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COSTA RICA'S LEADING ENGLISH LANGUAGE NEWSPAPER

U.S. Troops to Deploy Near Panama Canal Under New Agreement

AFP
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U.S. Troops to Deploy Near Panama Canal Under New Agreement

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.

Costa Rica Faces Mexico in Group A of 2025 Concacaf Gold Cup

Tico Times
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Costa Rica Faces Mexico in Group A of 2025 Concacaf Gold Cup

The Costa Rican National Team, La Sele, learned its fate for the 2025 Concacaf Gold Cup during Thursday’s official draw in Miami. Placed in Group A, Costa Rica will face defending champion Mexico, Suriname, and the Dominican Republic in what promises to be a exciting group stage. The tournament, Concacaf’s premier competition, will run from June 14 to July 6 across 14 venues in the United States and Canada.

Leading La Sele is Mexican coach Miguel “Piojo” Herrera, who faces an emotional and professional challenge as he takes on his home country for the first time. Mexico, with nine Gold Cup titles, is the most successful team in the tournament’s history, followed by the United States with seven and Canada with one. For Herrera, the matchup is personal but also a chance to prove Costa Rica’s mettle. “At the outset, we have to give it our all.

We are up against the strongest team, but we are ready to deliver that authoritative blow,” Herrera declared, as reported by the Costa Rican Football Federation. “We have to believe it because we have what we need. If we didn’t, I would be the first fool. I think we have the right players to fight and win it.”

Herrera, who took charge of Costa Rica in January following the departure of Argentine Gustavo Alfaro, brings a wealth of experience. A former player and coach for Mexico, he led El Tri to the 2015 Gold Cup title and the round of 16 at the 2014 World Cup. Now, he aims to guide Costa Rica to its first Gold Cup championship. “Costa Rica must show that it is one of the powerhouses in this region, advance from the group stage, and aim to win the Gold Cup,” he emphasized.

The 2025 Gold Cup, the last major competitive event for Mexico, the United States, and Canada before they co-host the 2026 World Cup, will feature 16 teams across four groups:

  • Group A: Mexico, Costa Rica, Suriname, Dominican Republic
  • Group B: Canada, Honduras, El Salvador, Curaçao
  • Group C: Panama, Jamaica, Guatemala, Guadeloupe
  • Group D: United States, Haiti, Trinidad and Tobago, Saudi Arabia (invited team)

The group stage, set for June 14 to 24, will see the top two teams from each group advance to the knockout rounds. Quarterfinals are scheduled for June 28 and 29, semifinals on July 2, and the final on July 6 at Houston’s NRG Stadium. The tournament kicks off at Inglewood’s SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles, with Mexico among the opening match participants. Five venues—AT&T Stadium, BC Place, Levi’s Stadium, NRG Stadium, and SoFi Stadium—are also 2026 World Cup sites, while three stadiums will host Gold Cup matches for the first time.

For Costa Rica, advancing from Group A will require a stellar performance against a formidable Mexico side, fresh off its Concacaf Nations League title in March, and two competitive Caribbean teams. The match schedule, including the highly anticipated Costa Rica-Mexico clash, will be announced on Friday.

As La Sele prepares for the summer showdown, Herrera’s confidence resonates with fans eager to see Costa Rica contend for the elusive title. With the Gold Cup unfolding alongside the new FIFA Club World Cup (June 14 to July 13), the stage is set for a dramatic tournament that could cement Costa Rica’s place among Concacaf’s elite.

US Defense Chief’s Idea for Military Presence at Panama Canal Sparks Backlash

AFP
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US Defense Chief’s Idea for Military Presence at Panama Canal Sparks Backlash

US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth floated the idea on Wednesday of US troops returning to Panama to “secure” its strategically vital canal, a suggestion quickly shot down by the Central American country’s government.  Hegseth suggested during a visit to Panama that “by invitation” the United States could “revive” military bases or naval air stations and rotate deployments of US troops to an isthmus the United States invaded 35 years ago.

He also said his country was seeking free passage through the canal for its Navy ships — which US President Donald Trump had said were “severely overcharged and not treated fairly in any way, shape or form.” Trump, since coming to power in January, has repeatedly claimed that China has too much influence over the canal, which handles about 40 percent of US container traffic and five percent of world trade. 

