My San José and Escazú Adventure, Costa Rica
As a 49-year-old single traveler from Los Angeles, California, I recently returned from my fifth trip to Costa Rica — and this time, I decided to stay right in the capital, San José. While I’ve visited many parts of this beautiful country before, including the lush jungles and hot springs of La Fortuna, I had never truly explored the capital region. I wanted to experience the heart of Costa Rican culture — its city life, its people, its nightlife, and its modern neighborhoods. For my stay, I booked an Airbnb called Av6 Residences San Jose, located in a great central area that made it easy to reach everything. The apartment was clean, stylish, and secure, with everything I needed for a comfortable stay. The host was friendly and helpful, giving me recommendations on where to eat, explore, and party. From the moment I checked in, I knew I had chosen the perfect base for my city adventure.
San José has a pulse that’s both modern and authentic. It’s a city full of history and culture, yet it feels youthful and dynamic. My days were filled with exploration and discovery, starting with the Central Market, one of the oldest and most vibrant landmarks in the city. Inside, narrow walkways are lined with vendors selling everything from local coffee and fresh produce to handmade crafts and traditional Costa Rican meals. I stopped for a plate of “casado,” a local favorite with rice, beans, meat, and plantains — simple, delicious, and comforting. The market gave me a sense of real Costa Rican daily life, full of color and friendly interaction. Later, I visited Escazú and Santa Ana, two upscale areas west of the city known for their scenic mountain views, modern malls, and fine dining. Escazú, in particular, stood out to me — it’s clean, sophisticated, and full of life. I took a stroll through Avenida Escazú, a contemporary outdoor shopping and dining area that reminded me of parts of Los Angeles but with a tropical twist.
When it came to food and nightlife, I quickly learned that San José is far from sleepy. Barrio Escalante, a trendy district close to downtown, became one of my favorite areas to hang out in the evenings. It’s filled with creative restaurants, rooftop bars, and craft breweries. I enjoyed everything from Costa Rican fusion dishes to international cuisine and found that the locals truly appreciate good food and good company. Every spot had a welcoming vibe, whether I was sitting at a sidewalk café sipping on local coffee or enjoying a cold beer at a lively bar. The social atmosphere in Barrio Escalante was fantastic — a mix of young professionals, travelers, and locals all mingling, sharing stories, and enjoying the “Pura Vida” lifestyle. Everyone I met was friendly and curious to know where I was from, and it was easy to strike up conversations that often turned into new friendships.
Of course, as the sun went down, the city transformed into a playground of nightlife and entertainment. Downtown San José has plenty of dance clubs and casinos, and I made it a point to visit a few of them. The casinos were classy yet approachable, offering table games, live music, and a fun social atmosphere. The clubs played everything from Latin beats to international hits, and there was always somewhere to dance until late into the night. One of the highlights of my trip was visiting 9N Escazú, an upscale lounge in the Escazú area that perfectly blends sophistication with fun. The lounge featured hookah, great cocktails, a lively crowd, and music that kept the energy high. I was impressed by how well-run the place was — modern décor, friendly staff, and an upbeat yet relaxed vibe. On weekends, it stays open until 4 a.m., and the crowd is a great mix of locals and visitors. It quickly became my favorite spot to unwind after a long day of exploring. During my nights out, I met several friendly locals and travelers, including some wonderful lady friends who made my evenings even more memorable. The people in Costa Rica truly embody the “Pura Vida” spirit — kind, welcoming, and full of life.
Looking back on my time in San José, staying at Av6 Residences San Jose was the perfect choice for this kind of trip. The apartment offered comfort and convenience while placing me right in the middle of everything — from the traditional charm of the Central Market to the upscale energy of Escazú and Santa Ana. I loved exploring the city by day, visiting neighborhoods like Barrio Escalante, and then experiencing San José’s nightlife by night, whether it was casinos downtown or lounges like 9N Escazú. What stood out most to me was the friendliness of the people and the diversity of experiences available within just a short distance. San José offers an exciting balance — urban culture, culinary creativity, and vibrant nightlife all wrapped in genuine Costa Rican warmth. After five trips to this incredible country, I can say that this visit gave me a whole new appreciation for Costa Rica’s capital. I left with great memories, new friends, and a strong desire to return soon. Pura Vida!