STAINED GLASS • MOSAIC • TIFFANY LAMPS • Vitrales Artisans, Stained Glass Supplies•Resources, Classes, Ovens, Glass Art in Costa Rica

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Sylvia Laks

I hear over and over she is one of THE PREMIER artisans in Stained Glass in Costa Rica!!!

Sylvia does Art, Stained Glass, stained glass restoration, Painting, Techniques Stained Glass, stained glass CLASSES.
  Arte, Vitrales, restauración de vitrales, Pintura a la Grisalle, Tecnicas del vitral, clases de Vitrales.

And she's has worked on the stained glass restorations in many Costa Rica churches - Basílica de Cartago en Costa Rica, Iglesia de Limón, San Rafael de Heredia.  She also created the stained glass at the Iglesia Sagrado Corazón de Jesús is considered the LARGEST stained glass EVER MADE!!

She has a FABULOUS workshop space/studio that you can visit (by appointment) (this was a stop on Molly's FABULOUS Art Tours!!!)

Her space is 2 floors of workshop and gallery include many locals working on several large commissioned projects and the top floor is mostly a gallery of Sylvia's works, which showcase her incredible talent with the medium.  She is one of few masters of the grisaille technique, which is using metal powder to draw and paint on the glass to achieve incredible levels of definition (used to delineate faces, bodies, and more).  The powder is subsequently fused to the glass at very high temperatures and worked and reworked several times. 

LOCATION:  Heredia (San Rafael)
BUS DIRECTIONS (per Molly):  It is possible to do by bus and taxi combination: take the bus to Heredia and change for the San Rafael de Heredia bus which is the prettiest colored bus I've seen so far.  Get off at the San Rafael de Heredia church and take a taxi up the mountain to their studio (you'll receive directions after you've made a reservation).

The Laks' (Sylvia and husband Enrique, from Peru) also operate a social enterprise called Artisan, which employs local single mothers to make smaller items which they distribute for sale to souvenir stores in Costa Rica. (per Molly)

(facebook.com/pages/Sylvia-Laks-Studio/258214357437  •  facebook.com/sylvia.lak  •  SylviaLaks.com  •  2-267-6352  •  2-267-6350 xt.110  •  Sylvia@SylviaLaks.com)

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VitroColor S.A. - Deposito Barrio Lujan S.A. Taller

Owners Jaime A. Cabezas and Celita Ulate de Cabezas not only create their own Stained Glass Windows and Doors, Tiffany Lamps and Mosaics - BUT they also teach 
•  CLASSES on how to do Stained Glass
Vitral and Lamparas estilo Tifanny, Mosaico, VitroFusion, Joyeria, Grisalla, Diseño Aplicado al Vidrio, Escultura en Vidrio, Clases de corte - VitroColorCR.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=category&layout=blog&id=13&Itemid=23
•  Rent their Ovens (see "OVEN RENTAL" below) AND have the 
•  LARGEST STORE of Stained Glass, Art Glass (including Mosaic) related materials and supplies in Costa Rica and 
•  they're happy to share their knowledge! 
(see "STAINED GLASS • ART GLASS SUPPLIES AND TOOLS" below).

HOURS:
Monday-Friday•Lunes-Viernes - 8am-6pm.  Saturday•Sabados - 8am-12/noon

LOCATION:
San Jose-Barrio Lujan - Calle 19 and Avenidas 14 y 16
(note it's very tricky to find as that area is filled with little diagonal streets. Joan said the Waze app on her cell knows how to get you there and it saved them time in the end)

(facebook.com/VitroColorCR.ArteParaLossiglos  •  VitroColorCR.com  •  2-221-1344  •  2-961-1000  •  VitroColorCR@gmail.com)



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Creaciones Santos

HOURS:
Monday - Friday - 8am-5pm

LOCATIONS (2): 
Escazu-Centro -  on the Left side 150 mtrs West of the Pub, mano izquierda (just before Restaurante Casona de Laly)
San Jose-Sabana Sur (2-296-1278) - 50 meters Sur/South of AM/PM (or De la Contraloria 100 Oeste/West, 75 Sur/South, mano derecha/Right Edificio 3J Piso color papaya

(facebook.com/pages/Creaciones-Santos/108292702556309 • Stemauco.wix.com/creaciones-santos • 2-228-6747 / creaciones_santos@yahoo.com)



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Vitrales Lamparas Tiffany y Mas
(facebook.com/VitralesLamparasTiffanyYMas •  LaClaser.com  •  8-923-2007  •  LaClaser@racsa.co.cr  •  lunua30@yahoo.com
Luis Castro Lopez creates the Construction of STAINED GLASS DOORS and WINDOWS, TIFFANY LAMPS, domes and more to your taste and budget.  Construcción de vitrales para puertas y ventanas, lamparas tiffany, domos y más a su gusto y presupuesto.
CONTACT:  Luis Castro López  (THANX Gilda) 

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I have a few other individual Stained Glass Artisans that I'm verifying their information and will post later.


