Costa Rica Sims Estate Blog

Hello everyone.  Chase Roddenham is my ‘At Home with …’ victim for February.

I love this job sometimes.  Why?  ‘Rolls my eyes’ need you really ask?  I mean, not only do I get to spend some time with the utterly gorgeous Chase (who I am sorry to tell you ladies, is a confirmed bachelor) but I also get to nose around his houses, yes you read that correctly houseS!  He has two you see.  Chase thinks of the Costa Rica Sims as the Beverly Hills of Second Life.

Thank you Chase for allowing us into your home, or should I say homes.  Tell us what brought you to Second Life?

Ah, I have friends who had been playing for a while and I saw it at their house.  They bugged me for year to play and finally I gave in and here I am.  It immediately struck me as a fun place to be, seeing all that could be done and the interaction between people on a global level.

How have you spent your time in Second Life?

I just really hang out, go to clubs, meet interesting people, explore, and dabble in owning a business with a business partner.

What sort of business would that be?

I try to make tattoos, some casual men's clothing..... My SL sister Jaraloy Swords......makes jewellery......so we share shop space.

And what is it called?

The names of the stores are SolChase and Colt485, actually SolChase/Aidoru and Aidoru/Colt485.  She better at it then I am, I just did it because I got bored...lol.

How did you come to find the Costa Rica Sims?

I was staying with my friends, Suzee Janus and my SL bro Rafe Rodenberger, they live here near the national park and they’ve been here almost 4 years.  So I was flying around CR one day and saw the island across from this for sale and I bought it.

Then when this one came up for sale ...I bought it too.  I have sort of a lagoon between both of the houses.

What makes CRS different to other estates in your opinion?

It is well managed, well cared for, has many activities for the residents oh and lol, the CR public chat …. It is fun to go on and tease you CR women.  I especially love teasing Peyton.  The people are the greatest. Used to tease Sam a lot too.

Tell us a bit about the parcels you have here – Did you do the landscaping yourself, if not who did and what was their brief?  Who is your favourite content creator when it comes to landscaping?

I did the landscaping myself.  My dad owned a landscaping company in RL.... so it’s a natural for me. Actually the house across the lagoon was featured on Heart Gardens flickr.  Dolly Heart or her partner came by and saw the house and landscaping, asked me to use their products and re-landscape, which I did and they photographed it and put on their flickr.  That was about year or so ago.  I really like their products.  As for other products ....the houses ....whatever strikes my interest..... I buy and use it.  I love architecture and most contemporary designs.

Who are the builders of your houses?

This one is Isa Paris, the other is by Oct Oyen (above). Both houses are next to Gecko Reserve and the scuba area where I can swim and see the fish.

With regard to the interiors – have you gone with a theme; describe what you have done and where your furniture etc. came from and why you chose those pieces specifically?

Well that was a learning curve for me.  I had help from a friend in CR from Solitaire Bamaisin, she does interiors, so she helped a bit.

I chose the furnishings because I like clean lines, almost boring. Both houses are done slightly similar, very low key, some colour and interesting art work. I like interesting art work some tastefully erotic......not too blatant.  Most are original, not sold in SL, which I’ve imported.

The Oct Oyen house is my favourite of the two.  It has the feeling of being on a ship about it.

I added the deck myself which gives a spectacular view. I also added the bathroom.

I have kept the furnishings simple put the curved wall to have some architectural interest. Making these changes keeps it very personal.

This bachelor boy has all the toys and gizmo’s any boy could possibly want, a Clay Ellison motorboat, a racing yacht, a helicopter, yes with its own helo pad and the pool spa area has a bar where Chase can drink champagne to his heart’s desire.

Thank you once again Chase for allowing us into your home.

Well dear friends that wraps up the latest in the ‘At home with ….’ series of interviews with residents of the Costa Rica Sims of the Dream Seeker Estates.

Until next time, Live, Laugh and Love with the Costa Rica Sims.

xoxo

Lacy Muircastle

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BREAKFAST AT MIMI’S

Costa Rica Sims resident Miss Mimi Juneau cordially invites you every first Sunday of the month at 10:00 AM SLT for "Breakfast At Mimi's."

Mimi will share with her guests the latest creations from some of the biggest fashion houses in Second Life. 

Under the Pavilion, within the beautifully designed open air garden area created by renowned artist Ericaanne Hastings, Breakfast at Mimi's will include a fashion show and a live music performance.  The show will feature fashions for both men and women by designers currently represented by Mimi within her store, Mimi's Choice.

The models are all from Costa Rica Sims and are under the direction of Brendan Macarthur, Director of Costa Rica Sims Productions.

There is an exclusive gift for all those who join us for breakfast. Following the conclusion of the fashion show, the amazing singer Cranston Yordstorm will entertain us from 11:00am until Noon SLT

Don't miss this great opportunity to mix, mingle and meet your fellow Costa Rica Sims residents in a beautiful relaxed setting. Come out and meet new people, make new friends, and dance with your partners and friends after the breakfast.

THE DESIGNERS

EGOISME  ~  UTOPIA  ~  DIRAM  ~  SARTORIA  ~  SF DESIGN

TRES BEAU  ~  VITAMEN  ~  MEB  ~  ORAGE CREATIONS

GABRIEL  ~  JADOR  ~  GIZZA

THE MODELS

Hikaru Enimo  ~  Ramsa Luv

AnnaG Pfeffer  ~  Laurel (laurelrose.anthony)

Rhonda Elaine Pennell (rhonda.pennell)  ~  Veronica Jane Krasner (veronica.krasner)

WHEN

Sunday, February 5^th, 2012 @ 10:00AM SLT

WHERE

Costa Rica Botanical Gardens

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Costa Rica Sims Productions was established in August 2009, and has since produced a variety of high-quality fashion shows and events from the best Second Life® designers.

CONTACT:  Brendan Macarthur, Director of Costa Rica Sims Productions

EMAIL: This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it

WEBSITE: http://www.costaricasims.com

© COSTA RICA SIMS PRODUCTIONS PRESS RELEASE DECEMBER 2012

Here is the link to the photographs from the

Costa Rica sims Production for

EGOISME

http://www.flickr.com/photos/tillie/sets/72157629072753457/show/

Thank you to all who attended and worked so hard to make this show a success

Even though I tend to be a minimalist, I’m not going to lie and say fashion is irrelevant… I am suave, sophisticated and successful; I am Mr. Costa Rica Sims 2012.

Is this YOU?

Costa Rica Sims Pageants brings you:  Minimalist(s)-The men of Wall Street.  There is L$100,000 in cash and prizes to be won.

Have you got all that it takes to be the next Mr. Costa Rica Sims?

Your challenge will be to represent the Minimalist men of Wall Street in three categories: Formal wear, Casual wear and the Cigar room.

Have a look at the following photos and click them for the links for inspiration:

Dates to diarise:

February 5-10, 2012-Casting

February 18th-Announcement

February 25th-Photoshoot for Website voting

March 3rd-Meet and Greet Party

March 10th-First Rehearsal (3pm slt)

March 17th-Dress Rehearsal and interview with judges (3pm slt)

March 24th-Cigar Room show with contestants and Mr. Costa Rica Sims 2011(3pm slt)

March 31st. Mr Costa Rica Sims 2012 (noon slt)

Contestants wishing to enter the Mr. Costa Rica Sims Pageant must be residents of Costa Rica Sims. The pageant will be held on March 31st, 2012. Before entering, make sure you will have enough time to devote to the pageant, as rehearsals, fittings, and other activities will require your presence leading up to the event.

The official application for Mr. Costa Rica Sims 2012 will be made available by February 1st, 2012. It will be released in a notice in the Costa Rica Sims group. Applications will be accepted until February 10, 2012 at 11:59pm SLT. Any applications received after the deadline will be discarded.

Reminder, you cannot enter the pageant if...

1. You have previously competed as a finalist in the Mr. Costa Rica Sims Pageant

2. You have previously competed as a finalist in the Mr. Virtual World Pageant

3. You are a current member of the Costa Rica Sims Executive Team

4. You are not a current resident of Costa Rica Sims

Please direct questions via notecard or email reign@costaricasims to Reign Congrejo – Costa Rica Sims Pageants Director.

Hi everyone, Costa Rica Sims Productions will be showcasing this coming weekend Egoisme by Ramses Meredith. I went to have a chat with him leading up to the fashion show.

Ramses Meredith arrived inworld 4 years ago, in fact his rezz day is the 26th January, so Ramses happy rezz day from all of us at Costa Rica Sims. His real self hails from Milan Italy, one of the main fashion centres in the real world.

Ramses, thank you for taking time out to chat to us.  What brought you SL?

Mmm well this is funny, I was looking for another virtual game like World of Warcraft, hehe if I think back to when I arrived in SL it was a little traumatic for me at first since the gui interface is not friendly like WoW.

I think it was the same for most of us.

Haha defnitely! But it was a disaster because the use of the keys is very different and so on but I learnt fast. What was most strange for me was the concept of being able to move from sim to sim and needing know about places and being able to find them.

Would you tell us a little about yourself and your time in SL so far?

Well what I can say is I am eclectic, I like to experiment with everything and to learn, I am thirsty for knowledge.  I love to design and play business. In fact in RL I am designer and business man, we can say I have a number of different jobs since I like to push my limits and to manage many things at the same time.  In SL, well I started playing but then I couldn’t find clothes and tattoos to suit my taste, so it was from there that I started with the production of tattoo’s first.  That pushed me into the SL business world, then a year ago I started Egoisme Ltd in RL to work in SL and started to work on clothes, skins and accessories.  As many people know, I am very selfish when it comes to design, everything has to fit me first, if I don’t like what I have designed, I don't feel the need to sell it.  My RL job helps me a lot in SL because I have a base to work from; what’s more I have been using Photoshop since I was 15.

How did you come to decide on Egoisme as your brand name?

As I mentioned previously, because I am used to designing everything first for my "needs" I am ... we can say selfish? So in French the word for that is egoisme, and since for me Paris is still one of moda's capitals, I decided to use this French word for my company name.

What are your inspirations for your designs?

Everything! It can be music, or maybe a nice landscape, everything can stimulate my imagination. I want to emphasise that I don't copy from RL outfits because I am genetically unable to copy, I need to have my soul in what I do so I create by using my imagination and what I am feeling at that moment, as an example, now I am very into fur because I damn love to play with fur textures.

What do you find are the biggest challenges you face as a designer in SL?

To work with prims and the fact that Linden Labs have an algorithm that reduce texture resolutions, you know SL have a cluster of servers called "asset" servers, so to save space every texture is resized till you upload a 2048x 2048. So u need to find new techniques to increase detail for low resolutions

So then what’s your take on Mesh vs Sculpties for the SL Fashion World?

I definitely prefer mesh, but I am waiting for Second Life to upgrade the new system that allows avatars to wear mesh clothes, so I am not going to waste of time with rigging that would allow designs to fit every body size.  For now I will wait to make mesh clothes.

What do you think is the best thing you have done?

This is a new skin I am working on by the way.  But the best thing I have even done is adopt a Kenyan boy. We take part in the ‘feed a smile’project and as company we have adopted a boy.  With 100 lindens you can give a child a meal, so we have donated 10k for this boy.  Next month I hope to adopt another one, so that will be 2.

This is what for me is the best thing I have done for now. I am lucky to have many customers who love my work and this is my way of saying thank you to them. As it is Egoisme that has adopted the boy, it that means every customer has made a contribution. I could give the money from my own wallet, but every customer has built this and I love my customers, they are a great family and they help a lot.

How did you go about deciding what to show on the weekend?

Well following the feeling I have now I would describe it as exotic and furrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr,  hehe.

Oohhhhhh, sounds intriguing.

Hehe, yes!  It’s like when you cook, the fashion is a mix of spices and main ingredients. Like with everything, you need the main idea first and then each shape, each fabric texture is a mix of "spices".

I then asked Ramses if I may take a snap shot of him….

RM: No, you can of course - fixes fast his hair

RM: *winks*

LM: Lol, you look stunning darling, nothing wrong with your hair

RM: Lol, I know! I urged Maddox Dupont to make hair like this. You have to know when I feel an idea, I have to encourage whoever it applies to, to create something for it.

LM: and they don't mind you telling them this?

RM: No they love being involved, I mean I don't order - lies - I "suggest" the best way  - omits  "the best way to survive"

I for one look forward to the fashion show on the weekend! Don't forget to read the press release. See you all there.

Lacy Muircastle

COSTA RICA SIMS PRODUCTIONS – FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
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A stunning aray of high fashion and music will come alive         

 Saturday, January 28th, 2012
as Costa Rica Sims Productions presents:

EGOISME

Egoisme is a fashion brand, created for uncommon lifestyles.

The main goals of Egoisme are to make people different, unique.

What we want is to be the point of reference for who loves the beauty and style.

 THE MODELS
 Angel (angelik.lavecchia)
 AnnaG Pfeffer
 Bjorn Delphin
 Laetitia Vella
 Luiza Riddler
 Luna (hadaluna.daines)
Maddox Kaestner
 World Undercroft

WHEN
Saturday, January 28th @ Noon SLT

WHERE
Casa Moda Fashion Venue

MUSIC PROVIDED BY:

DJ Marley D
                                     
HOSTED BY
Brendan Macarthur

SET DESIGN
Ewan Crumb

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Please stick around after the show for our monthly
"Influentials Party"  at The Influentials Lounge,
 as Costa Rica Sims pays tribute to the talented Zachary Zufreur.
 Saturday, Jan 28th @ 1:00pm SLT
The theme is ‘Domino’s’ – so wear something black and white.
      
