Costa Rica - San Jose
San José, 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 José 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 José 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,” 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
José 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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