Gran Hotel Costa Rica San Jose

I have traveled to 20 countries and throughout the USA, and I can´t think of a more beautiful, elegant, friendly, well-kept hotel than this one.

Besides being right in the center of the city, within walking distance from all major attractions and adjacent to el Teatro Nacional, Gran Hotel Costa Rica is a landmark, dating back to 1930.

The hotel has a tour desk that arranges several guided tours to ecological wonders about an hour´s drive away. I booked myself for a mere $90 to see La Paz Waterfalls, El Baurlio Parque (full of wildlife), and Volcano Poas. The price includes all entrance fees, breakfast, lunch and the bus ride back and forth.

There is also a free elegant breakfast buffet every morning, on the 5th floor where you get a gorgeous view of the city and nearby mountains. There is also a 24 hour restaurant with a pianist, and room service. There is a gym, and a 24 hour free billiards and Internet room (from where I am writing this review!)

The rooms are pretty and well-equipped, with cable and nicely kept bathrooms. The minibar has any toiletries you may have forgotten, but if you can hold out, pay a little less for them at one of the nearby farmacias.

Best of all, the staff rocks! They are always so cheerful and helpful!