Even a well-traveled tourist can fall victim to crime. Don’t make the same mistake…

Originally published in Viva. DOWNLOAD

Suzan Crane looks at the heavy-hitting international music groups headlining in Costa Rica. Originally published in Landings, Nature Air’s in-flight magazine.

Surf, sand and scenery have long been Costa Rica’s stock in trade. But recently the small Central American nation has been rocked to its core as heavy-hitting international music groups thunder to its shores. This year alone, Iron Maiden, Metallica, Korn, POD, Megadeth and Aerosmith have staged concerts here, portending a cataclysmic live music revolution that will continue through 2010 with MxPx in August, Green Day in October and subsequent dates rumored for Bon Jovi and Pearl Jam. Inside talk hints at U2 and ACDC in 2011.
 Read more…

Suzan Crane reports on the imminent opening of the multi-million dollar Pela Vez Marina in Quepos, Costa Rica.

First there was talk. Lots of it. After years of false starts, the troops stormed in last year and cleared the Manuel Antonio beachfront of illegal vendors, petty thieves and general-interest hustlers, relocating them to an inconspicuous side street. The massive cleanup effort was just one step toward a more refined future for one of Costa Rica’s top tourist destinations.

 Read more…

Suzan Crane reports on Costa Rica’s countless street animal population and what’s being done to help them. Originally published in Landings, Nature Air’s in-flight magazine.

Homeless and abandoned animals carpet streets throughout the world but developing nations are particularly afflicted with the lack of resources and education that lead to the epidemic. According to the U.S. Humane Society, a female cat can have up to three litters of five kittens per year, potentially producing 420,000 cats in seven years total. In just six years, one female dog and her brood can deliver as many as 67,000 puppies.
 Read more…

What’s better than a superb ocean view? That same vista enjoyed from a relaxing beachfront spa. Suzan Crane and others select their top spa-resort choices. This excerpt is from Five Best Beach Spas.

At the foot of a rutted jungle road skirted by amazing ocean vistas awaits the relaxed luxury of Arenas Del Mar. Exemplifying nature/nurture harmony, this boutique beach resort nestles on 11 acres of wildlife-rich rain forest just steps from a jeweled sea. Adjacent to famed Manuel Antonio National Park on Costa Rica’s Pacifi c Coast, the ecoconscious hotel features 38 rooms with panoramic views, two pools, three restaurants and a spa. Built and operated in accordance with Costa Rica’s Certificate for Sustainable Tourism, electric carts shuttle guests and solar panels heat balcony Jacuzzis.

 Read more…