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Hi, I'm going to embarking on my virgin voyage to CR. In San Jose, thinking about staying at either the President or the Sportsman, any insights or recommendations? Also, in Jaco for a day or two, thinking about the Paradise or Copa..appreciate your feedack.

In SJO... I've only stayed in Sportsmens a couple of times (will be staying there for SB weekend), and I recommend it wholeheartedly. It's a place where they will remember your name. If you hang out there a little, you'll meet a lot of CRT's in the bar and common areas. Very close knit "community" there. I have heard and read good things about Prez also, but I don't have any first hand experience, so I will postpone comment until I do.

In Jaco... I've only stayed in Paradise Hotel one time. I don't have anything bad to say about it, it did the job for 2 days. It is very plain. But I would have preferred something a little more luxurious, but if budget is an issue, it's a good place for $40/night. The prices vary. We paid $40 and I saw a flyer around Jaco advertising it for $35. And now with the in-season rates, not sure what they will be. Copa is more expensive, but the rooms and views look nice (in pics). The long dark path you have to walk down at night wouldn't be an issue for me, especially if I have a wingman.

Never stayed at Presidente but people love it. I have stayed at SL and it's great for me. If in San Jose only for a few days Presidente would probably be just fine. For me though, if longer than a few days I think I'd really be happier to stay outside the gulch at SL just to be away from the intensity. Some people thrive on the atmosphere outside Presidente. I don't believe you can lose with either. If you think you'll frequent San Jose in the future then perhaps stay some days at one then the other for the remainder so that you know first hand about both. Also, even if just at one for your entire time you can go over to the other to check it out and get a feel for it. Both hotels are very successful for a reason and though I've never stayed at Presidente I would gladly if I needed the room.

FWIW, the Presidente does not have as liberal a chica policy as SL. THP allows one babe per room per occupant at once. SL allows as many in your room as you can handle. Neither charge a chica fee to my knowledge.

i LIKE THE pRESIDENTE. sPORTSMAN LOOKED NICE AS WELL.

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Hanging in Laurelas with the Paisas

I think it would be an easy decision for most people. Do you want to be in the middle of the husste and bustle and short walking distance to every gulch venue, or would you prefer the more rustic, sedate "lodge" atmosphere?

First trip to SJO, I'd probably choose the Presidente. For all subsequent trips, the SL.

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SlickWings


Seems like I spend half my life drinking, gambling, and mongering. The other half... I waste.

I have stayed at the DR and Presidente. I will make my first stay at the SL this Friday. I am glad to have stayed at the first 2 for my first time "chica action" although I have been traveling to CR for more than 2 years now. It is a big "WOW" for your first time and highly recommended for your first time. You also have to consider what you can get as well. Many of these places book very quickly, and also drop reservations just as quickly and you can get in in short notice. Now that the new season is beginning, it will be up to what you can get. You won't be disappointed either way you go.

Two years and you only stayed at 2 different hotels?

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Hanging in Laurelas with the Paisas

Yep ! I go down mostly for work out of the gulch area.....only recently have I indulged myself and joined CRT. I do spend a good deal of time reading and I also have many friends in CR from my work relationships. This trip on Friday will make 3 "gulch" hotels! woohoo!!

I work and stay outside the gulch area so I keep my distance ! I too can get very caught up in the action and fun. Also reason why I won't party on the weekdays, the next day is such a biatch to work...learned that one many a years ago and every once in a while, I reming myself by having weekday event. So I keep myself glued to work, get work done. Now I have added a little extra to my spare/play time. bout damn time too!!

I only ask because after 38 visits to the Dominican republic, I have samoled over 40 different hotels.

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Hanging in Laurelas with the Paisas

It's like comparing apples and oranges...........both are great places to stay........you will not be disappointed with either choice.

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GG
"Last time I said no......I misunderstood the question!"

Try both. No reason not to?

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Hanging in Laurelas with the Paisas

Apples and Oranges are both great natural foods for fat burning !!