AM Costa Rica is reporting there’s been a decrease in visitors to Coast Rica for 2006. Further, internet statistics show a “decline in interest in Costa Rica”. online papers and e-zines are losing readership. “Tourist operators say business is off 35 percent”
What’s up with Costa Rica? Tourism officials there suggest several possible explanations for the decline in tourism: bad roads, crappy infrastructure, the softening of the housing market in the U.S. But talk to anyone who’s done time in Costa Rica, and the reason will hit you upside the head and demand your wallet.
On my last visit to san jose (’07) I was surprised by the up tick in violence and filth (I had traveled there in ‘06, ‘05 and ‘04). Sure, the downtown area (see picture) was still a nice place to hang out. It was still a cool 70 degrees, and all the wonderful architecture was still there. But danger lurked on many side streets. I was hassled everyday by somebody wanting money. It felt like every Costa Rican I met was on the grift.
In the last year I’ve noticed more and more refugees coming to Panama from Costa Rica. Intrigued, I decided to interview an expat who’s lived in Costa Rica for years. He’s in the process of getting his Panama passport. And he’s young, a savvy marketer, and college educated. Not the stereotypical frail, geezer-gringo unable to speak Spanish and deal with culture shock.
“So there’s crime in Costa Rica. Big deal. Isn’t crime a problem everywhere?”
Aaah… it’s the “Crime happens everywhere” argument. Sure it does. It just tends to happen more in Costa Rica. You cannot talk to five people without meeting someone who’s experienced crime (and not pansy crime). Stop believing the travel brochures and start using your eyes and ears. EVERY Tico you talk with will have a story about how they’ve been affected by robbery, violence or theft.
I talked to people in Palos Verdes, Torrance and Redondo Beach, California… and almost nobody had a story for me. (One guy actually, but it had happened several years ago). Sure, you read about stuff in the papers… but rarely do you meet someone who is affected by it personally.
But here in Costa Rica, it’s endemic. Even in the most “swanky” part of the country, Escazu, if you have money– then you probably live in a gated community with an armed guard with a shotgun. You (or your neighbors) probably have a guard dog, too.
This is not a normal way to live. It is a manner of living that will eventually take a psychic toll and leave the people of this country fearful and paranoid. (Hell, they already live in houses that look like prison cells, so maybe it’s too late?)
Sure, you can compare Costa Rica to Compton or Watts or Harlem and say, “Well, it’s still so much better here.”
Whatever. When I’m in the States, I can choose to live in a community where I can go for 40 years and never lock my front door– and never be affected by crime. Even in my years living in a Beach Community of Los Angeles, and five years in Austin– I’ve never known anyone (let alone a majority) of people to have been affected by so much crime.
There’s a saying the Ticos have here: The good people live in houses that look like jail cells (because of the bars on the windows, gates, front yards, metal doors, alarms, padlocks, etc.) … and the criminals roam the streets, freely.
In most parts of rural America, you can drive to the grocery store, leave your car window open and put your wallet on the dash– every day of the week– and nobody’s going to touch it. Why? It’s a different culture.
Try that here… in the “Switzerland of Latin America.” Gone in 60 seconds.
“OK, to be fair, we’ve got crime in Panama too.”
Look here’s a simple test: Drive around a better area of San Jose (Rhormoser, Pavos, Escazu) at night and see how many people with BMWs and Mercedes park their cars on the street, or in their driveway– without a gate and a guard. Now do the same in Panama City. What you’ll see in P.C. is that people do it– successfully– without getting their cars stolen.
Does crime happen in P.C.? Yes, crime happens everywhere. But it happens a lot more, here in Costa Rica. Try taking your toy poodle for a walk at 9 pm, alone, in Manhattan Beach, California. No problem. You can do it every night of the week for a month, and nobody will bother you. Do it here and I guarantee you’re going to find trouble.
“Yes, I was out last night at 11pm and there were couples and single women on the steet. I feel very safe in El Cangrejo Panama.”
Hey, even in Bogota, Colombia, there are good parts and bad parts. But in the good parts, you can generally feel pretty safe walking around at night. Not so, here in Costa Rica. Look– some if some folks like costa rica, then fine. Enjoy life. But let’s not pretend this is a rose garden without thorns, or that Crime happens everywhere, so pura vida. — when in fact, it’s a heck of a lot more dangerous (even in the good areas) here, compared to the good areas in many, many other countries.
For those of you who don’t live here yet… make sure you factor in all elements before moving. It’s not the “peaceful paradise” the tourism ministry would have you believe. It is a life of constant vigilance, if you wish to live a regular, normal life. (If you live like a hippie at the beach, far away from good hospitals, restaurants, infrastructure, etc… then go for it!)
“Funny that. my friends and I were living like hippies in Pavones, Dominical, Mal Pais, and still, anything that was not locked up, like our towels and flip flops, would get stolen.”
It’s a problem. Costa Rica’s still a great place to live… but security must be a constant concern. I hope this changes in the future, and the government will get serious and get it’s act together. But until then… Buyer Beware.
I think the crime here is an aspect of the culture. There are many, many parts of Asia where the people are (on average) much poorer than your average Tico– but do not engage in this level of crime.
“So what do you think of the websites promoting this false image of Costa Rica as tropical paradise - for example, the Escape Aritst?”
Yeah, I’m familiar with Roger Gallo. His marketing is very good. Albeit bullshit. “Costa Rica– it’s all sunshine, smiles and ice cream. Not to mention… cheap beer!” — Yeah, until your 70 year-old wife breaks her hip on one of the pot holes, a transvestite takes her purse while she’s unconscious, the paramedic feels her up on the way to the hospital, and the hospital itself catches fire and needs to be evacuated, while half the patients are stuck inside because some moron locked the exit doors. Pura Vida, mother fucker.
Um … to be fair, it’s not all bad - I understand the coffee’s good.
Yeah - you see what costa rican coffee does to a guy’s blood pressure?
Find Costa Rica real estate for sale in the Costa Rica real estate classifieds
Man– now THAT’S a good article!
I think this one really proves, once and for all, you’re ready for that pulitzer.
Hee hee hee.
Seriously– Good job. It’s nice to find somebody with the balls to publish this stuff.
