The United States has intensified deportations to El Salvador, targeting migrants accused of ties to the Salvadoran gang Mara Salvatrucha (MS-13) and Venezuela’s Tren de Aragua, both labeled “terrorist” organizations by Washington. On March 16, 2025, over 250 migrants—238 alleged Tren de Aragua members and 23 MS-13 affiliates—were flown to El Salvador’s Cecot mega-prison, a 40,000-capacity facility central to President Nayib Bukele’s anti-gang crackdown. A smaller group of 17 followed on March 31, including “murderers and rapists,” per Secretary of State Marco Rubio, despite a federal judge’s order halting such removals under the 1798 Alien Enemies Act.
These deportations stem from a U.S.-El Salvador agreement, solidified during February talks between Rubio and Bukele, where El Salvador agreed to house deportees for a fee—$6 million for the initial 250. Bukele hailed the deal as a model for hemispheric security, while President Donald Trump praised him as a “friend” tackling crime. The White House frames the policy as protecting Americans from “heinous monsters,” with Rubio calling it a blueprint for prosperity.
Yet, controversy abounds. Human rights groups decry Cecot’s conditions—overcrowding, head-shaving, and alleged abuses—calling it inhumane. The March deportations included Kilmar Ábrego García, reportedly sent in error, highlighting due process concerns. Critics, including the ACLU, argue the U.S. relies on flimsy evidence like tattoos to label migrants as gang members, with CBS News finding no criminal records for 75% of the 238 Venezuelans deported in March.
Trump’s invocation of the Alien Enemies Act, last used in wartime, has sparked legal battles. A D.C. judge’s March 15 ruling to pause deportations was ignored as planes landed in El Salvador, prompting Venezuela’s Nicolás Maduro to call it “kidnapping.” Bukele, undeterred, touts Cecot as a solution, but Salvadorans fear it could strain their anti-crime gains.
As Trump and Bukele meet in Washington to deepen ties, the policy’s cost—human and diplomatic—looms large. While deportations aim to curb gang violence, missteps risk alienating allies and eroding trust.
A recent La Nación report highlights growing tourist hesitation to visit Costa Rica amid rising crime. Since 2024, visitors have voiced unease about the country’s security, per the newspaper. “In the last five years, more than 6,300 tourists were victims of crimes, mainly robberies and car theft,” La Nación states, underscoring the scale of the issue in popular destinations.
Crime has surged in tourist hubs like Jacó, Cóbano, Cahuita, Quepos, La Fortuna, Bahía Ballena, Nosara, and Tamarindo. In 2023 alone, the Judicial Investigation Agency (OIJ) recorded 1,447 crimes against tourists’ property, with Jacó (279 cases) and Cahuita (194 cases) among the hardest hit. This follows a record 900+ homicides nationwide in 2023, largely tied to drug trafficking, which has spilled into coastal areas, fueling theft and robbery.
International governments have responded with warnings. Canada’s March 2025 advisory urges high caution, citing theft risks in Cóbano, Cahuita, and San José. The U.S.’s December 2024 Level 2 advisory highlights petty crime, armed robbery, and homicide, advising against walking alone at night or visiting isolated beaches. These alerts reflect a broader uptick in insecurity, challenging Costa Rica’s reputation as a safe haven.
Tourism, which drives 8% of Costa Rica’s GDP, faces strain. Industry estimates project a 15–20% drop in visitor arrivals by late 2025, as noted in our March report, threatening a $7 billion sector and thousands of jobs. The Costa Rican Tourism Institute (ICT) insists safety perceptions remain “very positive,” but tourism chambers and business owners disagree. Many crimes go unreported, they argue, as visitors dismiss minor thefts, skewing official stats.
Drug trafficking intensifies the crisis. International media, including The New York Times and Los Angeles Times, link rising violence to Costa Rica’s role as a cocaine transit hub, with cartels like Mexico’s Sinaloa fueling local crime. A recent Le Monde article called the country a key drug exporter to Europe, noting robberies in Quepos and Cahuita often tie to gang activity. “Front-page coverage in global newspapers amplifies fears about tourist safety,” said Bary Roberts, a tourism entrepreneur.
The government’s response draws scrutiny. President Rodrigo Chaves added 1,500 police officers in 2023 and proposed tougher laws, alongside cargo scanners to curb drug exports. Yet, with crime climbing, critics call these steps insufficient. No comprehensive strategy has emerged to reassure visitors or protect tourism-dependent families, leaving the private sector frustrated.
