Ferry Service Returns After 40 Years
A new ferry service will begin operations next week between El Salvador and Costa Rica, reducing the travel time from four days to 16 hours. The ferry, named “Blue Wave Harmony”, will depart twice a week from the Salvadoran port of La Unión and the Costa Rican port of Caldera. The 170-meter ferry will have capacity to transport 100 trucks with goods, making it a viable solution for exporters. It will reduce losses from theft on roads, additional costs from bribes at border crossings, and wear and maintenance of cargo units.
The ferry service will also reduce customs processes from eight to two. However, some costs are expected to increase for exporters, as the ferry fare is approximately $2,200. The ferry service was established after Honduras closed its border with El Salvador in 1969, and ceased operations after the two countries signed a peace treaty in 1980.
Double Drowning Tragedy Strikes Costa Rica Beaches
Two female tourists from the United States tragically drowned at popular beaches along Costa Rica’s Pacific Coast within a 48-hour period. A 62-year-old woman drowned at Dominical Beach on Tuesday morning, while a 53-year-old woman drowned at Bejuco Beach on Wednesday morning. Despite rescue attempts, both women were pronounced dead at the scenes.
The identities of the victims have not yet been released pending family notification. These tragic events highlight the importance of beach safety precautions, such as swimming at beaches with lifeguards and clearly marked areas, as well as knowing how to escape rip currents. Costa Rican officials urge tourists to put safety first when going into the ocean, as over a dozen drowning deaths have occurred so far this year during dangerous swimming conditions.
Owner Of Hotel Del Rey Passed Away
John Clark Emerson, founder and co-owner of the Hotel Del Rey in downtown San Jose, Costa Rica, passed away this weekend at age 84. Since opening in the 1990s, the 104-room hotel and its 24-hour bar, casino, and restaurant became a popular spot for tourists and locals, known for allowing women of “a certain age and business interest” to frequent the bar area.
The hotel was an epicenter of San Jose nightlife back then, attracting travelers who were clients of “The Brothers” investment scheme. Emerson and his partner also bought up several local bars, including Key Largo. Often found seated in the hotel lobby, Emerson ran a tight ship and was a private person. With his passing, a piece of San Jose folklore also goes. While still open, the Hotel Del Rey no longer has the casino and restaurant.
Costa Rica Expands Health Coverage to Asylum Seekers and Refugees
In a major step to protect the health of asylum seekers and refugees, Costa Rica has established a Collective Insurance Framework allowing them to access the country’s public health system. Through an agreement between multiple government agencies, the UN Refugee Agency, the Spanish Embassy, and the EU, vulnerable migrants can now receive medical services from the Costa Rican Social Security Fund.
The coverage excludes certain areas like pensions but otherwise enables access to quality, dignified healthcare. With a budget of over 1.3 million euros from the EU, this agreement shows Costa Rica’s commitment to safeguarding migrant populations. While exclusions apply, it is an important development in ensuring refugees and asylum seekers have their basic health needs met.
