What are your options if you seek a villa or buildable lot in Guanacaste Costa Rica?  One is to select an existing villa or the other to buy a lot from among the many available villas and buildable lots on which to build your dream home.   A number of qualified builders include those from Europe, North America and Costa Rica.  Some of the guidelines outlined here for acquiring a buildable lot apply to existing villas.
Zoning laws in the traditional sense found in the United States don’t exist in Costa Rica but you can avoid costly problems by doing your research before buying a villa or land and beginning construction.  Your first step is to check the laws for the particular town and surrounding area you are interested in and to find out about required permits.  The answers to all these “zoning” questions, plus the associated costs, will help you make an informed choice.
It’s important when considering the purchase of land to determine if the utilities are already in place or can be easily accessed to the property from the sources.  Ask about what type of septic system will meet the family’s needs based on the size of the planned home and how many residents will live in it. For an existing villa, check out the current services.  It’s not unusual in some locations to have to collect toilet tissue in a trash can to avoid septic tank problems.  If building, you can install one large enough to eliminate this need.

According to the dictionary luxury means “A material object, service . . . conducive to sumptuous living, usually a delicacy, elegance, or refinement of living rather than a necessity.”  Some goods are perceived as luxurious by the general public because they are status symbols of the purchasing power of the wealthy.

Many people feel luxury is defined by better-quality components and materials, better performance, increased durability, solid construction, stylish appearance, and other special features found in luxury villas for rent in Guanacaste that may retain or improve the basic functionality of the units.

They look for such things as air conditioning, an alarm system, beach club, cable TV, fantastic views, internet, pools, and security 24/7.  Among other amenities they favor are stainless steel appliances, granite countertops and soaker tubs.

The elite group of Previews® certified Coldwell Banker agents are prepared to fulfill their clients’ definition of luxury by leveraging the company’s legacy, global network, and unsurpassed knowledge to help clients obtain a desired lifestyle.

One of the advantages of living in a Costa Rica Condo is less commitment. It’s great for retirees or others who prefer to eschew care and maintenance to the extent a house requires.   In addition, most Costa Rican Condos do not require a down payment as large as that on conventional homes provided financing is available.

Costa Rica Condos are a group of connected units which are either purchased or rented. Residents are not responsible for common or recreational areas because the Homeowner's Association (HOA) takes care of them.  While owners pay individual property taxes on condos and must abide by the bylaws as well as rules and regulations, renters who also are governed by the Association usually have that cost included in the monthly rental fee.

Costa Rica Condos are most often built in planned areas considered a type of "community”. Amenities may include a swimming pool, tennis courts, recreational areas, and barbecue and picnic areas; perhaps meeting rooms that may be rented for parties. Other features might include tighter security and a fitness center. Some newer condominium developments even feature conveniences such as grocery stores, drycleaners, and restaurants all within the development
Buying a condo may be less expensive than a conventional home. Ownership of a condo is much the same as a conventional home. The buyer pays cash or finances it and owns the title to the unit but not the land. When it comes time to sell, the owner is in charge as long as they abide by the bylaws, covenants, and restrictions.

By Helen Dunn Frame
Villa Costa Mar in Playa Hermosa in the northwest province of Guanacaste majestically perches in the trees on a sprawling 2.5 acres of land surrounded by mountains overlooking the North Pacific Ocean and The Golfo de Papagayo. After being picked up at the Liberia International Airport from this crown jewel you will see the mesmerizing sea dotted with green islands, superb views, and monkeys darting about; you will hear the birds in the morning. In this paradise you may rejuvenate your soul, rest, and replenish yourself, all in a lush tropical setting.

From the moment you walk into Villa Costa Mar, you will be overwhelmed with the beauty of the accommodations and the amazing views from every angle. The upper terraces provide another place besides the pool to sit and relax, read a book or check a guide book from the library, play a game, or gaze upon the ocean or a lone bird circling above.

Below the villa and infinity pool you will find two putting greens, a gazebo, and a bocce court for having fun playing a sport anyone can learn.  What a great opportunity to hone your golf putting skills!  This entire area encompasses sitting areas and gardens where observers may lounge and cheer participants.  On the other hand if you seek a challenge, the staff can recommend adrenaline pumping activities such as river rafting, hiking on a steep terrain, and the canopy tours with the best and longest zip lines.

