Health and Safety

Before you begin your journey to your Costa Rica lodge, issues of safety should be a key concern for any overseas traveller. There are always a number of concerns present when considering a vacation to your perfect holiday getaway.

Careful planning will do away with many of the issues associated with travel arrangements. Remember, when in doubt, there are many embassies available and possibly close to your accommodation in Costa Rica and they can advise you on things e.g. where to go in case of an emergency, which doctors to see and even, in some cases, which water to drink. Here is a list of safety tips that will help you avoid many of the troubles you may encounter.

Prior Arrangements

From the very moment you decide to travel in Latin America, you must consider dressing the part. In other words, dress down. Flashing expensive jewellery and high-priced bags are an open invitation, to any would-be thief. Always travel light and leave the diamond necklace or Cartier watch at home. It is no coincidence that many travellers are seen with a cheap cell phone that can easily be replaced if stolen.

Items that should always be carried on your person include your identification documents, passport and credit card or whatever form of currency you are using on your trip but do not carry them all in one pocket. Studies have shown that a money belt worn under your shirt works best, if you are looking to avoid a potential theft. Spread your valuables across your body and all the better if you have pockets with zips. Consider using traveller’s checks instead of cash.

Make a travel plan and leave it with someone you trust back home, this is a guaranteed way to ensure your safety as you travel. Leave the numbers for your Costa Rica rainforest lodge and any other contact details on your itinerary as well. Also ensure that your insurance is up-to-date.

Travel Arrangements

When walking around the streets of a foreign city, be ever vigilant of your surroundings. Criminals can spot a tourist from miles away and this is when trouble begins. Travelling at night is especially dangerous for any tourist and it is advisable to travel in groups to avoid trouble. Pickpockets run rampant in many cities and have mastered the art of becoming an invisible in crowds. Many pickpockets will employ a second thief who will distract you while they bump into you and steal your valuables. Avoid looking lost or confused and move around with a purpose.

The public transport system of any foreign country is always a daunting affair. As you travel in Latin America, make your journey safer by again, travelling in groups and avoiding trains or busses at night. Do not take shortcuts as you travel, especially through any alleyways. Learn a few local phrases as this will come in handy when you need medical assistance or help from the local police. With this in mind, keep emergency telephone numbers on you at all times.

If you are a woman and have chosen to travel alone, try not to make direct eye contact when speaking with the men of the region. What you may perceive as normal conversation can come across as flirting to the locals. Keep your guard up and be as professional as you can at all times.

Never accept food or drink from an stranger. It is not uncommon to be given drugged food and to then be robbed of your valuables when you are unconscious.

Remember that the laws in other countries differ greatly from the laws in your native land. Even taking a small bottle of prescription medicine into some countries may be considered a form of drug trafficking. Always remember to check with your embassy before travelling to ensure the legalities of any drug you may need to carry with you. Any other crimes that may pass as minor infractions can be seen as a major crimes in the eyes of the foreign justice system.