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Real Estate & Investment News in Costa Rica! November and December 2007 Page 1

Saudi Arabian Royalty Moves to Costa Rica
The Prince is the Major Stockholder of
Four Season's Hotel & Resort in Papagayo
(Guanacaste Province in Costa Rica)

The Saudi Arabian Prince, and Oil Baron, Prince Alwaleed Bin Talal
Alsaud, announced at an International Conference, that he plans to
expand his Hotel Empire, in the Papagayo Peninsula in the City of
Liberia.

He is the major stockholder of the Four Seasons Hotel & Resort in
Papagayo, (Guanacaste Province in Costa Rica).  He is also Chairman
of "Kingdom Holding Company" (KHC). 

The International Press Conference, was held at the Presidential
Palace and he was welcomed by President Oscar Arias Sanchez,
along with Presidency Minister, Rodrigo Arias.

Four Seasons Resort & Arnold Palmer Signature Golf Course
Opened January 15th, of 2004 - Located on the Papagayo Peninsula
(Guanacaste Province of Costa Rica)

At a cost of over $100 Million. The sheer investment of the Four
Seasons Resort and introduction of their clientele, to Guanacaste, have
had very positive effects on local property value, in Guanacaste. This
was the first phase of a three phase project, which will include:
additional golf courses, two marinas, with a total investment, that will
surpass $400 million, and be completed over the next 7 years.

Prince Alwaleed's announcement came, after the advent
announcement of Steve Case's (Co-Founder of AOL), who plans to
build an $800 Million Resort Complex in Coco Beach, in Guanacaste.

Guanacaste Province, in Costa Rica, is attracting International Hotels
from all over the world.  As many as 30 other International Hotels,
including Ritz-Carlton, are canvassing the area.  Last month, "Mandarin
Oriental" announced that they were building a 536-acre Resort and
Residences Complex in the Guanacaste Province.

Currently, Costa Rica's Tourism Industry stands at $1.2 Billion and is
also the most visited nation in Central America.  Investment opportunities
are strong in Electronics Companies, Telecommunications and Internet
Service Companies, Pharmaceuticals, Financial Outsourcing, Movie &
Film Companies, Film Industry Graphic Art Specialists in Animation and Cinematography , Computer and Cell Phone Technology, Software
Development, Rocket and Space Technology, Real Estate and Eco
Tourism.  These are quickly becoming the prime industries of Costa Rica.


Saudi Prince Alwaleed bin Talal Plans to Purchase
the World's Largest Private Jet

The Prince has chosen to be one of the first to purchase the new $300
Million Air Bus A380 Super Jumbo. It can seat about 800 people, but
the Prince has plans for many luxury additions on his new plane.

The Aviation Press, is speculating that among the "extras" the Prince
might want are private bedrooms, with a master suite on the upper
deck, with an office, private dining room, gym and spa.

There would be a reception room, for those awaiting ad audience with the
Prince, and the lower back deck, could contain a lounge, conference room,
and larger public dining room.  Part of the cargo hold, could be transformed
into a movie theatre.

The Air Bus does have some nice Eco-Advantages, over standard aircraft.
because of it's gigantic passenger capacity. For the Prince, and his billion
dollar fortune, we have only two words, "Peak Oil".
 

Playas del Coco (Coco Beach in Guanacaste Province)
in Costa Rica is Being Hit by Massive Hotel & Condominium
Development by the "Rich and Famous"

Playas del Coco (The Beach of Coconuts), has been in a flurry, with big
Development Projects and Big "Rich and Famous" Investors, flocking into
the small beachside village.  They have been canvassing the coastline
properties in Coco Beach, to develop large Eco-Hotels. Condominiums
and Luxury Residences.

Stephan Case, the co-founder of AOL, and his company "Revolution
Places" bought $800 Million worth of land, (650 acres) in Coco Beach,
in the Guanacaste Province.  "Revolution Places" Case's Lifestyle company
is based in Washington D.C. and Hawaii, (where Stephan Case grew up). 
The project has some flaws.

His idea is to build the "Cacique Resort" and Golf Club, which would include
a professional 18 hole (Tom Doak) Golf Course.  The coastal land is
flourished with calm, pristine beaches lined with Palm Trees and Coconut
Trees.

Stephan Case is partnering with a few 5 star Luxury Eco-Hotel Resort
Companies, owned or partnered with "Revolution Places", on this land: 
"One and Only Resorts" will operate one "Hotel Miraval Life in Balance Spa",
(in which Stephan Case is a majority investor), the number of planned rooms
is 270.

