I got this recommendation from the 2008 edition of Frommer's and was not sure what to expect from their "Best budget option". This place is wonderful. Its tough to find, especially if you're driving yourself, and the sign in the front is easily missed but once inside, you'll feel at home immediately.

The front desk staff are great, and I heard them speak at least 4 languages (French, spanish, english and possibly german?). There is coffee set up all around the cozy converted home which is really good. The rooms are small, but more than adequate and the bathrooms were clean. the bed was a bit tough but still sleepable.

There is a beautiful garden outside where they serve an unbelievable breakfast buffet (included in my $40/night charge). There is nothing better than waking up to good strong coffee with birds and flowers all around you. It seems like its a little far from "downtown" san jose but its really only a $1-$2 cab ride which takes about 3 minutes. Its much nicer than staying in downtonw where the smog and fumes can be a little overwhelming - and coming from a NYC girl, that says a lot.

I would definitely recommend this place, and I can guarantee we will be back. Its the best $40 deal i've ever seen.

Great hotel! You won't be disappointed. Stayed here as final night in trip through Nicaragua to Costa Rica. Arrived late evening and was pleased with clean room and friendly desk staff. Cable TV, piping hot shower. But the best surprise was next morning: the buffet breakfast! Omelettes, cream puffs, cheese cake, fresh juices, fresh fruit...and on and on. Breakfast alone is worth staying here.

Funky oasis courtyards in the middle of this rambling funky-but-well-appointed hotel was a nice escape from the pleasant safe working class neighborhood. Short ten minute walk to the Mercado Artistica - THE place for last minute great deal souvenir shopping.

Aranjuez Hotel- Go for it!

PS...if getting there from Coca Coca bus terminal will be about 1200 colones ($2.40) in a metered tagged official red taxi. DO NOT catch a ride from unmarked vigilante "taxi" drivers - first offer off the bus was 5000 colones ($10)...then 4000 ($8)..then 2000 ($4) from another guy...still robbery!

Stayed there one night, after a two-week trip around Costa Rica, before leaving. The place is well situated in an OK neighbourhood.

We were in a double room with bathroom. The place was old but clean. Clerk at the reception desk was nice. The mattress was very hard. It could have become a problem if we had stayed longer.

I understand why the breakfast is a big part of their reputation. The garden where it is served is very pleasant and the choice and quality of food is surprising.

Very good price/quality ratio.

My boyfriend and I stayed here one night before leaving Costa Rica. The hotel is in 2 beautiful (but not fancy) Victorian houses in a quiet but not inconvenient area of San Jose. You have the choice of shared or private baths. There is a leafy garden courtyard where a delicious homemade breakfast is served in the morning (included in the rate).