"Lovely, Laid-Back Orosí" Orosí by Sarichka

Orosí is a laid-back, not super-touristy town to use as a home base during a trip to CR. We stayed for 4 days during the high season and seemed to be the only gringos in town for a while :) Very friendly, laid-back people and a great place to practice your Spanish, as most people we met spoke little or no English.

Parade in Orosi

We were lucky enough to be there during a fair/parade in preparation for the Feast of San Jose and it was great. Guys from around the area organized a nighttime flashlight football game and people from all over the area came to watch.

Bike ride to Tapanti from Orosi

The town is located a (somewhat uphill :) bike ride from Tapantí National Park and close driving distance to Cachi, the Ujarras Ruins, Cartago, and Volcan Irazu. We could see Volcan Turrialba spewing smoke from our balcony each morning. There are two sets of mineral swimming pools in the area which are fun to go and swim and relax in on a hot morning. We met some friendly folks at the pools when we went and ended up hanging out at the fair with them later. Just a great place to spend a few relaxing days.

• Pros:Beautiful, friendly people, laid-back, near parks and volcanoes
• Cons:Central valley, so no beaches (but Rio Macho is great for swimming)