Comment by Raul — January 16, 2007 @ 9:23 am
lol how did i know you were going to say that?
Comment by cojito — January 16, 2007 @ 11:33 am
This is a bit of a shocker; I’ve been in and out of Costa Rica on ships for 15 plus years. I never had any problem with muggers in Puntarenas (the port) although; normally I proceed as if trouble is just around the corner. It is a place that has certainly lost its luster. They built a modern cruise ship dock and terminal there, but the tourists are bused off to different destinations (San Jose and the rainforest tours and hotels) and rarely do you see a tourist walking around in Puntarenas. I have wandered around half-drunk at all hours of the night waiting for the water taxi to take me back to the ship and I’ve never had a problem. Just lucky I suspect.
In San Jose, during the day I’ve walked and shopped in the downtown area and never had any problems. At night is different, a few locals have told me to watch it, especially near the parks and alleys…common sense stuff.
You’ve got to watch it in Panamá City too. Normally, I stay in the banking district and even though typically there are security guards at the banks at night, there are still bad guys loitering around the ATM machines. I’ve been shadowed more than once. These guys can be working independently or they may be part of a mugging scam set up with the security guards’ knowledge. I hate to say that, being that Panamá City is one of my favorite places, but most of these guards only earn about 5-10 dollars per day. Best to walk around with a buddy or two. During the day the Cathedral area on Via España can be a hangout for hoods looking for gringos (the captain and another officer got jumped at knife-point there a few years ago). I’d avoid the guys handing out tourist brochures on Via España as well. Typically they are hired by the day, they promote ecotourism, canal trips, etc. but they also try to give you ad hoc “city tours†or direct you into seedy bars where so-called beautiful women await you. Once, I got hustled out of twenty bucks, long story but it is best to just avoid these guys and keep walking (even if they do speak english). Keep a constant eye on your refreshing beverage while in the bars and clubs in Panamá. A buddy of mine, a former Army MP in Panamá, was playing pool with two chicas and a guy at the El Pavo Pub (British and American hang out in the banking district); he felt dizzy, walked outside with these people, passed out and when he woke up he was lying in the street with his wallet gone. They dropped sedatives in his beer and mugged him after he passed out. It’s a good idea to put a napkin over that cocktail.
On Via España in front of the Hotel Continental, I did get into a fight with a couple of pickpockets during festival two years ago. They didn’t get any of my belongings, I did manage to land a few punches and the little bastards bloodied up my nose a bit before I decided to get the hell out of there. Generally, I think the festival is fun, but stay out of the big crowds around the bandstands. The thugs are looking for gringos to mug. I’ve been in and out of Panamá for about 25 years; generally it is safe and a fun place to be. I’ve only had a few problems but it is a poor country with crime so it’s best to keep a constant look out.
Comment by jim — January 16, 2007 @ 4:16 pm
lol - your comment’s almost as long as my interview jim. well done.
well, puntarenas was rather sleepy when i visited two years back. not many gringos to rob back then. i’m guessing the increase in crime is in areas where gringos settle in.
i don’t disagree with what you say about panama. like any city - it’s got crime. you need to be careful if you’re out clubbing late at night. i lived in boston 8 years. never had a problem. but i had friends who were mugged. i learned that to live in a city i need to always be careful about what i do, where i go, and at what time.
Comment by cojito — January 16, 2007 @ 5:17 pm
“They dropped sedatives in his beer and mugged him after he passed out. It’s a good idea to put a napkin over that cocktail.”
– I prefer to put a condom on my cocktail. It’s much harder for them to slip a sedative in my drink when we’re having safe sex. And usually the beer gets knocked over, anyway.
Comment by Raul — January 17, 2007 @ 6:53 pm
Agree. Please see the last Tico Times (6 murders in a week including West SJ). Think it is because the police force there has gotten way too lax and the inflation is out of control). If a Gringo does not want to buy the coffee anymore because it is more expensive than the US what about the poor Ticos who make like $300/month. I’m not just talking about the supermarkets in good areas. Same price at a chain store in 3 diff. locations. Police are proly lax because they aren’t paid shit either. The CR Govt. needs to open their pocket books and pay the police more and/or fund more policeforce.
Check out Colombia. Really bad in the bad areas but in the good areas with military with weapons everywhere relatively safe.
Comment by Dave Miami — April 11, 2007 @ 8:47 pm
yeah dave, crime’s gotten bad in costa rica. i just got back from san jose. when i go, i always stay in barrio amon. very safe. 4 years and never a problem. but this year they had to add armed guards at the hotel.
i still like san jose. and i’d never want to live in a police state. but they need to get it together.
Comment by cojito — April 11, 2007 @ 10:30 pm
Great article.Been here two years and had three burglaries so far.I’ve had it and after I have sold my properties the motto is “get he hell out…”
Comment by Norbert — April 18, 2007 @ 6:32 pm
Thoughts on Costa Rica: When I first visited San Jose in 1980, and for several years after that, I could walk anywhere in San Jose at anytime, even at 3:00AM. No problem, not a hint. But, by my last visit in 1989, things had changed: There were shanty towns of very poor Nicaraguan refugees from the Contra wars. (Hmm. All those poor Nicaraguan kids raised there would be in their teens or older now!!!) The poorer Costa Ricans began to notice the rich gringo tourists that started to pour in. During my last visit, I remember a very desperate appearing little kid selling flowers. We decided that he would probably be beaten if he did not sell all of his flowers. Confrontational crime became the norm, rather than the exception. CR was a great place at one time, but not anymore.
Comment by Michael — May 25, 2007 @ 4:21 pm
yeah, it’s changed. and it gets worse every year. every year i go back and it’s dirtier, edgier. what did you think of colombia?
Comment by cojito — May 26, 2007 @ 12:43 pm
You really can’t blame this on poverty.
There are many places in the world where you can travel that are much poorer, yet safer.
What you can blame it on is “Pura Vida” — which is Costa Rican spanish for “We don’t give a shit.”
