Hotel Belén Suites

I was weighing this place against an American chain, and I’m glad I chose to stay here. The owner was a great host, and staying here made my Costa Rican experience feel like it lasted one more night. I’ll stay here again when I fly out of San Jose. The owner is the best!

The owner is a real treasure, welcoming and always willing to listen or help make a guest’s stay better. She can arrange transportation, suggest places to visit or eat, and pretty much act as your concierge. We’ve become good friends and stay at her suites most times we pass through SJO. It may not feel quite like an American five-star hotel, but it’s a great place for travelers coming to or through San Jose, Costa Rica. If you’re looking for a more local experience, don’t pass these suites up for the big American chains.

The rooms were spacious, clean, and the breakfast was great. The owner was very friendly, speaks English, and is local, though she used to live in the U.S. The place felt very safe, with a gated parking lot, and it’s close to the airport. I highly recommend it.

I have no real complaints. Ely, the owner, helped with everything I needed. Just keep in mind there’s no airport shuttle, though they can arrange a private ride.