Hotel Kasha

“Mistake.” Having stayed at five different places in PV, this was by far the worst for the same price. There was no charm or resort feel, just a box room and the fact that you’re in Costa Rica. This could work for a group wanting zero-frills lodging and a tin roof overhead, but I’d tell anyone else to pass. There are plenty of other places nearby at the same price. The property is far enough from town that tour drivers won’t come down there and taxi drivers don’t seem to know where it is. Bike rentals for the five-mile ride to town cost double the usual price. Beaches are across the road or half a mile down it, not as close as they make out. There are no local amenities nearby. Puerto Viejo is a long way off in local terms, and so are Manzanillo and Punta Uva. Without a vehicle, you’re stuck here. When we arrived, we were “upgraded” to a room with three double beds, basically a shared room dressed up to hide a group hostel setup. It smelled like old alcohol and the beds weren’t made. The rooms had no decoration and were so forgettable it’s hard to describe them. The pool, if you can call it that, was pathetic, and the landscaping seemed like a joke. The property is one of these new places that puts up a few square buildings called “cabanas,” turns the existing house into a restaurant and office, then presents itself as a resort to charge $100 a night or more. This is the sort of place locals complain about because it damages the local vibe and seems to exist for greed. Don’t be taken in by the restaurant’s positive ratings. It has five stars, while accommodation reviewers mention bugs, spiders, and filth. This isn’t Pura Vida, except for the owner making money.

The place felt neglected and wasn’t very clean. There were spiders everywhere, and the showers didn’t work well. They offer hot water, but we had to ask twice for repairs. If you’re into something rustic, then okay!

The staff were so friendly, and the typical breakfast was tasty. Our room was really clean, too. Kasha is a cozy, amazing place to stay, surrounded by jungle gardens and close to the beaches.

A simple, big barn, good for an easy Sunday lunch. The guacamole and nachos were great. It’s very laid back, with hammocks for resting, though the bar looks like it can get pretty lively at night.