Latest news with #CostaRicans
Yahoo
26-05-2025
- Science
- Yahoo
Vanishing May Beetles: Scientists Issue Dire Warning
Costa Rican scientists are sounding the alarm as a once-abundant insect species edges toward collapse. Known locally as abejones de mayo, or May beetles, these beetles have long been a sign that the rainy season is near. But this year, they're conspicuously absent. According to The Cool Down, the May beetle population has reportedly plummeted by as much as 95% over the past 40 years, University of Costa Rica biologist Andres Arias told The Tico Times. 'For many Costa Ricans, spotting abejones buzzing around porch lights marked the start of the rains,' he said. 'Now, they're a fleeting memory.' Researchers point to a combination of rising global temperatures, rampant pesticide use, and rapid urbanization as the culprits behind this sharp decline. Costa Rica's heavy pesticide use, reportedly the highest per capita in Latin America, has been especially damaging. As warming alters rainfall patterns and disrupts seasonal cues the beetles depend on, their population struggles to recover. Arias and his colleagues warn that if action isn't taken soon, May beetles could vanish entirely. 'Losing them means losing a piece of who we are—and a warning we can't ignore,' he emphasized. Their disappearance mirrors a troubling global trend: insect populations worldwide have been dropping at alarming rates. A 2023 study from the University of California, Riverside, found that insect numbers globally have fallen by approximately 45% over the last four decades. The World Wildlife Fund has warned that as many as 40% of insect species could face extinction by century's end. Insects make up roughly 80% of Earth's animal life and play a vital role in maintaining ecosystems. They pollinate plants, feed on pests, and provide nourishment for countless other species. The loss of a single species can ripple through entire ecosystems. Costa Rican lawmakers are now considering a bill to ban pesticides deemed highly toxic by the World Health Organization, a move conservationists hope will help preserve the May beetles and other threatened insect species. The stakes couldn't be higher. As Arias put it, 'Losing them means losing a piece of who we are.' Vanishing May Beetles: Scientists Issue Dire Warning first appeared on Men's Journal on May 26, 2025
Yahoo
25-05-2025
- Science
- Yahoo
Scientists issue urgent warning after witnessing collapse of iconic insect species: 'Losing them means losing a piece of who we are'
A rapid decline has Costa Rican conservationists concerned about the future of an iconic beetle species. For generations, the arrival of abejones de mayo, otherwise known as May beetles, has meant the May rainy season is set to begin in Costa Rica. But now, as The Tico Times reported, fewer are showing up each year. Researchers estimate that the May beetle population has decreased by as much as 95% over the last 40 years. "For many Costa Ricans, spotting abejones buzzing around porch lights marked the start of the rains," University of Costa Rica biologist Andres Arias told the Times. "Now, they're a fleeting memory." Scientists say three factors are largely responsible for this decline: rising global temperatures, widespread urbanization, and rampant pesticide use. As the planet warms due to human-caused pollution, the rainfall and other seasonal cues these beetles rely on have changed, uprooting their lives. And that has been exacerbated by the heavy use of chemical-laden pesticides. Costa Rica uses more pesticides on a per capita basis than any other Latin American country. Experts warn that if things don't change soon, the May beetles might not survive. "Losing them means losing a piece of who we are — and a warning we can't ignore," Arias told The Tico Times. This is part of a troubling trend occurring worldwide as insect populations plummet across the globe. Insects make up about 80% of Earth's animal life and are crucial to our planet's health. They pollinate plants, giving life to flowers, fruits, and vegetables. They feed on plants and animals, including other insects, helping keep population levels in check. And they are the primary food source of many other animals. Do you worry about getting diseases from bug bites? Absolutely Only when I'm camping or hiking Not really Never Click your choice to see results and speak your mind. But a 2023 analysis by the University of California, Riverside, found that, during the same 40-year time span as the May beetle's decline, global insect populations have fallen by about 45%. And the World Wildlife Fund warns that up to 40% of insect species could become extinct by the end of this century. One bill currently being discussed by Costa Rican lawmakers would go a long way toward saving the May beetle, as it would ban pesticides that meet the World Health Organization's criteria for high toxicity. And conservationists hope that these dwindling population numbers will prompt other action to preserve beetles and their habitats. There are examples of such action working. For example, researchers in Nebraska have noticed an increase in American burying beetle numbers, the first population increase in more than 35 years. Join our free newsletter for good news and useful tips, and don't miss this cool list of easy ways to help yourself while helping the planet.