His administration has vowed to “take back” control of the strategic waterway that the United States funded, built and controlled until 1999. Hegseth suggested on Wednesday the slew of former US military bases that dot Panama could be used again to host US troops. 

He said a deal signed with Panama this week was an “opportunity to revive, whether it’s the military base, naval air station, locations where US troops can work with Panamanian troops to enhance capabilities and cooperate in a rotational way.” Hegseth cited the possibility of “joint exercises” but the mention of a “rotational” force is likely to raise the hackles of Panamanians, for whom sole ownership of the canal is a source of intense national pride. 

The United States has long participated in military exercises in Panama. However, a longer-term rotational force — such as the one the United States maintains in Darwin, Australia — is politically toxic for Panama’s center-right leader Jose Raul Mulino.   His government quickly slapped down the idea.

“Panama made clear, through President Mulino that we cannot accept military bases or defense sites,” said Panama security minister Frank Abrego in a joint public appearance with Hegseth.

Perceived threat

Hegseth also said the United States was seeking an agreement under which its warships could pass through the canal “first, and free.” Jose Ramon Icaza, Panama’s Minister for Canal Affairs, said “we will seek a mechanism by which warships and auxiliary ships can have a compensation system for services, that is, a way to make them cost-neutral” but not “free.”

The independent Panama Canal Authority (PCA) that manages the waterway said in a statement on Wednesday that it was seeking a “cost-neutral scheme” to “compensate services rendered in security matters for warship tolls.” Under current treaties, the canal is open to all nations and all vessels must pay the same rates according to their capacity and cargo, regardless of their country of origin or destination.

The PCA said the United States recognized Panamanian sovereignty over the waterway, although Hegseth did not mention it in the news conference. The Pentagon chief’s two-day visit has been peppered with comments about China and its influence in Latin America.

He said the United States was not looking for war with China but would counter Beijing’s “threats” to the region. “We do not seek war with China. And war with China is certainly not inevitable. We do not seek it in any form,” Hegseth said. “But together, we must prevent war by robustly and vigorously deterring China’s threats in this hemisphere,” the former Fox News anchor said in a speech.

Bullying nature

China hit back after Hegseth’s comments, saying US officials “maliciously attacked China… exposing the United States’ bullying nature.” Trump has zeroed in on the role of a Hong Kong company that has operated ports at either end of the canal linking the Atlantic and Pacific oceans for decades.

Hegseth asserted that China-based companies are also capturing Latin American land and infrastructure in strategic sectors such as energy and telecommunications, and that China has too large a military presence in the hemisphere.  “Make no mistake, Beijing is investing and operating in this region for military advantage and unfair economic gain,” Hegseth said.

Under pressure from the White House, Panama has accused Hong Kong-backed Panama Ports Company of failing to meet its contractual obligations and pushed for the firm to pull out of the country. The firm rejected on Wednesday an audit that said it had failed to pay $1.2 billion due under its concession.

The ports’ parent company CK Hutchison announced last month a deal to offload 43 ports in 23 countries — including its two on the Panama Canal — to a consortium led by US asset manager BlackRock for $19 billion in cash. A furious Beijing has since announced an antitrust review of the deal.

The United States invaded Panama in 1989 to oust dictator Manuel Noriega, killing more than 500 Panamanians and razing parts of the capital. 

Northern Jacana Birds Walk Costa Rican Waters with Giant Feet and Reversed Gender Roles

Tico Times
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Northern Jacana Birds Walk Costa Rican Waters with Giant Feet and Reversed Gender Roles

Today we meet the northern jacana, a little water bird with huge feet and an interesting sex life. The northern jacana (Jacana spinosa) is known as the cirujano, mulita, or gallito de agua in Spanish. All of those names are fine, but I like what George Edwards, an English naturalist, came up with he described it in 1743, ‘spur-winged water hen.’

