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Things to bring along
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Things about Costa Rica you may not know
When dining out you must ask for the check when you are finished. Here it is considered rude to rush you away from the table.
Directions are a challenge in Costa Rica. Many people do not own cars or travel far from home so be aware that when you get directions they may not be exact. Streets were only officially labeled a few years ago and most people don't use those as reference. If you are driving get a GPS.
I find people in Costa Rica are very kind and helpful. However they are very respectful and don't intrude. If you want to know more, ask. I have rarely found anyone here unwilling to make me feel welcome.
Not everyone speaks English. Spanish is the language of the country so please understand expecting everyone here to be able to understand English is unrealistic.
Petty crime is real. Be aware of your surroundings. These are common sense things but while on vacation people often do things they wouldn't at home. Don't leave your belongings on the beach, hanging on the back of a chair, or in a luggage rack where you can't see and touch them. If you are unsure of an area ask a tour guide or someone you trust about what you should know. Always carry a copy of your passport and keep the original someplace safe and secure. Don't carry all of your credit cards or money with you, only what you need. If you must do so don't keep them all in one place.
Beach safety. The waters in Costa Rica are warm, inviting, and beautiful. Few people visit without spending some time in the water and soaking up the sunshine. However, it's important to know that rip tides on both coast are common. Very few beaches have life guards so make sure you are comfortable with the size of the waves and your abilities before you venture out.
Directions are a challenge in Costa Rica. Many people do not own cars or travel far from home so be aware that when you get directions they may not be exact. Streets were only officially labeled a few years ago and most people don't use those as reference. If you are driving get a GPS.
I find people in Costa Rica are very kind and helpful. However they are very respectful and don't intrude. If you want to know more, ask. I have rarely found anyone here unwilling to make me feel welcome.
Not everyone speaks English. Spanish is the language of the country so please understand expecting everyone here to be able to understand English is unrealistic.
Petty crime is real. Be aware of your surroundings. These are common sense things but while on vacation people often do things they wouldn't at home. Don't leave your belongings on the beach, hanging on the back of a chair, or in a luggage rack where you can't see and touch them. If you are unsure of an area ask a tour guide or someone you trust about what you should know. Always carry a copy of your passport and keep the original someplace safe and secure. Don't carry all of your credit cards or money with you, only what you need. If you must do so don't keep them all in one place.
Beach safety. The waters in Costa Rica are warm, inviting, and beautiful. Few people visit without spending some time in the water and soaking up the sunshine. However, it's important to know that rip tides on both coast are common. Very few beaches have life guards so make sure you are comfortable with the size of the waves and your abilities before you venture out.