Community - San Jose

San Jose is the Capital of Costa Rica and largest city in Costa Rica. The official city population is about 400,000 people but if you include the population of the surrounding towns this number swells into the millions. It is centrally located in a region referred to as "the central valley" or "the central platteau" or Maseta Central. The Maseta Central is surounded by mountains which is visually very beautiful.

Located at an elevation of 3,750 feet the weather is ideal year round and which averages about 68 F - the locals (or Ticos as they are called) refer to San Jose weather as eternal spring.

Since San Jose is centrally located approximately 3 hours from both the Pacific and Caribbean port cities, all imported goods are trucked up the mountain and into San Jose for further distribution. Needless to say this flow of commerce into and out of San Jose has created an extensive infrastructure of roads, shops, and traffic - if you thought you have experienced traffic congestion in the city where you live wait until you experience traffic in San Jose. Fortunately for first time visitors this allows you plenty of time to soak up all the sights and sounds but for residents who must travel into and through San Jose this can be a lesson in patience.  

The international airport is located just outside San Jose so it is the main portal for visitors coming into Costa Rica. Travel from San Jose to the Orosi Valley is about 1 hour and, once you get out of the hustle, bustle, and congestion of city traffic, it is a very relaxing and enjoyable ride.