It's easy to spot a tourist even from a mile away. That's already a fact. First of all, unless you are in a very diverse country, these tourists look different. They always have some cameras with them to take a few shots even if it seems to be the most mundane item possible. They always have big backpacks or, in some cases, a couple of kids who look like they are going on a family vacation. They are the ones who always have a map with them.
If you think you've looked like one, there's no need to get worried. Looking like a tourist is really unavoidable, but looking like a clueless tourist can and should be avoided. While Costa Rica is still generally safe, it is recommended that you do not look like a tourist as much as possible. Tourists are hot items for wrongdoers. They are perceived to have a lot of money (though this is not always the case).
You can avoid being a target of wrongdoers by being modest with the way you look. Do not go for luggage that are too expensive-looking. Don't bring with you that Louis Vuitton luggage even though you like it very much. Go with regular, neutral-loooking bags instead.
This also goes for your credit cards, valuables, and important documents. If something is not needed, it's better off left at your house. Don't bring your house to Costa Rica. When you're already here and you decided to go out, it's also recommended that you do not bring all of your cash and all of your credit cards with you, just in case something terrible happens. It's also imperative that you photocopy your documents. I can't count how many times tourists have reported that their documents, such as their passports, have been lost.
As for maps, study them first before going out in the open. If you have a car, then you can bring it out, sure, but once walking outside, reading a street map is a sure giveaway.
It's nice to enjoy that vacation. It's nice to see new places and things. But please do not endanger your life by making people see that you are new to a place. Always be careful and vigilant.
