Lone women tourists urged to take care in Costa Rica

Following three murders of women tourists over the last four months, Germany, France, the United States, New Zealand and the United Kingdom urged their citizens to take care in visiting Costa Rica.

However, the Costa Rican Tourism Institute says that it is too early to fear for the good name of Costa Rica as a result of the murders.

The other countries are simply urging caution, and we appreciate that, said Alberto López, managing director of the institute. "The tourists have information and we expect them to observe the recommendations," he added.

Meanwhile, the government is boosting security in tourist areas and will launch an "app" for visitors to the country in an effort to ensure that the tourism industry is not affected, business leaders say.