Apartotel Suites Cristina

This virtually car-free end of the street has some unattractive cement structures in its vicinity, but Suites Cristina is a welcome sight with a simple white exterior and stone wall marked with flags -- including one from the European Union -- and a few parking spots on either side. A set of steps and wheelchair-friendly ramp lead to the second level, revealing a modern lobby with cheerful tangerine and green tones, built-in banquettes, and newer furnishings. In the corner is a high-top bar area (it's not really a bar) where guests can purchase snacks and non-alcoholic beverages. One might overhear Italian being spoken at the front desk, in addition to Spanish and English, thanks to the three Italian siblings who own the place. There are local newspapers and sporting events on TV, providing a nice hangout for enjoying a small cup of coffee, which is often presented free of charge. Beyond the lobby, the layout is interesting with a series of maze-like breezeways and stairwells peppered with pottery, abstract art, and large murals depicting foliage (there's also an elevator), and even some astro-turf. A courtyard acts as the nerve center; this is the home of the pool area, which is surrounded by pretty tropical pants, sun loungers, and white tables for breakfast service. Many guests are here for longer stays, perhaps for work purposes or medical/dental procedures (popular with North Americans), so during the day, it can feel peaceful. One will likely have zero trouble planting themselves around the pool or pulling out the laptop. At night, however, it's a little more lively with kids splashing around, adults cooking in the units, or couples walking down the hall to the Italian restaurant where there is a private entrance for hotel guests only. 

This somewhat hidden property is located on the western side of San José -- Costa Rica’s capital and largest city -- in a residential neighborhood within walking distance of a large public park called Parquet Metropolitano. The area of La Sabana is experiencing steady growth, and is home to a few restaurants (Argentinian and Lebanese, to name a few) and a grocery store for stocking the fridges. Though it will require transportation, guests can access downtown in about 10 minutes for shops, markets, and cultural landmarks such as the National Theatre, National Cathedral, Gold Museum and Plaza de La Cultura, as well as nightlife and live music. Some guests rent cars -- there are a few spots next to the entrance, otherwise street parking is pretty reliable -- while others get around the city by using the bus system or taking taxis. The front desk can help with bus routes and arranging taxi fares.Perhaps the best part of the location is that it only takes between 15 and 20 minutes to arrive from Juan Santamaria International Airport (SJO). Free airport transportation, both to and from, is provided to guests, and requires 48 hours advance notice. 

Suites Cristina offers 50 apartments in one-, two-, and three-bedroom layouts, attracting those in town for longer stays than just a night or two (the latter being more typical at other San José hotels). They all have a color scheme similar to the lobby's: orange and green accents, dark brown furnishings, and white ceramic floors. Some units have been renovated more extensively than others, and some have older tube televisions and dated dining room furnishings. Executive Suites are the most contemporary and spacious of the one-bedrooms, making them great for business travelers. Families may want to consider the two-bedroom Deluxe, Duplex, or Superior Suites. For more space, the Family Suite has three bedrooms and two full baths.Bedrooms in all units are completely separate from the kitchens, and living and dining rooms. They have queen-sized beds (two- and three-bedrooms might have twin beds), A/C units, and safes that can fit laptops. Bathrooms have countertops, walk-in showers (some can accommodate a wheelchair), and basic toiletries. Dining tables can fit at least four people. Kitchens are equipped with microwaves, refrigerators, electric ranges (no ovens), dishes, glasses, and utensils. There are no coffeemakers or blenders for making smoothies -- those in town for dental work will have to find alternatives.

The outdoor pool is solar-heated -- great for keeping kids entertained -- and surrounded by sun loungers and green plants. It rarely sees a crowd as most guests seem to be here for a purpose other than leisure activities. Buffet breakfast is served daily, free of charge, for guests starting early in an open-air and partially covered area next to the pool. The spread includes traditional gallo pinto, eggs (cooked to order), fried plantains, and a variety of fruits and yogurts. There are also European additions like cheeses and cold cuts, as well as pastries and espresso. For dinner, there is a restaurant attached to the side of the building called L'Olivo -- a neighborhood favorite -- for authentic Italian food and wine (ask the owner if you'd like to check out the cellar). It is located down the hall from the hotel with a private door. The restaurant will deliver to rooms.Free Wi-Fi is available throughout, and the front desk has laptops available to borrow. There is also a stand-up computer terminal in the lobby, which also has an area selling snacks, beverages, sundries, and souvenirs. A little bar is set up here that guests are free to use, but service is only provided through the front desk. A self-service laundry area has four coin-operated washers and dryers. Babysitting service is available with advance notice.