VIP Movie Theatre at Nova Cinema at the Avenida Escazu Mall in Costa Rica

LATEST DETAILS ATLivingLifeInCostaRica.blogspot.com/2012/02/nova-cinemas-vip-and-imax-movie.html

The NEW VIP Experience

at the

VIP THEATRE

in

Nova Cinema

at

Avenida Escazu Mall

(JUST East of CIMA in San Rafael de Escazu in Costa Rica)

As far as I'm concerned -

Doing the VIP Theater at Nova Cinema is the

ONLY ONLY ONLY

way to see a movie!!

Once you try the VIP Theatre, it WILL be challenging to sit through a movie in any other basic movie theater!!!!

THE VIP EXPERIENCE!!! LOCATION!! LOCATION!! LOCATION!!

WHAT AN EXPERIENCE!!!!

Recently opened, this 46 seat theatre is a REAL VIP EXPERIENCE!!!! It has REAL Leather RECLINERS, LoveSeat Recliners and regular couches!! Even DURING the movie - waiters come around and serve you!!

My first experience was going to celebrate my/other Gemini Birthdays with 20 friends and acquaintances and the opening of THE HOT "Sex in the City 2!!" There could not have been a better show to break my virgin VIP Experience than with this movie as TOTAL DECADENCE IS what the WHOLE movie was about!!!

Many of us donned our funkies/finest shoes and had a BLAST!!!

HOW IT WORKS:

Go to the ticket office and order/pay for your tickets. NOTE (a hint we didn't know about) - Seats are RESERVED in this theatre so make sure you're together and if you desire a Love Seat - let them know. I believe #1 was on the most Westerly side and there were only I believe 8 rows total.

Then a staff member ESCORTS you up to the tres chic VIP LOUNGE! This is a BEAUTIFUL lounge where you can enjoy the various "snack bars" serving everything from Pannini's, Wraps, Sushi, Pizza, Nachos, CARMEL Corn Popcorn + and a bar that has wine, beer and Spirits INCLUDING Cosmopolitans, Apple Martinis and Margaritas in honor of this movie (you pay extra of course!)!! You can hang around there (if memory serves me [and it IS iffy!], it opens about 30 minutes before the start of the movie) or go inside into what feels like your own private showing with just 46 SPACIOUS, NEW, electric, LEATHER, RECLINERS and Love Seats (I swear it went into a full laying position!!) and a few Couches as well!!

While your sitting back ENJOYING, your WAITER comes and asks if he/she can SERVE YOU!!!! (this even happens unobtrusively DURING the movie!!).

I opted for the I think it was the Tuna, Mango Salsa Wrap and a Cosmopolitan (in honor of THE drink I think made most famous from the Sex in the City TV show!)!!! TASTY and I think it was around 3,400-colones or so. Quite reasonable considering the surrounds/ambience!!

This is TRULY a VIP EXPERIENCE and now that I've experienced it, I can't see going back to the old cramped movie theatres!!

It's WELL worth the few extra $$s!! Heck - I'M WORTH EVERY EXTRA PENNY of it!!! (in the states these theatres [what few there are of them. Funny - Costa Rica has 2 of them!!! The other I never got to because it was about an hour from me at the Cinepolis VIP TerraMall] are $20-$40+ DOLLARS!!)

WHAT ELSE DOES NOVA THEATRES HAVE???

They're home to Costa Rica's FIRST iMAX THEATER as well as 2 other theatres in 2D and 3D!! See my posting on that from their opening at http://LivingLifeInCostaRica.blogspot.com/2009/12/new-imax-theatre-in-escazu-san-jose.html

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BioResonance • Bach Flowers in Costa Rica with Vicky Saenz

BIORESONANCE / BACH FLOWERS

Vicky Saenz had been trying to connect with me for MONTHS to show me how her BIORESONANCE machine works but it just wasn't working out with our schedules (I don't think I was in such a rush myself because I had had BioResonance before a it did NOTHING for me).

Then one day we both FINALLY said "That's IT!! We're gonna do this!!!"

The next day my Mac died (Mac users will understand this - our Mac's are like our children - an extension of many of our bodies!) and I BEYOND PANICED (ok - more like practically flipped out and went comotose)!!!

Vicky just "happened" to call me around that time and I asked how FAST can she come over and she was here. She took Before and After shots (which I'm not publishing because I LITERALLY was pretty far gone)!!

