Accommodation Costa Rica
Accommodation - Tourism is a well-established industry in Costa Rica and there is an extensive choice of hotels ranging from small budget options to expensive resorts. More unusual options include staying in a lodge in the rainforest or a working cattle ranch. Hotels are rated by the government’s Green Leaf programme, which looks at sustainable development, environmental friendliness and cultural-social awareness. 
The high season for accommodation coincides with the dry season (usual December-April, although this varies throughout the country). Many places raise their prices for the week between Christmas and New Year and the week before Easter (Semana Santa) and lower them during the rainy season. It is advisable to book well in advance if visiting during high season. There is a hotel tax which may or not be included in the advertised price, so check the small print. Boutique and luxury Although many of the hotels in the more indulgent price bracket are part of international chains, there are also numerous boutique hotels and unique establishments. The group ‘Small Distinctive Hotels of Costa Rica’ features six places that offer combination of luxury and originality. Boutique hotels are found in various settings around the country, from coffee plantations to beaches, but they share a preoccupation with aesthetic loveliness. These hotels are not cheap, but they are generally worth the money if you are looking for somewhere special to stay. Budget options There are numerous low-priced hotels and some hostels around the country catering for travellers on a budget. Facilities vary widely, as does the availability of hot water, although in the hottest parts of the country you really will not miss it. Many places described as cabinas (cabins) are in the budget range, as are hospedajes, albergues and posadas (all of which translate loosely as lodgings). Look for cheap lodgings in towns near popular national parks (e.g. Golfito, Quepos, Santa Elena, Tortuguero village). Ask to see rooms before you commit and check that they deem secure. Camping Accommodation - Many of the national parks have campsites, although in others camping is not permitted so always check in advance. Beach towns often have private campsites as well. Basic facilities (toilets, drinking water, cooking grills) are available at the campsites, but stock up on everything else you will need in advance as many are located in remote areas. Be kind to the environment by talking all rubbish away with you and using biodegradable products. Mosquitoes are present in their droves in the hot humid forest areas, making insect repellent an essential item. Stay Mosquito Free Farms and ranches Several tour operators and co-operatives arrange for travellers to stay on fincan (small farms) or in community-run rural lodges. Nature lodges Wilderness lodges are one of Costa Rica’s specialities and they are ideal for travellers who want to be surrounded by nature in beautiful, remote settings, but still enjoy creature comforts such as private bathrooms with hot showers and big beds enveloped in price, but most are in the mid-range to top-end brackets. They tend to be located in hard-to-reach rainforest areas, such as Tortuguero and the Golfo Dulce, so they will generally arrange pick-ups for their guests, plan daily activities and serve all meals on site. Self-catering Accommodation - Self-catering is not as widespread as other accommodation options, but it can be found. Some hotels include big family suites, cabins or apartments with equipped kitchens. Even small village communities generally have a pulperia (grocery store), although self-catering is undoubtedly easier in larger towns where there is better shopping. Return from Accommodation to Home Page
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