Dos and Don’ts in Costa Rica

Written By Vladimir Naumoff

Like in every other country there are some things you do because its normal to do and some you don’t. Costa Ricans are in majority very friendly and happy people. If you stack on the road, they will come and help you, if you need direction they will try to explain you using their fingers how to get there and if you still didn’t get it they will find for you who can speak your language to explain. There is a different side of Costa Rica and again I would say like everywhere else. Theft, drugs, and other crime is not common but still there. Don’t try to buy drugs in Costa Rica if you don’t want get yourself into the serious problems with the police. Don’t get drunk, because you will be mugged. Don’t be rude to locals. Say hi and Pura Vida anywhere you go. Costa Rican like friendly relations, act like you know the guy for ages. Help other when you can.

Now practical stuff.

Don’t bring Canadian money to Costa Rica. Change some for USD and some for local CR Colonnes. Banks in Canada and US will do that if you will tell them in advance. The prices in Costa Rica for most goods and services are the same as in Canada and a bit cheaper than in US.

The water in Costa Rica is very good and you can drink water from the water main no problem. But in some rural locations in (Cano Negro for example) you better stay with bottled water. It’s not that anyone that I know got seriously sick but first day or two better to drink from the buttle.

SUNSCREEN A MUST!!!

Insects. Yes there are mosquitoes in Costa Rica. Not everywhere but in the few places. There are many other things that you need to stay away but about this later.

When you on the trail, stay on the trail. Listen to the guids and don’t do stupid things. There are over 140 different species of snakes in Costa Rica (other terrafing spiders and frogs are not included), 23 venimos and only 2 will kill you right on the spot. But other 115 will make you really sick and ruin your vacation.

Wash your hands and disinfect. COVID-19 restrictions are dropped but it didn’t go anywhere. Use your musks at the airport. Wash your hans often and just keep your hands in your packets as much as you need to.

Yes, one more thing…. You are already there. Smile and be happy!

Vladimir Naumoff

About

From Montreal, Quebec, Canada. I am a semi-professional photographer. Born in 1962 in Saint Petersburg, Russia. During my childhood, I developed a strong fascination for nature and wildlife. I got my first camera at the age of 14, I became as passionate about photography soon after I came to Ontario, Canada where I started photographing birds and animals.

My initial dream is to publish a book on my wildlife photography. Around 2007, I started to publish my photographs in magazines and online, I did some smaller books and calendars but my intensive hobby actually developed into a thriving career of a pro wildlife photographer-educator.

Today I work as an independent photography educator and teach others how to photograph beautiful nature and wildlife. I organize and lead photography tours in America. My primary destinations are Costa Rica, Panama, Venezuela, Nicaragua, Guatemala and Canada/USA. I manage and organize personal and small group tours for the best experience possible. In Canada, I provide educational services in Mont-Tremblant, Quebec region.

I also photograph people and every other style of photography. For more information on services, I provide please go to my contact page and send me a quick note. I like to invite you and your friends to discover the beautiful nature in Canada and South America.

PERFECT PICTURE EVERY TIME!

http://www.lightmaster.ca
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Photogear recommended for Costa Rica Birding adventure. This is our only opinion based on the previous experience.