COSTA RICA: The Gem of Latin America

Copyright (c) 1995 (Protected by Pan-American & International Conventions)

By Shannon Roxborough


Known as the "Switzerland of the Americas" for its peace, democracy, and
natural beatuy, Costa Rica, flanked by the Caribbean Sea on the east,
and the Pacific Ocean on the west, is seemingly blesed with numerous
magnificent mountains, pristine beaches, and a year-round pleasant
climate.

Costa Rica, nestled in the heart of Central America (bordered by
Nicaragua and Panama), is known for its beautifully preserved environment
and friendly atmosphere.

In order to preserve promises of peace, the government of Costa Rica
disbanded its armed forces in 1949, and currently has no army, navey or
airforce.  Funds previously allocated for the military are now channeled
into education and social development.  As a result, Costa Rica boasts a
high literacy rate, and health & medical standards comparable to many
First-World countries.

But Costa Rica is not all tranquility.  In San Jose, its capital with a
population of more than 250,000, you will find Four-Star hotels, bustling
businesses, and a shopper's paradise.

Though Spanish is Costa Rica's Official Language, I've put together a list
of English-speaking contacts to make your business in the republic smooth
sailing:

TOURIST OFFICES

Costa Rican Tourist Board, Plaza de la Cultura, 5th Street, Central and
2nd Avenue, San Jose, Costa Rica; Tel: (506) 223-1733, ext. 277

1101 Brickel Ave., Blvd. Tower, Suite 801, Miami, FL 33131 USA; Tel:
Tel: (800) 327-7033; (305) 358-2150



CONFIDENTIAL FINANCIAL SERVICES & RETIREMENT INFORMATION

Financial Engineering Consultants, Inc. (Source 91/12-0695)
Box 959, Centro Colon Offices - 1007, San Jose, Costa Rica
Tel: (506) 296-2597; Fax: (506) 220-3470



REAL ESTATE

Leona Mar Developments, Avenida 4, Calle 34/36, San Jose,. Costa Rica;
Tel/Fax: (506) 231-4553

Eco-Resorts, Post Office Box 661, Liberty, New York 12754 USA

American Realty, Edifico Ferencz, Third Floor, Avenida 3 and Calle 3,
P.O. Box 2310-1000, San Jose, COsta Rica; Tel: (6506) 223-0328
Fax: (506) 223-1050



ATTORNEY-AT-LAW

Dr. Enrique Von Browne, Apartado 5634, San Jose, Costa Rica
Tel: (506) 221-8550; Fax: (506) 221-5910



TRADE & INVESTMENT

Embassy of Costa Rica, 1825 Connecticut Ave., NW, Suite 211
Washington, DC 20009 USA; Tel: (202) 234-2945

U.S. Dept. of Commerce, Desk Officer for Costa Rica, Room H3314
Washington, DC 20230 USA; Tel: (202) 377-2527

Costa Rica Investment & Trade Promotion Office, Gaslight Tower, Suite 1617
Atlanta, GA 30303 USA; Tel: (404) 223-5708



ENGLISH-LANGUAGE NEWSPAPER

The Tico Times, Avenida 8, Calle 15, Apartado 4632, San Jose, Costa Rica
Tel: (506) 222-8952; Fax: (506) 233-6378 (USA: Box 025216, Dept. 717,
Miami, FL 33102)