===========================================

Costa Rica Sims Productions was established in August 2009, and has since produced a variety of high-quality fashion shows and events from the best Second Life®

CONTACT: Brendan Macarthur, Director of Costa Rica Sims Productions
EMAIL: This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it
WEBSITE: http://www.costaricasims.com/

© COSTA RICA SIMS PRODUCTIONS PRESS RELEASE JANUARY 2012

Greetings Fun-loving Residents,

To start 2012 off in grand fashion, Costa Rica Sims Estate has presented many awesome events within and for our community, and we are prepared to continue that tradition.

We continue to host elegant and romantic balls with fantastic live performers, as well as groovy events with the best DJs spinning tunes from the past decades into the current. Our fabulous fashion shows will continue to showcase the best designers in Second Life twice every month.

Our fashion-fueled party –“Model's Night Out" - will give the fashionistas the opportunity to party with those that love fashion, while our monthly "Influential’s" party will keep paying tribute to those residents that have contributed to the world of Second Life Fashion.

We have added poetry readings for residents looking for a more relaxed atmosphere and workshops for couples looking to find the perfect balance in their Second Life relationships. For those with a good appetite, we have created an event where our residents will share native recipes with the community for all to enjoy. And finally at the end of the month, we will strap on our backpacks and explore the grid in hopes to discover many of the amazing wonders within the virtual world of Second Life.
 

• When: Every First Thursday of the Month.
• Description: Sexy Latin Beats Performed Live.
• Time: 3:00pm - 4:00pm SLT.
• Performer: Kaleb Avedon.
• Location: Botanical Gardens.

• When: Every first Friday of the Month.
• Description: Party with some of the top models in Second Life.
• Time: 12:00pm-2:00pm SLT.
• Time: 4:00pm - 6:00pm SLT.
• Performer: DJ Thorn Andel.
• Location: Influentials Lounge.

• When: Every first Saturday of the month.
• Description: Put on your sexy beach wear and come meet N' greet the new members of our community.
• Time: 12:00pm - 2:00pm SLT.
• Performer: DJ Rylan Sirnah.
• Location: La Cantina.

• When: Every First Sunday Of The Month.
• Description: Join Mimi Juneau for tea and fashion followed up with live musicians.
• Time: 10:00am SLT.
• Performer: (rotation - Jonas Lunasea, Kaleb Avedon)
• Location: Botanical Gardens.

• When: Every Second Wednesday Of The Month.
• Description: Discover how to have a lasting and healthy Second Life Relationship.
• Time: 12:00pm SLT.
• Performer: Dixie Dabney.
• Location: Connections at Costa Rica Sims.

• When: Every Second Thursday Of The Month.
• Description: Learn how to prepare recipes from all over the world provided by our community members.
• Time: 1:00pm SLT.
• Performer: Costa Rica Sims Residents.
• Location: Location: TBD.

• When: Every Second Friday of the Month.
• Description: Get seduced by the sexy, smooth sounds of Jazz
• Time : 5:00pm- 6:30pm SLT.
• Performer: Shasta SoulStar.
• Location: Costa Rica Sims Jazz Lounge.

• When: Every Second Saturday of the Month.
• Description:Come see the all must have trends in Second Life fashion.
• Time: Varies.
• Performer: Costa Rica Sims Productions Team.
• Location: Casa Moda Fashion Venue.
• Slurl: Varies.

• When: Every second Sunday of the month.
• Description: Get your afros, bell bottoms, leg warmers and shoulder pads ready as we travel back in time for the best tunes from the 60’s, 70's, 80's and 90’s.
• Time: 2:00pm-4:00pm SLT.
• Performer: DJ Rylan Sirnah.
• Location: Groovy Lounge.
 

• When: Every third Friday of the month.
• Description: Get your afros, bell bottoms, leg warmers and shoulder pads ready as we travel back in time for the best tunes from the 60’s, 70's, 80's and 90’s.
• Time: 5:00pm - 7:00pm SLT.
• Performer: Dj Rylan Sirnah.
• Location: Groovy Lounge.

• When: Every Third Saturday of the Month.
• Description: Some of the best singers live at the Opera House.
• Time: 12:00pm - 1:30pm SLT.
• Performer: Phil Setner.
• Location:  Opera House.

• When: Every Third Sunday of the Month.
• Description: Sexy Latin Beats Performed Live.
• Time: 3:00pm - 4:00pm SLT.
• Performer: Kaleb Avedon.
• Location: Botanical Gardens.
 

• When:  Every Last Thursday Of The Month.
• Description:  An Hour Of Poetry Reading.
• Time: 1:00pm - 2:00pm SLT.
• Performer: Karima Hoisan.
• Location: Outside Our Welcome Center
 

• When:  Friday, January 27, 2012
• Description: Join our own DJ Thorn Andel and connect with others members of our community.
• Time: 1:00pm - 2:00pm SLT.
• Performer: DJ Thorn Andel.
• Location: Connections Venue.
 

• When: Every Last  Saturday of the Month.
• Description: Come see the all must have trends in Second Life fashion.
• Time: Varies.
• Performer: Costa Rica Sims Productions Team
• Location: Casa Moda Fashion Venue.
• Slurl: Varies.

• When: Every Last Saturday Of The Month.
• Description: Honoring our residents who have contributed to the world of SL Fashion.
• Time: 1:00pm - 3:00pm SLT.    
• Performer: DJ Maya Wetherby.
• Location: Influentials Lounge.

• When: Every Last  Saturday Of The Month.
• Description: Discover how to have a lasting and healthy Second Life Relationship.
• Time: 4:00pm SLT.
• Performer: Dixie Dabney.
• Location: Connections at Costa Rica Sims.

• When: Sunday, January 29, 2012
• Description: Lets strap on our backpacks and explore the grid in hopes to discover many of the amazing wonders within the virtual world of Second Life. Some souvenir money is included in your tour package.
• Time: 12:00pm SLT
• Performer: Marriellaanna Resident.
• Location: Starting Point outside of the "Welcome Center".

We hope that you will join us for the events as each have been created for your enjoyment and participation. If you have any questions or even suggestions for future fun, please feel free to contact any of us. We are here for you!

Much Love,

Lunatico Inventor & MarriellaAnna Resident

Costa Rica Sims Event Directors

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and

Change brings opportunity……

"We are each of us angels with only one wing, and we can fly only by embracing each other."
-lucian de crescenzo

Most of us joined Second Life in order to socialise with others in some form or another and we all eventually find our niche.  Second Life gives us the opportunity to interact with people we would otherwise never get to interact with.  Bearing this in mind, Giancarlo in his inimitable style has found a way for us all to increase our pool of friends in SL.

As of January 16, 2012, Costa Rica Sims and Dream Seeker Estates merged to raise the bar in the standard of excellence amongst Second Life private estates.  Costa Rica Sims, with over 100 sims and known for its vibrant community, beauty and amenities merged with Dream Seeker Estates, a large, growing and professionally supported 700 sims estate with over 1000+ residents.  According to Estate owners, Giancarlo Takacs and Zeebster Colasanti, this merger will bring the best of both estates together. Residents of both estates will have many new opportunities to enjoy lifestyle experiences in this large combined estate.

Dream Seeker Estates brings to the table a large and professionally managed Support and Sales teams, as well as a history of growth, fairness and social responsibility.  Costa Rica Sims will contribute its Community Engagement Team along with its rich and successful history of community development, social media engagement and events management.

As a result of this merger, Costa Rica Sims residents will now benefit from having access to the large and internationally distributed support and sales teams of Dream Seeker Estates.  Dream Seeker Estates residents will benefit from new community services that will be made available by the Costa Rica Sims team in the coming months.

For Costa Rica Sims residents there will be a few visible changes.  The estate will now operate under the name of Costa Rica Sims of Dream Seeker Estates and will be regarded as a "Luxury Brand" of Dream Seeker Estates.  The estate owner avatar has been changed to Lessor DreamSeeker and all support, sales and billing services will now be provided by Dream Seeker Estates.  The tier machine has been registered to the avatar of Zeebster Colasanti and all tier will be collected by the Zeebster Colasanti avatar.  Costa Rica Sims community and regions will stay intact, and Giancarlo and the Costa Rica Sims team will continue to build upon the present attributes of the Costa Rica Sims brand.  Inquiries directly related to sim/parcel support, sales and billing will be forwarded to the Dream Seeker Support and Sales teams.

For Dream Seeker Estates residents there will be no immediately visible changes.  Over the course of the next few months, new community services will emerge and we encourage the residents to watch this blog as well as the Dream Seeker Estates website and group notices for announcements of these new services.

CONTACTS:

Giancarlo Takacs

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Zeebster Colasanti

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Hello everyone and welcome to the first of the Influentials interviews for 2012.

This month sees me chatting to Zachery Zufreur, model, photographer, blogger and stylist and all round nice guy.

Zachary rezzed inworld on the 26th October 2010 and there were no flies on this young man, within a month of being here he had ventured into the realm of photography in SL as he immediately started selling his RL travel photography in SL.

At one of the many fashion events that are held in Second Life, Zachary had the good fortune to run into Lady Charltina of Charltina’s.  She suggested to him that his RL photography would make good backgrounds for SL pictures.  And he was off ...  Photographing anyone and everyone around him before formally establishing SACHI Photo Studio in December 2010.

He has photographed the likes of Miss Virtual World 2011 Winner Serene Faith, BOSL Awards Top Male Model 2011 Winner Ricoracer Flux, BOSL Top Model Linnda Scofield, BOSL Awards Best Photographer 2011 Skip Staheli, top model Louise McWinnie and top photographer Annough Lykin.

But that was then …

Thank you Zachery for taking time out to chat to us

Hehe welcome to my humble and incomplete home haha.

Modelling takes up most of your time these days, do you enjoy it?

I like some aspects of it and the gratification that comes with it.

What would you say you have contributed to the world of SL fashion?

Fresh ideas and stylings.

Zachy has modelled for the likes of:

Maniera Man of Style 2011  - Mister Virtual World 2011 1st runner-up  "GizzA" Vendor Model   - "SoliDea FoliEs"  2011/12 -  "BLISS HOMME"  2011/12   - "SHIKI" 2012 -   "ALEIDA"  2011/12 - Face of "Face Paint" 2011/12

Tell us about Asymetriques / L'Homme.

I used to write for a fashion mag in RL, so when I joined SL modeling/fashion, I'd wanted to have my own publication but the SL scene is flooded with magazines, I wanted mine to be niche, so when I posted stuff on flickr I received IMs asking where I got my items and that made me realise that the men in SL, not just male models, need to be exposed to the available brands in SL.  There are many brands and designers that people are unaware of, so I decided to embark on this project to release L'Homme.  My intention was for L'Homme to be an independent publication because being part of an agency limits its circulation and audience, however, we are still figuring out the marketing portion of it since the pilot issue was just a few weeks ago. What have done is to make L'Homme  part of Asymetriques. Asymetriques is a team of people who produce lookbooks and magazines that focus on designers, models, and quality. We know for a fact that many models like to have print jobs, so we will be casting for a pool of models that we'd use exclusively for our publications, with L'Homme being one of them.  The CEO Leah McCullough and COO Anna Sapphire (Miss Virtual World 2012) of the mag are iconic people in the SL fashion industry and my close friends, so we are all very excited about it.  I am the Fashion director and the art director is Daniele Eberhardt.  One of the services we provide to designers is to make their collections into a book.

http://issuu.com/leahmccullough/docs/solidea_lookbook_asmt01

Tell us how you came to be in Costa Rica?

I was living with my SL family at that time, with Meimei Shiu being the only surviving member.

What does being part of the CRS community mean to you?

Simply put. Fun! I am great friends with the people here .... and it's always fun to party together when time permits.

What do you like best about CRS?

Haha erm, let me show u what I like best, the view :P. I like that effort has been put into doing up.

What are your plans for the future?

I’ll be focusing a lot on Asymetriques as well as L'Homme, to let L'homme be the go to guide for all things men's fashion and of course my SL "career" of modeling. A close friend told me, opportunities only come once and the sense of gratification keeps me going. .

You can have a look at Zachy’s modeling resume @ - http://zacharyzufreur.wordpress.com/ and his Flickr - www.flickr.com/photos/zacharyzufreur/

We invite you to join us on the last Saturday of the month which is January 28th, 2012 at 1.00 PM SLT at The Influentials Lounge, as Costa Rica Sims pays tribute to the talented Zachary Zufreur.  The theme is ‘Domino’s’ – so wear something black and white.

If you want to keep in touch with your friends and all things related to Costa Rica that we have groups on a number of social networks where you can do just that:

Facebook

Plurk

Twitter

Flickr

Thank you for taking time out to read our blog, your continued support is what keeps us striving to make the Costa Rica Sims the best place in Second Life to be.

Lacy Muircastle

Hello All

Costa Rica Sims brings you ‘Connections’.

“This time when we kiss, I feel it in the pit of my stomach; I feel it in my heart. And I realize love isn't about sex. It's about connection.”   - Ellen Hopkins, Impulse

I still hear your voice, when you sleep next to me.

I still feel your touch in my dreams.

Forgive me my weakness, but I don't know why

without you it's hard to survive.

Do these words strike a chord (pun intended) with you?  Are you looking for a relationship that will evoke these sorts of sentiments?

The Costa Rica Sims has the solution….Connections, ‘social’ networking of the most personal kind.  With Connections at Costa Rica Sims you will find the personal connections you are looking for. No matter whether you are looking for romance or just friendship, or whether you are gay or straight.

'Cause everytime we touch, I get this feeling.

And everytime we kiss I swear I could fly.

Can't you feel my heart beat fast, I want this to last.

Need you by my side.

'Cause everytime we touch, I feel the static.

And everytime we kiss, I reach for the sky.

Can't you hear my heart beat so...

I can't let you go.

Want you in my life.