By: Helen Dunn Frame

The inauguration of the new terminal at the Daniel Oduber International Airport in Liberia Costa Rica featuring a slew of concessions was held after two delays totaling nine months on January 12, 2012.  During the peak hours the airport, touted as the best secondary facility in all of Central America and the second major airport in Costa Rica, will be able to accommodate 1,500 passengers.  Coriport, a Costa Rican company that has a 20 year concession to operate it, has six months to propose a plan to remodel the old terminal and expand airport services even more.

The $68 million expansion of the Liberia airport became necessary due to the surge in tourism to the northwest province of Guanacaste. A preliminary $2 million renovation which allowed the airport to receive 11 planes simultaneously, including four more Boeings 767's, had already been completed. Since then, many airlines have added direct flights to Liberia from popular gateways like Houston, Denver and London.

The lower level of 18,000 square meters houses expanded immigration facilities, customs, and an area for arriving passengers, plus airline and airport administration offices. The second floor containing 5,000 square meters includes waiting rooms for passengers departing from Guanacaste, four new gates, concessions, and offices for Costa Rican government officials. Also included in the new terminal are security upgrades.  Existing services including emergency medical technicians, refueling, a fire brigade, banks, telephones, Internet, and restaurants remained.

By: Helen Dunn Frame

JetBlue Airways on November 17, 2011 began flying four weekly non-stop-round-trip flights from its home base at New York's JFK Airport to the Daniel Oduber International Airport in Liberia in Costa Rica's rich Guanacaste region. To celebrate, travelers may book a flight at the inaugural fare of only $119 if booked by December 1, 2011 for travel through February 15, 2012.  This marks JetBlue’s second destination in Costa Rica because it has served the Juan Santamaría International Airport in San Jose with nonstop service from Orlando since 2009.

The Liberia airport is located approximately 12 kilometers west of the town (10 minutes driving distance), 45 Km east of the Papagayo Peninsula, 80 Km northeast of the beach areas of Tamarindo, Conchal, and Flamingo, 35 Km from Playas del Coco, and 220 Km (136 miles) northwest of San José. Arriving at Liberia International Airport is an excellent option for visiting these beaches and towns, as well as many other places of interest that are either in the Guanacaste Province or in neighboring areas.

"Liberia is a world-class destination with a really diverse set of attractions," said JetBlue Director Dave Clark. "We'll be offering the only direct service from JFK and we're excited to make it easy for customers to get to the beautiful Pacific Coast of Costa Rica."  Recent expansion of the Daniel Oduber International Airport although not officially open yet has sparked the interest of several airlines including Delta Airlines which will add flights in January 2012.

Costa Rica Minister of Tourism Allan Flores commented about the airline’s new service, “We look forward to welcoming JetBlue passengers into our country, where they can experience first-hand our rich culture, commitment to sustainability, and the happiness that is unique to our country,"

Flights depart JFK at 9:32 a.m. and arrive in Guanacaste at 1:48 p.m. and return from Liberia at 2:43 pm and land in New York City at 9:00 p.m. on Tuesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays and Sundays.  For all JetBlue flights go to their website: http://jetblue.com/

The Guanacaste Region and more...

Although we are located in the Guanacaste region near Playa del Coco and Playa Hermosa, we wanted to share with you some information about all the regions of Costa Rica. We ciouldn't really say it better than Frommers guidebook so here is an excerpt from their 2006 Travel Guide for Costa Rica.

Costa Rica Regions in Brief

Source: Frommer's Costa Rica 2006
http://www.frommers.com/destinations/costarica/0219020814.html

Costa Rica rightfully should be called "Costas Ricas" because it has two coasts, one on the Pacific Ocean and one on the Caribbean Sea. These two coasts are as different from each other as are the Atlantic and Pacific coasts of North America.

Costa Rica's Pacific coast is characterized by a rugged (although mostly accessible) coastline where forested mountains often meet the sea. It can be divided into three distinct regions -- Guanacaste and the Nicoya Peninsula, the Central Coast, and the Southern Coast. There are some spectacular stretches of coastline, and most of the country's top beaches are here. This coast varies from the dry, sunny climate of the northwest to the hot, humid rainforests of the south.

The Caribbean coast can be divided into two roughly equal stretches, one of which is accessible only by boat or small plane. The remote northeast coastline is a vast flat plain laced with rivers and covered with rainforest. Farther south, along the stretch of coast accessible by car, there are uncrowded beaches and even a bit of coral reef.

