Curator’s statement
Costa Rica feels like nature’s embrace—a place where lush mountains, gentle rivers, and Pacific beaches offer not just scenery, but healing. In the country’s committed hospitals and caring wellness retreats, I see how health and tranquility can coexist in the highest quality. It’s a destination that invites slowing down, restoring, and engaging with life deeply—through breath, taste, movement, and the natural world. For me, Costa Rica means renewal made luxurious, where every moment can become part of the healing journey.
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Where to stay in San José
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Things to do in San José
World-class health screenings at San José’s accredited hospitals
San José is home to three internationally accredited hospitals—Hospital CIMA, Clínica Bíblica, and Hospital La Católica—each known for cutting-edge technology, U.S.-trained doctors, and exceptional standards of care. For medical travelers, this means access to top-tier preventive health screenings and diagnostics in a setting that feels more like wellness than worry. It’s the ultimate “peace of mind” experience: knowing exactly where your health stands while surrounded by the beauty and healing energy of Costa Rica.
San José cultural day
Museums (Gold Museum, Pre-Columbian)
National Theatre
Markets
Small art galleries
Nice cafés
Gentle movement, culture, for lighter days.
La Paz Waterfall Gardens
Just over an hour from San José, this sanctuary has lush gardens, wildlife exhibits (butterflies, hummingbirds, rescued jungle cats), and paved trails. Great for a day trip.
Doka Coffee Plantation
Enjoy a tour of one of Costa Rica's most famous coffee plantations. Learn how coffee is produced, bean to cup.
All-inclusive catamaran day tour to Tortuga Island
Escape to the turquoise waters and white sand beaches of Tortuga Island. Enjoy the beautiful fish and turtles, while in stunning surroundings.
La Sabana Park: The lungs of San Jose
177 acres of trails, forests, open grassy areas, monuments, tennis courts, a lake, and sports fields to enjoy.
The Museum of Costa Rican Art is also inside the park.
Shopping the markets
Visit the vibrant markets filled with beautiful art, pottery, woodwork, and local souvenirs.
Check out Mercado Municipal De Artesanias, Galería Namu, and Chietón Morén Museo y Mercadito de Artesanías.
Don’t forget Feria Verde, a delicious farmers market.
Places to eat & drink in San José
Costa Rican breakfast: "Gallo pinto”, fruit, and egg in nice boutique cafés. A must-try for nourishing traditional food.
Local seafood and grilled fish: Simple, clean, flavorful. The grilled octopus at Na Praia Seafood & Raw Bar is SO good!
Healthy cafés in San José: Try Café Rojo for a fusion of local and Asian flavors with fresh ingredients. For a great vegetarian and vegan option, try Arbol de Seda.
Chocolate and cacao experiences: From chocolate-making classes at La Casa del Cocoa to visiting nearby cocoa plantations for a tour, be sure to pick yourself up some chocolate.
Upscale hotel restaurant at your retreat: High-quality, refined cuisine often featuring sustainable and local ingredients, an elegant dining experience in beautiful settings, and superior service from trained staff.
Fine dining in San Jose: Restaurante y Nirador Ram Luna is an experience with its delicious authentic food, outdoor seating, live music, cultural entertainment, a fireplace, and a fantastic view.
What’s not to love?
Need to know
Language: Most people speak English well. In more remote areas or smaller lodgings, Spanish helps, but people are hospitable.
Cultural etiquette: Pura Vida is real—Costa Ricans are friendly, relaxed. Dress modest where required (temples or towns), take off shoes when entering certain homes, and respect protected natural sites and wildlife.
Travel Advisor
Rebecca Hall
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For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our Costa Rica page.