-392-9922) - Frank is an WONDERFUL Hair Stylist that’s uses natural hair products in Desamparados
Bio Bella - Monika Bingen-Hara (http://BioBellaOrganics.com / 8-393-2401 / info@BioBellaOrganics.com)
Ayurveda - Leonardo Cordero (http://DisfruteLaVida.com / 8-302-1428 / 2-228-1350 / DisfruteLaVida@gmail.com)
Yoga with Nityananda (pronounced “Neatee”) Das-Paz (http://NityanandaDas.com / 8-371-0344) (Hatha & Bhakti [23 years doing it – private & group classes in Escazu]), Ayurveda (1st Level), Reiki (Energy Flow 1st), Veda, Massage (Yogassage), Henna Tattoos, I-Ching, Egyptian Tarot, Chef (Vegetarian Indian Food, Asian Food "Sushi", Veggie Food), Cloth Design (Indian Fashion Dress), Meditation (Saguna), Jyotish (Vedic Natal Chart, Indian Astrology). As well as Graphics (business cards, brochures, logo design), Web Design (inquire about his Event Specials!!!), Art & Tools, DJ & English Translation.
Also – Diane Evans – Zen Shiatsu Therapist & Thai Massage (8-832-4325 / Diane.Evans2@gmail.com) Together they’re doing a Thai Massage Class on Sat. June 28 from 9am-5pm at Kapoli http://nityanandadas.com/img/ui/massage.png
Also - The Fountains Guesthouse & The House of Self Empowerment Workshop, Holistic Healing & Retreat Space in Escazu (http://FountainsGuesthouse.com / 8-378-6679) with Vicki
Shiatsu - Davide (ilramofiorito88@gmail.com / 2-224-4985)
Meditation del Aura - CasaSana - John Laurent (olympo@yahoo.com / 8-396-5764)
Sal de Himalaya - Il ramo fiorito (IlramoFiorito88@gmail.com / 2-224-4985)
Tai Chi - Ligia Chavaria (TaiChiCR@gmail.com / ligiaisa@gmail.com / 8-829-0237)
Ashtanga Yoga Demonstration de series avanzadas - Mariela Cruz (http://AshtangaYogaCostaRica.com / AshtangaCostaRica@gmail.com / 8-393-1803)
Lumta Yoga Studio - Rocio Hernandez (RHernandezS@bp.fi.cr / 8-369-5295)
Qi kung - Mariano Ardissone (http://AyamaYoga.com / manoyoga@bellsouth.net / 8-375-7354)
Iridology, Tonic Detoxification - Jimena Martinez (jimenamguillen@gmail.com / 8-868-4830)
Organic Food - Lula Catering (http://NinasKitchen.net / 2-281-3060 / mlGarcia@NinasKitchen.net)
Aromatherapy - Aromaflor (sewakCR@gmail.com / 8-833-0253)
Sound Therapy & Mantras - Larisa Coto (LarisaCoto@hotmail.com / 8-817-7873)
Attitude Organic Dead Sea Skin Care Products - Ayama (http://Attitudeline.com / 8-372-0538 / ReinaDelMar7@gmail.com
Hippocampus Bioresonancia Devices (BRT) - Pepe Bayona (http://Hippocampus-brt.com / 8-347-3040 / PepeBayona@gmail.com)
OMMM Yoga Studio - Orit Tarkay (8-332-3534 / Otarkay@gmail.com)
Kapoli Yoga Center - Silvia Monge (http://Kapoli.net / 2-228-1350 / JardinKapoli@gmail.com)
Krama Yoga - Esteban Salazar (http://KramaYoga.com / 8-369-1508 / kio21@hotmail.com, yogi_es@yahoo.com, info@kramayoga.com)
Iridologia - Teresa Martinez (2-288-6112 / IriMex@iname.com)
Noni - Adrian Villalobos (http://CostaRicaNoni.com / Adrian@CostaRicaNoni.com)
Shamanismo - Nora Badilla (http://TejedoraDeUniversos.com / 8-858-6803)
Acupuncture - Martha Vargas Piedra (8-385-4018)
Reiki & Holistic Therapy - Deyanira Perez (http://ManosDeMariposa.blogspot.com / 2-269-6791 / ManosDeMariposa@gmail.com)
A few additional modalities they’re waiting to confirm: Sound Therapy, Mantras and Reflexology.
This festival is going to be an AWESOME way to connect with other like-minded people, learn about various services as well as network (bring your own business cards!!). It's going to be an Energy interchange so please pass on this information to all you think could benefit from it.
MultiPlaza is donating the space and chairs, Radio 911 (http://911LaRadio.com) will donate the sound (microphone, iPod and CD for those that require sound for their presentation) and Wind and Water (http://TiendaDeArmonia.com / 2-201-8393) contributes the tables, refreshments. Living Spaces http://LivingSpacesCR.com
CONTACT INFO: Iside Sarmiento with Living Spaces (8-851-8899 / 2-201-8393 / http://FengShuiCostaRica.com / isar9@yahoo.com)
.
WHEN: THURS. JUNE 12th from 6:30-9pm
WHERE: MultiPlaza West/Escazu – in front of Tienda de Armonia’s Kiosk (bottom level – East end near Hulligen’s & the ICON Apple store)
The public is welcome to come learn and participate and meet practitioners sharing their service, presenting demonstrations, meditations, healings, etc. for free!
Participants will have a table and many will have a few minutes to share about their service.
Here’s a sample list of participants that have already confirmed:
6:30pm – Flower Therapy with Penelope Bayona (PenelopeBayona@gmail.com / 8-383-4216)
7:30pm - Reiki with the ABSOLUTELY WONDERFUL Energy Worker Ramon Martinez (EstrellaPistola@yahoo.com) performing a Cheyenne Reiki ritual with Dragons of Light, for purification and protection of the planet, Costa Rica and yourself. If you would like to participate, bring a candle and a paper with your desires written on the paper. He will spread his Mandala Star of Earth on the floor and you can be blessed also. Reiki treatments are also possible. For me, Ramon is an AMAZING energy worker who has shared his gift with me with WONDERFUL results (including assisting me in re-discovering my violet light!!! Vicki).
The Intention of Feng Shui - Iside Sarmiento (http://LivingSpacesCR.com / 8-851-8899 / contact@LivingSpacesCR.com) - Feng Shui Consultation, Geobiology, Land Analysis, Interior Design and Architecture
Chi en aplicaciones de belleza - Frank Martin (FrankMartinHair@hotmail.com / 8-392-9922) - Frank is an WONDERFUL Hair Stylist that’s uses natural hair products in Desamparados
Bio Bella - Monika Bingen-Hara (http://BioBellaOrganics.com / 8-393-2401 / info@BioBellaOrganics.com)
Ayurveda - Leonardo Cordero (http://DisfruteLaVida.com / 8-302-1428 / 2-228-1350 / DisfruteLaVida@gmail.com)
Yoga with Nityananda (pronounced “Neatee”) Das-Paz (http://NityanandaDas.com / 8-371-0344) (Hatha & Bhakti [23 years doing it – private & group classes in Escazu]), Ayurveda (1st Level), Reiki (Energy Flow 1st), Veda, Massage (Yogassage), Henna Tattoos, I-Ching, Egyptian Tarot, Chef (Vegetarian Indian Food, Asian Food "Sushi", Veggie Food), Cloth Design (Indian Fashion Dress), Meditation (Saguna), Jyotish (Vedic Natal Chart, Indian Astrology). As well as Graphics (business cards, brochures, logo design), Web Design (inquire about his Event Specials!!!), Art & Tools, DJ & English Translation.
Also – Diane Evans – Zen Shiatsu Therapist & Thai Massage (8-832-4325 / Diane.Evans2@gmail.com) Together they’re doing a Thai Massage Class on Sat. June 28 from 9am-5pm at Kapoli http://nityanandadas.com/img/ui/massage.png
Also - The Fountains Guesthouse & The House of Self Empowerment Workshop, Holistic Healing & Retreat Space in Escazu (http://FountainsGuesthouse.com / 8-378-6679) with Vicki
Shiatsu - Davide (ilramofiorito88@gmail.com / 2-224-4985)
Meditation del Aura - CasaSana - John Laurent (olympo@yahoo.com / 8-396-5764)
Sal de Himalaya - Il ramo fiorito (IlramoFiorito88@gmail.com / 2-224-4985)
Tai Chi - Ligia Chavaria (TaiChiCR@gmail.com / ligiaisa@gmail.com / 8-829-0237)
Ashtanga Yoga Demonstration de series avanzadas - Mariela Cruz (http://AshtangaYogaCostaRica.com / AshtangaCostaRica@gmail.com / 8-393-1803)
Lumta Yoga Studio - Rocio Hernandez (RHernandezS@bp.fi.cr / 8-369-5295)
Qi kung - Mariano Ardissone (http://AyamaYoga.com / manoyoga@bellsouth.net / 8-375-7354)
Iridology, Tonic Detoxification - Jimena Martinez (jimenamguillen@gmail.com / 8-868-4830)
Organic Food - Lula Catering (http://NinasKitchen.net / 2-281-3060 / mlGarcia@NinasKitchen.net)
Aromatherapy - Aromaflor (sewakCR@gmail.com / 8-833-0253)
Sound Therapy & Mantras - Larisa Coto (LarisaCoto@hotmail.com / 8-817-7873)
Attitude Organic Dead Sea Skin Care Products - Ayama (http://Attitudeline.com / 8-372-0538 / ReinaDelMar7@gmail.com
Hippocampus Bioresonancia Devices (BRT) - Pepe Bayona (http://Hippocampus-brt.com / 8-347-3040 / PepeBayona@gmail.com)
OMMM Yoga Studio - Orit Tarkay (8-332-3534 / Otarkay@gmail.com)
Kapoli Yoga Center - Silvia Monge (http://Kapoli.net / 2-228-1350 / JardinKapoli@gmail.com)
Krama Yoga - Esteban Salazar (http://KramaYoga.com / 8-369-1508 / kio21@hotmail.com, yogi_es@yahoo.com, info@kramayoga.com)
Iridologia - Teresa Martinez (2-288-6112 / IriMex@iname.com)
Noni - Adrian Villalobos (http://CostaRicaNoni.com / Adrian@CostaRicaNoni.com)
Shamanismo - Nora Badilla (http://TejedoraDeUniversos.com / 8-858-6803)
Acupuncture - Martha Vargas Piedra (8-385-4018)
Reiki & Holistic Therapy - Deyanira Perez (http://ManosDeMariposa.blogspot.com / 2-269-6791 / ManosDeMariposa@gmail.com)
A few additional modalities they’re waiting to confirm: Sound Therapy, Mantras and Reflexology.
This festival is going to be an AWESOME way to connect with other like-minded people, learn about various services as well as network (bring your own business cards!!). It's going to be an Energy interchange so please pass on this information to all you think could benefit from it.
MultiPlaza is donating the space and chairs, Radio 911 (http://911LaRadio.com) will donate the sound (microphone, iPod and CD for those that require sound for their presentation) and Wind and Water (http://TiendaDeArmonia.com / 2-201-8393) contributes the tables, refreshments. Living Spaces http://LivingSpacesCR.com
CONTACT INFO: Iside Sarmiento with Living Spaces (8-851-8899 / 2-201-8393 / http://FengShuiCostaRica.com / isar9@yahoo.com)
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RADIO STATIONS in Costa Rica
RADIO STATIONS
RESOURCES: Direct links to various radio stations – LIVE! http://http://radios.co.cr/index.php?link=radiozfm http://canara.org/directorio/index.php http://radiostationworld.com/Locations/Costa_Rica/radio_websites.asp
88.7 - 88 Stereo - Latin Pop? - http://88stereo.com (2-770-6400)
89.1 - 89.1 Pop / Romantic? - http://pop891.com
89.5 - Radio Sendas de Vida - http://radiosendas.com (905-895-0000 / 2-248-1148 / info@radiosendas.com)
89.9 - Spanish Pop - http://radiomusical.com
90.7 - La Nueva - Music (Latin pop?) & Humor in Spanish (for kids?) - http://lanueva907.com
91.1 - 911 Groovy - pop - http://911LaRadio.com (2-253-9696 / cabina@911LaRadio.com) - Caronlina with Elixir Feng Shui stand (at MultiPlaza-Escazu) hosts “Radio Holistica” on Mon. from 8-10am (in Spanish)
91.5 - Radio Activa - Dance music? - http://radioactiva915.com
92.3 - EXA (Periodicos Ticonoticias) - pop - http://exafm.com (2-257-0097 / 222-5560)
92.7 - Radio Columbia Estereo Romantica - Romantic - http://columbiaestereo.com (Zapote - 2-280-0076 / 2-224-1414 / columbiaestereo@columbia.co.cr)
93.5 - Radio Monumental San Jose 670AM http://monumental.co.cr/noticias/inicio/index .php (2-257-6666 / 2-222-8237 / monumental@racsa.co.cr)
93.9 - Sonido Latino - Tropical - http://sonidolatinofm.com (2-236-3161 / 2-241-4063 / 2-236-2854)
94.3 - Radio Reloj - GREAT station for emergency notices (in Spanish) & news - http://gcm.co.cr/wreloj
94.7 - Radio Goizueta - Pop - http://94-7.com (La Uruca 2-290-0947)
95.1 - Radio Z - Pop http://monumental.co.cr / http://canara.org/directorio/show_select.php?idn=50 (San Jose - 2-296-6093 / 2-296-6094 / ecamacho@monumental.co.cr) - Lights Out CR from 7-11pm, US show with Dave Koz Sat. at 2pm (ENGLISH)
95.5 - Relaxing/New Age/Jazz - http://955jazz.com (2-225-3955 / 955jazz@racsa.co.cr)
95.9 - Radio Eco - News - http://radioeco.com (Zapote - 2-257-4111)
96.3 - Radio Centro - http://Canara.org (Tibas / 2-240-7591 / rcentro@racsa.co.cr)
96.7 - University Radio/Radui Universidad - Ciudad Universitaria Rodrigo Facio - College Radio (more progressive) - http://radiouniversidad.ucr.ac.cr (Zapote - 2-207-4727)
97.1 - Faro del Caribe - religious? - 1080AM - http://farodelcaribe.org (Zapote - 2-286-1755)
97.5 - Radio Musical - Romantic music in Spanish? - http://radiomusical.com (Zapote - 2-233-9975)
97.9 - 979 Conexion - Gringo Pop/Dance Music/Hip Hop - http://nuevesietenueve.com
98.3 - Radio Estereo Vision (905-298-3983 / estereovision@racsa.co.cr)
98.5 - Radio Informativo (Zapote - 2-440-2627 / 2-441-9666)
98.7 - Radio Columbia - News/Talk in Spanish, sports, music - 760AM - http://columbia.co.cr (Zapote - 2-224-0707)
99.1 - Radio Sabrosa - Tropical? - http://turadio.net (Los Yoses - 2-224-2125)
99.5 - RADIO DOS/2 - The classics from the 70s & 80s - http://radiodos.com (6-11am - dj & news in ENGLISH) (Zapote 2-224-7272) – connect for live coverage (PC only)
99.9 - Radio Azul - Sounds like soft romantic music? - http://azul999.com (San Jose - 2-256-2007)
100.7 - Radio 100.7 - Romantic? / Latin Music for the 25-55 y.o. (Zapote - 2-225-0067 / 2-281-1007 / 100.7@columbia.co.cr)
101.9 - Radio U - University of CR station – http://RadioU.ucr.ac.cr - (San Pedro - 2-207-5315) - College/Educational/Music (more unique/alternative) - “Meridiano” - New Age, World Music (it says “Meet the Beatles??”) – Mon.- Fri. 7pm. Arts & Cultural - Wed. Fri. 8pm. Jazz, Blues, Soul - Sun. 6-8pm. Punk, Rock & hardcore Spanish Mon., Tues. & Fri. 5-6pm. Progressive – Thurs. 8-9:30pm. Heavy Metal Sat. 5-6pm. HOT African beat – Sat. 10am. Some sort of sex talk (I think) Wed. 9am. Student Radio - Mon.-Fri. 6-8am. I believe they have a more conscious/self empowerment inclined show on Fri. from noon-2pm with host Luz (“Medeiano?”)
102.3 - Super Radio - Rock / Oldies (gringo) - http://cocciocarranza.org/radio (2-240-3940 / 2-236-2854) - Sat. 1-3pm - Classic Rock like CCR, Pink Floyd, Janis Joplin, etc.
102.7 - RADIO UNO/1 - Pop, oldies (gringo favs) - http://turadio.net/emisoras/radio1 (Los Yoses - 2-253-2008 / radio1@radiouno.net)
103.1 - Pop Latin Favs - http://cientotres.com (905-010-3103)
103.5 - Best FM - Classic music of the 80s & 90s (gringo) (2-296-6093 / 2-296-6094)
103.9 - Radio Sinai - Catholic station - 1400AM - http://canara.org/directorio/show_select.php?idn=27 (2-771-4367 / 2-771-0598 / radiosinai@mixmail.com)
104.3 - Los 40 / Radio Sensacion - Pop (gringo) - http://los40.co.cr (San Jose - 2-233-3209)
104.7 - Radio Bomba - Pop - (8-854-1000 / 2-248-0818)
105.1 - Omega Estereo - Humor/Cubmia/Grupero/Balero - http://turadio.net/emisoras/omega (omega@radioomega.net)
105.5 - Website makes me think it’s romantic-y - http://turadio.net/emisoras/1055fm (azucarero@omegagrupo.com)
106.3 - VOX - Pop, Rock, Raggae - http://turadio.net/emisoras/vox (vox@radiovoxpop1063.net)
106.7 - RADIO PREMIUM - Lite Jazz, Barry White, Sheryl Crow, Sara Brightman, Julio Iglesias - http://premiumradio1067.com/Portada.html
(if you have some changes to add, please email us at CostaRicaResourceGuide@gmail.com)
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107.1 - Radio Emperador (Periodicos Ticonoticias) - Music in Spanish of the 80s & 90s - La Ley De La Musica (San Jose - 2-296-6094 / 2-296-6093 / 2-257-3431 / 2-257-0097 / 2-222-5560)
107.5 - REAL ROCK 107.5 - Pop / Rock - ENGLISH (gringo) - http://radio1075.com/real.htm (Zapote - 2-289-92-222 / 2-289-9184) - BBC World News – 6am, 8am & 5pm. Classic Rock Mon.-Fri. - 5am-9am. Top 10 Wed. - 5-6pm. TicoTimes.net Headlines – noon.
Wednesday, June 4, 2008
EXCELLENT MOVERS for moves WITHIN Costa Rica
EXCELLENT MOVERS for moves WITHIN Costa Rica!!!
I used & have recommended to LEAST 20+ people who all have shared REALLY positive experiences as well:
Mudanzas y Transportes Villa Lobos
Manuel Villalobos Bolanos (8-334-1373 / MVillalobos_90@hotmail.com) (son - speaks English!!)
(Office - 8-383-5861 / 8-376-6707 / 2-253-2717 ph/fax / RVillaLobos01@racsa.co.cr)
They moved me 5/27/06 (WOW!! It's been 2 years now!!!) from Pozos de Santa Ana to Escazu & they were EXCELLENT!!!
First off, AMAZINGLY, they showed up 30 minutes EARLY (& of course I was not ready, even my other helpers were not there yet. To me it's SMART to be their first one of the day and also NOT be on the last or first day of the month whenever possible).
They said they would have 4 guys & SIX showed up (all hard workers - Sebastian [he was the hardest worker!!], Rolando Drucer [he speaks English], Freddie, Harley, Eddie & Luis Fernandes)!
They did an EXCELLENT fast job, NOTHING broken, NOTHING missing. I tipped each guy $10 to $20 depending on how hard they worked, plus bought LOTS of pizzas & sodas for them so I know they were VERY happy.
They had a large 24 foot truck fully equipped with dollys, a ramp, blankets, etc. to protect my stuff & it initially was 85,000 colons (we ended up having to do a second load as I had since getting the initial quote, bought a bunch of things & they did not realize I had all the big plants but they only charged me about $20 to $25 more).
HINT: For the best results (for them being on time & the workers having the most energy) be the first move of the day. That helps, as if not, sometimes the previous jobs take longer which is NOT the fault of the movers (that is often the responsibility of the movee!!!)
Oh, & they are LEGAL & insured (novel concept I am hearing)
I dealt with Manuel who speaks GOOD English! Tell him Vicki in Escazu (formerly in Villa Verde in Pozos) referred ya!!
I hope you have at least (or EVEN BETTER) as great of an experience with them as I did!!!
I used & have recommended to LEAST 20+ people who all have shared REALLY positive experiences as well:
Mudanzas y Transportes Villa Lobos
Manuel Villalobos Bolanos (8-334-1373 / MVillalobos_90@hotmail.com) (son - speaks English!!)
(Office - 8-383-5861 / 8-376-6707 / 2-253-2717 ph/fax / RVillaLobos01@racsa.co.cr)
They moved me 5/27/06 (WOW!! It's been 2 years now!!!) from Pozos de Santa Ana to Escazu & they were EXCELLENT!!!
First off, AMAZINGLY, they showed up 30 minutes EARLY (& of course I was not ready, even my other helpers were not there yet. To me it's SMART to be their first one of the day and also NOT be on the last or first day of the month whenever possible).
They said they would have 4 guys & SIX showed up (all hard workers - Sebastian [he was the hardest worker!!], Rolando Drucer [he speaks English], Freddie, Harley, Eddie & Luis Fernandes)!
They did an EXCELLENT fast job, NOTHING broken, NOTHING missing. I tipped each guy $10 to $20 depending on how hard they worked, plus bought LOTS of pizzas & sodas for them so I know they were VERY happy.
They had a large 24 foot truck fully equipped with dollys, a ramp, blankets, etc. to protect my stuff & it initially was 85,000 colons (we ended up having to do a second load as I had since getting the initial quote, bought a bunch of things & they did not realize I had all the big plants but they only charged me about $20 to $25 more).