Connections is set in beautiful surroundings, but that is something you have come to expect from The Costa Rica Sims. You will find Connections just opposite the Welcome Center and next to the Opera House.  Ewan Crumb, Lunatico Inventor, Ericaanne Hastings and Sunshine Zhangsun are the team responsible for the concept, design and creation of Connections at Costa Rica Sims. Resident of CRS, Charriol Ansar, was the winner of the contest that was run to choose the name for this new service.

A tranquil park surrounds the vendor cabanas, with each category having its own clearly marked designated area.  It is a perfect spot to get to know your new friends.

Your arms are my castle, your heart is my sky.

They wipe away tears that I cry.

The good and the bad times, we've been through them all.

You make me rise when I fall.

The service is 100% free and so simple. All you need to do is click the vendor in the section that applies to you; Friends meeting Friends - Men Seeking Men - Women Seeking Women - Women seeking Men - Men Seeking Women.  Click on ‘claim’ and you will be given a notecard. Simply fill out the notecard. Once you are done, click on the vendor again; select "Inventory" and "Add Inventory".  Follow the step by step instructions and you will be ‘A’ for away.  It is not a contest and therefore the number of clicks a person’s profile pic receives will not made visible to all and sundry.

'Cause everytime we touch, I get this feeling.

And everytime we kiss I swear I could fly.

Can't you feel my heart beat fast, I want this to last.

Need you by my side.

'Cause everytime we touch, I feel the static.

And everytime we kiss, I reach for the sky.

Can't you hear my heart beat so...

I can't let you go.

Want you in my life.

Connections at Costa Rica Sims will be running ‘Connections Workshops’ every second Wednesday of the month and the last Saturday of the month and making connections with music with Community Connections on the last Friday of the month.

'Cause everytime we touch, I get this feeling.

And everytime we kiss I swear I could fly.

Can't you feel my heart beat fast, I want this to last.

Need you by my side.

Connections with Costa Rica Sims is available to anyone who wants to avail themselves of the service, it is not limited to residents of the CRS only.

It is time to find YOUR special Connection with Costa Rica Sims….

http://slurl.com/secondlife/Costa%20Rica/186/185/22

“A dream you dream alone is only a dream. A dream you dream together is reality.”  - John Lennon

Live, Laugh and Love with the Costa Rica Sims

Lacy Muircastle

Lyrics from Cascada – Everytime we touch

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COSTA RICA SIMS PRODUCTIONS – FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
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A blend of high fashion and music will come alive Saturday, January 14th, 2012
as Costa Rica Sims Productions presents:

VERO MODERO

A collection of new items of haute couture, several brand new gowns and suits from the creative mind of Bouquet Babii, renowned owner and designer of Vero Modero.

Vero Modero offers fashion forward clothing with an urban edge as well as shapes and skins.

Makeup for this show is being provided by Eve Express, owner and creator for Face Paint.


THE MODELS

Baila Palmira
Dixiesweet28 Twine
Hikaru Enimo
Laurelrose Anthony
Nemi McCoy
Payton Heron
Rex Requiem
Tadeu Gartner
Zaara123 Resident twine

WHEN
Saturday, January 14th @ 1pm SLT

WHERE
Casa Moda Fashion Venue

Music: AJ Michael

Show Design by: Ewan Crumb

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Costa Rica Sims Productions was established in August 2009, and has since produced a variety of high-quality fashion shows and events from the best Second Life®

CONTACT: Brendan Macarthur, Director of Costa Rica Sims Productions
EMAIL: This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it
WEBSITE: http://www.costaricasims.com/

© COSTA RICA SIMS PRODUCTIONS PRESS RELEASE JANUARY 2012

Hola dear friends.  The Costa Rica Sims certainly brings out the best from its residents, no more so than from Tre and Rainne Lionheart.

These two lovebirds are the only couple that own 2 homesteads next to each other in CRS which means by SQM they are the biggest land holders within our estate but that is not what makes their home special, it is what they have done with it that is simply put, spectacular.

I was privileged to be given the opportunity to poke around their home at leisure and have a chat to these two exceptionally nice people. I took so many pictures, but I can’t possibly put them all here and those that I have included do not do this home and its magnificent surrounds justice.

Thank you both for allowing us into your home.

Tell us what brought you to SL?

TRE: Boredom and curiosity…actually someone told me about Second Life and was saying I should check it out. It was beginning of 2010 when I started and being cold and dreary out I was looking for something to pass the time. After a few days of wandering around on here, I was hooked.

RAINNE: I actually saw it on the late night news. They were talking about the concept of being anything you wanted to be in your "Second Life", I wrote it down on a piece of paper and forgot about it.... I came across it again months later and decided to check it out... that was in October 2009... I fell in love with it and have stayed.

And how have you spent your time in SL?

TRE: My time has been mostly spent exploring new parcels, learning to build and shopping.  I have made new friends here and brought some friends in to SL to enjoy the experience. Since meeting Rainne, most of my time is now spent with her.  As far as how we met?  I’ll let her fill you in on how you picked me up at a club and chased me down : D.

RAINNE: Ha…I apparently made his night by talking to him in a club called Ambrosia...actually I am a profile perver and I saw his and thought aww he's from the south too... I minimized his profile and forgot about him for about an hour then as I was about to log off I pulled up his profile and thought I might as well say hello...and the rest is history...he fell in love immediately...  followed me around... Im]M'd all the time... you know ... stalkerish... I finally just gave in and said I might as well be with him since he won’t leave me alone anyway... really the first part is true... I did only IM him because he was from the south but he was so nice and sweet we just started doing more and more things together.

TRE:  Stalkerish?  Sure you don’t have that turned around? Lol…okay…however you see it.

How did you come to find the Costa Rica Sims?

TRE: I believe I found CRS while searching for a unique place to have a home. The idea of connected sims to sail and the amenities was very appealing. My first parcel in CR was a homestead but after spending some time there I left but always missed it. When Rainne and I were looking for a new place to build together, I suggested CR and began searching. I just so happened to find the first parcel by luck one day while searching….it was for sale by the owner, another resident Mikey Batriani. I showed Rainne the place and we both loved it. When the adjoining sim to the south became available, I talked her into combining it with this first.

What makes CRS different to other estates in your opinion?

TRE: In my opinion, the total package, the concept, design and landscaping are the best in SL. And the management/ownership is excellent.

RAINNE: I love the individuality of each sim but that it all flows together... and of course the management/owners have always been ready to help with anything we have asked of them.

What do you like best about CRS?

TRE: The atmosphere of it all. And the common areas to explore are must see.

RAINNE: I love the peacefulness of the place... and that they allowed us the freedom to create our own personal haven.

Tell me a bit about the parcels you have here?

TRE: The first parcel is named Isla Tucan….we purchased it first with the custom built home on it. It was landscaped by the previous owner Mikey Batriani though we have changed some things to make it ours including a seawall out front, landscaping and a bridge. The seawall was constructed with the help of Nufor Loorden. When we acquired the adjoining sim, Isla Tiburon, we wanted to make it a multi-themed resort area for our use. It was basically a bare site and we installed the bridge to connect the sims and started from scratch.  We wanted a marina, places to party with friends, and good views.

RAINNE: and intimate places … with lots of sexy pose balls. <--------For the record my handsome husband made me say that...  Tre actually had the idea for the marina and that was kind of our first area we concentrated on... I admit when he first told me he wanted to add that whole flat parcel to ours I thought he was crazy... we had never really had just a blank sim to start with and I never dreamed it would turn out as well as it did .

Who is the builder of your house?

TRE: The home is custom built and was constructed by Frederick Lancaster. It’s one of a kind which is one reason it was so appealing to us.

With regard to the interior of your home – have you gone with a theme, describe what you have done and where your furniture etc. came from and why you chose those pieces specifically?

RAINNE: We were lucky enough to have our house come furnished so we were free to concentrate on our second sim initially... we have since replaced and added numerous things in the house with pieces of our own.  Most of the interior came from a fabulous store called Patron... ( I suggest everyone go check it out) and a few pieces like our bed ( and yes it has LOTS of poses) came from a store called Lovers PlayGround.

My favorite thing so far is a display piece called “Dresses” which Tre let me put in our bedroom even though it is a bit girly, but overall our home is what I would call comfortable chic.

Once again thank you both for welcoming us and sharing your home with us, it really is a wonderful place to be able to call home!

There you have it folks that concludes this month’s @ Home with ….  Until next time; live, laugh and love with The Costa Rica Sims.

Lacy Muircastle

Hi there everyone.  Sometimes I have wondered about this writing gig in Second Life, especially when I have multiple deadlines all looming at once, then an interview such as the one that follows comes along and I remember why I do it!!  Second Life at its very best giving someone the opportunity to be who they trully want to be.

If ever the quote “if music be the food of love, play on” from William Shakespeare rings true, it is when listening to this talented singer, with a voice and an energy that will undoubtedly make you feel the love…  Well I mean how it could not, he is Puerto Rican and the Latino lover in him is very obvious.

I met up with Kaleb and his girlfriend at their home for a chat, and this awesome singer gave me my very own private show!!!  To say I was blown away by his singing and his energy and passion for singing would be an understatement and so without any further ado, let me introduce to you Kaleb Avedon.

Kaleb what brought you to SL?

LOVE LOL... I was trying to salvage a 4 year relationship, but it didn't work out, but I think I got a lot more out of it than a break up. *smiles*  I got to know myself more and find things within myself that I never knew existed, good things.  Things that have helped me grow as an individual and as a person.

What have you been doing in the time you have been here?

I have been on SL for 3 years now, and I was just in here to meet people and be Kaleb.  I always fantasized of singing in RL so when I saw and heard my first live performer in here I went crazy and wanted to do it too.  But it wasn't till this last summer that I finally found the courage to do it.  I have been singing in SL for 6 months now and I love it!  It feels like I have accomplished something I have always wanted to do and I was always meant to do.  In a very weird but good way I feel complete.”

Kaleb is now resident on our stunning estate. What are your impressions of the Costa Rica Sims and our community?

“Costa Rica Sims have always had a very special place in my heart.  I have been in an SL relationship now for two years and Costa Rica was the place where we had our first Valentine's Day, which was shortly after meeting her.  By then Costa Rica had the resort and we stayed there a week. It was the most amazing Valentine's Day either of us had had in RL or SL.  So this place holds one of my most precious memories. I have never seen anything like Costa Rica in SL.  Its waters, its flora, its settings are by far the best I have seen.  There is so much attention to detail in everything created here, which only shows that this place has been made with a lot of love and dedication.

Where do you perform in SL?

I perform at this great and friendly club called The Kicking Club every Friday night at 8 pm SLT. I also play at the one and only Frank's Elite Jazz Club on Saturday's at 8pm SLT. I have been also recently contracted by The Greek Gold Lesbian Resort to play every last Sunday of each month from 2pm-4pm. These places are very special to me because they believed in me.  They were the ones to give me my first shot and they always treat me like family when I go there and now Giancarlo has given me the opportunity to perform here regularly too.

What is your musical background?

Well, I have a minor in Music (voice) from the University of Puerto Rico.  And the reason for that is because music has always been a big part of my life.  It's funny because I am not a big concert goer kind of a person.  I hardly hear others sing, but I like singing and I like writing songs.  It has helped me heal in so many instances of my life.  I like doing music, being involved in it, not lay back and listen to it. There are very few that I stop and listen to.

I have always liked singing, ever since I was kid. LOL In the classroom I was the one who lead the songs, then as I got older my parents had me take music classes, first piano, then saxophone and then finally guitar!  I loved the guitar because I could play and sing along and it was not so complicated like the other two.  Then I discovered I could write songs!  I have been writing songs since I was 14 years old.  It is the greatest gift God gave me because it cleanses me so much.

Who are your musical influences?

As a singer/songwriter I respect and love Jewel Kilcher.  No one can deliver a message of truth to humanity like Jewel.  She has the power to shock you with her words and to sooth your soul.  Not to mention the fact that she has an amazingly versatile voice.  She can change the way she is singing to adjust to the mood of the song.  It is penetrating and impressive.

As I singer I have never had anyone touch my soul like the Puerto Rican singer Ednita Nazario. The first time I heard that woman sing in concert I felt her voice literally touched my spirit. She moved me and brought tears to my eyes and I said to myself, "I want to do that!" Well, I am not saying that I do LOL, but I try to put all of me in every song that I sing.  She takes her singing seriously, and I want to do that to. That is the only way to sing because that is how you communicate and touch your audience, and so many people need that today.  They need that connection and that experience of closeness. Like I said, I am not saying I do that like her, but I try.

When I was growing up the voice that got you to places and got you to win in contests were the soprano voices. I am not a soprano.  My voice is low and has a vibrato in it that in those days was unusual until Shakira Melbarak came along and broke every scheme LOL. Then my voice was "appreciated" if you could say that LOL. Not to mention the fact that she is an amazing song writer.  My favourite is her earlier work.  That had heart in it! It was poetry!

You can catch Kaleb Avedon at our monthly Welcome Home Party at La Cantina this Saturday 7th January @ 3pm SLT.  Put on your sexy beachwear and come and meet ‘n greet new members of our community.

The next opportunity to hear the love and passion that resonates from Kaleb will be at the “Latin Romance” event which will be held on the third Saturday afternoon @ 12pm SLT of every month.

Till the next time, live, laugh, love with the Costa Rica Sims!

Lacy Muircastle

Estate Blogger

Hello to one and all.  I hope you have had a good festive season and that you are all raring to go as we set off into 2012!  It is indeed a great privilege for me to introduce to you Dixie Dabney who has just moved to our wonderful community on the Costa Rica Sims.

Dixie Dabney arrived in Second Life just over 5 years ago and she came here with a very specific goal and mission in mind, that being to counsel the residents of Second Life.

