When we are on vacation, we are often in a relaxing mood forgetting to take adequate measures to protect ourselves. Here are some of my tips.
I always have a copy of my complete itinerary. This serves as confirmation of reservations if something hasn't been completed on the other end, you have proof that you either have already paid or that they already have your credit card information. Having this information has saved me many times when someone dropped the ball on the other end.
Always make a copy of your passport information (page with your picture and passport number) and put it in a safe place that someone would not think to look. I always hear stories of passports being stolen. In some countries passports can be sold for hundreds of dollars.
I always wear a money belt under my clothes. Don't carry all you money in one place. If something happens, you can rely on other sources. Write down all your credit card numbers and expiration dates and numbers to call of all the cards that you travel with in case they are stolen. I always carry 1 credit card. I always try to pay as much of my trip before I arrive, so I carry less cash.
Always have your luggage in your view. I always carry a backpack with one set of clean clothes in case my luggage is lost or misplaced by the airlines. Never ask a stranger to watch your luggage for you. Be aware if someone tries to distract you, it could be a couple trying to grab your bags while you are talking.
One safe way to make sure your luggage arrives with you is to only pack what
you can carry on.
If checking your luggage, make sure you mark you bags with something distinct so you can point it out from all the rest.
Be especially aware while in the airport, most of the professionals work the weary tourists that are arriving, knowing that the tourists are very vulnerable.
Always take the airport taxis or already have scheduled your pickup for your trip to your hotel. Try to have your reservations for your hotel near the airport. Remember you will be tired from your flight and you will not want to travel another 45 minutes to an hour to your hotel.
Just use good judgment and you will have a wonderful, fun filled vacation full of memories.
I have found in my years of traveling Costa Rica that the people there are very nice and friendly and over the years I have made some very good friends.