The capital city of Costa Rica is San Jose. San Jose is nestled in the heart of the central valley between giant volcanic mountains and miles of green foothills. San Jose is a very metropolitan city with a population of over a million Costa Ricans. Relative to other South American cities, San Jose is a modern city. San Jose did not become a major city until the late 1800's and had a modern building boom in the 1950's and 1960's. As a result, the city does not resemble a typical city in this region of the world. The architecture style found in San Jose amongst the masses of high-rises is commonly referred to as "Caribbean Victorian".

San Jose's nearly perfect weather attracts many foreigners. The majority of which live in Costa Rica full time. A few miles southwest of San Jose is the town of Escazu, which is the home of a large population of foreigners, primarily North Americans. Not surprisingly, Escazu is an upscale living area.

Similar to other major metropolitans, there is a lot to do in San Jose. A number of tours are operated visiting historic buildings, museums, and zoos. For the adventure traveler, San Jose has a number of popular destinations. The Aerial Tram is one of the most popular attractions. The Aerial Tram tour consist of a cable car ride above the rain forest floor at various altitudes. Horseback riding, hot hair ballooning, and tropical bungee jumping are among other favorite activities. Perhaps nothing is more of an adventure then whitewater rafting down one of Costa Rica's rainforest fed rivers. We strongly recommend taking voyage.

Costa Rica isn't known for the clusters of craft markets commonly seen in Mexico, Guatemala or the Caribbean. However, shopping can be fun. Travelers will find Costa Rican coffee, rum, leather goods, and woodcarving at reasonable prices. The Farmers Market is a fun place to spend an afternoon, where you'll find fresh fruits and vegetables, herbs, and spices. Mercado Central is another noteworthy shopping area. Mercado Central is a local flea market operated since 1880. You can find just about anything at bargain prices.

No doubt resulting from the large number of North Americans living there, the neighboring town of Escazu has all the comforts of home including a car wash, English speaking movie theatre, bowling alleys, and a county club to name a few. Not surprising Escazu also has a number of fine restaurants.

San Jose and Escazu both have a great variety of nightlife. Ask your hotel concierge for a recommendation. We have to warn you, Costa Rican's love to dance. The dance floors can get quite crowded with folks of all ages. Get out there and get crazy.