Here are a few misconceptions, commonly confused, and important travel tips from those who have lived in Costa Rica for quite some time:

1. It’s ok to drink the water, except in the rural, remote areas. It just may taste pretty chlorinated in some cities.
2. There is no need for a Typhoid, Malaria, or any other shot when visiting.
3. You do need to be concerned about Dengue Fever, especially on the Caribbean side.

4. Costa Rica is just 10 degrees above the Equator and the sun is intense, so wear sunscreen even if you don’t usually get burnt.
5. Drivers here are crazy.  Road signs are sparse and often not followed.
6. If you are in an auto accident, DO NOT move your car.  All cars involved must stay exactly as they are and wait for the police and insurance agent to show up to determine the cause.
7. When you leave Costa Rica you need an exit visa, around $30 per person.Â
8. If you look at a map and think it will take 2 hours to go somewhere, always plan on more time as bad roads, traffic, and hilly roads always cause delays.
9. Do not carry around your passport around with you as pocket theft is an issue.  Instead carry around a copy of the stamp and your picture.
10.   Last but not least, you are in Costa Rica and the pace of life is slower, so be patient, relax, and don’t get worked up as the response to that is nil.

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Filed under: Travel on August 7th, 2007