www.CostaRicaTicas.com

I booked La Amistad based upon location, sponsorship of CRT, and Castillo was booked. I was aware that there was some construction going on but to what degree I had no idea.

I booked online for the std @$37/night, prompt reply confirming my request within 6hrs.
Upon checkin, I'm noticing a whole lot of noise and mucho construction going on. The look in my eyes becomes a concern to Carlos(MOD) and another gent in the office. When asked if there is something wrong , I tell them I was aware of some renovations but not to this degree. Where is Nuevo Johnson's number?

The second gent turns out to be Matt,(Owner) he introduces himself and I can see his wheels are turning. I inform him I have other amigos coming in for the weekend and this could be a disappointment.
He quickly reviews his book and tells me to follow him on a quick tour. Matt leads me thru the property, showing various rooms and explaining what is in store for the property.

At some point Matt decides that I should be placed in room #310, large living area ,a sofa large enough to fit the entire Idem and ZB staffs on, fireplace and lofted bedroom . Large walkin shower, room for 4 girls minimum nicely lit and hot water on demand.

Ok, I feel better, but I have an Amigo who is blind and need to know what room he will be located. Matt discusses this with Carlos and it decided that EL Ciego should be moved from the 3rd floor down to ground level,(no elevators). El Ciego was booked in a std as well but his move would require that he go into a deluxe suite, no problem upgrade on us Matt tells me.

Throughout the course of my 6 nights at this property the staff went above the call of duty. At various times assisting El Ciego down the street to SL for his gig with Peter, or to the Pharmacy up the street. Preparing eggs to order for some CRT'ers that couldn't get out of bed by 10 am. Doing laundry mid day and back in my room within 3 hrs. I could on here, this property is aiming to please and the staff is as friendly and sincere as any I have met in SJ.

When completed(July-Aug) this property needs to be seriously considered. Chica friendly, brkfst buffet with assorted cereal, scrambled eggs but will do over easy upon request,ham and chorizo, fresh fruit, pancakes. All well maintained and frequently replenished.

Std rooms are comparable in size to Castillo, but bathrooms were Presidente quality. My suite was clean and with plans for flat screens will make for a great entertaining room,complete with fireplace.Rooms are hard wired and they have 3 computers for guests on the second floor.

This property has catered to the Eco Tour sector and there were several groups that checked in, they appeared to use this property as launch site, so they were never an issue. Interesting to see where the new ownership takes this property with this issue.

Plans are for a small bar to be built, expand the foyer area and continue renovating all the rooms. A small store for incidentals is planned as well. Beds are being upgraded in all the rooms and dbl pain glass in several rooms along the street to reduce morning traffic noise.

Overall I had a very positive experience and once the construction is completed this property should be an attractive option for CRT members. Chica friendly, secure and great location and a very good value for the price range.

So Wolfgang (the german) sold the place?

TT

YES

Greetings:

I called them this afternoon, talked to Rudy. I did not identify myself as being a member of CRT, just from the States. I told him of my dates, which are over a period of 16 nights in July. He looked and said that they were already sold out for 3 or 4 of the nights, and identified them.

I asked Rudy if they had CRT discounts....his demeanor noticibly changed...."Oh, you are CRT?" "Yes, I have rooms available for you." He went on to explain that they always kept aside extra rooms JUST for CRT VIP members. This fellow totally went out of his way to accomodate me, explaining the total price for the 16 nights and amenities available at the hotel, which included no guest fees, and offered the 25% straight discount for staying longer than a week. That makes it $37.50 standard rate per night + taxes of 16%.

He said they have the best breakfast in all of Costa Rica. He talked about Taxi fees going up to $18 from the airport because of the exhorbitant cost of fuel. I think he said it was 600 colones per liter. It might have been 500. Said it will be going to that price tomorrow 6/6/07.

Anyhow, I want to thank Admin1 for his diligence. The service he has renedered in the many and various and diverse perks that go with VIP membership more than offset the price of VIP status.

I haven't been to Costa Rica for 7 years, after going 5 times in 2000 and 2001. I am SO looking forward to this trip.

Thanks guys, to all the members who post helpful and informative information and keep this place so fresh.

Best regards,
-Wmax2

_________________
So, the dove chooses to fly at night, despite the predators that may want to consume her.
But, perhaps it is the dove that hungers and the night shall shiver in the end.

I did tell them to keep a few extra rooms for the CRT members aside. Make sure that you book a deluxe room. Our standard rooms may not be up to CRT standards at this time. We will always upgrade (for free) if they are available. The problem is if you dont book a deluxe we may not be able to upgrade you if they are not available. The difference is about $7 a day. When the renovations are complete it wont make a differance. Just want to be honest and not have disappointed clients. Let me know if you book and i will double check your booking for you.

Matt

July 3-18, Deluxe suite.


Got an extra bed in room, I hear. Any ideas?

-Wmax2

_________________
So, the dove chooses to fly at night, despite the predators that may want to consume her.
But, perhaps it is the dove that hungers and the night shall shiver in the end.

i am sure you will find someone to fill. we will have to find you a "now serving sign".

Matt