Wellness Tourism: Costa Rica is being pitched as the world’s next wellness capital, with travelers drawn to the idea that nature, sustainability, and community aren’t “add-ons” but the real package. Public Health & Safety: Costa Rica’s domestic violence protection orders climbed to 28,104 requests in the first half of 2026, alongside ongoing concerns about sexual violence and femicides. Culture & Craft: Forbes spotlights an oxcart-painting workshop at El Silencio Lodge & Spa, where visitors learn traditional painted designs from local artists instead of buying mass souvenirs. Environment: A new report warns pesticide runoff is quietly draining Costa Rica’s Caribbean tourism economy, with chemical traces found in river ecosystems near banana and pineapple areas. Policy Watch: Costa Rica’s vape flavor rules were delayed—what was supposed to change this week now won’t until 2027, though current restrictions still apply. Civic Tension: Costa Rica is set for demonstrations defending judicial independence as the government–Judiciary clash escalates.