Dixie told me that she had been looking for a community within Second Life that she could serve and on meeting Giancarlo she knew she had finally found the community she had been looking for in the form of the Costa Rica Sims.

Dixie offers counseling for internet relationships both for couples and individuals who may require her services.  She has been counseling internet relationships on Second Life since 2006.  She is certified in Gestalt and NLP (neurolinguistic programming) and received her certification in 1991 from the Gestalt Institute of New Orleans/New York.

Dixie herself met her husband on the internet some 11 years ago and they have been married in real life for 10 years.  Dixies says “My work on Second Life, is based on my desire to give back what the universe has given me.”  She continues “my desire is to help people find ways to form meaningful SL relationships that can help them grow in RL as well as SL! Because you know, SL is simply a micro of RL and a very small world, lol.”

Dixie said for me to be sure that I add that she has a wicked and rather warped sense of humor, she reckons that is because she is from New Orleans where apparently they believe in miracles like finding love in SL!

This amazing lady has a wealth of experience gained over her 60 years of being on this earth and consequently there is nothing that surprises or shocks her.  Dixie’s life experience coupled with her studies in this area ensure that she is well equipped as a counselor.

Dixie explained "Gestalt therapy is an existential/experiential form of psychotherapy that emphasizes personal responsibility, and that focuses upon the individual's experience in the present moment, the therapist-client relationship, the environmental and social contexts of a person's life, and the self-regulating adjustments people make as a result of their overall situation."  You can read more about this type of therapy on the following website: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gestalt_therapy

And "NLP  (neurolinguistic programming) utilizes top mind-body technologies to help individuals discover and tap into their most powerful physical, mental and emotional resources.  Old habits and patterns of behaviour can be eliminated and replaced with new and empowering behavior patterns.  In the world of NLP, the focus is not on what the problem is; rather it emphasizes the process or strategies employed in how a person does the problem.  By identifying and changing the filters, the thinking, the strategies, and the mental and emotional programs a person employs, positive change can happen instantly."   You can read more about NLP on the following website:  http://michaelwoodbeck.com/new-to-nlp/what-is-nlp

Dixie as at pains to re-iterate that she is not a therapist, but a counselor.  In her Second Life work, she employs both Gestalt and NLP as a means to help people better understand the powerful influences old patterns of behaviour and thinking have upon how one responds to the present moment.  Her belief is that those of us who seek a relationship, in the virtual world, carry into our experiences ways of being in the world which, unfortunately - as it would in real life, stand in the way of obtaining and maintaining the sorts of relationships we so very much desire.

She will also periodically hold personal growth workshops on the Costa Rica Sims.  These sorts of workshops span many levels...some are centered on dream work; some are centered on keeping a journal; some are centered on expressing feelings via art.  Dixie has presented these sorts of workshops in real life and has found them to be of interest to many different kinds of people - professional and lay people; men; women; fathers; mothers.  She believes that we never lose the potential to grow and to change and to achieve what we desire in our lives.  The first of these workshops is scheduled for Friday, 1/6/2012, which is also the feast of The Epiphany.  Her idea is to do a workshop - either that day or over that week end about the non-religious aspects of 'epiphany' in a person's life.  She found a very simple definition of the word 'epiphany': "a sudden, intuitive perception of or insight into the reality or essential meaning of something, usually initiated by some simple, homely, or commonplace occurrence or experience.”  Dixie explained “In our everyday lives - and our Second Life experiences - we often take the same routes or paths to get from where we are to where we want to be.   Let's imagine that we are in an 'emotional" car or on a horse or flying a plane or sailing a boat.  We wish to alter our usual ways of being or traveling - even perhaps to work today or to the grocery or how we perform our household chores or how we respond to the people we love in our lives.  We all know that, as we travel to work each day or to the grocery, that sometimes we arrive and realize that we truly have no emotional memory of how we arrived from point a to point b.  It is as though we have allowed some non-part of ourselves - the steering wheel - to guide us. Simple ways of being can become routine and sometimes don't always give us the outcome we desire.  Routines seldom allow us to discover different ways of being in the world.  If you wanted to, how would you change your daily routine tomorrow?  What do you imagine this change would offer you?”

Dixie offers couples sessions, individual sessions and - if your Second Life family includes children – she also available to do family sessions.  The first session is free after that she will discuss with you what you think is reasonable to pay, but at no time will a counseling session cost more than L$300, no matter how long the session lasts!!

There are various places at The Retreat that the sessions will be held for example, in the main lounge area in The Retreat or in the lush garden, on the deck looking out across the water or even in the quirky umbrella….

Dixie concludes “It is a great honor to be a part of this community on the Costa Rica Sims and to have been asked to provide my services.”

You can find ‘The Retreat’ @   http://slurl.com/secondlife/La%20Fortuna/118/31/22

Don’t suffer with a broken heart alone, speak to Dixie Dabney and let her help you find your way back to happiness. You can contact her directly inworld.

Take care

xoxo

Lacy Muircastle

Warm greetings everybody.  I trust this posting finds you all well as we all start gearing up for the New Year’s celebrations.

A week or so ago, Costa Rica Sims Productions put on the BEST OF 2011 FASHION SHOW.  For those of you who were unable to attend the event, here is a recap as things unfolded.

The Cost Rica Sims Productions BEST OF 2011 Fashion show was an exclusive premiere showing off Fashions created by over 30 outstanding SL™ designers!

The talented designers picked at least 2 of their best looks of 2011.  Thanks to the support of these incredible SL™ designers we were able to bring to you this amazing fashion showcase!

Roe Woodford, the then Director of Costa Rica Sims Productions hosted the event.

The evening kicked off with the Best Formal Gowns of 2011.

Veronica Krasner stepped out wearing Utopia's Frida in azure. Silvery sequin trim accentuates the liquid satin of the dress as it cascaded down her frame like water. The criss cross halter top adds oompf to her decolletage while the thigh high slit draws attention to her sexy legs.   Utopia is owned by saby Clary, who creates gorgeous formalwear. She is a fabulous Spanish designer of both male and female clothing.

Payton Heron was stunning in Half Black by Mohna Lisa Couture. An illusion cut panel is lined with lacy trim details for a blend of sensuality and grace. The transparent sleeves drape elegantly down her shoulders, flowing with the rich metallic tones of the gown. A lacy overlay gives it a demure finish.  Mohna Lisa Couture is owned by Mohna Lisa who is a character unto himself. This Aussie designer says in his profile that he enjoys the occasional glass of wine and is a down to earth guy.

Sydney Bonde blazed into the room with Azul's Fenix gown. Flames of fabric burst from the shoulder all the way down to the skirt in teal, pink, and black tones. The sweetheart neckline adds romantic allure to the pearlescent onyx gown. Elbow-length gloves are the perfect accessory to this dark and fiery delight.  Mami Jewell is the creator for Azul and has been designing since she rezzed inworld in 2007. Her award-winning work has been seen on many contestants in the Miss Virtual World pageant amongst others.

Nemi McCoy wore another Azul favourite called Dailey. Created for Miss Mundo Virtual 2011 contestant Lolita Dailey, this dress personifies class and elegance. Hand sewn lace is delicately layered over a fleshtone bodice. The hourglass shape pools out into a flowy train that glides gently across the floor as she walks.

Rhonda Pennell set hearts on fire in the Silver Flowers dress by Orage Creations. Invoking the demure sophistication of old Hollywood, this wine-coloured beauty has a large bow on the hip. It cascades down into rich taffeta, surrounding a vintage screen-print on the skirt. The strapless bodice allows for you to pair this with a mink stole or dazzling necklace. The designer for Orage Creations is Elettra Gausman, who excels in recreating RL designs for Second Life. She is also a talented skin creator.

Baila Palmira created an entrance in the award-winning Shanghai Noon dress by Mea Culpa. This One in a Million design features ornate fans with waterfalls of fabric draped down the back. Sharp shoulder blades jut out from the elaborate collar as flowers adorn the tops of the sleeves. The mermaid style dress fans out with a dramatic train that makes her look like an Asian queen.  Mea Culpa is owned by Tatanka Kaligawa, who creates inspirational couture and avant garde clothing. He is also this year's winner of the One in a Million Designer Challenge.

Hillie Delicioso wowed us in Adiva's Couture Liquid Lace gown. The plunging neckline is flanked by petals growing out from the high collar. The thigh high slit allows her to look demurely sexy. Lace envelopes her body like a cloud, giving her the appearance of an ethereal goddess.  The creator for aDiva Couture is AnneJoy Paine who designs everything from casual to formal. This German fashionista has a Facebook and Flickr page for her fans to follow.

A vision in delicate white, Veronica Krasner donned the Alondra gown from Evolve. This gorgeous couture dream exhibits clouds of silk in wondrous tiers. The strapless bodice is embellished with a tropical orchid. Long sleeved gloves mimic the same motif for an undeniably romantic feel.  Reign Congrejo is the multi-talented woman behind the brand Evolve. Reign joined Second Life in 2007 and was Miss Costa Rica Sims 2011. Reign also delivers babies for a well-known maternity clinic in Second Life.

Imani Enzo wore the show stopping Steffi gown from VoguE. The cropped top features sexy ruffles for a retro 70s vibe. It's coupled with lacy hot pants, elongating her lean legs. For extra va va voom, an open skirt billows out into funky twists, swaying along with her hips as she walks.  The owner of VoguE Fashion is Zalyn Bailey who has been inworld since 2007. Her creations bring together glamour and sensuality in every way, shape and form. Today, the label now has close to 10,000 members both in-world and Sub!

Wearing the jaw-dropping Sexy Rhi by Orage Creations was Nemi McCoy. Inspired by the Stella McCartney dress worn by Rhianna in real life, this is a sinfully seductive number.   The asymmetrical, floor-length gown has a revealing side that leaves the imagination wanting more. The lace covers in all the right places providing just enough mystique to pique an admirer's interest. WOW!

Next we welcomed Latrelly Flux in Rhawnie by VoguE. She embodies the quintessential snow queen in lacy textures covering her in a layer of loveliness. The frosted skirt is a flurry of snow crystals with a peekaboo slit. A frilly collar makes her look regal enough to command any audience.

Baila Palmira entertained us with Vero Modero's Eda gown. Part of their new circus couture collection, she is the ringmaster who captures everyone's attention in a striped skirt with black feathers.  A thin layer of netting drapes down for a rustic tent appearance with a sequined bodice. Add in a coquettish hat with matching scarf and gloves for spectacular ensemble.  Vero Modero is the collective brainchild of Bouquet Babii, Azull Ash, and Cuba Avedon. This fierce team works together to bring designs ranging from couture glamour to funky fashion.

MALE FORMAL

Today's tuxedo isn't the stuffy black-and-white penguin dress that men often conjure up in their minds. We welcomed our male models to the runway as they brought us THE BEST MALE FORMAL WEAR OF 2011

Ramsa Luv was a delicious dish in Utopia's Etienne suit. He looks cool in the open collar shirt with a sleek vest. Well-tailored pants work perfectly with his jacket which sports satin underlining. He completes his attire with a fashionable boutonniere.

Giving us a taste of old world flair was Pheonix Reyer in the Elysium Tuxedo by sf Designs. His tail coat makes him look dapper, reminiscent of Victorian gentlemen. The fit stands out even more thanks to the crimson vest shining underneath. He polishes off the look with a fancy cravat around his neck.  Swaffette Firefly is the spunky creative mind behind SF Designs. This force of fashion from the UK has been designing inworld since 2004. Male or female clothing, she excels in both.

More holiday cheer arrived in the form of Shiki's Roppongi Night worn by Rex Requiem. This classic suit sparkles in emerald with satin black lapels. The bow tie is a fabulous embellishment for the crisp white shirt. Paired with smooth slacks, he could give James Bond a run for his money. Shinichi Mathy is the mastermind of Shiki Designs. He offers colourful and versatile options for both men and women. He is a giving person who regularly gives back to charity.

EVENING COCKTAILS

We then took a look at some of the Best designs we grouped in the Cocktails Category.

Sydney Bonde was a wintery vision of beauty in the Hope dress from Shiki. Wisps of feathery flowers bedazzle this dress from top to bottom. She looks like a snowflake as flurries add a touch of romance to her look. This sculpted delight comes in both short and long versions. The short version is perfect for afternoon Mimosas.

Hillie Delicioso sizzled wearing Fever from Champagne Sparkling Fashion. This saucy creation shows off her long legs in a flirty, fringe skirt. A sparkly bodysuit hugs her curves in all the right ways for a sassy touch. She'll draw you in closer with the sharp hooks attached to her chest and waist. Champagne Sparkling Fashions is owned by Enzo Champagne. His signature is making glittering creations that shine on and off the runway.

Payton Heron returned to the runway in the Adra White Strapless dress by Nardcotix. She is absolutely chic in this feminine sheath. The Meryl Hat complements it with a high-reaching swoop and fetching red colour. The Nara Bowed Nardcotix Chunky Pumps are the ideal heels for her outfit with a sweet bow adornment on the toes.  Nardya Rousselot is the designer for Nardcotix. Her brand has recently branched out beyond shoes and into the world of couture dresses and hats. Her shoes are known for their striking design and hot pink soles.

Baila Palmira blossomed in the colourful delight called Mattina from Baiastice. The soft umber tones go from a flush pink to a spring green. The sculpted halter top is tied around the neck with a cute ribbon. It drapes loosely down the back, fitting perfectly over the tiered skirt. With a built-in AO option, she never has to worry about not looking her best.  Baiastice is owned by Sissy Pessoa who has been designing inworld since 2007. Her creations cover the gamut from skins to clothes, hair, shoes, makeup and more!