Northern jacanas are pretty little birds. They have a chestnut-maroon body and black heads. They have bright yellow beaks, a yellow shield on their foreheads, and a bright yellow spur on the leading edge of both wings. All of this can be readily observed via binoculars. What could be missed, because most of the time they are somewhat submerged in water, are their enormous feet, or more accurately, extremely long toes. These long toes and toenails allow them to distribute their bodyweight more evenly over floating vegetation, allowing them to walk across lily pads and the like without sinking.

These birds can be found calling loudly around wetlands from Mexico to Panama. They prefer calm, slow-flowing water. In Costa Rica they can be found along ponds, marshes, slow-flowing rivers, and flooded pastures throughout the country. They are particularly abundant in Guanacaste in the Tempisque basin and in the Río Frío area. They patrol the water’s edge and areas with floating vegetation in these environments in search of insects, snails, worms, small fish, and seeds.

Northern jacanas are unusual among birds in that they have a polyandrous breeding system. That means a single female mates with several males in a single breeding season. A female northern jacana has a territory that encompasses the smaller territories of several males. During breeding season, she mates with each male and produces a clutch of eggs for each one. The male jacanas are responsible for building the nest and incubating the clutch of four beautiful brown eggs covered in black scrawls. It is the job of both sexes to defend the territory of the nest from nest predators, which they do using the bright yellow boney spur on their wings.

I did some searching in the literature for some interesting tidbits about northern jacanas in Costa Rica. I found two interesting studies. One looked at which bird species the breeding jacanas were most frequently defending their nests from. There were a bunch of species listed but the most common foe with around 80% of the territorial disputes was the purple gallinule, an innocuous-looking, bright purple bird that apparently has a taste for northern jacana eggs and hatchlings. The second study compared the activity of northern jacanas when they were in flocks of purely jacanas and when they were in mixed flock with other species of birds. They found that jacanas in mixed flocks spent more time foraging and less time scanning for predators, apparently benefitting from the attentiveness of the other species.

Most of my northern jacana interactions came from a single property in Guanacaste. This property had a large crocodile-filled pond in a grassy area with big patches of floating vegetation in it, perfect northern jacana habitat. I recorded many videos with jacanas from the cameras I placed along the water’s edge. Frequently the jacanas would be foraging amongst a group of other species of birds which I never really considered as interesting behavior until I read the study mentioned above. Take a look at a few of my favorite northern jacana videos from that pond below.

About the Author

Vincent Losasso, founder of Guanacaste Wildlife Monitoring, is a biologist who works with camera traps throughout Costa Rica.

Costa Rica’s Best Beaches: A Guide to Paradise

The Tico Times
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Costa Rica’s Best Beaches: A Guide to Paradise

Living in Costa Rica, I’ve spent countless weekends exploring our coasts, from the Pacific’s sandy stretches to the Caribbean’s coral-lined shores. Each beach has its own feel, shaped by the people, wildlife, and waves you find there. This guide picks six favorites worth checking out, based on trips I’ve taken and what travelers are saying lately.

1. Playa Conchal

Just north of Tamarindo, Playa Conchal is known for its unique white sand, made of finely crushed shells, which borders a calm turquoise bay perfect for swimming and snorkeling. A 10-minute drive from Tamarindo via a paved road, the beach offers parking near Playa Brasilito, with early arrival securing the best spots. Its quieter vibe compared to nearby beaches draws those seeking a peaceful escape, with shallow waters safe for families and shade from coastal trees. Local vendors sell fresh coconut water, adding a welcoming touch to the relaxed atmosphere.

The beach’s pristine condition stems from community efforts to protect its natural beauty, with minimal development preserving the shoreline. The Westin Playa Conchal Resort, tucked back among greenery, blends seamlessly into the landscape. Snorkeling gear rentals are available for exploring the bay’s small coral patches, and the dry season (December–April) offers clear skies and calm seas. Playa Conchal’s serene setting and easy access make it a top choice for a laid-back day by the ocean.

Aerial View of Conchal Beach Costa Rica
(Courtesy of James Kaiser)
Conchal Beach Costa Rica
(Courtesy of James Kaiser)

2. Manuel Antonio

Inside Manuel Antonio National Park, this beach is sheltered by Punta Catedral, a rocky outcrop that calms the waves, creating safe swimming conditions. A 10-minute drive from Quepos, the beach is accessed through the park’s entrance, where a small fee covers trails and shore access. Clear paths and amenities like restrooms and showers make it family-friendly, and guided tours enhance wildlife sightings, from white-faced monkeys to rare squirrel monkeys. The beach’s gentle slope and picnic areas suit day trips, with midweek visits avoiding crowds.