Despite challenges, Costa Rica remains safer than regional neighbors like Honduras, per the Global Peace Index. Local efforts, such as Nosara’s community watch programs, aim to deter theft. Travelers can reduce risks by using licensed taxis, securing valuables, and enrolling in embassy alert programs like the U.S.’s STEP. Tourism leaders urge stronger police patrols to restore confidence.
The stakes are high. Without bold action, Costa Rica risks losing its ‘Pura Vida’ allure—and the economic lifeline tourism provides.
Easter otherwise known as Holy Week is a prime (but crowded) time to vacation in Costa Rica, with sunny April days perfect for beaches, jungles, or mountain trails. But as locals and visitors flock to popular spots during this holiday, roads can turn into slow-moving lines, especially on Monday Thursday and Good Friday. For those planning an stress-free getaway, flying within Costa Rica offers a smart way to get around, saving time and unlocking our country’s different types of destinations. Here’s why air travel, particularly with SANSA Airlines, is a great option for your Holy Week trip.
Driving from San José to beach towns like Tamarindo or Manuel Antonio can take four to six hours during holiday traffic, eating into your vacation time. Flying cuts that down dramatically—SANSA Airlines offers flights from Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO) to places like Tamarindo, Nosara, or Quepos in 30 to 50 minutes. A trip to La Fortuna, home to Arenal’s hot springs, is just a 30-minute flight versus a three-hour drive. SANSA serves over a dozen spots, including Puerto Jiménez for Osa Peninsula wildlife, Tortuguero’s turtle nesting grounds, and quieter locales like Drake Bay or Tambor. This reach makes it easier to plan a trip that matches your vibe, whether it’s surfing, hiking, or relaxing.
Flying also sidesteps the frustration of congested roads. “Last Holy Week, we spent hours stuck on the way to Liberia,” said traveler Marco Vargas. “This year, we’re flying—it’s worth it for the extra beach time.” SANSA’s small Cessna planes land on local airstrips, so you can reach remote areas without long transfers. Plus, you’ll catch low-altitude views of Costa Rica’s hills and coasts, adding a quick scenic bonus to your journey.
To make flying work for your vacation, plan ahead. Holy Week is busy, so book flights early at flysansa.com to secure seats to hotspots like Quepos or Nosara. Fares start around $64 for shorter routes, but prices rise closer to the holiday. Pack light—SANSA allows 30 pounds of checked luggage and one small carry-on—to avoid hassle at check-in. Aim for morning flights to dodge afternoon winds and arrive with a full day ahead. Check in at SJO’s domestic terminal 45 minutes before departure to keep things smooth.
Flying opens up flexible itineraries. You could spend a few days in La Fortuna for volcano trails, then hop to Tamarindo for surf lessons, all without exhausting drives. Holy Week brings cultural events too, like processions in San José or Cartago, which are easier to enjoy when you’re not worn out from the road. Just plan activities early—popular tours like Manuel Antonio park visits or Corcovado hikes book up fast.
SANSA’s reliability, with over 40 years of service, makes it a solid choice, though other carriers like Costa Rica Green Airways also operate. Small planes might feel new if you’re used to big jets, but crews are helpful for first-timers. April’s dry weather favors flying, though checking forecasts is wise. If you’re traveling with family, short flights keep kids happier than long car rides.
Looking into flights instead of renting a car or transfer for your Holy Week plan means more time for what draws you to Costa Rica—whether it’s wildlife, waves, or culture. It’s a practical way to stretch your vacation and skip the gridlock.
“Permaculture” is a word that has steadily grown in our global vocabulary since it was coined in the 1980s by Australian environmentalist Bill Mollison. He defined it as the harmonious integration of landscapes and people to sustainably provide food, energy, shelter, and other material and nonmaterial needs. Today, this concept resonates more than ever as we face the urgent need to rethink how we live with nature.
Gardeners, organic farmers, and landscape designers were among the first to embrace permaculture, using its principles to create eco-friendly designs that work with the environment rather than against it. I still vividly recall the nights I spent poring over Mollison’s seminal book, Permaculture: A Designer’s Manual, and sharing its ideas with readers of The Tico Times way back in 1982. Now, over four decades later, permaculture’s relevance has only deepened as Costa Rica and the world prioritize sustainable development in the face of climate challenges.
