Costa Rica Marriott Hotel Hacienda Belen

In a city dominated by generic and largely business-minded chain hotels, the upscale Marriott stands as a totally charming Old World contrast thanks to its grand Spanish Colonial design and gorgeous garden grounds. The hacienda-style hotel sits on a 30-acre coffee plantation that feels European. The Spanish design influence is everywhere, from the terra-cotta roof to the colorful porcelain floor tiling, to the cobblestoned central courtyard around which the hotel is wrapped. Grand open hallways adorned with iron sconces connect common areas that unfold like a gallery showroom of elegant antiques in rich woods and warm, neutral tones. Cast iron chandeliers and lanterns hang overhead. The classical pools are set over two stone patios connected by stairs, and coupled with terraced sunbathing areas poised to admire the rolling tropical grounds and mountain views in the distance. It's easy to forget you're just three miles from the country's main airport and 10 miles from downtown San Jose.

The hotel is just a 10-minute drive from Juan Santamaria International Airport, in the province of Heredia, about 25 minutes north of the San Jose city center. The area is populated with other hotels and restaurants, along with a few golf courses and equestrian facilities. - Four-minute drive to Santa Ana

• 10-minute drive from San Antonio de Belen bus station
• 20-minute drive to San Jose
• 96-minute drive to La Fortuna, a jungle paradise home to the Arenal Volcano and many hot springs
• 106-minute drive to Puerto Quepos, home to Manuel Antonio National Park, a beautiful beach with and evergreen forest just off the sand

The hotel's charm and attention to detail extends into the guest rooms. They feature terra-cotta tiles and generous use of dark woods in antique-style furniture and elegant headboards. Pillow-top beds (either single king beds or two double beds) are dressed in crisp white linens. All rooms feature minibars, coffeemakers, flat-screen TVs, and plenty of outlets. A number of suites are available, which upsize layouts with separate living areas. Bathrooms have big granite vanities with huge mirrors, shower/tub combos, and a good selection of free Thann toiletries. Bathrobes, hairdryers, irons, ironing boards, umbrellas, and safes are also provided. Views vary throughout the hotel. The best are Pool View Rooms, which come with private patios and direct pool access. Mountain View Rooms take in scenic outlooks into the distance. Only a handful of rooms in the hotel have full balconies, while the rest have Juliet balconies. Concierge Level will have access to the Executive Lounge, where there's free internet, a flat-screen TV,  magazines and newspapers, and free food (breakfast buffet followed by snacks, hors d'oeurves, and desserts throughout the day)

Although the hotel isn't a sprawling property, there are certainly lots of great amenities. The hotel overlooks two beautiful pools, a whirlpool, and terraced deck with chair/daybed seating set amongst palm trees and gardens. The beautifully designed Kuo Spa is a standout feature, with eight treatment rooms and three relaxation areas (one for men, one for women, and one for couples). Treatments emphasize local ingredients like coffee and volcanic ash. Sporty types are well catered to. The sprawling fitness center is equipped with the gamut of cardio and weight-training equipment. A driving range with golf balls and clubs for rent is located on the green grassed area below the hotel. Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, Hacienda Kitchen serves as the hotel’s main restaurant, offering buffet and a la carte options, with a mix of international and local flavors. Right next door to Hacienda, Bar No. 10 offers a stylish sports bar vibe with big flat-screen TVs. The most upscale restaurant is La Isabela, specializing in Peruvian cuisine and in a beautiful space with an Old World European feel. Casa Del Cafe serves excellent espresso coffee, gelato, pastries, and a range of other snacks. The cafe adjoins the gift shop, which offers a good supply of souvenirs for purchase. La Castilla serves sushi, cocktails, and provides live music in the evenings. Room service is available 24 hours. An Executive Lounge is available to guests in Concierge Level rooms, with free coffee, beverages, snacks, and a daily breakfast buffet. Wedding planners are on hand for assistance with planning ceremonies. There's a free airport shuttle. Wi-Fi is free in common areas (there’s a fee for in-room connection). Free self-parking is provided.