"Exclusive Resorts" a timeshare business, (owned by Revolution Places), will
build 30, of the planned 300 private homes.  He also plans Agassi-Graf
Tennis and Fitness Centers.

A Luxury Marina is proposed, within the next two years, for Coco Beach.

Tom Doak's Renaissance Golf Design for "Cacique", will head up
the architecture and design of this 18 hole golf course.  He was the golf
architect for the acclaimed, "Pacific Dunes Golf Course" in Oregon in the
United States and "Cape Kidnappers Golf Club" in New Zealand, for the
"Tiger Fund" founder, Julian Robertson.

Both "Seaside Golf Courses" are ranked in the Top 100 in the world. 
Along with Jack Nicklaus, Tom Doak co-designed "Sobonack" (neighbor
to National Golf Links and Shinnecock Hills, in South Hampton, New York)
for former car-leasing giant, Michael Pascucci.

Stephan Case, chairman of Revolution LLC and Costa Rican President,
Oscar Arias Sanchez, stated that Tom Doak is designing the new golf
course for the new 650-acre destination community called, "Cacique". 
The Costa Rica Resort Project is scheduled for a 2010 completion.

The site for the golf course is across the road, from the seaside part of
the resort.  It sits entirely within a steep Jungle Bowl of ridges and deep
valleys. The resort is perched well above it, on one side, so that nothing
intrudes on the "golf experience".

The Golf Course will be walk-able, even though some of the ridges are
steep, we believe that many golfers will take golf caddies and golf carts.

"Cacique" will on environmentally friendly elements, that will reduce energy
and water demand, while taking advantage of spatial wind and solar patterns,
to maximize cross ventilation, shade and sunlight.  The development will
establish a comprehensive recycling and solid-waste management program, to
neutralize it's impact on the surrounding environment.  "Cacique" will create
on-site treatment facilities to re-use wastewater and purchase it's electrical
power from renewable sources.

*The project's first environmental impact project, was flat out rejected by
Costa Rica's National Secretariat of the Environment Ministry (SETENA).
Without (SETENA's) approval, the project cannot move forward.

"Revolution Places" submitted a new impact study for "Cacique" in July and is
still awaiting approval.  Whatever the project's fate, Coco Beach is fated for
explosive Luxury Resort Development.


A Division of Crystal Clear Properties,
(Based in Phoenix,Arizona)
Announced a Formal Launch of Their Pre-Construction
Sales of Their 258 unit Resort Condominium Project,
called "Coco Vista" in Coco Beach (Playa del Cocos) in
Costa Rica's Guanacaste Province

They are located right next to Stephan Case's, "Cacique Resort and
Golf Club" in Coco Beach.

"Costa Rica Vacations" (With their massive
1000 meter square home) In the Hollywood Hills
above (Playas del Coco) in Guanacaste Province,
called "The Costa Rica Villa"

The "Costa Rica Villa" was the idea of co-owners Tony Silva and Casey
Halloran, who wanted to take everything they had seen, that has worked
in Hotels and Villas, over the companies 8 years and put it into a fabulous
luxury 7 bedroom villa.  Casey Halloran stated, "that there really isn't
enough luxury in Costa Rica and this villa will deliver everything that
Costa Rica is lacking, plus give the guests the ultimate vacation experience.
The villa is due to be completed in March 2008.  Please visit the website:
http://www.mycostaricavilla.com

This investment by some of Costa Rica's biggest players, has caused a
skyrocket on land prices in Coco Beach, but with the new building laws in
place and the water problems in check, this could turn out to be a beautiful
place in Costa Rica.
 

"Recreo Costa Rica" is set to Open in January 2008
Joining the Four Season's Resort in Guanacaste Province
in Costa Rica

Guanacaste Province is experiencing a surge in a new breed, of
culturally sensitive and eco-minded travel destinations, that combine
the service and amenities of the finest luxury hotels with the intimacy
of private villas.  "Recreo Costa Rica" will be open to the public in
January 2008, situated on over 70 coastal acres in the tropical dry
forest of Guanacaste.

( Just 60 miles from Liberia International Airport)
(Their website: http://www.recreocostarica.com ),
joining neighbors, "The Four Season's Resort" (Major Stockholder
Saudi Arabian Prince Alwaleed) the soon to open, "Cacique Resort"
(owned by Stephen Case) and the "Mandarin Oriental".

