Gay-Friendly Fun in Costa Rica

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You gotta hand it to Costa Rica's gays. They have some of the funnest clubs in San José. And they're straight friendly, which explains why there's usually lots of women and couples on weekends.

The three hot tickets are Bolinche, La Avispa, and Club Oh!

Bolinche, on Calle 11 between Avenidas 10 & 12, is known for its drag shows. The gay crowd tends towards upscale here. The bi-level nightclub has a large-screen and multiple-screen panel on both floors. Time your visit for Thursday night for the popular drag show, which attracts both female (straight and lesbian) and males (predominantly gay).

With its huge disco with laser lights and spinning globes, Club Oh! (formerly Deja Vu) is considered the top gay club in town and draws an elegantly dressed upscale crowd. The two DJs here spin great tunes, with something for everyone (from 80s faves to techno). The club has special events and great variety shows on Saturday, including talent competitions on Friday nights.

La Avispa, at Calle 1 between Avenidas 8 and 10, is considered one of San José's top discos. Hidden behind unassuming doors in a low-class barrio, you'll be amazed to find a top-notch disco on two levels. It draws fashionistas, both gay and straight. "The Wasp" has been thriving since the late 1970s as San José's top gay and lesbian club.

Once inside, you'll be astounded to find a disco, which gets packed with young, stylish partyers of both genders. The dance floor pulses to heaving bodies moving to fantastic dance tunes beneath a huge globe and a vast battery of laser lights.

Caution is required, as most gay clubs are located in a rough part of town, south of downtown. Whatever you do, DO take a taxi.

For further information about travel in Costa Rica, buy Moon Costa Rica.

If you're traveling only to San José and the Caribbean, buy Moon Spotlight Costa Rica's Caribbean Coast.

If you're traveling only to the beaches of Nicoya, buy Moon Spotlight Costa Rica's Nicoya Peninsula.

If you're traveling only to Arenal and/or Monteverde, buy Moon Spotlight Costa Rica's Arenal & Monteverde.

Disclosure: I occasionally accept free or discounted travel when it coincides with my editorial goals. However, my opinion is never for sale. The opinions you see in Cuba & Costa Rica Journal are my unbiased reflection of the good, the bad, and the ugly.

Copyright © Christopher P. Baker