It’s been fascinating (at least to me) to see how countries have adapted to the pandemic. We’ve seen several countries completely close their border to foreign tourists, some countries implement requirements (e.g. negative COVID-19 tests, 14-day quarantine, etc.), while others have completely eliminated all requirements and welcome tourists with open arms.
Well, Costa Rica now falls into the latter group…
COSTA RICA REOPENS BORDER
According to the Tico Times, Costa Rica has now eliminated the negative coronavirus test requirement for foreign tourists and the border is officially open – even to Americans.
For context, in July 2020, Costa Rica reopened its airports to international guests from more than 40 countries, including Canada, Mexico, the European Union Schengen Zone and the US. However, only residents from certain U.S. states could visit Costa Rica including:
- Arizona, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Florida, Georgia, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, Ohio, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Texas, Vermont, Virginia, Washington, D.C., and Wyoming
But since then, international tourism “has not been a source of COVID-19 contagion” according to Tourism Minister Gustavo Segura.
So, beginning November 1, Costa Rica has opened its airports to tourists from all countries and U.S. states with need to show proof of a negative PCR coronavirus test result nor quarantine upon entering Costa Rica.
It’s worth noting that visitors will still need to:
- purchase travel medical insurance
- complete the Health Pass epidemiological form
And the insurance must be either a policy from INS, Sagicor, or a foreign policy that covers COVID-19 medical expenses and extended lodging.
FINAL STAMP
Many are familiar with the phrase that you hear and see everywhere in Costa Rica…“Pura Vida.” The English translation means “pure life” or “simple life.”
Although, the COVID numbers are far lower for Costa Rica than we saw reported by Germany, France, and the US yesterday, it hasn’t been all been “pure vida.” In fact, we’ve seen a steady increase of COVID cases in Costa Rica over the past few months.
Regardless, I know many are suffering from “COVID fatigue” and would just like a change of scenery, without confusing hurdles to jump over so this is an option should you feel comfortable to travel.
PRO-TIP: The Hyatt Andaz Costa Rica Resort at Peninsula Papagayo is a popular destination for those in the miles points circle and it reopens on 14 November 2020. Hyatt had planned for it to change categories (cat 5 to cat 6) but it was canceled due to the pandemic. In short, the standard room redemption only costs 20K points and Hyatt is a transfer partner of Chase.
What do you think about this development? Are you considering a trip to Costa Rica?
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Cover Photo: Cathalin
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