Prowling onto the scene next was Latrelly Flux who wore Chantkare's Polly dress. The ruffled neckline added glamorous flair as puffy sleeves give it a unique shape. The hourglass shape of this dress flatters her natural curves. Cheetah print draws attention without detracting from this ultra-cool style.  Chantkare is owned by the extraordinary Applonia Criss. Her style translates globally and can be seen worn all over the SL blogosphere. She has truly made her mark in SL fashion.

Rhonda Pennell took us on a journey wearing the Kyoto Modern Hanazono dress from Shiki. The floral pattern reflects the lush landscape for which this dress was named. An optional fur collar allows her to glam things up for evenings out. The belt blends in beautifully with dark green clasps pulling it all together

Payton Heron wore the Corset Bustle coat by sf Designs. Paired with the sf Design Velvet Gloves, baroque textures add a regal touch. Bright crimson buttons dot the front in a military style, matching the lapels of the coat. Frilly cuffs highlighted in red give this jacket girly appeal.

Showing off her glitzy side was Baila Palmira in the Monochrome Formal Wear Velvet suit by aDiva Couture. This outfit is as multifaceted as a diamond with its glittery lace top. The high-waisted capris showcase a glimmering stripe on the sides for pizzazz. A cropped jacket with quilted underlining gives it an urban edge for one seriously hot outfit when just a cocktail dress will not do.

Kalyabreeaa Capelo shone in Chantkare's Creme Brulee dress. The sweet and flirty skirt poofs out in a deliciously creamy texture. The halter top sparkles with dazzling dots for a hint of glitzy glamour. The ruched waistline adds feminine appeal to this coquettish dream. She's totally ready for a holiday cocktail.

CASUAL & CITY CHIC

Now we all know that some of the Best Parties in SL... weren’t really planned parties at all. You know the nights when you had your BEST fun just hitting the clubs all over the grid? The nights when you wanted to log off but the music was just too good and your dance hud really worked?  Next we to presented the favourites for this year in City Chic and Casual Female Wear!

Veronica Krasner was sexy, classy and sassy in this offering from Xanadu called Fur Caprice. The solid v-neck top features wide, loose sleeves and a cinched waist. A leopard print scarf waves lightly in an unseen breeze. The hat, purse and gloves exhibit animalistic touches for extra sex appeal. Keeping it all in style is a set of flouncy capris that look great when paired with boots.  Xanadu Daimano is the fabulous woman who designs for Xanadu Fashions. Xanadu opened her store in January 2011 and hit the ground running, Her looks are nothing short of New York Chic. Xanadu has embraced the new mesh clothing trend and made it into her own.

Wearing another Xanadu creation called Bling Autumn was Nemi McCoy. She is the epitome of sophistication in an oversized top with a high collar. The dark paisley pattern plays nicely with the folds of the sculpted masterpiece. The wide belt is a wonderful accessory to go with this stunner. Leather pants let everyone know she means business.

Imani Enzo wowed us in the Red Ruffles Mini Coat and White Lace Hot Pants from Bliss Couture. She is a beautiful rose with petals of satin in a high collar of her jacket. The cropped cut and frilly cuffs are a fabulous touch for this velvety wonder. The high waisted lacy hot pants coyly peek out from underneath, making this a sensually dangerous combination. Bliss designer, Amutey Decuir tells us that she is simply one of the designers here in Second Life that practices her passion in this amazing virtual world. She runs the business with much help rendered from the wonderful people on her team. Which allows her to spend most of her time doing what she loves - designing and creating.

Payton Heron wore an edgy combination from Baiastice called Grifha. The camel-colored dress doubles as a top when worn over the sleek black leggings. Ridged shoulder pads add toughness to the soft lines of this asymmetrical wonder. The perky beret and pencil thin belt accentuate the militaristic feel of this outfit. Worn with the Nicki Ankle Boots, she marches to her own beat.

Wearing a daring outfit from Evolve called Tribe was our very own Rhonda Pennell. As the name implies, this is a fierce jumper with a deep plunging front that exposes her breast. The intricate beading reflects the African savannah in its design. Loose fitting sleeves and a belt make this one searing hot design.

Hillie Delicioso flaunted what she's got in Day Out Dark from Yasum. The high-waisted pants are embellished with studs down the front. A thin belt hugs her hips tightly. Her fur-trimmed jacket is great on its own but works best when combined with this chic set.  Azlyn Vaher is the eclectic owner of Yasum Designs. This German powerhouse is very generous to her customers and designs for both men and women.

Continuing the glamour parade we had Latrelly Flux wearing Angels in brown by Egoisme. This urban casual classic has extremely high-waisted pants with a sleek feminine line. The long-sleeved shirt exhibits a flattering high collar that extends into a deep v-neck. When worn with tall boots, this look stops traffic on every corner.  Egoisme is a collective of creative souls spearheaded by Ramses Meredith. He and his team of designers work hard to make high fashion clothing for both genders.

Imani Enzo sashayed out in the Tate Mini dress and Madison pants from LeeZu. The playful capris have a bleached stripe that spirals down her leg. Cobalt animal print halter top cinches at the waist, allowing fabric to drape gently over her pants. An oversized ribbon dangles from the neck for a girly touch.  LeeZu Baxter is the force behind LeeZu. Her signature designs are a collection of fabulous couture, avant garde and fun casuals. She loves contributing to great causes with her work as well.

From Miamai, Rhonda Pennell wore a collection of offerings. The Chod dress is best described as ballerina couture with its short, wispy skirt and duo toned bodice. Calf-length leggings complete the ensemble. She also wears the dramatic Chod eyeshadows created specifically for this dress. The diamond-crusted hair is an exercise in exquisite decadence.  There isn't anyone who doesn't know Monica Outlander of Miamai. This award-winning designer excels in not only fashion but art as well, which anyone can see when they visit her main store.

Hillie Delicioso embraced ethnic flair with the Westwood coat from LeeZu. The yummy bright colours show off the exotic textures of the coat. The sculpted scarf is a sorbet of sophistication in magenta and orange hues. This bohemian delight works well over a pair of high-waisted pants.

Veronica Kraesner wore the sensuous Ribbonata Kissed by Nardcotix. Another chic entry from this brand, the dress is a beautiful sheath form with a single shoulder strap. The knee-length fits in well with the vintage trend, showing off her curves. She pairs this with the Chloe pumps, lined in red with feminine touches. The Innocence Ribbonata hat is a couture wonder with red beams shooting upward and a long wavy strand circling her eye.

Dangerous femme fetale Imani Enzo captured everyone's attention in CheerNo's Seks 02 pantsuit. This wearable avant garde look is definately not for the fashion shy...Dramatic feathers fan out into an eye-catching collar. It accentuates the plunging neckline which works perfectly for this slinky suit. The flares of her pant cuffs show off more of this avarian motif for a flight of fanciful fashion. Imani' pairs the Cheerno look with the Noir Jewelry ensemble by Finesmith, which features a motif of large gems, clawed prongs and spidery tendrils.  Yula Finesmith has been designing some of the most eclectic fashion jewellery on the grid since 2007. Yula has been nominated by several SL Magazines and won various awards for best jewellery design. Yula provides consistent work for SL models and enjoys giving amazing opportunities to models all over the grid. We thank you Yula :)  CheerNo's founder is the innovative CheerNo Destiny. Voted Best Menswear Store in the Glance Fashion Awards 2011, his store is the go-to place for fine male or female clothing.

Next we welcomed back our male models wearing the designers favourite picks for BEST  OF 2011 MALE CASUAL & CITY CHIC!

Angelik Lavecchia entered wearing Shiki‘s Tokyo Generation which is just the right look you guys will want to wear when you hit the city scene on chilly night.  The outfit is casual yet chic – just the right mix. The jacket is slim and fitted through the waist and had a semi- military look with epaulettes on the shoulders. The plaid pants have a bold pattern and are perfect to pair with a blazer or sweater for a great look and a fun holiday party look.   Shinichi Mathy brings his offerings to our SL Fashion world from Tokyo, Japan. The inspiration behind the Shiki brand name is "Shiki means "the four seasons" in Japanese. Shinichi aspires to create clothing that reflected the four seasons.

Next we saw Pheonix Reyer looking ultra-cool in the following look.  The down vest from Gabriel has a comfortable yet stylish look for the casual male who loves excellent quality.  The relaxed fit of the sweater gives a realistic loose fit and The Sagger denim jeans leave enough room for dancing if needed. Gabriel Designer and CEO Takuya Jinn has been a resident of Second Life since 2007 and enjoys making high quality clothing for both men and women.

Ramsa Luv was next on the runway wearing the newly released Bliss Coutrue Homme Fur! This look for that man that has it all, the full length fur coat is the perfect statement piece to a fashion forward guys wardrobe.  Paired the tweed pants from Bliss Couture Homme , Ramsa would be sitting in the VIP section of any club he choose to visit.  Amutey DeCuir Owner and Designer of Bliss Couture tells us that launching her new male line was something she has wanted to do because of the huge amount of request she has received over the years. Many men told Amutey they could not find good fur for males in SL. Bliss Couture delivers.

Ewan Crumb joins us on the runway looking cool and confident in a great jacket and jeans from designer Kal Rau. What a truly classic a mix of comfort and style; the black tuxedo jacket works perfect with the jeans and gives the outfit a fresh- funky flair.  The jacket has the traditional tux cut and the satin collar and sheen that make this a look that you can easily wear out to a club.  With slightly worn jeans and a graphic print tee, Ewan is ready to have a great night out!  Kal Rau knows what looks good on a man and designs a line of very easy going and sporty clothing.  His line is always a go to for easy to wear great fitting yet stylish casual clothing.

Angleik was back wearing Gabriel’s Down Jacket and Leather Pants Combo; the asymmetrical closing is a bold touch to this amazing jacket.  The cowl neck fits loosely on shoulders and can be pulled up to make a nice hood.   The black down jacket is fitted yet quilted which makes for an interesting juxtaposition of textures.  The low-slung leather pants are very sexy and fitted. This whole look has such great attitude I know you will certainly be turning heads in this.

Up next we had the looks of Egoisme, Redgrave and Yasum.

Pheonix Reyer in an ensemble from Yasum.  The Trash Hoodie Day Tarn is more of a shirt jacket look with a shorter profile to the jacket.  The jacket buttons up the front and has interesting detailing.  The flair cuffs on the jacket undoubtedly give a sense of laid back club style.  The low slung jeans fit in all the right places but yet are comfortable enough to party the night away.  Yasum Owner and Designer, Azlyn Vaher tells us that she is never inspired by any one thing. She truly feels creativity from her heart and creates as many other great artist do, often beginning with just one colour and building around it with different forms and textures. I can see why Yasum collections are truly pieces of art.

Maddox Kaestner wore the Classic look from Redgrave.  With a cool spin on the great navy blazer and khaki pants!  This is always such an easy look to wear just about anywhere and still be look cool, smart and handsome! With classic primary colours and the addition of a nice red knit polo shirt.  Relax in your Sperry topsiders and you will be the most preppie guy at the club.  Redgrave is one of the most well-known brands in SL with collections of skin, clothing and shoes. Redgrave is also a RL design company with a long-lasting experience in graphic, illustration and photography field as well as in concept work and consultation. This powerhouse team consists of Emilia Redgrave, Dean Ashby and Viola Leigh.

Rex Requiem wore a great look from the wonderful male line at Egoisme.  Look closely too as his skin is also from the Evian at Egoisme and is called Jin.   Super stylish fur coat paired with great leather and suede pants that have the look of chaps.  The texture and details here are just amazing.   Ramses Meredith CEO and Designer of Egoisme tells us that he is inspired by all things around him and this can be many sources. Ramses began making tattoos when he frist started to create. After challenging himself to push his creativity further, one year ago Egoisme ltd. was born and today you can find some of the most eclectic fashions on the grid for male and female, as well as skins and accesories.  Egoisme has a number of great fur pieces and you all have to go check them out after the show.

Angelik was back again this time in another great look from Bliss Couture Homme.  The Dixy Fur Jacket is a modern interpretation of the classic bomber jacket.  The black suede shearling jacket is not your typical cut for a bomber jacket.  It is shorter in length with a slightly fuller cut.  The collar is wide and covers the shoulders with a deep plush feel.

Ewan returned with another great classic look from Redgrave.  Redgrave is known for their great pieces for men to mix and match all with a great cut and classic styling. This time we see the navy jacket paired with darker jeans and a white polo.  A fresh wonderful look that will carry you through so many different occasions. The blazer has a two button closure and sits nicely on the hip line.  The jeans are very relaxed with a more dressy finish and you could wear these jeans easily from day to evening.

Cheerno is known for cutting edge looks.  Minimalism comes to mind when we see the Native Legend for boys look that Pheonix wore.  The sash drapes across the chest and has a flared feather closure on the right shoulder.  The wide brimmed hat also is trimmed with the same material as the sash and dips low over one eye. The stretch legging style pants fit snuggly allowing you to wear boots over them.  A flair for the dramatic is added with the black tulle skirt.  This is not your usual kilt and it makes for a bold fashion statement. Cheerno Destiny first logged into SL three years ago and was intrigued by the ability to create here.  He started out designing clothing but has expanded to hair, skin, and shoes and he keeps working on expanding his line. He laughs and says that now his RL friends even call him Cheerno. For those of you who are bold enough;  Dare to wear Cheerno.

We welcomed Ramsa back to the runway wearing Hen Jacket in Night from Miamai. Miamai's driving force Monica Outlander is a Goth lover who unleashed her wild side last year with the "Black Label".  In 2011 the fashions only got better. Monica states that her only problem is time; there is never enough time for the ideas in her head. The Hen Jacket in Night is definitely edgy with the slim fitted jacket and stand up collar.  The feathers on the shoulders give a dramatic touch to its hard edge. These subtle details make all the difference. Miamai's concoctions are tailored to fit the body like a glove and the results are nothing short of incredible.  Paired with fitted Leather pants; this is indeed chic, edgy and primal provocation.  If you like to make a statement through your attire, this is for you!

