Hotel Destinos Arenal

The pool area is gorgeous and well built, and it's pretty amazing to swim at the base of a volcano. The restaurant is awesome, and the staff were super friendly. The rooms are basic and small, nothing fancy, but have everything you need. There's a market just down the street. And if you see the little white dog, she's so friendly and loving. I'd desperately like to bring her back to the USA with me, so give her lots of love.

The hotel itself is basic for the price, but clean and has what you need: AC, good water pressure, clean towels, and soap. The walls are thin, so you can hear your neighbors and cars on the road, and all the rooms are on the ground floor. I'm giving it five stars for the hospitality. I was traveling last minute and needed help arranging an affordable ride to SJO airport, getting a fridge for some perishable food I'd stupidly brought, and reaching international customer service about credit card and flight problems. I also needed help booking tours and getting recommendations for things to do nearby. Hugo was working at the front desk and went out of his way to help with all of it, and succeeded. By the end of my three-night visit, I felt comfortable knowing I was well supported as a guest.

The staff were great, but the place itself was awful. Our room had cracked walls with holes, a full-grown cockroach on the floor and another in the bed, and no blanket. The rooms didn’t even have consistent basics like AC or WiFi, and the furniture looked like it had extra pieces bolted on. None of the rooms seemed remotely alike. I’d give it zero stars if I could.

The concierge clerk, who I think was also the owner, was very helpful. Breakfast was included, and the hotel is just minutes from the town center and close to the area's main attractions. They also have deals with some tour and service providers. The rooms feel rustic and authentic, though WiFi may be poor if you’re in one of the cabins farther away.