My First Visit to San José, Costa Rica

As a 43-year-old single traveler from South Bend, Indiana, I decided that when the cold weather rolled in back home, it was time for a warm getaway. I’d always heard about Costa Rica’s beauty, friendliness, and rich culture, so I finally made the decision to go. For my first trip to the country, I chose to stay in its capital city, San José, to experience urban life before venturing into the more tropical regions. I booked my stay at an Airbnb called Av6 Residences Airbnb, which turned out to be an excellent choice. The building was clean, modern, and conveniently located in the heart of the city, close to shops, restaurants, and public transportation. The host was very professional and gave great recommendations for things to do. The apartment itself had everything I needed—comfortable bed, reliable Wi-Fi, and a sense of safety and quiet in the middle of a bustling city.

San José immediately captured my attention with its rhythm of daily life. It’s a city filled with people who seem to always be on the move, yet still take the time to be kind and helpful. My first full day was spent exploring some of the city’s most iconic spots. I started at the Central Market, a maze of narrow aisles packed with vendors selling everything from fresh produce and local coffee to souvenirs and handmade crafts. It was a true sensory experience—colorful, fragrant, and full of friendly faces. Later, I made my way to Parque La Sabana, a huge green park that locals call the “lungs of the city.” It was refreshing to see so many people jogging, playing soccer, and enjoying time with family. I walked around the park’s lake, took in views of the surrounding mountains, and even stopped for an ice cream from a street vendor. The park’s relaxed atmosphere offered a perfect contrast to the busy streets of downtown San José.

Of course, one of my favorite parts of traveling is exploring local food and nightlife, and San José didn’t disappoint. I spent several evenings in Barrio Escalante, a trendy neighborhood known for its excellent restaurants and casual bars. Every block seemed to have a new spot to try—everything from Costa Rican comfort food to international cuisine. I enjoyed local dishes like gallo pinto, ceviche, and chifrijo, along with Costa Rican craft beers and coffee-based cocktails. The ambiance was lively but laid-back, with people chatting at outdoor tables under strings of lights. I found it easy to strike up conversations with locals and other travelers alike, and everyone seemed genuinely interested in sharing stories and recommendations. The city’s social scene felt authentic, diverse, and inviting, making it easy to feel at home even as a first-time visitor.

When the sun went down, San José revealed another side of its personality—its energetic nightlife. I visited several dance clubs and casinos in the downtown area, each offering something different. Some places had live Latin music and dancing, while others featured DJs and a more international crowd. I also visited a few of the city’s “fantasy bars,” which were more about entertainment and atmosphere than anything else. The nightlife was vibrant, fun, and surprisingly friendly, and I always felt comfortable even as a solo traveler. Along the way, I met some wonderful new friends, including a few locals who went out of their way to show me around. One of them, a young woman from the San Pedro neighborhood, and I hit it off particularly well. She’s 26, full of positive energy, and we’ve continued to stay in touch almost every day on WhatsApp since I returned home. Meeting genuine, kind people like her was one of the highlights of my entire trip.

Looking back, staying at Av6 Residences Airbnb gave me the perfect base for exploring everything San José has to offer. From daytime adventures like visiting the Central Market and Parque La Sabana to evenings spent dining in Barrio Escalante or enjoying the nightlife downtown, the city provided a memorable mix of culture, relaxation, and excitement. The people of Costa Rica truly live up to their reputation for being warm and welcoming. Even though it was my first visit, I felt at home right away. The trip reminded me that travel isn’t just about the sights—it’s about the experiences, the connections, and the moments you carry with you long after you’ve returned. I left Costa Rica with new friends, a new appreciation for its capital city, and memories that I’ll treasure for a lifetime. Pura Vida!