What travel experiences have you had? Were they absurd, adventurous, spiritual or downright frightening? If you are planning to travel to Costa Rica, here are some sensible advice and hot tips on what not to do and what to avoid to make the most of your Costa Rica getaway.
Costa Rica is generally considered to be a very safe travel destination. Costa Ricans as a whole are honest and friendly. Statistically, Costa Rica has a low crime rate as compared to other countries. However, as it happens in most places, tourists are prime targets for petty theft than the locals. It is always a good idea to exercise caution whenever one travels to Costa Rica.
The main problems travels have to contend with in the city are street mugging and pickpocketing. In downtown San Jose, you need to be on your guard at all times especially in isolated and poor sections of the city. Gangs of youngsters called “chapulines” engage in snatching and pickpocketing. Never carry anything of value if you will not need it especially flashy jewelry. Carry only enough cash for the day and do not flash wads of bills when paying for something.
Avoid getting drunk in public so as not to attract mugging. Do not engage an inebriated person in an argument. When taking strolls, avoid secluded areas such as dark alleys and marginalized sections of the city. Do not stop if you are accosted by strangers, be they beggars or street vendors. They may be pickpockets. Even women and small children can be purse snatchers. To safe guard your purse from thieves on motorcycles; always walk away from the curb with your purse away from the street.
If you plan to go somewhere, hire an official taxi, one that is clearly identified with official markings. Some cruising taxis can be baits for robbers. If you do decide to bring a companion to your room, be extra cautious as prostitutes are infamous for wiping out their customers’ wallets before leaving.
It is also common for luggage to be stolen while their owners are distracted and even when they are deposited for safekeeping in the package counter. Make sure you have your name prominently written in your luggage. Never ever entrust your luggage to strangers except to duly identified airport porters. Lock your luggage before you leave your hotel room.
Car theft, both the car and valuables inside also happens. Make sure that your car is locked. Never leave anything of value inside your car even in the trunk anywhere in Costa Rica at all times of the day. Moreover, never park your car on the streets of San Jose, the Valle Central towns, Puntarenas and Limon. Always leave your car in a secure parking lot. Avoid parking in dark areas as this may tempt would-be carnappers. Be extra careful while driving. Streets in Costa Rica can be rough as in potholes. Some roads are not even properly marked and lighted.
There are corrupt traffic officers who flag down drivers just to extort money. If you have the misfortune of being stopped, never under any circumstance pay them off. If you did not commit any violation, contest it. But if you did commit an infraction just pay the fine.
You may also be approached by people offering to change your dollars to “colones”, the national currency, decline their offer. Change your money in accredited exchange centers only.
Outside San Jose, especially in parks, be respectful of nature. Stay on designated trails. Heed warning signs. If you surmise that a trail looks dangerous, always turn back even if there are no warning signs. This generally applies to areas around volcanoes and mountains. Always be prepared fro drastic temperature changes in high elevations. Refrain from crossing rivers that flow into the sea. Rivers can transform to huge torrents instantaneously from upstream rain so be careful more so while bathing.
Costa Rica boasts of magnificent beaches but some of them can be very dangerous. Before you take the plunge, ask around. Be wary of open beaches or any beach with a river mouth. Always stay near other swimmers and do not venture into the ocean if you are an experienced swimmer.
Illegal drugs are prohibited in Costa Rica. Trafficking in illegal drugs carries mandatory imprisonment of 3 to 25 years.
Finally, always stay with your group. If traveling alone, never trust anybody you have not been properly introduced to by someone you know.
All said, enjoy your trip!