7 Tips for the Solo Female Traveler in Central & South America
You can never have too many good tips when it comes to safety while traveling solo in Central & South America. So as a single female traveler, I thought I would share a few safety tips I have put into practice on my journeys throughout the Americas.
Is Costa Rica safe for solo travelers? The short answer is a definite yes.
While solo travel is known to be one of the most important experiences when it comes to shaping one’s perspective on the world, some have come to fear the possibility of running into a less than ideal situation while abroad. However, Costa Rica happens to be a fantastic solo travel destination. It is known for its warm people, laid back Pura Vida attitude, and accessibility when it comes to meeting like-minded solo travelers while making your way around.
Although unexpected situations can occur anywhere, nothing should stop you from fulfilling your dream of traveling to a tropical paradise on your own. The media has a tendency to shine a giant spotlight on tragic events, which can create an idea around a place being unsafe for tourists, especially solo travelers. But the reality is that solo travel is a life changing experience, and Costa Rica is a perfect destination. With the proper information and enough research and planning, you can be perfectly prepared to take on a new country and live one of the most exciting adventures of your life. Traveling to Costa Rica alone may just turn out to be life changing experiences for you.
It really doesn’t take much more than trusting your instincts and using common sense to be adequately prepared to travel on your own in Costa Rica. Plus, here’s compiled a list the top 7 most important tips for the solo female traveler in Costa Rica:
1. Set up a safety net. Before you leave, be sure to schedule check in times with family or friends, and give people a great idea of where you’re going and when you expect to arrive there. Continue to check in with your safety contacts periodically during your trip, especially if you’re moving between cities.
2. Passport photocopies. Get at least two full-color photocopies of your passport to have on your person at all times. It’s important to carry ID with you while traveling for all kinds of reasons, but it’s not necessary to risk losing the hardcopy. Once you’ve arrived to where you’re staying, find a safe place to store your passport while you head out to explore. However, if you don’t find a place where you feel safe enough to leave it, pay attention to your instincts and bring it with you.
3. Travel insurance, medication and allergies. Don’t skip out on travel insurance. Ever. It’s just an unnecessary risk to take that can cause major headaches if something unfortunate were to happen. It’s a great idea to write down any important medications, severe allergies, your insurance information and safety contact’s information all in one place, and carry it with you at all times. You can find out more information about travel medical insurance from our previous blog.
4. Do some homework. Do some research on where you’re going and how you’re going to get there. Knowing about the place you are visiting ahead of time so that you don’t look completely and utterly lost when you get there can help avoid giving off the impression of vulnerability.
5. Be confident. Walk with your head held high, and like you know where you’re going. Anyone looking to cause trouble with a visitor is going to be looking for someone looks like someone who clearly has no idea where they are. We’re not saying it’s not alright to ask for directions, but go into a local café or shop to ask instead of asking strangers on the street.
6. Don’t wander around alone at night. This may seem like common sense, but it’s never a bad thing to remind yourself. If you’re heading out on the town, be sure you know how to catch a taxi back or have a few other travel buddies going with you. Hostels are a great way to meet other like-minded travelers and you’ll always be safer moving as a group at night. Another tip is not to use ATMs at night. If you can, get all the cash you’ll need during the day.
7. Trust your gut and look after yourself. As a woman, you’ll probably end up getting some stares or catcalls – as is the norm in most Latin countries. However, ignoring them and standing your ground is all there is to it. If you’re heading out alone, maybe dress a little more conservatively than you would if you were heading out with the girls back home. If you’re drinking, limit the amount. Traveling alone and getting intoxicated without anyone to look after you is never a safe idea. If you are ever feeling uncomfortable, trust that feeling!
A great way to experience Costa Rica as a solo traveler is also by checking out guided tours around the country. You’ll meet new people, and have a guide to show you around and teach you about the local culture. Click here to see a list of great Costa Rica tours for solo travelers!
Overall, no matter where you are or what you’re doing, it’s always important to be on high alert. As a woman, trust your instincts and set up the proper safety nets not only for your safety, but so that you can relax and enjoy your adventure! Being vigilant while traveling to Costa Rica alone doesn’t mean you can’t have all the fun too!