Recreo LLC Partners, Paul Pawlowski and Michael Porter, plan to be a
leading provider of ecologically sensitive luxury travel destinations
around the world.  Private luxury villas, beautifully furnished 3 to 6
bedroom estate homes (with individualized activities and experiences
to suit each guest's lifestyle.

It's 25 luxury villas, each with it's own swimming pool and near
pristine beaches, are arranged ideally for traveling with groups, yet
are secluded enough to promise each guest, a quiet retreat. Privacy is
our guest's greatest indulgence.

The architecture and design for Recreo is "Surface the Agency"
a new creative architectural services division, born out of Surface
Magazine's prominent position, within the global design world.
(website: http://www.surfacemag.com )

From the moment our guests arrive at the airport, they will
be picked up by a chauffer in one of Recreo's SUV's, and transported
to the grounds. Once there, a personal chef in on hand, to prepare any
dish or drink of their request, any time of the day.  Exotic arrangements
of fresh cut flowers fill the villa's air and ocean breezes await on
the terrace, by the pool or on the beach.

The villas were created for comfort and feature deluxe spa
bathrooms which boast overhead rain showers and soaking tubs and
over sized organic bath towels, quality cotton sheets adorn every bed.
Air conditioners and ceiling fans are installed in every room for comfort
and climate control. In-room bath and beauty products from: "Raw
Botanicals" (http://www.rawbotanicals.com ), a Costa Rican based,
holistic skin care company, dedicated to the principals of homeopathy.
Raw Botanicals uses only the finest certified organic ingredients, and
all are handcrafted in Costa Rica.

Every villa comes equipped with Wifi, flat screen television, a DVD
player and stereo (ipod compatible), and also comes with it's own golf
cart, for guests to use around the premises.

Recreo has an on-site spa with full services offered for pampering
or rejuvenation, 2 competition quality tennis courts, a weight room, atv's,
mountain bikes, and a personal boat with captain for circumnavigating
the coast, helicopters and pilots to lead them on tours around the country.

Concierge services. Unrestricted use of all activities and services
offered.  A level of service and amenities, like those of the finest hotels
and resorts in the world. "Recreo" strives to be ecologically and socially
mindful of each country and area, it chooses to develop. They plan to
adapt the model that they have created in Costa Rica, around Latin
America and eventually to Europe.

Geotourism and Socially Responsible Development - Recreo strives
to follow the principles of Geotourism, which places equal emphasis on
energy conservation, ecology and community.

One of the major benchmarks for Geotourism is a resort's ecological
impact or "footprint"; Recreo's multiple individual structures, leave more
environmentally friendly footprints, than do resorts comprised of one
large mega structure, which can have depleting effects on environment.

In working with the community, Recreo hires only local Costa
Ricans, for whom it offers housing, insurance, and education in English
and other applicable courses. Other community outreach initiatives in
planning, include a running water campaign and boys and girls clubs. 
In addition, a portion of all profits will be donated to a local charity.

By spending time at Recreo, guests not only give back to the
Costa Rican community, they treat their souls to an inspiring and
rejuvenating gift that will last a lifetime.  The partners plan to expand
their Geotourism model, to other parts of Latin America, including
Dominican Republic and Columbia, following the model here, in
Costa Rica.


A New Board Walk is Planned for Coco Beach
(Playas del Coco) in the Guanacaste Province of Costa Rica

The Coco Beach Coastline will look dramatically different by the end of the
year, after the demolition of 14 buildings and properties, that were illegally
constructed within the public Land-Maritime zone, which reaches 50 meters
inland from the high tide mark.

A new construction of a Board Walk with tropical landscaping, water
fountains, bathrooms and showers, is in the planning.  The decision was made
by the Municipality of Carillo, in Guanacaste Province.  This was the first time
the Municipality has cleared the Beach Front Zone, in compliance with the
Maritime Zone Law.  Only one of the buildings was owned by a non-resident
and several were abandoned businesses or houses, that were frequented by
drug users.

The beach front is now building a "Malecon-style Board Walk", that will run
from estuary to estuary, with costs estimated at $385,000.  It  will be given
the name, "The Amor de Temporada Board Walk" a phrase borrowed from a
song, by a Guanacasteco Singer, called "Seasonal Love" which praises the
beauty of Playas del Coco.

The Costa Rican Presidential Decree on Building
in Coastal Areas in Costa Rica

The Presidential Decree is called the Maritime Law.  The new law is putting
into place, new building restriction zones for beach properties.  The final
heights and distances are still being decided, but the new Maritime Law will
state, no there will be no building, within 50 meters of high tide.

