The minute you touch down in Costa Rica, you will know you have arrived at one of the world’s premier ecological destinations. Never before has such a dazzling array of natural wonders – active volcanoes, exotic wildlife, unspoiled beaches, wetland sanctuaries and dense forests been so readily accessible to explore.
Costa Rica, about the size of West Virginia USA, beckons with myriad choices of hotels and resorts. Costa Rica offers a wide range of lodgings in a variety of prices. There are cheap pensions, beach cabinas or cabins, budget hotels and luxury hotels. Whatever your budget, Costa Rica offers a place where you can stay in almost any part of the country.
Not planning to spend a fortune on accommodations? Costa Rica is teeming with comfortable and homey budget hotels. Rates for these nice budget hotels usually range from $50 - $75. Whether you choose a humble cabina or a posh suite, remember to make reservations well in advance especially during peak seasons.
Hotel Aranquez is one of San Jose’s most popular budget hotels. This family-run bed and breakfast offers the comfort of a Costa Rican home. It has extensive gardens and lively common areas where guest can engage in tete-a-tete. It has 33 rooms. Each room has a distinct motif. Some have private gardens and some have small sitting rooms. The complimentary breakfast buffet, a mouth-watering spread of eggs, pastries, tropical fruits and Costa Rica coffee is served on a relaxing palm-shaded garden patio. Hotel Aranquez is just a few minutes away from San Jose’s many attractions such as the National Park, Museo de Artes Costarrincense. Hotel amenities include private bath, hot water, cable television, direct dial phone, laundry service, safety deposit box and internet service.
Gran Hotel Costa Rica is aptly named. This 1930’s hotel was once the grand old dame of San Jose’s hotels. It has just gone through major renovations to reclaim its “gran” title again. Rooms are now larger with small windows and tiled baths. Gran Hotel Costa Rica is the prime choice of travelers who want to be where the fun is. It has a bar, a health club and a restaurant. The CafÈ 1930, in front of the hotel, is a convenient stop for a bite any time of the day. It is open 24 hours a day.
The classy hotel, Hotel Le Bergerac, occupies two former private homes and is decorated with antiques. All rooms, 20 of them, have custom-made dressers and writing tables. Deluxe rooms are twin-sharing with two beds, a private balcony and a spacious bathroom. Perched on a steep hill, the hotel provides guests with a magnificent mountain panorama. L’lle de France, its restaurant, is one of the best in San Jose. Breakfast is served on the garden patio. Impeccable service and a beautiful location set this hotel apart.
In La Fortuna, Arenal, Luigi’s Lodge attracts numerous guests. This small cozy hotel has a commanding view of the imposing Arenal Volcano. It has 20 air-conditioned rooms complete with bath tub and hot water. Amenities include a large swimming pool, jacuzzi, private parking and daily shuttle service. The hotel is near Arenal Volcano National Park, Tabacon Resort and Hot Spring. Guests can take a hike to the volcano, go whitewater rafting, canopy tours and horseback riding to Monteverde and much more.
While the garden restaurant is the main attraction at the elegant Villa del Sueno Hotel in Playa Hemosa, its rooms are never far behind. The superior rooms are spacious with bamboo furniture, two double beds and brand new closets. The standard rooms around the pool area have no air-conditioning but high ceilings, good ventilation and fans keep the room comfortably cool. For longer stays, there are 12 apartments to choose from.
So, kick back and enjoy your stay at these cozy and affordable budget-friendly hotels. They are sure to leave you with the best vacation memories.