Vicky came over and hooked me up to her computer and I don't know what she did but I SWEAR to you - from that point - to THIS DAY - over 4 months later and even though I'm going through a fair amount right now - 98% of the time when "stressers"/situations come up - I'm SOOOOO CALM (ok - as an Adrenaline Junkie - perhaps too calm for me since stress has been one of my biggest motivators in the past but I'm working on finding the balance here)!!!!!

Vicky Saenz is AWESOME as is her FABULOUS Bio-Resonance tool!!!

INVESTMENT IN YOUR SPIRIT/SOUL (Sanity!): 25,000-c/session for locals.

CONTACT: Vicky Saenz - Florales4u@gmail.com

WHAT IS BIORESONANCE?

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bioresonance_therapy

http://youtube.com/watch?v=h-Oyrc752C4

PLEASE "SHARE" this with EVERYONE you know that could use this tool:
http://LivingLifeInCostaRica.blogspot.com/2010/06/bio-resonance-bach-flowers-in-costa.html

(NOTE: If you mention Vicki with the Living Life in Costa Rica blog Connected you, you'll also receive a complimentary•FREE customized Bach Flower remedy tincture!!)

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Where to find ASIAN (Thai, Chinese, Japanese, Taiwanese, Filipino+), Indian & Middle Eastern Ingredients & Food Products in Costa Rica

NOW LOCATED AT:

LivingLifeInCostaRica.blogspot.com/2014/11/AsianMarketsInCR.html

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DIM SUM - Where to find Dim Sum in Costa Rica

What is Dim Sum and

How to Eat it:

-

WorldFoodieGuide.com/index.php/how-to-eat-dim-sum-by-helen-yuet-ling-pangDo you live in Costa Rica and have a CRAVING for DIM SUM???!!! Here are some choices in and around Costa Rica (mainly in San Jose for now):

FROZEN - MAKE AT HOME

SUPER SONY

Sadly, my FAV place to buy Frozen Dim Sum to take home & make it at home for LOTS LESS $$$ CLOSED!!

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RESTAURANTS that serve
DIM SUM

RESTAURANT WONG's

They are also home to an
ALL-YOU-CAN-EAT CHINESE BUFFET!!!
Monday-Friday from 11:30am-1:30pm-ish
4,000-c
LOCATION:
San Jose


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DON WANG

They say authentic CHINESE (Szechuan, Canton, Peking), Taiwan, VEGETARIAN, DIM SUM (you order off the menu instead of them walking around where you get to pick).  2 doors North of Tin Jo and VERY similar but a bit cheaper.  Dishes range from 850-8,000 (plus tax [OLD PRICE).  Menu in Spanish, English and Chinese.  AIR CONDITION.  LARGE SPACE (up to 130).   
PARKING: 
FREE VALIDATED PARKING PARQUEO MUSICAL: located on 8th Avenue, between  11th and 13th Streets. PARQUEO BILLY  MURILLO:  located 25 mts North from the restaurant. PARQUEO LA ORQUlDEA: located 50 mts South and 100 West from the restaurant.
OWNERS:
Denia Arguello Jimeniz and her Chinese Chef/hubby. 
HOURS:
Mon. 8am-3pm and 6-11pm, Tues.-Sat. 8am-11pm, Sun. 8am-10pm.
Note they're open 365 days a year!!!
LOCATION:
San Jose – Downtown - Calle 11, and Avenidas 6 and 8 - 100 meters East - 150 meters North, diagonal from the Lucho Barahona Theater  

(DonWangRestaurant.com • facebook.com/pages/RESTAURANTE-DON-WANG/269831896365266 • 2-233-6484 / 2-223-5925)   

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RESTAURANTE CASA CHINA
(the Chinese Association’s Restaurant)

Traditional Hong Kong DIM SUM and Excellent Cantonese Style Congee.
HOURS:
8am-2am.  (I've also seen 9am-11pm
PRICE:
Plates range from 880-1,150-c/each
LOCATION:
San Jose (and I've seen Los Yoses and San Pedro) - Avenida 10 and Calle 23 - 200 m East of Casa Matute AND I've seen from Matute Gómez go 300 meters East y 25 mts North
AND I've seen desde la TEXACO de Avenida 10, 200 al este, encima de la cuesta, mano izquierda 

