www.CostaRicaTicas.com

When I'm not wanting to spend much money on a room I stay in a place called Hotel Johnson on Calle 8 . It's nothing special but it is clean, has hot water most of the time and has cable tv (no remote). I don't know if this is a seasonal price but I have been paying $10 per night, $20 when I have a chica. Like I say, nothing special, but I know there are a few bargain hunters out there.

3rdworld

Check out Vista Linda apartments. Basically a small one bedroom apt. with full kitchen and living area. Chica friendly. Common area where guest gather for coffee, stories, and plan excursions. