Traveling Safely In Costa Rica And Abroad
January 19th, 2010 by Leslie J. Riannen
Costa Rica is the only country in Central America that abolished its army, which happened back in the late 1940’s. To this day this spectacular place brings hundreds of thousands of visitors to its beautiful beaches and countryside’s with little or no incident. Why not come and see what all the fuss is about?
While traveling to any foreign country there are just unspoken safety tips you should always follow. Costa Rica is no different. Having a vacation that you enjoy and is free of stress is easy in Costa Rica so make your plans and don’t forget these simple things.
Costa Rica accepts American dollars and their currency, colones. Many establishments frown upon traveler’s checks because they take a long time to collect from the bank. There are stories from many business owners who will tell you that they have been burned with Traveler’s check either by the bank or patrons therefore, they are leery to accept them.
Many people do feel safer traveling with traveler’s checks and that is fine. However, remember to write the numbers of the check’s down and keep them in a different location then the traveler’s checks. Never exchange your money on the streets and take your traveler’s checks to a bank and exchange them for dollars or colones.
Keep your passport in the safe with your plane tickets back at the hotel and all you need to have is a copy of your passport, including the current visa stamp page. If you are driving a rental car, then always keep a current driver’s license with you. Make sure that your car documentation is current and in the glove compartment of the car as well.
When traveling through populated areas like San Jose, we suggest you keep your doors locked and the windows up. Valuables left on the seat in the car can be fair game for petty thieves; so don’t risk loosing your valuables. There are many hitchhikers on the roads and we recommend that you do not pick them up.
My Uncle has visited Costa Rica many times and always says, “Costa Rica is the only place I know where you can pick up a hitchhiker carrying a machete and not feel threatened.” Costa Rican’s use these uncharacteristic tools to cut the grass and overhanging tree branches from the roadways. So don’t freak out when you see them traveling down the road brandishing their gardening tools.
Costa Rica has been home to me for over two years and it’s been a pleasant and peaceful experience. The Tico’s, as they are commonly called, are incredibly special people. They are bighearted and enjoy the visitors who come to experience their amazing country.
Tico’s are amazing people and will share their meals and home with you if you need. At the same time, you should know that their average income per month is not usually more than $500. They are proud of their culture and heritage and love their country so treat them and their beautiful land with respect and you will be amazed at their generosity.
Coming to Costa Rica? Leslie J. Riannen Asks that you visit in style while staying Eco Friendly by picking the only . Mapache offers for its total fleet of low emission cars. Visit their website to reserve safely and securely before your next trip.
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