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Best Stays in Costa Rica for Solo Travellers!

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As a local, these are the places I tend to recommend to first-time solo travelers visiting my country.
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San José

 San José, the capital of Costa Rica. It's often overlooked by tourists rushing to beaches and rainforests, and honestly, it's got nice and not so nice areas. It's busy, a bit chaotic, and can feel overwhelming at first. However, it has authentic Cost...

There are also some hidden Gems within San José, cities like Escazú and Santana to the west of San Jose, perched in the mountains if you are looking for a more quiet and relaxed experience.  The cooler mountain climate is refreshing, and the views over the Central Valley are beautiful. Both places have some amazing restaurants and hiking spots.

So…where to stay?

 
micaela Naguil profile picture
Affordable, cozy spot to meet fellow travellers.  The stays range from 14 USD on a shared 5 bunk-room or up to 23 dollars on a women's only shared space with 4 bunks. 

They also have additional rooms for people to stay in alone for 60 dollars aprox. Breakfast is included here. 

You can get certain discounts if you access hostalworld discounts or if you decide to paint something cool on the wall! Their two local stray cats will enjoy your company here :) Hostal includes lockers and access to pizza orders for the evenings.

Reception may also help you order a shuttle to the airport at different times, if you are leaving the following day.
Stray Cat Hostel, San José
 
micaela Naguil profile picture
Perhaps one of the most affordable spots for solo travelers looking for a hostal in San Jose with pool access, 

 A bed in a shared space may be between 7-8USD the night. Breakfast is not included but offered here.

This place is often packed during high season, so I'd advise making a reservation ahead of time.
Costa Rica Backpackers

Escazu

A hillside neighborhood offering a refreshing break from the typical backpacker experience. Think of the weekend farmers market, cute brunch spots, and locals sipping wine at sunset terraces in the afternoon. It's where you'll hear more English than ...

 
micaela Naguil profile picture
Cute private spot in front of a chives farm. Amazing view from the container room (spacious, with bathroom and kitchenette)

It's cozy during the rainy season and if you are in town for a couple days before going to the airport, this place is a great to decompress. 

It's got quiet, beautiful views, and during the day you are close to places for walking/hiking around Escazu, and can visit the local farmers market Saturday morning. There are also some excellent restaurants nearby. You might need a 4x4 preferably, ...
Casa Tiquicia

Monteverde

Monteverde is this small mountain town in Costa Rica where it feels like you are walking through clouds. Everything's damp and green—moss hanging off the trees, birds calling from somewhere you can't see, and we have these suspension bridges in the m...

The town itself is pretty small, just a main road with some cafés and shops.  It gets cold at night, which surprises people. Quakers settled here back in the '50s and started making cheese, which is random but the ice cream is actually really good. Just don't forget your rainjacket!

 
micaela Naguil profile picture
This place looks and feels like a Wes Anderson movie. Natural luxury…as they call it. If you are looking to immerse yourself in nature and have an interesting authentic experience, this hotel may be for you.
Hotel Belmar

Limon

 
micaela Naguil profile picture
You can reach out to me if you need help navigating how to get yourself to Limon.
Cute Tiny Home in Limón, close to Cahuita.
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