San Jose Shopping

Shop ‘til you drop at the Mercado Central. See the variety of extraterrestrial-looking fruits, listen to price negotiations on giant sides of beef, or pick up a hand-stitched cowboy hat from the Tico who made it. In a cultural wonderland like this, you’re bound to experience something you never knew existed. The Central Market is the most colorful place in San Jose and a must see if you are around. It is located between Avenidas Central/1 and Calles 6/8 and open everyday but Sunday. What ever you need will be there. There is an abundance of meat, fish, flowers, vegetables, fruits, spices, and even the odd knickknacks like hammocks and baskets, which are perfect for souvenirs. It is here that you can find something for all of your friends and family back home and even try something new. Honestly, anything you can think of will be there even a pig head and octopus. Be careful though as pickpockets thrive in this crowded atmosphere.

Parque de la Democracia just behind the National Museum is one of the best destinations for souvenir shopping in the city. Set up in a make-shift tunnel of covered stands, the vendors display handmade and imported gifts that represent Costa Rica. This is a great place to pick up a hammock or practice your haggling skills. Among the most common items are hippie style clothing, trays made of brightly colored wood, jewelry, artistic bowls and paintings. Most of the vendors speak English.