Qatar Tribune
09-05-2025
- Business
- Qatar Tribune
Nature, Culture, and Connection: Costa Rica strengthens bilateral relations with Qatar
Ashraf Siddiqui HE Juan Carlos Esquivel, ambassador of Costa Rica to Qatar, while addressing members of the Costa Rican community in Doha on Thursday, highlighted the nation's cultural richness, unique agricultural innovations, and the deepening diplomatic relationship between Costa Rica and Qatar. The event featured a vibrant showcase of Costa Rican heritage, including the rare and visually striking pink pineapple—a sweet, lab-developed fruit retailing in Qatar for QR 50 and known to sell for as much as $100 in Japan. The guests also enjoyed authentic Costa Rican dishes and a curated selection of local coffees, catering to both bold and mild palates. Ambassador Esquivel underscored Costa Rica's natural appeal, describing its essence as 'gold, green, and water.' He invited the Qatari people and the residents to experience the country through its pristine beaches, misty mountains, lush forests, and thriving biodiversity, emphasising that Costa Rica offers an immersive, nature-first alternative to urban tourism. 'Enjoy the forest, embrace a tree, breathe the fresh morning air—that's Costa Rica,' he said. A central theme of his address was Pura Vida, the emblematic Costa Rican phrase that translates to 'pure life'. More than a greeting, Pura Vida reflects a national philosophy of optimism, gratitude, and simplicity, resonating in everyday life and interactions. The ambassador also discussed the growing cooperation between Costa Rica and Qatar, noting the agreements signed during a high-level Qatari visit to San José. These include academic exchanges, scientific collaboration, and tourism development. Drawing on Costa Rica's extensive experience in eco-tourism, he emphasised the importance of managing not only tourist arrivals but also the entire visitor experience—transportation, waste management, and cultural engagement. Addressing perceptions of the Gulf region, Esquivel called for stronger storytelling to share the richness of Qatari culture with the world, pointing out Costa Rica's expertise in building compelling narratives that showcase a nation's beauty. He further credited Costa Rica's high literacy rate and innovation to its post-1948 decision to abolish the military and redirect defence spending to education. This, he said, has enabled Costa Ricans to contribute meaningfully to global industries, including tech giants like Intel. Closing his remarks, Esquivel praised the achievements of the Costa Rican diaspora in Qatar and encouraged ongoing connection. He extended a warm invitation to the global community to live and work remotely from Costa Rica—where Pura Vida is more than a phrase; it's a way of life.
