Infrastructure

Costa Rica is considered one of the most advanced countries in Latin America with electricity available almost everywhere in the country. The water in Costa Rica is safe to drink. Telephones and faxes are common place and internet services are also readily available in the more populated cities. Because Costa Rica raises much of its own food you’ll have the opportunity to sample some very interesting fruits and vegetables and the preparation of these fresh fruits and vegetables is often different but tasty.

1 Safety

Costa Rica is considered a very safe country with few if any violent crimes and enjoys the reputation of being the safest country in Latin America. The people of Costa Rica are honest hardworking and easy going. They love to mingle with tourists and help in any way they can. Despite their good intentions some individuals may be less than trustworthy. Most offenses in Costa Rica are minimal and non violent and seem to be opportunistic in nature rather than planned. Visitors to Costa Rica can relax knowing they are relatively safe anywhere in the country and by taking normal precautions will enjoy a safe and happy trip.

The more common dangers in Costa Rica often revolve around the wild life and geography of the country. More tourists are injured from accidents rather than crime. Being aware of your surroundings, respectful of the wildlife, and caution in new surroundings are all important in order to remain safe and uninjured in Costa Rica. Never swim in lakes or rivers alone and be very watchful and aware of the surrounding water and land for Cayman and other predators. Swimming in the ocean is safe but waves and rip tides are present and many swimmers will be rescued because they chose to ignore the signs of a dangerous situation.

One of the most amazing facts surrounding Costa Rica is the lack of a national army. The army was abolished in 1948 after victory in their civil war. The budget previously established for the army was then diverted to health and education and is considered the reason Costa Rica has one of the highest literacy rates in the world along with one of the highest life expectancy rates as well. They rank right up there beside Japan and France.

2 Travel

The country is serviced by three main airports for international travel and several smaller airstrips for local flights. Taxis and buses are everywhere throughout the busier cities and very inexpensive. Bus service throughout the country makes any city in Costa Rica easily accessible and is a common and economical source of transportation for tourists and locals alike.

3 Health Care

The health services in Costa Rica have very high standards and relatively inexpensive for the care you receive. Both private and public health care exists in Costa Rica. The CCSS is a national health care system offered to Costa Rican residents, providing quality health care at a minimum of cost. There are also many private practices within the country although they can be more costly. Costa Rica’s social security system offers emergency medical assistance for travelers and is available from many tour guide offices, travel agencies and some language schools.