Every year, more than one and a half million tourists land at San Jose International Airport and presume, logically, that they are in San Jose, Costa Rica's capitol when, in reality the airport is actually just outside Alajuela, Costa Rica's second largest town.
San Jose is about 10 miles away from the airport.
Since a cab into San Jose costs upwards of $25 (and, of course, the same to get back to the airport) compared with a few dollars for Alajuela, travelers who are a bit restricted in vacation money should give some thought to staying at a Costa Rica hostel in Alajuela either when they arrive or when they're getting ready to go home.
Depending upon where they stay, and what kinds of accommodations they are looking for (dormitory, private room), costs range from about $12-30 a day. Then, once in Alajuela, rather than take a costly taxi into San Jose, they can simply hop a bus which should get them there in about the same amount of time as a taxi but for only about a buck, not $25.
A budget minded visitor saving $25 each way between Alajuela can use that extra money to stay two or three nights in a cheap hostel.
Alajuela Attractions
Now, while the central section of Alajuela isn't particularly fascinating or attractive for visitors, the city sits below Poas Volcano, one of the country's Seven Natural Wonders. Only a few miles outside of Alajuela, the countryside turns into verdant, lush farms leading to the volcano. Temperatures drop as the mountain is climbed and tiny roadside shops sell large, sweet strawberries year round.
Another road from Alajuela takes travelers to one of the country's very popular attractions, La Paz Waterfall Gardens with its majestic waterfalls, lush tropical gardens and hummingbird and butterfly gardens.
There's also ZOO AVE, a rehabilitation center for Costa Rica wildlife and endangered animals.
Like many of the other hostels, hotels, and resorts in Costa Rica, most Alajuela hostels offer third party tours and packages to places across the country.
Since few (think virtually none) taxi drivers speak English, it's a good idea to write down the name and telephone number of an Alajuela hostel where you made reservations. Unless you know enough Spanish to communicate effectively, have the driver call the hostel for directions.
Finally, never, ever let a taxi driver convince you that your hostel is booked solid (especially if you have reservations). Many cabbies get a commission to redirect travellers (think patsies) to costlier accommodations.
San Jose is about 10 miles away from the airport.
Since a cab into San Jose costs upwards of $25 (and, of course, the same to get back to the airport) compared with a few dollars for Alajuela, travelers who are a bit restricted in vacation money should give some thought to staying at a Costa Rica hostel in Alajuela either when they arrive or when they're getting ready to go home.
Depending upon where they stay, and what kinds of accommodations they are looking for (dormitory, private room), costs range from about $12-30 a day. Then, once in Alajuela, rather than take a costly taxi into San Jose, they can simply hop a bus which should get them there in about the same amount of time as a taxi but for only about a buck, not $25.
A budget minded visitor saving $25 each way between Alajuela can use that extra money to stay two or three nights in a cheap hostel.
Alajuela Attractions
Now, while the central section of Alajuela isn't particularly fascinating or attractive for visitors, the city sits below Poas Volcano, one of the country's Seven Natural Wonders. Only a few miles outside of Alajuela, the countryside turns into verdant, lush farms leading to the volcano. Temperatures drop as the mountain is climbed and tiny roadside shops sell large, sweet strawberries year round.
Another road from Alajuela takes travelers to one of the country's very popular attractions, La Paz Waterfall Gardens with its majestic waterfalls, lush tropical gardens and hummingbird and butterfly gardens.
There's also ZOO AVE, a rehabilitation center for Costa Rica wildlife and endangered animals.
Like many of the other hostels, hotels, and resorts in Costa Rica, most Alajuela hostels offer third party tours and packages to places across the country.
Since few (think virtually none) taxi drivers speak English, it's a good idea to write down the name and telephone number of an Alajuela hostel where you made reservations. Unless you know enough Spanish to communicate effectively, have the driver call the hostel for directions.
Finally, never, ever let a taxi driver convince you that your hostel is booked solid (especially if you have reservations). Many cabbies get a commission to redirect travellers (think patsies) to costlier accommodations.
About the Author:
Whether you are a seasoned traveler or new to tropical tourism, a Costa Rica vacation may be right up your alley. 800 miles of beautiful beaches on two oceans and attractions for the whole family.If you're a bit budget minded, we recommend starting or ending your holiday near to the San Jose International Airport. Here's a great list of fine Alajuela hostels just minutes from the airport.
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