A few days ago, I fell at the end of this sidewalk. This photo is an improvement from the day I took the big nose dive. I’m not kidding on this - this is an improvement. Since I talked to the construction workers, they’ve filled in the two gaping holes on either side of the sidewalk (I use this term loosely); cut down the unfinished, jutting rebar from one end; and notice at the far end (I’ve included a closer shot below) - the old bleach bottle stuck upside down on a long piece of rebar. Believe it or not this is quite a normal way to mark potholes in Costa Rica. Over the years, I’ve seen lawn chairs, bouquets of flowers, and PVC pipe used as markers for dangerous ruts in the road.

People worry about safety in Costa Rica. Usually the word ties to crime. Crime is here, no doubt. But we’re stll safer than many many comparable places in the world, especially considering the poverty and the proximity to other, more volatile nations. Watch where you step. Take it easy on the road. After living almost ten years in Costa Rica and walking in many, many neighborhoods, including downtown, this was my first big fall. Even after the fall, all in all, I feel safe here.