I am considering renting a car during my trip to CR in Feb (San Jose, Turrialba, Arenal, MA).

Is it safe for two women to travel alone by car between these cities?

Well, I would say that it is no less safe than two guys doing it.

It all depends on what kind of people you are, not your sex. Sure sex might play a role in how you are treated but I know tons of women who travel the world solo and do just fine.

If you are the yuppie city type, no travel experience without a guide, timid about driving fast, slow or aggressive on country and mountain roads and not willing or experienced with adventure than I say that it is not safe.

If you are used to scary or as I prefer to call it "sporting " driving, have common sense about not pulling over in the middle of no where or stopping for stange people, and you are willing to go with the flow and be adventerious I say go for it.

I always like a car because I have the freedom to do what I want without calling a cab. I do hear from a bunch of folks who prefer to be driven to their resort so they can relax the entire time.

To me driving is part of the excitement and adventure of the trip. Heck this past may I spent an hour lost in San Jose and had a blast doing it (yea, I am not normal!)

Sorry for the mini tirade, I just don't think being a man or woman has anything to do with it.

Joe

No problem ladies. Once you are out of San Jose, everything is pretty easy. As noted above, be aware of the usual scams and never leave anything of value in your car. My strategy is to leave it unlocked with a copy of the local newspaper scattered about inside. Thousands of tourists in CR are driving rental cars and you will no doubt just blend in perfectly. Good luck and have fun!

Hey--hats off to you! My daughters and I have done this several times and have always felt completely safe. You'll have a great time (I like your itinerary), and as dnc11 said, these routes are fairly simple. The only part that may be a bit tricky is getting out of (or through) San Jose to Turrialba. But you can do it--just get very good directions. Also, you could use a good map. One of the best out there is the Berndston and Berndston laminated map (Barnes & Noble). It has been a lifesaver for me SO many times! Enjoy!

Thanks for your feedback.

We've decided NOT to rent a car. Instead, we've decided to go with private transfers and custom tour with costaricantreasures.com. Our trip is in Feb, and the planning seems to be going well.

I will be sure to post a trip report when we return.