Comment by Raul — May 26, 2007 @ 1:15 pm
I share the author’s observations. His story parallels mine. I visited CR from 1995 to 2002 and each year the crime was increasing. My plan was to move from the the Los Angeles west side (I lived at one time in Manhattan Bch) to CR. I finally got mugged in San Jose. I wasn’t in the wrong place at the wrong time. I now live in Panama. There are many expats here that previously lived in CR. Almost all left because of bad crime experiences. I really wanted to like CR, but I just met too many people there that have been mugged, then my number came up. No mas!
Comment by pantah — May 28, 2007 @ 9:12 pm
It’s true , i was in costa rica a few days ago and I will never go back . I felt that is not a safe place to be.
Comment by Roger — May 31, 2007 @ 4:50 pm
I visited Puerto Viejo de Talamanca last year. I loved it but there was a slight edge. My neighbour just came back from there yesterday. He visited a friend with the intention of staying. He said the physical attacks on people are so out of control he left in disgust. He is not the only person to say this. I also know of someone in England who said he could no longer stand the place. I am vey sad about this as I loved the beauty of the area and found most of the people friendly.
Comment by dawn — June 26, 2007 @ 10:54 am
I just returned from San Jose. There are dozens of chapolinas on the streets day and night.If you don’t give them a 100 collon per day you better watch your ass when entering your appartment at night. The cops are also shaking down gringo’s looking for drugs and cash. They are all on the take. They intimidate you untill you give them something.There usual excuse to hassle you is that you don’t carry your pasport. They claim that a photo coppy is not adaquate enough.
The chapolinas smoke crack right in front of the cops and the cops look the other way. THERE IS NO MONEY THERE. I think the cops are worse than the chapolinas.
I might try Columbia. Believe it or not I think it is much safer. Buenas AL
Comment by al bladykas — July 8, 2007 @ 1:16 am
I just returned from several weeks in Costa Rica. I enjoy the Puerto Viejo area. It seems that there “had been” several incidents of backpack snatching episodes…especially in the Cocles Beach area. Tourist surfers leaving valuables on blankets, packpaks being snatched from bicycle baskets. A few months ago…there were a few dozen incidents of this sort. However, I understand they caught the guy…he was from Limon. He’s no longer seen in the area.
Three weeks ago, I witnessed a young Swiss girl standing on the roadside bleeding from the leg. She had been pushed off her bicycle, and then had the bicycle stolen, along with her backpak. When she fell, she landed in gravel…and cut her hand, knee and foot. The manager of her hotel was summoned, and he took her to the clinic. The police showed up…and searched for the 15 year old local boy.
Two days later, I ran into the hotel manager who told me that the police caught the MULTI-OFFENDER…and the girl was able to identified him. I asked what the cops do with a kid like that. I was told that they cut his arm and shot him in the leg.
Although I was shocked…I believe this kid will not be stealing in the near future…nor, would I assume, will his close friends. And, then I started to think about how our system in the US would have handled this problem. Court, Lawyers, Jail, comes out worse…cost tax payers plenty…and he, most likely, according to statics, becomes a greater threat to society.
Comment by John — July 8, 2007 @ 9:43 am
Give the man a Cigar! John, you rang the bell, and it gets worse all the time.
Comment by Anonymous — July 8, 2007 @ 2:29 pm
John…I lived in CR for 3 years. I wouldnt believe what the hotel manager told you. Yes…they are a bunch of theives up there. And they would not shoot or harm the boy for thievery. They would rather shake down gringos. He might be detained for a couple days and then he’s back out on the street. I saw many incidences of this when living there. You were probably told that to make you feel safer and more protected…so you’ll come back and stay at the hotel again. Just my 2 colones worth…
Comment by Tman — July 9, 2007 @ 11:12 am
I was referring to the “system in the US”
Comment by Anonymous — July 9, 2007 @ 12:24 pm
who is talking about the USA system here? CR stands for “Costa Rica”.
Comment by Tman — July 10, 2007 @ 10:35 am
Nobody.
But if a swiss girl gets pushed off her bike in Costa Rica, didn’t you know that it’s America’s fault because of “Bushitler?”
I hate you, hippies.
Anyway– I completely agree with Tman. There’s no way in hell that the Ticos would have shot him, for this type of offense. They don’t even do that to convicted rapists and murderers.
Maybe in Dubai, but not in CR.
Comment by Raul — July 10, 2007 @ 3:10 pm
read reply #16 above and you’ll see who is talking about the US.
Comment by Anonymous — July 10, 2007 @ 7:51 pm
raul; It’s not bu-shitler, it’s king george, check out this link-
http://www.globalresearch.ca/index.php?context=va&aid=5853
I agree with you, I don’t think they would have shot the kid, but it makes good public safety propaganda to say they did.
Comment by fastfreddie — July 10, 2007 @ 8:20 pm
I live in the mountains of Heredia, Costa Rica. It seems like a safe enough farm area, and I’ve always thought people were going overboard everywhere in fear of robberies. But last night some crackhead went into my yard, tried to break into my car, couldn’t get in so he pulled the glass out of a window, broke into the house, found my wife’s purse took the money and the keys, then opened the car and took my iPod and a dvd player. I’m not feeling all that safe here anymore.
Comment by costa rican gringo — August 23, 2007 @ 1:19 pm
Wow guys, thanks for the info. I always thought CR would be pretty lightweight crime-wise compared to some places I’ve been: Peru and Bolivia.
Darn, I was just about ready to take my wife and 2 young daughters for a laid back 2 months based out of escazu next winter. I had been pretty full of “jism” about Costa Rica. I mean more and more pumped every day! But now, I don’t know. . .
My chilean wife and I are searching really hard for a good LA country to winter in and possibly live in eventually. We spent many years in Chile, but had decided that the Chilean people are essentially such incredible jerks that we would look for another latin country to be our adopted second country (outside of the USA).
Peruvians and Bolivians are warm, fantastic, gringo-friendly people, but street crime is bad and getting worse, especially in Peru of course.
O darn, it looks like I might have to go back to Chile, after all, and listen to Chilean neo-nazi morons tell me why they are supposedly the world’s best country and that they will eventually conquer the world. Better than getting mugged in CR, I s’pose.
Comment by Confused Gringo — September 10, 2007 @ 9:45 pm
21 years and I still like it.
I don’t hang out with dipshits from The Empyre tho..