HINT: For the best results (for them being on time & the workers having the most energy) be the first move of the day. That helps, as if not, sometimes the previous jobs take longer which is NOT the fault of the movers (that is often the responsibility of the movee!!!)
Oh, & they are LEGAL & insured (novel concept I am hearing)
I dealt with Manuel who speaks GOOD English! Tell him Vicki in Escazu (formerly in Villa Verde in Pozos) referred ya!!
I hope you have at least (or EVEN BETTER) as great of an experience with them as I did!!!
Tuesday, May 27, 2008
Costa Rica Parents First Playgroup, Forum and Other Support
WHAT: We are hosting our first Play Group for kids ages 0-6yrs. We will be holding many different family activities in the future, and even some just for the parents!
WHEN: Wed. May 28th - 2-5pm
WHERE: Santa Ana
At http://CostaRicaParents.com there is a Forum where you can meet new friends, share information about Costa Rica, post upcoming family friendly events and more! There is also a website directory, and
Amazon store for your shopping needs. It is our goal to develop Costa Rica Parents into the #1 parenting resource.
Please visit the website for more information about the Playgroup and CostaRica Parents.
http://CostaRicaParents.com / CostaRicaParents@yahoo.com
WHEN: Wed. May 28th - 2-5pm
WHERE: Santa Ana
At http://CostaRicaParents.com there is a Forum where you can meet new friends, share information about Costa Rica, post upcoming family friendly events and more! There is also a website directory, and
Amazon store for your shopping needs. It is our goal to develop Costa Rica Parents into the #1 parenting resource.
Please visit the website for more information about the Playgroup and CostaRica Parents.
http://CostaRicaParents.com / CostaRicaParents@yahoo.com
Sunday, May 25, 2008
An Amusing way to learn Spanish - "Gay Spanish for Love + Hookups" Phrasebook
Have a thing for Spanish lovers/a Latin partner? Visiting a Spanish speaking country?
You HAVE to get a copy of:
"Gay Spanish for Love + Hookups"
http://www.gaybabel.net/zencart/index.php?main_page=product_info&products_id=2
They also have a combo book in Spanish, French, Italian, Portuguese, German, Czech, and English. Plus one in Italian. One in German and one in French.
Soon they're coming out with one for hetrosexuals (though I found their gay book QUITE helpful and amusing as did my "friends"!!).
Check out their amusing website http://www.GayBabel.net
(NOTE: This is a VERY SEXUALLY EXPLICIT LANGUAGE site so if you have an issue with it, simply don't go there [or get over it and learn some new things!!])
You HAVE to get a copy of:
"Gay Spanish for Love + Hookups"
http://www.gaybabel.net/zencart/index.php?main_page=product_info&products_id=2
They also have a combo book in Spanish, French, Italian, Portuguese, German, Czech, and English. Plus one in Italian. One in German and one in French.
Soon they're coming out with one for hetrosexuals (though I found their gay book QUITE helpful and amusing as did my "friends"!!).
Check out their amusing website http://www.GayBabel.net
(NOTE: This is a VERY SEXUALLY EXPLICIT LANGUAGE site so if you have an issue with it, simply don't go there [or get over it and learn some new things!!])
Sunday, May 4, 2008
Where to Find an International SIM Card to use with your U.S. International Cell Phone while in Costa Rica
Visiting / Tourists Costa Rica and want/need to stay connected with your family, friends and associates?
SOME cell companies will work in Costa Rica but you need to check first, BUT, IF it will work, you often will pay about $2 in Roaming Fees and good luck getting consistent reception (IF at all).
Some offer an International Plan (note, MANY plans you can just randomly change so make sure to CANCEL IT within the typical 30 days they give you), though they're not usually so great (though they're better than the $2 in Roaming Fees).
The BEST thing to do - purchase an International SIM Card to use with your U.S. Cell Phone while in Costa Rica.
First off, you MUST have an UNlocked GSM Quad Band Cell Phone (or you can purchase one here starting at under $100).
They give you a U.S. phone number (you designate what area code you desire that number to be at) so your people are calling you at a U.S. phone number (most people that have cell phones in the U.S. get free calls within the U.S. as do those with an Unlimited Calling Plan so their calls to you will be free for them).
You get a chip (the SIM Card) that you slip into your phone.
It is a Pre-Paid plan. For you to RECEIVE calls in Costa Rica FROM the U.S. YOU are charged (they deduct) 19¢/minute.
When you MAKE calls to the U.S. you are charged (they deduct) 29¢.
This works within Costa Rica BUT you will NOT have a local/Costa Rica phone number for people IN Costa Rica to call you at.
If you desire to call someone within Costa Rica, you will have to pay the International Costa Rica rate of 39¢/minute.
NOTE: These SIM Cards also work in many countries around the world.
They have a GREAT local rep who usually can come to you in the Central Valley - Christine Shea (8-877-6767 / Christine@CelTrek. com) or she can help you order it before you come. If you do not have that type of phone, she also has these special phones for sale here for MUCH cheaper than retail & what you'd pay in the States (without a 2-year plan).
SOME cell companies will work in Costa Rica but you need to check first, BUT, IF it will work, you often will pay about $2 in Roaming Fees and good luck getting consistent reception (IF at all).
Some offer an International Plan (note, MANY plans you can just randomly change so make sure to CANCEL IT within the typical 30 days they give you), though they're not usually so great (though they're better than the $2 in Roaming Fees).
The BEST thing to do - purchase an International SIM Card to use with your U.S. Cell Phone while in Costa Rica.
First off, you MUST have an UNlocked GSM Quad Band Cell Phone (or you can purchase one here starting at under $100).
They give you a U.S. phone number (you designate what area code you desire that number to be at) so your people are calling you at a U.S. phone number (most people that have cell phones in the U.S. get free calls within the U.S. as do those with an Unlimited Calling Plan so their calls to you will be free for them).
You get a chip (the SIM Card) that you slip into your phone.
It is a Pre-Paid plan. For you to RECEIVE calls in Costa Rica FROM the U.S. YOU are charged (they deduct) 19¢/minute.
When you MAKE calls to the U.S. you are charged (they deduct) 29¢.
This works within Costa Rica BUT you will NOT have a local/Costa Rica phone number for people IN Costa Rica to call you at.
If you desire to call someone within Costa Rica, you will have to pay the International Costa Rica rate of 39¢/minute.
NOTE: These SIM Cards also work in many countries around the world.
They have a GREAT local rep who usually can come to you in the Central Valley - Christine Shea (8-877-6767 / Christine@CelTrek. com) or she can help you order it before you come. If you do not have that type of phone, she also has these special phones for sale here for MUCH cheaper than retail & what you'd pay in the States (without a 2-year plan).
Where to find the OLD FASHIONED TDMA CELL PHONES in Costa Rica
Where to find the OLD FASHIONED/TDMA CELL PHONES:
I spent DAYS trying to find an old fashioned TDMA cell phones (for rent or sale) which at this point, I find BY FAR WAYYYY better than the GSM phones (CR still does not have enough GSM towers to support all the GSM phones out there so I'd say 60% of the time I call someone with a GSM phone I have to redial it a couple/few times before it connects and/or I call someone and they're "out of range") - only to find that THE place to get them were from my neighbors.
Tutto's Celular (2-289-4036 / 8-391-0604)
A Nokias (from what I hear, they are the sturdiest/best AND cheapest!!) withOUT vibration starts at 25,000-c.
Jorge and his son speak a fair amount of English and are REALLY HELPFUL (he can fix most cells himself also!!).
LOCATION: They are located ON Calle Vieja in Escazu (San Rafael) - 1 1/2 blocks West of the ICE office and 1 block East of Calle Country Club (and on my corner if you're in the area & have any donations for charities you'd like to drop off [my home is a Donation Drop-off Point for MANY charities throughout CR]. E- me at TheFountainsGuesthouseEscazu@ gmail. com [all run together]) on the Santa Ana/Calle Veija bus line that leaves SJ from the CocaCola Building (215-c) and depending on traffic, an EASY ride (car or taxi) from San Jose). Stop by if you are in the area (call me at 8-378-6679)
Tell them Vicki sent you!
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/CostaRicaFinds
I spent DAYS trying to find an old fashioned TDMA cell phones (for rent or sale) which at this point, I find BY FAR WAYYYY better than the GSM phones (CR still does not have enough GSM towers to support all the GSM phones out there so I'd say 60% of the time I call someone with a GSM phone I have to redial it a couple/few times before it connects and/or I call someone and they're "out of range") - only to find that THE place to get them were from my neighbors.
Tutto's Celular (2-289-4036 / 8-391-0604)
A Nokias (from what I hear, they are the sturdiest/best AND cheapest!!) withOUT vibration starts at 25,000-c.
Jorge and his son speak a fair amount of English and are REALLY HELPFUL (he can fix most cells himself also!!).
LOCATION: They are located ON Calle Vieja in Escazu (San Rafael) - 1 1/2 blocks West of the ICE office and 1 block East of Calle Country Club (and on my corner if you're in the area & have any donations for charities you'd like to drop off [my home is a Donation Drop-off Point for MANY charities throughout CR]. E- me at TheFountainsGuesthouseEscazu@ gmail. com [all run together]) on the Santa Ana/Calle Veija bus line that leaves SJ from the CocaCola Building (215-c) and depending on traffic, an EASY ride (car or taxi) from San Jose). Stop by if you are in the area (call me at 8-378-6679)
Tell them Vicki sent you!
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/CostaRicaFinds
Wednesday, April 23, 2008
MOVIE / DVD RENTAL SERVICES that DELIVER in Costa Rica
MOVIE / DVD RENTAL & DELIVERY SERVICES
The 2 services below deliver in many areas within the Central Valley (San Jose, Escazu and more!!):
CIN EXPRESS
(http://CinExpress.cc / 2-290-7927)
FREE DELIVERY and Pick Up. You have them for 7 days. NO Late Fees.
Check for their Promotions: SAMPLE:
SPECIALS:
Rent 3 get 2 free = 5 movies for 3900 colones
Rent 5 get 3 free = 8 movies for 6500 colones
HOURS: 8am-8pm. San Jose
Create an account, order online and then they call you to confirm your order (thanx Kazzrie!)
CR MOVIE
(http://CRMovie.com / 2-234-9504 / 2-288-4837 / info@crmovie.com) (Carlos speaks English)
They deliver it within 45-60 min. if you live within their "area." I have heard they are not up on the latest flicks as much as some.
2 Types of Service:
Express – 1,200-c per video for newer release or 1,000-c for older ones
OR the
VIP Service (an AWESOME value!!) - $25/month for up to 45 dvd’s a month BUT you can only get 3 at a time (within a 24 hour period) & it doesn’t matter when you bring this back (I’m basing the “awesome value” statement on
Register - http://CRMovie.com/crmovie/renta/registrodatospersonales.aspx
Service Area: http://CRMovie.com/crmovie/renta/areasdeservicio.aspx
HOURS: Tues.-Sun. 10am-9pm
VIDEO LINEA DE ESTRELLAS
(http://Rentale.com)
Escazu (San Rafael) - Paco Plaza (2-289-4790 / 2-289-4435) - Mauricio speaks English (all day - Mon., Wed, & Thurs, & Sat. & Sun. 6:30-10:30pm. Tell him Vicki sent ya!)
Escazu (San Rafael) - Centro Comercial Trejos Montealegre (next to KFC) (2-289-4435 / Escazu@rentale.com) - (Be careful at this location as no one speaks English & though I had someone help me translate – they charged me 5,000-colones for membership – even though I’d had a membership for over a year at the Paco location. They also charged me a few times late fees on all 4 of the dvds I’d checked out even though I already returned 2 of them on time)
Curridabat - 100 mts. East of Pinares, de la Bomba La Galera (2-271-4102 / Curridabat@rentale.com)
Belen (San Antonio de) - La Ribera – Centro Comerical La Ribera (2-289-4435 / belen@rentale.com)
Santa Ana - Centro Comercial Santa Ana (2-289-4435 / staana@rentale.com)
Parque de la Paz - 100 mts. South of the Rotonda – Centro Comercial La Paz – Local 5 (2-286-4423 / lapaz@rentale.com)
Aserri - Costado Noresete of the catholic church (2-230-2445 / aserri@rentale.com)
Desamparados - Centro Comercial San Miguel, locals 4-5 – catholic church (2-270-4329 / desamparados@rentale.com)
HOURS: DAILY - 10:30am-10:30pm .
PRICE – Rent for: 1 day -1,000 –c, 7 days -1,200–c, 10 days-1,500–c (looks like they've had to adjust/lower their prices!!!). A day means if you rent it any time on a Mon. – you MUST have it in BEFORE they open on Wed.
DELIVERY – 600-c. Rent 4 & get FREE Delivery (only – not return).
LATE FEES: 500-c/day (no matter what anyone tells you – it’s ONLY on the dvd’s that are late – NOT on your total ones including those that were returned on time).
TO JOIN/MEMBERSHIP: ID & 5,000 colones (no matter what anyone tells you - if you join at one it IS good at ALL of them!).
Tuesday, April 8, 2008
GAMBLING GAMING CASINOS in Costa Rica
NEW LAW:
NEW HOURS FOR ALL CASINO'S IN COSTA RICA: 6pm-6am
I've also heard some talk about them not being allowed to give free drinks but I haven't had that confirmed lately!!!
Visiting Costa Rica or live here & gotta blow off some steam/blow that wade? Here’s the start of a list of some of the CASINOS in the San Jose - Central Valley (with more outside of the Valley coming soon!).
Also, here are a few GOOD websites that give more details about gambling in Costa Rica:
http://ildado.com/land_casinos_costa_rica.html
http://1costaricalink.com/goldendoor/door-costarica-172.htm#gambling
http://govisitcostarica.com/category/entertainment/casinos.asp
http://worldcasinodirectory.com/costa-rica#CASINOLIST
NOTE: As in the States, casinos give free drinks as long as you are play. Minimum bid in most casinos for Blackjack are $5 on average. Most casinos stay open till around 3am.
NEAR THE AIRPORT - ALAJUELA:
FIESTA CASINO
(2-431-1455 / http://ThunderBirdResorts.com/info/en/destinations.costarica.aspx)
I CONSISTENTLY hear this is the BEST Casino around & it’s BY FAR the BIGGEST in Central America (excluding Panama City)!!! It’s nice, has high ceilings, GOOD Air flow, LIVE MUSIC & a dance floor (9pm-2am Mon, Tues., Wed., Fri., & Sat.) in their Pirates Bar & Grill! GAMES: 400 Slot Machines, 21 Gaming Tables with limits from $1-$2,000 including Rummy / Blackjack / 21, Craps, Pai Gow Poker, Caribbean Stud / Tute, 3-Card Stud. VIP Room with 5 tables. They’re the only casino in Alajuela that has Player Tracking.
LOCATION: Alajuela by the airport in the same compound as the Hampton Inn, Denny’s (fyi - prices are WAYYYY MORE than in the States!!!) & the Garden Court Hotel.
Ramada Hotel Herradura Fiesta Casino
(2-293-5437 / http://Thunderbirdresorts.com/info/en/destinations.costarica.aspx)
GAMES: 60 Slots, 6 Texas Hold ‘em Tables, Rummy / Blackjack / 21, Craps, Pai Gow Poker, Poker (3 tournaments a week, $20 buy in, about 40-50 players. You have to get there at 7:30pm to sign up and it usually starts around 8:30pm. Fridays & 2 other nights - THANX Preston!), Caribbean Stud / Tute.
LOCATION: 6 km from the airport towards San Jose. Belen (San Antonio) off the Autopista General Canas
Doubletree (formerly the Melia) Cariari’s Casino and Hotel
(2-239-0406)
GAMES: 25 Slots, Rummy / Blackjack, Caribbean Poker, Pai Gow Poker, 3-Card Stud, Roulette / Canasta with a wheel, Caribbean Stud Poker, Craps, Let it Ride, Mini-Baccarat.
LOCATION: Belen (San Antonio) off the Autopista General Canas
Dominio / Concorde Casino at the Best Western Hotel Irazu & Balmoral
(2-231-0664 / 2-232-7910)
GAMES: 83 Slots, Canasta/Roulette, Caribbean Stud Poker, Pai Gow Poker, Rommy Blackjack (6 tables), Tute. Gaming chips in US$ and Colones.
LOCATION: La Uruca - 3km Autopista Calle General Canas.
Palacio Casino in Hotel/Spa Barcelo
(2-220-1310 / 2-220-2034 / http://Barcelo.com)
GAMES: Slot Machines (18 total); Table Games (15 total), Canasta (Roulette), Craps, Dice, Rommy Blackjack, Tute.
LOCATION: La Uruca off the Autopista General Canas, El Robledal
Martino’s Casino & Resort Spa
(2-433 8382 / http://HotelMartino.com)
LOCATION: Alajuela - La Garita - in front of ZooAve.
La Central Hotel & Casino
(2-460-0301)
LOCATION: Alajuela - Ciudad Quesada - on Calle San Carlo
SAN JOSE:
COLONIAL Casino, Restaurant & Hotel
(2-258-2807 / http://CasinoClubColonial.com) I CONSISTENTLY here REALLY GOOD THINGS about this Casino!!! GAMES: 100 Slot Machines (start at buy 2,000-c - 100-c/25 cents), Rummy / Blackjack / 21 ($5 min.), Roulette, Texas Hold 'em, Craps (1,000-c or $5 in dollars min.), Pai Gow Poker (2,000-c min.-$300), Caribbean Stud / Tute (1,000-min., 3-Card Stud (1,000-c-min.), Sports Betting (upstairs). Odds were x2 on 4, 5, 9,and 10, and I think x3 on the 6, 8). FREE Parking. LOCATION: Avenida 1 between Calle 9 and 11 - next to the Del Rey in front of Juan Bombach Musical Instrament store. They have a non-smoking area in their Hotel Casino.
Fiesta Casino in their NEW Downtown location in the Hotel Presidente
(2-221-3832 / http://Thunderbirdresorts.com/info/en/destinations.costarica.aspx)
A REALLY GOOD Casino!!! GAMES: 300 Slots, Rummy / Blackjack / 21, Craps, Pai Gow Poker, Caribbean Stud / Tute. They’re the only casino in San Jose that has Player Tracking & the only one in Costa Rica that has it on the machines.
LOCATION: San Jose-Downtown - Avenida Central between Calle 7 and 9
Horseshoe Casino
(2-233-4383 / http://HSCasino.com)
Low minimums, not real noisy/crazy, not crowded. GAMES: Slot Machines (50, Slot Club Comp), Rummy (500-c min.), Blackjack ($5 min.), Craps ($5 min.), Texas Hold’em Poker, Tute, 21, Pai Gow Poker, Pai Gow Tiles, Race & Sports Book, Sports Tournaments. No hookers persay but I’ve heard of a few guys getting “hit up” by some of the “hostesses”. Much of their staff speaks English. BUFFET. Valet Parking, LIVE ENTERTAINMENT. Qualified players may get free air and hotel. Highest Limits in Latin America.
LOCATION: San Jose-Downtown - Avenida Uno between Calle 7 and 9 (caddy corner to the Del Rey)
Aurola Holiday Inn’s Casino
(2-222-2424 / 2-233-9490 / http://1costaricalink.com/eng/hotels/hots/hots-aurola-4.htm)
The NICEST as it’s on the top floor - 17 floors above the city with spectacular views!!
GAMES: Slots, Game Tables.
LOCATION: San Jose - Avenido Quinto and Calle Quinto
Morozan Tropical Casino & Hotel
(2-219-2470 / 2-222-4622 / http:www.1costaricalink.com/eng/hotels/hots/crmorazan/home.htm)
GAMES: 25 Slots, Gaming Tables.
LOCATION: Calle 7 between Avenida 1 & 3 - in front of Parque Morazan. (owned Casinos Europa?)
Gran Hotel’s Casino
(2-221-4000 / 2-222-6126)
GAMES: Slots & 6 Gaming Tables.
LOCATION: San Jose - Calle 3 between Avenida Central & 2
Grand Hotel’s Casino
(2-223-2573)
Del Rey’s Casino
(2-257-7800)
The most famous casino in the because it’s THE "working girls" spot. GAMES: Video Poker Machines mixed within the Slot Machines, Craps. Often the minimum bets are MUCH higher (OFTEN $25 min.). Most guys that go to here are looking for the “action” (fyi - I hear the girls here are around $80/hour [PLUS you HAVE to pay for a room there or somewhere else] and VERY “Give me your money - what do you want!!” = cold! VERY smokey.
LOCATION: San Jose-Downtown - Calle 9 & Avenida 1
Cheetahs Casino
(2-233-4383)
GAMES:
LOCATION: Avenida Primero between Calle 7 and 9 San Jose.
Krystal Casino in the Sheraton Herradura Hotel
(2-239-0033)
GAMES: 20 Slots, 4 Game Tables. Daily. LOCATION: San Jose
Paradisio Casino in the Clarion Hotel
(http://casino-paradiso.com)
This is a nicer, quieter, classier place with underground parking (thanx Steve). GAMES: Blackjack (1 table, $5 min.), Craps (though I hear it’s not often open but request it of the Pit Boss and I hear they will open! (500-c or $5 in dollars min.
LOCATION: San Jose - Bario Amon
Confort Casino (232-8122)
LOCATION: San Jose - Sabana Norte
Hotel M Casino
(http://HotelMCostaRica.com / 2-253-8345)
They are a Priavte Club/Card Room featuring Texas Hold’em Poker in their courtyard. Daily games of no limit along with their Sunday tournaments. This is actually a Texas Hold’M Club that will benefit players. LOCATION: San Jose - Bario Dent
Europa Casino & Restaurant in the Raddisson Hotel
(2-256-4949 / http://radisson.com/sanjosecr)
GAMES: 30 Slots, 3 Card Poker, Baccarat, Canasta/Roulette, Caribbean Stud Poker, Craps, Pai Gow Poker, Rommy Blackjack, Tute.
LOCATION: San Jose - Barrio Tournon, Goicoechea - Calle Central between Avenida 3-15
Jungle Casino/Casino Central
(2-221-4994)
LOCATION: San Jose - San Jose - Avenida Central between Calle 7 and 9.