(CasaChinaCR.com  •  2-257-8392  •  2-222-1374)

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Villa Bonita

CHINESE (Cantonese and Szechuan) including Peking Duck, DIM SUM and VEGETARIAN.  
ALL-YOU-CAN-EAT BUFFET
with SUSHI, DIM SUM and other Chinese dishes - SUN. -  noon-4pm – 6,500 (plus drinks).
DELIVERY/EXPRESS
(they’ll go practically anywhere in the Valley is sounds like including Carriari, Escazu, Santa Ana+) from 11am-3pm and 6-10pm.
LARGE SPACE for events.  
HOURS:
Daily 10:30am-10:30pm
LOCATION:
Pavas – 1 block South and 75 mts. West of the U.S. Embassy behind PeriMercado  

(VillaBonita.com  •  facebook.com/VillaBonita.net  •  2-232-9855  •  2-220-2477)

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Dragon Oriental Restaurant

I've heard MANY people say this has REALLY GOOD (and the CHEAPEST) restaurant for DIM SUM (I just can't find any/much info on it)
HOURS:
Daily 11am-10pm
LOCATION:
San Jose - Avenida 2 between Calles 7 and 9 (200 meters East of CAJA)

(2-222-2255  •  2-222-1822  •  2-226-4153)

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King’s Garden

CHINESE restaurant
HOURS:
Dim Sum - Daily 11am-3pm (a SMALL selection though).  Restaurant - 11am-11pm.
LOCATION:
San Jose – above Mas x Menos-Sabana – frente Hotel Corobici

(2-255-3838 / 2-233-9003)

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PLEASE consider making a

DONATION

to help keep this site/me alive since Donations are my only source of income these days.  ANY amount of appreciation you'd like to show is welcome!

See the top right corner of this blog for how to do that.


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Please "SHARE" this link with all lovers of DIM SUM you know could benefit from the information:
LivingLifeInCostaRica.blogspot.com/2010/06/dim-sum-in-costa-rica.html

WOKS and other Asian and Indian Spices, Food Products in Costa Rica

QUESTION:

"Where do I find a Wok in Costa Rica?" "What are the differences between an electric wok & a regular wok?" "Where do I find Chinese/Asian Spices & things in Costa Rica?"

VICKI'S ANSWER (not THE only one!!):
Having lived in San Francisco for 17 years, I DEFINITELY agree with you on MY taste buds not being moved by the Chinese food I've eaten in CR (at least not yet though the best I've found so far have been Villa Rey in Escazu, ).

If you're buying a regular wok (I've always thought that most non-electric woks were aluminum but according to Carolina at Super Sony, she said not any longer - at least not what they have), make sure to get the separate "ring" so it's stable on the stove!!!

MAKE SURE TO INITIALLY "CURE" IT (Carolina said the "proper" way of doing it is to take a BIG piece of pork fat [like the size of a guys hand] & melt it down & keep spinning it around the inside of the wok till it hydrates in]). & every time you use it you may need to TREAT IT or it will get rusty FAST (not a tasty "spice"). Just wash it out, put a little oil around it & I first turn the oven on to 350 for like 15 min., turn it off & put the wok in & walk away (I'm amazed how few people that have used mine know to do that or at least don't bother doing it).

The place I LOVE LOVE LOVE for ANYTHING Asian/Indian - spices, packaged things, prepared things, woks, dishes, mosquito zappers++!:

SUPER SONY

2-221-1263 / http://SuperSony.com / Carolina@SuperSony.com / SuperMercado@SuperSony.com

I LOVE LOVE LOVE THIS PLACE!!!

DRY / HOUSEHOLD THINGS

Woks, dishes & things for Asian cooking/serving, Mosquito Zappers/Rackets & LOTS MORE!!!

Super Sony is this FABULOUS store FILLED with pre-made Asian ingredients / 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, Phillipine, 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!!]).

VICKI’s FAV things at Super Sony - 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!!, GINGER CANDY, & Ginseng Candy, Zergut’s PEPPETIZER Roasted Pepper Appetizer & a BUNCH of other things!!!

