Special Travel Needs

Women

If you do welcome the amorous attentions of men, Costa Rica is heaven. The art of seduction is to Ticos a kind of national pastime: a sport and a trial of manhood. Men might hiss in appreciation from a distance and call out epithets such as guapa (pretty one), machita (for blondes), or mi amor. Be aware that many Ticos think gringas are an "easy conquista."

If you're not interested in love among the palms, unwanted attention can be a hassle. Pretend not to notice. Avoid eye contact. An insistent stare—dando cuervo or "making eyes"—is part of the game. You can help prevent these overtures by dressing modestly. Shorts, tube tops, or strapless sundresses in San José invite attention. Avoid deserted beaches, especially at night.

For info on Gay & Lesbian travel to Costa Rica click here!

Travelers With Disabilities:
Although Costa Rica is not as accessible by wheelchair as places in the United States, the country is making strides in this area. 

There is a wheelchair transport service called Vaya con Silla de Ruedas (Go with Wheelchairs) (506) 454-2810 that provides drivers in vans that accommodate up to three wheelchairs. This service can be used for private or group excursions, and is available 24 hours. The van makes scheduled trips to the Rainforest Aerial Tram, the Jungle Crocodile Safari, and tours of Sarchí. 

Although some hotels have rooms that are specially equipped for wheelchairs, many hotels, as well as restaurant bathrooms, are lacking the capability to accommodate wheelchairs. 

Senior Citizens:
Costa Rica can be an ideal travel destination for senior citizens. Although some popular activities here require you to be in good physical condition, there are many non-strenuous ways to enjoy Costa Rica as well. A few suggestions for those who are not in the best shape, or who just want to "take it easy" are the rainforest aerial tram in Braulio Carillo, the hot springs with volcano view in Fortuna, and the beach. Some beaches can be difficult to reach, but Manuel Antonio, Tamrindo, Nosara, and Playa Tambor are just a few of the beaches that are a quick flight away from San José.

The health care system in Costa Rica is the best in Latin America. Low cost health care makes Costa Rica a popular destination for those wanting or needing surgery. However, the best health care is centered around San José. If you are in one of the more remote areas of Costa Rica, you will need to rely on the Cruz Roja (Red Cross) services for minor emergencies. They will call in an air ambulance if needed. 

Although most of the hotels in Costa Rica do not offer discounts to seniors, there are a few large hotel chains throughout the country that do. Note that most of the hotels offering discounts are "high-end", and may still be more expensive than smaller hotels.

Students And Youths:
An International Student Identity Card could be the most valuable item in your wallet. The card entitles students 12 years and older to discounts on transportation, museum admission, and more. When purchased in the United States, ISIC even includes emergency medical coverage, and access to a 24-hour, toll-free emergency hotline. Students can obtain ISICs at any student union.

Traveling with Children:
Travel with children usually poses no special problems, and everything you need for younger children is readily available. Costa Ricans generally adore children and will dote on your youngsters. There are few sanitary or health problems to worry about. However, ensure that your child has vaccinations against measles and rubella (German measles), as well as any other inoculations your doctor advises. Bring cotton swabs, adhesive bandages, and a small first-aid kit with any necessary medicines for your child.

Baby foods and milk (radiated for longevity) are readily available in San José. Disposable diapers, however, are expensive (consider bringing cloth diapers; they're ecologically more acceptable). Bring baby wipes. If you plan to travel by car, bring your own child's car seat—they're not available for rental cars.

An increasing number of hotels and tour companies now feature children's facilities (amusements, entertainment, child care, etc.), and special attractions are planned. If your child is interested in nature, many of Costa Rica's attractions will be natural draws—the various butterfly farms, for instance, are fabulous for youngsters. So, too, is the Children's Museum, an interactive forum in the former penitentiary at the north end of Calle 4 in San José. It has workshops on weekend mornings as well as exhibits.