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STAINED GLASS • ART GLASS SUPPLIES AND TOOLS
VitroColor S.A. - Deposito Barrio Lujan S.A. Taller

Owners Jaime A. Cabezas and Celita Ulate de Cabezas not only create their own Stained Glass Windows and Doors, Tiffany Lamps and Mosaics - BUT they also teach CLASSES on how to do Stained Glass AND have the LARGEST STORE of Stained Glass, Art Glass related materials and supplies in Costa Rica and they're happy to share their knowledge!

STORE:
In the stained glass shop find from sparks, special pliers (separators, rodents, breakers, etc..), Soldering irons, special welding, copper strips, better welding chemicals to clean the weld and the stained glass, stained glass polishes up machines to intervene glass: diamond saws, grinders, plus every kind and color of art glass.

They have the largest and most diverse inventory of glass in Costa Rica in various brands like Spectrum, Kokomo, Bullseye, Wissmach, Fremont, Armstrong, Glue Chip, Pilkington, Saint Gobain, Uroboros, GNA, Youghiogheny, Van Gogh, variety of dichroic, rondelas, fries, and glass filaments varllas to make beads, bezels, etc.

All the staff, from the manager to the cleaners, know the generalities of making stained glass technique and advise our clients in their search for appropriate colors and variety of textures. Familiar with all the tools and can teach how to use them.

They have excellent suppliers, and consistently bring special orders for their customers, taken from the "Big Book", the largest and most complete catalog catalog on glass art worldwide.

Their catalog has more than 11,000 different items, some of which are highly specialized. Recently they brought a circle cutter that can cut glass pieces 1.5cm in diameter, one of the most difficult to make cuts. They also bring new tools and advanced products to give better finishes to projects of their students and clients.

They RENT THEIR OVENS to merge individual pieces of glass artists and craftsmen.

HOURS:
Monday-Friday•Lunes-Viernes - 8am-6pm.  Saturday•Sabados - 8am-12/noon

LOCATION:
San Jose-Barrio Lujan - Calle 19 and Avenidas 14 y 16

(facebook.com/VitroColorCR.ArteParaLossiglos  •  VitroColorCR.com  •  2-221-1344  •  2-961-1000  •  VitroColorCR@gmail.com)


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OVEN RENTAL FOR STAINED GLASS ART COOKING
VitroColor S.A. - Deposito Barrio Lujan S.A. Taller

Artisan Owners Jaime A. Cabezas and Celita Ulate de Cabezas RENT THEIR OVENS to merge individual pieces of glass artists and craftsmen as well as create their own Stained Glass Windows and Doors, Tiffany Lamps and Mosaics - AND they also teach CLASSES on how to do Stained Glass AND have the LARGEST STORE of Stained Glass, Art Glass related materials and supplies in Costa Rica and they're happy to share their knowledge!

HOURS:
Monday-Friday•Lunes-Viernes - 8am-6pm.  Saturday•Sabados - 8am-12/noon

LOCATION:
San Jose-Barrio Lujan - Calle 19 and Avenidas 14 y 16

(facebook.com/VitroColorCR.ArteParaLossiglos  •  VitroColorCR.com  •  2-221-1344  •  2-961-1000  •  VitroColorCR@gmail.com)


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CLASSES
STAINED GLASS • TIFFANY LAMPS

VitroColor S.A. - Deposito Barrio Lujan S.A. Taller

Owners Jaime A. Cabezas and Celita Ulate de Cabezas not only create their own Stained Glass Windows and Doors, Tiffany Lamps and Mosaics - BUT they also teach CLASSES on how to do Stained Glass, Rent their Ovens (see "OVEN RENTAL" above) AND have the LARGEST STORE of Stained Glass, Art Glass related materials and supplies in Costa Rica and they're happy to share their knowledge! (see "STAINED GLASS • ART GLASS SUPPLIES AND TOOLS" above).