UNIQUE

Fresh Ajofan & Cho Fun Noodles, Bamboo shoots in hot oil, Dried SHITAKE MUSHROOMS (150 grams-5 lb.). Lychees (canned), Rice Paper, RICES - JASMINE RICE, BASMATI RICE, Korean Rice, Japanese Rice (it’s considered the best) & Sushi Cal Rose Rice (many rices range from 1kilo to 50lbs!!), Tapioca Pearls & Starch, everything you need to make Sushi (dry & frozen - except for the fish)

VEGETARIAN

Outside they have a BIG Deep Freezer FILLED with the BIGGEST selection of Frozen Vegetarian things - many are soy products - shrimp, lobster, fish balls, chicken & beef steak, chicken wings, ham!!! Ask inside to see & MrLee reminded us to bring a cooler so it doesn’t thaw!!). Super Sony is also a mecca for TOFU goodies - Baked tofu. You can special order things like: Korean style veggie tamales (with Shitake mushrooms. 30 tamale minimum [though if you can wait a bit, they can try to fill an order]. Ideally they’d like a weeks notice). No tofu burgers or hot dogs.

FRESH VEGETABLES

Asian Eggplant, Chives, Chinese Broccoli, Ton Cua (giant gourd), Bitter Melon++!!!

BIG BULK SIZE

They carry BIG Bulk / restaurant / food service sizes on many things like Soy Sauce, Teas, Spices, Green Tea, Jasmine Tea++!!!

SPICES (bulk)

Cardimon, Masalas (different kinds), Tumeric, Corriander, Mustards (oil & seeds), Asafoetida++!!!

DIM SUM

If I’m craving Dim Sum - instead of going to a restaurant, in a heartbeat I’d go to Super Sony (to say nothing of how much cheaper it is). I think they have the LARGEST selection of DIM SUM items in COSTA RICA!!

SPECIALS: BUY 6 - GET 1 FREE

(on most items & only on items picked up at the store & when paid with cash).

Check to see if they have the special promotion when you use your red BAC card for 5% off (not on rice & a few things).

SHIPPING WITHIN COSTA RICA/Central America:

They can ship to you within Costa Rica with orders of at least 50,000-colones & with at least a 2 days notice after you've paid for it. You pay the transport fee.

OWNERS:

Super Sony is run by a SOOOOO SWEET Taiwanese family (the Chang's - mom is Elena & just a doll but I don't think she speaks much English)!!! Their daughter CAROLINA speaks GREAT English & is REAL Customer Service oriented!! (give them a BIG HUG from Vicki!!!)!!!

HOURS:

Mon.-Sat. 9am-6pm, Sun. 9am-5pm (most of the time though sometimes if it’s stormy/dead they may close earlier so call ahead)

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)

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Another popular place to purchase Asian products (though MUCH further from me & I doubt they have the FABULOUS family/CUSTOMER SERVICE like Super Sony does!! [I consider SS's Customer Service in the TOP 10 I've experienced in Costa Rica!!!!])

Kawo Mercado Oriental (aka ASIA)

(http://crjin.com/html/esp/t/t008.html / 2-236-3103 / 2-236-0308 / kawo@sol.racsa.cr)

HOURS: Mon.-Sat. 8:30am-8:30pm, Sun. 8:30am-8pm

DIRECTIONS: TIBAS-500m sur/south of the church. Map - http://crjin.com/html/esp/espmapa001.html

Hotel with Hot Springs in the Arenal / La Fortuna, Costa Rica area

MY FAVORITE HOTEL with HOT SPRINGS in the Arenal / La Fortuna, Costa Rica area is:

LOS LAGOS
(http://HotelLosLagos.com /(506) 2-479-1000)
I’ve stayed at Los Lagos twice now & we LOVED IT!! We stayed in a Premium Superior room which are the closest rooms to the volcano!! You sit out on your patio & THERE it is!!! Throughout the night you can feel the rumble (my niece was afraid to fall asleep because of that)!!! I stayed up most of the night & it was AWESOME - but it WAS August which I hear Aug./Sept. are the best months in order to get a glimpse!!

They also have their own FUN Hot Springs pools & a couple water slides, swim-up bar, pool (each has water fed from springs!!), a mini-canopy “tour” (GREAT to check out to see if you can handle it), Frog & Snake farm, Butterfly Garden, Crocidile Farm, Rainforest Ant far, Horseback Riding, beautiful grounds, full restaurant & bar (a tasty buffet breakfast was included).

They’re located in La Fortuna which is a GREAT location because you’re near enough to MANY restaurants/things to do.


