We are pleased to present a new Solo Travel Destination Post from Jocelyne, a member of the Solo Travel Society on Facebook. Jocelyne is from Canada and submitted the following report about Costa Rica. Do you have a solo travel destination that you would like to recommend? Submit your description here, along with a few photos, and share it with fellow travelers!
Solo travel rating: 2 (1 is easiest, 4 is most difficult. Please see chart below)
Languages spoken: Spanish, English (in tourist and business areas)
Beautiful beaches.
Reasons to go: I have traveled in Costa Rica almost always by myself, and I have always said it is one of the countries in the world where it is safe for a woman to be alone, and to travel solo all around the country.
Of course, some people forget basic rules the moment they get off the plane, and one must always be aware of one's surroundings. I will not say that in the last 10 years of traveling throughout Costa Rica that nothing has ever gone wrong. But I love the country for the kindness of its people, the beautiful beaches, for the sunsets to die for on the pacific coast, and sunrises just as breathtaking on the Caribbean coast. I love it for the scarlet macaws flying just over your head, the congos who wake you up at 5 in the morning, for that crazy crocodile man who goes in the water to feed the 400 pound lagarto, and that little white faced monkey who grabs your bag to see if he won't find a banana.
What else can I say? I love traveling in Costa Rica, and would recommend it to all solo travelers!
An iguana catching some sun.
A local fisherman bringing in his catch.
Taking photos of camera-shy monkeys.
Solo Travel Destination Rating System
Safety – 2 (1 very safe, 2 safe in most areas, 3 be cautious at all times.)
Language – 2 (1 English is first language, 2 English speakers easy to find, 3 English speakers rare)
Navigation – 1 (1 easy to navigate by transit or car, 2 poor transit, car necessary, 3 not easy to get around)
Culture – 2 (1 Similar to North America or Western Europe, 2 Different from above but relaxed and easy, 3 Challenging)
Average Rating – 2 (1 is easiest, 4 is most difficult)