CLASSES:
Vitral and Lamparas estilo Tifanny, Mosaico, VitroFusion, Joyeria, Grisalla, Diseño Aplicado al Vidrio, Escultura en Vidrio, Clases de corte

Stained Glass and Tiffany style lamps, mosaic, fused glass, jewelry, Grisaille, Design Applied to Glass, Glass Sculpture, Cutting Classes VitroColorCR.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=14&Itemid=14 - Class Location - Entre Diagonal 10 y 14??

HOURS:
Monday-Friday•Lunes-Viernes - 8am-6pm.  Saturday•Sabados - 8am-12/noon

LOCATION:
San Jose-Barrio Lujan - Calle 19 and Avenidas 14 y 16

(facebook.com/VitroColorCR.ArteParaLossiglos  •  VitroColorCR.com  •  2-221-1344  •  2-961-1000  •  VitroColorCR@gmail.com)


@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@WHERE TO FIND OTHER ART•CREATIVE RELATED POSTS OF MINE:
ARTS & CRAFTS - ART SUPPLIES in Costa Rica
LivingLifeInCostaRica.blogspot.com/2007/11/resources-where-to-find-art-supplies.html


ART CLASSES in Costa Rica:
LivingLifeInCostaRica.blogspot.com/2007/11/resources-art-classes.html

 

STAINED GLASS•MOSAIC • GLASS SUPPLIES:

LivingLifeInCostaRica.blogspot.com/2013/03/StainedGlassCostaRica.html

BEADING•GEMSTONE RESOURCES go to
LivingLifeInCostaRica.blogspot.com/2008/10/beads-gemstones-beading-supplies-in.html

LAMPS • LAMP SHADES • LAMP REPAIR • LAMP SHADE REPAIR • LIGHTING ACCESSORIES in Costa Rica
go to:
LivingLifeInCostaRica.blogspot.com/2011/05/lamps-lamp-shades.html


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Has this DETAILED information been helpful to you - brought more ease into your life, saved you time and/or $$$/¢¢¢¢?

Please consider showing your appreciation for and helping keep this detailed blog going by making a
DONATION

ANY amount is appreciated since this is my ONLY source of "income" and VERY FEW people give back/donate!!!

Go to the top LEFT corner of the blog for details.


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Know anyone to add to this list?
Email me their DETAILS to:
LivingLifeInCostaRica@gmail.com


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Know anyone seeking a Stained Glass Artisan or Supplies?
Please "Share" this link:
LivingLifeInCostaRica.blogspot.com/2013/03/StainedGlassCostaRica.html

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VETERINARIAN • VETERINARIO - English Speaking Veterinarian - Dr. ANNA HERNDON - Santa Ana, Costa Rica

VETERINARIAN •  VETERINARIO  •  VET
located in SANTA ANA Dr. ANNA HERNDON

#1 - American born (hence she speaks GOOD English) VETERINARIAN • VETERINARIO Anna Herndon is AWESOME and she is SOOOO DEDICATED to ALL animals she takes care, helps, loves!!!
(and she takes care of all sorts of animals - from dogs, cats, horses, turtles, chickens and more [when she's back from the holiday vacation I'll get more precise details]).

I was turned on to VETERINARIAN • VETERINARIO Doctor Anna Herndon THANX to Rosemary Rein who RAVED about her for ages!!
She's been there for me a few times with either helping me & coming to the house or over the phone!!  And MANY MANY of her clients have shared•experienced similar raves (see "Comments" below)!!

She also gives the level of CUSTOMER SERVICE and ATTENTION most of us ExPats are used to (ok - "demand"•expect yet sadly don't always get here). 

She also does HOUSE CALLS in case of emergencies!!! 

AND, she has GOOD PRICES (plus she can be QUITE workable if it's TRULY needed!!).

El Regalo de la Prosperidad en Escazu, Costa Rica

 
El Regalo de la Prosperidad

facebook.com/events/651303574992236/

3 Ingredientes para una receta exitosa,
cuando todo lo demás ha fallado

¿Qué significa ser próspero?
¿Estás cansado de tener malos resultados y la frustración después de trabajar duro para tener éxito en tus proyectos?
¿Sabes por qué es eso?
¿Tienes dificultad para recuperarte después de un fallo?
¿Te gustaría obtener los ingredientes básicos que te ayudarán a desbloquear lo que le impide tener una vida plena y próspera?

