Robbed in Costa Rica?

[capturedbybrooke]

So I'm going on a vacay to Costa Rica next month. I am super excited for the opportunity to shoot so many amazing things there. I am also super nervous to bring my expensive camera and equipment there. I have heard things about people getting robbed. We are staying in a hotel right outside San Jose, then we are going on a tour with Grayline tours each day to different places.

So I'm wondering if anyone else has been there and what their experience was. Any advice, tips, suggestions?

Also, I need a new camera bag and was thinking about getting the Lowepro flipside backpack: Amazon.com: Lowepro Flipside 300 Backpack (Black): Camera & Photo. It zips in the back for security. And I could probably take off the Lowepro logo or cover it up? I heard they know about Lowepro and will rob you if they see you with one. Also will probably not be able to bring my tripod as that would be too obvious as well?

Eeeek! I hope everything works out!!

[WooD]

I know a lot of people that go there to surf. Everyone of them have said if you lock your car, it will get broken into. They leave their cars unlocked to keep from getting their windows busted out.

This happens at the more popular surf breaks, not sure about other places.

I've not heard of anyone getting robbed at gun point or anything like that, just their cars.

[pjnr56]

I have been to Costa Rica on business at least two dozen times in the last 10 years and have had no problems. A friend of mine just took his wife and in-laws there on an "adventure" vacation and they drove themselves through the rainforests, nature preserves, and many small towns with no problems either. They thoroughly enjoyed the trip, felt completely safe and all of them had cameras ranging form point and shoots to D-SLR.

Like any country, including the US, I am sure there are places that are dangerous but if you use common sense and travel in a group I doubt you will have any problems.

Relax and enjoy your photo vacation!

[mpascal]

I have family living in Costa Rica, Jaco to be exact, and I've been there a couple of times. I've taken my camera and done a lot of exciting nature things. I've not had any bad experiences and strongly recommend, be careful, but have a great time. With a large group I don't thing you'll have any problems.

Michael