Kaps Place

From the street, the hostel seemed small and a bit unwelcoming, but inside it felt like a little oasis in a city I found dirty. It always smelled lovely, and the staff were friendly and happy to answer anything we asked. They even photocopied our passports at 11:30 pm, which we needed for entering Panama. We had to pay 1000CRC, but still, how great was that? The hammocks, billiards, and table tennis in the common area were fun, and our clean, inexpensive room had everything we needed. After a month in Cuba, where prices and negotiating over everything had been a shock, I may be biased, but I’d choose this place again every single time I’m in San Jose.

The staff were great and helped with our SIM card problem even though it wasn’t their responsibility. The beds were comfortable, and breakfast was awesome, with a nice woman making eggs however you liked. I’d definitely stay again. There was only one hammock, though.

The hostel is really quiet, and the woman at reception is lovely. She sorts things out, including check-in and check-out, and they’ll call around for services like a rental car, taxi, trips, or tours. A great place to begin and end a trip.

Kaps Place was the only thing I booked before leaving NY on a spontaneous trip to Costa Rica, and it was a perfect place to start and finish an adventure. K organized and advised me through the next three weeks using her trusted network of hosts, including an east coast fishing village, a horse farm up north, Anja's villa in Tamarindo, and a beach tent camp in the south. That was 17 years ago, and I’m sure the place is still just as welcoming. Hosts with that kind of family service culture always take good care of you.