The park’s rich biodiversity, including sloths, iguanas, and howler monkeys, thrives due to careful conservation, keeping the area clean and inviting. Recent upgrades, like better signage and waste bins, improve the visitor experience while protecting the environment. Bringing water and snacks is recommended, as park vendors are limited. The green season (May–November) brings lush scenery, though the dry season ensures sunnier days. Manuel Antonio’s blend of natural beauty and accessibility makes it a favorite for those seeking wildlife and coastal charm in one visit.

Aerial View of Costa Rica's Manuel Antonio Beach
(Courtesy of James Kaiser)
Manuel Antonio Beach Costa Rica
(Courtesy of James Kaiser)
Aerial View of Manuel Antonio Costa Rica
(Courtesy of James Kaiser)

3. Playa Flamingo

North of Playa Conchal, Playa Flamingo offers soft, pale sand and gentle waves, ideal for families and relaxed beachgoers. A 20-minute drive from Tamarindo, it provides ample parking and nearby amenities, including beachfront restaurants serving fresh ceviche. Its westward orientation delivers vivid sunsets, best enjoyed from the sand or local spots like Coco Loco. Kayak rentals and fishing charters cater to active visitors, while the calm waters suit casual swimming or paddleboarding, making it versatile for all ages.

The beach’s clean shores and safe conditions result from local efforts to maintain its appeal, with upscale homes and condos lining the hills for a refined yet approachable vibe. Restaurants and activities like scuba diving at the nearby Catalina Islands add variety, with new eco-focused dining options emerging recently. The dry season (December–April) is peak for sunny weather, but the green season offers quieter sands and lush surroundings. Playa Flamingo’s mix of natural beauty and modern comforts ensures a polished coastal experience for those seeking relaxation with a touch of luxury.

Aerial view of Costa Rica's Flamingo Beach
(Courtesy of James Kaiser)
Morning at Flamingo Beach Costa Rica
(Courtesy of James Kaiser)
Sunset at Costa Rica's Flamingo Beach
(Courtesy of James Kaiser)

4. Tamarindo

Tamarindo, a lively coastal town, draws crowds with its beginner-friendly surf breaks and vibrant nightlife. An hour from Liberia’s airport, it’s easily reachable, with parking and surf shops along the main strip. Nearby Las Baulas National Park protects leatherback sea turtles nesting from October to February, and guided night tours offer a chance to see this natural spectacle. Local spots like Nogui’s serve Tico dishes, while bars with live music keep the energy high, appealing to surfers, backpackers, and families alike.

Community efforts keep the beach clean and welcoming despite its popularity, with recent additions like eco-friendly hotels enhancing the experience. Surf schools, such as Witch’s Rock, offer lessons tailored for beginners, and bike rentals make exploring easy. The dry season brings bigger crowds and ideal waves, but the green season offers quieter shores and vibrant greenery. Tamarindo’s dynamic blend of adventure, wildlife, and culture makes it a go-to for those wanting an active beach getaway with Costa Rican flair.

Surfing in Tamarindo Costa Rica
(Courtesy of James Kaiser)
Aerial view of Costa Rica's Tamarindo Beach
(Courtesy of James Kaiser)
Sunset at Tamarindo Beach Costa Rica
(Courtesy of James Kaiser)

5. Punta Uva

South of Puerto Viejo on the Caribbean coast, Punta Uva lies within the Gandoca-Manzanillo Wildlife Refuge, where golden sand and clear waters create a tranquil setting. A 20-minute drive from Puerto Viejo, the beach is split by Red Cliff, a lush headland, offering two shores for snorkeling among coral reefs or relaxing under palms. Free parking lines the dirt roads, and nearby cafes like Pita Bonita serve Caribbean specialties. Monkeys and sloths frequent the trees, adding a wild charm to the serene escape.

