Residence Inn By Marriott San Jose Alajuela El Coyol

We’d come back, especially since this hotel works well when you land on a late flight and want to head to the coast the next morning. José, I think, welcomed us, checked us in, and made sure we had everything. Our room was spacious, clean, and comfortable for our family of four. Breakfast was included, and it was much better than I expected.

The 10th-floor patio was the cherry on top, with panoramic views and really good food. I also loved how easy it was to get outside for a walk. Across the road, I turned left and followed the sidewalk. There were industrial buildings, but also lovely trees and cows in a field, and within minutes I was in a small town with supplies for my room, plus beer, wine, and coolers. The hotel is beautiful and away from the noise and traffic in town, though still a short drive from the airport. My room was stunning and had everything I needed. The front desk team were wonderful, especially Mario and Silvia, along with others whose names I’ve forgotten. Well done, Residence Inn by Marriott.

Our flight was delayed, so my family and I stayed here on a Monday night. We arrived around 11 pm and saw several women being dropped off, then taken upstairs to rooms by men from the lobby. The place felt more like a brothel. It’s in an industrial area and was noisy even from the eighth floor. We won’t be back.

The building is quite nice, but the heating doesn’t work. That’s the main reason for my poor review. Until they fix it, I’d rather stay somewhere with working heat.