Royal Dutch Casino & Hotel
(2-222-1414 / http://1costaricalink.com/eng/hotels/hots/hots-royaldu-3.htm)
GAMES: 50 Slots, 6 Gaming Tables.
LOCATION: San Jose - Calle Central and Calle 4 & Avenida 2 (owned Casinos Europa)
Corobici Casino in the Crowne Plaza Hotel
Club Triangulo Casino
Fiesta Casino Cacique
(2-261-9447 / http://ThunderbirdResorts.com/info/en/destinations.costarica.aspx)
GAMES: 100 Slots (expanding soon to 200), Rummy / Blackjack / 21, Craps, Pai Gow Poker, Caribbean Stud / Tute.
LOCATION: Heredia - Centro - southside of the park
Condesa Casino
(2-267-6000/2-267-6290)
LOCATION: Heredia (San Rafael)
ESCAZU
White House Jazz West Wing Casino
(2-288-6365 / 2-228-6992 / http://CasinoJazz.com / http://WhiteHouseCostaRica.com)
VERY Upscale/High-end, GORGEOUS VIEWS, lots of more upscale "girls," Cigar Bar, Jazz Club, GOOD Restaurant with gringo quality meats/STEAKS (USDA Angus). GAMES: Vegas style gambling with they claim the best odds and highest limits in the Central Valley. Blackjack, Craps, Tute, Roulette Wheel, POKER ROOM and Slot Machines. Fri. is LADIES NIGHT with Ladies Texas Hold'em Tournament with only a $25 buy in.
LOCATION: Escazu - San Antonio - DIRECTIONS: WAYYYY up the hill - 600 mts. South of the cemetery. HOURS: 6pm-2am.
Camino Real in the Intercontinental Hotel
(289-7000)
LOCATION: off the Pista - across from the MultiPlaza West Mall - Escazu
OUTSIDE THE CENTRAL VALLEY:
Kamuk Casino at the Best Western
(2-777-0811 / http://kamuk.co.cr/casino)
GAMES: Tute, Roulette, Romy, Pay Gow Poker, Mini Bacara and of course, slot machines.
LOCATION: Manuel Antonio
Parador Casino
(2-777-1414)
LOCATION: Manuel Antonio
Divisamar Casino
(2-777-0371)
LOCATION: Manuel Antonio
Pacifico
(2-777-0905)
LOCATION: Manuel Antonio
Cocal Casino & Hotel (2-643-3067)
LOCATION: Playa Jaco
Flamingo Casino at the Flamino Beach Resort
(2-654-4011 / 2-654-4350)
LOCATION: Flamingo Beach
Best Western Coco Verde’s Casino
(2-670-049)
LOCATION: Playas del Coco
Playas del Coco’s Casino
(2-670-0110)
LOCATION: Playas del Coco
Los Suenos Mariott Casino & Hotel
(2-298-0000)
LOCATION: Playa Herradura
Maribu Caribe
(2-798-3750)
LOCATION: Limon
Association overseeing Casinos: Asociacion de Casinos
NEW HOURS FOR ALL CASINO'S IN COSTA RICA: 6pm-6am
I've also heard some talk about them not being allowed to give free drinks but I haven't had that confirmed lately!!!
Visiting Costa Rica or live here & gotta blow off some steam/blow that wade? Here’s the start of a list of some of the CASINOS in the San Jose - Central Valley (with more outside of the Valley coming soon!).
Also, here are a few GOOD websites that give more details about gambling in Costa Rica:
http://ildado.com/land_casinos_costa_rica.html
http://1costaricalink.com/goldendoor/door-costarica-172.htm#gambling
http://govisitcostarica.com/category/entertainment/casinos.asp
http://worldcasinodirectory.com/costa-rica#CASINOLIST
NOTE: As in the States, casinos give free drinks as long as you are play. Minimum bid in most casinos for Blackjack are $5 on average. Most casinos stay open till around 3am.
NEAR THE AIRPORT - ALAJUELA:
FIESTA CASINO
(2-431-1455 / http://ThunderBirdResorts.com/info/en/destinations.costarica.aspx)
I CONSISTENTLY hear this is the BEST Casino around & it’s BY FAR the BIGGEST in Central America (excluding Panama City)!!! It’s nice, has high ceilings, GOOD Air flow, LIVE MUSIC & a dance floor (9pm-2am Mon, Tues., Wed., Fri., & Sat.) in their Pirates Bar & Grill! GAMES: 400 Slot Machines, 21 Gaming Tables with limits from $1-$2,000 including Rummy / Blackjack / 21, Craps, Pai Gow Poker, Caribbean Stud / Tute, 3-Card Stud. VIP Room with 5 tables. They’re the only casino in Alajuela that has Player Tracking.
LOCATION: Alajuela by the airport in the same compound as the Hampton Inn, Denny’s (fyi - prices are WAYYYY MORE than in the States!!!) & the Garden Court Hotel.
Ramada Hotel Herradura Fiesta Casino
(2-293-5437 / http://Thunderbirdresorts.com/info/en/destinations.costarica.aspx)
GAMES: 60 Slots, 6 Texas Hold ‘em Tables, Rummy / Blackjack / 21, Craps, Pai Gow Poker, Poker (3 tournaments a week, $20 buy in, about 40-50 players. You have to get there at 7:30pm to sign up and it usually starts around 8:30pm. Fridays & 2 other nights - THANX Preston!), Caribbean Stud / Tute.
LOCATION: 6 km from the airport towards San Jose. Belen (San Antonio) off the Autopista General Canas
Doubletree (formerly the Melia) Cariari’s Casino and Hotel
(2-239-0406)
GAMES: 25 Slots, Rummy / Blackjack, Caribbean Poker, Pai Gow Poker, 3-Card Stud, Roulette / Canasta with a wheel, Caribbean Stud Poker, Craps, Let it Ride, Mini-Baccarat.
LOCATION: Belen (San Antonio) off the Autopista General Canas
Dominio / Concorde Casino at the Best Western Hotel Irazu & Balmoral
(2-231-0664 / 2-232-7910)
GAMES: 83 Slots, Canasta/Roulette, Caribbean Stud Poker, Pai Gow Poker, Rommy Blackjack (6 tables), Tute. Gaming chips in US$ and Colones.
LOCATION: La Uruca - 3km Autopista Calle General Canas.
Palacio Casino in Hotel/Spa Barcelo
(2-220-1310 / 2-220-2034 / http://Barcelo.com)
GAMES: Slot Machines (18 total); Table Games (15 total), Canasta (Roulette), Craps, Dice, Rommy Blackjack, Tute.
LOCATION: La Uruca off the Autopista General Canas, El Robledal
Martino’s Casino & Resort Spa
(2-433 8382 / http://HotelMartino.com)
LOCATION: Alajuela - La Garita - in front of ZooAve.
La Central Hotel & Casino
(2-460-0301)
LOCATION: Alajuela - Ciudad Quesada - on Calle San Carlo
SAN JOSE:
COLONIAL Casino, Restaurant & Hotel
(2-258-2807 / http://CasinoClubColonial.com) I CONSISTENTLY here REALLY GOOD THINGS about this Casino!!! GAMES: 100 Slot Machines (start at buy 2,000-c - 100-c/25 cents), Rummy / Blackjack / 21 ($5 min.), Roulette, Texas Hold 'em, Craps (1,000-c or $5 in dollars min.), Pai Gow Poker (2,000-c min.-$300), Caribbean Stud / Tute (1,000-min., 3-Card Stud (1,000-c-min.), Sports Betting (upstairs). Odds were x2 on 4, 5, 9,and 10, and I think x3 on the 6, 8). FREE Parking. LOCATION: Avenida 1 between Calle 9 and 11 - next to the Del Rey in front of Juan Bombach Musical Instrament store. They have a non-smoking area in their Hotel Casino.
Fiesta Casino in their NEW Downtown location in the Hotel Presidente
(2-221-3832 / http://Thunderbirdresorts.com/info/en/destinations.costarica.aspx)
A REALLY GOOD Casino!!! GAMES: 300 Slots, Rummy / Blackjack / 21, Craps, Pai Gow Poker, Caribbean Stud / Tute. They’re the only casino in San Jose that has Player Tracking & the only one in Costa Rica that has it on the machines.
LOCATION: San Jose-Downtown - Avenida Central between Calle 7 and 9
Horseshoe Casino
(2-233-4383 / http://HSCasino.com)
Low minimums, not real noisy/crazy, not crowded. GAMES: Slot Machines (50, Slot Club Comp), Rummy (500-c min.), Blackjack ($5 min.), Craps ($5 min.), Texas Hold’em Poker, Tute, 21, Pai Gow Poker, Pai Gow Tiles, Race & Sports Book, Sports Tournaments. No hookers persay but I’ve heard of a few guys getting “hit up” by some of the “hostesses”. Much of their staff speaks English. BUFFET. Valet Parking, LIVE ENTERTAINMENT. Qualified players may get free air and hotel. Highest Limits in Latin America.
LOCATION: San Jose-Downtown - Avenida Uno between Calle 7 and 9 (caddy corner to the Del Rey)
Aurola Holiday Inn’s Casino
(2-222-2424 / 2-233-9490 / http://1costaricalink.com/eng/hotels/hots/hots-aurola-4.htm)
The NICEST as it’s on the top floor - 17 floors above the city with spectacular views!!
GAMES: Slots, Game Tables.
LOCATION: San Jose - Avenido Quinto and Calle Quinto
Morozan Tropical Casino & Hotel
(2-219-2470 / 2-222-4622 / http:www.1costaricalink.com/eng/hotels/hots/crmorazan/home.htm)
GAMES: 25 Slots, Gaming Tables.
LOCATION: Calle 7 between Avenida 1 & 3 - in front of Parque Morazan. (owned Casinos Europa?)
Gran Hotel’s Casino
(2-221-4000 / 2-222-6126)
GAMES: Slots & 6 Gaming Tables.
LOCATION: San Jose - Calle 3 between Avenida Central & 2
Grand Hotel’s Casino
(2-223-2573)
Del Rey’s Casino
(2-257-7800)
The most famous casino in the because it’s THE "working girls" spot. GAMES: Video Poker Machines mixed within the Slot Machines, Craps. Often the minimum bets are MUCH higher (OFTEN $25 min.). Most guys that go to here are looking for the “action” (fyi - I hear the girls here are around $80/hour [PLUS you HAVE to pay for a room there or somewhere else] and VERY “Give me your money - what do you want!!” = cold! VERY smokey.
LOCATION: San Jose-Downtown - Calle 9 & Avenida 1
Cheetahs Casino
(2-233-4383)
GAMES:
LOCATION: Avenida Primero between Calle 7 and 9 San Jose.
Krystal Casino in the Sheraton Herradura Hotel
(2-239-0033)
GAMES: 20 Slots, 4 Game Tables. Daily. LOCATION: San Jose
Paradisio Casino in the Clarion Hotel
(http://casino-paradiso.com)
This is a nicer, quieter, classier place with underground parking (thanx Steve). GAMES: Blackjack (1 table, $5 min.), Craps (though I hear it’s not often open but request it of the Pit Boss and I hear they will open! (500-c or $5 in dollars min.
LOCATION: San Jose - Bario Amon
Confort Casino (232-8122)
LOCATION: San Jose - Sabana Norte
Hotel M Casino
(http://HotelMCostaRica.com / 2-253-8345)
They are a Priavte Club/Card Room featuring Texas Hold’em Poker in their courtyard. Daily games of no limit along with their Sunday tournaments. This is actually a Texas Hold’M Club that will benefit players. LOCATION: San Jose - Bario Dent
Europa Casino & Restaurant in the Raddisson Hotel
(2-256-4949 / http://radisson.com/sanjosecr)
GAMES: 30 Slots, 3 Card Poker, Baccarat, Canasta/Roulette, Caribbean Stud Poker, Craps, Pai Gow Poker, Rommy Blackjack, Tute.
LOCATION: San Jose - Barrio Tournon, Goicoechea - Calle Central between Avenida 3-15
Jungle Casino/Casino Central
(2-221-4994)
LOCATION: San Jose - San Jose - Avenida Central between Calle 7 and 9.
Royal Dutch Casino & Hotel
(2-222-1414 / http://1costaricalink.com/eng/hotels/hots/hots-royaldu-3.htm)
GAMES: 50 Slots, 6 Gaming Tables.
LOCATION: San Jose - Calle Central and Calle 4 & Avenida 2 (owned Casinos Europa)
Corobici Casino in the Crowne Plaza Hotel
Club Triangulo Casino
Fiesta Casino Cacique
(2-261-9447 / http://ThunderbirdResorts.com/info/en/destinations.costarica.aspx)
GAMES: 100 Slots (expanding soon to 200), Rummy / Blackjack / 21, Craps, Pai Gow Poker, Caribbean Stud / Tute.
LOCATION: Heredia - Centro - southside of the park
Condesa Casino
(2-267-6000/2-267-6290)
LOCATION: Heredia (San Rafael)
ESCAZU
White House Jazz West Wing Casino
(2-288-6365 / 2-228-6992 / http://CasinoJazz.com / http://WhiteHouseCostaRica.com)
VERY Upscale/High-end, GORGEOUS VIEWS, lots of more upscale "girls," Cigar Bar, Jazz Club, GOOD Restaurant with gringo quality meats/STEAKS (USDA Angus). GAMES: Vegas style gambling with they claim the best odds and highest limits in the Central Valley. Blackjack, Craps, Tute, Roulette Wheel, POKER ROOM and Slot Machines. Fri. is LADIES NIGHT with Ladies Texas Hold'em Tournament with only a $25 buy in.
LOCATION: Escazu - San Antonio - DIRECTIONS: WAYYYY up the hill - 600 mts. South of the cemetery. HOURS: 6pm-2am.
Camino Real in the Intercontinental Hotel
(289-7000)
LOCATION: off the Pista - across from the MultiPlaza West Mall - Escazu
OUTSIDE THE CENTRAL VALLEY:
Kamuk Casino at the Best Western
(2-777-0811 / http://kamuk.co.cr/casino)
GAMES: Tute, Roulette, Romy, Pay Gow Poker, Mini Bacara and of course, slot machines.
LOCATION: Manuel Antonio
Parador Casino
(2-777-1414)
LOCATION: Manuel Antonio
Divisamar Casino
(2-777-0371)
LOCATION: Manuel Antonio
Pacifico
(2-777-0905)
LOCATION: Manuel Antonio
Cocal Casino & Hotel (2-643-3067)
LOCATION: Playa Jaco
Flamingo Casino at the Flamino Beach Resort
(2-654-4011 / 2-654-4350)
LOCATION: Flamingo Beach
Best Western Coco Verde’s Casino
(2-670-049)
LOCATION: Playas del Coco
Playas del Coco’s Casino
(2-670-0110)
LOCATION: Playas del Coco
Los Suenos Mariott Casino & Hotel
(2-298-0000)
LOCATION: Playa Herradura
Maribu Caribe
(2-798-3750)
LOCATION: Limon
Association overseeing Casinos: Asociacion de Casinos
Monday, March 31, 2008
Living in or Traveling around Costa Rica but desire to travel to other Latin and Caribbean Countries yet the high cost holds you back?
Hey, though those of us living in Costa Rica LIVE IN PARADISE, sometimes ya just gotta have a change of pace!
Or, sometimes our friends visiting us want to explore other countries/lands as well!
It's not always so easy and it often can be quite costly/expensive!
My Australian friend Suzanne wanted to fly from here/Costa Rica to Peru. Most of the airlines and travel agencies she spoke with in Costa Rica quoted her around $1200!!
I called my friend Rocio (a BEAUTIFUL Spirit!) from Peru and she gave me the hint to look into flying on Spirit Airlines.
Since Spirit's Hub is Ft. Lauderdale, Suzanne had to first fly to Ft. Lauderdale and overnight (she found a room with Free Airport Transfers, Continental Breakfast and WiFi at Holiday Inn Express for under $80 with taxes through http://www.HotelClub.net, she STILL saved around $500 by flying on Spirit Airlines (that savings factors in the hotel for the one night near the airport)!!
She could have saved LOTS more if she could have traveled on a later date to take advantage of those amazing Spirit Air deals you sign up for on their website (https://www.spiritair.com/welcome.aspx?pg=9dfcsignup) as well as if she was not traveling during Samana Santa. If she could have gone 3 weeks later I believe the whole trip would have been around $450 or possibly even less from CR to Peru!!
This is a GOOD hint, especially for those living in Costa Rica needing a change of pace or 90-day Visa run!
Where else Spirit Air flies to (outside the U.S.):
ARUBA
BAHAMAS - Nassau, San Salvador
CAYMEN ISLANDS - Grand Cayman
COLUMBIA - Bogata, Cartagena
COSTA RICA
DOMINICAN REPUBLIC - Santo Domingo, Punta Cana
GUATAMALA - Guatamala City
HAITI - Port au Prince
HONDURAS - San Pedro Sula
JAMAICA - Kingston, Montego Bay
MEXICO - Cancun
NICARAGUA - Managua
PANAMA - Panama City
PERU - Lima
PUERTO RICO - San Jan, Aguadilla, Ponce
TURKS & CAICOS ISLANDS - Providenciales
USVI - US VIRGIN ISLAND - St. Thomas, St. Maarten
Do you have other cheap travel hints for traveling to/from Costa Rica??? E- me at TheFountainsGuesthouseCR@gmail.com
.
http://www.SpiritAir.com
Or, sometimes our friends visiting us want to explore other countries/lands as well!
It's not always so easy and it often can be quite costly/expensive!
My Australian friend Suzanne wanted to fly from here/Costa Rica to Peru. Most of the airlines and travel agencies she spoke with in Costa Rica quoted her around $1200!!
I called my friend Rocio (a BEAUTIFUL Spirit!) from Peru and she gave me the hint to look into flying on Spirit Airlines.
Since Spirit's Hub is Ft. Lauderdale, Suzanne had to first fly to Ft. Lauderdale and overnight (she found a room with Free Airport Transfers, Continental Breakfast and WiFi at Holiday Inn Express for under $80 with taxes through http://www.HotelClub.net, she STILL saved around $500 by flying on Spirit Airlines (that savings factors in the hotel for the one night near the airport)!!
She could have saved LOTS more if she could have traveled on a later date to take advantage of those amazing Spirit Air deals you sign up for on their website (https://www.spiritair.com/welcome.aspx?pg=9dfcsignup) as well as if she was not traveling during Samana Santa. If she could have gone 3 weeks later I believe the whole trip would have been around $450 or possibly even less from CR to Peru!!
This is a GOOD hint, especially for those living in Costa Rica needing a change of pace or 90-day Visa run!
Where else Spirit Air flies to (outside the U.S.):
ARUBA
BAHAMAS - Nassau, San Salvador
CAYMEN ISLANDS - Grand Cayman
COLUMBIA - Bogata, Cartagena
COSTA RICA
DOMINICAN REPUBLIC - Santo Domingo, Punta Cana
GUATAMALA - Guatamala City
HAITI - Port au Prince
HONDURAS - San Pedro Sula
JAMAICA - Kingston, Montego Bay
MEXICO - Cancun
NICARAGUA - Managua
PANAMA - Panama City
PERU - Lima
PUERTO RICO - San Jan, Aguadilla, Ponce
TURKS & CAICOS ISLANDS - Providenciales
USVI - US VIRGIN ISLAND - St. Thomas, St. Maarten
Do you have other cheap travel hints for traveling to/from Costa Rica??? E- me at TheFountainsGuesthouseCR@gmail.com
.
http://www.SpiritAir.com
Saturday, March 29, 2008
IMPORTANT MESSAGE - EARTH HOUR - Please turn off ALL electricity from 8-9pm wherever you are in the world TONIGHT
DID YOU PARTICIPATE IN THIS? IT'S NEVER TOO LATE!!! How about creating YOUR OWN Earth HourS EVERY DAY or WEEK??? It was kinda nice - a quiet time to go within! I'm going to do this weekly!!
Have you received the email yet about EARTH HOUR?
Please turn off ALL electricity from 8-9pm wherever you are in the world TONIGHT!!! For more info and to show your participation http://www.EarthHour.com I signed up for it & am doing it! (note: It's a SLOW site - probably because SOOOO MANY people are logging onto it!).
PLEASE forward this info on to EVERYONE you know!!
Have you received the email yet about EARTH HOUR?
Please turn off ALL electricity from 8-9pm wherever you are in the world TONIGHT!!! For more info and to show your participation http://www.EarthHour.com I signed up for it & am doing it! (note: It's a SLOW site - probably because SOOOO MANY people are logging onto it!).
PLEASE forward this info on to EVERYONE you know!!
Monday, March 24, 2008
A Member of our Community Needs Your Help
THIS IS A 2 PART EMAIL - ONE DESCRIBING THE SITUATION AND THE OTHER OFFERING ASSISTANCE/A BENEFIT
Patrons and friends seek to help mother of well-known Santa Ana worker
By the A.M. Costa Rica staff http://www.AMCostaRica.com
Olga Efimenko moved to Costa Rica from Russia about eight years ago and lived with her 86-year-old mother in Santa Ana, according to a coworker. But Saturday a fire left all her hard work in ashes and inflicted severe burns on her mother.
Maria Paula, Ms. Efimenko's mother, heard the family's German shepherd, Rocky, barking Saturday morning and opened the bedroom door, according to friend Joanne Loewen. A curtain of flames rushed at her, and she tried in vain to fight the fire with a garden hose, said Ms. Loewen. Instead, Maria suffered burns to 50 percent of her body, according to Alonso Umaña Calzada, a fireman based in Santa Ana. As for the house, there is nothing left. Even the steel structure melted, said Ms. Loewen.
The house fire is speculated to have started from an electrical problem, but the case is still being investigated, reported Umaña Sunday evening.
Ms. Efimenko, has been a beloved waitress at Rock & Roll Pollo in Santa Ana for two years. Coworkers describe her as friendly and kind. “We all love her a lot, and so do the clients,” said Lina Carrero Congote, a fellow worker.