In early 2025, we hosted a permaculture design course at our herb farm in San Isidro de El General, a vibrant Southern Zone town. Led by Desiree Wells, a seasoned instructor from the Permaculture Institute with global experience, the course offered hands-on training in natural soil fertility, erosion control, tropical gardening, and eco-friendly building techniques. Wells also emphasized community activation, showing how permaculture can bring people together. Her approach, blending voluntary simplicity with a deep respect for land and community, continues to inspire me.
Permaculture begins at home—think of it as a way to redesign and retrofit our living spaces to align with nature. In Costa Rica, where sunshine is abundant, solar-powered solutions like water heaters, ovens, and food dryers are practical steps toward energy independence. These small changes ripple outward, reducing our ecological footprint while embracing the country’s natural gifts.
Beyond the home, permaculture introduces “edible landscaping,” a concept gaining traction even in urban areas. City dwellers can grow food in recycled containers, on rooftops, or through hydroponics—perfect for small spaces in San José or Liberia. Suburban yards, often dominated by manicured lawns or decorative plants, can transform into productive orchards and vegetable gardens, blending beauty with utility.
Farms, too, thrive under permaculture principles. By redesigning layouts to protect soil and water, and boosting biodiversity with a mix of trees, crops, and animals, farmers can create resilient systems. The key lies in choosing plants with multiple benefits. Consider the lemon tree, a Costa Rican favorite: it offers shade, sequesters carbon, and yields vitamin-C-rich fruit for juices or dressings. Its husk doubles as a natural deodorant or cleaner, while the leaves and flowers brew into a calming tea—a perfect example of permaculture’s multifunctional ethos.
For readers eager to dig in, I recommend Earth User’s Guide to Permaculture by Rosemary Morrow (first published in 1993, with updated editions available). This accessible, affordable guide breaks down the subject for beginners and seasoned gardeners alike, making it an ideal starting point.
Permaculture’s core principles remain timeless and deeply relevant to Costa Rica’s eco-conscious spirit. Here are a few to live by:
Work with, not against, nature.
Care for the earth, care for people, and care for the community.
Share the surplus and practice mindful consumption.
Recognize that everything—from plants to people—shapes its environment.
Honor the intrinsic worth of all living things.
Turn challenges into opportunities; every resource has value.
Focus effort where it makes the biggest impact.
As Costa Rica continues to lead in sustainability—think of our renewable energy achievements and reforestation efforts—permaculture offers a personal and communal path forward. Whether you’re in a bustling city or a rural finca, it’s a call to reimagine how we live, grow, and thrive together.
Easter (Semana Santa), or Holy Week, is a cornerstone of Costa Rican culture, where centuries-old Catholic traditions blend with lively community spirit, captivating expats, tourists, and travelers. This sacred week before Easter Sunday features solemn rituals, vibrant processions, quirky superstitions, and family gatherings, offering an authentic glimpse into Tico life. Whether you’re living in Costa Rica or just visiting, here’s how to enjoy yourself if your here during this time.
Sacred Rituals and Time-Honored Traditions
For Costa Rican Catholics, Semana Santa is a deeply spiritual time, honoring Jesus’ Passion, Death, and Resurrection. Historically, from Holy Wednesday to Good Friday, daily activities paused to avoid bad luck. Women cooked meals like sopa de pescado (fish soup) or miel de chiverre (sweet squash dessert) in advance, reheating them to focus on prayer, while men gathered extra firewood. Today, while some families uphold these customs, many Ticos attend special Masses, join processions, or watch Easter classics like Jesus of Nazareth or The Ten Commandments, merging faith with modern downtime.
Good Friday is a highlight, with a nationwide moment of reflection at 3 p.m., marking Christ’s death. Churches host meditations on the Passion, and cities like San José and Cartago stage dramatic processions re-enacting the Stations of the Cross. Expats and visitors can experience live Passion performances in San Joaquín de Flores or Mercedes Norte in Heredia, northwest of San José, or join Cartago’s events, often linked to the Basilica de Nuestra Señora de los Ángeles’ pilgrimage tradition. In Alajuela, intricate sawdust carpets (alfombras) line procession routes, a colorful draw for tourists.
Superstitions and Playful Folklore
Holy Week brims with superstitions that add charm for newcomers. A famous warning cautions against swimming on Good Friday, lest you turn into a fish—a tale still shared in beach towns like Jacó or Nosara. Climb a tree that day, and you might grow a tail. Fortune hunters chase a daring legend: at midnight on Good Friday, the higuerón (giant fig) tree blooms under a cloud where the devil waits. Snag the flower without getting caught, and you’ll strike it rich with lottery winnings.
