The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Spain updated its website with several safety recommendations for citizens traveling to Costa Rica, this after the murder of a Spanish tourist August 4th in Tortuguero, Pococí, Limón.

“It is recommended to travel with precaution. Since there have been some violent attacks against women tourists, it is recommended to take self-protection measures and avoid transiting alone or in isolated or with little light, both in urban zones and tourist areas”.

“An increase in violence has been registered with the use of firearms (although not directed specifically to tourists), in the more conflictive areas of San Jose or Limón, especially at night time.”

The travel advisory also warns of specific areas of risk, listing as high risk the area known as “zona roja” (red zone) of San Jose (Streets 14 and 6, Central and 7) and the rest of the city of San Jose at night and Limón; and areas like Tamarindo, Jaco, Quepos, Manuel Antonio and Puerto Viejo as areas of medium risk.

Arantxa Lopez Gutierrez, 31-years-old traveled to Costa Rica with her husband and went for a run alone the morning of August 4th, she didn’t make it back to the hotel, she was found in a trail near the hotel with signs of sexual assault and strangulation.

Back in June, the Canadian Government also updated their Costa Rica travel advisory: “Costa Rica – Exercise a high degree of caution due to crime”. Some of the warnings and recommendations are:

“Crime, in particular theft, is a problem throughout Costa Rica. To lessen your risk of becoming a victim of crime, you should stay alert and be aware of your surroundings”.

“Petty crime—including pickpocketing and bag snatching—occurs frequently in Costa Rica. Tourists are common targets for theft because they are perceived as being wealthy. Be cautious of strategies to distract your attention. Avoid showing signs of affluence and never leave valuables such as money, credit cards, jewellery, cell phones and other electronics unattended, especially on beaches. Do not carry large amounts of cash and use caution at automated banking machines (ABMs). Avoid isolated areas and never walk alone at night.”

“Theft from vehicles is very common, especially at hotels, supermarkets, restaurants, store lots, national parks and beaches. Do not leave your passport or your valuables in the car, even if you leave the car for only a few minutes.”

“Violent crime against foreigners, though not frequent, is a concern. Incidents of armed (gunpoint, knifepoint) robberies, carjackings and home invasions have occurred in beach areas and on the main highways in the Central Valley region, even in daylight.”

The Costa Rican Government through the Ministry of Security and the Costa Rican Tourism Board have announced they will allocate additional funds to increase security in the country.