Erasmus Experience in San Jose, Costa Rica by Célestine

Why did you choose to go to San Jose, Costa Rica?

I decided to discover this beautiful country for what people say about it: it's one of the most ecological in the world; it is well located between the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean Sea, it is home to lots of animal and plant species, it has a tropical climate... The volcanoes, waterfalls and rivers also await you.

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How long was your stay?

My stay lasted for 3 months.

What's the student atmosphere like in San Jose?

There are party nights all the time. You do need to be quite brave to go out along though, it's best to be with at least one other person.

Would you recommend the city and the University of San Jose to other students?

I would recommend it to real adventure seekers.

What's the food like in this country?

The typical cuisine isn't very varied as far as the meals are concerned: rice and beans as a base, spices, then fish or meat is added, and vegetables.

That said, there is an incredible number of exotic fruits to discover. The residents (the 'ticos') usually make fruit juices (fresco) every day.

Did you have any difficulty finding accommodation in San Jose?

No.

What is the cost of living in San Jose?

Food is not expensive if you eat like they do, however, if you look for home comforts the prices increase a lot.

Also, you've got to spot the good deals: buy what you need in a shop like "Pali"; go to the central market for meat, fish, fruit and vegetables. The price of apartments ranges, there's a mix of everything... The price of a night out could come to 15$, food and drink included.

How have you found learning the language? Have you attended language classes organises by the university?

Learning is pleasant, I already spoke European Spanish, but there are some variations here and a lovely melodious accent.

What's the cheapest way to get to San Jose from your city?

Being from France, of course it's cheapest to travel by plane (Iberia flights).

Where would you recommend to go out partying in San Jose?

I recommend any bar. San Pedro is the student area.

Which are your favourite places to eat in San Jose?

I like to eat in the central market. You can get very typical dishes there and the people are very welcoming, it's very traditional.

And which cultural trips do you recommend?

I would suggest going to the Teatro Nacional, and doing excursions such as Los Chorros waterfalls and Poas Volcano, which aren't far away.

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Any advice for future students in San Jose?

Be ready to completely change your way of life to come here! Costa Rica a great country with a good standard of living, the climate is super, especially between November and March/April, and the pace of life is very relaxed.