Discovering Costa Rica

Page 19

You have to be cautious about people who like to steal, but you must be extra careful with your

passport or personal identification documents. It is advisable to carry a certified photocopy of

your identification document instead of the original. Many people will make a copy and reduce it

in size so it will fit easily in a purse or wallet.

NEVER leave valuables in plain view in your car

Keep your windows up while at traffic lights or in very slow traffic in San José

When in San José or in slow traffic, do not leave anything valuable on the seat next to

you if the windows are open. A person can and will reach in and grab your items

Until you know how things work here, we urge you not to drive at night. In fact, it is

recommended not to drive at night until you know the route well

Security – Do’s

Have the security card given to you during your first trip handy at all times

Make photocopies of all personal documents (e.g. passport) and carry those with you at

all times. Leave originals in a safe place at home

Keep emergency numbers with you at all times. Memorize your company’s security

phone number, your Dwellworks Destination Services Consultant’s number, the Police’s

phone number, Private Ambulance numbers, INS numbers, and 911

Learn how to make collect calls using the 1110 operators. You may call collect from your

mobile phone

Always talk with a sense of purpose if you are lost. Do not behave as a lost or confused

person. Common sense is required at all times: do not wear jewelry, do not pull out and

show your wallet and do not carry too much money with you

Learn about basic safety measures in case of an earthquake. Compile a basic

emergency kit to keep handy (food, radio, batteries, water, etc.). Please check the safety

measures in case of an earthquake, included in this guide

Besides the normal route to get home, work, etc., take into consideration alternative

ways shown to you during the area tour

Inform your children how and with whom they may leave school

Stay in accredited hotels and tourist facilities

Always carry some local currency but not too much cash

Pay all services in Costa Rican colones or with credit or debit cards

Bargain if you are buying at street stalls. Do not show too much cash

Stay away from the following areas: Alajuelita, Hatillos, León XIII, San Sebastián, Villa

Esperanza de Pavas, La Carpio, Los Cuadros, and some areas on the south of San

José

It is recommended to install a security film to protect the entire car’s windows. Thus, if

someone breaks a window, the car cannot be entered