Last time I was there was about 3 years ago & I believe since that time hasn't the volcano shifted it's flow direction?? Does anyone know if you can still see the flow from Los Lagos??

Soon I'm going to be sharin' my list of some interesting things to do up in the Arenal Area so check back!!

NEED TRANSPORTATION TO THE ARENAL / LA FORTUNA AREA (or any other area in/around Costa Rica)??

Contact me at CostaRicaResourceGuide@gmail.com & I'll connect you with some WONDERFUL options!!!

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VIP Theater in Nova Cinema at Avenida Escazu, Costa Rica

THE VIP THEATRE!!

What an EXPERIENCE!!   Recently opened, this 46 seat theatre is a REAL VIP EXPERIENCE!!!! It has REAL Leather RECLINERS, LoveSeat Recliners & regular couches!! Even DURING the movie - waiters come around and serve you!!

If you've ever been curious about the VIP Theatre - THIS is THE movie to see there!! It's SOOOOOO "Sex in the City!!"

IMPORTANT TO NOTE: Seats are RESERVED in this theatre so make sure you're together and if you desire a Love Seat - let them know. I believe #1 was on the most Westerly side and there were only I believe 8 rows total.

When we went, someone escorted us up from the Ticket Office to the tres chic VIP LOUNGE!  It is a BEAUTIFUL lounge where you can enjoy the various "snack bars" serving everything from Pannini's, Wraps, Sushi, Pizza, Nachos + and a bar that has wine, beer and Spirits INCLUDING Cosmopolitans, Apple Martinis and Margaritas in honor of this movie (you pay extra of course!)!! 

When it's time to go in, LITERALLY lay back in your electronic RECLINER that practically goes into a sleeping position and wait for the waiter to come around to bring you your food/drinks!!!

This is TRULY a VIP EXPERIENCE and now that I've experienced it, I can't see going back to the old cramped movie theatres!! It's WELL worth the few extra $$s!! (in the states these theatres go from $20-$40+ dollars!!)

AFTER

Continue the FUN in the Food Court at The Gelateria where I hear they have the BEST Gelatos in Costa Rica (it is the same as Plaza Itzkazu) and from there - if it's late enough - check out Prive Disco - one of THE CHICEST discos in Costa Rica which is on top of the theatres!!!!

Prive Restaurant / Lounge and Disco

(http://PriveCR.com / 2-201-8520 / 2-201-8517)

Costa Rica’s only ultra lounge could not have taking a better turn, when becoming a part of The Entertainment CR Family. Privé has experienced extensive state of the art sound, light, video and structural renovations. These additions and improvements bring an international standard never before seen in the region. The New Privé, has set the bar for Costa Rica’s nightlife at an unreachable level. They have their own VIP Experience at Prive!!!

PRICE

The Theatre Entrance is 5,000-c (about $10 [in the states VIP Theatres are usually $20-$40+++!!!]).

RESERVATIONS

2-299-7666

MOVIE SCHEDULE FOR NOVA THEATRES

http://NovaCinemas.CR/cartelera.php

WHERE:

The NEW VIP THEATRE in the NEW Nova Cinema at Avenida Escazu Mall (one block east of CIMA) 

JOIN THEIR FACEBOOK GROUP:

http://facebook.com/sexandthecity2film?ref=search&sid=TrqLXU3cRTmEd6j0QnFj1g.2795549199..1&v=app_114807181894744

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COOL, UNIQUE WALKING TOURS in San Jose, Costa Rica - Barrio Bird with Stacey

WALKING TOURS IN SAN JOSE

BARRIO BIRD WALKING TOURS!!!

(http://BarrioBird.blogspot.com / 8-926-9867 / http://facebook.com/pages/Barrio-Bird-Walking-Tours/144658534609#!/pages/Barrio-Bird-Walking-Tours/144658534609?v=info Ya GOTTA sign up for their FB page as it’s FILLED with info on other things happening around SJ!!! / BarrioBird@gmail.com)

These are THE COOLEST TOURS & SOOOO affordable!!! A MUST DO/SEE EXPERIENCE!!!!

Stacy (tell her "Hola!" from Vicki the Sarong Goddess!) says this tour is “To show visitors there is more to San Jose than crime and grime! You can also relax and not worry about the concerns of exploring San Jose alone. Our 2 hour tour showcases history & culture, giving you a new perspective on the country you are about to explore or depart.” She also gets discounts a some cool local restaurants (currently Café Moro, Wok and Noodles (Asian/fusion) & more soon. RESERVATIONS REQUIRED. Hours can be flexible (though not on Sunday). No minimum amount of people on most tours (except Fiesta Bird is a 2 person min.).

