U.S. Embassy Issues New Crime Warning for Tourists Visiting Costa Rica

A paradise under pressure: Why Caution is now important.

Costa Rica has been a dream destination long enough, it its green rainforests, beaches, getting tanned in the sun, exotic wildlife, and the relaxed lifestyle of pura vida. However, in more recent times, that picture of the postcard has been tarnished by the increasing crime rate, especially against tourists. Break-ins, robberies, extortion of rentals, and Airbnb-style properties have been on the rise. Consequently, the U.S. embassy in Costa Rica has declared a nationwide alert whereby tourists, particularly U.S. citizens, are advised to assess their safety options before deciding to visit Costa Rica. The message itself is clear: beauty is there, but it should be eyed first.

Rental Hazards and Unplanned Break-Ins: Vacation Homes Become Easy Targets.

Vacation homes and short-term rentals are one of the most threatening trends. Criminals are also reported to target foreigners as they stay in Airbnb or small guesthouses, usually when no one is home or at night. Stealing is not restricted to valuables; sometimes it is forced or even a threat. Instead of just picking a well-rated establishment, it now requires one to go deeper into the review and look at the safety indicators, make sure that the locks and security systems are sound, and to take your rental as a second home, not a gambling resort on vacation, when going to Costa Rica.

Street Smarts: How to Be Out and About without Getting into Trouble.

Threats are present even in the outside rentals. Travelers are also being advised not to walk alone, especially during the nighttime or on dark streets, or on lonely beaches. It is highly discouraged to show your wealth (e.g., flashy jewellery, costly watches). Some of the tips that experts recommend include blending in, keeping valuable items minimal, and being mindful of the environment. Visitors are easy prey in tourist destinations, and a minor level of caution can go a long way in ensuring that the trip does not take its toll on the visitor but, in fact, is enjoyable rather than stressful.

Use of ATM, Valuables, and What to Do During a Crisis.

There is also the growth of financial crimes. Tourists are advised to watch their money at the ATM and to limit themselves to the daily withdrawal amount instead of withdrawing very high amounts at a time. It is advisable to store safe-deposits, carry travel papers safely, and not to leave valuable things in cars or unattended. Another lesson is learned by the Embassy: when they are met by robbers, do not resist, but yield, as in such perilous times it is wiser to have preserved more than honor.

Not all people feel Danger, But Risk Sustenance Means Risk Replanning.

It should be mentioned: a large number of travelers still continue to enjoy Costa Rica with a sense of security, particularly those who go to secure resorts or work in a group of people during the day. However, the increasing number of crimes reported has altered the general picture. To the tourists, it translates to a new kind of mindset when planning their vacations: studies, care, and consideration of the local circumstances. Paradise does not disappear, but priorities change.

Traveling Smart: How to Save the Dream without Nightmare.

In case you are determined to visit Costa Rica, though, still, it is a beautiful place to visit, there are some practical steps you can take, book your accommodations with high security measures; do not walk alone during the late hours; do not keep any valuable items on your hands; keep your cash and documentation locked away; use covered means of transportation and always travel with someone. And never travel uneducated, of course, it can be the difference between following official travel warnings and local information.