LOOKING DOWN PASEO COLON 
On the left may be seen some of the new chalets that are being erected along this boulevard 
SAN JOSE 
9 
I he journey to the Costa Rican Capital, whether it be 
from the Atlantic or the Pacific is not only through miles of 
natural wonderlands but if the traveler cares to delve into 
the historic phase of roadbuilding he has here worthwhile 
examples of engineering skill and human endurance. 
As will be seen from the map on another page, the plan of 
San Jose is that of streets and avenues crossing at right 
angles and running north and south and east and west. 
The broad Paseo de Colon named in honor of the Great 
Discoverer is the chief thoroughfare connecting the heart of 
the city with La Sabana. At about the halfway point stands 
a high obelisk dedicated to the memory of Columbus. Within 
recent years avenues, streets and sidewalks have been modernly 
paved and the use of motor vehicles of all kinds has become 
popular. But still the picturesque carts are to be seen. 
While many of the older residences are of the usual Spanish- 
American style of architecture of one and two story structures 
the more recent buildings are higher. Some of them, like the 
Grand Hotel Costa Rica, are four or more stories. Another 
attractive feature of San Jose is the number of fine ornamental 
trees that stand in the numerous parks or border the streets, 
such as the beautiful trees that adorn Paseo de Colon. Need¬ 
less to say, the capital city enjoys abundant electric light 
service supplied by the harnessing of water power in the 
suburbs. Electric lights and electric signs illumine streets and 
parks at night. 
Central Park in the heart of the city is always popular with 
the people of San Jose. Once a week in the evening a military 
band gives a concert which is attended by hundreds of citizens. 
But once a fortnight still larger crowds are attracted to this 
park. On these Sundays at noon the National Lottery holds 
its public drawings. The receipts from this institution are 
