with no attempts at putting any fear into you, my gal pal Micky just got back from the Costa Rica area. She was not supposed to be back till the end of September. Turned out pretty crappy last week when her and her boyfriend were robbed in the rain forest by a group of men with huge guns military clothing' . The held them at gunpoint and took all their money, travelers checks, documentations and their rental car. They ended up walking for a day and a half before a local took them to the nearest big city and helped them to get in touch with the American Embassy. A few phone calls later and they were at home, safe and sound. I asked her if she would ever go back , and she said that even though they had a bad experience, it is a wonderfully beautiful place, filled with wonderous creature and highly recommends the trip to anyone any one with a fearlessness for travel. She did however, strongly advise that if you are staying in any area any where for more that a couple days that you get in touch with the local authorities and let them know of your plans, where you plan on hiking and confirm the safety of local areas, just in case. Let folks back home know where you are too. Good travels to you...