Bordered by Nicaragua in the north and Panama in the southeast, Costa Rica is only slightly larger than Vermont and New Hampshire combined. Much of the country is mountainous, with three major ranges running northwest to southeast. Among these mountains are several volcanic peaks, some of which are still active. Between the mountain ranges are fertile valleys, the largest and most populated of which is the Central Valley. With the exception of the dry Guanacaste region, much of Costa Rica's coastal area is hot and humid and covered with dense rainforests.

Guanacaste & the Nicoya Peninsula
The northwestern corner of the country near the Nicaraguan border is the site of many of Costa Rica's sunniest and most popular beaches. Because many Americans have chosen to build beach houses and retirement homes here, Guanacaste, in particular, is experiencing quite a bit of new development. Don't expect a glut of Cancún-style high-rise hotels, but condos, luxury resorts, and golf courses are springing up like mushrooms. That's not to say you'll be towel-to-towel with thousands of strangers. On the contrary, you can still find long stretches of deserted sands. That might not be true for long, however: Now that the new international airport in Liberia is up and running, travelers can get here on daily direct flights from North America.

Costa Ricans, warmly referred to as “Ticos”, may appear similar to other Latin cultures but actually they have different idiosyncrasies.   They represent an endearing culture with a philosophy that is widespread with the chanting of “Pura Vida” (literally translated as pure life) and Qué Dicha (what luck), con mucho gusto (with great pleasure) and their prevalent peaceful lifestyle and attitude. They welcome foreigners and take special notice of those who attempt to speak their native language.

To begin with, like young people the world over, most young adult Costa Ricans use the internet, and are into social media.  Nearly everyone no matter what age carries a cell phone, many continually texting.  Some people don’t have land lines.

It’s not unusual to see many Ticos especially in rural areas carrying machetes. This common all-purpose major knife used for absolutely everything enables them to easily cut, cut, cut foliage, a favorite pastime especially before the rainy season!   When my “adopted Tico son” would help me in the garden in Puriscal I soon learned to be very specific about what I wanted trimmed.

Owning a million dollar home in Costa Rica has turned into a standard of living for many successful people.  It has become a new concept of sharing with family and friends and a way of living life at a different speed that takes advantage of the added value of natural ingredients offered by a region like Guanacaste full of wonders.
While remaining conservative during times of crisis millionaires still invest in a second home if they want one. The basic goal is to keep a standard of living for which they have worked during most of their lives. They also are able to buy low and later sell high if desired due to their greater financial stability so it makes sense to invest.
As Costa Rica continues as one of the favorite destinations of the wealthy for second or vacation homes, houses have gotten bigger and more luxurious to justify the needs and desires of these very demanding property owners.  In areas such as Escazú, Santa Ana and some sophisticated beach destinations in Guanacaste as well as in other areas of the country, what can be considered mansions continue to be built.
Apparently few budget limitations restrict architects and engineers in order for them to bring to life for the wealthy renderings that seem to be impossible dreams that mirror their first homes elsewhere.  These properties in Costa Rica, measured by square meter, include fantastic kitchens and bathrooms and a myriad of conveniences.

You’ve rented a fantastic villa for your vacation in Guanacaste Costa Rica but you don’t want to spend a lot of time cooking for the family and you’re planning a huge party.  How can you avoid spending loads of time in the kitchen but not eat out every meal and have a great event without all the work?  Hire a chef!

One possibility is Guillermo Vindas, 27, currently the Executive Chef at the Pacifico Beach Club in the Pacifico Condo development in Playas del Coco.  A professional for eight years his resume includes stints at the Tabacon Grand Spa Thermal Resort Hotel (5-Star International), Hotel Intercontinental (5-star), Restaurant Baalbeck (Lebanese), among others.  He also prepares meals for private clients.
His cuisine repertoire includes Egyptian, Fusion, Grill, International, Italian, Greek, Lebanese, Mediterranean, Syrian, Typical Costa Rican, Thai, Vietnamese, Spanish, Vegetarian/Vegan, and dishes for clients that have special dietary needs.