The area’s pristine state owes to conservation efforts, with reintroduced great green macaws now thriving overhead, a testament to local wildlife protection. Recent eco-lodges and bike rentals add sustainable comfort while keeping the low-key vibe. The Caribbean’s dry season (September–October) is best for snorkeling, though the green season brings lush jungle views. Packing sunscreen and water is wise, as amenities are sparse. Punta Uva’s natural beauty and ecological focus make it ideal for travelers seeking a quiet, nature-rich beach day.

Kids playing at Costa Rica's Punta Uva Beach
(Courtesy of James Kaiser)
Punta Uva Beach Costa Rica
(Courtesy of James Kaiser)
A Boat at Punta Uva beach Costa Rica
(Courtesy of James Kaiser)

6. Santa Teresa

At the southern tip of the Nicoya Peninsula, Santa Teresa is known for its golden beaches and world-class surf, attracting surfers and free-spirited travelers. A 5-hour drive from San José or a ferry from Puntarenas, improved roads have eased access while preserving its remote feel. The main beach offers consistent waves, while Playa Carmen nearby has calmer waters for swimming. Local eateries like Olam Pure Food serve healthy fare, and yoga classes reflect the town’s bohemian spirit, drawing a tight-knit community.

The coastline’s clean, inviting state stems from local commitment to its natural beauty, with small resorts emphasizing eco-friendly practices. The dry season (December–April) is peak for surfing, but the green season brings quieter beaches and lush trails for hiking in nearby Mal País. Cash is recommended, as ATMs are limited. Santa Teresa’s mix of adventure, natural splendor, and laid-back vibes creates an authentic, off-the-grid experience for those seeking a coastal retreat with a touch of “pura vida.”

Aerial View of Santa Teresa Beach Costa Rica
(Courtesy of James Kaiser)
Surfing at Santa Teresa Costa Rica
(Courtesy of James Kaiser)
Santa Teresa Beach Costa Rica
(Courtesy of James Kaiser)

This is a fully revised version of our 2015 guide, updated with 2025 insights by our local team

Costa Rica Orders President Chaves to End Political Belligerence Before Elections

AFP
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Costa Rica Orders President Chaves to End Political Belligerence Before Elections

The Supreme Electoral Tribunal (TSE) of Costa Rica ordered President Rodrigo Chaves on Wednesday to refrain from engaging in political belligerence that could influence the upcoming presidential and legislative elections in February. Chaves, who cannot seek re-election because it is prohibited consecutively, is being investigated by the TSE for alleged electoral bias as he is accused by a citizen of trying to influence in favor of candidates from his own party.

In a statement, the TSE announced that it “has taken as a precautionary measure” to request that Chaves “refrain from making demonstrations or engaging in acts that could jeopardize” the impartiality of the government ahead of the elections, as guaranteed by the Constitution.

In an unusual power struggle within the State in this country, known for its democratic tradition, the head of state—whose populist, hardline leadership profile boosts his poll numbers—has conflicts with the Public Prosecutor’s Office, the Judiciary, and Congress, who accuse him of authoritarian drifts.

“Do they really think they can silence this government? (…) You know what? You know what? They screwed up! (…) Here I am, I’m not hiding!” Chaves challenged on Wednesday, asserting that he speaks on behalf of the “people.” The 63-year-old former World Bank official has expressed his desire for his party to secure an absolute majority in Congress in 2026 to implement a series of reforms that, according to him, are necessary for the country.

The TSE warned that if the president does not adhere to electoral impartiality, he will be committing the crime of “disobedience” and has given him a period of three days to respond to the accusations made in the complaint. “He is forbidden from using public resources—of any nature—to influence the free will of the voters,” the court warned.

Chaves’ associates do not rule out that he might seek a seat in the Legislative Assembly, and during recent marches he supported, portraits of several of his collaborators who could potentially aspire to the presidency or a seat in Congress were displayed. The president frequently attacks deputies, judges, prosecutors, and journalists or media outlets that are critical of his administration, which began in 2022.