CUANDO:
Martes - Jenero 20 - 10:30am-12pm/mid-dia

DONDE:
Escazu (Trejos Montelegre)
Verdeza - Verdeza.com

8-886-6984 • 2-249-2517  •  Pregunta@Verdeza.com

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Centro Viaje de Vida, Life Journey Center, Voyage de Vie

facebook.com/pages/Centro-Viaje-de-Vida-Life-Journey-Center-Voyage-de-Vie/149008695224389

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LivingLifeInCostaRica.blogspot.com/2015/01/RegaloDeLaProsperidadCR.html
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SECURITY•SAFETY MESSAGE for U.S. Citizens Living & Traveling Around the World

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The Department of State is updating the Worldwide Caution to provide information on the continuing threat of terrorist actions and violence against U.S. citizens and interests throughout the world. Recent terrorist attacks, whether by those affiliated with terrorist entities, copycats, or individual perpetrators, serve as a reminder that U.S. citizens need to maintain a high level of vigilance and take appropriate steps to increase their security awareness. This replaces the Worldwide Caution dated October 10, 2014.  

The Department of State remains concerned about the continued threat of terrorist attacks, demonstrations, and other violent actions against U.S. citizens and interests overseas. On September 22, 2014, the United States and regional partners commenced military action against the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL), a designated terrorist organization in Syria and Iraq. In response to the airstrikes, ISIL called on supporters to attack foreigners wherever they are. Authorities believe there is an increased likelihood of reprisal attacks against U.S., Western and coalition partner interests throughout the world, especially in the Middle East, North Africa, Europe, and Asia.

Kidnappings and hostage events involving U.S. citizens have become increasingly prevalent as ISIL, al Qa`ida and its affiliates have increased attempts to finance their operations through kidnapping for ransom operations. ISIL, al-Qa’ida in the Arabian Peninsula (AQAP) and al-Qa’ida in the Islamic Maghreb (AQIM) are particularly effective with kidnapping for ransom and are using ransom money to fund the range of their activities. Kidnapping targets are usually Western citizens from governments or third parties that have established a pattern of paying ransoms for the release of individuals in custody.

Extremists may elect to use conventional or non-conventional weapons, and target both official and private interests. Examples of such targets include high-profile sporting events, residential areas, business offices, hotels, clubs, restaurants, places of worship, schools, public areas, shopping malls, and other tourist destinations both in the United States and abroad where U.S. citizens gather in large numbers, including during holidays. 

U.S. citizens are reminded of the potential for terrorists to attack public transportation systems and other tourist infrastructure. Extremists have targeted and attempted attacks on subway and rail systems, aviation, and maritime services. In the past, these types of attacks have occurred in cities such as Moscow, London, Madrid, Glasgow, and New York City.

EUROPE: Current information suggests that ISIL, al-Qa’ida, its affiliated organizations, and other terrorist groups continue to plan terrorist attacks against U.S. and Western interests in Europe. Authorities believe the likelihood of a terror attack in Europe is increased as European members of ISIL return from Syria and Iraq. Additionally, there is a continuing threat in Europe from unaffiliated persons planning attacks inspired by major terrorist organizations but conducted on an individual basis.  In the past several years, organized extremist attacks have been planned or carried out in various European countries. European governments have taken action to guard against terrorist attacks, and some have made official declarations regarding heightened threat conditions. 

MIDDLE EAST and NORTH AFRICA: Credible information indicates terrorist groups also seek to continue attacks against U.S. interests in the Middle East and North Africa. The U.S. government remains highly concerned about possible attacks against U.S. citizens, facilities, businesses, and perceived U.S. and Western interests.

No part of Syria should be considered immune from violence.  The security situation remains dangerous and unpredictable as a civil war between government and armed anti-government groups continues throughout the country.  There is an increased threat of terrorism from groups such as ISL, al-Nusrah, as well as other extremists whose tactics include use of suicide bombers, kindappings, use of small and heavy arms, and improvised explosive devices (IEDs). Since the start of the uprising against Syrian President Bashar al-Assad's regime in March 2011, the United States has received reports of numerous foreigners kidnapped in Syria, many of whom are still in captivity.  The majority of the victims are journalists and aid workers. U.S. citizens and other Westerners have been murdered by ISIL in Syria. Violent extremists from various countries operate in Syria and may be planning attacks against the United States and other Western targets. 