“She is very special to us and always cares for everyone above herself.” Before that she worked nearby in another establishment frequented by expats.
Ms. Loewen, decided to start a fund when she found out what happened. After a beach trip, Ms. Loewen planned to meet Ms. Efimenko at her house. When she saw the damage and heard what happened she began to spread the news and raise funds. Today, Ms. Loewen will set up a bank account and give the number to friends of Ms. Efimenko. She will also hang up posters and donation boxes in local restaurants.
By noon on Sunday she had already received $300, she said. The money will go to pay medical bills and provide an existence, she said. Ms. Efimenko's mother has a 60 percent chance of survival, said Ms. Loewen.
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BENEFIT FOR OLGA & HER MOM THIS SUN. AT ROCK & ROLL POLLO!!
I JUST hung up with Bill Russi (the owner of Rock and Roll Pollo) who said he will be hosting a BENEFIT to help raise MUCH NEEDED funds for Olga (a WONDERFUL GAL/his employee with such a SUNNY personality!!) and her mom after their fire and to help with her mom's recovering.
WHEN: Sun. March 30 - 2pm till ??
WHERE: Rock and Roll Pollo - Santa Ana (see detailed directions below)
WHAT: FREE food (NO host bar though), LIVE Music and a RAFFLE (PLEASE be generous with buying tickets or at least making some sort of donation [don't just mooch!! That's my comment, not Bills]).
Speaking of Raffles, do you have ANYTHING to gift/donate? Got any gifts that someone else gave you that you do not use/care for (pay it forward and put it to GOOD use, not just hidden in the closet!!). No matter how big or small I am sure it will be greatly appreciated and it betters all of our chances of winning something!!!
You can email Bill at willbill@racsa. co. cr (all run together) or call him at 8-848-3003*
DIRECTIONS: (20 min. SW of San Jose)
From Escazu - Going down the windy hill/Calle Viejo/the Old Road - pass El Escribo (the restaurant with LOTS of people dancing at night on the left!) - about 300 mts. West (200 mts after you’re on the flatland, 200 mts West of Plaza Intigua [they have a day spa]) . If you hit Ceviche del Rey (300 meters - where the road splits into one-ways) - you’ve gone too far.
From Santa Ana - 1km East of Cruz Roja - about 300 meters after the street merges from being a one way (East-bound) to both ways.
OFF THE PISTA/HIGHWAY: Get off at the Santa Ana/Airport Exit. Turn Left/South at the exit/light. At the end of the road (where the Red Cross/Cruz Rojo is) turn Left onto the second street (a one-way street heading Left/East) passing through Santa Ana Centro, 1km past the Cruz Roja.
Sharing their parking lot is a little store called Mimbres selling wicker furniture.
The sign is pretty small with a BIG YELLOW Imperial sign on top.
(I'm giving ALL these details because it's quite easy to pass it by).
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*If you would like to donate something and do not have time to get it to RRP in time but can make it to Escazu ON Calle Vieja near Calle Country Club (an easy bus ride from the CocaCola building) - you can bring it my place and I will get it to them by Sun. Contact me at 8-378-6679 or TheFountainsGuesthouseEscazu@gmail.com - Vicki
DONATIONS CAN BE MADE AT: Banco de San José in account number 907-556-004
Patrons and friends seek to help mother of well-known Santa Ana worker
By the A.M. Costa Rica staff http://www.AMCostaRica.com
Olga Efimenko moved to Costa Rica from Russia about eight years ago and lived with her 86-year-old mother in Santa Ana, according to a coworker. But Saturday a fire left all her hard work in ashes and inflicted severe burns on her mother.
Maria Paula, Ms. Efimenko's mother, heard the family's German shepherd, Rocky, barking Saturday morning and opened the bedroom door, according to friend Joanne Loewen. A curtain of flames rushed at her, and she tried in vain to fight the fire with a garden hose, said Ms. Loewen. Instead, Maria suffered burns to 50 percent of her body, according to Alonso Umaña Calzada, a fireman based in Santa Ana. As for the house, there is nothing left. Even the steel structure melted, said Ms. Loewen.
The house fire is speculated to have started from an electrical problem, but the case is still being investigated, reported Umaña Sunday evening.
Ms. Efimenko, has been a beloved waitress at Rock & Roll Pollo in Santa Ana for two years. Coworkers describe her as friendly and kind. “We all love her a lot, and so do the clients,” said Lina Carrero Congote, a fellow worker.
“She is very special to us and always cares for everyone above herself.” Before that she worked nearby in another establishment frequented by expats.
Ms. Loewen, decided to start a fund when she found out what happened. After a beach trip, Ms. Loewen planned to meet Ms. Efimenko at her house. When she saw the damage and heard what happened she began to spread the news and raise funds. Today, Ms. Loewen will set up a bank account and give the number to friends of Ms. Efimenko. She will also hang up posters and donation boxes in local restaurants.
By noon on Sunday she had already received $300, she said. The money will go to pay medical bills and provide an existence, she said. Ms. Efimenko's mother has a 60 percent chance of survival, said Ms. Loewen.
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BENEFIT FOR OLGA & HER MOM THIS SUN. AT ROCK & ROLL POLLO!!
I JUST hung up with Bill Russi (the owner of Rock and Roll Pollo) who said he will be hosting a BENEFIT to help raise MUCH NEEDED funds for Olga (a WONDERFUL GAL/his employee with such a SUNNY personality!!) and her mom after their fire and to help with her mom's recovering.
WHEN: Sun. March 30 - 2pm till ??
WHERE: Rock and Roll Pollo - Santa Ana (see detailed directions below)
WHAT: FREE food (NO host bar though), LIVE Music and a RAFFLE (PLEASE be generous with buying tickets or at least making some sort of donation [don't just mooch!! That's my comment, not Bills]).
Speaking of Raffles, do you have ANYTHING to gift/donate? Got any gifts that someone else gave you that you do not use/care for (pay it forward and put it to GOOD use, not just hidden in the closet!!). No matter how big or small I am sure it will be greatly appreciated and it betters all of our chances of winning something!!!
You can email Bill at willbill@racsa. co. cr (all run together) or call him at 8-848-3003*
DIRECTIONS: (20 min. SW of San Jose)
From Escazu - Going down the windy hill/Calle Viejo/the Old Road - pass El Escribo (the restaurant with LOTS of people dancing at night on the left!) - about 300 mts. West (200 mts after you’re on the flatland, 200 mts West of Plaza Intigua [they have a day spa]) . If you hit Ceviche del Rey (300 meters - where the road splits into one-ways) - you’ve gone too far.
From Santa Ana - 1km East of Cruz Roja - about 300 meters after the street merges from being a one way (East-bound) to both ways.
OFF THE PISTA/HIGHWAY: Get off at the Santa Ana/Airport Exit. Turn Left/South at the exit/light. At the end of the road (where the Red Cross/Cruz Rojo is) turn Left onto the second street (a one-way street heading Left/East) passing through Santa Ana Centro, 1km past the Cruz Roja.
Sharing their parking lot is a little store called Mimbres selling wicker furniture.
The sign is pretty small with a BIG YELLOW Imperial sign on top.
(I'm giving ALL these details because it's quite easy to pass it by).
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*If you would like to donate something and do not have time to get it to RRP in time but can make it to Escazu ON Calle Vieja near Calle Country Club (an easy bus ride from the CocaCola building) - you can bring it my place and I will get it to them by Sun. Contact me at 8-378-6679 or TheFountainsGuesthouseEscazu@gmail.com - Vicki
DONATIONS CAN BE MADE AT: Banco de San José in account number 907-556-004
Are you even remotely fantasizing/thinking of moving to Costa Rica, ATTEND ARCR's SEMINAR!!!!
For ANYONE even REMOTELY fantasizing/thinking about moving to Costa Rica, I HIGHLY “recommend” you attend ARCR’s (the Association of Residents of Costa Rica) "LIVING IN COSTA RICA SEMINARS" (and I am not one to “recommend” things [I “share information” since we ALL have different tastes, experiences, etc. so I can only speak from MY experiences])
When I found out about it, I changed my dates/ticket at a cost to me of well I think around $200 and with that said, it was WELL worth the investment!!!
WHEN: The last Thurs. (8am-4:15pm) AND Fri. (8:10am-3:40pm) of most months (I know not Dec. and am not poz on any others).
COST: Non-Members: $65 for both days (if you join, $25 will be deducted from the $100 membership fee). Members: $40 (price includes 2 days of seminars, lunches and coffee breaks)
WHERE: NEW LOCATIONS!!! The seminars are now held at the Costa Rica TENNIS CLUB (on the South side of Sabana Park)
For more details contact 2-233-8068 / 2-221-2053 / seminar@CasaCanada.net / http://www.ARCR.net
(I deal Anabelle at ARCR - she speaks GREAT English and is REALLY helpful!! Tell her Vicki sent ya!!)
When I found out about it, I changed my dates/ticket at a cost to me of well I think around $200 and with that said, it was WELL worth the investment!!!
WHEN: The last Thurs. (8am-4:15pm) AND Fri. (8:10am-3:40pm) of most months (I know not Dec. and am not poz on any others).
COST: Non-Members: $65 for both days (if you join, $25 will be deducted from the $100 membership fee). Members: $40 (price includes 2 days of seminars, lunches and coffee breaks)
WHERE: NEW LOCATIONS!!! The seminars are now held at the Costa Rica TENNIS CLUB (on the South side of Sabana Park)
For more details contact 2-233-8068 / 2-221-2053 / seminar@CasaCanada.net / http://www.ARCR.net
(I deal Anabelle at ARCR - she speaks GREAT English and is REALLY helpful!! Tell her Vicki sent ya!!)
Friday, March 14, 2008
EASE TIP - FINDING OUT WHAT TV SHOWS ARE ON, WHEN AND WHAT CHANNEL THEY'RE ON - For those of you Living In Costa Rica
Want to find out what shows are on your tv, when it is on and what channel for those of you living in Costa RIca?
First go to www.TVGuide.com/listings/setup/localizeInt.aspx?Country=Costa+Rica
Then click on to whatever area/provider you have.
When you click there, you can create Favorite Channels by going to the red button marked Set Custom View (I found it best to make a list of the channels and call letters I liked before doing this).
This will show you the CR channels.
Since the major network channels (ABC, CBS, NBC, CNN, Fox News) come from a DIFFERENT U.S. city, Go to Edit Location, then to the city your network feed comes from (my Amnet in Escazu I believe is Denver Metro) and then they asked for a zip code in that city (I input 80220. E- me if you need a zip code in a city and can not find one).
I was able to create a Favorite Channels in that area also. Keep in mind when there is no Daylight Savings TIme in the States, all shows are an hour BEHIND the time here.
MORE EASE!!!
Do not have internet access easily? La Nacion newspaper's Sunday issue has a television guide in it.
First go to www.TVGuide.com/listings/setup/localizeInt.aspx?Country=Costa+Rica
Then click on to whatever area/provider you have.
When you click there, you can create Favorite Channels by going to the red button marked Set Custom View (I found it best to make a list of the channels and call letters I liked before doing this).
This will show you the CR channels.
Since the major network channels (ABC, CBS, NBC, CNN, Fox News) come from a DIFFERENT U.S. city, Go to Edit Location, then to the city your network feed comes from (my Amnet in Escazu I believe is Denver Metro) and then they asked for a zip code in that city (I input 80220. E- me if you need a zip code in a city and can not find one).
I was able to create a Favorite Channels in that area also. Keep in mind when there is no Daylight Savings TIme in the States, all shows are an hour BEHIND the time here.
MORE EASE!!!
Do not have internet access easily? La Nacion newspaper's Sunday issue has a television guide in it.
Wednesday, March 12, 2008
FINDS - LAUNDROMAT / LAVANDERIA / LAUNDRY THAT WASHES PERSONAL CLOTHES BY THE KILO
Did your washing machine break down? Visiting and do not want to pay high hotel prices to wash your clothes?
After MUCH searching - I FINALLY found a LAUNDROMAT / LAVANDERIA that machine washes and dries your clothes!!
ESCAZU
LAVANDERIA STAR CLEANERS
LOCATION: Centro Escazu in Plaza Real (home to Sushi Goyi).
CONTACT: 228-7508 / 306-9124. OWNER: Maritza Valenzuela
HOURS: Mon.-Sat. 8am-6pm.
PRICE: 1,000-c/Kilo.
CURRIDABAT - I heard there's a Laundromat in Plaza Cristal.
AQUAMATIC -
PAVAS 291-2847
MORAVIA 235-9174
SABANILLA 283-7844
JACO 643-2083
QUEPOS 777-0972
LARGE - COMMERCIAL / INDUSTRIAL LAUNDRY JOBS:
Bill and Carol Wunderle (Suzuki technique music/ piano teach extrodinare!! 232-3999 / carol@PianoPathway.com) own MEDICO LUX which does LARGE INDUSTRIAL WASHING JOBS (like for medical offices, hotels and restaurants. Businesses that desire a sterile environments - NO personal laundry). They up to a 60 kilo machine (it can fit a person in it!!) so they can do COMFORTERS!
CONTACT: 375-6101 / 254-0826 / CarolAndBil@hotmail.com
LOCATION: Hatillo Centro
HOURS: Mon.-Fri. 7am-10pm, Sat. 7am-noon
PRICE: Start at 475-c/kilo
After MUCH searching - I FINALLY found a LAUNDROMAT / LAVANDERIA that machine washes and dries your clothes!!
ESCAZU
LAVANDERIA STAR CLEANERS
LOCATION: Centro Escazu in Plaza Real (home to Sushi Goyi).
CONTACT: 228-7508 / 306-9124. OWNER: Maritza Valenzuela
HOURS: Mon.-Sat. 8am-6pm.
PRICE: 1,000-c/Kilo.
CURRIDABAT - I heard there's a Laundromat in Plaza Cristal.
AQUAMATIC -
PAVAS 291-2847
MORAVIA 235-9174
SABANILLA 283-7844
JACO 643-2083
QUEPOS 777-0972
LARGE - COMMERCIAL / INDUSTRIAL LAUNDRY JOBS:
Bill and Carol Wunderle (Suzuki technique music/ piano teach extrodinare!! 232-3999 / carol@PianoPathway.com) own MEDICO LUX which does LARGE INDUSTRIAL WASHING JOBS (like for medical offices, hotels and restaurants. Businesses that desire a sterile environments - NO personal laundry). They up to a 60 kilo machine (it can fit a person in it!!) so they can do COMFORTERS!
CONTACT: 375-6101 / 254-0826 / CarolAndBil@hotmail.com
LOCATION: Hatillo Centro
HOURS: Mon.-Fri. 7am-10pm, Sat. 7am-noon
PRICE: Start at 475-c/kilo
FIND - CELL PHONES - Repairs and Old and New Technology Phones in Costa Rica (Escazu)
After MUCH searching for an old technology cell phone (the new technology phones still have LOTS of kinks to work out. 90% of the time when I phone someone with a new technology cellular phone it says it is not working, it does not ring or it is out of a zone) I found someone that can get a hold of an old basic cheapo Nokia - right in my back yard!! Though, it may take a couple/few days to get them as he does not always have them in stock.
He also sells the new technology phones and can do repairs AND he speaks fairly good ENGLISH!
Jorge Abarca with TUTTO's CELULAR (289-4036 / 391-0604) is located in Escazu ON Calle Vieja - 100 meters East of Calle Country Club - across the street from Plaza Oblisque and 150 mts West of the ICE Building). He is open Mon.-Fri. from 9am-7pm. Sat. 9am-5pm.
He also sells the new technology phones and can do repairs AND he speaks fairly good ENGLISH!
Jorge Abarca with TUTTO's CELULAR (289-4036 / 391-0604) is located in Escazu ON Calle Vieja - 100 meters East of Calle Country Club - across the street from Plaza Oblisque and 150 mts West of the ICE Building). He is open Mon.-Fri. from 9am-7pm. Sat. 9am-5pm.
FIND!! SEAMSTRESS in Costa Rica (Escazu)
Kazare just gave me info on her gal that comes to YOU (though she does not have a sewing machine) for just 12,000 for 7 hours!! She does not speak English but she's good and can make anything from clothes, pillows with zippers, curtains, etc.!!
Contact Mercedes at 213-5292 (fyi - she lives in Escazu)
Contact Mercedes at 213-5292 (fyi - she lives in Escazu)
Tuesday, March 4, 2008
LIST - Apple / Macintosh / Mac Repair Technicians in Costa Rica
NOTE: Hardware/parts for Macs can be harder to come by here, take time and ain't cheap (I believe they charge about 37% Duty on computer items)! Used parts are even harder to come by!!
Also, if you bought your computer outside of Costa Rica, CHECK THE WARRANTY BEFORE YOU COME (or buy it) as I bought my Mac's in the States, telling the dealer that I was buying the iMac & iBook specifically to MOVE to Costa Rica. They sold me the Extended Warranty for an extra 2-3 years. My first week here, I was having problems with links on emails so I called one of the main internet providers and spoke with a Mac specialist (trust me, they do not have many here!!) who punched up some things in the computer and told me to reboot my computer. I made the mistake of ASSUMING that all was fine & hung up and restarted my computer and DEAD - BLACK - NOTHING!!! Since I work 10-15+ hours a day on my baby, I PANICKED!!! I called back and "he wasn't available" and that was the message I got for 3 days. First thing the next day I ran to Mac dealer near me (ICON) who told me the Hard Drive was blown out (this on a 3 month NEW computer!!!) and then gave me the "great" news - that my warranty did not cover me outside the U.S.!!! So $350 or so and a week later - I was back on track. Unfortunately I wasn't able to use my laptop much because I had accidentally left behind the power source for my new iBook and they couldn't get a new one in for WEEKS so after buying all the batteries they had (at about $100/each I think) the new power cord FINALLY came in (I want to say that was about $140 or so).
APPLE / MACINTOSH REPAIR TECHNICIANS
MY FAV FABULOUS Mac Repair guy - Jorge/"George" Calvo (394-3296 / JorgeCalvo@mac.com)
Read more details at: http://LivingLifeInCostaRica.blogspot.com/2007/11/finds-apple-macintosh-repair-technician.html
He's $30/hour plus gas money (standard rate from the 1/2 dozen I have info on). He was VERY patient with my NON-techno self/talk!
If Jorge is not available, here are a few other options (I've not experienced most of these - just sharin' info!!):
John Thomas Chavarria - Laboratoria de Electronica - Avenida 5 y Calle 26 (221-8709 / 257-4820-p/fax / 376-8901 / JThomas@racsa.co.cr / JTE_LdE@hotmail.com)
He has a shop in San Jose though he will come to you in an extreme emergency. He's one of the few people that can repair iPods. He also have used Macs for sale. HOURS: Mon.-Fri. 7am-5:30pm Check the computer - $36 for labor. Some English
Roberto Mora (899-5159 / RM@BlueSkyCR.com) - He used to work at ICON MultiPlaza-West but now he’s doing some repair (he comes to you) plus real estate in Jaco. He’s in Jaco during the week & the Central Valley on the weekends. He comes to you and speaks GREAT English. Rates start around $40/hr. He’s a real sweetie & GOOD at what he does (he's been a Godsend to me MANY times when he was at ICON)!
David Zeledon (853-2451 / david@terramundis.net)
He's located in Escazu but he mainly comes to you. RATES: $30 (includes his time to get there) & $20 thereafter. He works on PC’s as well. David's a Tico that speaks GREAT English.
Marvin Bermudez (886-9711 / 292-6216 / techniapple@ice.co.cr)
He lives in San Antonio de Coronado and you can go to him or he can come to you - Christopher Howard (www.CostaRicaBooks.com) recommended him HIGHLY (though he DOES speak some English if you speak slowly!)
Kevin Norman (819-2085 / Kevin24@gmail.com)
He's located near Carrieri Mall but he usually comes to you. Rates - $40/hour, $30 thereafter. Also works on Network Security, Cicso, Windows servers, Windows, most IT issues. From States so great English plus fluent in Spanish.
Kenyon Zahner (286-5821 / 838-0812 / tlyn2003@hotmail.com)
He speaks English and lots of Spanish. He can come to you or you go to him at his place in San Sebastian (about 3 miles North of Downtown SJ). Starts at AROUND $25/hour if he comes to you (case-by-case basis). He’ll come to you wherever (for the right price).
He says he can help with anything from iMacs, PowerBooks and iBooks to G3/G4/G5 Desktops. Troubleshooting, Upgrades and Installations. Operating Systems OS X (Jaguar/Panther/Tiger), OS 9. Software: Microsoft Office, Adobe Creative Suite 2 (Photoshop, Illustrator etc.) iLife ‘05, Final Cut Studio: Final Cut Pro 5, Motion 2, Soundtrack Pro, DVD Studio Pro 4/ Final Cut Pro and Express, DVD Studio Pro, After Effects, QuickTime Pro, Acrobat, Toast Titanium, Quark Express, Utilites, Adobe Font Library, Web Design, Dreamweaver, Fireworks, Flash, Virex, Audio, (Too much to list).
“Dr. Mac” Diego Rivera (381-1283 / 222-5850 / 223-4159)
San Jose
Oliver Duex (333-2729 / CorrectingTime@fastmail.fm) - LOCATION: He comes to you in Lake Arenal area or you go to him (in Barrio Los Palmares). Repairs Macs and PCs. He also gives lessons on MS Office, Photoshop and Adobe Suites and does Web Designing. Rates start at $18/hour. Oliver speaks GREAT German, English and Spanish (thanx Carl Franklin)
STORES
(NOTE: I've found that stores often take MUCH longer and can be lots more expensive often)
2nd / Second Call Computer Store in Escazu (San Rafael - across from McDonalds on the main road. Next door to the video store & KFC [Kentucky Fried Chicken] - 289-8000 / ventas.escazu@SecondCall.com / www.SecondCall.com)
Sometimes they have people that can work on Mac's (Alex) though it may take a few days or so.
PC Doctor - Stores are located in Plaza Real Carrieri - 293-3798 / Terra Mall - in front of Scotia Bank 518-1693
OFFICIAL MAC DEALERS
NOTE: I've DEFINITELY found that most of the "official dealers" are LOTS MORE $$$ for things and don't assume that they will have everything as it ain't easy to get things here.
