Central America - San Jose airport questions

I'd like to know if SJO is an easy airport for customs/immigration or it long lines are the norm. I am looking at a flight that arrives at 9pm and I am dbating what time I'll get to my hotel in town. (hotel is not booked at presend and I am looking at staying downtown) . Is the airport far from the city centre? Any help will be appreicated. Thanks.

it totally depends , personal guess you would be at your hotel at about 10:15 pm

just the ride from airport to city center can easily be 30 mins, depending on traffic

Unless you are staying in the city for a day or more, avoid the city/downtown area and stay close to the airport.

SJO is pretty easy, and cab doesn't take too long since it's relatively close.

Do not go walking around downtown San Jose at night, it can be dangerous. Normally no problems during day.

EmailKid

Just got back from SJO. Airport functions well.

I second the avoid San Jose comment. Not much to see there and crime and scams are more of a problem there than other places. Better to stay in Alajuela which is just a few k from the airport. You may also want to consider flying into Liberia in Northern CR. Hassle free airport and close to Pacific beaches.

Iirc, the Doubletree is just a few minutes away / under four miles and a nice hotel. We've stayed there when arriving or departing, and have no complaints. Much closer is the Hampton Inn in Alajuela - it's across the Panamericana and a few varas, er, meters away, near the rental car depots and several restaurants from the n.e. corner of Juan Santamaría airport.

Too bad about downtown San José - I remember when you could go strolling downtown at 2 AM and not be bothered by a soul; I'd not try it today. Many years ago, before Nicaragua's troubles and expansion into CR, but it was so at the time.

Too bad about downtown San José - I remember when you could go strolling downtown at 2 AM and not be bothered by a soul; I'd not try it today. Many years ago, before Nicaragua's troubles and expansion into CR, but it was so at the time.

you are dating yourself man, I am surprised I didnt get killed when I was in colleage and sometimes we ended up drinking in bars by the Central Park

the current efforts over here are towards making downtown liveable again, they are building a few 'high rise' towers (15-20 floors)

you are dating yourself man

No kidding ... it's been fifteen years or so since I first went to San José, and it wasn't very safe back then. Of course it got worse over the years :(

EmailKid