Occidental El Tucano

This was an absolute nightmare. We were far from anything worth seeing, and the customer service was poor. They advertised free breakfast, but every day it was rice, awful eggs, plantain, and sausage, with no variety. The pool was dirty, and the bathtub was a blue one painted purple. The paint was peeling, so it looked old and filthy. We got only two towels for our family of four. Cleanliness didn’t seem to matter, even though housekeeping said they came daily. The toilets were the worst. We had to call maintenance three times, and when we asked to switch rooms, they refused.

The beds and pillows are my least favorite part, and the rooms really need an update. Still, it’s good value, especially since some resorts cost twice as much. If you know about the drawbacks going in, you’ll be happy. I’ll keep coming back. I’ve been to El Tucano quite a few times over the years. There are several hot spring pools and a river to enjoy, the food is good, and the people are nice. I especially love the Gallo Pinto breakfast.

I’ve had a seven-night stay per year, plus massages, for seven years. My contract is almost halfway through. I like the atmosphere, and the front desk staff know me and greet me like family every time I visit.

I used to stay here many times, but the place has gone downhill. I mainly came for the thermal waters. The restaurant staff are usually polite and good, though the food is only average. For years they’ve said the oven is broken, with no sign of fixing it. At the front desk, Juan Carlos is the only one who seems attentive and gives good, polite service. The others don’t seem to enjoy their work. The rooms cost far too much for their quality. I stayed elsewhere this time and don’t think I’ll return. They need to lower the rates. There isn’t even a mini fridge for water, and the beer selection is very limited. No Pilsen 6.0, which is a dealbreaker.