Robles Hostel

The breakfast is good, though when the hostel gets busy they run out of quite a few things. The noise is the bigger problem: there are no quiet hours, the rooms don't block sound, and it can carry on well past midnight. Since the toilets are inside the bedrooms, people getting up to use them disturb anyone trying to sleep, especially when guests are drinking late. They also seem to check people in at any hour. When it's quiet, it's a great place, but when it's busy, the noise makes it a poor stay. It isn't as good as people say.

The pool area is a nice place to relax, and the staff were lovely. The hostel is clean and feels very new, with cozy beds and a really, really good breakfast. It's a little out of the way, though. If you want to visit the centre, you might prefer their other hostel, which is closer.

David, the main host, made the stay a lot of fun. He knows great places to eat and drink and is a fantastic guide to the city, with a clear hospitality background. The owners are incredibly kind too. The estate itself is amazing and full of history. I'd happily return.

Since moving to Costa Rica, I've stayed at most of the hostels in San Jose, and this one is by far my favorite. Escazu is beautiful, and the property is gorgeous, with a great staff and an awesome owner, Grace. Breakfast is included and was excellent, and everything was very clean. Don't miss the giant hammock, and there's also a lovely pool beneath the mango trees.