Costa Rica and El Salvador Team Up for High-Security Prison Project

Tico Times
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Costa Rica and El Salvador Team Up for High-Security Prison Project

Costa Rica’s Minister of Justice and Peace, Gerald Campos, has unveiled a landmark cooperation agreement with El Salvador that promises to slash the cost of a new prison by nearly $25 million. The deal, announced this week, follows Campos’ official visit to El Salvador, where he secured architectural plans and technical expertise from the Salvadoran penitentiary system.

Campos led a delegation to study El Salvador’s high-security Center for the Confinement of Terrorism (CECOT)—a mega-prison built under President Nayib Bukele to house gang members—and the Centro de Rehabilitación para la Oportunidad (CERO OCIO), a facility focused on inmate rehabilitation. The mission aimed to strengthen bilateral ties and design a cost-efficient, secure prison model for Costa Rica.

“Initially, we estimated the new penitentiary would cost around $60 million,” Campos said. “Thanks to this agreement, we’ve reduced that to approximately $35 million. We’re working to identify financing sources and deliver a safer, more efficient Costa Rica.” Meetings with El Salvador’s Minister of Justice and Public Security and technical teams solidified plans for reciprocal cooperation in prison discipline, security, social reintegration, employment programs, and crime prevention.

The new facility will include 1,000 maximum-security spaces to bolster control over high-risk inmates, Campos added. He also issued a stern warning to telephone operators, threatening criminal charges if they fail to block mobile signals within prison grounds—a measure aimed at curbing illegal activity behind bars.

President Rodrigo Chaves underscored the project’s urgency, tying it to anticipated legal reforms. “We’re preparing the penitentiary system for when the Judiciary and Legislative Assembly address legal gaps,” Chaves said. “Right now, we could build any prison, but it would sit empty under current laws. We’re setting the stage to lock up criminals instead of leaving them on the streets.” Though he didn’t elaborate, Chaves appeared to hint at next year’s elections, where a pro-government legislative majority could pave the way for tougher sentencing laws and judicial appointments aligned with his administration.

Details such as the prison’s location and construction timeline remain undisclosed, but the initiative reflects growing concerns over our country’s rising crime rates, including a record 17.2 homicides per 100,000 people in 2024. By adopting elements of El Salvador’s controversial yet effective prison model, Costa Rica aims to tackle organized crime and hopefully improve public safety.

New Salamander Species Discovered in Costa Rica’s Talamanca Mountains

Tico Times
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New Salamander Species Discovered in Costa Rica’s Talamanca Mountains

As a Costa Rican, I’ve always known our little country punches above its weight when it comes to nature. Now, we’ve got two more reasons to brag: Bolitoglossa chiquitica and Bolitoglossa silentium, tiny salamanders we’ve just discovered in our own Talamanca Mountains. With these finds, Costa Rica claims 58 salamander species, putting us sixth in the world for these quirky amphibians—pretty impressive for a place closer to the equator than the cold northern forests where they usually hang out.

These newcomers live high in Talamanca’s misty peaks, a wild corner of our country that keeps surprising us. B. chiquitica popped up in 2013 after a tough five-day trek up Cerro Utyum on the Caribbean slope. B. silentium—named for our silent valleys—first showed itself back in 2008 during an eight-hour hike to the Valle del Silencio Biological Station. We’ve only spotted four of chiquitica and two of silentium. “They’re like finding needles in a haystack,” said our own Erick Arias, a researcher who’s been exploring Talamanca’s jungles for years.

Unlike frogs we see in our streams, these salamanders skip the tadpole stage, hatching straight from eggs as mini adults. They don’t even have lungs—breathing through their skin, soaking up the damp air we know so well in our forests. They’re part of the Bolitoglossa family, stretching from Mexico to Brazil, hunting bugs to keep pests down while feeding birds and lizards in our food chain.

It took years to prove these were new to science. After first sightings, we paused—needing more proof. Expeditions to Cerro Echandi and even Panama’s Cerro Fábregas helped us compare them to others, confirming they’re ours to claim. “Talamanca’s diversity is something we all feel proud of,” one researcher said, “but without knowing what’s here, how do we protect it from disappearing forests or hotter days?”

