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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