Alajuela, Costa Rica
Sometimes referred as Costa Rica's second city, Alajuela is located in the northwest valley of San José. National hero, Juan Santamaria, was born here. As San Jose, Alajuela has a busy downtown with a warm climate. It's location, 10 minutes from International Airport Juan Santamaria, downtown Alajuela is a convenient stop and well worth it visit for tourists all over the world.
As other cathedrals in provincial capitals of Costa Rica, Alajuela's cathedral is quite impressive. In the afternoon it's park is perfect to sit and hang out with friends as with locals. With about 5 minutes is the central market of Alajuela, walk all the block and find many fruits in good prices. Every April 11th Alajuela celebrates Juan Santamaria Day with a large parade along all the principal roads of Alajuela. By walking 2 blocks north you will find Juan Santamaria Museum, national hero special museum visited for many people every year. On Alajuela you will find friendly people, always on good mood with infectious humor.
Outside downtown Alajuela tourist can find many interesting places to visit, where we can find the Zoo Ave (zoo), located in La Garita with dozens of different species and rare birds and hosting of animals in danger. Also you can find the Butterfly farm in La Guacima, how it's name indicate, it's a place where when they keep, breed and grow different species of butterflies. Many tours are available from San jose as from Alajuela to visit these fantastic places without going through long distances.
From San Jose you can find bus transportation services almost 24 hours a day. Many hotels offer pick-up and drop-off service considering that the airport it's about 10 minutes from Alajuela and 30 minutes from San Jose. It's temperature and proximity to Juan Santamaria International Airport makes from Alajuela an attractive place to visit and other alternative besides San José.