BIRD’S NEST: An introductory tour with over 40 stops, showing a variety of galleries, historic sites, parks, and buildings and public art of interest. We'll finish near a few special restaurants, with special tour discounts.

HOURS: 9:45am-noon

COST: $15/7,000-c, Students (all ages/w/id)-$10/5,000, GROUP-Buy-3-get-1-FREE.

PROFESSOR BIRD SPECIALS: More interested in art, less in parks? Order a special 2 hour tour with focus on ONE of the following; art, churches, flora/fauna, architecture or history. Have a different idea? Let them know your interest and they'll put something together.

HOURS: Hours can possibly be flexible though ideally in the morning (for rain purposes) - 9:45am-noon (no minimum)

COST: $20/10,000-c, Students (all ages/w/id)-$15/7,000c, Group- Buy-3-get-1-FREE.

FIESTA BIRD: While any day is a good day to drink, this tour is best enjoyed on a rainy San Jose afternoon, because what else are you going to do? We'll stumble along between 5-8 dive bars, learning history and interesting facts you might not remember the next day. *So far we've only had two groups make it to the end.

HOURS: 4-7pm (Please note, the bars are cheap, but most cash only. Make sure you have cash on hand for beer and a taxi or two). Minimum of 2 people required.

COST: $10/5,000-c, Includes 1 free shot of guaro, Costa Rica's National liquor.

Tell Stacey Vicki-the Sarong Goddess - says "Hola!!"

Things Gail Nystrom with the Costa Rica Humanitarian Foundation - http://CRHF.org needs

Below is the latest list of THINGS GAIL NYSTROM WITH THE CR HUMANITARIAN FOUNDATION (http://CRHF.org) CAN USE HELP WITH:

JOIN THEIR FACEBOOK GROUP (to get the latest update of what’s needed):

http://facebook.com/#!/group.php?gid=156808054815&ref=ts

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TRANSLATION NEEDS:

WRITTEN - English to SPANISH (or just compiling it in Spanish]):

RECIPES of cheap, easy, yet healthy foods (including some vegetarian options).

How to make Natural Cleaning Products (Google them on the internet)???!!!! This way it's healthier (especially when you have kids playing on the floor) AND cheaper AND BETTER for the environment!!

(Don’t have time to create a whole list but have some good recipes? Email me/Vicki these separately & I’ll pass them on -

CostaRicaResourceGuide@ gmail.com)

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TRANSLATION NEEDS:

VERBAL-SPANISH:

SPANISH SPEAKER/LIAISON TO HELP WITH DOCTOR VISITS (you don't need to know English):

Stella’s son has some sort of a right hemisphere brain lesion. She cant read or write let alone comprehend so Gail needs someone to go with her to act as a liaison with the doctor to help understand what is really happening & what can be done as well as report back to Gail. If you have SOME sort of understanding of the medical world - great but not crucial. This may require a few times.

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MEDICINE / MEDICAL SUPPLIES:

They are ALWAYS in need of ALL types (including used) of medical supplies / medicine (non-expired & including vitamins, etc.)

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SHOES:

They are ALWAYS in need of Shoes (used & new - ALL types)

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CLEANING PRODUCTS:

Basic Cleaning Supplies (both in bulk as well as family size): Liquid floor cleaner/disinfectants (NOT the nasty smelling stuff), toilet cleaners, laundry detergent, liquid or bar soap, dishwashing paste, cleaning cloths (like for mops) & sponges. The products (even used) or cash donation to go towards that would be appreciated.

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BASIC FOOD STAPLES:

It seems there’s always a need here - whether it’s Gail feeding the kids in the Montessori school, various events/projects or families in need.

The basics - vegetable oil, rice, beans, canned tuna w/veges, canned tomatoes, dried milk, sugar, salt+++

Unfortunately her WONDERFUL Food Bank has been put on hold because of lack of funds!!! Wanna help restart this???