Then from 50 meters to 300 meters which is the highest, a building can be
built, will be 14 meters high, (which is about 4 floors) at 3.5 meters each.
Then from 300 meters back, you can only build to a maximum size of 30
meters.  This will help to protect Costa Rica's coastline and create a "green
building infrastructure". 

With over 400 % increase in building and construction in Guanacaste, over
the past year, the Costa Rican government is aware that it has to protect
the coastal environment for it's thousands of animal and bird species, and
they must also protect the height, to which property developers can build.

One of the main reasons for this thinking, comes from the over-development
of Puntarenas, Jaco Beach and Tamarindo.  Here we see gigantic towers,
over 30 stories high, being built.  For those, who bought property in the hills
or behind these towers of cement, it is a nightmare, the "once beautiful view
you had of the ocean" is now lost to sky scrapers.  And the damage it is doing
to the wildlife and bird populations, as well as the unique tropical forests, is overwhelming to consider.

With this year's rainy season, being the longest and deadliest, since 30 years
in Costa Rica, the plausible effect of waste pollution in these coastal areas
is devastating and requires new insight.  It can't just be, "Build Now and Ask
Questions Later", then it is too late.

Just look at the experiences of Hawaii and Bali and over development, there
has to be some responsibility taken, by the land developers to build "green"
and not so "greedy".

Or else the very things, that attracted people to Costa Rica, will be lost
forever.  (The Rainforests, the tropical flowers and plants, the wildlife, the
birds, the reptiles, the amphibians, the sea life, the whales' mating grounds
(Unique in all the world) and the small Charming Tico Beach Villages... will
become beach malls).


Costa Rican Government to Confiscate Private Land

Costa Rica's Mountain Resorts, have been bombarded with constant "snow"
(as opposed to the usual 6 months of snow).  This has hit the government's
budget hard.  In order to help finance, U. S. citizens with private land in
Costa Rica, have been informed, that the Costa Rican government, is taking
the land away from them, beginning September 1, 2007.

In replacement for the land, the U. S. citizens will be provided with
vouchers, allowing them to stay at local resorts, for half price. 

The Costa Rican "snow-topped" mountain range is visible from much of
Central America and are second in height, only to the Himalayan Mountain
Range.  At the foot of the mountains, the average temperature, is a hot 85
degrees F (30 Celsius), however, going up towards the mountains peak, it
can reach a "freezing" 27 degrees below zero F (30 Celsius).

Costa Rica is famous for it's friendly hospitality and warm atmosphere and
want tourists to continue enjoying themselves.  The Costa Rican government,
claims that with this recent activity, it will not become communist.

One must look at the real possibility, that the government might be protecting
it's national resources and water supply for the nation.  If people are
allowed to buy these resources up for themselves, it could be devastating
for Costa Rica and it's people.


IRS Internet Scam

The Internal Revenue Service (IRS), in the United States, is warning internet
users in the United States, against a fraudulent email, that is believed to have
originated in Costa Rica.  Although internet users in Costa Rica, have also been
receiving these threatening emails, as well.

The fraudulent email, is set up so it appears that the email has come from the
(IRS), themselves.  It goes on, to ask users for their account details, since they
are supposedly entitled to a tax refund.  The fraudulent email, has even asked
for social security numbers and credit card information, it also contains a virus
that harms your computer system.

Email Frauds are on the increase, especially near the holidays, both the (IRS)
and Costa Rican authorities are cracking down on many of them, however 150
cases, are still under investigation. 

The (IRS) would like to remind U.S. taxpayers, that they will never ask for
your social security numbers, and for users themselves, not to hand out their personal account details to suspicious sources.

If you are unsure, whether an email from the IRS is legitimate, then please
get in contact with the IRS at this phone number: 1- 800 -829-1040.

The Costa Rica Government and Costa Rica's National Water
and Sewer Institution Have Announced That They Will be
Improving the Countries Sewer Systems and Constructing New
Aqueducts to Increase the Flow of Fresh Clean Water for
Costa Rica

The project will cost an estimated $113 Million and will commence early
in the new year.  The announcement was made by President Oscar Arias
Sanchez and the president of the National Water & Sewer Institute,
Ricardo Sancho. The Project is being funded, by money from the
institution and a bank loan.

With Costa Rica's population growing in leaps and bounds, this becomes
necessary to ensure the quality of Costa Rica's water supply and
environment.

