Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
minute, powering a small waterfall and filling various pools (including an Olympic-size
lap pool complete with diving tower) and an artificial boating lake. Half-hourly buses to
the springs depart from the main terminal area on Alajuela's southwestern edge. From San
José, drivers can take the San Antonio de Belén exit off the Interamericana.
A BEACON FOR BOOK LOVERS
Book-a-holics, rejoice! One of the best English-language bookstores in the country (if not
Central America) resides in Alajuela. Goodlight Books ( MAP GOOGLE MAP ; 2430-4083;
www.goodlightbooks.com ; Av 3 btwn Calles 1 & 3; 9am-6pm Sun-Fri, to 4pm Sat), managed by
longtime expat Larry Coulter, offers a selection of over 12,000 well-organized books (both
used and new). He also keeps a worthwhile stock of difficult-to-find books on Costa Rica,
a growing supply of Spanish-language titles and a sizable array of volumes in other
European languages.
Festivals & Events
In the town that gave birth to Juan Santamaría, it would be expected that the anniversary of
the Battle of Rivas , on April 11, would be particularly well celebrated. This momentous
event is commemorated with civic events, including a parade and lots of firecrackers.
Sleeping
Since Alajuela is so close to the international airport, most hotels and B&Bs can arrange
airport transfers for a small fee (or for free, as noted in individual listings). If you are driv-
ing your own car, note that many places in the city center don't have dedicated parking,
but there are many guarded lots available. Also, expect street noise to be a fact of life.
As in other spots, taxi drivers will try to steer you to places that pay them a commission.
Remember: be skeptical, don't believe everything you hear and if you're unsure about
where you've chosen to stay, ask to see a room.
A few of the budget hotels also offer dorm rooms. All top-end hotels accept credit cards,
as do most midrange spots.
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