Coming to Costa Rica? Some things you may need to know:

• The water here IS safe to drink however be aware in the first few days of drinking. Just like a change in diet, your stomach needs to adjust to different water.
• You don't need malaria tablets. Cases of malaria and Dengue Fever are very rare here and as long as you have a good mosquito repellent containing DEET then you should be fine.
• Costa Rica is only 10 degrees north of the equator and the sun is strong so bring a good sun cream and use it.
• If renting a car here, remember there a few or no street signs so unless you have a good map you can get very lost!
• Costa Rican drivers are very 'creative' on the roads and often pay little or no attention to road laws so BE CAREFUL.
• Shopping at stores or restaurants that have no marked prices or prices in dollars will charge you too much and you could end up getting taken for a ride.

• Tell your bank and credit card companies that you are coming to Costa Rica. If they notice withdrawals in a foreign land without you telling them, they can't get hold of you and may well block your card and accounts.
• Most credit/debit cards are accepted here and ATM machines are widely available.
• Be careful of petty thefts. Costa Rica is not bad for crime but pickpockets are everywhere worldwide.
• Don't carry your passport on you. Make a copy of the picture page and if needed for identity purposes, take that with you.
• Accept and respect the locals and their culture. Relax. You are here as a foreigner and should comply with the Tico way of life.
• The food here is good and the best places to go to are small restaurants or 'sodas' where a Tico will be in the kitchen with knowledge and skill. The big universal restaurants that cater for tourists will not only disappoint but will not give you any insight into Costa Rican cuisine.
• You DO need a passport to enter Costa Rica. To contrary belief, you can't enter the country with a drivers license or birth certificate!
• Dollars and credit cards are NOT accepted everywhere. Travelers cheques are not widely accepted everywhere either. Outside the central valley, colones are the main form of payment however, ATMs are widely available.
• When you leave Costa Rica there is a departure tax of about $26 which you can pay with credit card, colones or dollars. A great way to get rid of excess currency.
• Always check your bills at restaurants in case of 'errors'.

Enjoy your stay!

This article was brought to you by Caroline Wilson, a web consultant for Costa Rica News.

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