ReproColor - Tibas (236-6067)
New, used Macs & PC and repairs. Jorge speaks some English. LOCATION: Burger King 100 East, 300 south. HOURS: Mon.-Fri. 8am-6pm.
ICON - www.icon.co.cr
STORES: Escazu - MultiPlaza-West - 201-5025 / 201-5026 (I think it was Fernando that helped me and he was REALLY helpful and a real sweetie and spoke English pretty well). HOURS: 10am-8pm
Zapote - MultiPlaza-East 280-1590 / 280-1556 / 280-1548. HOURS: 10am-8pm
San Pedro - Mall of SP - 234-5834 / 234-5835. HOURS: 10am-8pm
Heredia - Paseo de las Flores - 261-7454 / 261-7872. HOURS: 10am-8pm
SERVICE/OFFICE - Curridabat (de la Pops de Curridabat, 300 m sur, 100 m Este): OFFICE - 234-2076 / SERVICE - 225-3002 HOURS: Mon.-Fri. 8am-6pm
Diagnosis - takes 2+ days $25.
The people in ICON were GREAT and have ALWAYS been VERY VERY helpful with other little things where they didn't charge me to fix/alter (but I ALWAYS gave the store person that helped me $10-$20 as I was SOOOOO GRATEFUL!!!).
HINT: If you have a problem that you know is going to require them sending it in to their service/repair center - save yourself time by bringing it in YOURSELF to the main office in San Jose (that can save you a day on either end). SOME things might be able to be done in a local store like I've had to go there twice when I couldn't get wireless to work in my laptop (the day before leaving on a trip) & all I had to "pay" was a nice tip to the guy that helped me out.
PC CLUB of Costa Rica www.PCClub.net
Though they’re the “PC” club - they also have some Mac people in this group.
MEETING
WHEN: 3rd Sat. of each Month - Coffee and donuts start at 08:30, meeting starts at 09:00. The meetings last until 11:30 or when we are finished with business, classes and interchange of computer related fun.
WHERE: Belen - at that Panamerican School
NOTE: Anyone is welcome to attend one meeting without first joining to see if it fits their fancy. The meetings always include a free software and hardware clinic to solve any problems that members have. Members are encouraged to bring their computer or problems and the club will try to resolve these FREE of charge. We have classes and information sharing at each meeting that proves beneficial to all.
CONTACT: Chuck - 266-0123 / awake897@gmail.com
If you have techs to add, email me at TheFountainsGuesthouseCR@gmail.com
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Sponsored by Vicki at The Fountains Guesthouse in Escazu, Costa Rica
www.FountainsGuesthouse.com
Check out Vicki's new Blogs featuring Resources for those living in or traveling around Costa Rica -
VICKI'S BLOG OF LISTS: http://LivingLifeInCostaRica.blogspot.com (soon changing over to www.CostaRicaResourceGuide.com)
Have things to add/share/your experience? Email me the details at CostaRicaResourceGuide@gmail.com
JUST STARTING - COSTA RICA EATS GUIDE on restaurants (currently mainly in the West Central Valley area), specialty shops, menu/food related translations and MORE www.CostaRicaEatsGuide.com
Have things to add/share/your experience? Email me the details at CostaRicaEatsGuide@gmail.com
CALENDAR OF EVENTS: http://CostaRicaEventsCalendar.blogspot.com (soon changing over to www.WhatsHappeningInCostaRica.com)
Have an event/more details to share or have you received/seen info on something? Email me the details at WhatsHappeningInCostaRica@gmail.com
SCIENCE OF MIND BLOG (a new reading group will be starting within the next 2 weeks!): http://ScienceOfMindInCostaRica.blogspot.com
COSTA RICA CONSCIOUS COMMUNITY MESSAGE BOARD:
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/Costa_Rica_Conscious_Community
Also, if you bought your computer outside of Costa Rica, CHECK THE WARRANTY BEFORE YOU COME (or buy it) as I bought my Mac's in the States, telling the dealer that I was buying the iMac & iBook specifically to MOVE to Costa Rica. They sold me the Extended Warranty for an extra 2-3 years. My first week here, I was having problems with links on emails so I called one of the main internet providers and spoke with a Mac specialist (trust me, they do not have many here!!) who punched up some things in the computer and told me to reboot my computer. I made the mistake of ASSUMING that all was fine & hung up and restarted my computer and DEAD - BLACK - NOTHING!!! Since I work 10-15+ hours a day on my baby, I PANICKED!!! I called back and "he wasn't available" and that was the message I got for 3 days. First thing the next day I ran to Mac dealer near me (ICON) who told me the Hard Drive was blown out (this on a 3 month NEW computer!!!) and then gave me the "great" news - that my warranty did not cover me outside the U.S.!!! So $350 or so and a week later - I was back on track. Unfortunately I wasn't able to use my laptop much because I had accidentally left behind the power source for my new iBook and they couldn't get a new one in for WEEKS so after buying all the batteries they had (at about $100/each I think) the new power cord FINALLY came in (I want to say that was about $140 or so).
APPLE / MACINTOSH REPAIR TECHNICIANS
MY FAV FABULOUS Mac Repair guy - Jorge/"George" Calvo (394-3296 / JorgeCalvo@mac.com)
Read more details at: http://LivingLifeInCostaRica.blogspot.com/2007/11/finds-apple-macintosh-repair-technician.html
He's $30/hour plus gas money (standard rate from the 1/2 dozen I have info on). He was VERY patient with my NON-techno self/talk!
If Jorge is not available, here are a few other options (I've not experienced most of these - just sharin' info!!):
John Thomas Chavarria - Laboratoria de Electronica - Avenida 5 y Calle 26 (221-8709 / 257-4820-p/fax / 376-8901 / JThomas@racsa.co.cr / JTE_LdE@hotmail.com)
He has a shop in San Jose though he will come to you in an extreme emergency. He's one of the few people that can repair iPods. He also have used Macs for sale. HOURS: Mon.-Fri. 7am-5:30pm Check the computer - $36 for labor. Some English
Roberto Mora (899-5159 / RM@BlueSkyCR.com) - He used to work at ICON MultiPlaza-West but now he’s doing some repair (he comes to you) plus real estate in Jaco. He’s in Jaco during the week & the Central Valley on the weekends. He comes to you and speaks GREAT English. Rates start around $40/hr. He’s a real sweetie & GOOD at what he does (he's been a Godsend to me MANY times when he was at ICON)!
David Zeledon (853-2451 / david@terramundis.net)
He's located in Escazu but he mainly comes to you. RATES: $30 (includes his time to get there) & $20 thereafter. He works on PC’s as well. David's a Tico that speaks GREAT English.
Marvin Bermudez (886-9711 / 292-6216 / techniapple@ice.co.cr)
He lives in San Antonio de Coronado and you can go to him or he can come to you - Christopher Howard (www.CostaRicaBooks.com) recommended him HIGHLY (though he DOES speak some English if you speak slowly!)
Kevin Norman (819-2085 / Kevin24@gmail.com)
He's located near Carrieri Mall but he usually comes to you. Rates - $40/hour, $30 thereafter. Also works on Network Security, Cicso, Windows servers, Windows, most IT issues. From States so great English plus fluent in Spanish.
Kenyon Zahner (286-5821 / 838-0812 / tlyn2003@hotmail.com)
He speaks English and lots of Spanish. He can come to you or you go to him at his place in San Sebastian (about 3 miles North of Downtown SJ). Starts at AROUND $25/hour if he comes to you (case-by-case basis). He’ll come to you wherever (for the right price).
He says he can help with anything from iMacs, PowerBooks and iBooks to G3/G4/G5 Desktops. Troubleshooting, Upgrades and Installations. Operating Systems OS X (Jaguar/Panther/Tiger), OS 9. Software: Microsoft Office, Adobe Creative Suite 2 (Photoshop, Illustrator etc.) iLife ‘05, Final Cut Studio: Final Cut Pro 5, Motion 2, Soundtrack Pro, DVD Studio Pro 4/ Final Cut Pro and Express, DVD Studio Pro, After Effects, QuickTime Pro, Acrobat, Toast Titanium, Quark Express, Utilites, Adobe Font Library, Web Design, Dreamweaver, Fireworks, Flash, Virex, Audio, (Too much to list).
“Dr. Mac” Diego Rivera (381-1283 / 222-5850 / 223-4159)
San Jose
Oliver Duex (333-2729 / CorrectingTime@fastmail.fm) - LOCATION: He comes to you in Lake Arenal area or you go to him (in Barrio Los Palmares). Repairs Macs and PCs. He also gives lessons on MS Office, Photoshop and Adobe Suites and does Web Designing. Rates start at $18/hour. Oliver speaks GREAT German, English and Spanish (thanx Carl Franklin)
STORES
(NOTE: I've found that stores often take MUCH longer and can be lots more expensive often)
2nd / Second Call Computer Store in Escazu (San Rafael - across from McDonalds on the main road. Next door to the video store & KFC [Kentucky Fried Chicken] - 289-8000 / ventas.escazu@SecondCall.com / www.SecondCall.com)
Sometimes they have people that can work on Mac's (Alex) though it may take a few days or so.
PC Doctor - Stores are located in Plaza Real Carrieri - 293-3798 / Terra Mall - in front of Scotia Bank 518-1693
OFFICIAL MAC DEALERS
NOTE: I've DEFINITELY found that most of the "official dealers" are LOTS MORE $$$ for things and don't assume that they will have everything as it ain't easy to get things here.
ReproColor - Tibas (236-6067)
New, used Macs & PC and repairs. Jorge speaks some English. LOCATION: Burger King 100 East, 300 south. HOURS: Mon.-Fri. 8am-6pm.
ICON - www.icon.co.cr
STORES: Escazu - MultiPlaza-West - 201-5025 / 201-5026 (I think it was Fernando that helped me and he was REALLY helpful and a real sweetie and spoke English pretty well). HOURS: 10am-8pm
Zapote - MultiPlaza-East 280-1590 / 280-1556 / 280-1548. HOURS: 10am-8pm
San Pedro - Mall of SP - 234-5834 / 234-5835. HOURS: 10am-8pm
Heredia - Paseo de las Flores - 261-7454 / 261-7872. HOURS: 10am-8pm
SERVICE/OFFICE - Curridabat (de la Pops de Curridabat, 300 m sur, 100 m Este): OFFICE - 234-2076 / SERVICE - 225-3002 HOURS: Mon.-Fri. 8am-6pm
Diagnosis - takes 2+ days $25.
The people in ICON were GREAT and have ALWAYS been VERY VERY helpful with other little things where they didn't charge me to fix/alter (but I ALWAYS gave the store person that helped me $10-$20 as I was SOOOOO GRATEFUL!!!).
HINT: If you have a problem that you know is going to require them sending it in to their service/repair center - save yourself time by bringing it in YOURSELF to the main office in San Jose (that can save you a day on either end). SOME things might be able to be done in a local store like I've had to go there twice when I couldn't get wireless to work in my laptop (the day before leaving on a trip) & all I had to "pay" was a nice tip to the guy that helped me out.
PC CLUB of Costa Rica www.PCClub.net
Though they’re the “PC” club - they also have some Mac people in this group.
MEETING
WHEN: 3rd Sat. of each Month - Coffee and donuts start at 08:30, meeting starts at 09:00. The meetings last until 11:30 or when we are finished with business, classes and interchange of computer related fun.
WHERE: Belen - at that Panamerican School
NOTE: Anyone is welcome to attend one meeting without first joining to see if it fits their fancy. The meetings always include a free software and hardware clinic to solve any problems that members have. Members are encouraged to bring their computer or problems and the club will try to resolve these FREE of charge. We have classes and information sharing at each meeting that proves beneficial to all.
CONTACT: Chuck - 266-0123 / awake897@gmail.com
If you have techs to add, email me at TheFountainsGuesthouseCR@gmail.com
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Sponsored by Vicki at The Fountains Guesthouse in Escazu, Costa Rica
www.FountainsGuesthouse.com
Check out Vicki's new Blogs featuring Resources for those living in or traveling around Costa Rica -
VICKI'S BLOG OF LISTS: http://LivingLifeInCostaRica.blogspot.com (soon changing over to www.CostaRicaResourceGuide.com)
Have things to add/share/your experience? Email me the details at CostaRicaResourceGuide@gmail.com
JUST STARTING - COSTA RICA EATS GUIDE on restaurants (currently mainly in the West Central Valley area), specialty shops, menu/food related translations and MORE www.CostaRicaEatsGuide.com
Have things to add/share/your experience? Email me the details at CostaRicaEatsGuide@gmail.com
CALENDAR OF EVENTS: http://CostaRicaEventsCalendar.blogspot.com (soon changing over to www.WhatsHappeningInCostaRica.com)
Have an event/more details to share or have you received/seen info on something? Email me the details at WhatsHappeningInCostaRica@gmail.com
SCIENCE OF MIND BLOG (a new reading group will be starting within the next 2 weeks!): http://ScienceOfMindInCostaRica.blogspot.com
COSTA RICA CONSCIOUS COMMUNITY MESSAGE BOARD:
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/Costa_Rica_Conscious_Community
Tuesday, February 26, 2008
FINDS - NEW INDIAN, MEDITERRANEAN, MIDDLE EASTERN and VEGETARIAN RESTAURANT in Costa Rica
GANESHA
(238-0705 / RestauranteGanesha@yahoo.com)
LOCATION: Heredia-Centro - 75 meters Este de puerta principal del ICE in Heredia on Avenida 1 between Calle 5 y 7 (between ICE and the University).
AUTHENTIC INDIAN, MEDITERRANEAN, MIDDLE EASTERN & VEGETARIAN cuisine including Lassis, Jal Jeera, Kanji, Chai Masala, Samosas, Pakoras, Parathas, Saag Paneer, Chana Masala, Baingan ka Bharta, Tzatziki, Chicken Tikka Masala, Chicken Curry, Saag Chicken, Homemade Falafel, Hummus, Baba Ganoush, LAMB Shish Kebabs, Gulab Jamun, Kheer, Kulfi, SHWARMAS (1,750), 13 different Pita sandwhich, LOTS of different Indian drinks. Homemade BAKALVA.
I can't wait to try their Thali's which are combos of a few things for just 5,900-c. Their Non-Vegetarian Thali has Chicken Tikka Masala, Keema Matar, Dal, Raita, Mango Chutney, Basmati Rice and Naan or Pita bread. 5900-vegetarian. Their Mediterranean Thali of 3 pieces falafel, 3 shish kababs, hummus, tzasiki, tabula, pita bread – 7,900-c. Their Vegetarian Thali is just 5,900-c.
This is a GREAT place for VEGETARIANS including VEGETARIAN BURGER topped with spinach (2400-3500-c).
Robbie said it’s a really nice space, there is garden seating for 40 out back and a large upstairs that would be great for a special event.
PRICES: Range from 1400-7900-c (averaging about 3,000-c).
They also sell some of their BASMATI RICE, SPICES like homemade GARA MASALA, Cardomon seeds and ground, and YOGURT, CHICKPEA FLOUR+. LARGE RESTAURANT (40 in garden). NEW RESTAURANT ’08. No bar. CREDIT CARDS (all). CATERING. WIFI. HOURS: Mon.-Thurs. 11am-8:30pm, Fri. & Sat. 11am-9:30pm-ish, Sun. 11:30am-8:30pm.
OWNERS: Say “Hola” from Vicki to Indian Sunny & his CR wife Nohemy Neil.
(238-0705 / RestauranteGanesha@yahoo.com)
LOCATION: Heredia-Centro - 75 meters Este de puerta principal del ICE in Heredia on Avenida 1 between Calle 5 y 7 (between ICE and the University).
AUTHENTIC INDIAN, MEDITERRANEAN, MIDDLE EASTERN & VEGETARIAN cuisine including Lassis, Jal Jeera, Kanji, Chai Masala, Samosas, Pakoras, Parathas, Saag Paneer, Chana Masala, Baingan ka Bharta, Tzatziki, Chicken Tikka Masala, Chicken Curry, Saag Chicken, Homemade Falafel, Hummus, Baba Ganoush, LAMB Shish Kebabs, Gulab Jamun, Kheer, Kulfi, SHWARMAS (1,750), 13 different Pita sandwhich, LOTS of different Indian drinks. Homemade BAKALVA.
I can't wait to try their Thali's which are combos of a few things for just 5,900-c. Their Non-Vegetarian Thali has Chicken Tikka Masala, Keema Matar, Dal, Raita, Mango Chutney, Basmati Rice and Naan or Pita bread. 5900-vegetarian. Their Mediterranean Thali of 3 pieces falafel, 3 shish kababs, hummus, tzasiki, tabula, pita bread – 7,900-c. Their Vegetarian Thali is just 5,900-c.
This is a GREAT place for VEGETARIANS including VEGETARIAN BURGER topped with spinach (2400-3500-c).
Robbie said it’s a really nice space, there is garden seating for 40 out back and a large upstairs that would be great for a special event.
PRICES: Range from 1400-7900-c (averaging about 3,000-c).
They also sell some of their BASMATI RICE, SPICES like homemade GARA MASALA, Cardomon seeds and ground, and YOGURT, CHICKPEA FLOUR+. LARGE RESTAURANT (40 in garden). NEW RESTAURANT ’08. No bar. CREDIT CARDS (all). CATERING. WIFI. HOURS: Mon.-Thurs. 11am-8:30pm, Fri. & Sat. 11am-9:30pm-ish, Sun. 11:30am-8:30pm.
OWNERS: Say “Hola” from Vicki to Indian Sunny & his CR wife Nohemy Neil.
Monday, February 25, 2008
FINDS - BEN and JERRY'S ICE CREAM NOW in Costa Rica
BEN & JERRY'S SIGHTING!!!
I JUST came home from AutoMercado in Escazu (San Rafael) with Todd & Wally from Hotel Bula Bula in Playa Grande (www.HotelBulaBula.com) & there in the ice cream / helado section was BEN & JERRY'S ICE CREAM - Chunky Monkey, Cherry's Garcia and a few others!!!
Now for the fun part - 4,355 COLONES for a PINT (that's about $8.71!!)!!
(for now I'll stick to my mushed bananas, toasted walnuts and chunks of chocolate folded into my softened Delactamy vanilla "ice cream" (the semi lactose free one) & other tasty things I'm concocting including the Pillsbury Slice and Bake chocolate chip cookie dough one I'm making tonight!!). You can check out some of my other "recipes" at:
http://livinglifeincostarica.blogspot.com/2007/11/improvise-how-to-work-with-wha\
t.html
I JUST came home from AutoMercado in Escazu (San Rafael) with Todd & Wally from Hotel Bula Bula in Playa Grande (www.HotelBulaBula.com) & there in the ice cream / helado section was BEN & JERRY'S ICE CREAM - Chunky Monkey, Cherry's Garcia and a few others!!!
Now for the fun part - 4,355 COLONES for a PINT (that's about $8.71!!)!!
(for now I'll stick to my mushed bananas, toasted walnuts and chunks of chocolate folded into my softened Delactamy vanilla "ice cream" (the semi lactose free one) & other tasty things I'm concocting including the Pillsbury Slice and Bake chocolate chip cookie dough one I'm making tonight!!). You can check out some of my other "recipes" at:
http://livinglifeincostarica.blogspot.com/2007/11/improvise-how-to-work-with-wha\
t.html
Saturday, February 23, 2008
Friday, February 22, 2008
LISTS - MEDICAL EQUIPMENT RENTAL AND SALES
MEDICAL EQUIPMENT RENTAL AND SALES
including Oxygen Tanks and MORE!!
HOGARY SALUD SUTIENDA MEDICA
http://www.HogarySaludSutiendaMedica.com
Escazu (San Rafael) (289-6926) - diagonal to PeriMercado
Alajuela (430-7008) - 325 mts. South of De Llobet
Cartago (553-1010) - 150 mts. West of Banco Credito Agricola de Cartago
Desamparados (219-6593) - in front of Colegio Monsenor Odio
Heredia (260-6114) - 300 mts West of la Chicharronera - past la Casi ta de chicharon
Moravia (236-0306) - in front of MegaSuper
San Carlos (461-2533) - edificio Victoria
SJ - Paseo Colon (256-1133) - in front of Hyundai
RENTA EQUIPO MEDICO MONTES DE OCA
http://www.EquipoMontesDeOca.com / salud@EquipoMontesDeOca.com
Curridabat (280-2728) - 100 E. MultiPlaza-Este - Contigo Perimercdos
Guadalupe (224-6046) - CONTACT: Ignacio - speaks English
San Jose-downtown (222-4225 / 222-2726) - Calle 2 and Avenida 12-14)
MISC. SMALLER ONES:
ESCAZU (Centro) - Equipos Medicos (289-5410 / 386-9991 / 352-9871) - CONTACT: Albe Amador Morales - speak English
PAVAS - EQUIPOS DE HOSPITAL LTDA (232-1720)
TRES RIOS - Praxair (216-6060) - Samradis speaks English.
SJ - Centro de Rehabilitacion
TIBAS - ORTOMEDICA S.A. (235-9453)
Alexis Rojas (259-3842) - I believe he privately rents wheelchairs (tell him Monic sent you)
including Oxygen Tanks and MORE!!
HOGARY SALUD SUTIENDA MEDICA
http://www.HogarySaludSutiendaMedica.com
Escazu (San Rafael) (289-6926) - diagonal to PeriMercado
Alajuela (430-7008) - 325 mts. South of De Llobet
Cartago (553-1010) - 150 mts. West of Banco Credito Agricola de Cartago
Desamparados (219-6593) - in front of Colegio Monsenor Odio
Heredia (260-6114) - 300 mts West of la Chicharronera - past la Casi ta de chicharon
Moravia (236-0306) - in front of MegaSuper
San Carlos (461-2533) - edificio Victoria
SJ - Paseo Colon (256-1133) - in front of Hyundai
RENTA EQUIPO MEDICO MONTES DE OCA
http://www.EquipoMontesDeOca.com / salud@EquipoMontesDeOca.com
Curridabat (280-2728) - 100 E. MultiPlaza-Este - Contigo Perimercdos
Guadalupe (224-6046) - CONTACT: Ignacio - speaks English
San Jose-downtown (222-4225 / 222-2726) - Calle 2 and Avenida 12-14)
MISC. SMALLER ONES:
ESCAZU (Centro) - Equipos Medicos (289-5410 / 386-9991 / 352-9871) - CONTACT: Albe Amador Morales - speak English
PAVAS - EQUIPOS DE HOSPITAL LTDA (232-1720)
TRES RIOS - Praxair (216-6060) - Samradis speaks English.
