What are you looking for in Costa Rica?

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Looking for something in Costa Rica

Just what are you looking for in Costa Rica? Trying to locate someone? Trying to check up on a loved one? Perhaps, finding a piece of real estate to purchase. Whatever the case we are here and are ready to help in any way that we can. Some of the things that have changed dramatically over the past 2 years due to the covid pandemic. Such as people moving to live with family due to no work for example.Currently, there are numerous schemes and scams going on with regard to visitors coming to Costa Rica that are unaware of the changes that have occurred during this time. Remember always that you are in a third world country. Be prudent and cautious.

 

Changes came from top level in Government

Regardless of what you are looking for in Costa Rica, inquiries and the manner to obtain them has been impacted by the changes brought on as a result of Covid 19. According to the University of Costa Rica all of the information concerning the pandemic and the subsequent changes has been orchestrated by to level government.

Most who seek locating someone here are unaware that Costa Rica has no street addresses. It is all descriptive. Additionally there are no protocols in place that update the locations as they are listed in the various registries. Some of the locations could be one to twenty years old. The older the listing of an address the higher likelihood of landmarks changes increases with time. Contacting the U.S. Embassy here to locate someone is uneventful as they will refer you yo the local law enforcement agencies.

Nevertheless

We are here to help you. Our firm has accumulated years of experience and knowledge about this beautiful country. I know what can be reasonable expectations on obtaining the information you seek. We also are a law firm and can help you with many things others can’t.

Expectations of a Costa Rica private investigation

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Reasonable expectations of a Costa Rica private  investigation

In any relationship, there are two sides to every story. What should be your expectations of a Costa Rica investigation?  An investigator may consider an absurd request of a client, could stem from from simple lack of communication.  During the process.on giving facts which not only satisfy the case but to satisfy the client may confusing. A private investigators work is in a results-driven market.  It is here  these heightened beliefs which drive some investigators to always bring their respective “A-game” to each assignment. However, this may also lead some investigators to worry in those rare occasions where your results may fall short of your goals, (as well as the client’s interest  future engagements).

Private investigations are not an exact science

As with most who provide services, we do not always have the luxury of hand-selecting our clients.  In some instances we are faced with certain clients who can be more of a burden than a blessing.  Nothing is more frustrating to an investigator than a client who tries and manage an investigation by intruding or withholding information. This alone could result in less than an optimal result 

Communication assist with clear expectations of a Costa Rica Private Investigation

Accepting any assignment, it is critical to communicate to the client the importance of sharing as much information as possible. I always verbally and write communications the are integral to the inquiry. From the beginning  (no matter how minute the details may be) it may prove to be vital during the course of the investigation. It is equally as important to “tone-down” any preconceived notions of what they may expect,as a result of your efforts. The most effective way is to communicate to your client not only what information is potentially attainable, but more importantly, what may not be within the confines of the law.  It is important during the course of your investigation, to keep the client apprised with a brief email or phone call so that they know you are on top of their situation.

No Guarantees

It is important that the client understand that there are no guarantees for this type of work. The nature  and scope of the investigation industry does not allow for guarantees. Many clients are under the impression that if the information they seek is not available or doesn’t exist they should not have to pay. Thus, it is essential that the need to communicate and at times educate the clients as to the limitations that are present in any type of investigation.

 

 

 

 

Rental Car Scams in Costa Rica

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Avoiding Rental Car Scams in Costa Rica

Like most of the losses we suffer when traveling are due to not having all the information. The best way to avoid rental car scams in Costa Rica is having sufficient information. Recently, I read a very good article written by Nikki Solano outlying the ins and outs of renting a car here. There are several things that you as a tourist need to be aware of when renting a car here. My time here went from tourist, to resident to citizen. I have firsthand knowledge of the pitfalls of renting a car in Costa Rica. Probably the largest issue is the one of insurance. Do not get economical when selecting collision coverage for your rental. If you do you may have the shock of your life at the bill you could receive.

Collision Damage Waiver

The law of Costa Rica requires that all cars have liability insurance. It is mandatory.  What is not mandatory is collision damage and uninsured motorist coverage. Although the mandatory liability rates are somewhat reasonable, the collision damage is not. I am not saying that the insurance is a scam. However, I am saying if you don’t know the rules it can wound up costing you thousands of dollars.

