Discovering Costa Rica

Page 34

Markets

Mercado Central is the largest market in the city of San José, Costa Rica and is on the block of

Avenida Central. It is filled with food, clothing, and souvenirs. Two blocks to the north is

Mercado Borbón, which features butchers, fishmongers, fruit vendors, and much more. Some

people go to the markets just to look around at the goods being offered and immerse

themselves in the Costa Rican culture.

Grocery

Although very little English is spoken in Costa Rican grocery stores, they are generally clean

and well-stocked. Grocery stores in Costa Rica feature an array of products, including trendy

(although expensive) gluten free, and dairy free foods. For local foods, one will find many fresh

fruits and vegetables as well as plenty of meat counters.

The best place to buy produce is from local farmer’s markets, where they are often the

cheapest. You can also choose to shop at the plentiful local mini-marts or a supermarket such

as Auto Mercado, where there is a big variety of imported items, Mas x Menos, Walmart, and

Palí, which is actually owned by Walmart. You can also participate in membership shopping at

PriceSmart, which has locations in Escazú, Heredia, Tíbas, Alajuela, and Zapote.

Drugstores and Pharmacies

Pharmacies in Costa Rica are known as

farmacias

. These farmacias offer deodorant,

shampoos, vitamins, diapers, and many other goods besides drugs. Customers can buy drugs

over-the-counter that are usually prescription-based in North America and Europe. Below are

the most-frequented pharmacies.

Farmacia Sucre:

Fishel:

Farmacia La Bomba

Farmacia Chavarria:

A doctor’s appointment isn’t necessary for common illnesses. If a sick person goes to the

pharmacist and describes the symptoms he/she is experiencing, the pharmacist can

recommend a treatment on the spot.

24-Hour Services

Though difficult to find, there are a few shops and restaurants open 24 hours a day, including:

Food:

Soda Tapia and Denny’s

Gas:

Most gas stations offer 24-hour services

Grocery:

Freshmarket, Mas x menos and Walmart up to midnight.