A number of extremist groups also operate in Lebanon and the potential for death or injury in Lebanon exists because of periodic terrorist bombing attacks throughout the country. As a result of spillover violence from the Syria crisis, Sunni groups are active and Hizballah, a group designated by the U.S. government as a terrorist organization, has been present and active for many years. 

U.S. citizens in Iraq remain at high risk for kidnapping and terrorist violence. Numerous insurgent groups, including ISIL, previously known as al-Qa’ida in Iraq, remain active and terrorist activity and violence persist in many areas of the country. ISIL and its allies control Mosul, Iraq’s second largest city, and have captured significant territory across central Iraq and continue to engage with Iraqi security forces in that region.

Al-Qaida in the Islamic Maghreb (AQIM), the Movement for Unity and Jihad in West Africa (MUJAO), and al-Murabitun remain active and operate primarily in southern Algeria, southwestern Libya and Tunisia in the wake of French and African intervention in northern Mali. In Algeria, terrorists sporadically attack Westerners and Algerian government targets, particularly in the Kabylie region, and near Algeria’s borders with Libya and Mali. In September, a French tourist was kidnapped and murdered by an Algerian-based terrorist group. Terrorists have targeted oil processing plants in Algeria, Saudi Arabia, and Yemen. In Libya, various groups have called for attacks against U.S. citizens and U.S. interests. Terrorist organizations continue to be active in Yemen, including al-Qa’ida in the Arabian Peninsula (AQAP).

AFRICA: Al-Qa’ida  continues to operate primarily in North Africa. Vestiges of extremist elements, including AQIM, MUJAO, and al-Murabitun continue small scale operations in northern Mali mostly related to planting land mines on lines of communication used by UN peacekeeping troops. The major parts of these groups were forced to move to southern Algeria, southwestern Libya and Tunisia in the wake of French and African intervention in northern Mali. Terrorist groups have stepped up their  rhetoric calling for additional attacks or kidnapping attempts on westerners and others, particularly those linked to support for international military intervention.  

Additionally, the terrorist group AQIM has declared its intention to attack Western targets throughout the Sahel (an area that stretches across the African continent between the Atlantic Ocean and the Red Sea to include Senegal, Mali, Algeria, Niger, Chad, Sudan, and Eritrea). It has claimed responsibility for kidnappings, attempted kidnappings, and the murder of several Westerners throughout the region, including southern Algeria.

Al-Shabaab assassinations, suicide bombings, hostage taking, and indiscriminate attacks in civilian-populated areas are frequent in Somalia. Terrorist operatives and armed groups in Somalia have demonstrated their intent to attack Somali authorities, the African Union Mission in Somalia, and non-military targets such as international donor offices and humanitarian assistance providers. Al-Shabaab retains its demonstrated capability to carry out attacks in government-controlled territory in Somalia and in neighboring countries such as Kenya and Djibouti.

Boko Haram, an extremist group based in northeast Nigeria, has claimed responsibility for many attacks, mainly in northern Nigeria. The first months of 2014 have seen a continued increase in Boko Haram attacks and clashes with Nigerian government security forces in northern Nigeria. Boko Haram has also targeted women and children for kidnapping, reportedly kidnapping women in northern states for marriage as “slave brides,” and kidnapping more than 200 school girls from a private school in Borno state. Boko Haram is known to descend on whole towns, robbing banks and businesses, attacking police and military installations, and setting fire to private homes. U.S. citizen missionaries in northern Nigeria have received specific written threats to their safety and well-being, although none have yet been harmed.

U.S. citizens considering travel by sea near the Horn of Africa, the Gulf of Guinea, or in the southern Red Sea should exercise extreme caution, as there have been armed attacks, robberies, and kidnappings for ransom by pirates. The threat of hijacking to merchant vessels continues to exist in Somali territorial waters and as far as 1,000 nautical miles off the coast of Somalia, Yemen, and Kenya in international waters. There has also been a recent rise in piracy and armed robbery in the Gulf of Guinea, including hijackings.

U.S. government maritime authorities advise mariners to avoid the port of Mogadishu and to remain at least 200 nautical miles off the coast of Somalia. In addition, when transiting around the Horn of Africa, the Gulf of Guinea, or in the Red Sea, it is strongly recommended that vessels travel in convoys and maintain good communications at all times. U.S. citizens traveling on commercial passenger vessels should consult with the shipping or cruise ship company regarding precautions that will be taken to avoid hijacking incidents. Commercial vessels should review the Department of Transportation Maritime Administration's Horn of Africa Piracy page for information on maritime advisories, self-protection measures, and naval forces in the region.