MILITARY

Military style has been popular for lots of seasons in succession with 2011 being no exception.

Maddox Kaestner marched down the runway wearing this dashing look from Champagne appropriately titled Noble Blue. The black uniform has a strong accent of gold and royal blue on the tie, cape collar, and boots.  The cummerbund has gold trimmed braiding and a gold watch chain drapes across the front.  This is definitely something you could see Errol Flynn in from the old time movies.

Ewan returned this time in a twist in a storm trooper look from Mohna Lisa  Couture called Laurent Military Black.  The crisp white shirt has an ascot tie with lace trim.  The shirt is tucked into the black leather jacket with a double-breasted frog button closure.   The jacket has slight pockets in the front closed with gold buttons and epaulettes attached with gold buttons on the shoulders.  The jodhpur pants provide the perfect look to step smartly into formation.

Ramsa brought us a look that is reminiscent of Romeo and Juliet in this amazing look from Vero Modero called Circus Malik. The hooded red jacket is tied in front at the neck and will flip up to give you mystery. The double-breasted gold button closure down the front adds interest and flair. For a dramatic touch the shoulders have wide shoulder pads.   The shirt is longer and has an athletic fit and black trim at the seams. This is definitely a fashion forward look and Ramsa looks great in it.

Rex appeared in a very dramatic look from Mea Culpa.  Edgy as ever with a true fashion statement! Mea Culpa's  Dream Control Black certainly will make you look like you are the ruler of all.  The leather jacket has a black on black layered texture.  Gold trim and buttons are used down the front and across the abdomen.  This is a dark and demanding look and the studded trim on the puff shoulders reminds you of that.   Leather and lace are combined with the lace undershirt peeking out of the jacket.  A sash is attached to the shoulder and sweeps along as you walk boldly in to the room.    Mea Culpa is known for high fashion, haute couture avant garde and with the release of his new men’s line in 2011 the trend continues.

LINGERIE

Everybody knows that the right lingerie can change your mood, set the mood or get you in the mood! There are so many cute, flirty, sexy and seductive things here that I am sure it had to be a difficult choice for our designers.

Sydney returned in a lovely corset set from Blacklace.  This beautiful black and teal set is so romantic. The strapless bra cups your breast and trims them in lace.  The whale boning is piped in teal silk ribbon and drops to the teal rose trimmed edging across the bottom of the corset.   The corset has garters that attach to lovely long black silk stockings that whisper as you walk along down the runway.  Sexy and elegant all wrapped up and ready to be opened.

Sydney is joined by Ewan in his hot look from Vitamen. This tiny grape Side Ring Bikini in Sheer Lace bikini bottom is just enough to hide the package. The bikini drops low across your hips and is held in place with ring closures on either side of the hip.   Pieces from Vitamen are always small, bold, and barely there and this is no exception.

Nemi looked seductive and mysterious in Blacklace's Boo.  The Black Velvet Corset with a Bordello skirt is sexy and frisky.  The strapless corset hugs your breast and body and has tiny velvet buttons down the front.  The lacy bordello skirt skims your ass and moves seductively as you sashay across the room.  The skirt meets the garters that lead to sheer black stockings.  The embrace of velvet and the feel of lace all make this one very hot looking corset set.

Maddox showed us another sexy look from Vitamen. This time we see some snug fitting boxers in black silk called Flower Black Lace Boxers.  The boxers sport a golden floral pattern on each hip.  This is a great look either out on the beach or lounging in the bedroom.  Vitamen Hax is the creative force behind the Vitamen brand. Vitamen has been designing inworld since 2007 and is an exclusive designer of male underwear and swimwear.

Latrelly and Rex joined us with more Blacklace and Vitamen hottness! With Latrelly wearing from Blacklace,  Aphrodite White Lace.  The beautiful whit laced trimmed corset is pure as fresh driven snow – or is it?  There is a sweet silk bow at drawing attention to your breast line.  Bows are also found on the bottom of the corset and hold the garters in place.  This time we see sheer white silk stockings and with a lovely white garter tied with a bow on your left leg.  If you are planning a wedding soon you might add this to your trousseau.   Mariska Dufour, designer for Blacklace has been creating inworld for 5 years and designs sublime corsets and lingerie for the art of seduction.

Rex wears Vitamen's White Boxers, these boxers have amazing textures and shading in all the right places. These boxers include an optional tank. Understated pure sexiness.

As we approached the end of the show we asked the audience if they would take a moment to think of the BEST thing to do in SL.   Studies show that what we do in SL more than anything else is.....

GET MARRIED!

We welcomed our lovely Bride and Groom wearing Rebel Hope's favourite choices in wedding attire!

Our lovely bride was none other than the Costa Rica Model of the Year Sydney Bonde.  Rebel Hope has designed this lovely Ginger Wedding Gown and you know this is a perfect gown for your wedding.  The gown is strapless with a deep cut to reveal your cleavage.   The front of the gown is ruched to highlight your figure and the body of the gown hugs you down across your hips.  The gown has lace tulle that lies in soft layers from either side of your hips and across the back of the gown.  The set comes complete with your shoes and veil so you are all set for your upcoming nuptials.

Our groom Maddox looks smashing in this classic formal tie and tails.  This is certainly going to be a formal affair and he is dressed for the occasion. The tux waistcoat has a one button closure and dips to your knees in the back.  The jacket lies over a white vest and a monotone ascot cravat tie.  The wing collared shirt and a dash of white handkerchief complete the handsome look.  Rebel Hope's talents span clothing, fashion, and costumes--some of her favourite work, due to both the clothing design and intricate prim work required to embellish the costumes. A key part of all her endeavours is her desire to help all the women of Second Life feel glamorous and look beautiful. In real life, Rebel is a mother, sister, wife, daughter, lover, and all around keeper of the peace.

Roe thanked the models and staff who contributed to the fashion show. Without each and every one of you, this could not be possible!

Maddox-  Syd

Angelik - Veronica

Hille

Ewan - imani

Pheonix - Latrelly

Nemi

Ramsa - Payton

Rex - Rhonda

Veronica

We hope you have enjoyed the recap of the Costa Rica Sims Productions: BEST OF 2011 FASHON SHOW!

The Costa Rica Sims team and I wish you a happy New Year and thank you for your support during 2011,  watch this space for so much more in 2012!!

Lacy Muircastle

Wow can you believe another year has whizzed by? As 2011 rapidly draws to a close we take this opportunity to revisit the Influentials who graced our pages over the past 11 months.  We won’t be having an Influential this month due to the holidays and the party would fall on New Year’s Eve and we all know what we will be doing then…

March 2011 saw Imani Enzo gave us a sneak peek into her glamorous SLife;  at the time she had recently been crowned Miss Essence of Ebony, she had been a 2011 Miss Virtual World Finalist, Miss Bliss Couture 2011, a My Precious Princess in 2011 and the 2010 Costa Rica Productions Top Model of the Year.

The Influential for April 2011 was Eboni Khan;  Costa Rica Sims April who is an accomplished Second Life creator that began her Second Life in 2004 and who  has become one of SL’s  well known  fashion designers. Her flair, sense of style and generosity has made her a fashion staple in many SL closets….

The wonderful month of May saw us interview Persia Bravin; who is a multi-talented and extremely nice woman and whose SL résumé is simply put impressive. Persia has worn many hats in the media world of SL; Treet.TV /'Pop Vox'- Host/Co Producer, The BOSL Radio- CEO, The BOSL Magazine- Copy Editor, The BOSL Magazine-Senior Writer, Blog- 'Chrome Never Sleeps', Blog- ‘Second Life Art and Entertainment’, Pop Art Lab-RL/SL Press Manager, Caerleon Art Collective-Press Manager,  and EXPLORE IT!-Press Manager.  If this wasn’t enough Persia’s RL is just as impressive as Journalist, art lover, fashion junkie, surf junkie and Raqs Sharqi obsessed….

June 2011 Influential: Charriol Ansar.  The Costa Rica Sims June Influential is a very busy woman that holds an impressive position at GLANCE International Agency.  As COO of this full-service fashion PR agency, shehas her finger on the pulse of fashion in Second Life.

July 2011 Influential: Didier Rascon; as an architect in real life building a house was no big deal, but creating clothes was something else altogether. After falling in love with the fashion side of Second Life, Didier made a concerted effort to make clothes. It wasn’t long before he had enough clothes designed and created to open his own store. In 2010 he started a new brand ‘House of Europe’ and the rest they say is history.  Apart from designing clothes he models them too.

August 2011 Influential: Reign Congrejo; at the time of the interview Reign was the ‘reigning’ Miss Costa Rica Sims and her time as Miss Costa Rica was drawing to a close.  But this is not all there is to this gorgeous lady.  She is also a fashion designer in Second Life and that introduced her into the world of Second Life modelling which she thoroughly enjoys and works very hard at.. Having won Miss CRS she went on to compete in Miss Virtual World 2011 where she placed in the top 12. Her latest project is the Miss Ebony International contest which she started with my business partner, Devine Hunt.

September 2011 Influential: Mimi Juneau; style Guru Mimi Juneau of Mimi’s Choice fame is a really lovely and gracious lady, who hails from Antwerp Belgium.  She arrived in Second Life some 5 years ago and has undoubtedly left her mark on the world of fashion in SL.  She has one of the most renowned reseller stores around, catering for both men and women’s fashions in SL and carrying some of the best known design brands that she has personally chosen to represent.  You can acquire everything from hair to shoes and obviously everything else in between at Mimi’s Choice.  She loves what she does and it shows.

October 2011 Influential: MeiMei Shiu;  is a runway, print media and live fashion model. She has represented Farouche Tres Modeling Agency and Maritima Inc. as well as PurpleMoon Creations and SACHIPhoto Studio. And then there are the contests and pageants she has participated in so far: • Champagne!Sparkling Face of the Month for September and October Runner Up • Miss Avatar World 2011 top 15 candidate • Crown winner of Miss Elegance 2011 • 1st Runner-up and Best Creative for Miss Sophisticated Lady 2011 • 2nd Runner-up and Miss Photogenic for Miss Hollywood 2011 • Prestigious Model February 2011. This lovely lady is most definitely one of SL’s rising stars.

And finally November 2011 Influential: Pompeja Rossini; Many of you will know this talented designer’s skins and shapes, and her brand LaVie. Pom started out in the world of SL fashion by designing clothing, her brand at the time was Pomj and she also made skin make-ups for a skin designer.  She designed her own first skin in mid-2008.  As time went on skins became her main focus, luckily for us and now we can have stunning looking avatars courtesy of Pompeja.

Influentials will be back in January 2012 with an interview with Zachery Zufreur.

The CRS Executive Team thank you for your support of the Costa Rica Sims.  All that is left for me to say is happy holidays to you all, have fun and be safe!!

Lacy Muircastle

Estate Blogger

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COSTA RICA SIMS PRODUCTIONS – FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
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Costa Rica Sims Productions Presents - The BEST of 2011 Fashion Show

Join us as Costa Rica Sims Productions Presents the biggest fashion event of the year! Our amazing models will grace the runway showcasing the "Best of 2011" in our fabulous state of the art venue created exclusively for this event by Mr. Ewan Crumb.

Over thirty (30)  talented designers have selected the best designs of their 2011 collections, including recently released items not yet seen on any runway.  

As we close out the year on a fashion high note, be sure to join us as we continue the celebration at  the Costa Rica Sims Productions “Best of 2011” Fashion Show after-party!

THE DESIGNERS

Adiva, Azul, Baiastice, Blacklace, Bliss Couture, Chantkare, Champagne Sparkling Fashions, Cheerno, Egoisme, Evolve, Finesmith, Gabriel, Kal Rau, KMADD, Leezu, Mea Culpa. Miamai, Mohna Lisa, Nardcotix, Orage Creations, Rebel Hope, Redgrave, SF Designs, Shiki, Utopia, Vero Modero, Vitamen, VoguE, Xanadu, Yasum, Zuri

THE MODELS

Angelik Lavecchia
Baila Palmira
Ewan Crumb
Hillie Delicioso
Imani Enzo
Latrelly Flux
Maddox Kaestner
Nemi McCoy
Payton Heron
Pheonix Reyer
Ramsa Luv
Rex Requiem
Rhonda Pennell
Sydney Bonde
Veronica Krasner

ATTIRE
Dress to Impress

WHEN
Tuesday, December 13th @4pm SLT

with after party featuring DJ Marley Despres

WHERE
Costa Rica Sims Productions Casa Moda Fashion Venue

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Costa Rica Sims Productions was established in August 2009, and has since produced a variety of high-quality fashion shows and events from the best Second Life® designers.

CONTACT: Roe Woodford, Director of Costa Rica Sims Productions
EMAIL: This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it
WEBSITE: http://www.costaricasims.com

© COSTA RICA SIMS PRODUCTIONS PRESS RELEASE DECEMBER 2011
 
 

Hello everyone,

Welcome to my next edition of "At Home With". Today I am spending some wonderful time with a lovely couple who call Costa Rica Sims their Second Life home. And that couple would be Dixie Cybertar and Kari Moonkill.

Hi Dixie & Kari ……and welcome to "At Home With". Thank you both for allowing me to spend some time with you and visit your stunning home here.

BM:>  I noticed that both of you have nearly the same rezz date. Was that a coincidence? And how long have you been on Second Life?

DC:> My love Kari wanted me to join SL after he had joined so that we could interact and role play  that we could not do living so far apart. Kari lives in Sweden and I live in Southern California.  I have been on SL since June 17, 2010.