By Helen Dunn Frame

Ranking among the best kept essentially unadvertised secrets in Costa Rica is a factory and distribution center marketing braces used to treat osteoarthritis especially in knee joints.  Luckily when a satisfied brace customer met Linda Gray through her real estate business and learned about her “bad knee” he referred her to Alexander Nace at a subsidiary of Ongoing Care Solutions Inc. (NOCI) to check out the Rehabilitator™ brace for herself.
Living with a serious knee problem, Linda, Owner/Broker Coldwell Banker Coast to Coast Properties in Playas del Coco in Guanacaste, had been facing the need for an immediate operation.  However, she had too much happening in her life to take the time out and sought a way to delay the procedure until the slow season.   Alexander shared that he personally utilized the brace for a bad knee over a period of time and eventually it eliminated his pain.
What is the cause of joint problems?  Arthritis is generally the culprit because it refers to inflammation of the joints. Osteoarthritis, also called degenerative joint disease, is the most common type of arthritis.  It is associated with a breakdown of cartilage that can happen in almost any joint in the body.  Most commonly the disease occurs in the weight bearing joints of the hips, knees, and spine.  Several factors increase a person's chances of developing osteoarthritis including heredity, obesity, injury and joint overuse.
Most knee problems begin with an outside traumatic event that leads to pain and a change in the characteristic style of ambulation.  Like dominos, the alteration in the walking pattern can change neuromuscular firing patterns, then cause loss of muscle strength, and subsequently create long lasting gait changes.  It leads to improper heel toe placement which disrupts quadriceps firing.
In addition, osteoarthritis causes the cartilage in a joint to lose elasticity and to become stiff and more susceptible to damage. Over time, the cartilage may wear away in some areas, greatly decreasing its ability to act as a shock absorber. As the cartilage deteriorates, tendons and ligaments stretch, causing pain. If the condition worsens, the bones might rub against each other. Symptoms of osteoarthritis  that develops gradually include aching joints and soreness, pain after overuse or after long periods of inactivity, and joint fluid accumulation.
It is estimated that more than 10 million Americans have the disease.  As a result, studies of “Grade 3-4 Knee Osteoarthritis” (mid-range deterioration) have been made to determine the effectiveness of early diagnosis and treatment. Grade 1 is the least problematic; 5 the most serious.

Today, three cellular companies operate in Costa Rica after four decades when only one company, the Instituto Costarricense de Electricidad (ICE), offered service.  America Movil, Latin America’s largest wireless carrier, operating as Claro Costa Rica, competes with ICE known as Kolbi and Spain's Telefonica or Movistar.

ICE previously had controlled wireless and fixed line business in the country with 2.6 million cell phone lines.  Costa Rica is Claro's 19th country in which it does business.  Among the locations Claro has opened up, two now may be found in Guanacaste.  Look for them in the Liberia Center and in the Comercial Central Plaza next to the Coldwell Banker Coast to Coast Properties office across from Banco Nacional.

Controlled by billionaire Carlos Slim, the parent company of Claro Costa Rica now has access to its eighth market in the Central America/Caribbean region where it had 16.8 million subscribers at the end of September 2011. That represented 7.7 percent of its wireless lines across the Western hemisphere. America Movil also serves customers in Guatemala, El Salvador, Nicaragua, Honduras, Puerto Rico, the Dominican Republic and Jamaica.

With the exception of Cuba, Costa Rica was the last Latin American country with a state telecommunications monopoly, according to its regulator the Superintendencia de Telecomunicaciones (SUTEL).  Ending ICE's monopoly of cell phones in Costa Rica was one of the conditions required to enter the Central American Free Trade Agreement with the United States (CAFTA) that took effect in Costa Rica in 2009. Last June American Movil received authorization from Costa Rica's Comptroller General to launch its Claro operations in local markets.

What are your options if you seek a villa or buildable lot in Guanacaste Costa Rica?  One is to select an existing villa or the other to buy a lot from among the many available villas and buildable lots on which to build your dream home.   A number of qualified builders include those from Europe, North America and Costa Rica.  Some of the guidelines outlined here for acquiring a buildable lot apply to existing villas.
Zoning laws in the traditional sense found in the United States don’t exist in Costa Rica but you can avoid costly problems by doing your research before buying a villa or land and beginning construction.  Your first step is to check the laws for the particular town and surrounding area you are interested in and to find out about required permits.  The answers to all these “zoning” questions, plus the associated costs, will help you make an informed choice.
It’s important when considering the purchase of land to determine if the utilities are already in place or can be easily accessed to the property from the sources.  Ask about what type of septic system will meet the family’s needs based on the size of the planned home and how many residents will live in it. For an existing villa, check out the current services.  It’s not unusual in some locations to have to collect toilet tissue in a trash can to avoid septic tank problems.  If building, you can install one large enough to eliminate this need.