Comment by Blammo — September 23, 2007 @ 10:51 am
Confused Gringo, you could do a lot worse than consider Panama for your winter vacation.
I went there a few years ago for work and have returned regularly. I’m now looking to buy a house there and emigrate from the UK.
It’s a great city with plenty to do. On the whole the people are friendly and you can get to decent beach resorts within a couple of hours. We regularly head down to the all-inclusive Decameron resort on the Pacific coast for a short mid-week break.
Don’t get me wrong, it’s the same as any major city, there are areas you most definately avoid but then there are areas that you feel totally safe and that are family orientated…..just take a trip down the Causeway on any Sunday afternoon and you’ll see it packed with families from all cultures.
You can travel anywhere in the city for US$2 in a cab…although make sure the driver is aware you know the costs. Last year when I was back a cab driver tried to charge me US$10 for a ride half way across the city but when I started to get out the cab, telling him I wasn’t a tourist, he quickly changed the fare! A couple of notes on cabs though…try to use radio cabs whenever possible as there have been a few cases of “cab muggings”. Try to get a cab that has it’s windows rolled up (it normally means it’s got aircon). You’ll pay a little extra if you get a cab from outside an hotel.
If you don’t consider Panama as an option, then good luck wherever you do decide to take your vacation.
Comment by Nomadbhoy — September 24, 2007 @ 3:49 am
Everything you say is 100% true. I have been living in Costa Rica (Mal Pais) for the last 2 years and EVERYONE I KNOW has been robbed one way or another. Unfortunately last night one of my friends was nearly killed by two guys with guns that broke in his house, they did not give any warnings at all, as soon as he spotted them they just started shooting at him, thank god he had a shout gun and was able to return fire and scare them off. When he got the gun a few months ago I laughed at him and said he was over reacting at the petty theft, well guess what I just called my lawyer and asked him to start the process of buying me a gun. I am sick of people saying PURA VIDA, it’s such bullshit, the same person that waves at you and says PURA VIDA is the same MOFO that will rob you that night!
Comment by John — September 30, 2007 @ 5:01 pm
Hola from Costa Rica,
I have lived here for 5 years. Thus far I have had a ladder and a car stolen. When I was in Dallas, Texas a couple of months ago someone stole a guys motorcycle in seconds while he went in to buy a soda so I guess it happens everywhere. The problem in Costa Rica is the inflation is super high and the people are paid really low wages. Personally I would and do have security anywhere I live. It is no better in Panama unless it is an island. A friend from here was robbed in Panama City last month by 3 guys with knives. It boils down to luck sometimes…………..
Comment by debora — December 13, 2007 @ 4:08 pm
welcome to the real world Princess!!!
Comment by craig — June 15, 2008 @ 10:55 pm
Interesting comments on Costa Rica’s crime problem. I lived in Costa Rica many years ago, before crime was ever a problem — in late 50’s and 60’s. I still have family there, but have not been back for a visit since early 80’s. It was starting to look somewhat different then, but my understanding from is that it is really a differnt place there now — dirty and crime ridden. That is main reason I have not wanted to go back, in spite of fam. and friends urging me to. I would rather remember the place as it was then. A wonderful place to grow up where there was little, if any, crime. I used to be able to ride my bike through the coffee plantation trails with my friends without fear of anyone bothering us. What a pity the place has gone bad. It was a lovely country once.
Comment by Anonymous — June 17, 2008 @ 11:06 pm
My husband and I are considering leaving America for Coast Rica or Panama. After reading this article and numerous others we are leaning toward Panama. I have a concern with safety because we have our three young sons with us. We are looking for a nice place to live with a tropical climat that isn’t as pricey as the Virgin Islands. Are there any specific cities in Panama that are safer than others? Any advice would be much appreciated. Thanks.
Comment by Amanda — March 4, 2009 @ 1:07 pm
Hey couldn’t agree more.
I was robbed twice in my first visit to Costa Rica this Year. I tried my best to be careful, I am in my early twenties, female, speak Spanish and never went out on my own. I was even told by Ticos that I looked like a Tica. But you have to be super vigilant in Costa Rica. Don’t believe the bollocks its beautiful, safe and relaxed. Landscapes are beautiful, but the cities are anything but. I am very glad I went but highly disappointed with the lies I heard prior to my trip. It IS NOT safe at all. One Tica lady told me that as soon as you step foot into San Jose, your being watched.
Comment by Anonymous — April 12, 2009 @ 4:15 pm
All these articles are mostly correct. The ONLY DETAIL IS these crimes that you are commenting on and the nationality of the people is 98% WRONG!
First of all I want to mention that as one of you said a few years back things were a little better compared to now. It’s NOT becuase of ‘gringos’ going there more. FACT: One-third of the 30,000 Colombians living in Costa Rica are refugees. in 2000 Costa Rica granted assylum to Colombian refugees. Out of 500,000 there are 10,000 in Costa Rica from the yr. 2000!
Most Costa Ricans are students and true professionals - The house maids or ‘muchachas’ of even the poorest home are either from Nicaragua, El Salvador and Colombia. Most refugees aren’t given work by NATIVES becuase they aren’t trusted -stereotyped ‘ladrones’. So when you don’t have work - you FIND AND FEND for yourself. You figure because you are in Costa Rica the person who mugs or kills is a NATIVE. Not so!! Read the paper and see what that person is…OH NOW WHAT? Cat got your tongues? A lot of the refugees from Nicaragua were doing the same back in 1990 - never forgot when I was there back then all the kids were being told to get indoors early because the NICAS were coming out soon and it’s dangerous. So NOW they have Colombian refugees who GET SENT there and THEN get followed by the “sicarios” (paid gunmen) who follow them there from Colombia. So what do you think is happening to Costa Rica’s years past reputation? It’s getting tarnished by people like YOU who don’t tell the WHY’S AND people who are corrupt WHO GO THERE FOR HELP BUT TURN OUT TO f*** THEM IN THE A**….TRUE NATIVES OF COSTA RICA DON’T DESERVE THIS KIND OF CRAP. THAT’S WHAT THEY GET FOR BEING NICE. OR should I say STUPID. You’re right the Government is at fault bringing in all these refugees without enough true protection. Police are very laid back because years past there was NO NEED TO GET TOUGH - for what? BUT NOW THIS MAKES NO SENSE! They need to send them to Cuba not Costa Rica. AND THAT’S WHYYYY CRIME IS UPPPP IN THE CITY AND WILL CONTINUE TO GO UP!!
