Recently, I received a message from someone who expressed interest in taking one of my monthly relocation tours. In his letter, the gentleman stated why he was reluctant to move to Costa Rica at this time.

He stated bluntly that “San José is a pit.” He is not the first person to demonize Costa Rica’s capital city. Granted living in downtown San José is not for everyone but some foreigners do since there is a lot to see and do.

Here is what one expat living in San José said:

“I can understand every expat has a different perspective about San José. After living in New York City for so many years without a car, I have no intention of buying one to live in the suburbs of San José. The city suits me fine. Buses and taxis are always available if I want to travel outside the city. I have a home just a block north of Torre Mercedes, off Paseo, Colón, and easily walk to most things I need such as the weekend flea market in the Cementerio district, theaters, and art galleries in downtown San José and Sabana Park. “

A block or less from my house there’s a supermarket, several interesting restaurants, a major bank and a few bakeries. I know the neighbors on my little street as well as the guys who knock on the door to offer the daily newspapers or a pushcart full of vegetables.” Another expat stated, “I find San Jose’s air…