Getting to Know San José

San Jose is located in the Central Highlands of Costa Rica. It is the largest city in Costa Rica and also the capital of the country.

Due to the size of the metropolitan area, San Jose offers an array of interesting things to see an do.

While Costa Rica is not known for great food, San Jose has an abundance of restaurants to choose from. If you want local food, there are great options. For those looking for international food, San Jose has a wealth of places.

In terms of shopping there is enough to keep anyone busy. Throughout the city are interesting little shops offereing a variety of goods. There are also one or two good malls that have a distinctly North American feel to them. Finally, in downtown San Jose is the Mercado Central. This market is a must see. Even if you do not purchase anything, just walking through the busy corridors of the markets can be very interesting. Merchants sell everything from fresh fish to leather handbags.

If you are interesting in sports, San Jose has plenty to offer. There are numerous gyms and clubs throughout the city. Many of these clubs offer daily or short term memberships. The most important sport in Costa Rica is futbal (soccer), and the metro area is home to two of the best teams in the country, Saprisa and Alajuela. If you have never been to a professional soccer match in Latin America you are missing out!

In terms of bars and clubs, San Jose seems to have one on every street corner. Some of the neighborhood bars are great to visit. Stop by grab an ice cold Imperial and have a boca (small snacks served with each drink). You will find the locals to be very friendly. If you are looking for dancing or music, once again San Jose offers something for everyone!

San Jose offers a little something for everyone. If you stay awhile you are sure to get to know the place and enjoy it.

Much of the information on our site as it relates to Costa Rica is:

Courtesy of Christopher P. Baker and Avalon Travel Publishing.
© 2004 Christopher P. Baker. All Rights Reserved.

A2Z Languages highly recommends Christopher P. Baker's book: Moon Handbooks Costa Rica. Click on the image to visit his website where you can purchase this book or find out more about the author.