According to the dictionary luxury means “A material object, service . . . conducive to sumptuous living, usually a delicacy, elegance, or refinement of living rather than a necessity.”  Some goods are perceived as luxurious by the general public because they are status symbols of the purchasing power of the wealthy.

Many people feel luxury is defined by better-quality components and materials, better performance, increased durability, solid construction, stylish appearance, and other special features found in luxury villas for rent in Guanacaste that may retain or improve the basic functionality of the units.

They look for such things as air conditioning, an alarm system, beach club, cable TV, fantastic views, internet, pools, and security 24/7.  Among other amenities they favor are stainless steel appliances, granite countertops and soaker tubs.

The elite group of Previews® certified Coldwell Banker agents are prepared to fulfill their clients’ definition of luxury by leveraging the company’s legacy, global network, and unsurpassed knowledge to help clients obtain a desired lifestyle.

Guanacaste Ocean front Homes Appeal to Expats for Retirement or second Home.

The gorgeous beach known as the Malibu of Costa Rica remains the hottest growth area of the Guanacaste Gold Coast.  Location, location, location still rings true when purchasing or renting one of the Guanacaste Oceanfront Homes in this area.   With the help of a qualified and experienced realtor, such as those associated with Coldwell Banker Coast to Coast, you can fulfill you fantasy to live in your dream home in Costa Rica.
Plots of prime oceanfront land for development or houses and condos ready to live in are available.  Adjoining beach properties may be found that are ideal for development. At this time permits may be obtained to build up to seven story Guanacaste Oceanfront Homes or condos before the regulatory plan comes into effect when the limit most likely will be three levels.
Guanacaste Oceanfront homes include luxury modern villas featuring homes as large as 6000 square feet.  Many are perched above a landscaped palm forest on as much as three acres of property.  They are designed to take advantage of expansive views of the ocean and a white sand beach and year-round sunsets. These properties combine state-of-the-art North American amenities in a delightful tropical setting.

Costa Rica is a world renowned destination for investment because its beauty goes beyond pristine beaches, magnificent mountains and volcanoes, and tropical weather. It’s amazing how gorgeous vistas can change the ambiance and character of properties in Costa Rica.
Guanacaste, one of seven provinces in Costa Rica, not only features a variety of outstanding Costa Rica properties to buy or rent -- beachfront house or condo, luxury villa or mountain getaway -- it can’t be emphasized enough that it’s on the fast track to becoming the new medical tourism hot spot.  For the investor this promises potential for attracting renters, or buyers for those planning to sell their investments after a period of time.
Tourists who seek nip and tucks or other medical services enjoy recouping at the beach instead of in the capital of San Jose.  With prices for medical services 25 to 75% less than in the United States, they can afford to seek out the top U.S. and European trained medical professionals in Guanacaste.  Choices include the new CIMA Hospital, the future Clinica Biblica Hospital being built on Sun Ranch, both highly reputed facilities, and a number of outstanding clinics located near the Liberia International Airport.

One of the advantages of living in a Costa Rica Condo is less commitment. It’s great for retirees or others who prefer to eschew care and maintenance to the extent a house requires.   In addition, most Costa Rican Condos do not require a down payment as large as that on conventional homes provided financing is available.

Costa Rica Condos are a group of connected units which are either purchased or rented. Residents are not responsible for common or recreational areas because the Homeowner's Association (HOA) takes care of them.  While owners pay individual property taxes on condos and must abide by the bylaws as well as rules and regulations, renters who also are governed by the Association usually have that cost included in the monthly rental fee.

Costa Rica Condos are most often built in planned areas considered a type of "community”. Amenities may include a swimming pool, tennis courts, recreational areas, and barbecue and picnic areas; perhaps meeting rooms that may be rented for parties. Other features might include tighter security and a fitness center. Some newer condominium developments even feature conveniences such as grocery stores, drycleaners, and restaurants all within the development
Buying a condo may be less expensive than a conventional home. Ownership of a condo is much the same as a conventional home. The buyer pays cash or finances it and owns the title to the unit but not the land. When it comes time to sell, the owner is in charge as long as they abide by the bylaws, covenants, and restrictions.