Landslide Damages the Recovery Plant at Glencairn
Gold Mine in Costa Rica

The Glencairn Gold Corporation and Gold Mine, "Also called the Bella
Vista Mine" (a Canadian Company) in Costa Rica, were forced to close
the Gold Mine, because of environmental fears, after a landslide
damaged their recovery plant, caused by deadly rain downpours and
flooding in the region.

Canadian Owned "Open Pit" Gold Mine, which produces about 50,000
ounces of gold a year, closed and shut down, after ground movements,
raised fears of leaks from their Cyanide Recovery Plant.

No employees were injured in the landslide, and no cyanide was released
into the environment, although the landslide caused significant damage to
the Recovery Plant, they hope to salvage major equipment.  The landslide
impact would probably not affect the amount of their previously
announced, impairment charge of $40 million to $50 million on it's Bella
Vista assets.


Costa Rica and the Cafta Agreement with the United States
What effect will the Cafta Agreement have on Costa Rica's Economy?

It has not brought lower costs for food and gas.  And it should be watched
for the damage it might do, to Costa Rica's small farms and businesses.

This agreement will affect the poor and lower middle class, in the case of
health, the agreement on intellectual property, will hurt users of the Costa
Rican social security system, which serves 90% of the population.  Each
year, medicines will become more expensive, because the entry of generic
medicines, into the Costa Rican market, will be delayed for years.

The same thing will happen, with telecommunications services, which will
tend to become more expensive, like in the rest of Latin America.  Almost
70% of Super Markets in Costa Rica, have been acquired by Walmart.

Although those defending the Cafta Agreement, predict the increase in
investment will bring the country big benefits, experience with these
agreements, is that these benefits are concentrated in the highest sectors,
which increasingly offer precarious jobs with temporary contracts and no
social benefits.

This agreement exposes Costa Rica, to possible multi-million dollar lawsuits,
that would have to be paid with everyone's income, further weakening not
only the countries' ability to undertake social and infrastructure investments,
but also to fulfill their role in regulating the laws.

In the experience of Mexico, with the Cafta Agreement, small national
producers, will be in jeopardy, since they will not be protected and will
not receive any government support, such as technical advice and loans
and subsidies, but will also have to confront the multi-million dollar
subsidies of U.S. producers.

And protections should be put into place, to protect these farmers and small
businesses.  Along with protections for Costa Rica's natural resources.  Once
a country loses it's agriculture, and has to depend on other countries for
their food supply, this sets up a deadly chain of "dependence" instead of
"independence", and will drive high food costs into a frenzy, upsetting
the inflation measures of Costa Rica.  (There is plenty of room for
Agriculture and Industry, to co-exist together, to create a strong economy).

Costa Rica's Farmers are already adjusting to the demand of the global
market.  Agricultural production has shifted from not only rice and beans
and yellow corn, for the country's consumption, but to the highly profitable
production for export of pineapples, melons, strawberries, winter vegetables,
dragon fruit, coffee, tobacco, and more.  This new agriculture has been so
successful, that countries as large as Brazil and as competitive as Ecuador
have tried to emulate it. 

As global climatic changes, affect different countries and their crop
productions, the demand for organic, exotic tropical fruits and vegetables,
will become even higher.

On the up side, now that Cafta has been approved, this guarantees
that Costa Rica and it's economy can diversify and expand, and it promotes
a more open export-based economy. 

It expands Costa Rica's talents and exports, to include not only our
treasured agricultural products, but also expand into new and exciting
exports and services, like:  Electronics, Telecommunications and Internet
Services, Satellite Networks, Fiber Optics, Laser technology,
Pharmaceuticals, Financial Outsourcing, Movie & Film Companies, Film
Industry Graphic Art Specialists in Animation and cinematography ,
Computer and Cell Phone Technology, Software Development, Rocket
Science and Space Technology, Real Estate and Eco Tourism.

This in turn, expands our other markets that are in place, by supply and
demand.

Costa Rica is a magnet for direct foreign investment, but the Costa Rican
government, must also learn when to say "no", if it will destroy the natural
resources or assets of Costa Rica, or the welfare of it's people.

Trade Agreements with the United States, China and the European Union,
will ensure our place, in the global economy.  Restaurants, Hotels, Car
Repair, Spanish Language Schools, Wood Works, Construction, Ceramic
Tiles, Plant & Flower Nurseries, Printing Shops and Lithographers, Shipping
companies, Furniture Manufacturers, Modeling Agencies, Advertising
Agencies, Musicians and Artists should all embrace the change, and get
ready for tremendous growth and rewards.  But also become more efficient,
create better services and products to offer.  Learn new technology and
compete for the business.

