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costa rica:
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Here's some travel advice to keep you informed and safe when it comes
to travel to Costa Rica...
Personal Security
Violent crime including armed car-jacking and gang muggings continues to increase in Costa Rica. Foreigners have been the target of armed robberies and drug-related crime. Security risks are heightened in the capital city of San Jose.
Drink spiking, resulting in theft and assault, occurs in bars and other entertainment venues.
Incidents of sexual harassment and assault of women have occurred. The risk of sexual assault or harassment increases when alone on beaches or travelling alone in taxis.
Travellers have been robbed using taxis hailed on the street. Prepaid vouchers for licensed (orange) or official airport taxis can be purchased in front of the San Jose airport terminal.
Local Conditions
Driving in Costa Rica can be hazardous due to poorly maintained roads and vehicles, local driving practices, and inadequate road lighting. Traffic accidents are common.
The safety standards Australians might expect of tour operators are not always met, especially for adventure sports such as white-water rafting and jungle canopy tours. Sufficient life jackets for rafts and adequate safety equipment for jungle canopy tours may not be provided.
There are concerns about aircraft maintenance, civil aviation standards and private air travel services.
Costa Rica is in an active seismic zone and is subject to earthquakes and volcanic eruptions. The rainy season is May to November and the hurricane season from June to November. Landslides and flooding may occur. Information on hurricanes or other severe weather conditions can be obtained from the National Hurrican Center and Tropical Prediction Center.
Strong coastal currents, including rip tides on the Caribbean and Pacific coasts, can make swimming dangerous. Local authorities can provide advice regarding local conditions.
Local Law and Customs
Travellers are reminded that when overseas, they are subject to local laws. Local
laws and legal processes can be very different from those at home. A violation
of local laws may result in a jail sentence, served in a local prison. Consular
assistance cannot override local law, even where local laws may appear harsh or
unjust by your standards.
Foreigners taking photographs, particularly of children and women, are often regarded with suspicion. Permission should be obtained before taking photographs of women and children.
Entry and Exit Requirements
Visa conditions are subject to change. For up-to-date visa information, travellers should contact the nearest Embassy or Consulate of Costa Rica, well in advance of travel.
Health Issues
Medical facilities outside of urban areas are limited. Doctors and hospitals require cash payment prior to providing services, including emergency care. Medical emergencies may require evacuation to the USA, where the cost of medical treatment is extremely high.
Malaria and dengue fever are endemic.
Source: Australian Department of Foreign Affairs & Trade
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