Costa Rica Area Info: Central Valley: Costa Rica Hotels: Things to Do: San Jose: Central Valley Hotels: Central Valley Restaurants Costa Rica Hotels: Central Valley: Places to Eat

San Jose Guide:
San Jose, the Capital of Costa Rica, is the hub of all transportation in Costa Rica. For that reason, it is usually the first place you will visit while in Costa Rica. It lies between three Costa Rica volcanoes. There is a large variety of Costa Rica hotels, parks, restaurants and attractions for visitors. The first thing noticed about San Jose is the local friendliness. The city is set up on a pretty logical grid system. When on foot and touring the capital, Costa Ricans, also known as Ticos, are always willing to lend a hand with directions. Always remember though, locals use landmarks not street names for directions, and if you just can't figure out where you are, find a local church. Every church in Costa Rica faces west. While in the Capital, you have access to the best public transportation in all of Central America.  

Hotel Grano de Oro

Costa Rica San Jose's Hotel Grano de Oro offers 35 units with many amenities

San José boasts dozens of old homes that have been converted into hotels, but few offer the luxurious accommodations or professional service that can be found at the Grano de Oro. Located on a quiet side street off Paseo Colón, this small hotel offers a variety of room types to fit most budgets and tastes. Personally, I prefer the patio rooms, which have French doors opening onto private patios. However, if you want a room with plenty of space, ask for one of the deluxe rooms, which have large, modern, tiled bathrooms with big tubs. All rooms are nonsmoking.

Throughout all the guest rooms, you'll find attractive hardwood furniture, including old-fashioned wardrobes in some rooms. For additional luxuries, you can stay in one of the suites, which have whirlpool tubs. The Vista de Oro suite is the hotel's crown jewel, with its own private staircase and wonderful views of the city and surrounding mountains. If you don't grab a suite, you still have access to the hotel's two rooftop Jacuzzis. The hotel's gorgeous patio-garden restaurant serves excellent international cuisine and some of the best desserts in the city.

The owners of this hotel, Eldon and Lori Cooke, are the prime movers behind a noble shelter for young, unwed mothers, Casa Luz. Feel free to inquire as to how you can help.

Location: Between avs. 2 and 4, 150m (1 1/2 blocks) south of Paseo Colón, In La Sabana/Paseo Colón
Phone: 255-3322
Fax: 221-2782
Room Information: 35 units with TV, minibar and safe
Rates: $90 - $125 double, $150 - $255 Suite
Credit Cards: AE, MC, V
Amenities: Restaurant; lounge; 2 rooftop Jacuzzis; tour desk; laundry service

Facilities:
Restaurant; lounge; 2 rooftop Jacuzzis; concierge; tour desk; limited room service (6am-10pm); laundry service; nonsmoking rooms