The US Embassy San Jose has issued a safety alert for Costa Rica.
The alert was issued on Nov. 25, citing studies of latest property crimes, monetary crimes and robberies.
“Vacationers have reported break-ins and armed robberies at Airbnbs and different rental properties,” the alert says.
Almost 3 million individuals visited Costa Rica in 2024, in line with Instituto Costarricense de Turismo.
The alert provides that prison gangs have compelled vacationers to withdraw massive sums of money from ATMs or by making financial institution transfers.
“Don’t show indicators of wealth, similar to carrying costly jewellery or watches,” the Embassy advises.
Vacationers are inspired to keep away from touring alone, to remain vigilant when visiting banks or ATMs and to by no means go away valuables unattended in autos.
When renting a automotive, vacationers are advised to “double examine [that the] car is locked.” The alert added that “thieves usually use sign blockers to stop autos from locking with key fobs.”
As for monetary crimes, vacationers are inspired to set day by day withdrawal limits from financial institution accounts, decrease funds stored in anybody account and focus on safety methods with their banks forward of any journeys.
The nice and cozy paradise is thought for its seashores, rainforests, wildlife and journey actions.
Whereas all-inclusive resorts are in style, there are a whole lot of rental properties obtainable.
The alert tells vacationers to analysis Airbnbs, rental properties and resorts prematurely of journeys.
“Make sure the property has robust safety measures, and preserve doorways and home windows locked,” the advisory says.
“Keep away from properties with evaluations that point out safety incidents.”
The US State Division has had a Degree 2 journey advisory in place since Dec. 10, 2024.
“Petty crime is frequent all through Costa Rica,” says the advisory justification.
“Violent crime additionally impacts vacationers. This contains armed theft, murder and sexual assault.”