KM:>My friend Marko Riverstone got me to join SL last year and I felt this could be a good way for me and Dixie to be able to interact together and kind of live together since we live so far from each other in real life.  So I managed to talk Dixie to join SL as well. But at first she was a bit shocked over how some people behaved them against her and others but I managed to get her to try again  and that’s how our SL journey started. I have been on Second life since May 17, 2010

BM :> What kept your interest the most to stay on Second Life?

DC :>Kari of course is my number one answer, and beside that I love to SHOP and decorate the inside of our MANY houses.

KM:>Besides Dixie :-) it’s the possibilities to create and build things, it gives me a chance to use my creative side in many ways and also learn how to do things in SL and try ideas I´ve seen in real life.

BM:> Dixie…I noticed you are follow sports in real life. Do you get involved with any of the sporting events on Second Life?

DC:>Yes,  I was an athletic from Texas and have many RL sporting interest, especially ice hockey and MY Anaheim Ducks.  My involvement in sports in SL is mostly En Garde (fencing).  I have found that En Garde is easy to learn but hard to master.

BM:> And Kari..I see you enjoy riding your motorcycle in Second Life.  Do you ride in real life as well?

KM:>I like motorcycles in real life but I don’t ride in real life. I very interested in how motorcycles are built , have always liked to know how things are made from the drawing boards to a finished product.

BM:> How did the two of you meet? And how long have you been a couple on SL?

DC:>Kari and I met on the Anaheim Ducks message board about three plus years ago and became instant friends chatting about our common interest in Teemu Selanne, who is one of the Anaheim Ducks’ Finnish players.  Kari is Finnish and has followed Teemu’s hockey career since 1992.  We found that after about six months we had development a true love for each other….. other than just hockey.   We have been a couple for 15 months and were married in SL on May 25, 2011, one of the happiest days of my life

KM:> Dixie and my relationship started with our love for ice hockey and that we both are fans of the same team. For some reason she wanted to know more about that person using that strange nickname at the Anaheim Ducks message board.. We started to send messages to each other using the message board and after a while we switched over to Yahoo messenger and then to SL. we have been more or less together for +3 years.

BM:> What are your feelings about Second Life relationships? Do they really amount to anything? And on a personal note, I know it can be difficult when partnering with someone who resides in a different time zone with hours of difference between you…….so how do you deal with that issue ?

DC:>I believe SL relationships move along much too fast and most fail, but our relationship has been strong because of the length of time we have known each other and have put a lot of time and energy into our relationship.  Yes the time difference between Kari and me is always an issue but since I own my on business I can be online during the early evening which helps but Kari is the one who has to give up his sleep for our relationship to work.  I have to have my sleep, I am a DIVA, ha-ha.

KM:>I get a feeling that many people in SL rush into relationships and do not really get to know the persons well enough. Also I think it easier to be tempted in Second Life to check if the grass is greener on the other side of the fence. Dixie and I was already a couple before joining Second Life and we have been partners more or less since day one in Second Life. We use the Second Life as a way to experience things together that we wouldn’t be able to in real life due to the distance. We have learned a lot about each other over the years and we have a strong love that have prevailed some tests.

BM:> How would you compare a real life relationship to one on Second Life?

DC:> Our relationship is great because we both consider this a REAL marriage.  But the real touching and feeling of one other is missing and with this it would bring it all together for us.

KM:> In mine and Dixie´s relationship we make not much difference between Second Life and real life. Others see it as a second life and have partners in Second Life even if they have relationship in real life so that feels for us little bit out place. Since behind the avatars in Second Life….is a real person and real feelings..

BM:>  I have heard or read about several instances of people who met on SL that furthered their relationships by meeting in real life.  And some have actually gone that big step in getting married in real life.  How the both of you ever met in real life or discussed the possibility?

DC:> We met before SL and haven’t met in real life.  We have talked about meeting for over a year and I will be so excited to finally meet Kari and jump into his arms, etc., etc. etc.

KM:>We have not met in real life yet but we have talked a lot about it, guess we are a bit afraid of what if the chemistry we have now don’t feel the same when seeing each other in real life.. But other if it works out well then Dixie and I will be extremely happy.

BM:>  That is so amazing that two people connected prior to SL and then became part of Second Life….to try and get at least some form of “touching or being together”.  I am truly inspired by both your stories concerning that.

Dixie and Kari own an entire sim here in Costa Rica Sims. So, let's move on and talk about your beautiful home here in. What made you decide to go with your architectural styles and landscaping?

DC:> The homes we have set up on our Costa Rica sim are primarily Kari’s findings.  He has a real eye for knowing exactly the “right look”, and I leave all those decisions to him as long as I get to decorate the insides of the houses.

KM:> We have a mixed style of both architecture and landscape. At one side we have more of the pacific and Spanish style of houses and on the other side more,  of old European style with the Heritage house. I guess we tried to get in the influences we have together to blend it with the Costa Rica Sims theme.

BM:>  Kari, I see from your profile that you enjoy terraforming. Did you do the landscaping here for your home?

KM:>Yes I have done most of the landscaping and terraforming.  When we moved here I sent Giancarlo a drawing over how I wanted the general look of the sim surface to be. Then I have adjusted it when I have landscaped and put up the houses and buildings we have here. It’s a learning process to figure out how to do it well and it helps to have an eye and feeling for it.

BM:>  Do you have any favorite home builders and furniture designers?

DC:> Pamela Galli and Ginger Lyne home builders and furniture designer.

KM:> Pamela Galli,  Painter Meriman and Fornicola Butuzova are my favorite home builders and the gang at What Next when it comes to furniture and smaller buildings.

BM:>  And now a few questions about calling Costa Rica Sims your Second Life home. How long have you been part of the Costa Rica Sims family?

DC:> We purchased the Costa Rica sim called Puntarenas on September 8, 2011

KM:>Eh I think I’ll Dixie answer this one ha-ha, maybe 3-4 months?

 BM:>  Wow.....that is amazing to have accomplished so much in such a short time. Your entire sim is awesome! How did you find Costa Rica Sims?

DC:> We have friends who we met fencing who recommended Costa Rica Sims to us.  They thought our needs would be met by living here in Costa Rica Sims ?

KM:> Through friends we have that reside and have resided at Costa Rica Sims

BM:>  Why do you love residing in Costa Rica Sims?

DC:>The Costa Rica Sims are sooooo beautiful and I love the many colorful plants, and also the location of our sim.  It makes me feel like we are actually living in Costa Rica,  I like the feeling of people nearby, all of our other Sims was not connected with other Sims so Costa Rica feels like a real life community.

KM:>It’s a lovely place with many places to visit and also to be close to venues is nice, and it’s easy to find inspiration at the Costa Rica Sims.

BM:>  What is your favorite activity in Costa Rica Sims and is there anything you would like to see added?

DC:>So far we have been so busy developing our Sim that we haven’t done much here at Costa Rica Sims ? 

KM:>To be honest I have been pretty busy with working with this place and with the biker stuff and real life so I have not been very social besides, doing some EnGarde fencing to relax when it comes to SL. But I and Dixie hope to become more visible at the venues at Costa Rica Sims.

BM:>  I’m sure you have certain clothing designers that you adore. Could you share a few of them with us?

DC:> Amacci hair and lashes, Amulet, Apple May Design, Aurora, Blacklace, Dagger Design, Drakke, Earth Dwellings, Gasp, Giovanni, Immerschoen Girl, JCNY, K-Code, Moody, Noya, TGIS and more. You should never ask a woman because the list goes on and on and on forever!!!!

KM:>  I wear mostly the clothes designed by RG and Kalrau, but also from GizzA and some other creators.

BM:>  Well I would like to thank you both for your valued time, It was truly a pleasure to spend this time with you both. I cannot stress enough how enjoyable I was to meet the two of you.  You made me feel so very welcomed into your home here. Do you have any closing comments you would like to share?

DC:>I wish all a great experience in Second Life and hope they find SL as fun and fulfilling as Kari and I do.  Happy life to all.

KM:>I wish everyone a happy Christmas and a wonderful 2012.

And I would like to send out my best wishes to everyone, for a safe, happy and wonderful holiday season. Until next month, I’m Brendan Macarthur, Costa Rica Sims Reporter

“For beautiful eyes, look for the good in others; for beautiful lips, speak only words of kindness; and for poise, walk with the knowledge that you are never alone.”

Audrey Hepburn

Hello everyone, for those of you who want to see the stunning fashion available at Mimi's Choice one more time, or for those of you who were unable to be at the inworld event here is a recap of what was on show

The event was well supported and those that attended enjoyed the stunning fashion along with their coffee and croissants.

The event kicked off with an outfit from Anubis Style designed by Anubis Hartunian. Wearing Robin of Anubis Style, Baila Palmira looked ready for a walk on the Champs Elyssee in Paris. The silk blouse in soft brown and yellow is complimented with trendy yellow gloves and a lovely scarf draped on her head, and the big sunglasses make the look perfect!  Baila also wore the new Kalnin shoes, called Audrey, designed by Maris Kanto. The shoes have an amazing hud, complete with colour.

Next down the red carpet was Pheonix Reyer wearing beige suit combo 6 from Hoorenbeek.  Mimi commented “I'm so glad I have brand new suits from Hoorenbeek available in my shop now.”  Pheonix looked so gorgeous in this classic Hoorenbeek suit in beige, one of the most versatile and complete suits available on the grid.  You can wear it closed or open, with or without vest.  All layers included, with highly detailed textures. The beige suit was complemented with the white suit shirt and a bordeaux red tie. This shirt has 2 collar styles and 9 tie collars.  Completing this outfit were Hoorenbeek shoes, a must have for every man. Gentlemen, you can seduce any woman wearing a suit like this.

Phoenix was followed by Koffie Juniper wearing SF Designs.  swaffette Firefly made this Anita outfit for the Vintage fair.  Mimi sand the team combined it with the amazing new Coquette glitter shoes from N-core.   Mimi believes that N-core is one of the best brands of shoes available in SL and she says “I’m very excited Nuria Augapfel of N-core has shoes available at Mimi's Choice now.”  The SF Design Anita Cocktail Dress - is a classic black flapper style dress - vintage but bang up to date too with its low back and wide band of embroidery across the hips. This cocktail dress features sculpted sleeves in a sheer fabric and a fringe that is designed to jiggle with your Charleston!   Have a look the great vintage hair style that's included - colour change and tied with a band to match your dress.

The gorgeous Meimei Shiu looked so chic in an outfit from Orage Creations, designed by Elettra Gausman. This outfit is called Zebra Chic.  The luxurious short jacket with ruffled sleeves, a wide collar and a matching bra will surely get you noticed wherever you go. Stylish, flared pants with a touch of sexy are the perfect complement and make this trendy look extremely versatile.  Notice also the fingerless gloves and the very chic hat - accessories that make Zebra Chic a fashion statement to be reckoned with!  Meimei wearing the hair attachment and hair base of Laq, perfect for all hats. You can find it in all colours at Mimi's Choice at a special price.

Taylor is a gorgeous outfit of Utopia, designed by saby Clary and worn by Willy Oakleaf.  The outfit has a night and day version in the folder.  During the day you can wear pants and shirt in black or white, combined with the argyle sweater and belt under it. You can take off the coat or wear the coat with an extra fur collar when it's freezing outside.  If you are hitting the night scene, wear pants and coat, but with the white shirt and under jacket in black, which is very stylish.  This is a fabulous outfit that can be worn in many combinations. There is something for every man of style and confidence, no matter what the occasion is!

Next Payton Heron graced the red carpet wearing Monterray, designed by Journey McLaglen of Prism. A fabulous satin shine in mocha and caramel colours makes this outfit perfect for a sunny afternoon sitting outside a Parisian cafe.  Perfect for daily wear are the wide-brimmed hat and the long, hands-free gloves. Take them off at night and enjoy yourself in a trendy nightclub - you will be the look of the night!  Not to be missed, the pants feature gorgeous cuffs in a bubble shape, made from sheer material.  Monterray is the ultimate look combining classic elegance with youthful beauty.  Payton wore the brand new Ultra platform shoes from N-core in a matching brown colour and the perfect hair with hat, model hair 31 of W&Y !

Baila Palmira wore Simone from Jador by ziamela Loon.  In classic black, Simone defines elegance through simplicity. For cooler or slightly rainy days, the poncho and the large, fur-trimmed hood provide ample protection without compromising your flair for fashion. Simone draws attention by framing your face, getting you noticed anywhere you go, and it is easy to accessorise to give you a highly individual look. Truly a timeless design that will always be in style!  The Performance boots in purple from Bax Coen gave this outfit a playful look.

In any man's wardrobe, a stylish blazer is an essential item to have and it is here that Kal Rau delivers, combining his Casual Blazer in shiny black velvet with seven different shirt options to wear underneath. Pheonix Reyer wore the casual shirt for a relaxed and confident look, ready for a metropolitan stroll, an exciting sailing trip, or even a casual business meeting.  A truly "blazing" outfit which can be worn day or night.  A perfect addition to this outfit are the cool shaded sunglasses Furiiuz from Kalnins.

A glamorous feast for the eyes is the Courtisane gown from AlaFolie, created by the beautiful pixivor Allen, modelled by Koffie Juniper.  The sleeveless brocade top with a neck halter sparkles and glitters in silver with every move you make and the multi-layered long skirt with finely patterned lace ruffles makes this dress oh so romantic!  Courtisane is designed for the woman who seeks a unique gown for parties or formal events.

Willy Oakleaf then showed us the Leather and Down Jacket from GABRIEL which definitely is different from the rest.  Designed by Takuya Jinn, this jacket in shiny black sports an unusual, large collar and features small designer clips on the chest and right shoulder.  The jacket opens up at the bottom half for a cool and suave look, slightly flaring out, combined with black leather pants from Gabriel and the fabulous sunglasses add an aura of ultimate confidence and attraction. Gentlemen, do not be surprised if you find women doing a double take on you...