When you reserve a rental car here bear in mind that there may be hidden cost and fees that are not disclosed until you are at the counter. I know of some car rental rules that require a $2500 hold on you credit card just to rent the car. What is not disclosed to you if you decline the collision damage, is, the additional expense of repairing the car. If you have an accident the rental company has the right to the whole $2500 plus charging the estimated damage cost to your card, regardless of fault.

What’s the solution?

You can buy the collision coverage and select the deductible you want to be responsible for which is based on a sliding scale. (The higher the deductible the lower the premium) But remember you deductible will be charged to your credit card. Another option, Is your credit cards.  if you have VISA or an American Express card, is that prior to coming to Costa Rica, you contact the credit card company and activate your rental auto insurance.This eliminates the need to take the rental car company’s coverage and leave it to your credit card coverage to work it out. The caveat is that the rental car company will charge your credit car for the full amount of the damage. Once the credit card insurance pays the invoice the amount will be credited back to your account.

Why does this occur

Costa Rica culturally is competitive by nature. All one has to do is drive here just to see first hand how dangerous and how easily an auto accident can occur. The rental car companies are not deliberately be deceptive, but the bottom line is profit. If that means you have to pay more, then, so be it. Additionally, one would have to be terribly naive not to conclude that the car rental car profits for selling you their insurance. Any marketing device that one car rental company can use to promote and position its company over another they will do it. If you want me to look at the car reservation before you book it and point out things you need to know, contact me at codygear@gmail.com.

To learn more click: www.codygear.com

 

 

 

 

Uvita

New Regulations after Relaxing Pandemic rules in Costa Rica

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What you need to know:

Costa Rica is once again slowly but surely returning to some sort of normalcy. It would be helpful to outline some of the new regulations after relaxing pandemic rules in Costa Rica, First and foremost is the safety of all. You cannot enter a business without washing your hands and wearing a mask. So, it is not optional and you can face criminal charges if you don’t. But most businesses and restaurants have installed wash basins outside their businesses.

Restaurants and bars are restricted to capacity and activities. So don ‘t think it has returned to the point where the favorite watering hole will be slammed. Likewise, restaurants are limited to capacity and hours of operation. So, a word to the wise, before you go call and make a reservation. If you don’t you may wound up at McDonalds.

 

Some of the New Regulations after Relaxing Pandemic rules in Costa Rica

As you might be able to interpolate, you can see the easing of restrictions as they apply to specific dates. So a word to the wise would tell you that if you have plans to go to a restaurant, call first and make a reservation.

Vehicle Restrictions

“To restrict the movement of people”, driving restrictions have been put into place. The new Regulations after Relaxing Pandemic, vehicles can only circulate between the hours of 5:00 a.m. and 11:00 p.m. all week long. These times correspond with the hours that most businesses are allowed to be open.

Previously, driving on certain days was also restricted, based on your license plate number. But as of March 1, 2021 all license plate restrictions have been lifted. All cars can now circulate everyday, except in downtown San Jose (for traffic control purposes). See this chart for San Jose restrictions.

Note: Tourism related vehicles (e.g. shuttle vans/tour vans) as well as rental cars are exempt from the driving restrictions. If you need to drive outside the allowed hours or within the San Jose downtown area (e.g you need to catch an early morning flight or are staying at a hotel in San Jose), you should be fine if you present your plane ticket/hotel reservation to the traffic police.” These restrictions are being enforce by the Transit Police and the number of cars they have seized is enormous.

Our team of professionals are at your disposal for any questions or guidance with regard to these new rules. Don’t hesitate to call us for the “skinny”.

 

What has Happened in Costa Rica

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Costa Rica Recent Changes

Many of the phone calls I am getting now have one overriding theme. In my absence what has happened in Costa Rica? Certainly if you have an interest in Costa Rica you have probably have read things that have occurred and the Government response. Many have a loved ones here and due to the distance and travel restrictions have endured months of no physical contact. The changes have had minimal impact currently. Everything seems to be headed back to normalcy. But knowing the government past actions nothing is certain.

Other things affected by the

Others have real property here and have had to rely on other people to oversee and protect their property during their absence. What has happened in Costa Rica as a result of this long term shutdown, will take years to analyze. Others need to check on their tax status as there have been changes in the law that affect them. Whatever the case may be, it will be in your interest to consider the things we know.

The most common inquiry we get is about personal relationships that have been separated for a long time. Since the pandemic, travel has been severely hindered, making it impossible to visit Costa Rica. But, before we get into that, there are some things you need to know prior to coming. Currently the country is in turmoil due to the government passing new taxes. This has resulted in major civil unrest and protest. Tico’s protest by blocking traffic, so when you arrive and are stuck in traffic for hours this is the reason. For the most part it has been relatively docile.

