In the last couple of years, Costa Rica has become one of the most popular tropical destinations for weddings, elopements, honeymoons, and vacations. There are many reasons for this. It is a pretty easy place to get to, especially for Americans who can be on the beach within six hours of leaving home. It is also a beautiful country. Costa Rica has been blessed with gorgeous beaches, rainforests filled with exotic animals, and mesmerizing volcanoes.
Costa Rica is also considered the Switzerland of Central America. While its neighboring countries have experienced political instability, violence and extreme poverty, Costa Rica has largely avoided these problems. Its stable, democratic government means that you are not likely to find yourself in the middle of a coup on your vacation.
Costa Rica is so committed to peace that the military was disbanded decades ago. And while there are still some problems with public services, with wealth comes state-of-the-art private hospitals. People come to Costa Rica because it is safe. But, just like in any other country, it is important to use commonsense.
Vacation Tips | Trip To Costa Rica
My Vacation To Costa Rica
Here are some tips for how to make sure that your visit to Costa Rica isn’t ruined by any unfortunate mishaps.
Tips for Keeping Your Money in Your Pocket
While violent crime is almost unheard of in Costa Rica, petty theft is common in some places. If you are spending any time in San Jose, make sure that you keep a close eye on your wallet and bags. Pickpockets often target people who stand out, so while you can wear whatever you want on the beach, it is a good idea to try to blend in a little bit more in San Jose. Both men and women should wear jeans.
Men can wear a clean t-shit or a button down shirt, but should make sure that their appearance is tidy. Women should avoid revealing or tight clothing that will draw the attention of both pickpockets and unwanted admirers.
When walking around San Jose, be sure to keep your money in a secure place. Men should put their wallet in their front pocket instead of the back pocket. Better yet, keep it in a zippered pocket of a zipped bag. Women should either carry their belongings in a zippered purse or backpack.
Another place where pickpockets like to work is in bus stations and on public transportation. Always keep a hand on your bags. A good thief can take your bag in seconds, so even leaving it unattended for a little while isn’t smart. While traveling on a public bus, keep your bag in your lap or in the luggage compartment under the bus. Never put anything in the overhead areas.
Vacation Tips | Trip To Costa Rica
Holidays In Cuba
Tips for Keeping those Mosquitoes Away
Unlike traveling to Africa and Asia, you won’t have to get a whole much of vaccines before your trip to Costa Rica. Visitors should be aware, however, that the country has seen a lot of cases of dengue fever and malaria in recent years. Both of these diseases are carried by mosquitoes and have spread to most coastal areas in the world – even the United States.
The majority of the serious reported outbreaks in Costa Rica have been on the Caribbean Coast, but it is still a good idea to avoid being bitten by a mosquito anywhere in the country. The best way to do this is to wear good insect repellent and reapply it often; wear light-colored, loose-fitting clothing; and sleep with mosquito netting or in an air conditioned room.
While it is a good idea to follow these tips while on your trip, do not let fear get in the way of having a fun time. After all, the vast majority of visitors to Costa Rica do not get malaria or dengue fever. Most never even run into a single pickpocket.
Author: Tammy is a travel freelance writer and works as a part time yoga instructer at Shaka Surf Camp in Costa Rica.
|
