Hotel Puerto Viejo

Such friendly, lovely people, and a great location. There are big social spaces and different kinds of rooms, plus a really large kitchen. They also have fun social events and games like table tennis and billiards.

The main downside for us was the mosquitoes. They got into our dorm easily, and all the plants and shrubs seemed to attract even more. Bring bug spray and something for the itching. The dorms were where we had the problem, though they also have nicer rooms. The place is right in the middle of Puerto Viejo, within walking distance of the bus station, beach for snorkeling, and plenty of other activities. Staff were helpful, the property was cleaned regularly, and there are lots of seats and places to hang out.

Set among pretty gardens, this spacious hostel is in a very central spot and offers great value. The rooms could use a little care and updating.

I called about a room and was quoted a price and told there was vacancy. When I arrived 30 minutes later, they said there was no room available and that the room they'd offered was "blocked." They were rude and asked me to move my car out of the parking area. If they'd run out of rooms, they could at least have let me find somewhere else.