I went to the beach last weekend. It was amazing. I mean, of course it was amazing- it’s a tropical paradise on its worst day. But in this case, it was an almost empty tropical paradise. This was my experience with traveling during the pandemic.
It’s no secret that tourism has taken a huge hit due to the global pandemic. We’d like to make it clear- this has been devastating for the local economy.
There are not many positives these days, which is why we’d like to take a few moments to acknowledge something nice.
There are fewer tourists than ever, which is why now is the best time to travel.
Traveling during the Pandemic
There is going to be some risk to traveling, as long as the majority of the population has yet to be vaccinated and the virus continues circulating. However, there is also risk with going to the grocery store, class, work, and a myriad of other things we have to do on a daily basis.
Our priority is minimizing risk while continuing to live. For those traveling internationally, that means making trips and vacations to Costa Rica as safe as possible.
Fewer Tourists, Less Risk
Our whole lives are about social distancing. If you’ve ever visited Manuel Antonio or La Fortuna during normal years, you would have found beautiful, yet often crowded towns. Not ideal for social distancing.
However, since the pandemic started and global travel halted, these normally crowded areas have been much emptier. Remember that all Costa Rican hotels are operating at 50% capacity. It’s much easier to practice social distancing while traveling during the pandemic. There simply aren’t as many people at the tourist sites to worry about.
Between the natural social distancing and the fresh air, the risk of infection while walking along the beach or sipping a margarita poolside is much lower.
Fewer Tourists, More Fun
I loved being almost alone at the beach. It’s quieter. Everything is cleaner. Nature is happier. When travelers want isolation and solitude in Costa Rica, they often go to the far reaches, such as Tortuguero or the Osa Peninsula. Since March 2020, those quiet havens have been virtually the entire country.
The popular tourist areas aren’t exactly empty, but compared to high season normally? They are as empty as we’ll ever see them, barring another catastrophic world event. This is the best time to view the Arenal Volcano, walk the beaches of Tamarindo, or even catch a gourmet meal in San Jose.
And the more secret parts of Costa Rica? Welcome to your own personal paradise.
If you’re traveling during the pandemic, come to Costa Rica. This is the most tranquil you will ever find this gorgeous land. Don’t miss out!