In light of the recent eruptions and increased activity at the Turrialba volcano in the province of Cartago, the British Embassy in Costa Rica has updated its advice to travelers. The Costa Rica Star has been closely following the announcements by our country’s geologists and emergency officials with regard to this active colossus, which has been compared to a “pressure cooker.”

The following update by the British Embassy in Costa Rica was announced on April 9^th:

Increased activity of the Turrialba volcano has recently caused airport closures and this could happen again at any time.

Costa Rica experiences regular seismic activity. The last major earthquake occurred in September 2012 near the Pacific coastal area of Nicoya Peninsula and measured 7.6.

Costa Rica has 16 volcanoes, several of which are considered active. The possibility of eruptions always exists. The popular Arenal volcano has regular activity and Turrialba is currently active.

Other advice related to natural disasters and health includes:

The rainy season in Costa Rica normally runs from May to November, coinciding with the hurricane season in the Caribbean. Flooding can occur and heavy rains or hurricanes can cause landslides.

Since early 2013 there has been a sharp increase in cases of dengue and other mosquito-borne diseases.

In terms of crime and safety, the British Embassy states:

Around 54,000 British nationals visited Costa Rica in 2014. Most visits are trouble-free, but incidents of violent crime against tourists have increased.

There has been a steady increase in crime. Petty theft of personal items including passports is the main problem, but gang muggings and armed robberies can occur even in daylight on busy streets. Eight foreign nationals (including one British national) have gone missing in the last few years, with some related to criminal activity.

Don’t wear jewellery or carry large amounts of cash. Take particular care of your belongings in hostels and hotels. Lock valuables in a hotel room safe. Don’t use street money-changers.

Be vigilant when using buses, as thefts are increasingly common. Bags in overhead compartments are particularly vulnerable. Thieves have simple but effective ways of distracting you. Be particularly watchful of your valuables at the beach. Avoid poorly lit or remote areas.

Avoid using unofficial taxis – ‘taxi piratas’. Violent incidents involving tourists have been reported. Official taxis are red with a triangular sticker and plastic box on the roof with the name and number of the taxi company. Ideally, use radio-dispatched taxis. Make sure the driver’s ID is clearly visible on the dashboard and that the driver uses the meter.

Violent attacks including rape and other sexual offences are rare but there have been some in recent years. You should maintain at least the same level of personal security awareness as in the UK, including when using ATMs Don’t accept lifts from strangers. Avoid leaving drinks unattended in bars as there have been reports of ‘spiked’ drinks resulting in assault and theft.

Car theft and theft from cars is common, even during relatively short stops at restaurant and other car parks. Don’t leave valuables in hire cars, even in the boot and avoid leaving belongings where they can be seen from outside the car. Park in secure car parks with visible security staff, or in well-lit busy areas. There have been incidents where slashed tyres have given thieves the opportunity to help change your vehicle’s tyres while an accomplice steals from the car.