Pete Smith

Beautiful church. Large open space with many pews; large doors on front and sides allowing for cool breeze throughout. Magnificent alter and many glorious paintings and statues. Right on the main road that surrounds Alajuela central, Calle Ancha. This church (cathedral) is certainly known to most locals and drivers, making it a good directional landmark for walking, buses or driving. Could use a little touch-up on the exterior, especially the sides, but that’s not uncommon in today’s tight budget economy. Still a beautiful building with a prominent bell tower that rings out over the city just about every day.

A nice easy walk (minimal hike) that leads you to a really nice scenic overlook, where you can see Long Valley for miles. To get there, go in Schooley Mountain Park, from E. Springtown Rd.; park in the right side of the upper parking lot; walk up towards the restrooms; take the yellow path next to the restrooms, about 20 minutes until you see a plateau of large rocks and then you will find the overlook. Or you can take the blue/white lower path along the river, and visit the water falls; and then continue on up to the overlook.

This Starbucks has an extremely friendly staff who is fast and efficient and always makes perfectly delicious coffee. The place is clean and very comfortable, with seating upstairs, downstairs and outside. The two restrooms are spotless and the wash sinks have soap and hot water (sometimes a luxury in Costa Rica). The internet is strong and always working. As good as, or better, than any NY Starbucks I've been in. THANK YOU Plaza Real Starbucks, for making me feel at home!

Very nice museum with some amazing paintings (lots of great portraits) and some artifacts that capture the rich and colorful history of Costa Rica. The rooms are comfortably air conditioned, while keeping their old-world architecture and charm. I love the polished stairs and tile floors. And the restrooms are very clean and in good working order. There is a small bookshop where you can purchase books (in Spanish) for both adults and children. Be sure to check out the quiet little garden in the back. Also, it was free when I went in March, 2024.