The US Embassy in San Jose has issued a safety alert for Costa Rica.
The alert was issued on Nov. 25, citing reviews 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.
Practically 3 million folks visited Costa Rica in 2024, in accordance with Instituto Costarricense de Turismo.
The alert provides that felony gangs have pressured vacationers to withdraw massive sums of money from ATMs or by making financial institution transfers.
“Don’t show indicators of wealth, reminiscent of 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 automobiles.
When renting a automobile, vacationers are informed to “double verify [that the] automobile is locked.” The alert added that “thieves typically use sign blockers to forestall automobiles from locking with key fobs.”
As for monetary crimes, vacationers are inspired to set every day withdrawal limits from financial institution accounts, reduce funds saved in anybody account and talk about 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 well-liked, there are lots of of rental properties accessible.
The alert tells vacationers to analysis Airbnbs, rental properties and lodges prematurely of journeys.
“Make sure the property has sturdy 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 Stage 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.”
