both countries are very nice to visit, however, Managua and San Jose are cities you wanna avoid. You just fly into Managua and San Jose and then get out of there asap. Managua is a pretty ugly city, and San Jose is not much better. When in Nicaragua go to cities like Granada, Leon, and for partying on the beach San Juan del Sur. There are also very nice places in San Jose.
Costa Rica is a lot more expensive than Nicaragua and parts of CR are very Americanized.
You might wanna consider Panama as well.
I've only been to San Jose. I'm told it is the biggest city in Central America. Frankly that doesn't say much. I like the food, the people and the night life, but the city itself is just not that glorious a city. What is great about Costa Rica is the natural beauty, the jungle, the waterfalls and the beaches. So I would say pick San Jose, but to not stay there long. I would maybe like part of a weekend there if you want to go out on the town, but I would focus more on seeing Manuel-Antonio, Arenal Volcano or Guanacaste or Monteverde.
Nicaragua but not Managua! I say Granada San Juan del sur Leon and esteli city's in nicaragua
Costa Rica is for me number 1 choice! But if you only stay in San José, I can tell you that you'll not see what Costa Rica really is.
For me, the best places you must see in Costa Rica are: Manuel Antonio, Uvita, Dominical, Ojochal, Jaco or Puerto Viejo.
Have a good trip!
San Jose wins.
I am planning to go on a vacation to central america and I can't decide what city to go too. What do you guys think? Managua or San Jose? I would also like other suggestions for central american places to go. thanks guys =D
