Taking a trip to Costa Rica is not just about sequestering yourself in a luxurious resort and recreating your life at home. Costa Rica is a land of natural wonders and ecological diversities where unique vacation adventures abound. Dare to whitewater raft through the pristine jungles or slide through a canopy of trees on vines? These and much more is Costa Rica. To ensure that you have a thrilling and memorable time in Costa Rica, here are some handy travel tips.
First and foremost, leave behind pre-conceptions about what your Costa Rica sojourn will be like. Expect the unexpected. Expect an adventure. Upon arrival, adapting to a totally different environment may at times be difficult but look at it as a positive and interesting learning experience. This way you will truly enjoy your trip.
Costa Rica, a tropical paradise, is at the mercy of Mother Nature. Thus, varying weather conditions exist. Dress in layers. Being able to add or remove clothes will be very convenient. As a whole, comfortable lightweight is the ideal. However, in higher elevations such as Monteverde, bring warm clothing. Temperatures can fall considerably.
Wear sunscreen, higher protection than 15 SPF for adults and at least 45 SPF for children and water proof if possible. Do not forget your sunglasses and wide brim hats. Costa Rica is close to the equator. The sun’s ultraviolet rays are much more direct and stronger making the skin burn faster.
As mentioned, weather in Costa Rica can be very unpredictable. Bring along a foldable umbrella or a rain poncho as rain showers can be unexpected and sudden.
Other suggested items to pack along on a trip to Costa Rica are binoculars, camera and lots of film as these are quite expensive in Costa Rica, comfortable footwear such as waterproof lightweight hiking boots and sandals, one or two swimsuits, plastic water bottles for hikes, flashlight with spare batteries, small day pack or backpack for hiking, plastic bags for wet items, insect repellant and medicines if necessary.
Although you can travel around Costa Rica without speaking Spanish, you are missing a great experience if you do not try to acquire at least a rudimentary knowledge of Spanish. You can start a conversation with a local with whatever Spanish you know. Any Costa Rican will cheerfully try to help you when he/she knows you want to speak the language. Communication with the locals will be so much easier and fun if you know even a little Spanish. In any case, always flash your sweet smile. It is the best form of communication.
Bear in mind that punctuality is not something Costa Ricans adhere to or expect from others. Efficiency is not also a common trait so be very patient and calm.
As in most places around the world, crime is a given. Visitors to Costa Rica should pay attention to personal safety. For one, leave expensive jewelry at home. As much a possible use traveler’s checks instead of cash. Just carry enough cash for the day and only one credit card.
Keep your tickets and money separate while traveling around Costa Rica in the event of theft/loss. Always keep your belongings in sight and reach. Never leave your things unattended not even for a second. It is advisable to use a money belt or a concealed pouch for valuables.
While inside a car, keep doors locked, windows up and valuables out of sight. When you leave your car, look for a guarded parking lot. If you must leave things in your car, keep them out of sight.
When walking, avoid secluded areas or go with a group or a reputable guide. Never walk alone at night.
Finally, make every effort to preserve and conserve Costa Rica’s natural resources during your stay in the country.