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MONTESSORI SCHOOL IN LA CARPIO:

Their Montessori school is a huge success to the point they’re having 2 groups - kindergarten, maternal & they now have a waiting list (isn't it AMAZING these parents have as they MUST come up each month with 140,000-c for this program & they are!! These are the poorest of the poor peopl...e!) & they can accept more kids BUT first they NEED MORE STAFF (VOLUNTEERS willing to COMMIT on an ongoing basis) from 8:30-noon to help work with the kids with teaching, singing songs, outings, feedings, changing, play - wherever you can help!! It IS CRUCIAL that you MUST MUST MUST speak GOOD Spanish!!!!

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BUILD A “STANDING BOARD”

Some to make a special “standing board” chair for a 9 y.o. child with cerebral palsy that straps him in standing up with a tray in front to be able to do things (you’d need to supply the wood also).

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SPECIAL NEEDS/EDUCATION PROGRAM:

Gail's started a Support Group bringing together people with Special Needs/Education Program. They'll be holding their 3rd meeting possibly June 9 & she needs Spanish Speakers (pretty proficient in Spanish is important here) to help compile lists of needs within the community. Also peo...ple to help find people/resources to do the things. And other people to help with once a week therapy sessions (you’re not expected to do all of the things - just whatever area you can).

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GARDENING SUPPLIES:

Someone donated a finca in Turrucares which they’ve started to create it into a work center for volunteers, retreat property for families of La Carpio & nature education center. They need top soil, all sorts of gardening supplies, a weed wacker (electric ok), etc.

DO YOU ALREADY KNOW GARDENING IN COSTA RICA?

They will trade someone a free night accommodation & 2 simple Tico meals to someone that ALREADY understands the area & can advise them on what veges, plants, trees thrives in the Turrucares area.

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RENT A CONDO IN PLAYA GRANDE:

Diane Sobel Globerman will donate 50% of the rental price to CRHF if you rent her 3-bedroom condos in Playa Grande - http://VillasCostaGrande.com

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DONATE MONEY:

Cash donations are ALWAYS needed!!! All money donations can be deposited with ease by going to any branch of Scotia Bank into their “Fundacion de Humanitaria charity account (yes - it's just 4 numbers):

DOLLAR DONATIONS: 1297

COLON DONATIONS: 1298

After you’ve made a donation, PLEASE email her to let her know (for her records).

Unfortunately at this time she is not set up to receive international donations but it’s in the works.

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CONTACT:

If you can help, know of anyone that can help - please contact Gail at GNystrom@racsa.co.cr / 8-390-4192

(I welcome you to share this info with your peeps!!)

Gail says "Thanks for your support"

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OWNING A CAR vs Taking TAXIS in Costa Rica

DO YOU WANT EASE IN YOUR LIFE? TAKING TAXI’S VS. OWNING / DRIVING A CAR IN COSTA RICA

I'm a REALLY BIG picture kinda gal!!

What NOT having/owning a car (and getting to take taxi's) represents to me is 

FREEDOM!!!!!!:

From worrying about open manholes (and swinging into the next lane/oncoming traffic to avoid going down 10 or so feet),

potholes (and they're even in "Good" areas),

From killing some fool that ran out in the middle of the street between 2 suv type cars (I know TWO people that's happened to. Imagine the nightmares they're STILL having!!!),

From getting an ulcer (I drive like Mario Andretti so I KNOW if I had a car, within a week I'd have an ulcer AND kill someone!!!)

From worrying about if it's ANOTHER unmarked one-way street and/or if it's changed this week,

From worrying about someone slashing my tire at a light and then robbing me when they're trying to "help me",

From worrying about where I'm going to park,

From paying someone to "watch" the car (which isn't always an honest person),

From worrying about walking from my parking space to where I'm going and/or back,

From BAD/incomplete directions/descriptions (which they seem to be 95+% of the time),

From Insurance (NOT cheap),

From Registering the car (and getting it passed which surprisingly can be a QUITE challenging)

From Road Rage (from either side [normally pretty much a pacifist and a VERY considerate driver, it's amazing how much this side CAN come out when IDIOT/FOOL drivers get in my way!!!]),

From accidents and car dings (especially not unusual in rainy season),

From getting lost in the "wrong" part of town,

From hardly any signs (including the entrance to the pista/highway that takes you to the airport and even other MAJOR places - to say nothing if you're going back roads!!),

From NO addresses and VERY few street names,

From having to speak good Spanish (I'm learning but luckily I have numerous English Speaking Taxi drivers at http://LivingLifeInCostaRica.blogspot.com/2010/03/taxi-drivers-english-speaking-costa.html),

From needing to know where I'm going!! I just get in the taxi and tell the driver where to take me and 95% of the time they know!