However, there have been more instances of violence, especially in more impoverished areas of San Jose. Prudence would be learning the situation in the area you are attempting to visit. If your girlfriend lives in Desamparadas for example, you may want to meet her elsewhere until the civil unrest diminishes or subsides.

How about my Costa Rica Girlfriend

Now for your girlfriend. Many of the women who have been impacted by this pandemic are trying to survive. Unlike the United States, the government here has done nothing as far as pandemic relief for its people. Most are without jobs and are barely making it, Currently Costa Rica has the highest level of poverty in their history. This make people who are desperate for money do things that they may not have done in the past. For the most part they have done without since the pandemic began.

Don’t be surprised that your special friend is, for all practical purposes, destitute. They need basics and have suffered for a long time. Using good judgment and evaluating the situation will help you help them the most. As far as their activities during this time being openly and freely discussed. I doubt seriously that you will learn much. During the “shutdown” almost all of the watering holes and beaches have been closed. Travel was restricted to specific hours and strictly enforced. Most night time travel was banned.

Viewing the economic circumstances as objectively as I can, I don’t expect the country will recover any time soon. It may take years to get back to a “normal” level. Given the government’s lack of preparation and willingness to help it’s people it may never recover.

 

Legal

Getting Things Done in Costa Rica

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Getting things Done in Costa Rica

Why is it so hard to accomplish things in Costa Rica? I’ve encountered this and I have a better understanding of the reason. Although Costa Rica is third-world, as you can see with businesses such as Starbucks and PF Chang’s, it is amazing how much they have progressed in terms of service and creativity. You should keep in mind that the government employs most people here. This may be one reason why you’ve found getting things done an uphill battle.

Why is it so hard to accomplish things in Costa Rica? I know there are many reasons why getting things done sometimes takes longer than usual, but sometimes can be accomplished faster than expected.  Only with paying a “propina” (tip) to the bureaucrat will make it happen faster.

What makes getting things done in Costa Rica so difficult?

Driving around the streets of San Jose is a chaotic experience. Roads are in disarray with high traffic and gridlock, creating a frustration for drivers. The government has failed to privatise road management and infrastructure development effectively, leading to this problem plaguing Costa Rica’s transportation system.

For the country, it means reduced productivity and higher costs through importing goods or products produced elsewhere. There are several business opportunities within the ICT sector that will enable private investors to take advantage of the opportunity in building new products that will help alleviate this problem and do so for cost-effectively.

Example of getting things done in Costa Rica

Let me give you an example. You want to find the owner of a piece of property. In the US, it is relatively easy to do. Simply visit your county tax office or property appraiser and within ten minutes you have all the information you need. But in Costa Rica, the process is much more complex. You mail in a request for ownership and once it’s approved (or denied) you can then file for an official transfer of ownership.

The registry holds public records – police reports, court records, and more. It serves as a one-stop shop to you the information you need — but that doesn’t mean that it’s easy to use. Online searches are often difficult, and in person visits are time consuming and inefficient.

The time you spend waiting for a record is an opportunity wasted. You should be able to get the information you need with ease and on your own schedule.

After all that there is more to getting things done

Once the property has been identified, determining the owner is the next obstacle that has to be overcome. If the property is owned by anyone other than a Costa Rica National, it will be in the form of a S.A. (Sociedad Anonomia). This S.A. similar  to a Nevada Corporation in the States, where the individual owner is not listed. For years, the Costa Rica Government has required this as a vehicle to purchase real property. Thereby promoting and fostering all manner of corrupt activities.

If you want something done and done as quickly as possible, you need to retain professionals who are here and know the system and how it works. Even with such help it can take time as nothing seems to move here with speed, everything is, “manana”. If you choose to do it your self, remember that getting things done in Costa Rica is time consuming and slow. It will try your patience and your wallet.

 

Prep for surveillance

Conducting Surveillance in Costa Rica

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Prep for surveillanceConducting surveillance in Costa Rica presents challenges not faced by private investigators in the United States. When a client calls and wants surveillance conducted here in Costa Rica I try to give them reasonable expectations on the results of such surveillance. Unlike the United States, private investigators can have sufficient time to capture indiscretions> Here we usually have less than a week. In some instances even less time. If you call me to conduct surveillance, I will tell you, “the target of surveillance never performs on cue”.