SOUTH ASIA: The U.S. government continues to receive information that terrorist groups in South Asia may also be planning attacks in the region, possibly against U.S. government facilities, U.S. citizens, or U.S. interests. The presence of al-Qa’ida, Taliban elements, Lashkar-e-Tayyiba, indigenous sectarian groups, and other terror organizations, many of which are on the U.S. government's list of designated Foreign Terrorist Organizations, poses a potential danger to U.S. citizens in the region. Terrorists and their sympathizers have demonstrated their willingness and ability to attack locations where U.S. citizens or Westerners are known to congregate or visit.

The presence of several foreign and indigenous terrorist groups poses a danger to U.S. citizens throughout Pakistan. Across the country, terrorist attacks frequently occur against civilian, government, and foreign targets. Attacks have included armed assaults on heavily guarded sites, including Pakistani military installations and airports. The Government of Pakistan maintains heightened security measures, particularly in the major cities. Terrorists and criminal groups regularly resort to kidnapping for ransom.

No province in Afghanistan should be considered immune from violence and crime, and the strong possibility exists throughout the country for hostile acts, either targeted or random, against U.S. and other foreign nationals at any time. Elements of the former Taliban regime and members of other terrorist organizations hostile to the Government of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan and foreign nationals remain active in every province of the country.  Furthermore, travel to all areas of Afghanistan remains unsafe due to ongoing military combat operations, landmines, banditry, armed rivalry between political and tribal groups, and the possibility of insurgent attacks, including attacks using vehicle-borne or other improvised explosive devices. U.S. citizens are increasingly targeted for kidnapping. The threat situation in Afghanistan is still considered critical and is expected to remain so through the current political and military transition.

India continues to experience terrorist and insurgent activities which may affect U.S. citizens directly or indirectly. Anti-Western terrorist groups active in India include Islamist extremist groups such as Harkat-ul-Jihad-i-Islami, Harakat ul-Mujahidin, Indian Mujahideen, Jaish-e-Mohammed, and Lashkar-e Tayyiba. Past attacks have targeted public places, including some frequented by Westerners, such as luxury and other hotels, trains, train stations, markets, cinemas, mosques, and restaurants in large urban areas. Attacks have taken place during the busy evening hours in markets and other crowded places, but could occur at any time.

CENTRAL ASIA: Supporters of terrorist groups such as the Islamic Movement of Uzbekistan, al-Qa’ida, the Islamic Jihad Union, and the Eastern Turkistan Islamic Movement remain active in Central Asia. These groups have expressed anti-U.S. sentiments and may attempt to target U.S. government interests.

EAST ASIA AND PACIFIC: Information from credible sources suggests that there is a continued risk of armed terrorist and criminal groups operating and planning attacks against foreigners, including U.S. citizens, in the East Asian and Pacific region. Jemaah Islamiyah (JI) and the Abu Sayyaf Group, have cells operating throughout Southeast Asia and JI is linked to al-Qaida and other regional terrorist groups.  

There is a risk of travel to the southern Philippines, specifically related to kidnapping threats in the Sulu Archipelago and the ongoing threat of violence on the island of Mindanao, particularly in Central Mindanao.

Over the past year there have been several kidnappings-for-ransom targeting foreigners in the Eastern Sabah province of Malaysia and in the southern Sulu Sea area by terrorist or insurgent groups based in the Sulu Archipelago of the Philippines. In addition to incursions on the coastal and island resorts themselves, criminal or terrorist bands may attempt to intercept boats ferrying tourists in the area.

Indonesian security forces have disrupted a number of terrorist cells, including JI, a terrorist organization that carried out several significant bombings in Jakarta and Bali over the past decade. Although Indonesian counterterrorism efforts have been successful in preventing terrorists from conducting large-scale attacks in recent years, extremists in Indonesia may demonstrate a willingness and ability to carry out small-scale violent attacks with little or no warning. 

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Before You Go

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The Department of State urges U.S. citizens living overseas or planning to travel abroad to enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP). When you enroll in STEP, we can keep you up to date with important safety and security announcements.  Enrolling will also make it easier for the Embassy to contact you in the event of an emergency.  You should remember to keep all of your information in STEP up to date; it is particularly important when you enroll or update your information to include a current phone number and e-mail address.

