Tourism Costs & Housing Pressure: A new UNA/Idespo PIC report says Costa Ricans near the coast feel prices have jumped across daily life—food, restaurants, transport, and even Airbnb—while real estate is the biggest worry, with 85% saying coastal property sale prices are up, especially in Guanacaste. UNESCO Geopark Push: UNED and SINAC-MINAE have started the application process to make Chirripó a UNESCO Global Geopark, aiming to spread tourism beyond the main peak while protecting geology and supporting local and Indigenous communities. Wildlife Tourism Spotlight: Ostional’s olive ridley arribada is underway, with thousands nesting at Guanacaste’s refuge and more expected through Friday night and into Saturday. Cruise Growth in Puntarenas: INCOP projects about 150,000 cruise passengers for 2026–2027, with 72 ship visits—up sharply from last season—boosting demand for tours, transport, and local stops. VAT Update for Travelers: Costa Rica expands its 13% VAT list for foreign digital services, adding Booking.com, Expedia, and ChatGPT (and more), meaning higher totals on card statements for bookings and subscriptions. New Direct Access: British Airways will move its San José route from Gatwick to Heathrow starting Oct. 25, adding winter frequency and more connection options.