www.CostaRicaTicas.com

First off - love the Board, been reading for awhile and excited about my first CR trip in spring 2012! So...Thanks in advance.... I'm going to spend my first 5 nights in SJ at the SL and then head to Jaco on a Thursday night and Friday night. I love the water and the beach vibe -- I know of all kinds of conflicting opinions on Jaco but I want to see it and try it - and visit the BB!! I've read thru every post and still have a lodging question?? I am trying to stay at decent place, under $100 in May---with maybe a little action around the pool, etc would be a nice perk--- My finalist are:

Hotel Cocal
Copacabana
not as excited about the location and recent reviews of Claritas??

I have also been in contact with Hotel Los 4 Grandes and love the location and price but wondered about where I would hang during the day...

I like to get out and be in/near the water with a few drinks and scenery!! Do a few places allow guests to come in and buy drinks at their bars and swim?? I could sit at El Bohio I assume too... I just can't stay in the room and wait for evening activities...
I'm also not sure about CRT discounts at any of the places listed above -- the dates seem to be from a while back and I'm not sure if they are still valid?? I guess we could throw Hotel Poseidon in the mix as well.. I like the look of that as well...

I am early on this planning but I like to know where i am going and then read and do research until then.... I am a teacher/coach and school is strting soon and I need something like this to look forward too!!! I just did Sosua and Negril recently and love the Hobby!! Thanks again!

I've stayed at the Cocal. Chica friendly too. The casino may have some action at night.

thanks guys...I was leaning towards Cocal too... Intrigued by Hotel Los Grandes but not too excited about staying on the 2nd story of a shopping center when I am a pool and beach guy? We will see.... looks $95 for poolside is the way to go...any CRT discount??

Here's a recent overview of opinions of Jaco venues:
viewtopic.php?f=4&t=38490&p=434632&hilit=jaco#p434632

Kinda cheesy to quote myself but there you go.

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"A man accustomed to hear only the echo of his own sentiments, soon bars all the common avenues of delight, and has no part in the general gratification of mankind"--Dr. Johnson
"Amen, brother"-ED