 

What is necessary

Surveillance is being in the right place at the right time and discreetly capturing the indiscretion on video. That means that the target cannot know they are being watched or their activities are being recorded. Many of the venues in Costa Rica have ramped up security in the form of CCTV and security guards. They are sensitive to videoing and will not hesitate to ask what you are doing. Thus not only does the PI need to be discreet, but they must also be discreet and vigilant as to their surroundings.

For this reason, we use teams of investigators usually comprised of two or three to carry out a surveillance. There are some P.I.’s that are on the web that use just one person for surveillance. Indeed, they subcontract the surveillance to someone you don’t know and refuse to identify them. I know of one PI that was deported from Costa Rica and is advertising services here and he can’t even enter the country. Thus it pays to vet the PI and make sure he has the experience and resources to carry out the surveillance.

Case Review

Recently we had a surveillance in a resort that has extremely tight security. Many of the places that people rent are private residences within the resort and are only accessible through a guarded gate. If you are not a guest you are denied entry. The resort is patrolled by security guards who check visitors and routinely ask them their purpose for being there. Fortunately, the resort rents golf carts which don’t draw the attention of a roaming car. Use of the golf cart helps but if you remain stationary for any length of time a guard will approach you. This means that you have to be on a constant move.

Surveillance Targets

Targets that are involved in an affair are sensitive to seeing the same person or car more than once. This requires that you change personnel frequently. Through diligence and perseverance usually enjoy success. Many of our clients think that capturing public displays of affection is commonplace. Here again, targets do not perform on cue. You have to be in the right place at the right time to capture PDA’s. Investigators cannot manufacture or script such activities.

All in all, if you have reasonable expectations you will not be disappointed in the results. If your expectations are those that are shown on TV programs such as “Cheaters” you will be disappointed in the results. Make sure you discuss expectations and results with your private investigator in order to make your surveillance successful.

Costa Rica and “Mickey Finn”

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Coming to Costa Rica and “Mickey Finn”

A social media working girl had a lot more on her mind than friendship, Costa Rica investigators say.

A Costa Rica woman woman prowled for victims on the social networks and then arranged for an intimate rendezvous according to Costa Rica Private Investigator.

Our client as well as several others, I imagine took the bait. The woman was a “mickey finn” scammer who quickly spiked the drink of her new male victim and then clean out the apartment or house. The Judicial Investigating Organization (OIJ) suspects she obtained at least $15,000 in jewelry in one case. OIJ suspects the same woman of committing the same crime against another man where she took almost $10,000 in cash. There are many stories similar to this one. Our reason for mentioning this is due to the Costa Rica culture being one that is given to stealing. Some say it’s competition but in my book its stealing.

Costa Rica and “Mickey Finn”

Many who come here in search of establishing a relationship with a women are susceptible to this type of scam. The problem here is that these women are using some type of drug to incapacitate the victim in order to carry out their theft. Many of the men who visit here are older and many have health conditions that places them in peril if they are drugged with the wrong type of medication.  By taking up an ad on a person that is offering an intimate relationship, that no one knows, is like a crap shoot. You may or may not survive it.

News reports that OIJ Agents said they located some of the items when they searched the woman’s home in Desamparados Tuesday. When OIJ agents searched the woman’s home in Desamparados Tuesday, agents said they located some of the items. She faces charges of aggravated robbery and attempted murder.

This is another example in a long line of examples of scammers who prey upon the unsuspecting. More often than not the the victim is an expat. Most victims say they were overcame by sudden drowsiness after taking one or more women to their apartment.

Dealing with a Cheating Spouse in Costa Rica

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Dealing with a Cheating Spouse in Costa Rica

I have many clients that ask me what do I do when dealing with a cheating spouse in Costa Rica? Have you just recently learned or recently become suspicious  that your spouse is or has been cheating on you? If you have concrete proof, you may want to confront him or her right away. Of course, it is your decision to do so, but there are a few important points that you will want to take into consideration first. After all, calling out a cheating spouse is a major step, but is it one that you are ready to take? Has he all of a sudden take a real interest in travelling to Costa Rica alone? Is he being untruthful with you as to his destinations, hotel and transportation?  All of these are signs of infidelity which you need answers.

