Santa Ana, Costa Rica

Capital City

With a population of just over 13,000, Santa Ana is a rapidly developing Costa Rican town that's become a magnet for real estate and commercial growth. The once-sleepy district now boasts upscale amenities like gourmet restaurants and private schools - but that progress comes with trade-offs. Navigating the bureaucracy around public transportation can be a persistent headache, and the influx of new development has strained the city's infrastructure, making urban cycling and jogging riskier than in other communities. For those drawn to Santa Ana's modern conveniences and proximity to San José, it may be worth weighing the hassles against the benefits. But this is no longer your typical Costa Rican town.