Single men beware: carrying the Saint John icon during the Holy Burial procession is said to doom you to bachelorhood. In rural Guanacaste towns like Nicoya or Santa Cruz, another tradition thrives: at midnight on Holy Saturday, locals burn a cloth effigy of Judas Iscariot, symbolizing betrayal’s end. Afterward, pranksters gather items left outside homes—oxcarts, shoes, garden tools—and pile them on the town soccer field. Residents often pay a small church donation to retrieve their belongings, with funds aiding the poor or church upkeep, turning mischief into goodwill.
Festive Moments and Modern Twists
Holy Saturday blends solemnity and celebration. Masses focus on the Resurrection’s anticipation, followed by lively church gatherings with music, flowers, coffee, and tamales. In some towns, the Judas burning sparks community festivities, though a past earthquake during a Holy Saturday rattled Ticos, adding a cautious note to the day. Coastal areas like Puntarenas or Guanacaste draw crowds, but rural towns offer quieter, authentic experiences with traditional marimba music or cimarronas (brass bands).
For vistors, Semana Santa is a chance to see Costa Rica’s diversity in action. Processions in San José feature Roman soldier costumes and candlelit marches, while Alajuela’s La Agonía procession showcases stunning alfombras. To navigate the holiday rush, book rooms early in popular spots like Manuel Antonio or Monteverde. Domestic flights with SANSA Airlines can bypass traffic to destinations like Liberia or Quepos, a tip expats and tourists alike appreciate.
Tips for Immersing in the Experience
To really enjoy Semana Santa, you need to plan ahead and embrace the pura vida lifestyle found here (i.e. Patience). Many businesses close from Holy Thursday to Easter Sunday, especially in rural areas, so stock up on essentials. Public transport may run on reduced schedules, and roads to coastal destinations get congested—consider SANSA for quicker travel. Dress modestly for church events and processions, and carry cash for street vendors selling empanadas or churros.
For a richer experience, join a community activity. Help decorate a church altar or chat with locals about their favorite traditions over café chorreado. Photographers should seek evening processions in Heredia or Cartago for dramatic shots, but always ask permission during sacred moments. Expats can bond with neighbors by sharing a homemade arroz con leche, while tourists can savor the communal meals often served after Holy Saturday Masses.
Why Semana Santa Shines
Semana Santa is more than a religious holiday; it’s a celebration of Costa Rica’s faith, resilience, and community spirit. For expats, it’s a chance to connect with Tico culture. For tourists, it’s an immersive journey into a nation where devotion and festivity intertwine. Whether you’re watching a Passion play in Heredia, laughing over a Judas prank in Guanacaste, or tasting miel de chiverre, Holy Week creates memories that linger long after Easter.
Tradition
Description
Where to Experience
Good Friday Processions
Solemn marches with live Passion re-enactments and Stations of the Cross.
San Joaquín de Flores, Mercedes Norte (Heredia), Cartago, San José
Judas Burning
Midnight burning of a Judas effigy, followed by playful item collection for charity.
Guanacaste towns (Nicoya, Santa Cruz)
Sawdust Carpets
Colorful carpets of dyed sawdust crafted for processions.
Alajuela, select San José areas
Easter Meals
Dishes like sopa de pescado, miel de chiverre, and arroz con leche.
I started reading The Tico Times in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, more than a decade ago when my wife and I first started brewing the crazy idea of moving to Costa Rica. After years as a reader, an idea popped into my head, ‘I can write a little bit. Why don’t I write wildlife articles about the creatures that I’ve recorded on my camera traps and then share the videos with the articles?’ Thanks to the good folks at The Tico Times, this little idea has worked out nicely. It turns out I enjoy writing. Diving a little deeper into each species that I write about has broadened my knowledge of the natural world in Costa Rica.
A side benefit of writing wildlife articles that I didn’t see coming was a steady stream of interesting people reaching out after reading one article or another. The messages come in many shapes and sizes, sometimes somebody wants to say they enjoyed something I wrote, sometimes somebody wants to point out how wrong I am about something. It’s all good. Every once in a while, an article will spark a conversation that leads to a real-life interaction. A couple of those interactions have included the world’s tallest British photographer, who came with me to review camera traps and ended up giving me some very nice professional photos of the experience as well as a guy who works for PBS, who doesn’t know it yet, but I’ll someday convince to make some sort of wildlife documentary with me.