There will be greater confidence in Costa Rica's ability to observe
International Laws for resolution of investments.  Training and expertise
and education comes hand in hand, with becoming global.
 

The Costa Rica Government has Approved a
New International Airport That Will Provide
Needed Access to the Pacific Coast for Foreign
Travelers

The Third International Airport in Costa Rica, will take out some of
the stress of traveling into and out of Costa Rica. Once the airport is
completed, it is predicted to attract more foreign investment and
tourism.

The airport will provide much needed access to Pacific Coast
destinations, such as Palmer Sur, Quepos, Dominical and the Peninsula
de Osa.

The easy access to the Pacific Coast will result in more time vacationing,
and less time traveling to and from vacation spots. With all the nation's
International traffic, from corporations doing business in Costa Rica,
foreigners vacationing in Costa Rica and investors looking to own a piece
of the "Rich Coast", trying to funnel flights through one of Costa Rica's
two International airports, is causing to great a strain on air traffic
controllers.  Travelers feel the strain too.

Although 157 airports in Costa Rica, sounds like a lot, when looking at
the specific use and capabilities of the airports, it is understood why
the Costa Rican Government needs to build a new International Airport
in Costa Rica.  There are only 2 International Airports, that have the
capacity to handle International flights, a majority of the airports are
for private use, only 32 of the airports in Costa Rica, have paved
runways and two dozen or less are serviced by regional airlines.  The
opening date, is scheduled for 2010.


Power Failure: How the World Bank is
Denying Energy to the Poorest
Source: Christian Aid - UK
Christian Aid Website: http://www.christianaid.org.uk

As world financial leaders gather in Washington for the annual joint
strategy meetings of the World Bank and International Monetary Fund,
Christian Aid is calling for an urgent rethink of the World Bank's
approach to tackling energy poverty.

Not only is the privatization model it endorses, failing to deliver more
energy to the world's poorest people, but it is also locking them into a
dependence on polluting and increasingly expensive fossil fuels.

On the agenda in Washington, is the World Bank's Investment
Framework for Clean Energy and Development (CEIF). The CEIF has
initiated various schemes, designed to enhance investment in energy
access, renewable energy and adaptation to climate change. Yet when
Christian Aid conducted an in-depth study of electricity reforms in
Nicaragua and planned changes in Nigeria, we found that the reality
on the ground, bore little relationship to the clean development rhetoric.

"Unfortunately, there is a large gap between the World Bank's stated
goals of promoting clean and affordable energy and the real life
outcomes, of the energy policy it has promoted, in several developing
countries," said Andrew Pendleton, Christian Aid's energy expert.

In Nicaragua, electricity privatization was rushed through in 2000,
with a promise to increase coverage and lower tariffs. Seven years
later, the small gains in coverage, have been overshadowed by bills
escalating by up to 400 per cent and daily blackouts, lasting up to
seven hours in many neighborhoods. It is also heavily reliant on
imported oil-based electricity generation.

"Given the catastrophic outcomes, of some of its policies, in the energy
sectors in poorer countries, the World Bank should urgently reform its
approach, so that it's based on what works for poor people, not on the
assumption that the market has all the answers," said Claire McGuigan,
a Christian Aid economics expert.

Julio Alberto lives in Ciudad Sandino, a barrio in Nicaragua's capital,
Managua. He set up a corner shop just before the blackouts began. Since
then his refrigeration unit was destroyed by a surge, ruining his meat
stock and requiring a costly repair.

"They told us we would have a cheaper service, which was more reliable
and with more people connected to the grid. None of this has happened,"
said Mr. Alberto, "We are paying higher bills for much less electricity
and hardly any new connections have been made."

It doesn't have to be this way.  Neighboring Costa Rica, has become a
world leader in renewable energy. In 2004, the country was generating
98.6 per cent of its electricity, from renewable sources. At the same
time, Costa Ricans enjoy the lowest prices and highest electricity coverage
in Central America.

Around the world, some 1.6 billion people have no access to electricity. A
further 800 million people, lack any sort of modern fuel for cooking and
heating. They might have some electricity, but only enough to power light
bulbs and small domestic appliances.

