In countless tourist guides and even on occasion shown in traveller-oriented shows we've seen depictions of San Jose: it looks grey, perhaps not too "squarely", indeed colourful but certainly not one of those beautiful Spanish fortified cities that seem to spring from all around, except anywhere within this unusual country.

But it must be accounted that, despite the hoards of tourist buses taking off with it's high valued dollar clientele over all remote and green locations, if one chooses to dismiss San Jose for something of a one night stop, one would be greatly mistaken. For this city holds, hidden within the spirits of it's varied and not very outspoken lot, an impressive palette of possibilities and outright fun.

Unlike the Spanish and their die-hard approach to never-ending soirees, or the Mexican chanteuse taste in party rendering, the people of San Jose -or should one say the Central Valley, for there is a large difference in lifestyles in the rest of the country- have not themselves defined one single meaning of Nightlife. Generations generally mark the dividing factor, whereas one can easily attain that the elderly much rather enjoy spending time at home while the young preside over the rule of the night.

The Costa Rican youth is one very fine and odd compound of personalities and tastes, that permit for a somewhat small in scale but vibrant cultural niche. The lacking of a strong latino -should one call it also Hispanic- element bred about the kaleidoscope of likes and affinities of the average citizen; Rock, Jazz, Electronic, Traditional and Tropical Music lead the tendencies alongside smaller representation of all imaginable pop expressions.

The Arts are ultimately neither rendered forsaken, despite the general appearance of San Jose as a culture bereft town, the average San Jose Joe does tend to keep his aspirations towards a more cultural level. Theatres weakly present plays of folkloric undertone as well as more classic materials. Opera and Dance are slowly growing their venue and concerts can often be found for the enjoyment of those who prefer acts of a more mainstream touch.