Recently, my articles prompted a message from Canadian fisheries research scientist Dr. Christopher Bunt. Chris told me all about how he and his team use underwater camera traps to do all sorts of interesting fish research. He went on to say that he’d be willing to come to Costa Rica with one of his cameras, teach me how to use it, and leave it with me to play with as I saw fit. I had done some research into underwater camera traps in the past and pretty much came up empty. Now I had a fellow who designs underwater camera traps and implements them all over the world offering to bring one down to Costa Rica? Sign me up.
I knew exactly where I wanted to install the camera as soon as we started discussing the idea, one of my favorite places on the planet, Estación Experimental Forestal Horizontes. Horizontes is a protected area in northern Guanacaste. Deep in the tropical dry forest of this property there’s a stream that runs with cool, clear water year-round. It flows amongst enormous trees and every so often opens up into wide slow-moving sections that are almost like ponds. I had been camera trapping the area alongside this stream for a few years with terrific results and the idea that I could start to learn what’s below the water’s surface was exciting.
I knew from camera trapping the banks of the stream that we’d have the opportunity to record iguanas, Baird’s tapirs, and neotropical river otters swimming through the water. While hiking along the stream to review my cameras, I’d often see a wide variety of fish swimming around in there and learning about the different species was going to be fun. Plus, in all of the time that I hiked along the stream and camera trapped its banks, I’d never seen any signs of crocodiles, so we’d be safe entering the water to install the camera.
Chris came down to Costa Rica a few weeks ago and stayed at Horizontes. We spent a few days hiking all over the place, reviewing my terrestrial camera traps and searching the magical stream for an area to install the underwater camera. We eventually found what seemed to be the perfect spot where the stream widened slightly, and got a little bit deep, a foot or two over my head. In the deep spot, there was a large boulder in the stream that would funnel everything passing by into a smaller area. We decided to attach the camera onto a submerged log alongside the boulder. We spent a few hours properly camouflaging the part that stays on land and splashing around in the stream to install the part that goes in the water.
After only a few days of leaving the camera running 24/7 underwater, it was time for Chris to get home. Before heading to the airport, we stopped by Horizontes to quickly review the camera. It seemed as though everything was functioning normally when we arrived, and Chris swapped out the SD card so he could review our preliminary results once he got home. A day or two later Chris sent me the first video from the underwater camera trap on Whatsapp, it depicted a decent-sized crocodile slowly drifting by the camera, propelled by a few swipes of its scaled tail. I guess there are crocodiles in there after all.
Take a look at a few of our favorite clips from the camera so far in the video below and stay tuned, I’m sure I’ll have more wild videos coming in the future.
About the Author
Vincent Losasso, founder of Guanacaste Wildlife Monitoring, is a biologist who works with camera traps throughout Costa Rica.
Reskilling and upskilling—training professionals to enhance their skills or acquire new ones—are no longer optional; they are a strategic necessity for Costa Rica to remain competitive in the global market. The country has demonstrated its ability to adapt and attract investment, but it must redouble its efforts to ensure its workforce is prepared for future challenges.
The key to success lies in collaboration between the public, private, and educational sectors, fostering a culture of continuous learning and adaptability. With a well-designed strategy, Costa Rica has the potential to become a regional leader in human talent and a benchmark in the digital transformation era.
In 2025, workforce training and reskilling have become fundamental pillars to sustain Costa Rica’s economic growth and address the challenges of an ever-evolving labor market. Factors such as digital transformation, automation, supply chain reconfiguration, and nearshoring have accelerated the need for both businesses and workers to invest in developing new skills.
The key question is: How can Costa Rica ensure the success of these processes and maintain its appeal as a “talent hub” for foreign investment and the knowledge economy?
A Strong Foundation, but Challenges Persist
Costa Rica has been a reference in attracting foreign investment, with multinational companies establishing operations in advanced manufacturing, technology, medical devices, shared services, and cybersecurity. According to CINDE, more than 350 global companies operate nationwide, generating high demand for specialized talent.
However, the skills gap between labor supply and demand remains a significant challenge. Studies by the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) and the World Economic Forum (WEF) warn that many Latin American workers lack the competencies required for future jobs, threatening regional competitiveness.
