Print
Email
Bookmark & shareA Top Day in San José
You're certainly in the right part of the world if, like me, you're first thought before you've even opened your eyes is caffeine. I like to have my first heart-jolting coffee of the day at News Café on Paseo Colón. I'll wolf down a plate of gallo pinto and scrambled eggs before jumping on the rickety Tico Train - a fun train that clatters around town booming out reggaeton music. Next, a stroll down Avenida Central, and perhaps I'll play a game of street boule with Tango in Plaza de la Cultura. Tango's a local celebrity of sorts who's always found in Plaza de la Cultura playing some form of street game. After inevitably losing to Tango, I'll bid him a cheery farewell and head for some pre-lunch custard ice cream in Central Market (this is my top day, so desert before lunch is allowed). Lunch is an over-flowing plate of ceviche and a steaming bowl of seafood stew in Poseidón, in Central Market - the fish is bought wriggling-fresh each morning from the neighbouring fishmonger stalls, so the experience is as close to the ocean as you'll get in this land-locked capital. With a full belly, I'll then go and ogle some shiny things in the Jade Museum. Also, sometimes I like to go and brush up on my Costa Rican historical knowledge at the National Museum. By this stage it'll be nearly time for the day's first cerveza, so I'll jump in a cab and go and sink some brews with the students on Calle La Amargura. For dinner, I'll hang out with San José's trendy-set at Bakea before rounding up a crowd to go dancing in El Pueblo. If I'm still standing, I'll then go and lose some money at Casino Club Colonial. Before I know it, it's time for breakfast again. The up-all-night crowd can always be found shoveling down gallo pinto in Chelles. Then it's time to catch a bit of shut-eye before doing it all again.
Author: Guyan Mitra
Advertisement
Book Your Trip
Travel insurance. Be covered by our recommended partner.
Compare & book flights from 100's of domestic & international airlines.
Hotels & Hostels
Booking hotels is simple with Lonely Planet. See our reviewed and recommended hotels in one place and book online. Browse hotels ›
Lonely Planet Newsletters
Updates, offers and inspiration - straight to your inbox.
Subscribe now ›
Disclaimer: We've tried to make the information on this web site as accurate as possible, but it is provided 'as is' and we accept no responsibility for any loss, injury or inconvenience sustained by anyone resulting from this information. You should verify critical information (like visas, health and safety, customs and transportation) with the relevant authorities before you travel.
