Explore San Jose, Capital of Costa Rica for a Tropical Holiday

Most visitors to Costa Rica start their explorations in San Jose, before opting for the beach or a trip around the islands. But a holiday centered in the capital can be memorable and fascinating. Here are a few attractions to whet your appetite.

The Jade Museum is housed in the Institute National de Saguaros building, a setting that belies this extensive collection of American jade, arguably the largest in the world. Because of the rarity of jade, with only six quarries on earth, this mineral is highly prized even before skilled craftsmen work their exquisite magic on the hard gemstone. The pre-Columbian cultures of Costa Rica are well represented.

The National Museum, a fascinating repository of archeology and history, including the sad story of the near extinction of the indigenous peoples is well worth your time. On the outside of the building, notice the bullet holes inflicted on the south wall during the civil war of 1948.

Perhaps the most impressive public edifice in Costa Rica, the National Theater amazes one with the splendor of its architectural details. Gilded glasswork with breathtakingly fine detail, colorful frescoes and expansive murals has the visitor reaching for the camera, or preferably the video camera, to capture the massive scale.

While on holiday, you will enjoy your experience more if you balance sightseeing with relaxing at the Central Market. The fun is shopping for local wares, exotic tropical fruits and veggies you’ve never seen in the grocery store at home. The market bustles with local shoppers and vendors noisily offering their goods. Costa Rican enthusiasm and love for color and fun surrounds the shoppers. Try a bunch of exotic flowers, and some local cheeses for dinner, accompanied by a new variety of avocado for a taste treat after your busy day.