For us Ticos, this is a call to cherish what’s in our backyard. Talamanca might not get the hype of Arenal or Manuel Antonio, but it’s a goldmine for science and anyone who loves our wild side. There’s more out there, and we need to keep looking—and guarding it. Next time you’re in the highlands, peek under a leaf—you might spot one of these shy, skin-breathing wonders we’re just getting to know!

Costa Rican Football Drama: Weekly Liga FPD Roundup

Isaac Roblett
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Costa Rican Football Drama: Weekly Liga FPD Roundup

With just six matchdays of the regular Clausura season remaining, things are really starting to heat up in Costa Rican football. So, we’re kicking off a weekly roundup of all the drama and key moments from the Liga FPD. In the first match of the round on Saturday, seventh place Pérez Zeledón defeated second-bottom San Carlos away from home, thanks to goals from Uruguayan defensive midfielder Joaquín Aguirre (his 14th of the season) and veteran center-back Kevin Fajardo. San Carlos top goal scorer Brian Martínez was also sent off late on to further compound their woes.

Bottom-place Santa Ana (in both the Clausura and aggregate table) and tenth-placed Guanacasteca played out a goalless draw. On Sunday, Deportivo Saprissa secured a vital 1-0 victory away to ninth-placed Sporting San José thanks to an early goal from former Tico stalwart Kendall Waston, which leaves them in fifth position, one spot off the play-offs, joint on points with fourth-placed Cartaginés, who themselves earned a valuable point at Herediano. Los Azules took the lead early in the second half through midfielder Douglas López before loanee defender Diego Mesén scored an own goal with 13 minutes to play to ensure the match ended all square.

The dropped points for Herediano meant that Puntarenas leapt to the top of the league thanks to a 1-1 draw away to Liberia. The home side equalized late on through Mexican Jesús Henestrosa after midfielder Dariel Castrillo put Puntarenas ahead just before half-time.

In Monday’s match, L.D. Alajuelense beat Santos de Guápiles at home thanks to a double from forward Jonathan Moya meaning they sit level on points with Herediano in third, one point behind Puntarenas.

Team of the Week: Liga Deportiva Alajuelense

La Liga eased to a comfortable win over a solid Santos de Guápiles side with a dominant display, keeping a clean sheet and conceding just one shot on their goal, keeping themselves within touching distance of the top spot.

Join us next week for more from the ever-exciting world of Costa Rican top flight football!

Costa Rica Currency Update: Tourism Dip Drives Dollar Surge

Tico Times
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0
Costa Rica Currency Update: Tourism Dip Drives Dollar Surge

Costa Rica’s exchange rate has defied expectations, climbing steadily after months of stability near ¢500. Two weeks ago, the dollar traded at ¢500.16, but by Monday it reached ¢511.43—a daily rise not recently seen here. Economists warn this shift, driven by declining tourism and U.S. trade policies, could signal tougher times ahead for the colón.

The Central Bank of Costa Rica (BCCR) reported in early 2025 that the colón was appreciating, thanks to robust dollar inflows. Yet, recent Foreign Exchange Market (MONEX) trends suggest otherwise. Two factors stand out: the high tourism season’s end, with a reported 15% drop in visitors this December-February compared to last year, and a trade “shock” from new U.S. tariffs unveiled in March. These measures, possibly a 10% levy on Costa Rican exports, aim to keep capital in the U.S., Costa Rica’s top trading partner.

From March 26 to April 7, the rate rose daily, fueled by weaker dollar inflows from tourism and seasonal exports like pineapples and coffee. Luis Vargas, a researcher at the University of Costa Rica, called it a “slow-cooking” global shift, not a catastrophe, that will gradually depreciate the colón in real terms.

Analysts predict the rate will stabilize between ¢520 and ¢530 by year’s end, dismissing fears of a spike to ¢600 or ¢700. Economist Alberto Franco cautioned that sudden U.S. policy twists—like further tariff hikes—could disrupt this forecast. Meanwhile, the BCCR has stayed silent on countermeasures, despite past interventions like a $17 million dollar purchase in March to curb appreciation.

Businesses here in Costa Rica are feeling the pinch, with importers eyeing price hikes. As of now, no new rate data has emerged, but the trend underscores our country’s ongoing vulnerability to external pressures.

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