Discovering Costa Rica

Shopping Much of the shopping in Costa Rica is concentrated in San José, and even some of the best shopping done here is through imports from Guatemala, Panama, and Ecuador. The central shopping corridor of San José is between Avenidas one and two, from Calle 14 in the west to Calle 13 in the east. Depending on which shopping center you go to, there will be different goods at different prices. Most shops are open Monday through Saturday from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.

What to Buy Coffee

+ Costa Rica is known for its outstanding coffee. Though most of the coffee is sold to North America and Europe, the smell of fresh Costa Rican coffee brewing in front of you is unlike anything else + Café Britt is the big name in Costa Rican coffee. They have the largest export business in the country and their roast is very dependable + The best place to buy coffee is in a supermarket. You will pay more in a gift or specialty shop Handicrafts + Fine wooden creations of Barry Biesanz are sold in finer gift shops. Since he is well known for his woodworking, there are many imitators out there. Find his signature burned to the bottom of his pieces for his authentic works Ceramic Wares + These brightly colored pieces are the perfect flare to any kitchen set: bowls, pitchers, coffee mugs, and more are available for purchase Leather Goods + Although leather tends to be expensive, Del Rio is a local leather goods manufacturer with stores in most of the malls in town, as well as S&J Leathers Shopping Centers Plaza de la Cultura is often times referred to as the capital’s centre. It is bustling with vendors, shops, and street performers. Just a few blocks east of Plaza de la Cultura, Avenida Central is a pedestrian-only walkway with shops and restaurants lining both sides of the street. Ticos and tourists come here to shop and eat. The shops include everything from department stores to electronic and craft stores.

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Discovering Costa Rica