The general consensus is that Costa Rica is a beautiful country. It is often compared to an earthly paradise with its white-sanded beaches, green mountain ranges, and vibrant wildlife. Whether you visit the city or head off to the Costa Rican country landscapes you will find activities that will adjust to any budget: fishing, swimming, surfing, birdwatching, hiking, biking…you name it! There are plenty of outdoor activities at almost any time of the year and you can make friends with locals and tourists from all around the world while you do so. Nevertheless, a frequent question is whether it is a safe country to visit. There are some countries in Central America known for their compromised safety, but Costa Rica is the great exception. It actually ranks as one of the safest countries in the area.
Back in 1948, the Costa Rican government decided to abolish its army in order to create a nation focused on education, progress, and peace. 72 years later, the Costa Rican society has grown unused to violence and fear, and most people who visit notice this carefree atmosphere. There is also a high literacy rate, general courtesy, and good manners. In spite of this, you must not let your guard down. If you are planning to be in Costa Rica soon, here are a few tips to help you avoid uncomfortable situations.
Avoid being out by yourself.
The most common kind of crime is petty theft. If you are in a big city or at night avoid walking through isolated areas. The Costa Rican government generally reinforces security on areas frequented by crowds of people. Play it safe and stay close to these areas.
Avoid the flashy display of objects.
Try to avoid carrying expensive-looking gadgets, phones, watches, jewelry, or purses into crowded areas. These might single you out and draw attention from muggers.
Be alert when using public transportation.
Buses are a favorite for robbers. Keep your belongings close to you at all times. Also make sure zippers and buttons are not easily reachable by people close to you. Sometimes it is just better to remove your bag and carry it in your arms.
Do your research.
Find out from locals what would be a reasonable rate for uber or taxi rides as well as tours. In this way you will be able to spot a scam when you see one. Also, well-recognized companies should be accredited by national regulations. Find out about reviews of restaurants, hotels, and agencies before you formalize anything.
Trust your instinct.
Sometimes your gut will alarm you when you see something amiss. Listen to it. It is sometimes better to miss out on something than to regret about it. Finally, do not try things you would not do at home while at Costa Rica.
No vacation is pleasant if you are constantly worrying about safety. Luckily, Costa Rica is a place where people are generally pleasant and hospitable. Also, most of them have a general notion of English, so communication should not be hard. The best part is that you can also take advantage of the Costa Rican health system if anything happened. The attention is great and it is a fraction of the cost of US prices. The Costa Rica Dental Team is a dental clinic located in San Jose, Costa Rica. We are able to handle dental emergencies as well as planned full-mouth restorations. Our team is fully bilingual and receives patients from all around the world who come to Costa Rica for the best dental experience. Contact us now for more information.
