Hotel Robledal in Costa Rica

If you wish to have a lovely introduction to Costa Rica before beginning your tour around the country or you want one last little bit of Costa Rica before leaving, I highly recommend Hotel Robledal (El Roble 124, Alajuela, Costa Rica; in US/Canada, 812/ 962-4386, hotelrobledal.com/en).

It’s located a mere 15 minutes from Juan Santamaría International Airport, outside San José, yet it carries the charm of Costa Rica instead of the feel of an airport hotel.

In January 2019, I was wonderfully pleased to have found this small, family-owned establishment. Located 400 meters west of a Catholic church, this little gem is in a commercial, down-market area behind a large, wrought-iron, locked gate. It serves as a conference/business hotel for locals and is a wonderful respite from noisy, car-choked San José.

As a bird-watcher, I loved the old-growth trees in the large area in back, which included a small pond and feeders. My room was comfortable, and the pool and outdoor sitting area were attractive. In addition to an open-air eating area, there was a bar.

I think I discovered this hotel when I noticed that a birding-tour company had included it in their itinerary. (Most birding-tour companies use Hotel Bougainvillea.) I then looked for reviews about Hotel Robledal.

I paid $90 for my stay there, which included breakfast, tax and a shuttle to the airport. Breakfast was substantial and delicious, including made-to-order eggs, fresh fruit, breads, yogurt, etc. Dinner was very tasty and reasonably priced ($10-$12 for a large entrée). The staff was helpful and friendly.

Feel free to write me for more info (ednarsalvarez.t@gmail.com).

EDNA R.S. ALVAREZ
Los Angeles, CA