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Unlike other countries in Latin America, especially Mexico, Costa Rica’s water supply is good and perfectly safe to drink in San José and in the majority of small towns. In most places you can drink the water without fear of Montezuma’s Revenge (diarrhea) or other intestinal problems. However, be careful when you drink water in the countryside. We have lived in Costa Rica for years and have not heard many people complain about the quality of the country’s water. If you prefer, bottled water is available. Just as in the U.S., there are about twenty brands of bottled water in different size containers sold at the supermarkets. You will be pleased that Costa Rica’s water is soft for bathing and washing your hair.

Although the Costa Rican government takes precautions to monitor the quality of the water and the country has high standards of sanitation, there are some precautions you should take. Wash and peel all fresh fruits and vegetables. Avoid drinking fruit drinks made with water that are sold in stands on the street. You should also watch out for raw seafood dishes, like ceviche, served in some bars and restaurants. This type of seafood is soaked in lemon juice and not cooked with heat.

Costa Ricans are proud of their nation’s achievements in the field of health care. Their up-to-date, affordable state-run “cradle to grave” health care system reaches all levels of society by offering the same medical treatment to the poor as those with greater resources. Hospitals, clinics and complete medical services are available in all major cities and some small towns. Over 90% of the population is covered the Costa Rica Social Security system.

Many international medical authorities rate Costa Rica as having one of the best, low-cost medical care systems in the world when preventive and curative medicines are considered. The United Nations consistently ranks Costa Rica’s public health system as the best in Latin America and one of the top 20 in the world.