Medical tourism in Costa Rica is popular and on the rise.  The price of most procedures even when paying in full is much less than that of the same in North America. For that reason, many foreigners plan their procedure here and spend some time enjoying the attractions that the country has to offer before and after as well.

The quality of care in Costa Rica is excellent.  Private hospitals including CIMA, Clinica Biblica, and Clinica Catolica have modern facilities and highly trained doctors and support staff.  

If you are planning on scheduling a procedure in Costa Rica, you may want to consider SAFER Medical Group , an organization of professionals offering high quality care as well as assistance in putting your trip together.  They offer care in the following areas:

• Dermatology
• Aesthetic, Plastic and Reconstructive surgery
• Ophtalmology
• Cosmetic and Reconstructive Dentistry
• General and Bariatric surgery
• Urology
• Gynecology
• Gastroenterology
• Cardiovascular surgery
• Neurosurgery
• Orthopedics and Traumatology

Rio Colorado Bungee Jumping

By Eddie Davis 

An adventure tour of Costa Rica would not be complete without a trip to the Colorado River gorge to jump off the old highway bridge.  I once jumped off one of those man-made towers with an air mattress below in Florida, and this was a completely different experience.  The steal bridge itself is quite scenic, but looking down into the Rio Colorado and seeing the white water and rocks below definitely amplifies the anticipation.  The staff of the jump company were very friendly, and they explained everything very clearly.  Before the jump, I strapped into the harnesses that go around your waste and both of your ankles.  Standing on the platform just before jumping off the bridge was quite a rush.  Even though the fall in real time is very short, diving head first off the bridge seemed like time was moving in slow motion.  The wind rushes in your ears and you see the river and rocks rushing towards you.  I highly recommend making this bungee jump if you have the time.  You'll see signs for Tropical Bungee along the side of the highway near Naranjo between San Jose and Esparza as you are driving through the mountains on the autopista.  You'll know you are close if you see signs for Vista del Valle Hotel.  Prices were fairly reasonable and they gave a discount for residents.  The second jump is cheaper than the first.

Arenal Volcano

By Eddie Davis

Home of Arenal Volcano, the San Carlos area of Costa Rica is a great place to spend a weekend. The scenery is magnificent with the volcano rising majestically above Lake Arenal. The climate is cooler and wetter than along the Guanacaste Coast and for this reason, the foliage seems to stay green all year round. Impatiens skirt the edges of the road growing wild. Over friendly Pizotes wander into the middle of the road to beg for food in packs of five to ten.