Welcome to our Monthly Highlights & Spotlights – July 2025
Following events within local communities, sharing home decor trends, and Costa Rica real estate!
Upcoming Concerts & Events in San Jose
Explore Live Concerts & Comedy Events HERE
Explore JAZZ CAFE of Escazu Events HERE
Explore Avenida Escazu Events HERE
Greetings from the Central Valley!
July brings an exciting array of cultural celebrations and events, making it the perfect time to explore Costa Rica’s vibrant traditions. This month, we highlight local festivities, share practical tips for online shopping, and present a charming spot to dine in Escazú.
Restaurant Spotlight: Casabe Restaurant – Escazú
Nestled in the heart of Escazú, Casabe Restaurant offers a modern take on classic Costa Rican flavors. With a bright, inviting space, it’s a favorite for breakfast and lunch among families and professionals.
Highlights:
- Breakfast: Fluffy pancakes with seasonal fruits, hearty breakfast bowls made with farm-fresh ingredients.
- Lunch: Gourmet sandwiches on artisan bread, quinoa-avocado bowls, salads, and flavorful wraps.
- Quality Ingredients: Locally sourced items, house-made casabe bread, and fresh juices.
- Atmosphere: Light-filled, open atmosphere—ideal for relaxed dining.
Insider Tip: Be sure to try the popular beet-ginger smoothie—local patrons call it a “perfect day starter.”
July Events & Cultural Celebrations
Limón Roots Festival (July 1–31)
A month-long celebration of Afro-Caribbean culture featuring live music, dance, traditional food, and artisan markets in Limón. A vibrant opportunity to experience Costa Rica’s multicultural heritage. Follow the Municipalidad de San Jose Facebook page for additional festivals and celebrations within the Greater Metropolitan Area (GAM).
Fiestas de la Virgen del Mar (July 16)
In Puntarenas, locals honor the Virgin of the Sea with boat parades, music, and fresh seafood. Arrive early to enjoy the full maritime procession and local markets.
Guanacaste Day (July 25)
This national holiday commemorates the annexation of Guanacaste to Costa Rica in 1824. Expect folklore parades, traditional music, food stalls, and civic ceremonies around the country, especially in Guanacaste province and Central Valley festivals. You’ll often hear “bombas”, a traditional form of improvised verse commonly exchanged during folkloric dances, such as the punto guanacasteco. Bombas are typically four-line quatrains, sometimes ending with the playful shout “¡uyuyuy bajura!” These clever verses, rooted in Spanish and Moorish traditions and adapted over centuries in Costa Rica, praise horses, cattle, coastal life, and even gently tease locals or public figures.
U.S. Independence Day Abroad (July 4)
Expats from the United States can celebrate with local events across the Central Valley. Many restaurants and expat groups host BBQs, family festivities, and fireworks. Check local social media for events.
Shopping Online from Costa Rica – Tips and Insights
Navigating online shopping in Costa Rica can be seamless and stress-free once you’re familiar with some key points. Here’s what you need to know for smooth transactions and reliable deliveries:
Facebook Marketplace & Local Small Businesses:
Facebook Marketplace is a popular and reliable resource among residents and expats alike, offering unique furniture, decor items, electronics, and appliances often unavailable in local stores. Many independent vendors and small businesses regularly advertise here, providing delivery services via Uber within the Greater Metropolitan Area (GAM).
Buying from Amazon & Managing Taxes:
Purchasing directly from Amazon can be challenging due to customs regulations and taxes. Items not clearly labeled or missing required customs documentation may be returned, causing inconvenience and additional costs. To ensure hassle-free delivery, many residents use established intermediary shipping services.
Recommended Intermediary Shipping Services & Their Key Features:
- Aeropost: One of Costa Rica’s most trusted shipping providers, Aeropost is well-known for fast, door-to-door delivery, precise online tracking, and transparent handling of customs paperwork. Ideal for high-value purchases due to their reliability and experience.
- Liberty Express: Popular among residents looking for cost-effective shipping, Liberty Express provides reliable delivery timelines, detailed shipment tracking, and responsive customer support. They offer straightforward pricing without hidden fees.
- Cargo Tica: A well-established Costa Rican company renowned for personalized, attentive service. Cargo Tica handles packages carefully and expertly navigates Costa Rican customs, making them particularly suitable for delicate or specialty items.
- Jet Box: Known for convenience and speed, Jet Box offers multiple delivery options, competitive pricing, and bilingual customer service. Their efficient customs processing makes them a favorite among expats.
- Tied Together Shipping Company: A newer Costa Rican-owned business gaining popularity for personalized attention, clear bilingual communication, and commitment to customer satisfaction. Their transparent pricing and supportive customer approach set them apart, making them a fantastic local option.
Choosing any of these reputable intermediary services ensures reliable and worry-free delivery from the U.S. to your doorstep in Costa Rica.
Featured Real Estate Listing: Condo Avvia – San Rafael de Escazú
Modern Apartment Living with Panoramic Valley Views
Located in the desirable area of San Rafael de Escazú, Condo Avvia offers contemporary apartment living within an elegant and thoughtfully designed gated community. With only four apartments per floor, residents enjoy privacy, comfort, and unobstructed panoramic views of the Central Valley and lush Escazú mountains.
Apartment Layouts Available:
- 2-Bedroom Apartments:
- Size: Ranges from 99 to 117 square meters
- Layout: Two spacious bedrooms, two full bathrooms, and comfortable, open-concept living spaces.
- Features: Floor-to-ceiling windows, providing abundant natural light and breathtaking views, along with integrated kitchens designed for modern lifestyles.
- 3-Bedroom Apartments & Penthouses:
- Size: Ranges from 119 to 151 square meters
- Layout: Three bedrooms, two full bathrooms, generous living and dining areas, ideal for families seeking additional comfort and space. Penthouse units offer elevated luxury and premium finishes.
- Features: Expansive terraces, high-quality materials, and superior finishes throughout.
Community Amenities:
- Clubhouse & Co-working Spaces: Stylishly designed communal areas that provide a productive and comfortable environment for remote work or social gatherings.
- Fitness Center: Fully equipped modern gym facilities for residents aiming to maintain an active lifestyle.
- Swimming Pool with Lap Lane: Perfect for exercise or leisure, surrounded by beautifully landscaped green areas.
- Recreational Areas: Pet-friendly spaces, a children’s playground, a communal fire pit, walking trails, and expansive green zones to enjoy outdoor activities and community interaction.
- Security & Convenience: 24-hour gated security, two dedicated parking spaces per unit, additional visitor parking, and available storage options.
Location Benefits:
Situated strategically close to Route 27, Condo Avvia offers convenient access to top-tier shopping centers, international schools, restaurants, medical facilities, and entertainment venues. Its central yet tranquil setting makes it an exceptional choice for families, professionals, and retirees seeking a vibrant yet relaxed Costa Rican lifestyle.
Pricing & Delivery:
- Pre-construction Prices: From $315,000 to $550,000 depending on unit size and layout.
- Estimated Completion: Phase one delivery expected in the third quarter of 2026.
For detailed information, inquiries, or to schedule a personal tour: Explore Condo Avvia – Escazú
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Anthony
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