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San Jose, the Capital of Costa Rica, is
the hub of all transportation that takes place in the
country. For that reason, it is usually the first place
that you visit while in Costa Rica. Founded in 1737,
San Jose is located 3,773 feet above sea level and the
entire central valley where the capital is located has
a population of about 1,200,000. It lies between three
Volcanoes. There is a large variety of hotels, parks,
restaurants and attractions for visitors. The first
thing noticed about San Jose is the local friendliness.
The city is set up on a pretty logical grid system.
When on foot and touring the capital, Costa Ricans,
also known as Ticos,we are always willing to lend a
hand with directions. Always remember though, locals
use landmarks not street names for directions, and if
you just can't figure out where you are, find a local
church. Every church in Costa Rica faces west. While
in the Capital, you have access to the best public transportation
in all of Central America. However, if you prefer not
to take busses, Taxi's are also available 24 hours a
day. Most Taxi's are equipped with meters, also known
as Maria, so you get a fair ride. The only downside,
according to most travelers in the city, is the air
pollution. Only in the late 90's did Costa Rica stop
using leaded fuel. Because of this, there is a more
recent decrease in carbon monoxide and lead. Car exhaust
tends to be most prominent in the city from heavy traffic.
Local Attractions:
San Jose is littered with museums, art
galleries, shops featuring local handcrafted items,
casinos, malls, fine restaurants and hotels. A few of
the most popular are listed in this section.
Museo Nacional- Location, Calle 15 &
Calle 17, between Avenida Central and Avenida 2. This
Museum opened in 1887 and was owned by the Costa Rican
military until 1948. Featured in the museum are archeological
artifacts, costumes, and sample colonial art. (8:30am
to 4:30pm Tues-Sat, 9am to 4:30pm Sun and holidays.
US $2)
Teatro Nacional- Location, Avenida 2 between
Calle 3 and Calle5. The "National Theater"
was constructed in 1897 with Paris influences in the
architecture. It is decorated with Belgium Iron work,
Baroque and Italian Renaissance. (9am to 5pm Mon- Sat.
$3)
Mercado Central- Location, Avenida Central
between Calle 6 and Calle 8. Built in 1871, the market
features everything you can imagine from flowers to
fresh fruit, vegetables, meats, and religious artifacts.
Catedral Metropolitana- Location, Calle
Central between Avenida 2 and Avenida 3. This cathedral
is widely photographed. Its architecture is influenced
by the European Renaissance.
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