Costa Rica is no exception. Automation transforms industries and eliminates repetitive tasks while creating new opportunities in artificial intelligence, data analytics, renewable energy, and software development. This shift makes reskilling and upskilling essential to prevent structural unemployment and ensure workforce employability.
Key Obstacles to Workforce Development
Disparity Between Academic Training and Market Needs Many educational institutions have yet to update their curricula to align with the needs of emerging sectors. The traditional education model does not respond with the agility that today’s labor market requires. A viable solution is to foster partnerships between the private sector, universities, and technical institutes to develop continuous training programs geared toward high-demand jobs. The dual education model in Germany has proven highly effective in closing this gap.
Lack of a Culture of Continuous Learning in Companies Many organizations still perceive training as an expense rather than a strategic investment. This limits internal talent development and increases dependence on external hiring. Companies must adopt a “lifelong learning” mindset and offer incentives to employees who participate in training programs. Leading corporations like Amazon, Kyndryl, HP, and IBM have invested billions in reskilling programs, recognizing their role in improving productivity and retaining talent.
Unequal Access to Training Continuous education opportunities are not equally accessible to all workers. Rural areas and sectors with limited access to technical education face difficulties adapting to market changes. Training programs must be made more accessible to the entire population, including government incentives and funding for digital and technical skill development. Singapore’s SkillsFuture program, which provides training credits to all citizens, is a successful model to follow.
Resistance to Change and Lack of Soft Skills Beyond technical abilities, employers increasingly seek competencies such as leadership, resilience, creativity, and teamwork. However, many training programs focus solely on technical knowledge, overlooking these essential skills. Training strategies should integrate technical skill development with soft skills. Workers with strong adaptability and learning abilities will be more competitive in the job market.
Best Practices for Effective Reskilling and Upskilling
Successful strategies implemented in more advanced economies can be adapted to smaller nations like Costa Rica:
Establishing a Strategic Vision for Education and the Private Sector Costa Rica needs a national reskilling and upskilling agenda involving universities, businesses, and the government. This requires continuously updating educational programs, promoting technical and digital education, and strengthening public-private partnerships.
Implementing Work-Based Learning Programs Companies should invest in practice-based learning. The German dual education model, where students combine theoretical learning with work experience, has been highly effective. Similar initiatives in Costa Rica can enhance workforce preparation.
Creating Tax Incentives for Skill Development The government could offer tax benefits to companies that invest in employee reskilling and upskilling programs. This approach would not only reduce unemployment but also enhance national competitiveness.
Leveraging Digital Platforms for Mass Training Digital education access is critical. Platforms like Coursera, edX, and LinkedIn Learning can play a crucial role in talent development. Companies and universities should leverage these tools to provide specialized courses and online certifications.
Strengthening Training in Strategic Sectors Costa Rica’s future workforce will depend on the country’s ability to develop talent in key sectors, including:
Cybersecurity and data analytics
Artificial intelligence and automation
Renewable energy and sustainability
Advanced manufacturing and medical devices
Digital transformation and e-commerce
Investing in these areas will secure employment for Costa Ricans and reinforce Costa Rica’s position as a prime destination for foreign investment.
A Path to Regional Leadership
A shared long-term vision can give Costa Rica a significant edge among Latin American nations striving to excel. The private sector and its alliances with key stakeholders are responsible for driving rapid, innovative action. By adopting global best practices, investing in continuous workforce development, and embracing a learning culture, Costa Rica can solidify its status as a regional leader in talent development and economic competitiveness.
United Airlines will start a new daily nonstop flight between Costa Rica’s Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO) and San Francisco International Airport (SFO) starting May 22, 2025, strengthening ties between Costa Rica and the U.S. West Coast. The route, announced last fall, promises to draw more American tourists to Costa Rica’s beaches, rainforests, and cultural hubs while offering Ticos easier access to California’s tech and cultural capital.
The inaugural flight departs San Francisco at 11:34 PM on May 22, landing in San José at 7:15 AM on May 23. The return leg leaves San José at 8:45 AM on May 23, arriving in San Francisco at 2:34 PM. All times are local. Operated by a Boeing 737 MAX 8, the aircraft seats 166 passengers, with 16 first-class seats in a 2-2 layout and 150 economy seats, including 54 with extra legroom. Every seat features a personal entertainment screen, and United plans to roll out high-speed Wi-Fi across its fleet in the coming years, though specifics for this route remain unconfirmed.
