The White House

The White House

No, this has nothing to do with George W. Bush or Pennsylvania Avenue, not even the election!

The White House, as it is known today, was built at the behest of the Shah of Iran, back in the times when he was allowed to be the Shah of Iran. Sad part of the story is that the shah never saw his completed villa. Fast forward to today, and we find that that this White House eerily looks like the White House as you drive onto the grounds, with pillars and posts, but therein is pretty much the end of the similarities.

I’ve only been there 3-4 times, once paid for by my mother to celebrate my birthday and the other two times paid by others in celebration of something requiring someone else again to pay the check.

I did recently take Cheryl, my supporting wife, to thank her for all she does for me and while the check was big, the payment was small. She undoubtedly helps me for way more than I give her credit.

Anyway, the White House has an exit off the Pista (main highway) and after meandering up through Escazu, you find yourself at a wonderful restaurant, hotel, casino, spa, Harley rental, and who knows what else and, as mentioned, in the architecture and abiding service found at a place known as the White House.

White House Costa Rica is only 15 minutes from downtown San Jose and 25 minutes from the Juan Santamaría International Airport. If you find an excuse to treat yourself or just want to do it anyway, I highly recommend the White House restaurant as a $13 hamburger has to be something special, and it is. Cheryl and I usually split the salad and burger, but not the bread pudding dessert, and we leave quite content. The chef is from Alaska, and without fail he will personally make your acquaintance and learn who you are and how you enjoyed your meal. And trust me, the menu goes nothing but up from the burger end.

The White House has an absolutely breathtaking view of San Jose and the Central Valley, and the views from the restaurant are nothing short of spectacular. And if you sense you might arrive late, simply have James warm up the helicopter and you can be in a matter of minutes right outside the restaurant.

Pura Vida!