Costa Rica Central Market
Want to experience true Costa Rican culture during your upcoming cheap car rental Costa Rica vacation? Then grab your travel mates and head over to the Central Market, located in San Jose's center. Costa Rica's Central Market, or Mercado Central, is a well-known place, where many tourists come to experience the rituals of daily Costa Rican life. In fact, the Central Market is one of the most representative places of old San Jose, along with the Central Plaza and the National Theater. So whether you're hunting for a unique souvenir, or simply looking for a place to people watch, the Costa Rica Central Market is a great place to start.
A quick history of the market
The Central Market was founded back in 1882. At that time, San Jose was called "La Buca del Monte" and was little more than a local gathering ground. The market quickly grew to have a life of its own, and it wasn't long before the small commercial area became the main entrance to Costa Rica's central area. Many farmers would eventually settle in the area with their families, marking the beginning of the future metropolitan area. The market has been remodeled several times since opening; however, the structure still maintains its original labyrinth-like layout. Cheap car rental Costa Rica travelers will find several doors in and out of the market, each flowing to a main street or avenue in the capital city.
Enjoy a hearty meal at the market
If you're planning to visit the Central Market during your upcoming cheap car rental Costa Rica vacation, remember to come on an empty stomach. Traditional food restaurants are the Central Market's main attractions, providing visitors with medley of local flavors. Delicious, steaming food is served into big pots for your dining delight, so don't be shy. Many of the dishes prepared at the market are based on age-old recipes, and include only the finest local ingredients. Popular dishes worth trying include casados (rice, beans, salad, cheese, plantains, tortillas and meat) and gallo pinto (rice with beans). And if you need something to wash it all down, try an agua dulce (water with a touch of sugar candy). Sweets also abound in the market, so don't forget to grab a few to snack on later. Cheap car rental Costa Rica travelers are encouraged to try guava marmalade, figs in syrup mangoes, sugary bananas and delectable fried plantains.
What you'll find at the market
While some souvenirs and handicrafts can be found here, the Central Market is stocked mainly for San Jose locals, and thus is a great destination for sampling some authentic urban cultural and locally grown produce. The complex of narrow alleyways is home to more than 200 stalls, each with its own unique collection of offerings. Items range from snakeskin boots and cowboy sandals to herbal remedies, flowers, and vegetables. To the north of the market, cheap car rental Costa Rica travelers will find the Mercado Borbon, which is known for housing numerous butchers, fishmongers and fruit vendors.
No trip to Costa Rica would be complete without a trip to the Central Market. Where else can you buy a pair of $3 sandals at one vendor, and then head next door to purchase pigs' feet? This unique destination is a true slice of local life and should not be missed. Plus, you never know what you'll find on display at the many booths and vendors. Cheap car rental Costa Rica travelers will find the Central Market between Avenida Central, Avenida 1 and Calles 6 and 8. The market is open from 6:30 am to 6:30pm Monday through Saturday. See you there!