U.S. citizens are strongly encouraged to maintain a high level of vigilance, be aware of local events, and take the appropriate steps to bolster their personal security.  For additional information, please refer to Traveler's Checklist.

U.S. government facilities worldwide remain at a heightened state of alert.  These facilities may temporarily close or periodically suspend public services to assess their security posture.  In those instances, U.S. embassies and consulates will make every effort to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens.  U.S. citizens abroad are urged to monitor the local news and maintain contact with the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.

As the Department of State continues to develop information on potential security threats to U.S. citizens overseas, it shares credible threat information through its Consular Information Program documents, including Travel Warnings, Travel Alerts, Country Specific Information, and Emergency and Security Messages, all of which are available on the Bureau of Consular Affairs website at http://travel.state.gov. Follow us on Twitter and the Bureau of Consular Affairs page on Facebook as well.

In addition to information on the internet, travelers may obtain up-to-date information on security conditions by calling 1-888-407-4747 toll-free in the United States and Canada or, from other countries, on a regular toll line at 1-202-501-4444. These numbers are available from 8:00 am to 8:00 pm Monday through Friday, Eastern Time (except U.S. federal holidays).  

The U.S. Embassy in San Jose is located at Av. O Calle 120, Rohrmoser.  If you are a U.S. citizen in need of urgent assistance, the emergency number for the U.S. Embassy is 2510-2000.
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LivingLifeInCostaRica.blogspot.com/2015/01/USEmbassyCitizenSecurityMessageJan1215.html
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STICKER SHOCK!!! BUYING a CAR in Costa Rica - Prices are OUTRAGEOUSLY OVERPRICED!!!!!!!!

Thinking of moving to Costa Rica and 

BUYING A CAR•VEHICLE in Costa Rica?

You might want to think twice!!

Vehicles•cars purchased in Costa Rica are BEYOND MEGA OVER PRICED!!!

Before you start blaming the seller that they're gouging you, you need to understand how EXPENSIVE it is to bring a car into Costa Rica!!  Because the Import Tax one MUST pay!

On this page I'm going to give you actual EXAMPLES to show you what I mean.

ESCAZU B&B - SPECIAL Price at Casa Laurin - a SPECIAL B&B with a GREAT Host & Location & Convenient Base

SUPER SPECIAL PRICE

$65/per night

AND - you receive the

BEST ROOM AVAILABLE
(at time of check in)**

(ONLY when booking DIRECTLY through Casa Laurin and Paid by CASH.  PLUS 13% tax)

AVAILABLE TILL February 28, 2015!!!

(Super Special on-going for Residents)

TIPPING - "The World According to Vicki" when it comes to whether or not to give a Tip•Propina to a Waitress•Food Server in Costa Rica

Ahhhh - the age old question in Costa Rica - TO tip - or - NOT to tip!!  Costa Rica is considered more of a NO TIP country since restaurants automaticall take out 13% in taxes PLUS they take out another 10% that many see as the "tip" but it's actually more of a SERVICE CHARGE.

BUT . . . not everyone agrees with that and some of us choose to give some more.

For starters, that 10% sometimes does NOT make it to the employees!!!  Some less than scrupulous owners keep it for themselves. 

BUT - IF they do get the tips•propinas - it is typically divided amongst ALL the employees!! Even the bad waiter that didn't do a darn thing for you.

And like in the U.S., food servers do NOT make the standard minimum wage in CR - they make below it.

GARDENING CLUBS•GROUPS • CLASSES • BLOGS • WEBSITES • SEED EXCHANGES • PLANT EXCHANGES on Growing Plants & Things in Costa Rica - for Expats and Locals

As GORGEOUS as Costa Rica is, sadly, there are not many
GARDEN CLUBS • GROUPS

I'm starting this page to share some:

PEANUT BUTTER & CASHEW BUTTER in Costa Rica - Where to find Regular & Natural &/or Peanut Butter

Regular commercial Peanut Butter can be REALLY EXPENSIVE in Costa Rica!!

