www.CostaRicaTicas.com

I have been going to CR since about 87 and estimate I have at least 20 trips under my belt, plus six months of living there. I have noticed a bit of a trend here in people reporting theft and I thought I would take a stab metaphorically speaking, and put together some tips for playing safe in Costa Rica.

1) Have a wingman; agree before hand about watching each other’s back. Have a signal to use in an emergency or when something seems amiss.
2) Take a taxi at night, even if it is a short distance. Avoid like the plague, the taxi drivers parked outside the Del Ray. Instead go out into the street and flag a taxi down. Make sure they use a meter “La Maria”. There is no need to tip.
3) Do not take a taxi drivers advice or recommendations about clubs massage parlors or hotels. Do your own research and this board will tell you what you need to know.
4) Don’t leave your drink unattended or accept a drink from a untrusted source.
5) Don’t wear jewelry, including expensive watches or gold necklaces. It marks you as a target and you don’t need to show off.
6) Insure that you have and use the room safe. Closely guard the key.
7) Cull your wallet of unneeded credit cards. Leave excess credit cards, passport and cash in the safe.
Carry a photocopy of your passport.
9) Prefer a controlled environment over an uncontrolled environment. A controlled environment is where the girl is registered with her cedula or when you are in a trusted site, like the Zona Blue or New Fantasy. I am not saying that these places are completely safe, but they are definitely safer than other venues.
10) Do not befriend street vendors, hawkers, and distressed looking gringos telling strange tales. My favorite is the guy at the airport with the old incomplete ticket stubs who says got bite by a spider and needs some money for treatment. Avoid people on the street that want to engage you in discussions or otherwise gain your attention.
11) Avoid illegal activities including indulging in illegal substances or cheating someone out what they are due.
12) As far as P4P, Only monger in legitimate venues, such as the Del Ray, KL, Sportman’s ZB etc. etc. Avoid streetwalkers, especially in Morazon Park.
13) Wrap it before you play. Wash it afterwards and take a piss.
14) Taking two girls for play doubles the amount of vigilance you need exhibit. Favorite targets for these tag teams are mini-bars and any lose valuables. Lock everything up beforehand.
15) Watch yourself when using ATMs. I prefer to use ATMs located in secure areas such as the Casino in the Sleep Inn rather than in the street.


Happy Mongering