but the hospitality, food, and accommodations were so wonderful that I'm taking the time now to write a review. While we visited, Juan was in charge and did a great job of making us welcome. He helped arrange our excursions and always pointed us in the right direction.

A couple of things that might not be obvious from the web, etc:

1. The opportunity to have breakfast and dinner at the hotel is really a godsend in some respects. There aren't many other places to eat in Drake Bay, especially if you'd like to keep the price reasonable. It wasn't until I was leaving Costa Rica and was able to reflect on the few meals that I had in San Juan and essentially getting to and from Drake Bay that I realized there seems to be remarkably little variation in Costa Rican cuisine. I think I would have gone mad from boredom (culinarily speaking) if I hadn't been so well fed by Juan and the staff.

2. The hotel is a bit of a walk from the waterfront so bring good Tevas or something like that to get to and from the hotel. We were there in May and it rained every afternoon for a bit which ensured that it was always a muddy walk.

The accommodations are simple in their clean lines, clean, and luxurious. Our cabin was a quiet haven to retreat to after a long day of hiking or other activity. And the open air shower was a great touch.

Without a doubt, I would stay here again. I hope the next adventure I have lands me in such nice surroundings. Thanks Juan!

PS Ignore the January 2012 indicator - I actually stayed May 2011

After traveling around in Costa Rica for 3 weeks, I can honestly say this is the nicest place and hostel we've visited. Both superior and basic rooms are real value for money.

The location is terrific, the rooms perfect, the breakfast excellent and the communal balcony where both breakfast and dinner are served, are a good place to spot birds in the closeby trees. It also facilitates the contact with other guests. All of this in a friendly and cosy atmosphere.

I really can not say what more you can expect from a hostel, everything that can facilitate your stay is taken into account by the owner. In bref, it's perfect.

For sure, one of the nicest hostels I've ever stayed when traveling around in Latin-America, Asia-Pac and Africa!!

Had a great 6 night stay here. As soon as you arrive you know this is going to be a special and unique experience. We thoroughly enjoyed our stay here and the owner Miguel certainly knows what travelers want. His approach to this hotel makes the difference to any I have been to. He makes sure that you are informed of trips available in and around the area, he is very accommodating whenever you have questions, and very knowledgeable of local information and local wildlife.

What also sets this apart is the hotel communal area, set up high overlooking the surrounding forest you are free to use a monocular to watch birds or simply spend the day in hammock. For dinner and breakfast we also found this to be a great concept of spending your time on a long table and chat to fellow travelers.

This number 1 in Drake Bay for many reasons!

The owner, Juan, and his staff could not be more accomodating! The accomodations overlook the jungle and you are treated to the night sounds and excellent meals every day. Juan knows the good tour operators and spends the time with you, understanding your timeline and needs to make your visit the best it can be, BRAVO! We will be back in 2013.