BY FAR the BEST deal I've found has been whatever brand PriceSmart happens to be carrying at that moment.  Last I checked (December 2014) they had Planter's - a 40 oz/1.3 kilo jar for just 3,395-c (around $6)!!!!  Heck, it's around that price in the major markets for 1/3 of that size!!!  (I love it #1 to help give medicine to pets and #2 - for one of my "Road Trip Foods" - to make Peanut Butter, Gayabana and honey sandwiches)

GAMES & CARDS - BOARD & CARD GAME NIGHTS • TABLE TOP GAME DAY • GAME GROUPS - Where to get together to play Games around Costa Rica - like Air Hockey • Backgammon • Bingo • Bridge • Bunco • Canasta • Cards • Chess • Connect Four • Cribbage • Darts • Dominoes • Jenga • Karaoke • Mahjong•Mah Jongg • Monopoly • Murder Mystery • Name that Tune • Open Mic Nights • PickleBall • Pictionary • Ping Pong • Poker • Pool Tables • Puzzles • Scrabble • Speed Dating • Texas Hold 'em • Video Games & other games. Plus - Where to Find•Buy Games - New & Used

I'm starting this page as a resource for people looking to Connect for

GAME NIGHTS • GAME DAY • GAME GROUPS
Where to gather and play games like
Air Hockey • Arcade games • Backgammon • Battleship • Bingo • Bridge • Bunco • Canasta • Cards • Checkers • Chess • Chinese Board Games • Connect Four • Cranium • Cribbage • Darts • Dominoes • Jenga • Karaoke • Mahjong•Mah Jongg • Monopoly • Murder Mystery • Name that Tune • Open Mic Nights • PickleBall • Pictionary • Ping Pong • Poker • Pool Tables • Puzzles • Scrabble • Speed Dating • Texas Hold 'em • Trivia Pursuit • Uno • Video Games (Xbox, GameCube or PlayStation games) • Weakest Link • Who Wants to be a Millionaire and other games. 

PLUS - Where to Find•Buy New & Used Games

around Costa Rica

Many things listed here seem to be most heavily populated by American • Canadian and European ExPats•Expatriates and most are in English - in part because that's the main community I know how to promote to - but I'm hoping in time this page will grow to have LOTS more activities with locals•nationals and in Spanish also (even better - where we ALL can come TOGETHER!!).

Note that many of them MAINLY happen in the Peak Winter•Snowbird Season (referred to as "Summer" in Costa Rica) which is more after New Years till around Easter•Samana Santa - unless there are lots of locals (ExPats or Tico's) involved - or if nothing else you might want to call ahead before planning on going - to make sure they're happening.

Professional Women's Group of Costa Rica (PWG)

The Professional Women's Group of Costa Rica - PWG

 

NOW branched off to:

PROFESSIONAL WOMEN'S NETWORK

LivingLifeInCostaRica.blogspot.com/2015/05/ProfessionalWomensNetworkCR.html

DISTANCE & TRAVEL TIME (via Flying • Driving and Busing it) between Cities in Costa Rica

 (map from CostaRicaMapProject.com/maps/Topographic/Topography-with-detailed-roads.jpg)

TINY as Costa Rica is (the size of New Hampshire), getting around is NOT NOT NOT easy!!
I'm gathering some sites to give you a MUCH more REALISTIC idea so you don't overplan your vacation to Costa Rica!! 
(more coming)

A UNIQUE place to EAT that's open on NEW YEARS DAY with a different twist on "Comfort Food" & foods that help deal with "The tail of the dog that bit you"!!

MOST restaurants are CLOSED on NEW YEARS DAY in Costa Rica and MANY people "tied one too many on" - so where can you go to deal with those hunger pains AND get some unique tasty treats to help deal with "The tail of the dog that bit you" (a Hangover) & Comfort Foods??

COCINA ECLECTICA  -  in ESCAZU (Trejos Montelegre)!!

Join Joanna & "friends" (old & new) as she's servin' up *Appetizers•Bocas•hors d'oeuvres made with a unique twist (even the more familiar "Comfort Foods" are not totally your old standby's) and soothing music (for those that might have celebrated too much!!) for her "friends" (old & new)!!!

Celebrate NEW YEARS DAY helping fix "the tail of the dog that bit you" (& where to celebrate New Years Eve) with a Tasty Eclectic Twist with Joanna at Cocina EclecTica in Escazu

For a more UNIQUE New Years Eve and New Years Day
spend it with Joanna and friends at
COCINA ECLECTICA
in Trejos Montelegre!!

Come celebrate
New Years Eve and/or New Years Day
with a unique tasty spin on an
"Around the World•International Hors d'oeuvres•Bocas" theme!