Tourism vs. drug trafficking in Costa Rica’s South Pacific: Local leaders in Golfito and nearby towns say they’re using tourism growth plus added security (including downtown cameras and a monitoring center planned for October) to improve safety and reshape the region’s image despite ongoing investigations. Medical tourism shift: Hospitals report more international visitors now coming for inpatient surgery and anesthesia—not just dental—driving higher spending and deeper care coordination. New luxury stays: Four Seasons Resort Peninsula Papagayo opened 10 residential-style one-bedroom suites, bookable for peak-season arrivals starting Dec. 17, 2026. Volcano access tightened: Poás Volcano National Park remains open under a green alert, but with stricter rules—helmet use, reduced crater-view capacity, and limited trails. Wildlife discovery: Scientists formally described a new deep-sea “ghost shark” species off Costa Rica’s Pacific coast. Travel planning reality check: A Canadian school board canceled international trips for the year, including Costa Rica, citing unpredictability and risk. Travel deals & rewards: Rental Escapes is offering up to $5,000 bonus commission through Sept. 30, while Rove added Copa Airlines ConnectMiles transfers with a limited-time bonus.