Comment by Veronica Shmit — May 27, 2009 @ 1:38 pm
By the way this is why most States and Countries in the world get the crime rather than in inner towns.
The non-natives rome in cities because it’s easier to grab someone Reason:(more people, tighter crowd) or something is easier to snatch and the theif gets lost within the crowd. And there IS ‘REGULAR LIFE’ IN OTHER PARTS of Costa Rica’ other than nasty San Jose. And you don’t need to be a ‘HIPPIE LIVING ON THE BEACH’ They need to get these REFUGEES out and that’s pretty much IMPOSSIBLE. My sentiments goes out to the Natives. It will never be the same in San Jose AGAIN.
Comment by Veronica Shmit — May 27, 2009 @ 2:01 pm
One thing I didn’t mention about the description one of you so called ticos wrote about Costa Rica being ‘dirty and crime ridden’…you are wrong! This crap is not in the beautiful mountians and natural beaches or the facinating volcanos or the peaceful coffee fields…no my friend- IT’S IN SAN JOSE THE CAPITAL - THE CITY. THAT’S WHERE THIS MESS IS HAPPENING. Costa Rica is STILL A BEAUTIFUL PEACEFUL COUNTRY. And your car won’t get stolen in any other place other than San Jose and who the heck wants to live in the city? For that case move your ass to New York! People who go to CR to live look for tranquility not crazy city life…hellloooo. The bars on the windows are in most foreign countries in the cities even in the US. in CT some house even have them - they’re fancy bars but bars nonetheless! You all are making it grimy and it’s not even like that…but better for the Ticos the less grimy people the better. Maybe if you all stay out it’ll get better again in the City. So spread the word. Stay out! go to Cuba or Colombia -or Panama it’s much better…yeah.
Comment by Veronica Shmit — June 12, 2009 @ 9:06 am
let tourism go down and the interest to go away as the reports show! We were a simple country and did for ourselves without an army or help from anyone. Yeah tourists spend money but we don’t need the littering, the drunks, the after-mess, before the ’so called interest’ that’s when our city was good. After people started coming to visit - the city went to pot! So stay the F*** out! It’s not us that’s making it dirty - it’s the people coming IN!! U SEE? IT’S YOU ALL! And the neighboring Countries too. If your country is so much better and you’re so patriotic to your country GO THE F*** BACK AND STAY THERE! NO ONE ASKED YOU TO COME IN - YOU NEED TO BE IN CR - WE DON’T NEEEED YOU - YOU NEED US. SO GET OUT! GO BACK TO YOUR SO CLEAN CITIES. GO BACK TO NEW YORK, COLOMBIA, NICARAGUA, PANAMA, SALVADOR, AND ALL THOSE OTHER PLACES THAT ARE SOOOOOO MUCH BETTER! AND DON’T COME BACK!!
Comment by Veronica Shmit — June 12, 2009 @ 9:19 am
Veronica, a couple of things:
littering in Costa Rica is mostly done by locals, guaro is consumed mostly by locals, crime is mostly perpetrated by locals.
i do agree with you on one thing - yes, absolutely, we should “let tourism go down.” no one needs to visit Costa Rica. Panama, Nicaragua and Colombia are cheaper, safer, and far more interesting. AND the people are much nicer.
Comment by Cojito — June 12, 2009 @ 7:35 pm
Is this guy that warped or does he have property in Panama he hasn’t been able to offload ? Costa Rica and Panama both have lots to offer with neither being perfect nor claiming to be. I have spent time in Panama and outside the gates of a gated community or on the main street in Panama City I find I would much rather be in a similar situation just about anywhere in Costa Rica. Thats not to say I do not love Panama but this character has some kind of alterior motive, which is pretty easy to see from the way the artice flows. Maybe he was thrown or chased out of the country for something most normal people would not be involved in. There is trouble in both countries for those who look for it as with most countries inclusive of the US irregardless of where you are at. I cannot tell you this dude is all wrong because as I said trouble lies in wait just about everywhere I have ever been if you put yourself into a situation you shouldn’t. I can tell you that the claims being made are absolutley crazy just in the fact that he plays the Panama is better routine everytime he spouts off another tale of “murder and mayhem” in Costa Rica. I would live in either country and happen to own property in both so in a way I do. I am careful as I am in the US or where ever I am. I have property in Jamaica as well and have never had a problem there either. Jamaica is another great place and as well a little tougher to relax in but nevertheless worth the trip. As wth most places you learn a little each time you go and stay true to your school per se. I as of late visit, both for pleasure and for business, Costa Rica more than either Jamaica and or Panama. I would say Jamaica is and or can be the most dangerous but often walk through the city of Montego Bay and as well Kingston in both the daylight and night time hours with no other problems than the typical desire for the native people to get you to buy something. I never carry more than 50 dollars on my person and carry a copy of my passport only. I hope all those that visit any of the above places can appreciate the opportunity to get see a different peice of the world. I would highly recommend any or all three. Jamaica was mentioned only because it as well has been given a bad rap in a similar fashion due mostly to the peoples pushiness. All in all as far as the article goes I would think of this article as pure rubbish and poorly written.
Comment by SellingShittoU — June 21, 2009 @ 8:45 pm
it was an interview. just one expat’s opinion. you don’t have to agree with it. or the Tico newspapers reporting the uptick in crime and violence.
i feel safe in either country. but i much prefer Panama.