“This new flight connects Costa Rica to one of the United States’ most dynamic cities, a hub for innovation and tourism,” said William Rodríguez, Costa Rica’s Minister of Tourism. “The U.S. is our top travel market, and San Francisco’s visitors—often nature enthusiasts and families—align perfectly with our sustainable tourism goals.”
The route marks United’s seventh U.S. destination from San José, joining year-round flights to Houston and Newark, plus seasonal services to Chicago, Denver, Los Angeles, and Washington-Dulles. San Francisco’s addition responds to growing demand from both Costa Ricans and Americans, particularly those aged 29-39 with incomes of $100,000-$150,000, according to a Costa Rican Tourism Board study. These travelers, often college-educated and married with children, seek eco-friendly destinations rich in outdoor activities, culture, and cuisine—qualities Costa Rica delivers in spades.
For Costa Rica, the flight signals economic opportunity. Tourism accounts for roughly 8% of GDP, with U.S. visitors driving much of the sector’s growth. San Francisco, a gateway to Silicon Valley and Northern California’s wine country, attracts Ticos for business, education, and leisure. The overnight outbound schedule caters to leisure travelers, while the morning return suits business trips or quick getaways.
At Juan Santamaría Airport, officials see the route as part of a broader push to expand connectivity. “We’re thrilled to welcome United’s commitment to Costa Rica,” said an airport spokesperson. “This flight enhances our position as a regional leader in air travel.” United, already a dominant player in Central America with routes across Guatemala, Honduras, and Panama, solidifies its footprint with this year-round service.
Passengers can expect modern amenities aboard the MAX 8, though first-class seats are recliners, not lie-flat beds, reflecting the route’s focus on leisure over business travel. Booking is open now and travelers are advised to book early for peak periods.
Costa Rica commemorates the 169th anniversary of the Battle of Rivas today, honoring the heroes who defended this country’s sovereignty in 1856. Known as Juan Santamaría Day, this public holiday celebrates a pivotal victory against American mercenary William Walker, with festivities centered in Alajuela and across the country. From parades to museum tributes, here’s a short history less and also how Costa Rica is observing this historic milestone.
The Battle of Rivas, fought on April 11, 1856, in Nicaragua, was a defining moment in Costa Rica’s history. William Walker, a Tennessee-born filibuster backed by U.S. pro-slavery interests, had seized control of Nicaragua and set his sights on Costa Rica, aiming to create a slaveholding empire across Central America. Costa Rican President Juan Rafael Mora Porras rallied his people, declaring, “Countrymen, take your weapons,” as he mobilized nearly 10,000 troops—mostly farmers and laborers—to confront the threat.
The campaign began with a swift victory at the Battle of Santa Rosa in Guanacaste on March 20, 1856, where Costa Rican forces ousted Walker’s men from a hacienda in minutes. On April 10, the Battle of Sardinal pushed the filibusters back into Nicaragua. The stage was set for Rivas, where a 16-hour clash tested both sides. Walker’s forces, holed up in the Mesón de Guerra stronghold, held firm until General José María Cañas devised a bold plan to burn it down. After two soldiers fell trying, Juan Santamaría, a 19-year-old drummer from Alajuela, volunteered. He ignited the structure but was fatally shot, securing victory at the cost of his life.
Santamaría’s sacrifice turned the tide, weakening Walker’s campaign. Though he surrendered in 1857 and was later executed in Honduras in 1860, the battle’s legacy endures. It galvanized Central American unity and cemented Costa Rica’s identity as a nation of resilience. A cholera outbreak, sparked by contaminated wells in Rivas, later killed nearly 10% of Costa Rica’s population, casting a shadow over the triumph. Still, the victory remains a point of pride.
The Celebration
Alajuela, Santamaría’s birthplace, hosts the biggest celebrations. The city’s central park, where a bronze statue of the drummer stands since 1891, is the heart of the action. Morning parades feature schoolchildren dressed as 1856 soldiers, marching alongside bands playing patriotic hymns. A symbolic burning of a palm structure reenacts Santamaría’s act, drawing cheers from crowds. Civic ceremonies include wreath-layings and speeches by local leaders, emphasizing unity and courage.
San José ha its own events. The Legislative Assembly may convene a special session, as it did in Alajuela for the 168th anniversary, to reflect on the battle’s significance. The Juan Santamaría Historical Museum in Alajuela opens its doors for free, showcasing muskets, uniforms, and stories from the 1856 campaign. Evening talks or film screenings are planned, with some communities possibly streaming events online for broader access.