It is part of the World Bank's remit, to address this problem. However,
Nigeria is about to embark on an electricity privatization process, which
bears a worrying resemblance, to the Nicaraguan model. The key problem
is that building infrastructure, to connect poor people, living in remote
areas to a national grid, is rarely cost-effective for private investors,
who require a return on their capital. The Nicaragua example,
demonstrates that privatization alone, is insufficient and sometimes
inappropriate to ensure provision of affordable energy to the poorest
citizens.

For further press information, please contact Sarah Wilson at:
0207 523 2277 or 07930 341 525.

Notes to editors

Christian Aid is a member of the Stop Climate Chaos coalition, a growing
movement, bringing together environment and development organizations,
unions, faith, community and women's groups, working together on climate
change.

Christian Aid is an international development agency, working in around
50 countries with people of all religions and none.


Hacienda Mata Palo Development on the
Pacific - Three of the Areas most Beautiful
Beaches Are Within Minutes Distance: Playa
Mata Palo,Playa Linda and Playa Ventanas

Only minutes away and easily accessible are a few of Costa Rica's most
precious gems.  For example the seaside village of Dominical, the warm
and welcoming town of San Isidro, Manuel Antonio Beach (Home to Costa
Rica's most visited park) and Quepos Beach (Where World Class Sport
Fishing takes place year round).

Completely surrounded by lush rainforests, cascading waterfalls and
breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean is Costa Rica's extraordinary
Gated Community of Hacienda Mata Palo.  With 665 private acres, Hacienda
Mata Palo offers a world of natural beauty and adventure.

(Website: http://www.haciendamatapalo.com ) Located just 800 meters,
(2,624.67 feet) from the beach, and reaches back 3 kilometers into the
primary forested mountains to an altitude of nearly 2,000 feet above sea
level.

With it's 125 acre dedicated nature preserve, nature is and always will be
an integral part of this community. Set among countless species of birds,
butterflies and wildlife.  Hacienda Mata Palo offers 1.25 acre home sites,
single family homes, town homes, villas and condominiums, all equipped with
state-of-the-art connectivity, including satellite, internet, telephone and 24
hour security.

Enjoy our private Beach Club, where owners and guests can spend the day,
and then rinse off in a cool shower before heading back home. If adventure
is what you seek, you will find it here in "nature's playground".


Pacifica Estates just 5 Miles South of Jaco Beach
Overlooking Playa Hermosa

We are 10 minutes from Los Suenos Marina and Resort Complex, the finest
marina south of Acapulco, and 40 minutes north of world famous Manuel
Antonio Beach Park.  All of our building lots feature breathtaking panorama
vistas of Playa Hermosa, Jaco Beach and incredible countryside, at 900 to
1400 feet above sea level.

Pacifica Estates not only offers the largest lots in the area for residential
use, but also have segregated areas on the public road, that are zoned for
commercial use, such as condominiums, a gated community or luxury hotel.
(website: http://www.pacificaestatescr.com )


International Film Festival in Montezuma Beach
November 1st-5th (2007)

The first annual 5-day Film Festival in Montezuma Beach, held at the
Sano Banano Hotel, with an opening dinner. The festival, organized by
the Festival League, will feature 65 movies and shorts.

Movie Makers and Watchers from around the world will converge
on this little seaside town to celebrate film and the arts, while embracing
the beautiful natural surroundings. The event promises to be quite different,
from your average black-tie film festival. After the opening dinner, the movie,
"A Balancing Act" will kick off the film series at the hotel. The movies will
be slightly staggered and viewed on 2 other screens at "Los Mangos" and
"Luz de Mono".

The town will also host a series of discourses and celebrations, to revolve
around the 5-day festival, while bringing a little of it's own Bohemian Flare.
"After Parties" will be held each day at "Chicos" or "Luz de Mono" starting
at 11:00 or 12:00 pm.

Fire Twirlers, Dancers, DJ's and more will take part in some of the evening
festivities, while horseback riding on the beach, yoga sessions, surfing and
boat tours of Isla Tortuga, will keep visitors busy during the day.


Costa Rica Moves Forward
with 300,000 New GSM Mobil Phone Lines

The state run telecommunications monopoly, (ICE), have had their plans
accepted to introduce 300,000 new GSM mobile lines, in January 2008.
(ICE) had already agreed on a contract with "Ericsson" the Swedish Mobile
phone manufacturer to introduce new lines in June 2007, earlier this year
but needed the approval of the Costa Rica comptroller.