When looking to confront a cheating spouse, it is important to know that you can do so at just about any point in time. If you are ready to confront your spouse now, go ahead and do so. If you would prefer to wait, like until you are ready to start divorce proceedings, be sure to wait. Although it may be difficult to stand the sight of your significant other, it is important to proceed with caution. It is always best to have proof in the form of a photo or video to show them in the event of denial. Remember a picture is worth a thousand words.

One of the best times to confront your spouse is when you have concrete proof. Did you seem them cheating? Were they having \*\*\* or just out to dinner? What about documentation? Do you have pictures or video of your spouse having inappropriate actions with another? Do you have credit card receipts or cell phone bills that point towards an affair? If you do, you may be ready to confront your spouse. Unfortunately, too many men and women make the mistake of jumping the gun.

Although there is a good chance that you may choose to forgive your cheating spouse, you may also wish to terminate the relationship. Until you are ready to start divorce proceedings, it is a wise idea to not say anything. Many men and women feel comfort and peace of mind when they are first able to get their life in order before they spring a divorce on their husband or wife.

Another sign that you may be ready to confront your cheating spouse is if you are ready to leave the home if you have to. With that being said, it is important to not leave in certain circumstances. Is the home in your name? Do you help to pay the bills or do you pay most of them? Do you have children? If so, you may want to refrain from uprooting your whole life. Instead, make your cheating spouse leave. Just know that they may refuse to do so right away.

As previously stated, it is a wise idea to get your affairs in order before confronting a cheating spouse and asking them for a divorce. You will want to place a good focus on your finances. Are you in good financial standing? Does most of your money belong to your spouse or is it in their control? If so, you may want to wait. Unless you have a good and secure network of friends and family members, it is important to make sure that you can financially survive on your own, especially if you have children.

The best time to confront a cheating spouse is when you know it is safe to do so. Does your husband or wife have violent tendencies? If so, be sure to keep the kids away. Next, consider confronting them in public or have a trusted friend, relative, or the police on hand. For your safety, never confront a cheating spouse who has been drinking or who has used drugs. This is likely to increase the chance of violence. Confronting your spouse and ending your relationship should be important to you, but please don’t put yourself at risk.

Since there are no guarantees that cheating could be going on, even with the above mentioned signs present, additional steps should be taken. These steps can and should include monitoring cell phone calls, viewing the cell phone bill, or hiring a private investigator. Never confront your husband or wife without the proper proof. Be sure to get solid evidence of cheating, otherwise you could be creating a whole new problem in your relationship.

Playa Samara

Costa Rica Accidental and Violent Deaths

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Accidental and violent deaths

Playa Samara

Playa Samara

According to the Costa Rica Red Cross, this December has seen the highest number of Costa Rica accidental and violent deaths in over six years.  This December has witnessed 105 violent or accidental deaths, in addition to 350 persons seriously injured by violence or accidents. These risks are seldom publicized to tourists when traveling here.

The Red Cross broke down the death and injuries to a total of 37 people killed this month as the result of traffic accidents, while another 155 suffered serious injuries. Between December 1st and December 30th, 24 people were killed with firearms, knives, or sharp weapons, while another 69 remain in serious or critical condition.

Water is one of the major sources of deaths

A total of 10 people have been killed in water-related accidents at beaches, rivers, or lakes – three of them minors. The fact is that the government doesn’t want to publicize Costa Rica accidental and violent deaths.

It is always advisable to exercise caution when traveling in Costa Rica. The roadway system is inadequate for the heavy traffic that presents itself on a daily basis. The Pacific Ocean is known for its deadly run-outs which claim lives every year. The other violent deaths are primarily associated with the local population. However, you should avoid areas that by their very appearance suggest danger.

Almost all of the public beaches here have no lifeguards and no warning signs. I investigated the deaths and learned the government has done nothing for safety.  Tragically, 8 souls were lost at one time at Playa Seca which is north of Quepos. The victims were part of a high school exploration trip. When they arrived 6 teenagers and 2 chaperones perished in a rip current. As a result of the bad publicity, the Costa Rica government posted signs warning of a rip current which was torn down by locals.

Most who visit here take for granted that emergency services are readily available. They are not and response time for first responders can vary from 15 minutes to 2 hours. Most of the hospitals outside the greater San Jose area are not always staffed with doctors.

It’s a good idea to familiarize yourself prior to coming in order to plan your trip with safety in mind. The visitor’s bureau does not promote publicity about Costa Rica Accidental and violent deaths.

Reach out to a member of our investigative team, get the answers to any questions you might have.

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