Comment by Cojito — June 21, 2009 @ 10:50 pm
Who the hell was the interview with for Gods sake, the guys building and trying to sell out every square inch of Balboa Ave. I know you are doing a job/your job and all is well with that. I know there is crime in Costa Rica as I know it existis in Panama, the US, and anywhere else in the world. It will always be worse where ever there exists such a large disparity between the haves and the have nots. If the belief is that crime in Costa Rica is “worse” than other neighboring countries it would be attributable to the fact that tourism and real estate sales as well have been greater than the others leading to more and or easier opportunity for those who would harm and or steal from others. The reference to homes that look like jail cells is a bit absurd as well as the reference to the need for “gated communities”. A gated community has many reasons for walls with Privacy and Insurance requirments being the most important, at least in both Panama and Costa Rica. Bad people exist and that sucks no matter where you are plain and simple. There will always be people who would steal from and or hurt others including their own family memebers. I fear for my children today in my own neighborhood here in the US if I do not know there where abouts every single minute of the day. My house is locked as well as my vehicles. I want it to be different but it ain’t, not here and not in either country we now speak about. The plain truth is that we need to be careful where ever we are whether it be a vacation and or our permanent “place of residence”. The person you interviewed for this article would have us believe that there is something in the water in Costa Rica, which has resulted in many or most of it’s population bearing side effects leading to a life of crime. George Burns (great guy) put it best in “OH GOD” when he explained to a small child that you cannot have one without the other refferring to opposites such as hot with cold, happy with sad, and ultimately good with evil. I love Central America and both Panama and Costa Rica have lots to offer, some things different somethings similar. I think both will eventually get better but at this time find both great places to visit but in all honesty Costa Rica a better place to live.
Comment by SellingShittoU — June 22, 2009 @ 7:35 am
i agree with much of what you say, but better is a relative term.
Costa Rica its more expensive. does that make it better? not to me. i couldn’t afford to buy a house or apartment in San Jose. but Panama City? no problem.
and crime? crime in Panama was modest when i first wrote up this interview. i hear/read that it’s getting worse now that more money’s moving thru the country. but i lived in Panama City for over 5 years (walking the streets daily) and never experienced any problems.
now i have been ripped off a couple of times in Costa Rica. also, Panama’s use of the America dollar means i never lose money on exchange rates.
then there’s the people. the people i meet in Panama are much much nicer. not only nicer, but the women are hotter. they tend to be darker, leaner, less likely to stick you with a knife. that is, unless you try to take away their winning lottery ticket. :-)
also, the country’s less touristy. and to me the infrastructure in Panama seems better. there are more, and better roads, more reliable electricity, cable and phone etc. and i’m a slave to a dependable high speed internet connection.
on the flip side i’d guess the legal system in Panama is more corrupt. though i did buy and sell an apartment in Panama with minimal issues.
in the end, i think it just depends on what you like, how much you want to spend. if you prefer Costa Rica that’s cool with me. i just think it’s a bit over-hyped.
Comment by Cojito — June 22, 2009 @ 6:07 pm
I agree with the women being hotter and better built in Panama. I as well agree with the fact that there at this time in Panama, again depending on where you are, a better infrastructure. The countries themselves are much different however as far as the lay of the land making Panama a bit easier to develop an infrastructure. Panama at one point was or appeared to be almost clear cut for the grazing of livestock which kind of sucked. I like the fact that Costa Rica is wilder and untamed and this has worked well for growth in tourism. Both Countries have had problems, like most will with any new “gold rush” type development, with environmental issues such as Panama with Red Frog Beach (and others) as well as Costa Rica and several developments along the ocean in Guanacaste. Panama’s Boquette and Bocas Del Toro are both great places as well. Panama is 7 to 10 degrees hotter with less of the tropical breezes you get in Costa Rica. Like I said there are reasons to like them both and I do. I was simply disagreeing with the crime issue being any different and or better in Panama. I have not been bothered in either and in both have changed a possibly bad situation into a handshake by not blowing my stack and or accepting the challenge thrown my way due to a women I was with and or being a stronger than normal guy. The same happens here in the US but it can be scarier and end up messier in a foreign country. All in All I enjoy both and beleive that if not for borders it would be little more than driving between two neighboring states here in the US. I really wouldn’t know the difference.
Comment by SellingShittoU — June 22, 2009 @ 8:09 pm
littering, guaro, crime IS NOT DONE ‘MOSTLY’ BY LOCALS. I gave you some websites to READ you gave me NOTHING. I Read the local paper - regarding crime in the city ONE place out of many towns that Costa Rica has and the crime is documented and statistics are documented and MOST OF THE CRIMES AS YOU SAY ARE NOT NATIVES…LOCALS MEANING PEOPLE WHO LIVE THERE BUT THEY ARE NOT COSTA RICANS BY BIRTH! dumb dumb THEY ARE LOCALS NOWWW FROM OTHER PLACED COUNTRIES. MAJORITY OF THE CRIME is from struggling ‘placed’ people from neighboring contries. If you read much you would KNOW that. Littering, and drunks we can’t document unless you go around AND account for them all. Is that something you do??? DUMB DUMB. You are judging an entire country by one city! Like I said if you want to live in a dirty city go to any city in the US why go to San Jose? Most people who go to Costa Rica to live go for the peacefulness they think is there. So why pick a noisey city? COMMON SENSE tells you city life is not peaceful- FOR THAT GO BACK TO NEW YORK CITY. You don’t see drunks and littering outside of that one place San Jose…you don’t. I mean is that all you know of Costa Rica…San Jose??? Obviously it is. Please you don’t know enough but a sorry ass opinion and no facts so you need to give up your journalism skills and go back to Panama…yeah. Go back or stay there which ever. Who cares.
