Twenty-first century living in a 19th century ambience – step out of this contemporary three-bedroom, two-bath 2,315 sq ft fifth-floor apartment unit and suddenly you are transported back in time to San José at the turn of the 20th century. Historic Barrio Amón right in the center of Costa Rica's capital is the location of this modern apartment building containing this elegant unit which features a spacious living/dining room ensemble with floor-to-ceiling windows offering a splendid view of Simón Bolívar Park and Zoo, the San José cityscape and the rolling Central Valley hills, a recently remodeled modern kitchen and maid's quarters. This modern, secure apartment building in the center of San José, surrounded by unique restored 19th and early 20th-century architectural monuments and homes is just a few minutes walk from the Simón Bolívar Park; Instituto Nacional de Seguros building: Casa Amarilla (Ministry of Foreign Affairs); the Jade and Gold Museums; Parque Morazán; Parque Nacional, National Registry, Avenida Central Boulevard; the Calderón Guardia Hospital; the Automercado supermarket; Holiday Inn and Sleep Inn Hotels, and well-known restaurants such as Balcón de Europa and Café Mundo. A five-minute drive west takes you to the highway leading to Costa Rica's Central Pacific and North Pacific beach resorts such as Jacó, Manuel Antonio, Tamarindo and Flamingo.

The three bedrooms are all large and have wonderful views of San José and environs. There is also a laundry room, underground parking for two vehicles and a storage area. This is the perfect diplomat's residence or home for the person or family that relishes downtown living.

LOCATION: Barrio Amón, center of San José, just north of the Instituto Nacional de Seguros

PRICE: $375,000

For another exclusive San José condo, see Superb two-storey Parque La Sabana condominium