SJ - Centro de Rehabilitacion
TIBAS - ORTOMEDICA S.A. (235-9453)
Alexis Rojas (259-3842) - I believe he privately rents wheelchairs (tell him Monic sent you)
Wednesday, February 20, 2008
LIVING IN CR - EASE TIP - FINDING OUT WHAT TV SHOWS ARE ON AND WHEN IN COSTA RICA
Want to find out what shows are on your tv here in Costa RIca?
First go to http://www.TVGuide.com/listings/setup/localizeInt.aspx?Country=Costa+Rica
Then click on to whatever area/provider you have.
When you click there, you can create Favorite Channels by going to the red button marked Set Custom View (I found it best to make a list of the channels and call letters I liked before doing this).
This will show you the CR channels.
Since the major network channels (ABC, CBS, NBC, CNN, Fox News) come from a DIFFERENT U.S. city, Go to Edit Location, then to the city your network feed comes from (my Amnet in Escazu I believe is Denver Metro) and then they asked for a zip code in that city (I input 80220. E- me if you need a zip code in a city and can not find one).
I was able to create a Favorite Channels in that area also. Keep in mind when there is no Daylight Savings TIme in the States, all shows are an hour BEHIND the time here.
Do not have internet access easily? La Nacion newspaper's Sunday issue has a television guide in it.
First go to http://www.TVGuide.com/listings/setup/localizeInt.aspx?Country=Costa+Rica
Then click on to whatever area/provider you have.
When you click there, you can create Favorite Channels by going to the red button marked Set Custom View (I found it best to make a list of the channels and call letters I liked before doing this).
This will show you the CR channels.
Since the major network channels (ABC, CBS, NBC, CNN, Fox News) come from a DIFFERENT U.S. city, Go to Edit Location, then to the city your network feed comes from (my Amnet in Escazu I believe is Denver Metro) and then they asked for a zip code in that city (I input 80220. E- me if you need a zip code in a city and can not find one).
I was able to create a Favorite Channels in that area also. Keep in mind when there is no Daylight Savings TIme in the States, all shows are an hour BEHIND the time here.
Do not have internet access easily? La Nacion newspaper's Sunday issue has a television guide in it.
VICKI'S FAVORITE RESTAURANTS (in the Central Valley)
GRINGO FOOD LIKE MEATLOAF (PLUS RIBS AND GUACAMOLE!!)
Rock & Roll Pollo for the BEST, juiciest and tastiest b'bque RIBS and Guacamole (that I have found outside of Mexico) and other yummy gringo food.
HANDS DOWN one of my FAVORITE restaurants in Costa Rica is ROCK and ROLL POLLO RESTAURANT and SPORTS BAR in Santa Ana (on the West side of the Central Valley)!!!! Rock and Roll Poll is a GREAT place for that GRINGO fix!! The owners (Bill & Lizette) both speak English though the waitresses are limited in their English.
They have a BIG menu FILLED with YUMMMM TASTY Americana as well as Tico food and LOTS of other scrumptious goodies!!!
They have LOTS of BREAKFAST selections with everything from a typical American breakfast like REALLY tasty Eggs Benedict, french toast, bacon, sausage, ham & eggs, pancakes, eggs, omeletes to typical Tico breakfasts for decent prices! You can get breakfast any time of the day or night!
The BEST guacamole I’ve EVER had is here (and my other biz is in Mexico!!)!
Their RIBS are the BEST I have found in CR, nice and just fatty enough to be REALLY juicy with a VERY TASTY barbebque sauce (of course, I HAVE to have EXTRA sauce). I always get Fried Yucca instead of fries (I like mine with pulbo de ajo/garlic powdered). Around 4,000 colones for the medium size, 4550 colones grande (easily for 2) and they also have an Appetizer side that is 3 pieces for around 1,800 colones which is often just fine for me!!
Their Meatloaf is YUMMMMM (and I don’t even like meatloaf but ya know, sometimes you just HAVE to have that Americana comfort food) with REAL mushed potatoes for around 1650-c!
TongueGasmic seafood soup!
REALLY GOOD/tender Coffee Wood Roasted Chicken.
Pizza.
Tasty USDA Skirt Steaks (I think it’s around 6,000-c).
Daily Specials
Seafood
DESSERTS include - Apple Pie a l mode and their TONGUEGASMIC HOT BROWNIE a la mode (if memory serves me [on good days] they have nuts in them!!!) - YUMMM!!!!
Rock and Roll Pollo is a GREAT place to celebrate the Gringo holidays like St. Patty's Day for Corned Beef & Cabbage-March 17, U.S. Thanksgiving, Halloween Costume Party, Xmas Eve and Day, New Years Eve, New Years Day!!! They are ONLY closed the Thurs., Fri. Sat. of Samana Santa (before Easter since NO ONE can sell liquor then) & Election Day Weekend. RESERVE THE KEY HOLIDAYS IN ADVANCE!!
They’re a FREE Wireless/WiFi Hotspot
SPORTS BAR - They have a Big Screen TV and a BUNCH of other ones around the bar/restaurant with DISH Network and Direct TV Satellite to watch most of the games/matches!
YUMMMMMM!!!!
HOURS: 8am-mid. (kitchen). 10am-2am (bar)
DIRECTIONS: (20 min. SW of San Jose)
From Escazu - Going down the windy hill/Calle Viejo/the Old Road - pass El Escribo (the restaurant with LOTS of people dancing at night on the left!) - about 300 mts. West (200 mts after you’re on the flatland, 200 mts West of Plaza Intigua [they have a day spa]) . If you hit Ceviche del Rey (300 meters - where the road splits into one-ways) - you’ve gone too far.
From Santa Ana - 1km East of Cruz Roja - about 300 meters after the street merges from being a one way (East-bound) to both ways.
OFF THE PISTA/HIGHWAY: Get off at the Santa Ana/Airport Exit. Turn Left/South at the exit/light. At the end of the road (where the Red Cross/Cruz Rojo is) turn Left onto the second street (a one-way street heading Left/East) passing through Santa Ana Centro, 1km past the Cruz Roja.
Sharing their parking lot is a little store called Mimbres selling wicker furniture.
The sign is pretty small with a BIG YELLOW Imperial sign on top.
(I'm giving ALL these details because it's quite easy to pass it by).
If ya get lost - call the restaurant - 282-9613 (tell them Vicki sent ya!!)
RIBS (AND GRINGO FOOD LIKE MEATLOAF PLUS GUACAMOLE!!)
HANDS DOWN one of my FAVORITE restaurants in Costa Rica is ROCK and ROLL POLLO RESTAURANT and SPORTS BAR in Santa Ana (on the West side of the Central Valley)!!!! (see "Gringo Food")
DESSERTS / PIES
La Cocina de Robin's TONGUEGASMIC Passion Fruit PIE (available at AutoMercado) and also Pecan Pie - available in her own cafe in Escazu Centro in March!! HANDS DOWN!! Some of the YUMMIEST sweet morsels I’ve had (especially here in Costa Rica!!)
LA COCINA DE ROBIN - ROBIN’S KITCHEN - My FAVS with Robin are her PIES!! ESPECIALLY her TongueGasmic Passionfruit Pie (kinda-sorta like Key Lime but smoother) & her Pecan Pie is the BEST I’ve EVER had (most I’ve found in the past were sicky sweet where you could almost cut the sugar but her’s were not overpoweringly sweet at all!! YUMMMM!!)!! Also Coffee Toffee (Chocolate cookie crust and mocha mousse filling piled with chocolate or coffee flavored whipped cream), Macadamia, French Apple & regular Apple & Pumpkin! She also does CAKES - everything from traditional flavors to Lemon Cake (lemon as we know it in the States), Dark Spice Cake, Carrot, Italian Creme (with a spongy coconut & macadamia white cake & a cream cheese icing!!),REALLY FUN decorated Birthday Cakes, Coffee Cake, beautiful Wedding & Grooms Cakes, Muffins, Cinnamon Rolls, Quiches, Brownies, Cookies (she can even do Peanut Butter Cookies!! I’m waiting to try those!), Cheesecake! MUFFINS - Banana Macadamia, Carrot Pineapple, Lemon Poppy Seed & Zucchini Raisin! CINNAMON ROLLS with Raisins, Macadamia or Pecan!
COOKIES like Chocolate Chip, Oatmeal Raisin, Butterscotch Macadamia & Ginger (a FULL lavored chew ginger cookie) (she said she could even do me some Peanut Butter!!). CHEESECAKES - Everything from the traditional (yet hard to find here) New York & other flavored ones like Cappuccino, Marbled, Chocolate Amaretto & Orange. BROWNIES - Traditional, with Macadamias or Pecans!
For HOLIDAYS she does Pumpkin Pie, (reserve/buy early as I’m sure she sells out early!!)????
I think she can be open to Special Requests as well!!???? WHERE TO FIND: She’s going to be opening a “Store” in Escazu Centro - HOPEFULLY by Christmas!!!!!
Also - a limited variety can be found at: Auto Mercado, Hipermas, Mas x Menos, Sarettos, PriceSmart (pecan), Del Rey Hotel (Pecan Pie), Marriott Courtyard (Cheesecake, Brownies, Chocolate Cake & Dutch Apple Pie).???? Want to order something? IDEALLY give her 2 days advance so it’s nice & fresh!! Help spread the word about Robin’s Kitchen’s TASTY desserts by sharing her info with restaurants & stores hat you frequent in the Central Valley! HOURS: Mon.-Fri. 7am-3pm, Sat. by arrangement . CONTACT INFO: Robin Emigh - 382-4412-Robin / 289-5152-in Spanish only / CocinaDeRobin@ hotmail. com (tell her Vicki referred ya!) (coming soon - www.LaCocinaDeRobin.com)
Azucar for Sweets/DESSERTS and HUGE Sandwiches.
Azucar Grill & Bakery - NOW LOCATED in Santa Ana and a full on restaurant - 2 blocks/200 meters before/East of the Red Cross/Cruz Rojo, on the LEFT side of the road heading Westbound (towards Piedades/Ciudad Colon) (282-9210 / www.AzucarCR.com / azucarcostarica@yahoo.com) - Whatever meal you have at Azucar, it's going to be TASTY!!! Their BAKERY includes MANY YUMMMMY DESSERTS including pastries from Argentina, PIES, including one that's merange with a caramel drizzle!!! MEGA YUMMMMM!! They also have a YUMMMM mixed bread that is the BEST BREAD I've EVER eaten! Their specialities for Dinner are their own - homegrown and naturally fed U.S.-style tender TASTY STEAKS that they raise here (albe them MUCHO $$ - $1.50/ounce and they'll cut it BIG if you don't watch/be specific!!!). You can also buy the fresh beef in MANY different cuts to take home. It's part of their “PRIVATE STOCK” company - www.azucarcr.com/about_private_stock / PrivateStockCR@yahoo.com / 289-3543). They're famous for their hearty gringo and Tico-style BREAKFASTS include French Toast & Omelets range from $5-$7. Lunch offers HUGE SANDWICHES (it's like they take the loaf of bread & cut it the other way! ) including REAL PHILLY CHEESESTEAKS and range from $3-$8 and they have EXECUTIVE LUNCH SPECIALS!! SALADS include CEASAR. Check out FUN FRIDAYS! KIDS MENU. WiFi. HOURS: Mon., Wed. & Thurs. 8am-10pm. Fri. & Sat. 8am-11pm. Sun. 11am-5pm (closed Tues.). Say "Hola from Vicki" to OWNERS Barbara & Dean Jupiter!
CHEZ CHRISTOPHE PASTELERIA PANADERIA FRANCESA
Chez Christophe Pasteleria Panaderia Francesa –VERY tasty French pastries!
San Rafael (228-2512) –75 mts. Sur/south of Paco Plaza. HOURS: Tues.-Sat. 7am-7pm, Sun. 8am-6pm.
Curridabat 224-1773) – 50 mts. Oeste/west of Pops. HOURS: Tues.-Sat. 8am-9pm, Sun. 10am-9pm.
TYPICO TICO FOOD
La Casona de Laly in Centro Escazu for the BEST AND CHEAPEST Tico dishes and REALLY TASTY Ceviche!
LA CASONA DE LALY ESQYUBA - Escazu (Centro) (288-5807) - 200 meters north of the church/Musmany on a corner inside an adobe house with a cool interior (and big aquarium) - CONSISTANTLY HANDS DOWN THE BEST TICO RESTAURANT I’VE FOUND!!! They have a BIG menu ranging from Bocas starting at 880-c to 4,000 (averaging 1100-1500-c). Casadas 1,500-2,000. Recently I treated a friend for her birthday (big spender me!!!) & she had one beer, I had a club soda, we split an order of YUMMMM ceviche and one of patagonias, I had the casada with chicken (rice, rice, beans, salad, platano!!) and she had the chile relleno PLUS they gave her a nice size piece of b'day cake!! $14!!!!!!!!!!!! I LOVE THIS PLACE!!! AND the food is QUITE TASTY!!! HOURS: Tues.-Sun. 11am-MID.
VEGETARIAN
Vegetariano y Cafeteria (near the Shell gas station) for CHEAP & TASTY vegetarian dishes.
Restaurante Vegetariano y Cafeteria (289-4695) – San Rafael de Escazu - Some REALLY TASTY unique things that you would SWEAR had meat in it!! I ESPECIALLY LOVE #29 - Romalacha/beets that seem like sausages!! YUMMMM!! They also DELIVER! HOURS: Mon.-Sat. 10am- 7:30pm (CLOSED on Sun). DIRECTIONS: Just before the Bomba Shell (Shell Gas station) - on that side street at the store that sells the rock things - before/North of the Scotia Bank Split.
GOOD FOOD
Time Out Tavern for REALLY TASTY QUALITY food and REALLY GOOD BURGERS!
Time Out Tavern & Deli & Sports Bar – San Rafael de Escazu (289-3217 / 336-3058 / DodgingPotholes@yahoo.com / www.TheSandwichGuys.com) – on Country Club Road (off Calle Vieja) - 300 meters South of the Costa Rica Country Club on the Left hand side - The sign isn't up yet so look for the tan doors with the black columns and swinging saloon doors in between two dental clinics and across from Magia Verde Vivera - This bar/tavern/SPORTS BAR has REALLY TASTY FOOD – some of the BEST I’ve found in CR!!
BURGERS
Time Out Tavern for REALLY TASTY QUALITY food and REALLY GOOD CHAR-BROILED BURGERS!
Time Out Tavern & Deli & Sports Bar – San Rafael de Escazu (289-3217 / 336-3058 / DodgingPotholes@yahoo.com / www.TheSandwichGuys.com) – on Country Club Road (off Calle Vieja) - 300 meters South of the Costa Rica Country Club on the Left hand side - The sign isn't up yet so look for the tan doors with the black columns and swinging saloon doors in between two dental clinics and across from Magia Verde Vivera - This bar/tavern/SPORTS BAR has REALLY TASTY FOOD – some of the BEST I’ve found in CR!!
HANDS DOWN one of my FAVORITE restaurants in Costa Rica is ROCK and ROLL POLLO RESTAURANT and SPORTS BAR in Santa Ana (on the West side of the Central Valley)!!!! (see "Gringo Food")
FISH AND CHIPS
The Pub for GREAT Fish and Chips (the "chips" make it) and their Argentinean Sunday Steaks that melt in your mouth for around 5,500-c!
THE PUB - Escazu Centro - up the Hill from the Scotia Split heading towards Escazu Centro. When you get to the place where you MUST turn Right because it turns into a one-way street (I’ve never noticed a notice that’s it’s one-way) the road curves – go RIGHT – it’s RIGHT THERE on your RIGHT (look for the green Heineken awning & "THE PUB" sign (288-3062 / www.CostaRicanLifestyles.com/thepub.html / ThePubCR@yahoo.com) - This cozy hole in the wall watering place is a BIG expat hangout though there are also quite a few Ticos here (most of which speak some English)! They have a GOOD menu with LOTS of variety (including Pub Grub & tasty wings!! www.CostaRicanLifestyles.com/thepubmenu.html ! This is a GOOD place to celebrate (hence the food) the gringo (U.S. & Canadian) holidays! St. Patty’s Day – Green Beer & certain Irish shots. NEW OWNERS: Gary & Nadine & Gary’s mom Michelle (they’re all from Modesto, Calif/Oregon and Vegas).
NIGHTLY SPECIALS: Mon. - MEATLOAF & Mashed Potatoes & Broccoli 3,200. Fri. Night & Sat. ALL Day (till they run out) - British-style FISH & CHIPS (though it’s made with talapia but their the only ones with the REAL “chips” [BIG THICK fries!!])!! The BEST I've found so far in CR - 3,200!! Sun. - Argentinian Grill - Flamed grilled!! I had a PERFECTLY cooked & seasoned STEAK for 5,400!!!! It comes with Salad, Baked Potato & Chimichurri. Range from 4,000-5,600.
HAPPY HOUR: Mon.-Thurs. 6-8pm 500-c Imperial, Pilsen, Rock Ice, Imperial Light, Pilsen 6.0, Rock Ice Lemon. 2x1 Shots on Jose Cuervo & Johnny Walker Red.
HOURS: Daily 11am-2pm. Kitchen 11am-MID!!
STEAKS
The Pub for GREAT Fish and Chips (the "chips" make it) and their Argentinean Sunday Steaks that melt in your mouth for around 5,500-c!
THE PUB - Escazu Centro - up the Hill from the Scotia Split heading towards Escazu Centro. When you get to the place where you MUST turn Right because it turns into a one-way street (I’ve never noticed a notice that’s it’s one-way) the road curves – go RIGHT – it’s RIGHT THERE on your RIGHT (look for the green Heineken awning & "THE PUB" sign (288-3062 / www.CostaRicanLifestyles.com/thepub.html / ThePubCR@yahoo.com) - This cozy hole in the wall watering place is a BIG expat hangout though there are also quite a few Ticos here (most of which speak some English)! They have a GOOD menu with LOTS of variety (including Pub Grub & tasty wings!! www.CostaRicanLifestyles.com/thepubmenu.html ! This is a GOOD place to celebrate (hence the food) the gringo (U.S. & Canadian) holidays! St. Patty’s Day – Green Beer & certain Irish shots. NEW OWNERS: Gary & Nadine & Gary’s mom Michelle (they’re all from Modesto, Calif/Oregon and Vegas).
NIGHTLY SPECIALS: Mon. - MEATLOAF & Mashed Potatoes & Broccoli 3,200. Fri. Night & Sat. ALL Day (till they run out) - British-style FISH & CHIPS (though it’s made with talapia but their the only ones with the REAL “chips” [BIG THICK fries!!])!! The BEST I've found so far in CR - 3,200!! Sun. - Argentinian Grill - Flamed grilled!! I had a PERFECTLY cooked & seasoned STEAK for 5,400!!!! It comes with Salad, Baked Potato & Chimichurri. Range from 4,000-5,600.
HAPPY HOUR: Mon.-Thurs. 6-8pm 500-c Imperial, Pilsen, Rock Ice, Imperial Light, Pilsen 6.0, Rock Ice Lemon. 2x1 Shots on Jose Cuervo & Johnny Walker Red.
HOURS: Daily 11am-2pm. Kitchen 11am-MID!!
El Novillo Alegre for their melt in your mouth Argentinean Steaks. Azucar for Sweets and HUGE sandwiches.
EL NOVILLO ALEGRE - Parrillada Argentina - (ParrillaDa@racsa.co.cr) - YUMMMMMMMMMMM!!!!! REALLY GOOD QUALITY STEAKS (& other options including tasty seafood)!! I had a steak with Port Wine – one of the BEST steaks I’ve EVER tasted & HUGE (prices are high but their portions are large). OWNER: Che. HOURS: Mon.-Sat. noon-3pm & 6:30-10:30pm, Sun. noon-9pm.
Escazu – on Calle Vieja (the old road) from Escazu heading towards San Jose – 125 mts. East and across the street from Super Soretto (288-4995)
Santa Ana - off the Pista – on the road hearding towards the airport - 200 mts. North of AutoMercado (203-4753) - I hear this location even has a playground for kids.
Curridabat - Plaza Freses diagonal to Pop’s (524-0353)
CHINESE
Chinese Rohmoser!
Chinese Rohrmoser - Rohrmoser (the last restaurant before you turn down the road leading you to Pavas Airport (291-3655) - The best Chinese restaurant I’ve found so far (not that that’s saying much). HOURS: 11am-9pm
JUICE / RAW FOODS
Organic Oasis for Juice and Raw foods (a BIG change).
