Prostitution and Escorts in Costa Rica
Many tourists are surprised to learn that prostitution in Costa Rica is perfectly legal. However, it is illegal to procure a prostitute or to act as a go between or pimp. Prostitutes are supposed to be registered so they can be provided an ID card and receive medical examinations. Unfortunately, many are not registered and STD’s have become a growing concern in Costa Rica’s sex industry.
The majority of prostitutes and escorts are located in downtown San Jose. Although the cities general appearance is far from a “red light district”, it doesn’t take a trained eye to notice the women that meander down the streets or camp out in hotel bars. There is however an area of town where the prostitutes are more assertive in offering their services. Deemed the Zona Roja (Red Zone) prostitutes and drug dealers run rampant and are eager to prey on naive tourists. Sadly enough it isn’t uncommon to be approached by prostitutes that are preteens. The legalities of prostitution here should not confuse travelers who are interested in having relations with minors. Sexual interaction with anyone younger than 18 year old is considered illegal. The Costa Rican government takes this crime very seriously and those accused of sexual actions with a minor are treated guilty until proven innocent.
Although there are no brothels per say, the Costa Rican strip clubs and massage parlors find themselves as a base camp for many prostitutes. A useful note for tourists is that the term “night club” is actually used to describe strip clubs here. It’s good to know the lingo especially if you are using taxis during your stay. If you are interested in going dancing rather than getting a lap dance it’s best to clarify this with the driver. And if you are interested in a “real” massage make sure you clarify your expectations when booking at non recommended spas.
For the traveler that is looking for an adult themed vacation there are numerous websites that can assist in your vacation arrangements. These sites provide a variety of travel information from sex vacations, adult travel, erotic vacations, and escort tours. Although some of these companies may be guilty of pimping the authorities over look these forms since they are fairly discrete. Overall it is crucial that you are safe and responsible with these types of travel. One lapse in judgment and you could easily find yourself taking home more than just an average souvenir.
Tags: brothels, costa rica, escorts, prostitution, sex industry, strip clubs
April 6th, 2008 at 7:35 pm
When a resort is advertised as “adult only” is it safe to assume that they are referring to a more sexually themed environment?
April 11th, 2008 at 11:37 pm
No, usually when a resort advertises as adult only it just doesn’t allow any children to stay at the facility. More of a destination for honeymooners and couples. I suppose some places are an exception. Like Hedonism. But you can get a clear idea of a resort just by doing a little research or just going to their website.
April 13th, 2008 at 9:47 am
An “adult only” resort in Costa Rica is not necessarily a sexually themed environment. There are many places that just want an atmosphere that is “kid free” in order to offer a more peaceful vacation experience.
Also, I believe the laws involving sex with a minor in Costa Rica are different from that in the states. There are many relationships in Costa Rica in which a man over the age of 18 has a consenual relationship with a female under the age of 18, and that is legal. What makes a sexual act with a minor illegal in Costa Rica is if there is any exchange of money for the act. The Costa Rican culture has long tolerated and accepted girls as young as 13 dating men in their 20’s and older. It is not a legal issue if the relationship is consenual, but considered by many to be a moral one.
Prostitution has become a big part of the tourism business for Costa Rica with a large majority of the activity focused in the San Jose central area. The Hotel Del Rey is probably the most famous location which includes several bars, restaurants, and a large hotel. This area can be quite dangerous late at night for tourists that are wandering the streets after midnight. The common rate offered by the working girls is typically $100 an hour, but negotiations are often considered.
Also, remember that if you ask to go to a nightclub in Costa Rica, you will more than likely be taken to a strip club, as that is the local terminology used for strip clubs.
April 17th, 2008 at 6:32 pm
Gaia Hotel & Reserve is a wonderful adult only resort. It’s located just a few miles South of Quepos. The scenery is beautiful and the staff is very attentive.