How safe and doable is it to travel to Costa Rica by myself? I do not have a lot of money and can go for up to three weeks.
Great choice! You’ve selected one of the safest countries in Latin America for solo women travelers. As for the political picture, Costa Rica’s a peaceful and peace-loving republic and has remained at a safe distance from the conflicts plaguing neighbors Nicaragua and El Salvador.
As for single women vis-à-vis the Ticos (Costa Rican men), machismo is alive and kicking (as is, alas, domestic violence). So don’t throw caution to the wind. Depending on the neighborhood, you’re likely to hear irritating hisses or calls of ”Mi amor.” Advice? Just keep walking. To identify shady locales, ask lots of questions of the locals or employees at your hotel, in restaurants, at tourist centers or of Tican women you meet during your travels.
Sexual assault in Costa Rica isn’t nearly as prevalent as it is in the U.S., perhaps because prostitution is legal. While foreign women are often viewed as quick and easy conquests, you’ll avoid hassles simply by staying alert.
Another bonus for solo women travelers: The tourism industry is well and wisely developed. Accommodations and services (with an accent on eco-friendly tourism) are abundant. If you’re a student, check out discounts on flights and tours.
You could try a homestay and absorb far more Tican culture than you would in a hotel. Bell’s Home Hospitality is one service which arranges for bed and breakfast with a safe, visitor-friendly family.
For a novel way to cut costs, consider a “dental vacation.” Because dental fees are far lower than they are in the US and dentists well trained, some travelers opt to have root canals and the like dealt with in Costa Rica. They end up saving as much as the cost of their ticket. Honest!