Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Transportes Bocatoreños
BUS
Buses (departing opposite Hotel Cocori) to Changuinola, Panama (for Bocas del Toro).
Shuttle Buses
www.interbusonline.com
; US$37-57)
shuttle passengers in air-conditioned minivans from San
José to a long list of popular destinations around Costa Rica. They are more expensive
than the standard bus service, but they offer door-to-door service and can get you there
faster.
SCAMS
Note that many taxi drivers in San José are commissioned by hotels to bring them cus-
tomers, and the hotel scene is so competitive that drivers will say just about anything to
steer you to the places they represent. Among other things, they will 'call' your hotel and
a voice on the other end will tell you that they're fully booked. Be skeptical. Tell drivers
firmly where it is you would like to go. And if you have concerns about where you have
chosen to stay, ask to see a room before settling in for the night.
Getting Around
Central San José frequently resembles a parking lot - narrow streets, heavy traffic and a
complicated one-way system mean that it is often quicker to walk than to take the bus. The
same applies to driving: if you rent a car, try to avoid downtown. If you're in a real hurry
to get somewhere that's more than 1km away, take a taxi.
If traveling by bus, you'll arrive at one of several international bus terminals sprinkled
around the western and southern parts of downtown. Some of this area is walkable
provided you aren't hauling a lot of luggage and are staying nearby. But, if you're arriving
at night, take a taxi, since most terminals are in dodgy areas.
TO & FROM THE AIRPORTS
International flights arrive at Aeropuerto Internacional Juan Santamaría in nearby
Alajuela.