Boston Globe
08-05-2025
- Boston Globe
Vineyard festivities preserve historic sites, and a Costa Rica package offers crystal clear views
Get Starting Point A guide through the most important stories of the morning, delivered Monday through Friday. Enter Email Sign Up Hotel Three Sixty has partnered with the high-performance scope brand Swarovski Optik to offer a package that brings nature into focus in Costa Rica. Courtesy of Hotel Three Sixty Advertisement THERE: COSTA RICA PACKAGE OFFERS CRYSTAL-CLEAR VIEWS What do Swarovski Optik and Costa Rica have in common? Both are committed to practicing active conservation and preserving biodiversity in the spirit of what Costa Ricans refer to as pura vida , the pure life. With that in mind, the adults-only Hotel Three Sixty has partnered with the high-performance scope brand to offer a package that (literally!) brings nature into focus. In early 2023, in an effort to practice active conservation, Swarovski Optik purchased 285 acres of rain forest on the Osa Peninsula, a region estimated to contain around 2.5 percent of the world's biodiversity. The rain forest and its hiking trails are not currently open to the public, however the hotel's Swarovski Optik View of Ojochal Package offers hotel guests access to six miles of moderate to intense level trails where they are likely to spot any number of species, including Red-capped Mannikins, Scarlet Macaws, Turquoise Cotingas, and four species of Trogon. The package includes a pair of CL Curio binoculars to keep (for optimal wildlife spotting); transportation to the rain forest; a guide to Ojochal's most spotted birds; and a four-night stay in a premium villa, one of 12 at the hotel that perches at an altitude of almost 1,000 feet in the remote southwest rain forest. Hotel amenities include outdoor pool, spa and fitness center, its own 58-acre trail-lined rain forest reserve, and open-air restaurant and bar offering freshly sourced local products along with sunset views of the coastline and Pacific. Package rate from $2,377; without the package, a la carte pricing for daily binocular rentals and transfer to the rain forest is available. 800-417-6712, Advertisement EZQuest's WorldTravel Wall Charger is designed with four different plug types that can plug into the sockets of 200-plus countries. Courtesy of EZQuest EVERYWHERE: MULTIPORT INTERNATIONAL CHARGING PLUG International travelers often face a packing conundrum. In addition to thinking about gadgets, phones, and tablets and their respective charging cables, one needs to know which plugs are used in what types of outlets in each specific country on an itinerary. Enter EZQuest's WorldTravel Wall Charger, a gadget that will help simplify planning and alleviate your packing anxiety. The 65W chargers are designed with four different plug types that can plug into the sockets of 200-plus countries, including Type C for use in most of Europe, including France, Germany, Italy, Spain, Iceland, Greece, and many other countries; Type G for UK, Ireland, HK, Malaysia, Singapore; Type I for China, Australia, New Zealand, Argentina; Type A for USA, Mexico, Canada, and Japan. (It does not work in India and South Africa.) With an ability to charge up to six devices simultaneously, this lightweight device might become your newest travel essential. $59.99. Advertisement NECEE REGIS Necee Regis can be reached at
Yahoo
10-04-2025
- Yahoo
Is Costa Rica Gay Friendly? The Weather's Nice – But What About the Political Climate?
Costa Rica, often hailed as one of the most beautiful and diverse countries in the world, is a paradise for travelers seeking lush rainforests, pristine beaches and a peaceful, laid-back lifestyle. With its incredible biodiversity, friendly locals and emphasis on sustainability, Costa Rica offers something for everyone. Whether you're an adventure seeker, a nature lover or someone simply looking for relaxation, this Central American gem definitely delivers. But for LGBTQ+ travelers, there's another important question to ask: is Costa Rica gay friendly? In today's world, knowing how a destination treats its local and visiting LGBTQ+ community is more important than ever. Not only do travelers want to feel welcome, but they also need to ensure they can enjoy their carefully planned trip without fear of discrimination or social exclusion. It's important to consider how a country's legal framework and ambiance translates into real-world experiences and perceived safety. This guide will take a deep dive into Costa Rica's LGBTQ+ friendliness, from its culture and legal protections to the most inclusive destinations around the country. Costa Rican culture is widely known for its warmth and openness. This is represented in the famous phrase 'pura vida,' which translates to 'pure life' or 'simple life.' This reflects the nation's easygoing and optimistic approach to life. The local population is pretty friendly and Costa Ricans take great pride in their hospitality, making the country one of the most popular travel destinations in the world. In major cities like San José and other popular tourist destinations, the LGBTQ+ community can generally find a welcoming environment. Costa Rica has grown more accepting in