New Resort Buzz (Guanacaste): JW Marriott Costa Elena Resort & Spa is set to open Sept. 10 on 3,000 acres in northwest Guanacaste, with 11 dining options, a full spa/wellness setup, and big meeting space. Luxury Real Estate (Punta Cacique): Punta Cacique’s branded ownership model keeps drawing buyers, with direct beach access, spa and thermal pools, and a managed rental option. Tourism Calendar (Uvita): The 16th Whale and Dolphin Festival runs Sept. 4–6 in Costa Ballena, timed to humpback season near Marino Ballena National Park. Nature & Safety (Rincón de la Vieja): Costa Rica issued a preventive green alert for five areas near the volcano after 100+ eruptions in July–August, with lahars a key concern. Travel Rules & Wildlife: Officials say it’s illegal to take wildlife or plants home; the #WhatYouCarry campaign highlights confiscations since 2024. Road Upgrades (Santa Ana): The Brasil de Santa Ana council urges MOPT to speed up interchange improvements on Route 22, debating overpass vs. a roundabout fix. UNESCO Push (Chirripó): UNED and SINAC renew efforts to make Chirripó Costa Rica’s first UNESCO Global Geopark, building management and community plans ahead of any final bid. Immigration Update: Costa Rica’s new temporary legal status program has received 98 applications on Sept. 1, aiming to regularize thousands of eligible people. Heads-Up (Fraud): A UK-linked “ethical forestry” tree-planting scam tied to Costa Rica ended with prison sentences for directors after investors lost millions.