"Costa Rica 2003 - San Jose, Jaco, Manuel Antonio" Costa Rica by shadowtill

Upon ariving in Costa Rica most visitors will enter using the International airport in San Jose. The airport is located a good 20-30min from downtown and many skip the capital all together and head for their destinations directly. For the more adventurous... or those single male travelers.. San Jose can be one hell of a town. Crime has increased in the last year or so... and one should take care walking anywhere after dark. Take a taxi and you'll be fine. In the area known to some as "gringo gultch" you'll find many ex-pats and tourists alike... this is also where you will find San Jose's blooming Casino and Sportsbook business as well as some of the more adult entertainment centers. If sin offiends you then stay clear of the gultch and the likes of the "Del Ray", the "Blue Marlin". Otherwise it can be quite an eye opening experience.

• Pros:Beautiful country, rain forests, good roads, good food, lots to do in a little space
• Cons:Getting touristy, more expensive than the rest of Central America.
• In a nutshell:A great destination for all.. especially for those that want a combination of adventure without the hassles of a typical Central American country.