This week in Costa Rica, lawmakers pushed a hard line on vaping, the dollar fell to its lowest level since 2005 just as high season kicks in, and wildlife, tourism and live music all took center stage. Here’s what actually matters if you live in, invest in, or travel to Costa Rica.
Top News Story
Lowest dollar rate since 2005 squeezes Costa Rica’s high season tourism
The dollar exchange rate dropped to around ¢488, its weakest level since 2005, cutting into income for hotels, tour operators and other businesses that earn mostly in foreign currency. While people paid in colones or servicing dollar loans get a bit of relief, tourism businesses entering peak season say the strong colón is eroding margins just as they staff up and stock up for the holidays
More key stories
Costa Rica eyes sweeping vape ban to curb teen use and health risks
A lawmaker from the ruling party has introduced a bill that would outlaw vapes entirely in Costa Rica, targeting their import, sale and use nationwide. The proposal responds to rising teen vaping and health concerns and would put our country among the strictest in the region if approved.
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Costa Rica leads push to protect sloths from booming illegal trade
Costa Rica is spearheading a regional effort to crack down on the illegal trade in sloths, pushing for tighter controls and better enforcement at borders and tourist hotspots. Conservation groups report more cases of sloths being taken from the wild for selfies, roadside attractions and foreign sales.t.
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Bad Bunny lights up National Stadium with hits and heartfelt messages
Bad Bunny opened his two sold-out shows at San José’s National Stadium with a high-energy performance that mixed his biggest hits with emotional messages to Costa Rican fans. The production featured massive screens, lights and a set list built around his recent albums, while security and transport plans were put to the test by tens of thousands of concertgoers..
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Costa Rica ranks third in 2025 Global Retirement Index
International Living’s 2025 Global Retirement Index placed Costa Rica in third place worldwide, keeping it among the top destinations for retirees despite a slight slide from past years. The ranking highlights the country’s healthcare system, climate, residency options and perceived safety.
Hilton opens first all-suites hotel in Costa Rica at Cariari site
Hilton’s new Homewood Suites by Hilton Cariari opened in Belén, Heredia, after an investment of over $30 million, becoming the brand’s first all-suites hotel in Central and South America. The property targets business and long-stay travelers with kitchen-equipped rooms and extended-stay services, and adds another major international flag to the already crowded hotel corridor near the airport and western San José.
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In case you missed it
Spotlight
Mass die-off in Costa Rica’s Madre de Dios Lagoon alarms communities and scientists
Costa Rica’s Defensoría de los Habitantes issued a stark warning on gender-based violence, reporting 33 femicides so far this year — one of the deadliest tallies since 2015. The Ombudsman links the crisis to deep-rooted inequality, weak state responses, and labor and care systems that leave women exposed, especially in poorer communities.
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