For what it is, it was very nice. Don't expect a 4 star hotel, but it's well worth the price. The Hotel America is consistent with other hotels of the same vintage we've stayed in in other Latin American nations. It's not what you find in the US, but shouldn't be expected to be so. We were well pleased with what we got for our money, and if we needed to be in downtown Heredia again, we would not hesitate to use this classy little hotel.

My wife and I were part of an international conference hosted at the Hotel America. We were there for two nights and were very well satisfied in all but one area--and that allowed for some humor. We had trouble getting enough hot water for me to shave and my wife to shower at the same time. Then I ran out of hot water and had to rinse cold...a minor problem in the tropics, actually. In fairness, the hotel was fully booked and it's likely that everyone in the place was showering at the same time. Also the rooms were dimly lit, which is consistent with other hotels we've had experience with in the region. The hallways were brightly lit and there were plenty of couches, etc. to sit on to use computers, read or whatever.

The staff was pleasant, and there were enough folks competent in English to help us out when our Spanish failed us. The desk clerk happily arranged a rental car on the day of our departure and that worked out quite nicely for us.

The conference included meals and snacks which were prepared and served on site. The kitchen appeared clean, and all the food was both tasty and well served. There was always enough to have seconds if wanted. I only wish they would put out real milk or cream for the coffee--such great coffee, but powdered creamer, why?

There are a few computers available for guests' use, but they appeared to be somewhat old; but since we had our laptop, and the wireless connection was good, that was not an issue for us.

We slept well and enjoyed our stay. The nature of the place with its interior doorways and common hallways allowed--or maybe forced--the interaction between the guests who were all part of the same conference, which for us was a benefit.

This is a decent place if you have business in central Heredia. It's in the middle of downtown so it is conveniently located; close to the park and local business. A casino is almost next door if you a gambler. Rooms were clean, beds comfortable, staff very friendly, good hot water, TV and coffee was ready at 6:00am every morning (now that's a plus). There is a small bar adjacent to the hotel, no wifi but computers in the lobby. Stay away from the chinese restrant down the street to the right; it's probably the worst food I've had in Costa Rica. The second night there (our last night) there was a reunion down stairs and they had the LOUD disco going till around midnight (it was a Saturday night). We dealt with it and did get some sleep but as we are "early to bed, early to rise" types it wasn't the best thing for the hotel. The complementary breakfast is ok with fresh fruit, cereal, juices, toast, etc. But for $50 a night it was a deal. We'd stay there again. Check out the 1950's era movie projector in the lobby- very cool.

I have stayed at this hotel several times and I find that it is o.k. for the money. It is comfortable and clean and the employees are friendly. I would recommend a short stay at this hotel.

...Nice rooms, but you can hear the people next door gargling int he bathroom, other's TV all night long, babies screaming, and and every door slamming closed, at all hours. We took sleeping pills and used ear plugs, but we were still kept up late, after midnight, and awakened by loud, early rises at 5 AM. The morning staff was apologetic...

BTW...the restaurant is not open past lunch, and no bar, as some guide books state. Nor is there an included breakfast. In five weeks of travelling in Cost Rica, you will have some negative experiences, this was definitely our worst. Most hostels are much quir\eter, not to mention low cost.


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