I have never stayed in a hostel in all the years of my traveling. While I was looking for accommodations for my trip to Tamarindo this year, I came across Tamarindo backpackers and based on the reviews I decided to book a private room with them. It was by far the best decision I have made in my many years of traveling. The hostel feels like a home. The common areas include a massive living room with couches and a plasma television, an outside patio with hammocks, tables and chairs, a fully equipped kitchen and dining area, bathroom, and pool area complete with lounge chairs and an outdoor shower. Everything was immaculate for my entire 8 day stay, which surprised me because the maid had time to give hour long massages to guests (the BEST massage I have ever had BTW) throughout the day.

My room was off of the main garden area, had a queen size bed, air conditioner and satellite television. It was nicer than some of the hotel rooms that I have stayed in and paid more than 5 times as much. The staff was friendly and welcoming, without being invasive. I was really worried about the level of privacy in a hostel, but the layout made it easy to decide whether I felt like checking my emails and reading a book on my own, or hanging out with the other guests and staff members. One of the staff members, Daniel, completed his culinary licensure and doubles as a chef. He taught me how to make a few South American foods and gnocchi!

However, the owner Anne was the highlight of my trip. I was traveling alone, and had never been to Costa Rica before, and she absolutely took me under her wing. She showed me around, got me great deals on day trips that I wanted to take, introduced me to her friends and really made me feel welcomed. I will most definitely be back to Tamarindo Backpacker's within the next year, I miss it already.