ORGANIC OASIS Raw/Organic Foods & Juice Cafe-Escazu-San Rafael (377-3704 www.TheOrganicOasis.com (coming soon) - EVERYTHING is FRESH & MOSTLY Organic & Pesticide Free! NOTHING is Cooked (EVERYTHING is "Raw"). This kind of eating (Raw foods) is VERY new to me & LOTS of the things sound like REALLY weird combos/dishes (that's what I though BIG TIME when my friend Katrina introduced me to smushed bananas, papaya & avocado but YUMMMM!!!! Adding Avocado to things sooo sounds strange to me but it's bizarrely good & good for you!) but they’re ohhh so good for us (I look at it this way - though eating organic/raw/healthier is more $$$ now - BUT - doctors visits/surgery/pain is WAYYYY more $$$$ down the line!!). Some bizarre combinations but EXCITING Taste Sensations - TonGASMIC (a Katrina word)!!! I welcome you not to poo-poo it as I'm new to this form of eating & I've been SHOCKED at how tasty it is!! I'm looking forward to LOTS more new gastronomical tastes/adventures at the Organic Oasis & learning new things & the bod becoming healthier & healthier!! SAMPLES OF SPECIALS: Raw Brushetta Towers - served on zucchini rounds with a layer of Brushetta, then another zucchini round, & topped with another layer of Brushetta • RawSagna (lasagne but raw - YUMMMMM!) • Chocolate Brownies (like a chocolate cake) served with a blackberry pure - walnuts, avocado's, dates & ground organic cocoa powder. MEGA moist & YUMMMM!! JUICES - Early Bird - O.J., piña, banana-1450-c. All About Orange - orange, carrot & mandarin-1450-c. Mango on the Go - Mangos & agua de pipa-1450-c. Strawberry & Banana-1650-c. Virgin Mary - organic tomatoes, celery & carrot with spices-2100-c. Energizer - agua de pipa, ginger & piña-1800-c. "MILK SHAKES" - Almond - one chocolate & banana & almond milk-2500-c. Vanilla - with vanilla beans, banana, cinnamon & almond milk-2800-c. GREEN SALADS - New Age Spinach - organic spinach tossed with strawberries, crumbled walnuts & topped with homemade strawberry vinaigrette & sesame seeds-3145-c. Vegan Caprese - sliced avocado, tomato, hearts of palm served with homemade Pesto sauce-2895-c. Organic Oasis - red & green leave lettuce, spinach, sliced tomatoes, celery, hearts of palm, red peppers, cucumber, avocado, shredded carrot, cabbage & onions topped with either olive oil, cilantro, sea salt or pepper (or you pick!)-3745-c (ALL BIGGER). FRUIT SALADS - Tropical Delight - papaya, mango, blackberry, piña, banana topped with shaved coconut & cinnamon 2235-c. Rainbow (the ultimate fruit salad - whatever they have) topped with Special Topping - Walnuts, sesame seeds, raisins, coconut & a little cinnamon (ground together like a powder)-2565-c. WHEATGRASS (sorry - they're out of stock till next week as someone came in yesterday & cleaned them out of it!)-1oz 750-c, 2oz 1250-c. ORGANIC PIPAS-400-c green, 500-c yellow. You can buy the JUICES to go in 1/2 gallon or gallon sizes. SOON they're going to be making "On the Go" type raw/dehydrated goodies like Trail Mix, Fruits, Crackers, Cookies. In time organic Sorbets (once they get $$ a freezer). They also carry Natural Personal soaps & soon - natural dishwashing liquid. They're also available for CATERING (be it for 1 or 100+!). They'll be having DAILY SPECIALS!!! To get on their email blitz list to find out what their specials are - email - SeverinStone@ hotmail.
MISSION STATEMENT: "Our mission here at The Organic Oasis is simply to bring you the Freshest, Most Natural & Healthiest products possible! We only use All Natural Vegan, Raw & Living Products in every part of our business. We will spare NO expense to fulfill this promise to you as our customer."
HOURS: Currently - Tues.-Sun. 6am-6pm (closed Mon. [but if you're wanting a BIG order for something special & give them notice, I'm sure they'll accommodate ya'll as they're REALLY service oriented!!)
OWNERS: Severin & his wife Christina & his cousin Mason is helpin' out. DIRECTIONS: ESCAZU-CENTRO: Going up the hill from the Scotia Split/"Y" - veer Right towards Centro. Past the "Pub" & it's also on the Right just BEFORE the Pub.
ROMANTIC / AMBIANCE
Le Monastere for Romantic/ambience!
LE MONASTERE (289-4404 / 228-8515 / www.monastere-restaurant.com / RestaurantLeMonastere@gmail.com) - Monte Las Palomas, Escazu (San Rafael) – WAYYYY up the hill from Paco Plaza. Follow the green cross. Set wayyyy at the top of the mountain in a former monestary Le Monastere I think is one of the most ROMANTIC restaurants with SPECTACULAR views I’ve found in CR so far!! GREAT for ambiance!!! INTERNATIONAL cuisine. Prices vary on how much you’re ordering as everything is ala carte but if you’re not having all the separate side like soup or salad & not drinking or having desserts – it’s VERY reasonably priced (of course – not if you’re ordering a lot from the menu which is al la carte) – especially for the setting!! What I ordered my last time - Soda 525, CEASAR SALAD 2,495, Lomito a la Pimienta 6,896, Crema de Mariscos/Seafood Soup 2,895, Orden de Anchoas 2,250. They have CAVIAR, FOIE GRAS, homemade DUCK PATE with Cognac & Hazelnuts (yummmm!!), LOBSTER BISQUE, LOBSTER THERMIDOR, LEG OF LAMB, VEAL STEW, WILD BOAR STEW WITH TRUFFLES, FRENCH ONION SOUP, FROGS LEGS. Desserts – CRÈME BRULEE!!! They have three separate areas to enjoy – one - the restaurants where waiters assist you dressed as monks, one a romantic bar with magnificent panoramic views of the Central Valley & LIVE MUSIC from a grand piano & the Cava (cave) – an intimate celler for drinks or more dining with a more casual menú & LIVE MUSIC Thurs., Fri. & Sat. nights in the Cava. HOLIDAYS: Christmas Eve, New Years Eve. Make sure to stroll the grounds & the chapel (which is still used for weddings & some religious ceremonies) while you’re waiting for your meal or after! HOURS: Mon.-Sat. 6:30pm-mid. Closed Sun., Dec. 25, Jan. 1. Maria Dolores
ASIAN, THAI, DIM SUM, INDIAN++
Super Sony Asian Market in SJ when I am craving ethnic dishes - especially Asian and Indian and the largest selection of Dim Sum and also frozen Vegetarian items I have found ANYWHERE!!
SUPER SONY (221-1263 / www.SuperSony.com / sschangl@racsa.co.cr)
It's predominately a store for ORIENTAL PRODUCTS (Thailand, China, Thaiwan, Japan [the most expensive products. See if they have non-Japanese products to save some $$], as well as some Middle Eastern goodies.
They're run by a SOOOOO SWEET Taiwanese family (the Chang's - mom is Elena & just a doll) & their adult "kids" speak GREAT English (make sure to get Carolina to help you & give her a BIG HUG from Vicki)!!!
They have BY FAR the LARGEST VEGETARIAN selections I’ve EVER seen in my LIFE!! This is a mecca for Tofu & other delights. Baked tofu, Korean style veggie tamales, tofu dogs, tofu chicken, tofu shrimp & crab, bistek, fresh kimchee (HOT), & other "strange things" that will entertain your pallet. Bring a cooler if you plan to by frozen stuff (they have LOTS of options) but its OUTSIDE in the front deep freezer (per mrlee).
They provide MANY products to various stores like AutoMercado, hotels & other businesses (which to me translates to those same products probably being cheaper at Super Sony!!).
My NEW FAVORITE items that are just YUMMMM!!! ZerGut - Lutenica Chunky Relish (a TongueGasmic chili dulce spread!! EVERYONE that's tried it has gone WILD over this!! [& I have MANY friends from San Francisco/NY areas that KNOW GOOD FOOD that have agreed!!!]) - 2,100 colones. Mamoaraga (an eggplant spread [more roasted]) - 1950 colones. Russian Style Ikra Eggplant Spread - 1850 colones. Alwadi Gourmet Hummus (chick pea dip) - 1500 colones
HOURS: Mon.-Fri. 8am-7:30pm, Sat. 8am-7pm, Sun. 9am-5pm
DIRECTIONS: Downtown/Centro San Jose - Calle 3, between Ave 8 y 10-Downtown (4 blocks Sud Plaza de la Culltura/National Theatre) HOURS: Mon.-Fri. 8am-7:30pm, Sat. 8am-7pm, Sun. 9am-5pm
SALADS
Wall Street for the largest Salad menu I have found in CR.
Wall Street Restaurant, Bar & Deli (289-5101-Express in English / 289-6440 / 288-0069 / 398-0758 SolomonHane@hotmail.com) - San Rafael – 600 mts oeste/west of Mas x Menos. Also – “De Fuerza y Luz 150 mts. Oeste, contigo a Pintura Sur. & there’s also one in Pozos de Santa Ana (off the Pista on the road heading towards the Airport) - Deli, the BIGGEST SALAD menu I’ve seen (I LOVE their Santa Fe Salad!), FULL/LARGE Menu, good burgers, sandwiches (though they’re on the smaller side), many SOUP selections, DESSERTS (including NY Cheesecake). DELIVERY. HOURS: 10am-10pm
SANDWICHES
Azucar for Sweets/DESSERTS and HUGE Sandwiches.
Azucar Grill & Bakery - NOW LOCATED in Santa Ana and a full on restaurant - 2 blocks/200 meters before/East of the Red Cross/Cruz Rojo, on the LEFT side of the road heading Westbound (towards Piedades/Ciudad Colon) (282-9210 / www.AzucarCR.com / azucarcostarica@yahoo.com) - Whatever meal you have at Azucar, it's going to be TASTY!!! Their BAKERY includes MANY YUMMMMY DESSERTS including pastries from Argentina, PIES, including one that's merange with a caramel drizzle!!! MEGA YUMMMMM!! They also have a YUMMMM mixed bread that is the BEST BREAD I've EVER eaten! Their specialities for Dinner are their own - homegrown and naturally fed U.S.-style tender TASTY STEAKS that they raise here (albe them MUCHO $$ - $1.50/ounce and they'll cut it BIG if you don't watch/be specific!!!). You can also buy the fresh beef in MANY different cuts to take home. It's part of their “PRIVATE STOCK” company - www.azucarcr.com/about_private_stock / PrivateStockCR@yahoo.com / 289-3543). They're famous for their hearty gringo and Tico-style BREAKFASTS include French Toast & Omelets range from $5-$7. Lunch offers HUGE SANDWICHES (it's like they take the loaf of bread & cut it the other way! ) including REAL PHILLY CHEESESTEAKS and range from $3-$8 and they have EXECUTIVE LUNCH SPECIALS!! SALADS include CEASAR. Check out FUN FRIDAYS! KIDS MENU. WiFi. HOURS: Mon., Wed. & Thurs. 8am-10pm. Fri. & Sat. 8am-11pm. Sun. 11am-5pm (closed Tues.). Say "Hola from Vicki" to OWNERS Barbara & Dean Jupiter!
Rock & Roll Pollo for the BEST, juiciest and tastiest b'bque RIBS and Guacamole (that I have found outside of Mexico) and other yummy gringo food.
HANDS DOWN one of my FAVORITE restaurants in Costa Rica is ROCK and ROLL POLLO RESTAURANT and SPORTS BAR in Santa Ana (on the West side of the Central Valley)!!!! Rock and Roll Poll is a GREAT place for that GRINGO fix!! The owners (Bill & Lizette) both speak English though the waitresses are limited in their English.
They have a BIG menu FILLED with YUMMMM TASTY Americana as well as Tico food and LOTS of other scrumptious goodies!!!
They have LOTS of BREAKFAST selections with everything from a typical American breakfast like REALLY tasty Eggs Benedict, french toast, bacon, sausage, ham & eggs, pancakes, eggs, omeletes to typical Tico breakfasts for decent prices! You can get breakfast any time of the day or night!
The BEST guacamole I’ve EVER had is here (and my other biz is in Mexico!!)!
Their RIBS are the BEST I have found in CR, nice and just fatty enough to be REALLY juicy with a VERY TASTY barbebque sauce (of course, I HAVE to have EXTRA sauce). I always get Fried Yucca instead of fries (I like mine with pulbo de ajo/garlic powdered). Around 4,000 colones for the medium size, 4550 colones grande (easily for 2) and they also have an Appetizer side that is 3 pieces for around 1,800 colones which is often just fine for me!!
Their Meatloaf is YUMMMMM (and I don’t even like meatloaf but ya know, sometimes you just HAVE to have that Americana comfort food) with REAL mushed potatoes for around 1650-c!
TongueGasmic seafood soup!
REALLY GOOD/tender Coffee Wood Roasted Chicken.
Pizza.
Tasty USDA Skirt Steaks (I think it’s around 6,000-c).
Daily Specials
Seafood
DESSERTS include - Apple Pie a l mode and their TONGUEGASMIC HOT BROWNIE a la mode (if memory serves me [on good days] they have nuts in them!!!) - YUMMM!!!!
Rock and Roll Pollo is a GREAT place to celebrate the Gringo holidays like St. Patty's Day for Corned Beef & Cabbage-March 17, U.S. Thanksgiving, Halloween Costume Party, Xmas Eve and Day, New Years Eve, New Years Day!!! They are ONLY closed the Thurs., Fri. Sat. of Samana Santa (before Easter since NO ONE can sell liquor then) & Election Day Weekend. RESERVE THE KEY HOLIDAYS IN ADVANCE!!
They’re a FREE Wireless/WiFi Hotspot
SPORTS BAR - They have a Big Screen TV and a BUNCH of other ones around the bar/restaurant with DISH Network and Direct TV Satellite to watch most of the games/matches!
YUMMMMMM!!!!
HOURS: 8am-mid. (kitchen). 10am-2am (bar)
DIRECTIONS: (20 min. SW of San Jose)
From Escazu - Going down the windy hill/Calle Viejo/the Old Road - pass El Escribo (the restaurant with LOTS of people dancing at night on the left!) - about 300 mts. West (200 mts after you’re on the flatland, 200 mts West of Plaza Intigua [they have a day spa]) . If you hit Ceviche del Rey (300 meters - where the road splits into one-ways) - you’ve gone too far.
From Santa Ana - 1km East of Cruz Roja - about 300 meters after the street merges from being a one way (East-bound) to both ways.
OFF THE PISTA/HIGHWAY: Get off at the Santa Ana/Airport Exit. Turn Left/South at the exit/light. At the end of the road (where the Red Cross/Cruz Rojo is) turn Left onto the second street (a one-way street heading Left/East) passing through Santa Ana Centro, 1km past the Cruz Roja.
Sharing their parking lot is a little store called Mimbres selling wicker furniture.
The sign is pretty small with a BIG YELLOW Imperial sign on top.
(I'm giving ALL these details because it's quite easy to pass it by).
If ya get lost - call the restaurant - 282-9613 (tell them Vicki sent ya!!)
RIBS (AND GRINGO FOOD LIKE MEATLOAF PLUS GUACAMOLE!!)
HANDS DOWN one of my FAVORITE restaurants in Costa Rica is ROCK and ROLL POLLO RESTAURANT and SPORTS BAR in Santa Ana (on the West side of the Central Valley)!!!! (see "Gringo Food")
DESSERTS / PIES
La Cocina de Robin's TONGUEGASMIC Passion Fruit PIE (available at AutoMercado) and also Pecan Pie - available in her own cafe in Escazu Centro in March!! HANDS DOWN!! Some of the YUMMIEST sweet morsels I’ve had (especially here in Costa Rica!!)
LA COCINA DE ROBIN - ROBIN’S KITCHEN - My FAVS with Robin are her PIES!! ESPECIALLY her TongueGasmic Passionfruit Pie (kinda-sorta like Key Lime but smoother) & her Pecan Pie is the BEST I’ve EVER had (most I’ve found in the past were sicky sweet where you could almost cut the sugar but her’s were not overpoweringly sweet at all!! YUMMMM!!)!! Also Coffee Toffee (Chocolate cookie crust and mocha mousse filling piled with chocolate or coffee flavored whipped cream), Macadamia, French Apple & regular Apple & Pumpkin! She also does CAKES - everything from traditional flavors to Lemon Cake (lemon as we know it in the States), Dark Spice Cake, Carrot, Italian Creme (with a spongy coconut & macadamia white cake & a cream cheese icing!!),REALLY FUN decorated Birthday Cakes, Coffee Cake, beautiful Wedding & Grooms Cakes, Muffins, Cinnamon Rolls, Quiches, Brownies, Cookies (she can even do Peanut Butter Cookies!! I’m waiting to try those!), Cheesecake! MUFFINS - Banana Macadamia, Carrot Pineapple, Lemon Poppy Seed & Zucchini Raisin! CINNAMON ROLLS with Raisins, Macadamia or Pecan!
COOKIES like Chocolate Chip, Oatmeal Raisin, Butterscotch Macadamia & Ginger (a FULL lavored chew ginger cookie) (she said she could even do me some Peanut Butter!!). CHEESECAKES - Everything from the traditional (yet hard to find here) New York & other flavored ones like Cappuccino, Marbled, Chocolate Amaretto & Orange. BROWNIES - Traditional, with Macadamias or Pecans!
For HOLIDAYS she does Pumpkin Pie, (reserve/buy early as I’m sure she sells out early!!)????
I think she can be open to Special Requests as well!!???? WHERE TO FIND: She’s going to be opening a “Store” in Escazu Centro - HOPEFULLY by Christmas!!!!!
Also - a limited variety can be found at: Auto Mercado, Hipermas, Mas x Menos, Sarettos, PriceSmart (pecan), Del Rey Hotel (Pecan Pie), Marriott Courtyard (Cheesecake, Brownies, Chocolate Cake & Dutch Apple Pie).???? Want to order something? IDEALLY give her 2 days advance so it’s nice & fresh!! Help spread the word about Robin’s Kitchen’s TASTY desserts by sharing her info with restaurants & stores hat you frequent in the Central Valley! HOURS: Mon.-Fri. 7am-3pm, Sat. by arrangement . CONTACT INFO: Robin Emigh - 382-4412-Robin / 289-5152-in Spanish only / CocinaDeRobin@ hotmail. com (tell her Vicki referred ya!) (coming soon - www.LaCocinaDeRobin.com)
Azucar for Sweets/DESSERTS and HUGE Sandwiches.
Azucar Grill & Bakery - NOW LOCATED in Santa Ana and a full on restaurant - 2 blocks/200 meters before/East of the Red Cross/Cruz Rojo, on the LEFT side of the road heading Westbound (towards Piedades/Ciudad Colon) (282-9210 / www.AzucarCR.com / azucarcostarica@yahoo.com) - Whatever meal you have at Azucar, it's going to be TASTY!!! Their BAKERY includes MANY YUMMMMY DESSERTS including pastries from Argentina, PIES, including one that's merange with a caramel drizzle!!! MEGA YUMMMMM!! They also have a YUMMMM mixed bread that is the BEST BREAD I've EVER eaten! Their specialities for Dinner are their own - homegrown and naturally fed U.S.-style tender TASTY STEAKS that they raise here (albe them MUCHO $$ - $1.50/ounce and they'll cut it BIG if you don't watch/be specific!!!). You can also buy the fresh beef in MANY different cuts to take home. It's part of their “PRIVATE STOCK” company - www.azucarcr.com/about_private_stock / PrivateStockCR@yahoo.com / 289-3543). They're famous for their hearty gringo and Tico-style BREAKFASTS include French Toast & Omelets range from $5-$7. Lunch offers HUGE SANDWICHES (it's like they take the loaf of bread & cut it the other way! ) including REAL PHILLY CHEESESTEAKS and range from $3-$8 and they have EXECUTIVE LUNCH SPECIALS!! SALADS include CEASAR. Check out FUN FRIDAYS! KIDS MENU. WiFi. HOURS: Mon., Wed. & Thurs. 8am-10pm. Fri. & Sat. 8am-11pm. Sun. 11am-5pm (closed Tues.). Say "Hola from Vicki" to OWNERS Barbara & Dean Jupiter!
CHEZ CHRISTOPHE PASTELERIA PANADERIA FRANCESA
Chez Christophe Pasteleria Panaderia Francesa –VERY tasty French pastries!
San Rafael (228-2512) –75 mts. Sur/south of Paco Plaza. HOURS: Tues.-Sat. 7am-7pm, Sun. 8am-6pm.
Curridabat 224-1773) – 50 mts. Oeste/west of Pops. HOURS: Tues.-Sat. 8am-9pm, Sun. 10am-9pm.
TYPICO TICO FOOD
La Casona de Laly in Centro Escazu for the BEST AND CHEAPEST Tico dishes and REALLY TASTY Ceviche!
LA CASONA DE LALY ESQYUBA - Escazu (Centro) (288-5807) - 200 meters north of the church/Musmany on a corner inside an adobe house with a cool interior (and big aquarium) - CONSISTANTLY HANDS DOWN THE BEST TICO RESTAURANT I’VE FOUND!!! They have a BIG menu ranging from Bocas starting at 880-c to 4,000 (averaging 1100-1500-c). Casadas 1,500-2,000. Recently I treated a friend for her birthday (big spender me!!!) & she had one beer, I had a club soda, we split an order of YUMMMM ceviche and one of patagonias, I had the casada with chicken (rice, rice, beans, salad, platano!!) and she had the chile relleno PLUS they gave her a nice size piece of b'day cake!! $14!!!!!!!!!!!! I LOVE THIS PLACE!!! AND the food is QUITE TASTY!!! HOURS: Tues.-Sun. 11am-MID.
VEGETARIAN
Vegetariano y Cafeteria (near the Shell gas station) for CHEAP & TASTY vegetarian dishes.
Restaurante Vegetariano y Cafeteria (289-4695) – San Rafael de Escazu - Some REALLY TASTY unique things that you would SWEAR had meat in it!! I ESPECIALLY LOVE #29 - Romalacha/beets that seem like sausages!! YUMMMM!! They also DELIVER! HOURS: Mon.-Sat. 10am- 7:30pm (CLOSED on Sun). DIRECTIONS: Just before the Bomba Shell (Shell Gas station) - on that side street at the store that sells the rock things - before/North of the Scotia Bank Split.
GOOD FOOD
Time Out Tavern for REALLY TASTY QUALITY food and REALLY GOOD BURGERS!
Time Out Tavern & Deli & Sports Bar – San Rafael de Escazu (289-3217 / 336-3058 / DodgingPotholes@yahoo.com / www.TheSandwichGuys.com) – on Country Club Road (off Calle Vieja) - 300 meters South of the Costa Rica Country Club on the Left hand side - The sign isn't up yet so look for the tan doors with the black columns and swinging saloon doors in between two dental clinics and across from Magia Verde Vivera - This bar/tavern/SPORTS BAR has REALLY TASTY FOOD – some of the BEST I’ve found in CR!!
