Airport & Travel Tech: San José Airport will roll out biometric eGates to speed immigration, starting with Costa Ricans using biometric passports and expanding in phases. Public Health: Costa Rica confirmed two new monkeypox cases in San José and activated contact-tracing and surveillance, stressing low risk of community spread. Road Safety & Compliance: A 2025 review found 36.23% of vehicles failed Costa Rica’s first technical inspection, with emissions, tires, and brakes among top reasons. Economy & Cost of Living: The U.S. dollar hit record lows in Costa Rica’s official market, reshaping finances for dollar earners and retirees. Environment & Courts: A lawyer asked a court to suspend thresher shark exports, arguing stronger international protections became binding in late June. Tourism & Awards: El Lugar Costa Rica earned a 2026 Tripadvisor Travelers’ Choice spot in the top 10% worldwide. Culture & Film: Costa Rican filmmaker Natalia Solórzano Vásquez’s hybrid documentary “Spells to Revive a Witch” gained backing from Spain and Uruguay, while Hilda Hidalgo is developing “Cousins” with a documentary-style approach. Crime & Security: TikTok influencer Gabriela Sanarrusia and her boyfriend were shot dead in La Cruz; police say suspects fled and no arrests have been announced. Sports: Costa Rica’s NORCECA beach volleyball campaign continues as teams fight for positions in the Roatán stop. Coffee & Exports: A Los Santos coffee sold for $200.10 per pound at the 2026 Cup of Excellence, helping drive near-$800,000 total sales.