Comment by veronica — June 26, 2009 @ 2:58 pm
And the reason why it’s so expensive is so cheap people like you don’t buy anything and finally go back to a low quality cheap Country. You seemed so angry and hung up on one city - something MUST HAVE happened and you try to bring the entire land down based on one city/area. Another fact: Chile and Costa Rica are the ONLY two countries in the WORLD that haven’t been effected by the ‘recession’ in the WORLDDDD. OKAY? You didn’t know that either did you? Oh maybe it’s because we are too busy stealing and killing and sooo poor, like you say, and we are sooo crime ridden that other countries look to us to send you all to live in CR and Chile to get you out of the ’so called’ peacful countries you come from???uh NOT-it’s to get you out of the crap drug/crime/MURDERERS OUT TO GET YOUR DUMB ASSES. EVEN ‘NATIVES’ FROM COSTA RICA LOOK TO GET OUT OF THE CITY - I LIVE IN THE SUBURBS EVEN IN THE US! COMMON SENSE…ONLY THE EXTEMES LIVE IN CITIES-DOESN’T MATTER WHAT COUNTRY. EITHER THE VERY WEALTHY OR THE VERY POOR LOOKING TO MAKE A FAST BUCK. People with some kind of common sense opt for suburban towns. -when looking for peace and quiet. I mean what is wrong with you? This is all common sense. COMMON SENSE. I wouldn’t judge New York on New York City/Manhattan?! I know there are other towns-BEAUTIFUL TOWNS IN NEW YORK - who the heck wants to live in the CITY?? Only a knuckle head with no choice. Or like I said a very well off person who NEEDS TO BE RIGHT SMACK IN THE CITY. BEYONCE, JAY-Z? Donald Trump??? Prostitutes?? Ummm I am wealthy but my choice is not the city to sleep or live in. It’s to do business only….I wouldn’t judge California by L.A either. Or Florida by Miami. Or any place for that matter by the frickin city…you are way OOFFF JUDGEMENT DUDE.
Comment by veronica — June 26, 2009 @ 3:18 pm
Cojito?? That means limpy - did you get beat up that you are now ‘cojito’ or is it slang for coji-to-do as in cojer todo?
Translated: I took everything.
Since you couldn’t get in on the crime and couldn’t take everything you wanted you a now a bitter man.
too funny…take a joke. just kidding now. but the rest above this one I MEANT
Comment by veronica — June 26, 2009 @ 3:27 pm
Veronica, i think you summed it up perfectly when you wrote:
“GO THE F*** BACK AND STAY THERE! NO ONE ASKED YOU TO COME IN - YOU NEED TO BE IN COSTA RICA - WE DON’T NEEEED YOU.”
you really didn’t need to say anything else. i heard you loud and clear. but since you’re back, and you still sound angry, i should probably mention this was an INTERVIEW. these were not my words. nor did i author the many articles about Tico crime that can be found in the local newspapers almost daily.
if you’re curious about me, i can tell you i’ve traveled up and down both coasts of CR. i would never judge Costa Rica by San Jose. that would be silly. besides, i really like San Jose.
let’s see: i’ve witnessed locals drunk on guaro (i was told it was part of the culture - and i drank my share of guaro too), locals tossing trash from bus and car windows (many many times), locals stealing wet towells from our clothes line and sandals from the porch, locals pumping raw sewage into rivers, local cops asking for bribes, i’ve been overcharged in local eateries, harassed by local thugs in the street …
need i go on? let me repeat, i like Costa Rica and San Jose - but i’m beginning to dislike you. i mean, i get it already. i’m dumb, you’re smart. Costa Rica is shiny and wonderful, anything bad was probably done by outsiders, and we should all just stay the fuck away.
Comment by Cojito — June 26, 2009 @ 7:40 pm
did I get lost on the www, or is your last writting the application to balbina in dec of 08?
Comment by rb — July 5, 2009 @ 4:34 pm
Well when you hang in places that you shouldn’t, drink with drunks and think that you shouldn’t be ’selective’ when it comes to people and places you are very naive. Oh and NOOOW YOU ACTUALLY LIKE COSTA RICA - when you ‘recommended’ other’s to go elsewhere because of YOUR BAD LUCK. NOOOW THAT I say to stay the FUCK out then you ACT like I came with that out of no where! You were the one complaining on how BAD IT IS YOU ARE THE ONE commenting on all the crap that goes on in the CITY, SAN JOSE, on how unless you don’t want to have accomadations and be close to civilization or whatever mumbo jumbo you spit out San Jose is pretty much the only place to find life outside of being a beach bum elsewhere. WHICH IS NOT TRUE. YOU NEVER MENTION ANYTHING OR ANYOTHER TOWN IN YOUR ‘INTERVIEW’ AND HOW PANAMA IS THEE SAFE ZONE COMPARED TO DIRTY COSTA RICA! SO YOU ARE THE ONE MOST DON’T LIKE! BECAUSE YOUR SO CALLED INTERVIEW IS BASED ON YOUUUURRRR EXPERIENCE! AND YES I AM ANGRY BECAUSE YOU NEED TO GET FACTS ON TOURISTS THAT GO AND THEIR EXPERIENCE GOOD AND BAD, ON PEOPLE OOOOUTSIDE SAN JOSE ON HOW THEY LIVE GOOD AND BAD. NOT YOUUURRR DUMB ASS NIGHTS OUT WITH BUMS!! NOT ASHAMED TO BE ANGRY BECAUSE I VOICE MY OPINION WHEN I SEE INJUSTICE. AND A RUDE SO CALLED INTERVIEW BASED ON THE BAD ONLY TELLING PEOPLE TO GO ELSEWHERE WHEN THERE IS SO MUCH GOOD THERE. DID YOU WATCH CNN THIS PAST WEEKEND??? I DO BELIEVE THEY BASE THEIR PROGRAM ON FACCTTSSSSS. COSTA RICA WAS SAID TO BE THE HAPPIEST COUNTRY IN THE NATION. IN THE NATION. OH MAYBE CAUSE THEY ARE ALLLL DRUNK I’M SURE. OR BROKE BECAUSE THEY ARE GETTING ROBBED EVERYDAY AND RIPPED OFF. CAN’T TURN YOUR BACK ON US THAT’S WHY WE ARE SO HAPPY.
Comment by veronica — July 8, 2009 @ 11:18 am
P.S.
YOU NEED TO READ the article that ends with “written by cojito” the one you say is an ‘interview’ that sounds like opinions of cojito - that says ‘EVERY’ tico you talk to has a story about…blah blah blah.
NONE OF MY FAMILY AND FRIENDS THERE HAVE NEVER, HAD A ‘PERSONAL’ STORY PER SAY - THANK GOD. I certaintly have stories of others as well as here in the U.S. but to say EVERY TICO is like you are trying to make others think the worst. In your interview with who??? I only read YOU spitting out smack. Before you say you ‘like’ it read it AGAIN!
Comment by veronica — July 8, 2009 @ 11:28 am
You don’t deserve to even talk about COSTA RICA SOOOO STEP! I’m done.
