Solamente mi en San Jose

Hola de San Jose!

Traveling alone is now my equivalent of a worthwhile therapy session. I like to think of myself as an independent woman (and I am!), but my life is so full of moments with others that I freak out slightly when faced with alone time. In fact, even when I am home alone I have a dog who provides my sounding board, a phone that connects to whomever will answer and this blog that...well, whatever it is that this blog does.

Since arriving in San Jose, I have impressed gringos with my Spanish (which is far from impressive to those that speak Spanish), traveled both successfully and unsuccessfully by taxi (the unsuccessful story will come soon), and have been staying at the BEST hostel in town. My hostel has not only provided me with a safe place to stay, but more importantly with knowledgable Ticos willing to share their culture and knowledge con una gringa.

Yesterday, I walked around town alone after having desayuno with a couple of new friends here. I did want to lure my new friends into spending the day with me (see the sentence # 3 above), but knew that that was imposing and contrary to my purpose of solo travel. So, I ventured around town alone and was constantly reminded how pretty my eyes are...but, Ticos are much smoother than most men. Nobody touched me, made me feel uncomfortable, or copped a feel. I can't say that about most places I know (including home!).

So, I ventured about and found a great vegetarian restaurant and coffee house. The coffee here is truly to die for, plus the meal I had for cena was worth way more than US$2! The veggie restaurant is named Vishnu, if you are ever here.

Now I am about to embark on another fun solo morning. I have been convinced to take the local bus to the airport to meet Liz and Kristen. The hostel owner and a couple of new friends have told me numerous times how to accomplish this mission and we have even done a few role plays over cervecas! So, I am empowered, ready to speak more Spanish and ready to have some familiar faces by my side!

Wish me luck!