My boyfriend has been there. He said it is nothing but hookers and hustlers. There are no jobs.
https://www.osac.gov/Pages/ContentReportDetails.aspx?cid=12155
“Tips on How to Avoid Becoming a Victim
Maintain a low profile. Do not carry large sums of cash or wear flashy clothing and jewelry. Most businesses accept major U.S. credit cards, and many local ATMs dispense both U.S. dollars and local currency.
If possible, do not travel alone at after dark, and do not walk in isolated areas at night.
Travelers should purchase an adequate level of locally valid car theft insurance. Never leave luggage or other valuables in a parked vehicle. Park in paid lots whenever possible; if unavailable, park in well-traveled and lighted areas. Always lock vehicle doors and use the anti-theft device and alarm system if the car is so equipped.
When driving, minimize the risk of smash-and-grab robberies. Keep valuable items hidden and if possible, within reach. Valuables left in plain view on the passenger or back seats are easier targets.
Visitors should use taxi cabs that are red or orange only. Visitors should never get into a cab that is occupied by more than just the driver. Visitors should also ensure that the cab has a working meter.
It is highly advisable that visitors avoid city buses. United States government employees are not permitted to use this medium of public transportation, as city buses are a haven for petty thieves and are often robbed.
Passport theft is a big issue in Costa Rica. Tourists are encouraged to leave passports in hotel safes or other secure locations while visiting. Make a photo copy of the biographical and entry stamp pages in lieu of carrying your passport.
The Embassy recommends visitors be extremely cautious when visiting downtown San Jose after dark.”
Does that sound safer than where you currently live? I know that despite growing up and working in one of the most crime ridden cities on the West Coast that around here government agencies encourage their employees to ride on city buses. To me it sounds a little scary, but I have never been there... so I don't know. We do know some people who retired to Ecuador and moved back here after it didn't work out.
Costa Rica’s third world. I prefer Panama, specifically, Boquete, Panama.
I am leaning Panama right now.
I hear Belize is nice.
Go down fighting. Surrender and submit, never. Walk by faith in God no in fear of man. Fantasy island is for DONKEYS.
Here is how indigents in the Philippines get aid:
NEED OUR HELP?
If you fall any of the following categories, please do not hesitate to call us at 892-5198 or 892-2510:
Beneficiaries:
AAP primarily deals with American citizens and persons of American lineage legally present in the Philippines who are in severe economic situation. They are the following:
American Citizens
American travelers in genuine need i.e. temporary lodging/food, repatriation
Senior citizens
Medical cases
Prisoners
Others
Dependents of American Citizens
Legal Children of an American Citizen
Legal Wife of an American Citizen
Illegitimate children of an American Citizen
Age Group:
There is no age (entry age) requirement as long as the client falls under AAP’s programs and services and has establish need for assistance.
When reporting to AAP, Please do not forget to bring the following documents which apply to you.:
Consular Report of Birth Abroad
Passport
Marriage Contract
Medical Record
Identification Card with Photo
Photos with the American Father
Letters of the Parents
Barangay Certificate of Indigency
http://www.americanassociationphilippines.org/needhelp.htm
Includes very informative videos at bottom of the article