I stay here every time I travel through Costa Rica on my way to Cuba. Alonso, is always waiting for me at the airport when I arrive, which is a huge relief knowing I'll not have to deal with the throngs of cabbies waiting to pounce just outside the airport. It is then a short five minute drive to his... More

My husband and I are in our mid-20s. We came to Costa Rica on our honeymoon in 2009 and stayed with Alonso at Alajuela Tropical Hostel for a few nights and are staying with him again now in December of 2011. Both times, staying with Alonso has been one of the best decisions we made. We very much appreciate everything... More

Don't get us wrong, the host is a nice person. However, we were jipped. Paid $40 USD. No breakfast included. Transportation paid out of our pocket. Owner didn't pick us up from the airport as stated by other reviewers. Hostel was not what it was supposed to be- very poor and scary. We were jipped because Alonso the host said... More

We went in March 2010 Alonso gives the personal touch doing everything and more for you- even sleeping in a tent in his garden to give up his bed! He told us everything and more about Costa rica so we knew what not to do and what to do despite tourist offices telling you otherwise- we ended up going to... More

The host was very rude when we arrived claiming that he'd been waiting for over an hour and a half when he confirmed our arrival time in advance. When he was asked to knock on our door to wake us for our shuttle, he refused, even though he said that he would be at his desk. I don't know when... More

My partner and I stayed here a couple of times. The owner Alonso is incredibly friendly, courteous and helpful, and a breakfast of toast and eggs plus juice and coffee was included. It's a small hostel with only 3 rooms, so it's not necessarilly the place to find travle buddies, but if you're just after a comfortable bed near the... More

Alfonso met us at the airport and gave us a brief tour on the way to his hostel. He is a friendly and excellent host. The bed was comfortable and the shared bathroom clean. He served us a good breakfast the following morning -- all of this for less than USD35! More

Firstly - San Jose is really not worth it. Alajuela is far closer to the airport, and San Jose is just used as a base for tours that are far closer to Alajuela anyway. San Jose doesn´t have that Latino city vibe. It´s just a bit crowded. I was expecting some amazing bars... couldn´t find them. Realised my mistake &... More

The Alajuela Tropical Hostel is a great place to stay near the San Jose Airport in Costa Rica. Alonso is warm and welcoming, and the place is clean and comfortable. A great first (or last) stop in Costa Rica. More