inCostaRica
adventures to exhilarate all ages, writes
Gillian Johnston
.
Capital culture and cuisine
Our trip to Costa Rica began in San
José, the capital, in a B&B that had
been transformed from five traditional
wooden homes into a welcoming hotel
set in lush gardens. Buffet breakfasts
featured an array of delicious local
dishes.
The city isn’t the prettiest, but has
a young vibe. Sightseeing on foot
reveals colonial architecture and
heritage buildings, as well as hip, arty
areas. Highlights include the museums
of both Pre-Colombian Gold and
Contemporary Art and Design, and
the beautiful Teatro Nacional. Kids
will enjoy the hands-on exhibits at
Museo de los Niños as well as the
Butterfly Garden. Wander around
Barrio Amon’s historic villas and
galleries, and shop for handicrafts.
San José serves up an introduction
to Costa Rican cuisine, including the
famous staple
gallo pinto
(rice cooked
with black beans and spices). Food
is fresh and clean-tasting, ensuring
happy tums for the whole family.
Dishes are flavoursome but not spicy;
Ticos prefer their hot sauce, chillies
or tongue-tingling pickled vegetables
on the side, adding them as they like.
Casados
are set meals of typical Tico
dishes. Thirst-quenching fresh juices
Photography top left: Gillian Johnston
