Rivera Family Airport Apartments

Take earplugs, since the airport is so close. I traveled alone and felt safe, with a taxi service picking me up from the airport. Breakfast and coffee were both great, and I have no complaints. The staff and owners were exceptionally kind and helpful. A great place for a night or two near the airport, and I’d recommend it!

It was handy for a one-night stop after we arrived late and had to wait until the next day for our car. The rooms were clean and fine for the price, and it’s only five minutes from the airport by taxi. The staff were very friendly and helpful. But the outside noise was extreme. The planes were expected, but the street partying, music, and karaoke were a lot. I was exhausted from jet lag, which helped, but I still woke up several times. On a normal day I don’t think I could have fallen asleep. Maybe Friday made it louder. The photo shows the view from our small balcony.

Sebastian coordinated with me in excellent English and picked me up from the airport, about 5-8 minutes away. Rivera family apartments is behind Juan Santamaria airport, though the winding road makes getting to the residential area take longer. Other nearby hotels and hostels are along the same road. From the hotel there’s a mountain view, and a two-minute walk gets you to a small park overlooking the airport. It was my first day in Costa Rica, so I spent some time exploring. The family-run room was small but cozy and had everything I needed: a kitchen with a microwave, coffee maker, and small dining table, plus a bedroom, bathroom, and little balcony. There’s also a pretty front porch where you can eat. Sebastian arranged a delicious vegetarian breakfast for us when we asked. It was a traditional Costa Rican breakfast with toast and juice. His mom Bertha later drove us to our destination in San Ramon province in her impressive pickup. We had a lovely conversation on the way, and she was happy to stop several times so we could admire the scenery and take pictures. She didn’t rush us like a typical designated driver might. I needed an inexpensive place with basic comforts for the night after my evening flight, before traveling to La Fortuna the next morning. Rivera family apartments gave me a great first impression of Costa Rica. I felt welcomed and made good friends. I’d recommend it for a budget-friendly night or two near the San Jose Airport.

After dark, the lights went out. Then at night, a group of boys unlocked my room and walked in using a key. As a woman traveling alone, I was shocked. There were roaches everywhere, and the sink leaked across the floor. It felt unsafe and unsanitary. Don’t stay here.