Smaller towns join in, too. Liberia and Puntarenas hold ceremonies honoring local fighters, while schools nationwide stage plays recreating the battle. Fireworks cap the night in many plazas, a nod to the victory’s joy. Social media buzz suggests Alajuela’s Cultural Center is organizing art contests inspired by Santamaría, adding a modern twist to the commemorations.
For visitors, today offers a chance to dive into Costa Rican culture. Alajuela’s parade, that started around 10 AM, was the prime spot—so I hope you staked out a place near the cathedral for the best view. The museum is a must, with exhibits that bring 1856 to life. Street vendors sell tamales and chorreadas, perfect for snacking while soaking up the festive vibe. Travelers elsewhere can check local squares for events; even rural areas like Nicoya host small reenactments.
Juan Santamaría Day is more than a holiday—it’s a testament to Costa Rica’s spirit. Santamaría, a humble son of a single mother, symbolizes the ordinary Tico who rises to extraordinary challenges. In a country like ours that’s embraced peace since abolishing its army in 1948, the battle underscores a hard-won independence.
U.S. troops will be allowed to deploy in areas adjacent to the Panama Canal, according to an agreement signed between the two nations—a significant concession to President Donald Trump, who has been determined to regain control of the strategic interoceanic waterway. The Panamanian government insists these are not military bases, a sensitive issue in the Central American country, as it recalls the era when the United States maintained an enclave with troops before handing over the canal to Panama on December 31, 1999.
Under the agreement, U.S. military personnel will be able to use “authorized” facilities and areas for “training,” “exercises,” and other activities, as outlined in the document signed by Panama’s Security Minister, Frank Ábrego, and Pentagon chief Pete Hegseth, who visited Panama this week.
The security pact includes photos of the authorized facilities, which encompass two naval air bases and an airport, located in areas previously occupied by U.S. military bases in the Canal Zone enclave. Since returning to power in January, Trump has threatened to “reclaim” the maritime route built by the United States, arguing it is under “Chinese influence.”
“We’re taking back the canal. China has had too much influence (…) together with Panama, we’re kicking them out, sir,” Hegseth told Trump on Thursday in Washington, briefing him on the agreement and the results of his visit. The three-year agreement, which can be extended, stipulates that the facilities remain the property of the Panamanian state and will be used jointly by the security forces of both countries.
Unacceptable
While visiting Lima on Thursday, Panama’s President José Raúl Mulino stated he rejected the Pentagon’s attempts to include terms like “permanent military presence,” “military bases,” and “territorial concessions” in the agreement. “That is simply unacceptable,” Mulino said, noting that he sent back “four versions” of the agreement drafted by the U.S. Department of Defense for this reason.
“You want trouble, (…) for the country to erupt?” Mulino recounted telling the Pentagon chief. Amid the tensions, Mulino’s government revealed that the United States removed a phrase recognizing Panama’s “inalienable sovereignty over the canal” from the English version of a joint statement. On Thursday, Panama requested Washington revise the statement to include it.
The canal is a source of national pride. Panama’s laws prohibit the establishment of foreign military bases, and the country dismantled its army following the U.S. invasion in December 1989 to capture former dictator Manuel Antonio Noriega, accused of drug trafficking.
Betrayal of the Homeland
During his visit to Panama, Hegseth had already raised the possibility of “reviving” a “military base,” sparking discontent in the country. Small groups of workers protested early Thursday, chanting slogans like “No bases.” “What’s happening here is a setback to national sovereignty. The Panamanian government’s actions are a betrayal of the homeland—they’re sellouts and should be judged,” said Saúl Méndez, a prominent union leader.
Foreign Minister Javier Martínez-Acha insisted Thursday that the agreement with the United States respects Panama’s Constitution and the canal treaties. “Not a single centimeter of sovereignty has been ceded. The agreement aims to establish broader cooperation on canal defense in case of tangible threats,” Martínez-Acha said.
The United States views the operation of two ports at the canal’s entrances by Hong Kong-based Hutchison Holdings as a “threat” to its security. Amid pressures, Panama conducted an audit that found Hutchison’s subsidiary breached its concession contract.
Hutchison announced a month ago that it would sell the concession of the two ports to a U.S. consortium, but the deal has yet to materialize due to an investigation by Chinese regulators.
