Ciudad Colon is a small town situated west of Santa Ana famous for its warm climate, proximity to nature and the surrounding mountains, folkloric traditions, horse riding AND multiculturalism. Some 6 km out into the hills is located the United Nations University for Peace, which annually brings over 200 students from all over the world to pursue their masters degrees in such a wide variety of academic disciplines as International Peace Studies, Conflict Resolution and Settlement of Disputes, Human Rights, Natural Resources Management and a lot more. The vast majority of students reside in Ciudad Colon, which definitely gives this little town a very distinct feel.

Demographically speaking, Ciudad Colon can probably be considered as cosmopolitan as Santa Ana or Escazu, but in terms of amenities and services available here, it definitely still needs to be considered a typical small Costa Rican town. It has its pros and cons. Cost of living is lower than in Santa Ana or Escazu. There is one major supermarket that meets the needs and requirements of any expatriate and dozens of other small stores, banks, pharmacies etc. There are no upscale bars or restaurants but there are many local venues, where you can eat well and have fun with the locals -- if that is your cup of tea. Great place for those that love the outdoors (horse riding, biking, running, hiking).