BURGERS
Time Out Tavern for REALLY TASTY QUALITY food and REALLY GOOD CHAR-BROILED BURGERS!
Time Out Tavern & Deli & Sports Bar – San Rafael de Escazu (289-3217 / 336-3058 / DodgingPotholes@yahoo.com / www.TheSandwichGuys.com) – on Country Club Road (off Calle Vieja) - 300 meters South of the Costa Rica Country Club on the Left hand side - The sign isn't up yet so look for the tan doors with the black columns and swinging saloon doors in between two dental clinics and across from Magia Verde Vivera - This bar/tavern/SPORTS BAR has REALLY TASTY FOOD – some of the BEST I’ve found in CR!!
HANDS DOWN one of my FAVORITE restaurants in Costa Rica is ROCK and ROLL POLLO RESTAURANT and SPORTS BAR in Santa Ana (on the West side of the Central Valley)!!!! (see "Gringo Food")
FISH AND CHIPS
The Pub for GREAT Fish and Chips (the "chips" make it) and their Argentinean Sunday Steaks that melt in your mouth for around 5,500-c!
THE PUB - Escazu Centro - up the Hill from the Scotia Split heading towards Escazu Centro. When you get to the place where you MUST turn Right because it turns into a one-way street (I’ve never noticed a notice that’s it’s one-way) the road curves – go RIGHT – it’s RIGHT THERE on your RIGHT (look for the green Heineken awning & "THE PUB" sign (288-3062 / www.CostaRicanLifestyles.com/thepub.html / ThePubCR@yahoo.com) - This cozy hole in the wall watering place is a BIG expat hangout though there are also quite a few Ticos here (most of which speak some English)! They have a GOOD menu with LOTS of variety (including Pub Grub & tasty wings!! www.CostaRicanLifestyles.com/thepubmenu.html ! This is a GOOD place to celebrate (hence the food) the gringo (U.S. & Canadian) holidays! St. Patty’s Day – Green Beer & certain Irish shots. NEW OWNERS: Gary & Nadine & Gary’s mom Michelle (they’re all from Modesto, Calif/Oregon and Vegas).
NIGHTLY SPECIALS: Mon. - MEATLOAF & Mashed Potatoes & Broccoli 3,200. Fri. Night & Sat. ALL Day (till they run out) - British-style FISH & CHIPS (though it’s made with talapia but their the only ones with the REAL “chips” [BIG THICK fries!!])!! The BEST I've found so far in CR - 3,200!! Sun. - Argentinian Grill - Flamed grilled!! I had a PERFECTLY cooked & seasoned STEAK for 5,400!!!! It comes with Salad, Baked Potato & Chimichurri. Range from 4,000-5,600.
HAPPY HOUR: Mon.-Thurs. 6-8pm 500-c Imperial, Pilsen, Rock Ice, Imperial Light, Pilsen 6.0, Rock Ice Lemon. 2x1 Shots on Jose Cuervo & Johnny Walker Red.
HOURS: Daily 11am-2pm. Kitchen 11am-MID!!
STEAKS
The Pub for GREAT Fish and Chips (the "chips" make it) and their Argentinean Sunday Steaks that melt in your mouth for around 5,500-c!
THE PUB - Escazu Centro - up the Hill from the Scotia Split heading towards Escazu Centro. When you get to the place where you MUST turn Right because it turns into a one-way street (I’ve never noticed a notice that’s it’s one-way) the road curves – go RIGHT – it’s RIGHT THERE on your RIGHT (look for the green Heineken awning & "THE PUB" sign (288-3062 / www.CostaRicanLifestyles.com/thepub.html / ThePubCR@yahoo.com) - This cozy hole in the wall watering place is a BIG expat hangout though there are also quite a few Ticos here (most of which speak some English)! They have a GOOD menu with LOTS of variety (including Pub Grub & tasty wings!! www.CostaRicanLifestyles.com/thepubmenu.html ! This is a GOOD place to celebrate (hence the food) the gringo (U.S. & Canadian) holidays! St. Patty’s Day – Green Beer & certain Irish shots. NEW OWNERS: Gary & Nadine & Gary’s mom Michelle (they’re all from Modesto, Calif/Oregon and Vegas).
NIGHTLY SPECIALS: Mon. - MEATLOAF & Mashed Potatoes & Broccoli 3,200. Fri. Night & Sat. ALL Day (till they run out) - British-style FISH & CHIPS (though it’s made with talapia but their the only ones with the REAL “chips” [BIG THICK fries!!])!! The BEST I've found so far in CR - 3,200!! Sun. - Argentinian Grill - Flamed grilled!! I had a PERFECTLY cooked & seasoned STEAK for 5,400!!!! It comes with Salad, Baked Potato & Chimichurri. Range from 4,000-5,600.
HAPPY HOUR: Mon.-Thurs. 6-8pm 500-c Imperial, Pilsen, Rock Ice, Imperial Light, Pilsen 6.0, Rock Ice Lemon. 2x1 Shots on Jose Cuervo & Johnny Walker Red.
HOURS: Daily 11am-2pm. Kitchen 11am-MID!!
El Novillo Alegre for their melt in your mouth Argentinean Steaks. Azucar for Sweets and HUGE sandwiches.
EL NOVILLO ALEGRE - Parrillada Argentina - (ParrillaDa@racsa.co.cr) - YUMMMMMMMMMMM!!!!! REALLY GOOD QUALITY STEAKS (& other options including tasty seafood)!! I had a steak with Port Wine – one of the BEST steaks I’ve EVER tasted & HUGE (prices are high but their portions are large). OWNER: Che. HOURS: Mon.-Sat. noon-3pm & 6:30-10:30pm, Sun. noon-9pm.
Escazu – on Calle Vieja (the old road) from Escazu heading towards San Jose – 125 mts. East and across the street from Super Soretto (288-4995)
Santa Ana - off the Pista – on the road hearding towards the airport - 200 mts. North of AutoMercado (203-4753) - I hear this location even has a playground for kids.
Curridabat - Plaza Freses diagonal to Pop’s (524-0353)
CHINESE
Chinese Rohmoser!
Chinese Rohrmoser - Rohrmoser (the last restaurant before you turn down the road leading you to Pavas Airport (291-3655) - The best Chinese restaurant I’ve found so far (not that that’s saying much). HOURS: 11am-9pm
JUICE / RAW FOODS
Organic Oasis for Juice and Raw foods (a BIG change).
ORGANIC OASIS Raw/Organic Foods & Juice Cafe-Escazu-San Rafael (377-3704 www.TheOrganicOasis.com (coming soon) - EVERYTHING is FRESH & MOSTLY Organic & Pesticide Free! NOTHING is Cooked (EVERYTHING is "Raw"). This kind of eating (Raw foods) is VERY new to me & LOTS of the things sound like REALLY weird combos/dishes (that's what I though BIG TIME when my friend Katrina introduced me to smushed bananas, papaya & avocado but YUMMMM!!!! Adding Avocado to things sooo sounds strange to me but it's bizarrely good & good for you!) but they’re ohhh so good for us (I look at it this way - though eating organic/raw/healthier is more $$$ now - BUT - doctors visits/surgery/pain is WAYYYY more $$$$ down the line!!). Some bizarre combinations but EXCITING Taste Sensations - TonGASMIC (a Katrina word)!!! I welcome you not to poo-poo it as I'm new to this form of eating & I've been SHOCKED at how tasty it is!! I'm looking forward to LOTS more new gastronomical tastes/adventures at the Organic Oasis & learning new things & the bod becoming healthier & healthier!! SAMPLES OF SPECIALS: Raw Brushetta Towers - served on zucchini rounds with a layer of Brushetta, then another zucchini round, & topped with another layer of Brushetta • RawSagna (lasagne but raw - YUMMMMM!) • Chocolate Brownies (like a chocolate cake) served with a blackberry pure - walnuts, avocado's, dates & ground organic cocoa powder. MEGA moist & YUMMMM!! JUICES - Early Bird - O.J., piña, banana-1450-c. All About Orange - orange, carrot & mandarin-1450-c. Mango on the Go - Mangos & agua de pipa-1450-c. Strawberry & Banana-1650-c. Virgin Mary - organic tomatoes, celery & carrot with spices-2100-c. Energizer - agua de pipa, ginger & piña-1800-c. "MILK SHAKES" - Almond - one chocolate & banana & almond milk-2500-c. Vanilla - with vanilla beans, banana, cinnamon & almond milk-2800-c. GREEN SALADS - New Age Spinach - organic spinach tossed with strawberries, crumbled walnuts & topped with homemade strawberry vinaigrette & sesame seeds-3145-c. Vegan Caprese - sliced avocado, tomato, hearts of palm served with homemade Pesto sauce-2895-c. Organic Oasis - red & green leave lettuce, spinach, sliced tomatoes, celery, hearts of palm, red peppers, cucumber, avocado, shredded carrot, cabbage & onions topped with either olive oil, cilantro, sea salt or pepper (or you pick!)-3745-c (ALL BIGGER). FRUIT SALADS - Tropical Delight - papaya, mango, blackberry, piña, banana topped with shaved coconut & cinnamon 2235-c. Rainbow (the ultimate fruit salad - whatever they have) topped with Special Topping - Walnuts, sesame seeds, raisins, coconut & a little cinnamon (ground together like a powder)-2565-c. WHEATGRASS (sorry - they're out of stock till next week as someone came in yesterday & cleaned them out of it!)-1oz 750-c, 2oz 1250-c. ORGANIC PIPAS-400-c green, 500-c yellow. You can buy the JUICES to go in 1/2 gallon or gallon sizes. SOON they're going to be making "On the Go" type raw/dehydrated goodies like Trail Mix, Fruits, Crackers, Cookies. In time organic Sorbets (once they get $$ a freezer). They also carry Natural Personal soaps & soon - natural dishwashing liquid. They're also available for CATERING (be it for 1 or 100+!). They'll be having DAILY SPECIALS!!! To get on their email blitz list to find out what their specials are - email - SeverinStone@ hotmail.
MISSION STATEMENT: "Our mission here at The Organic Oasis is simply to bring you the Freshest, Most Natural & Healthiest products possible! We only use All Natural Vegan, Raw & Living Products in every part of our business. We will spare NO expense to fulfill this promise to you as our customer."
HOURS: Currently - Tues.-Sun. 6am-6pm (closed Mon. [but if you're wanting a BIG order for something special & give them notice, I'm sure they'll accommodate ya'll as they're REALLY service oriented!!)
OWNERS: Severin & his wife Christina & his cousin Mason is helpin' out. DIRECTIONS: ESCAZU-CENTRO: Going up the hill from the Scotia Split/"Y" - veer Right towards Centro. Past the "Pub" & it's also on the Right just BEFORE the Pub.
ROMANTIC / AMBIANCE
Le Monastere for Romantic/ambience!
LE MONASTERE (289-4404 / 228-8515 / www.monastere-restaurant.com / RestaurantLeMonastere@gmail.com) - Monte Las Palomas, Escazu (San Rafael) – WAYYYY up the hill from Paco Plaza. Follow the green cross. Set wayyyy at the top of the mountain in a former monestary Le Monastere I think is one of the most ROMANTIC restaurants with SPECTACULAR views I’ve found in CR so far!! GREAT for ambiance!!! INTERNATIONAL cuisine. Prices vary on how much you’re ordering as everything is ala carte but if you’re not having all the separate side like soup or salad & not drinking or having desserts – it’s VERY reasonably priced (of course – not if you’re ordering a lot from the menu which is al la carte) – especially for the setting!! What I ordered my last time - Soda 525, CEASAR SALAD 2,495, Lomito a la Pimienta 6,896, Crema de Mariscos/Seafood Soup 2,895, Orden de Anchoas 2,250. They have CAVIAR, FOIE GRAS, homemade DUCK PATE with Cognac & Hazelnuts (yummmm!!), LOBSTER BISQUE, LOBSTER THERMIDOR, LEG OF LAMB, VEAL STEW, WILD BOAR STEW WITH TRUFFLES, FRENCH ONION SOUP, FROGS LEGS. Desserts – CRÈME BRULEE!!! They have three separate areas to enjoy – one - the restaurants where waiters assist you dressed as monks, one a romantic bar with magnificent panoramic views of the Central Valley & LIVE MUSIC from a grand piano & the Cava (cave) – an intimate celler for drinks or more dining with a more casual menú & LIVE MUSIC Thurs., Fri. & Sat. nights in the Cava. HOLIDAYS: Christmas Eve, New Years Eve. Make sure to stroll the grounds & the chapel (which is still used for weddings & some religious ceremonies) while you’re waiting for your meal or after! HOURS: Mon.-Sat. 6:30pm-mid. Closed Sun., Dec. 25, Jan. 1. Maria Dolores
ASIAN, THAI, DIM SUM, INDIAN++
Super Sony Asian Market in SJ when I am craving ethnic dishes - especially Asian and Indian and the largest selection of Dim Sum and also frozen Vegetarian items I have found ANYWHERE!!
SUPER SONY (221-1263 / www.SuperSony.com / sschangl@racsa.co.cr)
It's predominately a store for ORIENTAL PRODUCTS (Thailand, China, Thaiwan, Japan [the most expensive products. See if they have non-Japanese products to save some $$], as well as some Middle Eastern goodies.
They're run by a SOOOOO SWEET Taiwanese family (the Chang's - mom is Elena & just a doll) & their adult "kids" speak GREAT English (make sure to get Carolina to help you & give her a BIG HUG from Vicki)!!!
They have BY FAR the LARGEST VEGETARIAN selections I’ve EVER seen in my LIFE!! This is a mecca for Tofu & other delights. Baked tofu, Korean style veggie tamales, tofu dogs, tofu chicken, tofu shrimp & crab, bistek, fresh kimchee (HOT), & other "strange things" that will entertain your pallet. Bring a cooler if you plan to by frozen stuff (they have LOTS of options) but its OUTSIDE in the front deep freezer (per mrlee).
They provide MANY products to various stores like AutoMercado, hotels & other businesses (which to me translates to those same products probably being cheaper at Super Sony!!).
My NEW FAVORITE items that are just YUMMMM!!! ZerGut - Lutenica Chunky Relish (a TongueGasmic chili dulce spread!! EVERYONE that's tried it has gone WILD over this!! [& I have MANY friends from San Francisco/NY areas that KNOW GOOD FOOD that have agreed!!!]) - 2,100 colones. Mamoaraga (an eggplant spread [more roasted]) - 1950 colones. Russian Style Ikra Eggplant Spread - 1850 colones. Alwadi Gourmet Hummus (chick pea dip) - 1500 colones
HOURS: Mon.-Fri. 8am-7:30pm, Sat. 8am-7pm, Sun. 9am-5pm
DIRECTIONS: Downtown/Centro San Jose - Calle 3, between Ave 8 y 10-Downtown (4 blocks Sud Plaza de la Culltura/National Theatre) HOURS: Mon.-Fri. 8am-7:30pm, Sat. 8am-7pm, Sun. 9am-5pm
SALADS
Wall Street for the largest Salad menu I have found in CR.
Wall Street Restaurant, Bar & Deli (289-5101-Express in English / 289-6440 / 288-0069 / 398-0758 SolomonHane@hotmail.com) - San Rafael – 600 mts oeste/west of Mas x Menos. Also – “De Fuerza y Luz 150 mts. Oeste, contigo a Pintura Sur. & there’s also one in Pozos de Santa Ana (off the Pista on the road heading towards the Airport) - Deli, the BIGGEST SALAD menu I’ve seen (I LOVE their Santa Fe Salad!), FULL/LARGE Menu, good burgers, sandwiches (though they’re on the smaller side), many SOUP selections, DESSERTS (including NY Cheesecake). DELIVERY. HOURS: 10am-10pm
SANDWICHES
Azucar for Sweets/DESSERTS and HUGE Sandwiches.
Azucar Grill & Bakery - NOW LOCATED in Santa Ana and a full on restaurant - 2 blocks/200 meters before/East of the Red Cross/Cruz Rojo, on the LEFT side of the road heading Westbound (towards Piedades/Ciudad Colon) (282-9210 / www.AzucarCR.com / azucarcostarica@yahoo.com) - Whatever meal you have at Azucar, it's going to be TASTY!!! Their BAKERY includes MANY YUMMMMY DESSERTS including pastries from Argentina, PIES, including one that's merange with a caramel drizzle!!! MEGA YUMMMMM!! They also have a YUMMMM mixed bread that is the BEST BREAD I've EVER eaten! Their specialities for Dinner are their own - homegrown and naturally fed U.S.-style tender TASTY STEAKS that they raise here (albe them MUCHO $$ - $1.50/ounce and they'll cut it BIG if you don't watch/be specific!!!). You can also buy the fresh beef in MANY different cuts to take home. It's part of their “PRIVATE STOCK” company - www.azucarcr.com/about_private_stock / PrivateStockCR@yahoo.com / 289-3543). They're famous for their hearty gringo and Tico-style BREAKFASTS include French Toast & Omelets range from $5-$7. Lunch offers HUGE SANDWICHES (it's like they take the loaf of bread & cut it the other way! ) including REAL PHILLY CHEESESTEAKS and range from $3-$8 and they have EXECUTIVE LUNCH SPECIALS!! SALADS include CEASAR. Check out FUN FRIDAYS! KIDS MENU. WiFi. HOURS: Mon., Wed. & Thurs. 8am-10pm. Fri. & Sat. 8am-11pm. Sun. 11am-5pm (closed Tues.). Say "Hola from Vicki" to OWNERS Barbara & Dean Jupiter!
Sunday, February 17, 2008
PLEASE LET ME KNOW WHO YOU ARE!!
I LOVE comments, feedback and even more - MORE THINGS TO ADD/CHANGE - BUT, when you put it under "Comments" - I don't get to see who you are/your email address so I can not respond to you or THANK YOU!!
Please make sure to address anything you would like a response from to me at:
TheFountainsGuesthouseCR@gmail.com
THANX!!!
Please make sure to address anything you would like a response from to me at:
TheFountainsGuesthouseCR@gmail.com
THANX!!!
WHERE TO FIND EARTH FRIENDLY PRODUCTS in Costa Rica!!
I JUST returned from my neighborhood Mas x Menos Market and as usual, when I said "sin bolsa por favor" and I explained it was to help the environment (doing my part in walking more gently on this earth!) and pointed to my handy dandy BIG backpack and HUGE Mexican bag, she looked at me with a combination of confusion and like I was crazy - BUT, then she gave me a BIG SMILE and she PROUDLY showed me their new "PLASTIC" BAGS that are 100% BIODEGRADABLE (by http://www.EcoGreenProducts.com)!!!!!
Reading their website, it seems that Ecogreen Products are made of corn and they are biodegradable, NON-genetically modified and certified compostable!! They claim that most bags as we know them are Petroleum-based plastic and have a raw material cycle time of 150 MILLION YEARS while Ecogreen Products decompose in LESS than 150 DAYS!!!!
I am a HAPPY GIRL!!! (though I will still bring my own BIG Mexican bags when I do my marketing!!).
When they first pulled out a bag they did NOT offer me the WONDERFUL NEW bags so you may have to ask for them!!
I am not sure if they have these also at HiperMas, Perimercado and their other stores. Do you know/can you check and report back to us?
Do you know of other stores IN Costa Rica that carry products that are conscious of Mother Earth / our walking more gently on this Planet? Please share!!! E- me at CostaRicaConsciousCommunity@gmail.com
And please with your favorite store the concept and contact information for these bags or the unbleached canvas bags or BETTER YET, ask them to carry those BIG STURDY bags you use over and over (mine from Mexico [a mesh material] are at least 7 years old!!) we see people with (yet I haven't found many of other than in Winnie the Pooh and Cinderella!)
One gentler step at a time!!!
Vicki Skinner
CHECK OUT MY LATEST BLOG ON THINGS TO DO AROUND COSTA RICA:
http://www.CostaRicaEventsCalendar.blogspot.com
My MAGICAL, TRANQUIL, ULTRA CONVENIENT Guest House in Escazu
http://www.FountainsGuesthouse.com
http://www.ScienceOfMindInCostaRica.com
Reading their website, it seems that Ecogreen Products are made of corn and they are biodegradable, NON-genetically modified and certified compostable!! They claim that most bags as we know them are Petroleum-based plastic and have a raw material cycle time of 150 MILLION YEARS while Ecogreen Products decompose in LESS than 150 DAYS!!!!
I am a HAPPY GIRL!!! (though I will still bring my own BIG Mexican bags when I do my marketing!!).
When they first pulled out a bag they did NOT offer me the WONDERFUL NEW bags so you may have to ask for them!!
I am not sure if they have these also at HiperMas, Perimercado and their other stores. Do you know/can you check and report back to us?
Do you know of other stores IN Costa Rica that carry products that are conscious of Mother Earth / our walking more gently on this Planet? Please share!!! E- me at CostaRicaConsciousCommunity@gmail.com
And please with your favorite store the concept and contact information for these bags or the unbleached canvas bags or BETTER YET, ask them to carry those BIG STURDY bags you use over and over (mine from Mexico [a mesh material] are at least 7 years old!!) we see people with (yet I haven't found many of other than in Winnie the Pooh and Cinderella!)
One gentler step at a time!!!
Vicki Skinner
CHECK OUT MY LATEST BLOG ON THINGS TO DO AROUND COSTA RICA:
http://www.CostaRicaEventsCalendar.blogspot.com
My MAGICAL, TRANQUIL, ULTRA CONVENIENT Guest House in Escazu
http://www.FountainsGuesthouse.com
http://www.ScienceOfMindInCostaRica.com
Sunday, February 10, 2008
Personalized Poems for Valentines Day (or Christmas, or Birthdays, or Anniversaries - an overall GREAT GIFT idea)
This is a friend of mine in Costa Rica - Fick Bryant - that does FUN (or romantic) poems for ALL occasions PLUS he has a cute modern day Night Before Christmas book (http://Rhymes4AllTimes.com/books.html)!! A GREAT pe