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How to Travel Safely in Costa Rica in the time of COVID-19 and Come Back Happier Than Ever.
We’ll be the first to agree with you: This pandemic continues to be a serious issue, but if it
isn’t a totally crazy idea, this might be a good time to come and visit Central America’s Rich Coast.
So, is it safe or isn’t it?
Overall, yes. It is. But, keeping in mind that the global pandemic isn’t over, the Delta variant is upping the threat all over, and Costa Rica doesn’t exist in a bubble… heck, it isn’t even an island… well, a certain level of caution is just good sense.
But, there are reasons to feel a bit more secure in Costa Rica than you might think. It is a land with a lot of wide open and natural spaces, where people have been dutifully getting their vaccines (instead of wearing tin foil hats), and overall, it’s a place that wants you to come back and is working on it.
So, with some precautions, it might be possible to say that a vacation in Costa Rica this winter is a fine idea, and a safe one…
Just the facts…
Costa Rica has been receiving and administering vaccines for many months, having surpassed 50% partial (first dose) vaccination, and full vaccination for more than a quarter of the population, as of early September 2021.
The Delta variant has been discovered in Costa Rica, however, hospitalizations and new cases have remained below the peak levels Costa Rica experienced prior.
Still, authorities are cautious, and expect that September will see higher levels of cases before dropping off again.
Overall, the important parties seem to agree that it will be much more manageable than in many other places, and a new crisis is not expected.
The Good News
So, where is your Costa Rica in all this? Well, as a nation, it has been working diligently to get ahead of the curve, to vaccinate the population, and to open its hospitable arms to the world once more. And, despite the important curfews that have remained in place, (restaurants are open but not dance clubs)… it is actually open for business.
Ports are open, along with the airports, and several airlines have begun flying here again. Currently, airlines like Southwest, American, Delta, West Jet, have all either resumed flying or plan to when the traditional busy season is upon us.
To get into the country, a negative COVID-19 test is not required (although it’s always a good idea to check with your airline in case they have their own policy). Minors, and adults who can prove that they’re vaccinated can enter the country without insurance, while those who are unvaccinated must purchase insurance either before, or upon arrival.
For details, and to keep up on any important changes to entry requirements, look here for official, up-to-date information from Costa Rica’s tourism authority.
So, what’s the verdict?
Well, these are definitely interesting times in which we are living. To some degree, we all have to make our own best informed decisions. Do we wrap ourselves in plastic and hide in the basement, or do we run free through the closest public cafeteria we can find, and lick all the spoons? Or is it something in between?
Here’s what we do know… We have to stay safe, and we have to stay sane. And at some point, we have to live our lives! So, if you have your vaccinations, here are a couple things to keep in mind about a vacation in Costa Rica:
• No one ever caught COVID-19 on a zipline over a jungle canyon
• No one ever caught COVID-19 snorkeling at Tortuga Island (although masks are required… diving masks, that is)
• Surfing provides excellent social distancing, and masks are not required
• The same is true for paddleboarding, kayaking, and taking a siesta in a hammock
Most of all, be aware that Costa Rica offers some of the most relaxing, peaceful, and low-key COVID avoidance you may ever find. Come sit on a beach in the southern Nicoya, where the waves and turtles await. And take it easy again.
The world may be a bit crazy these days, but a mini escape is still possible. We’d love to be part of your escape destination, so keep us in mind. And travel safely.
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