Barrio Escalante: The Bohemian Heart of San Jose

• HelloHola
  [oh-lah]
• GoodbyeAdiós
  [ah-dee-ohs]
• YesSí
  [see]
• NoNo
  [noh]
• Please/You're welcomePor favor/De nada
  [por fah-vor/deh nah-dah]
• Thank youGracias
  [grah-see-ahs]
• Excuse me/SorryDisculpe/Perdón
  [dees-cool-peh/pehr-dohn]
• How are you?¿Cómo estás?
  [koh-moh ehs-tahs]
• Fine. And you?Bien. ¿Y tú?
  [byen. ee too]
• Do you speak English?¿Hablas inglés?
  [ah-blahs een-glehs]
• I don't understandNo entiendo
  [noh ehn-tee-ehn-doh]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseMe gustaría ver el menú, por favor
  [meh goos-tah-ree-ah behr ehl meh-noo, por fah-vor]
• I don't eat meatNo como carne
  [noh koh-moh kahr-neh]
• Cheers!¡Salud!
  [sah-lood]
• I would like to pay, pleaseMe gustaría pagar, por favor
  [meh goos-tah-ree-ah pah-gahr, por fah-vor]

• Help!¡Ayuda!
  [ah-yoo-dah]
• Go away!¡Vete!
  [veh-teh]
• Call the Police!¡Llame a la policía!
  [yah-meh ah lah poh-lee-see-ah]
• Call a doctor!¡Llame a un médico!
  [yah-meh ah oon meh-dee-koh]
• I'm lostEstoy perdido
  [ehs-toy pehr-dee-doh]
• I'm illEstoy enfermo
  [ehs-toy ehn-fehr-moh]

• I'd like to buy...Me gustaría comprar...
  [meh goos-tah-ree-ah kohm-prahr]
• I'm just lookingSolo estoy mirando
  [soh-loh ehs-toy mee-rahn-doh]
• How much is it?¿Cuánto cuesta?
  [kwan-toh kweh-stah]
• That's too expensiveEso es demasiado caro
  [eh-soh ehs deh-mah-see-ah-doh kah-roh]
• Can you lower the price?¿Puede bajar el precio?
  [pweh-deh bah-hahr ehl preh-see-oh]

• What time is it?¿Qué hora es?
  [keh oh-rah ehs]
• It's one o'clockEs la una en punto
  [ehs lah oo-nah ehn poon-toh]
• Half past (10)Y media (10)
  [ee meh-dee-ah (diez)]
• MorningMañana
  [mah-nyah-nah]
• AfternoonTarde
  [tahr-deh]
• EveningNoche
  [noh-cheh]
• YesterdayAyer
  [ah-yehr]
• TodayHoy
  [oy]
• TomorrowMañana
  [mah-nyah-nah]
• 1Uno
  [oo-noh]
• 2Dos
  [dohs]
• 3Tres
  [trehs]
• 4Cuatro
  [kwah-troh]
• 5Cinco
  [seen-koh]
• 6Seis
  [sehs]
• 7Siete
  [syeh-teh]
• 8Ocho
  [oh-choh]
• 9Nueve
  [nweh-veh]
• 10Diez
  [dee-ehs]

• Where's a/the...?¿Dónde está...?
  [dohn-deh ehs-tah]
• What's the address?¿Cuál es la dirección?
  [kwal ehs lah dee-rehk-syohn]
• Can you show me (on the map)?¿Puede mostrarme (en el mapa)?
  [pweh-deh mohs-trar-meh (ehn ehl mah-pah)]
• When's the next (bus)?¿Cuándo es el siguiente (autobús)?
  [kwan-doh ehs ehl see-gwee-ehn-teh (ow-toh-booce)]
• A ticket (to ....)Un boleto (a ....)
  [oon boh-leh-toh (ah)]

Barrio Escalante, one of San Jose's oldest neighborhoods, began to take shape in the late 19th century. With the expansion of the coffee industry, it became a residential area for the affluent coffee planters and emerging middle class. The architecture from this period reflects a blend of neoclassical and Victorian styles, showcasing the prosperity brought by coffee exports.

By the early 20th century, Barrio Escalante evolved into a cultural and artistic center. The neighborhood became home to many artists, writers, and intellectuals, contributing to the vibrant cultural landscape of San Jose. The establishment of theaters, galleries, and cafés solidified its reputation as a hub for creativity and expression, paving the way for future generations of Costa Rican artists.

In the 21st century, Barrio Escalante experienced significant gentrification, transforming from a traditional residential area into a trendy neighborhood known for its culinary scene and vibrant nightlife. The influx of new restaurants, breweries, and art spaces has revitalized the area while maintaining its historical charm. This transformation reflects the broader urban development trends in San Jose, as the city adapts to contemporary lifestyles.

As the cultural significance of Barrio Escalante grew, so did efforts to preserve its historical architecture and cultural identity. Local government and community organizations have initiated various projects aimed at maintaining the neighborhood's character, promoting sustainable tourism, and celebrating its rich history. Events such as art walks and cultural festivals are held regularly, showcasing the neighborhood's heritage.

Today, Barrio Escalante stands as a testament to San Jose's evolving identity, blending history with modernity. It is recognized as a culinary hotspot, attracting both locals and tourists eager to experience its diverse gastronomic offerings. The neighborhood continues to serve as a vibrant community space, where history, art, and culture intersect in the heart of Costa Rica's capital.

Barrio Escalante is conveniently located within San Jose, making it accessible from various neighborhoods. From downtown San Jose, you can take a taxi or use rideshare services like Uber, which are widely available. Alternatively, public buses run regularly to the area from different parts of the city. If you're coming from the airport, consider taking a taxi directly to Barrio Escalante, as it is approximately 16 kilometers away and a 30-minute drive under normal traffic conditions.

Barrio Escalante is a walkable neighborhood, allowing visitors to explore its vibrant streets on foot. For longer distances, local buses connect Barrio Escalante to other parts of San Jose, and taxis or rideshare services are also readily available. Bicycle rentals are popular, and several cafes and shops cater to cyclists, offering a bike-friendly atmosphere. Additionally, some areas have designated bike lanes for safer travel.

Barrio Escalante is generally considered safe for tourists, but standard precautions should still be observed. Avoid walking alone at night in poorly lit areas, and be mindful of your belongings in crowded places. Certain areas of San Jose, particularly around the central market and some neighborhoods further from Escalante, have higher crime rates, especially for petty crimes like pickpocketing. Staying vigilant and aware of your surroundings is advisable.

In case of an emergency, dial 911 for police, fire, or medical assistance. Local hospitals and clinics are available in San Jose, and it is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, there are pharmacies in the area where you can purchase over-the-counter medications. Always keep a copy of your passport and emergency contacts handy.

Fashion: Do wear comfortable clothing suitable for warm weather, and consider modesty when visiting religious sites or local homes. Don't wear expensive jewelry that might attract unwanted attention. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions, particularly in places of worship. Public Transport: Do be courteous and offer your seat to the elderly. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'Hola' and a smile. A handshake is customary. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes at the many restaurants and cafes. Don't refuse food or drink when offered, as it may be seen as impolite.

To experience Barrio Escalante like a local, visit the many cafes and restaurants that showcase Costa Rican cuisine, particularly the popular 'sodas' for traditional meals. Take a stroll through the neighborhood to enjoy its street art and local galleries. Engage with locals, as they often enjoy sharing stories and recommendations. Don't miss the weekly farmer's market, where you can find fresh produce and handcrafted goods. Additionally, participate in local events or festivals if your visit coincides with them for a more immersive experience.