
The United States Embassy in Costa Rica issued A release addressed to American travelers in front of him Increase in crimes against tourists in this country, one of the most popular destinations for international visitors. The warning warns against this Robberies, robberies and extortions In temporary accommodation contain Airbnb And other rental platforms— and recommends Take extreme preventative measures during the stay.
The United States has warned that this has been the case in recent weeks “recent property crimes, financial crimes, and thefts affecting foreign nationals in Costa Rica, including U.S. citizens.”. In the same statement, the embassy added: “Tourists have reported robberies and armed robberies at Airbnb and other rental properties. Criminal gangs have targeted foreign-owned businesses and homes for crimes such as theft, burglary and extortion.”
Given this scenario, the embassy urges travelers to do so Research all the accommodations you want to book in advance. It also suggests Avoid real estate with Reviews linked to Security issues and check if this is the case appropriate protective measures. “Ensure the property has strict security measures in place and keep doors and windows closed.”says the statement. It also recommends the setting “Travel insurance that covers the loss or theft of valuables abroad”.
In case of suffering a Robbery attemptasks the embassy offer no physical resistance and repeated a series of recommendations: avoid showing yourself “Signs of wealth, such as wearing expensive jewelry or watches.”; Do not travel alone, especially at night; and don’t go “Valuables left unattended in vehicles”.
He also advises tourists “Be careful when visiting banks or ATMs” and establish daily withdrawal limits to reduce risks possible fraud or financial theft.
Costa Rica remains subject to a Level 2 travel advisory from the U.S. Department of Tourism, a category that recommends “Exercise caution” when visiting the travel destination. The official scale goes out Level 1 to 4The last reserved for countries where Traveling is not recommended.
“Minor crimes are commonplace throughout Costa Rica”says the agency’s report. And warns: “Violent crime also affects tourists. This includes armed robberies, homicides and sexual assaults.”.
The Ministry of Tourism reiterated guidelines similar to those issued by the embassy: Avoid “walking alone on beaches or on poorly lit streets.”, Don’t show expensive items And In the event of a robbery, don’t sit back.
In addition, US citizens were invited to enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (Step). free service that allows Receive notifications while they are abroad and makes location easier in emergency situations.
Despite the increasing uncertainty Costa Rica continues to intervene most rated travel destinations from those who search Nature and outdoor activities. Recognized, as stated by the travel and leisure portal, for its Beaches, national parks and hiking trailsis the Central American nation divided into seven tourism regionsaccording to the Costa Rican Tourism Institute. Among them stand out Guanacaste, the Pacific coast and the mountainous northern plains.