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The best areas to stay in San José are Escazú or Santa Ana, both known for their upscale amenities and convenient access to the city's highlights.Escazú is a popular choice for those seeking a sophisticated base. It's an affluent suburb west of the city centre, known for its modern shopping centres, high-quality restaurants, and pleasant residential areas. The main thoroughfare, Avenida Escazú, offers a range of dining and shopping options, and it's well-connected for exploring both San José and the surrounding Central Valley.For couples looking for a relaxed yet refined experience, Escazú offers a good balance. You'll find boutique hotels and luxurious accommodations with features like outdoor pools and high-end fitness equipment. The area provides a tranquil escape from the city's hustle but keeps you close to cultural attractions and gourmet dining.Santa Ana, just west of Escazú, provides a similar upscale experience with a slightly more laid-back character. It's known for its well-maintained streets, golf courses, and a growing number of excellent eateries. It benefits from its proximity to the main highway, making day trips to areas like Poás Volcano or the Pacific coast quite straightforward.For business travellers, Santa Ana is particularly convenient due to its easy access to corporate parks and the international airport, which is about a 20-minute drive away.

The best time to visit San José, Alajuela Province, Costa Rica, is during the dry season, which runs from December to April.During these months, you'll experience pleasant, sunny weather with less humidity, making it ideal for exploring the city and enjoying outdoor activities. Temperatures are consistently warm, typically ranging from the low 20s to high 20s Celsius. This period is superb for travellers who want to avoid heavy rain and prefer clear skies for sightseeing.For those looking to explore the natural beauty surrounding San José, such as visiting volcanoes or coffee plantations, the dry season ensures better road conditions and clearer views. It's also an excellent time for couples who enjoy walking around and discovering local markets or historical sites without the interruption of rain showers.While the dry season is popular, it also means it's peak tourist season, so you might find more people around and potentially higher prices for flights and accommodation.