There is Always a Mall

Even here in Alajuela malls have made there entrance. Mall International is right along the Autopista and quite close to the airport. It is not large by our standards but as soon as you enter through the doors, that "mall" atmosphere is evident. Most of the stores are of the usual fare, shoes, clothes and gifts and most don't have international names on the door - except Pay Less Shoes and Levis. The food court however does feel like home as Taco Bell, KFC, Subway, Quiznos and Burger King are all there vying for your food dollars.

Scotiabank - which is one of the largest banks in Costa Rica - also has a prominent position. All banks here have guards at the doors. Rob was even asked to remove his hat when we entered, I guess they wanted his pretty face on the security camera! Any place where there may be large sums of money you will find an armed guard.

The large grocery store at the mall is also international as it is owned by Walmart although the name is not on the store outside. Inside however the staff's name tags have the Walmart logo and Exquate brand is everywhere.

There are other and larger malls in Costa Rica mainly in the San Jose - Heredia - Cartago area.

Mall International

"Walmart" entrance

Inside

One of the entances

Friendly Taco Bell Staff

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