Costa Rica, like any other country, is best enjoyed with a travel plan, an open mind and sensitivity to the culture and a flair for a little adventure as well. Also remember that almost every negative situation can be avoided with the use of common sense and an awareness of where you are and the environment around you.

Some tips:

1. Pre-plan your transportation with a reputable guide or driver, unless you've been here many times and know exactly where you are going. There are no street signs in Costa Rica, there are a few highway signs to help on the main routes, but the stress and lack of reliable updated maps, makes driving on your own an unnecessary risk.

2. If you want to rent a car and be your own driver, it is more advisable to do so once you arrive at your main destination and can venture out from there. Especially if you are at a small beach town, where there aren't too many roads to get lost on! A 4 wheel drive vehicle is advisable.

3. Avoid driving at night due to potholes, poor lighting, animals, people on foot and bicycles, weather, etc.

4. Avoid driving through rivers especially during the green season. What looks like a small stream can be very deep and powerful. Also, speed bumps are serious here, and generally come in pairs around schools.

5. Keep a copy of your passport and entry stamp page at all times. Put your original passport in a pre-inspected hotel safe if possible.

6. Never leave items, especially valuables or passports unattended in your car. This includes suitcases, backpacks and other items in the glove compartment. Rental cars attract thieves.

7. Do not travel in Costa Rica with large amounts of cash. Costa Rica is a rapidly growing country with many ATM machines and business that accept credit cards. There are banks in most big towns that will cash travelers checks with your original passport. The dollar is widely accepted, but not in denominations over 50 dollar bills. You will get change in colones.

8. Most crimes here are "crimes of opportunity". Don't put down a backpack while you go surfing, swimming or soaking in hot springs. Don't bring down unnecessary luxuries or jewelry to worry about! Don't give someone the "opportunity".

9. Know the exchange rate. It's easy to do.

10. Bring a dictionary. While Costa Rica is full of English speaking natives and tourists, you never know when you'll need to get your point across. This is Costa Rica, the national language is Spanish, be prepared to at least make an attempt to use it. The rewards can be great !

11. If you like to party, remember that Costa Rica has its share of party spots and people looking to exploit a situation where inebriation or an altered state of judgment creates an opportunity for theft or foul play.

12. Be careful swimming: there are many strong surf beaches and not many lifeguards. Ask locals about the currents.

13. Consider renting a cell phone, especially if you are staying at several different destinations. Ask us for more info on this, or ask your local provider if they have coverage in Costa Rica. This can be pricey - check. It's a good tool to have in case of emergencies. If you need one, feel free to ask to borrow one. Cell service is inexpensive here and taxi drivers and shop keepers will often loan out theirs for quick calls within Costa Rica.

14. Mosquito repellent, sun block, umbrellas, and all the other basics are easily available at most towns in Costa Rica. If you have a specific brand you can't do without, bring it with you.

15. When shopping, ask around or look for a price tag before you commit to what you instinctively feel might be too much! While bargaining is not common, it is always worth asking for a 10% or 20% discount, especially for cash.

16. If you use the public bus system (an excellent and very cheap alternative), keep an eye on your valuables or keep them in your lap. If you are very tall or heavier than average the bus system here can be an uncomfortable option because of the smaller seating area.

17. A good guide book can be invaluable. We recommend the Lonely Planet latest edition on Costa Rica. Many are good, but current is more important.

18. Everyone, especially taxi drivers, will tell you they are a Costa Rica real estate agent. Stick with the licensed professionals.

19. Do talk to local residents. Costa Ricans (known as "Ticos") are generally kind, soft spoken and proud of the beauty of their country. Enjoy the non human residents, too: allow time to watch lizards, leaf cutter ants, monkeys and more. Costa Rica has over 870 species of birds including several found nowhere else on earth!