Costa Rica Hotels: Heredia/Alajuela/Airport Area: Hampton Inn & Suites

Location Autopista General Canas, by the airport, Heredia/Alajuela/Airport Area
Phone 800/426-7866 in the U.S., 2436-0000
Fax 2442-2781
Room Information 100 units
Prices $123 (£62) double; $144 (£72) suite. Rates include buffet breakfast and airport shuttle
Credit Cards AE, DC, MC, V
In Room Amenities A/C, TV, dataport, minifridge, coffeemaker, hair dryer, iron
Parking Free parking

If familiarity, basic comfort, and proximity to the airport are important to you, then the Hampton Inn is your best bet. The rooms are what you'd expect from a well-known chain, and because the hotel is relatively new, they don't show much wear and tear. The hotel has both standard rooms and suites. Aside from being more spacious, the suites come with a minifridge and microwave oven. Breakfast is served, but no other dining options are on site; a Denny's and a separate Costa Rican fast-food chicken joint are just across the parking lot.

There's a large swank casino, with a popular bar, just steps away as well. This is a good choice if your plane arrives very late or leaves very early and you don't plan to spend any time in San José. Free local calls, high-speed Internet access in all rooms, and Wi-Fi in public areas are all perks that will appeal to business travelers and vacationers alike. In fact, those staying in the suites get free international calls, over the hotel's VoIP network.

Facilities: Bar; small pool; small exercise room; tour desk; business center; free Wi-Fi; babysitting; laundry service; nonsmoking rooms