While I sympathize with the unfortunate incident, I have to agree with ShellD and to add my two cents worth.

We just returned from 8 glorious days in Costa Rica. We flew into San Jose, stayed overnight then drove to the Uvita region (about 4 hours with a couple of stops in between). We drove everywhere and then took the road back along the coast (partly unpaved to Quepos, then across some very steep mountain roads). Not once did we have a problem and I feel that being overly precautious is often to your detriment as you're constantly looking over your shoulder for something to happen.

My husband, who had read about some of the scams, was a little disconcerted on our drive back when the car behind pointed to our tire and indicated it was flat. Thinking himself aware of the scam, he felt they were trying to get him to pull over.
A few minutes later, we stopped for gas and discovered that we indeed DID have a flat tire and that the other car was simply trying to help.

Everywhere we went in Costa Rica we were struck by the warmth and generosity of the people and how they would go out of their way to help us. As several people pointed out on this post, bad things happen everywhere, and I am reluctant to paint anyone with the brush of negativity based on some bad reports.

Much of the time we were visiting with my husband's daughter who is working with the Peace Corps, staying with a family in a tiny village and I have rarely experienced being around people who have so little and who want to give so much.

So are the express busses, etc. generally considered safe ways to travel?
Thanks,
Tammy

tamtot, the answer is yes and no. Like with the car situation, vigilance and common sense is MUCH required. If the bus will be making ANY stops, you don't want luggage beneath it. As a precaution against whatever, I NEVER ride a public bus with more than a large backpack that I can hold in my lap the entire time. Wouldn't even trust it up above because you would need to keep an eye on it constantly.

Also, never wear jewelry.

Never get off for a rest stop and leave your things in the seat (even if everyone else is getting off).

Pretty much extreme vigilance. And assume nothing. Those things being said, the bus system can be a pleasant and fun way to travel about the country. But you aren't always guaranteed a seat. I spent a couple of 2 hour trips standing like sardines packed in the aisle this past summer. Now I'd BOUGHT a seat, but at one rest stop, got off to use the restroom. Once you're off that bus and others have boarded, you just cram in wherever you can. It isn't for everyone!
But it's cheap and offers an interesting experience in another culture.