Airport Modernization: Juan Santamaría International Airport has started using its first four biometric eGates, letting eligible adult Costa Rican travelers clear immigration in seconds with biometric passports and facial recognition, with staff supervision and accessibility support on site. Politics & Power Perception: A new UCR/CIEP survey says 84% of Costa Ricans believe former President Rodrigo Chaves still influences decisions in Laura Fernández’s government, while Fernández rejects any idea of “dual presidentialism.” Immigration Crackdown: Costa Rica’s immigration police arrested a worker accused of manipulating residency renewal records in a scheme tied to alleged criminal links in Limón. Economy & Currency: Fernández says the government will not artificially peg the dollar’s exchange rate, pointing to jobs, tourism, and investment data. Tax Clarity for Travelers: Costa Rica explains how the 13% VAT works for overseas hotel bookings made with Costa Rican cards via platforms like Booking.com and Expedia, including how refunds can be requested. Public Safety: MOPT reports 425 road deaths through August, with motorcyclists making up 58% of fatalities. Environment & Wildlife: Researchers link unusually warm deep ocean water to mass crab deaths in Guanacaste, and authorities detained two people caught with 125 olive ridley sea turtle eggs at Ostional. Human Interest: José Flores, 119, is seeking international recognition as the world’s oldest person, pending verification.