For the final look of the show, we had another very eye-catching design from GABRIEL  : Megu fur jacket and leather one piece White , this time for the ladies and worn by the lovely Meimei Shiu!  Not only leather but also fur is the name of the game - a sexy and breathtaking one-piece mini dress is adorned with an ultra-fashionable hip belt and circular clip, but this outfit would not be complete without a glamorous mid-length fur jacket.  Of course, you cannot miss the stiletto boots with fur trims matching the jacket. Never was taking a bold step - or a dance - more fun than in this superb footwear!!

Gabriel put this outfit in a snake texture out as a gift for the ladies who were present at the Breakfast show.

The Costa Rica Productions models who outdid themselves showing these fabulous creations are:

Baila Palmira

Koffie Juniper

Meimei Shiu

Payton Heron

Pheonix Reyer

Willy Oakleaf

A big thank you to the designers who contributed to Breakfast at Mimi's with their ingenious creativity and tireless work as well as a thank you to Costa Rica Sims Productions Director, Roe Woodford and also a big kiss to Giancarlo Takacs who made this possible.

Amleth McCallen performed at the after party to great acclaim.

See you at the next Breakfast show, January the 8th, same place, and same time!

The Wildlife of Costa Rica

Fortunately,Costa Rica’s wildlife is so extensive that I cannot provide an exhaustive list. However, this will provide you a great introduction to the animals you will find here.

Located in the heart of the Americas, Costa Rica has set aside the largest percentage of its total surface area for protected lands of any other country on earth. Costa Rica is one of the biologically wealthiest nations in the world. The country's varied natural environments include lowland rainforests, coral reefs, active volcanoes, pristine beaches, sultry swamps and exuberant cloud forests and each one of them is home to a wealth of animal life. This treasure trove of tropical flora and fauna is exemplified by the more than 9,000 different kinds of flowering plants, including 1,200 orchids. Approximately 850 species of birds have been identified here, more than are found in the United States and Canada combined. This country is also home for 205 species of mammals, 376 species of reptiles and amphibians and about 10 percent of the world's butterfly species.

Over 80% of the earth’s terrestrial animals live in tropic regions. This explains why small Costa Rica has over 600 species to offer (excluding insects)! Ecologically, this is connected with the rainforest because photosynthesis and production of organic matter is much faster than in temperate regions, there is space for more plant-eating animals (herbivores). Because carnivorous predators have more to eat, a larger amount of species can thrive in the tropics.

THE AMPHIBIANS

The class of Amphibians developed around 400 million years ago, in the Paleozoic Era. They developed from fish and were probably the first animals to walk on land. Water, however, is still essential for them today: as the term “Amphibian” indicates, they spend one part of their lives (mostly the juvenile stage) in water and another on land. Amphibians not only breathe through lungs, but also have thin skins that assist oxygen conversion. All amphibians are carnivores. They seem defenceless at first, but many species developed toxin production in the skin that make them less tasty for predators (the most famous example being the Poison Dart Frog).The 7 species of Costa Rican poison dart frogs are poisonous but not lethal for humans.

Amphibians are usually found in or around moist places (near streams, puddles or in wet forests). The best time are wet nights, particularly during rainy season. Most frog families live in semi-tropical or tropical zones, but the “true frogs” (ranidae) are found in temperate regions and Africa. Frogs are actually spread all over the world except Antarctica.

The eggs of most species can survive with little water and are laid on the forest floor. Poison Dart Frogs actually show the most interesting breeding behaviour: after hatching, the tadpoles are carried by the female (or male) adult up to the canopy in a bromeliad containing water. In these protected pools the tadpoles develop into froglets. The female frog even returns to feed them with unfertilized eggs. No other non-mammal (or bird) shows similar parental care to their offspring!

THE REPTILES

Reptiles arose in the Palaeozoic Era, 300 million years ago. Today there are over 6000 reptile species, sharing the following traits: they are of mostly inconspicuous colours and behaviour; their heart is divided into several chambers to increase blood pressure (and hence muscular activity); most reptiles’ skin is covered with scales to reduce water loss from their body surface.

A fascinating attribute of reptiles is that their sex is largely determined by the temperature at which the eggs develop in the ground.This is because all crocodilians and many turtles and lizards do not have the sex-determining X or Y chromosomes. Hence, temperature conditions decide for their sex. Some turtle eggs, for instance, develop as females when incubated at temperatures above 30° C, and as males when incubated at temperatures between 24-28° C!

Some 23 crocodile species (crocodiles, alligators, caimans) dwell in most sub-tropical and tropical areas of the world. They spend most of their time in water (but breathe through lungs) and are exclusive meat-eaters.

A specific characteristic of sea turtles is that their legs developed into flippers. Four sea turtle species can be found in Costa Rica: the green, hawksbill, olive ridley and leatherback turtles All sea turtles are endangered because of overhunting (which is a diminishing, but still existing problem) and beachside development. Marine turtles are probably most famous for their breeding habits: every 2-4 years the females come ashore the same beaches they have been born on to lay eggs.

Lizards are mostly carnivorous and insectivorous but some larger ones eat plants. Snakes probably evolved from lizards (when their legs retreated due to unemployment) and are exclusively carnivores. Lizards can best be seen on sunny days, when they are active.Of about 600 iguanid species, 38 can be found in Costa Rica.

Snakes are coldblooded animals and their lives are ruled by the outside temperature: they can only be active when their bodies are heated up by sunlight.

There are 162 snake species in Costa Rica, of which 22 are poisonous.Despite their bad reputation the chances of actually seeing a venomous snake are rather slim. They are not only sedentary and nocturnal, but also hard to spot for the untrained eye.

There are two main groups of venomous snakes in Costa Rica: Pit Vipers and Coral Snakes.

THE BIRDS

With around 830 bird species, Costa Rica is a veritable paradise for the birdwatchingtraveller.600 species call Costa Rica their home all year round and 200 migrate from temperate zones. Compared to the 700 bird species occurring in North America, this is an amazing variety! The magnificence of tropical birdlife is astonishing, due to highly coloured bodies (the scarlet macaw being the most famous example). So not only the experienced bird spotter, but also first-timers will be enchanted by the colourful avian wildlife expecting you in this natural habitat.

That most tropic birds are frugivorous is an important ecological feature. It contributes to the evolutionary success of birds and trees: fruit is always easily available and does not have to be caught in exhaustive hunts. Trees on the other hand can spread their seeds farther away – as they are carried and “dropped off” by birds. That way, young plants do not have to compete with parents for important sunlight

There are over 350 parrot species(also known as psittacines) worldwide, of which 16 species occur in Costa Rica.Parrotsare currently considered the most intelligent of birds and their brain-to-body ratio is even comparable to that of primates.

Next to parrots, toucans are probably the kind of bird visitors are most eager to spot during a holiday in Costa Rica. Fortunately, they are also very likely to do so. It is not rare to see the remarkable outline of one (or a group) of these birds flying from one treetop to the next.Toucans are important partners for many plants to spread in tropic forests. The seeds of all fruits that toucans eat pass their digestive track unharmed. That way, these frugivorous birds are responsible for many a tree growing in one place and not the other.

The famous quetzalis definitely the most glamorous bird in Central America. Its name derives from the Aztec word for beautiful or precious. This precisely applies to the emerald male tailfeathers that grow during mating season (March-June/July) – which is the best season to watch these birds. “Quetzal” means sacred or precious in various Central American indigenous languages. The male tail plumes were used as headdresses by chiefs of several tribes, thereby symbolizing their superiority. In Mayan culture it was a crime to kill a quetzal; hence the birds had to be captured in order to retrieve their feathers.

Of the existing 330 hummingbird species, over 50 can be found in Costa Rica. Because these small birds inhabit such a huge area, including montane elevations over 4000m to tropical lowlands, they can be found across the country. Their super lightweight and their particular wings are reasons for their unique ability to hover during flight and even fly backwards! Because flying costs so much energy they spend only about 10 % of their time in the air – the rest of the time they are just sitting, watching and digesting.

The roseate spoonbill can be found in marshes and water habitats. They are easy to recognize for their distinctive pink coloring. Mostly you will find them looking for food, stirring their bills in the shallow water. They eat whatever comes in touch with their bill, mostly fish, crustaceans, frogs and snails. Traveling in Costa Rica, you will often spot cows surrounded by tallish birds, pecking around the cattle. These are called cattle egrets because of their habit to follow grazing cattle and feeding on small vertebrates and insects that are stirred up by the moving cows.

Travelling in Central America, one often encounters a variety of vultures. These are large birds with hooked bills and strangely bald heads of a reddish colour. Their feathers are usually brown or black. The wing span of vultures is between 1-2 metres. The most famous representative of this species is the Andean condor, a huge bird with wing spans of up to 3 metres

THE MAMMALS

Here are some important features that distinguish them: Mammals have advanced brains that benefit them in many ways. Hair on their bodies insulates from the cold. Finally, they do not lay eggs, but bear live young (this way, they can stay mobile during pregnancy instead of having to guard eggs). And the production of milk provides an ever available source of food for the offspring. Of around 4,800 mammal species worldwide, 200 can be found in Costa Rica.

Of the five sloth species occurring in Costa Rica, there are two main families of sloths: two-toed and three-toed sloths. As is well-known of them, they are very slow movers, that spend most of their lives on trees, where they feed on leaves. Because their diet consists of this poor nutrition, their metabolism is so low that it calls for their laziness and low body temperature.

No Costa Rican holiday would be complete without encountering these close human relatives. There are 4 monkey species in Costa Rica: Howler Monkeys, Spider Monkeys, Squirrel (Titi) Monkeys and White-Faced (Capuchin) Monkeys. They are important seed dispersers as they feed on a variety of fruit. Note that all monkey species are considered endangered– the squirrel monkey even highly so.

Howler Monkeys are the largest monkey species, growing up to 1m and weighing around 5 kilograms. Spider Monkeys can use their tails like a fifth hand with which they can support their entire body weight. Spider monkeys rarely leave their tree habitats, where they feed on leaves, nuts and fruit. Squirrel Monkey (esp: titi) is a tiny monkey (ca. 0.6 kg), best found in and around Manuel Antonio National Park Their habitat are Pacific wet forests, where they feed on insects and small plants. White-Faced (Capuchin) Monkey is the species you are most likely to encounter closely in Costa Rica. They occur on the Caribbean slope’s wet forests as well as the Pacific side’s drier forest habitats. Capuchins are approx. 50 cm high and eat everything from flowers, fruit, bird-eggs, insects to the sandwich you brought to the beach. Capuchin monkeys are most common at the National Parks of Manuel Antonio, Corcovado and Santa Rosa. Sadly, Capuchin monkeys seem to have undergone a recent rise in pet trade.

Jaquars  are clearly the kings of the local jungle. But they are very shy and avoid humans, so that your chance of actually spotting one is very slim. The highest concentration of jaguars is in Corcovado and La Amistad National Parks, where they have enough territory to hunt. Jaguars – known in Costa Rica as El Tigre – are more common, although it is unlikely to be spotted. They hunt mostly at night, as they have excellent vision due to their big eyes. Their prey consists of 87 species, including birds, small peccaries and iguanas up to sloths, monkeys and caimans!

Ocelots are mid-sized felines, roughly the size of dogs (1 metre length and 10-15 kg weight). Belonging to the Leopardus gene, they can be found all over South and Central America. Ocelots are night-active and hunt on large territories of 18 square kilometres. Their prey consists of reptiles and amphibians and small mammals. In Costa Rica they can be found in the rainforests of Corcovado, Santa Rosa, Monteverde and in the Los Santos Area – though they are rare to spot. Racoons (average size of 40 cm) can easily be recognised by their distinctive “bandit mask” – the black fur around their eyes. The most common racoon is the Northern Racoon, an animal which is active mostly at night. Racoons are omnivorous and feed on fruit and all sorts of animals they can put into their mouth.

Tapirs belong to the order of Perissodactyla: hoofed animals with an odd number of toes on each foot (like rhinos and horses). One recognizes their kinship with horses by their snouts. While the tapir used to be native to many places in Costa Rica, it once was very close to extinction. Many grass swamps, forested hillsides and rainforests have disappeared, thereby dangerously reducing their habitat. Today, tapirs are recovering in the National Parks of Corcovadoand Tenorio.

Peccaries – as pigs, giraffes, bison and cattle - belong to the order of Artiodactyla, that is hoofed animals with an even number of toes on their feet. There are two peccary species in Costa Rica, which live mostly in groups (the White-Lipped Peccaries being more sociable than the Collared Peccaries).

Paca and Agouti are rodents and hence marked by their efficient large incisor teeth, with which they are able to cut and slice an abundance of materials. They are vegetarians that feed on fruit, seeds and nuts and the occasional insect to boost their protein level.

Deer are large mammals, found in many regions of the planet. They are grazers and cud-chewers who regurgitate their meals and chew it again to digest it. Although it surprises many travelers, deer are quite common in Costa Rica and are not seldomly spotted on the edge of a wood.

THE INSECTS

There are about 34,000 insect species in Costa Rica. Costa Rica is home to at least 1,239 species of butterflies. You can spot butterflies all over Costa Rica. But particularly nice is the area around Poas Volcano, where you find the lovely Butterfly Garden at the Cataratas La Paz.

Monteverde is also a good place to see butterflies; there is an old butterfly house there that offers professionally guided tours where you can learn a lot about those colored animals.

Stay tuned for my next segment of this amazing country called Costa Rica. I hope you are learning tons about this wonderful location in real life that we call our home on Second Life.

Cya soon, Brendan Macarthur