Guanacaste: water, tourism and developmentCEFR A1
21 Apr 2026
Adapted from Liz Carrigan, Global Voices • CC BY 3.0
Photo by Erick Morales Oyola, Unsplash
- Guanacaste is a very dry region.
- Many people come to the area to live permanently.
- Many people buy houses and apartments there.
- Many houses stay empty for many months.
- Long ago people cut many trees for farms.
- This harmed the local dry forests and wildlife.
- Hotels and developers need a lot of water.
- Nearby communities often face water shortages.
- Local people often protest to protect water.
- Local residents organise to defend their water rights.
Difficult words
- region — a large area of land or place
- permanently — for a very long time; not leaving
- shortages — times when there is not enough of something
- protest — a public show of disagreement or anger
- protect — keep something safe from harm
- wildlife — animals and plants living in nature
Tip: hover, focus or tap highlighted words in the article to see quick definitions while you read or listen.
Discussion questions
- Would you like to live in a very dry region?
- Have you ever seen empty houses?
- Would you join a protest to protect water?
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