With some hesitancy I thought twice about the "economy" features offered by Clarita and her hotel organization. However, the immediate responsiveness of the emails coupled with the excellent website proved to be a harbinger for future grins and giggles, great food and mountains of fun. Speaking of mountains what beautiful sights to be seen from sitting at the ample bar, sipping refreshments and gazing out across the sands into the Pacific. My companion said it looked just like the webpage - only more impressive if possible in person.
To the basics of costs, safety, friendliness and sanitation which often haunt any traveler's concerns prior to their journey I offer this review.

First, dollar for dollar, this is the best on the beach hotel in Jaco Beach where surfers hold sway due to the fine wave and tide conditions. Modern bright rooms, clean and sanitary, functional plumbing and honest wait staff make the modest, air-conditioned units practical and comfortable. Each with its own safe, color tv and beautiful bed spread it gave off a warm and friendly welcome from the moment we opened the secured door. After the fun drive through the spectacular Costa Rican mountains from San Jose it offered solice and a quick refreshing siesta.

Second, with vigor renewed by a modern bathroom equipped with tiled shower the beach bar beckoned us for happy hour. Low prices and cold beers make this place the deal of the century for tourist who are perpetually being fleeced by their "hosts". Likewise, cheap appetizers complemented a great afternoon while making new friends among the permanently self-imposed expatriots from the US as well as other countries. Great discussions, debates, joking and mirth enlivened the night so much that when dinner time arrived there was no need to travel elsewhere. The fine food at reasonable price added to the enjoyment. After the day's travel it was time to catch some z's, relax and recreate.

Last, well, sort of last in terms of time. The next morning breakfast with the regulars started off the day with great strong coffee - a local habit - and the gringo special, all for under $5. It was then and there I knew another boring day in paradise must be endured, exploring local mountains and valleys, grappling with the rays of hope and sunshine that make Clarita's Hotel and Beach Resort a very special place to visit again and again. At those prices who wouldn't? Be sure to give Clarita a big smooch for me.