From Traffic (being from Calif. I have ZERO tolerance for traffic and there is a LOT here in CR!!),

From Time - taxi's tend to know the backroads, etc. and can often get there faster. Flying is MEGA fast!!!

To say nothing of how EXPENSIVE cars are in CR, gas (isn't something like CLOSE to $6 a GALLON??), repairs (IF you can find the parts), taxes if you're shipping (REALLY HIGH!!).

When I want to go explore some place in CR I either hire a LEGAL driver/guide that can REALLY show me the ins/outs - things I'd NEVER see driving myself! I also get to REALLY ENJOY/take in the scenery (something people with cars RARELY get to do since they're tooo busy worrying about all above. Contact me at CostaRicaResourceGuide@gmail.com if you want any resources for that). Or I take http://NatureAir.com which often has AWESOME last minute airfares throughout CR!! (I just checked and they have some OUTRAGEOUSLY CHEAP Last Minute flights - like to Arenal/La Fortuna starting at $39, $56-$57 gets you to Nosara/Golfit/Drakes Bay/TamaGringo/Tamarindo, Tambor-near Montezuma $41, Torteguero $46 [plus about $20 in taxes though] and it's just 30 minutes of my time [my time is worth $$$ so this IS an issue for me often] vs. 3 1/2-5+ hours to MANY of these places, AND it's a BEAUTIFUL FLIGHT!!).

Of course it also depends on where you live (I live in Escazu so I have taxi's available to me 24/7 and 98% of the time they come within 5-10 min.) and your lifestyle (I am still working from home with an internet based biz).

This also allows me to go out with Purpose - not just to run up for a thing of paper towel which helps me do my part for the Environment/BIG PICTURE beyond me! I go and do a bunch of things at one time and at $10-$15 or so an hour for a taxi when they're waiting - it's STILL WAYYYY CHEAPER than when you add up ALL the costs/expenses involved with owning a car in CR! At least for ME!

MOST IMPORTANTLY - NO ulcers!!! CALM - Peace of mind (I drive like Mario Andretti - looking all over - NOT in CR!!! [and I've NEVER had/been involved in an accident!!) and I get to ALWAYS ENJOY the ride!! That's what I'm working towards in my life - EASE, CALM, ENJOYMENT and TRUE FREEDOM!!!

At the end of the day it's still WAYYYY more cost effective for me - again - when I'm looking at the BIG picture!!

As usual - here's a DIFFERENT way of looking at life (the BIG picture!!).

Vicki Skinner (aka the Sarong Goddess)

(another chapter in "The World According to Vicki"!)


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One of my Facebook•blogging buddies Jen did a GREAT blurb on
Buses vs Owning a Car in Costa Rica at
CostaRicaChica.com/pays-take-bus
(one day I'll write about that but after nearly 9 years, I'm still quite the taxi kind of gal - fiscal challenges and ALL!!)


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PLEASE "Share" this with EVERYONE you know that's thinking about moving to Costa Rica or getting a car!!
LivingLifeInCostaRica.blogspot.com/2010/05/owning-car-vs-taking-taxis-in-costa.html

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THIS WEEK at UNITY Costa Rica - May 9, '10

OVER

For more info on Unity Costa Rica go to:

LivingLifeInCostaRica.blogspot.com/2014/01/UnityCostaRica.html

 

 

RESTAURANT • FOOD SPECIAL OFFERS around Costa Rica

RESTAURANT • FOOD SPECIAL OFFERS
NOW AT:

BREAKFAST •

LUNCH SPECIALS • ALMUERZOS • ALMORZAR • MENU EJECUTIVOS ESPECIAL•EXECUTIVE SPECIALS - in Costa Rica
LivingLifeInCostaRica.blogspot.com/2013/01/lunch-specials-cr.html

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DINNER SPECIALS • CENA ESPECIAL - in Costa Rica

LivingLifeInCostaRica.blogspot.com/2013/01/dinner-specials-cena-especial-in-costa.html

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ALL-YOU-CAN-EAT SPECIALS in Costa Rica
LivingLifeInCostaRica.blogspot.com/2015/02/AllYouCanEatRestaurantSpecialsCR.html.