Hope you had a good trip to Costa Rica – as you are probably back by now. I’ve been to Costa Rica several times – and have been wowed by the friendlyness of the people. Parts of San Jose can be a little creepy esp at night – but most areas in Costa Rica are pretty safe. Compared to the other Central American countries Costa Rica is more middle class and on a whole there is less poverty.
Great beaches, rain and cloudforests, volcanoes (Arenal), and National Parks – also be sure to check out the excellent gold museum in San Jose (Museo de Oro) http://www.museosdelbancocentral.org/inicio_eng.html
I also enjoyed my time at the Monteverde Cloud Forest and went on many hikes. I even saw the colorful Quetzal.
Regards,
~ Dave