With these new lines, (ICE) plans to introduce "pre-paid" phone technology,
something new in Costa Rica, coinciding with the Cafta Agreement.
Mobile phone users will rise to about 43%. Currently the availability of
mobile lines in Costa Rica is very limited, with local sources stating, that
there are up to 50,000 people in Costa Rica, waiting in line, to acquire
an (ICE) mobile phone line.


(ICE) Takes Action After Cafta Approval
to Modernize it's Telecommunications Services

The state run telecommunications monopoly, (ICE), (Costa Rica Institute
of Electricity) is planning to modernize it's telecommunications services
beginning in January 2008, with the addition of 1.5 million GSM cellular
lines, they hope to have 3.5 million cell phone lines or 70, for every 100
residents of Costa Rica.

The new cellular lines, which should be available by February 2008, are
third generation (3G) lines that have a better band width and will allow
new technology functions, such as video conferences, internet access and
quicker connections.

Current (ICE) phone lines only allow users to send simple text messages or
pictures, even if their mobile phone has the technology to do more. (ICE)
promises that other phone lines, like SmartPhones and the iPhone.

(ICE) also promises to improve access to it's yellow pages, by setting up
a 3 digit number for people to call or text to request a phone number.
Phone numbers will also be gaining an eighth digit, to allow for the influx
of phone lines, since Costa Rica has only one area code.

The Central American Bank of Economic Integration (BCIE), released a
letter of intent, saying it will help (ICE) by buying the new lines, that have
an initial cost of $200 million.  (ICE) will then lease the network, with the
option to buy.  A final approval is forthcoming by the comptroller's office
and the bank.

(ICE's) sudden plans for modernization are a direct response, to the
approval of the Cafta Agreement. The lines are being offered in an effort
to saturate the cellular market in Costa Rica, to dissuade competition from
the United States from entering the market, when the supply may already
be higher than the demand.


United Nations Mandated "University for Peace"
Offers CSR (Corporate Social Responsibility) Workshops
in Costa Rica (December 10th -12th) and in London
(November 27th-28th)

UPEACE Centre for Executive and Professional Education has chosen
London as the site to offer a 2-day intensive workshop on Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), in partnership with UK CSR specialists, Ideal Media.

This will be the first, in a series of internationals workshops and seminars
and will be followed closely, by a 3-day workshop in San Jose, Costa Rica.
The two workshops have been designed, as an executive education, offering
to help fill the gap in hands-on professional CSR education. Interested
participants may register for either one of the workshops.

The workshops are designed to give those working or looking to work in CSR practical knowledge on how to plan and implement a CSR strategy.

The course has limited enrolment is designed to maximize participant
interaction, but will also bring industry insights with expert speakers from
the field. This initiative is also seen as a contribution to the cross-section
approach recommended by UN Decade of Education for Sustainable
Development (2005-2014). The main topics that will be addressed include:

Leading Frameworks for CSR: Looking at the pros and cons of selected international CSR frameworks.

Leadership in CSR: Bringing values to the workplace and developing leadership skills.

CSR communications: Engaging and inspiring stakeholders and developing your brand.

Engaging NGOs: How to structure for win-win alliances.

Case Studies of CSR in practice: Learning from best practices.

CSR strategy: Developing a CSR strategy for your organization.

For more information and to register for the limited enrollment workshops,
please visit the website: www.centre.upeace.org

The University for Peace (UPEACE) was created by the General Assembly
of the United Nations, to provide an educational framework, for the largest challenge faced by humanity: to ensure a secure and equitable world, for
ourselves and for future generations. It currently offers nine master's
programs in multi-disciplinary courses, taught by international faculty,
using engaging and participatory teaching models.

The Center's Mission is to work with leaders from around the world, to
offer the knowledge, perspectives and skills to prepare them to be more
effective in their professional environments, with a new spirit of
understanding, cooperation and sensitivity to our global inter-connectedness.

Soulea Development - Luxury Costa Rica Real Estate
Endless Pacific Ocean Views and a Lifestyle Change
(Uvita Pacific Beach Area)

The Soulea Luxury Pool Villa Development consists of 18 modern living
turn key solution homes. Situated in the stunning Uvita Pacific Beach
area. All homes have panoramic ocean views and come fully furnished
with exclusive, imported Balinese furniture of the highest quality, and
fully fitted kitchens. Lots are also available. For sale direct by
owners/developers (website: http://www.soulea.com )
 

Continue to Page 2
Costa Rica Real Estate News and Investments

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