Tips for Safety in Costa Rica
Costa Rica is a beautiful an interesting country to visit and to have a very nice vacations however as every country in the world has its own problems and features that have to be taken into account if you want to avoid any kind of problems. There are son tips that you can use to enjoy your stay in the country. The way of life for Costa Ricans tend to be more relaxed than the U.S. or European countries, be patient if things last longer than in your home country.
The road infrastructure (the conditions of the road and traffic signals) in Costa Rica is not very developed, be patient when traveling within the country because sometimes can be dangerous by the bad conditions of the roads. Generally the cars do not give space to other cars or pedestrian, for that reason be careful when crossing streets or when you are driving.
If you are in the streets wear conservative. Foreigners often receive more attention than desired, for that reason in some occasions attracts the attention of criminals like thieves. Do not forget to ask what the food the food has when you are eating in some restaurant. The majority of the restaurants and locals are clean but is better to be sure.
If you are in the beach do not leave things unattended on the beach while swimming. On the beach, discover which parts of the coast are safe and which are not. If you feel that you are pushed by the sea, stay calm, do not try to swim directly to shore, instead, swim parallel to the shore where the waves break and let them help you get you back to the beach.
Wherever you are always carry a photocopy of your passport, showing your photograph and the date you entered the country. Leave the original in the safe of your hotel. Is important to keep your airline ticket, important documents, cash and travelers checks in the safe of the hotel. Is a good idea to type the numbers of your traveler checks in a separate place.
It is very important that you always change your money in a bank or in your hotel, but never on the street, can be dangerous. Do not use valuable jewelry and carry only the amount of money you need for each day.
Under any circumstances do not give money to traffic police or other police officers. The taxis in Costa Rica are red with the license number painted on the center of a yellow triangle on both doors. The taxis in the airport are always orange. If you go out at night, ask the hotel receptionist to call you a taxi.
Inside the National Parks follow the security measures set within the Park, explore the trails in groups of two or more and not touch any plant or try to touch the animals. Please make an effort to cause a minimal negative impact on the natural environment and human that you find, is a good way to conserve the natural resources of the country.
Buy coffee. Even if you are not a coffee drinker, it is very likely that if someone who knows what it is and coffee is the best buy of Costa Rica.