recent years, particularly among younger generations, who are increasingly progressive on issues of gender and sexuality. So overall the vibe is welcoming, but there are nuances to that. Just like in many countries, rural areas tend to be more conservative. This means that open displays of affection, such as holding hands or kissing in public, may attract some attention or cause discomfort for LGBTQ+ community members. While this doesn't necessarily mean hostility, it's always a good idea to remain aware of your surroundings, especially in less tourist-heavy regions. Costa Rica has made significant strides in ensuring legal protection for LGBTQ+ individuals; one of the most significant progressions came in May 2020. This is when the country became the first in Central America to legalize same-sex marriage – a milestone that came as a result of a ruling by the Constitutional Court in 2018 that declared the country's prior ban unconstitutional. The ruling aligned with an advisory opinion from the Inter-American Court of Human Rights, which mandated that signatory countries must recognize and guarantee the rights of same-sex couples. Beyond marriage equality, Costa Rica has also implemented anti-discrimination laws that protect LGBTQ+ individuals in areas such as employment, housing and public accommodations. This legal framework provides a strong foundation for LGBTQ+ individuals to live and work in Costa Rica without the threat of discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity. Despite these legal advances, societal attitudes can still be more conservative, particularly in more rural or traditional areas. While Costa Rica's legal protections are strong, it's still important for LGBTQ+ travelers to remain sensitive to local customs and cultural norms. Areas like San José, beach towns like Jacó and Tamarindo and laid-back destinations like Puerto Viejo and Manuel Antonio offer an open, accepting atmosphere. These places are where LGBTQ+ travelers can feel the most comfortable. Ultimately, Costa Rica promises a warm welcome for travelers of all orientations. The country's tourism industry is well-versed in catering to diverse visitors, and many of the most inclusive areas boast vibrant LGBTQ+ scenes, from nightlife to community spaces. Here is what we know about the top places in Costa Rica that are considered gay friendly: As the capital and heart of Costa Rica, San José is the most LGBTQ+-friendly destination in the country. The city is home to a variety of LGBTQ+-inclusive bars, clubs and restaurants (particularly in the El Carmen district). San José also hosts a vibrant annual Pride parade, which attracts both locals and international visitors. This urban hub offers a wide range of accommodations, and its progressive, cosmopolitan atmosphere makes it an ideal starting point for LGBTQ+ travelers. Situated on the Pacific coast, Jacó is a popular beach town that is known for its inclusive and laid-back vibe. The town has a welcoming atmosphere with several LGBTQ+-friendly bars, clubs, restaurants and accommodations lining the streets. Jacó is a great place for a fun and relaxed beach vacation. Its open-minded locals ensure that everyone can enjoy the natural beauty and lively nightlife without judgment. This town is located on the Caribbean coast. Puerto Viejo is a bohemian paradise known for its laid-back, inclusive culture. With its relaxed pace of life and vibrant local arts scene, the area appeals to a diverse group of visitors naturally. Overall, Puerto Viejo has a reputation for being open-minded and friendly, so people from all walks of life can explore the area safely, including LGBTQ+ travelers. This makes it a great place to unwind and enjoy both the natural beauty and the welcoming atmosphere. Home to one of Costa Rica's most famous national parks, Manuel Antonio is an idyllic beach town that also offers a warm welcome to LGBTQ+ visitors. The town's hotels, tour operators and other places are generally inclusive. So gay couples can feel comfortable exploring the area's stunning beaches and lush rainforests together. Manuel Antonio's relaxed vibe and diverse tourist population make it a popular spot for LGBTQ+ travelers. On the Pacific coast, Tamarindo is a trendy beach town that has become a hotspot for LGBTQ+ travelers, known for its beautiful beaches, lively nightlife and relaxed atmosphere. Tamarindo also has several LGBTQ+-friendly bars and clubs, so, if a night out sounds ideal, visitors will not miss out on the fun. Overall, the town has a welcoming vibe and is a popular destination for tourists seeking a mix of outdoor adventure, vibrant nightlife and a more cosmopolitan feel. Is Costa Rica friendly to foreigners? Yes, tourists consider Costa Rica to be a very friendly place and foreigners often feel comfortable visiting. Regardless of this overwhelmingly welcoming energy, it is important to respect locals and customs during a trip. Is Costa Rica expensive? Due to its well developed tourism industry and healthy economy, Costa Rica is relatively expensive when compared to other Central American post Is Costa Rica Gay Friendly? The Weather's Nice – But What About the Political Climate? appeared first on Travel Noire.
