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Is Costa Rica dangerous for tourists?
While in the past there has been few incidents in Costa Rica the Foreign and Commonwealth office rate Costa Rica as a safe country to visit for tourists. Crimes against tourists is on the rise but usually only amount to petty theft and nothing more, however as the number of tourists increase so will the crime rate. When in Costa Rica treat the country and people with respect and they will do the same, do not do anything you would not normally do in Costa Rica (buy drugs, talk to strangers, walk alone at night, or flaunt valuables). As with any journey you undertake use common sense and you will have a great Costa Rican Holiday.
Is the food safe to eat?
The food in Costa Rica is mainly healthy and consists of rice, beans and a meat of some kind (Casado). The greater San Jose area has a wider variety of dining due to a high concentration of foreign residents and locals of mixed ethnic backgrounds. However European and American cuisine can found in most areas. The food is very safe to eat and there are minimal cases of illness, however as with any country the change in diet may have adverse effects on your health but normally people are OK. With regards to the drinking water in Costa Rica you can drink from the tap but are advised to drink bottled water as you body may reject the different water texture.
What are the hospitals like in Costa Rica?
The emergency number in Costa Rica is 911 (like the US) for all emergency services. The healthcare system in Costa Rica is one of the best with most professionals being trained in the US or Europe. Costa Rica has state of the art and up to date hospitals and you will be in capable hands. Please make sure you travel with insurance when in Costa Rica.
What Vaccinations do i need?
You do not need any vaccinations to enter Costa Rica, if you are up to date with UK vaccinations then you will be fine. With regards to Malaria there are few cases ever reported in Costa Rica and unless you are traveling to remote areas of Costa Rica for prolonged amounts of time then there is no need to take malaria tablets.
Are the beaches safe to swim in?
Most of the beaches in Costa Rica are safe for swimming however if you see nobody swimming, do not swim!! Please ask locals or your hotel for specific areas and their safeness for swimming. If you do ever get dragged out to sea by a rip tide do not panic and start to swim against the current, simply swim parallel to the shore until the current subsides.