Comment by veronica — July 8, 2009 @ 11:29 am
I never would’ve known about San Jose - I’d actually heard that Costa Rica was one of the safest countries in Latin America. I guess not.
I live in Bogota, Colombia. The north is the nice part. I think it seems OK at night, but all the locals say nowhere is safe after 10pm. And the streets do empty out around then.
The main difference I think is that Bogota has improved to get to this point. The stories I hear about Bogota in the 90s are horrible. Being in the crowded downtown in broad daylight was dangerous. There was no control. So most people are ecstatic about the current situation.
Comment by Colin — July 16, 2009 @ 3:03 am
Costa Rica is a beautiful diverse land with warm and wonderful people. Crime is now rampant due to foreigners escaping their countries to live there and because it is a haven for organized criminals. My experience has led me to belive that law enforcement, bribery, and corruption are almost one and the same. Greed guides the chopping up of rainforest by foreigners who are eager to sell lots to newcomers in this “save” place. Those “savest place in the world” articles are written by people you should beware of because they are lying. The cost of living there is much higher than the U.S. EVERYTHING cost more unless you grow your own food or shop strictly in farmers markets. It is a haven for organized crime and the drug trade…just follow the daily news. Terrorists can move freely in and out of the country for a price…about $3,000. Bribery is the mode of operation for the higher level criminal. The common criminal will steal anything and everything…so don’t bring anything you don’t mind parting with. I personally was severely victimized there by a foreigner who sold plot of land along the coast. There aren’t laws to protect you and the criminals do roam freely without fear of justice being served. Hopefully one day the Costa Rican people will boot out foreigners and forget trying to “improve” their way of life. They are happier than most Americans and they don’t need to be “modernized”. That is the beauty…Costa Rica should remain a wild and happy land. It is going the wrong direction by getting involved with the U.S. Costa Ricans were far happier before they attracted tourists and people escaping their own countries for whatever reason. Most tourists that are targets and victims of violent crimes do not end up staying and prosecuting their assailants. Most such crimes go unprosecuted and unreported and the government at the municipality level often is paid off by someone….in my opinion. Lawlessness is the word I’m looking for. High level criminals know the system and work it well to exploit the innocent target coming to the “land of pura vida”.
Comment by Ed — July 17, 2009 @ 7:44 pm
Now that’s a well written article!! Thank you Ed! Finally, someone who says it like it is and very well put 100%!! Cojito should take notes.lol-
That’s why I said they need to STAY OUT! Some Foreigners go in, corrupt where they can, then leave, and then talk shit about the place that gave them sanction on how bad it is. Like a disease taking over a clean vulnerable body. I hate to say ‘it’s too late’, but it is!! Look at Oscar Arias the C.R. President - Mr. Mediator/protector for the Honduras President against his OWN government! Not his people though. Why does it have to be CR to protect everyone running from somewhere?? Now watch,soon they’ll be talking shit about CR AGAIN on how they had some kind of involvement with the crap going on in Honduras, but who asked them to send him to CR??…People running from their OWN countries…for crap they got themselves into. STAY in your own land that you LOVE SO MUCH and is so much ‘SAFER’ and deal with the consequences - LEAVE US OUT OF IT. Don’t bring your disease to our land as it’s already infected by the likes, it didn’t START IN COSTA RICA but misery likes company so they picked US!? My CR people I can say are VERY dumb. Not smart at all. Too naive and quick to fall for a dumb ass money making scheme. But Ed you were right on point.
Comment by veronica — July 24, 2009 @ 9:37 am
You were absolutely correct when you said-
….”It is going the wrong direction by getting involved with the U.S…..”
I guess this is who sent Hoduras President there…
…”Even the Clinton-chosen mediator of the talks, Costa Rican president Oscar Arias, told the US that Honduran elections scheduled for November will be illegitimate if sponsored by the coup organizers. [NYT, July 12]
Obama could recall the American ambassador to Honduras. In addition to suspending $18.5 million in US military assistance, Obama can disallow the $180 million presently in the pipeline. Spending that money is arguably illegal under the 1997 Leahy amendment to prohibit assistance to a military which overthrows an democratically-elected government, as Honduran forces did on June 29. ”
ouch! this sucks SORRY HONDURAS. Now that the people are all in a tight situation and kaos is forming DONNNT COME RUNNING INTO COSTA RICA!!! PLEASE! STAY WHERE YOU ARE OR GO SOMEWHERE ELSE. HAHAHAHAHAHA PLEEEEEASE. MAN O MAN.
Comment by veronica — July 24, 2009 @ 11:02 am
Veronica I wish you had time to chat with me personally sometime aksafetycerts@alaska.net
Comment by akjayme — July 29, 2009 @ 4:41 pm
if you don´t like my country then stay away from it… we don´t need more fat winy gringos here, we have plenty with the more than half a million we get every year… if the u.s is so good, then PLEASE by all means stay there!!!!!! most decent costa ricans wan´t nothing to do with gringos, because they only come here for cheap sex and to feel better about themselves… gringos should need visas to come here…
Comment by pablo — October 14, 2009 @ 10:36 am
Well I’ve been here for about a month now and so fat it’s all good. Preetty much common sense will prevail and I’ve lived and worked all across Europe from west to east. Same for Asia from Korea to China to Australia and even did a 3 month stint in India. The bottom line is yes there is crime everywhere and yes you will be affected by it in some degree but to shit on a whole country for the criminals they hold within their borders? You must be retarded. I’ve met plenty of locals who are decent citizens like any other country I’ve lived in. Have I been robbed? Sure I have but do I rag on about the country? Fuck no I just wish that motherfucker who robbed me fucking dies a horrible death. Bottom line, take care when you need to and take care even if you don’t.
Comment by Canuck — November 23, 2009 @ 9:44 pm
Reading about all this makes me sick to my stomach. But times change and eventhough I travelled to many central and south American countries in my 20’s and 30’s I was never robbed, not bothered by the police. But just as times have
changed the way we live in the U.S., and it is mess here, I just wanted to take some retirement time to enjoy “the paradise” every travel agent in the U.S. is showing us in the brochures. The times have made people desperate every where, but what you describe about Costa Rica really surprises me.
Comment by David Beach — January 3, 2010 @ 4:55 am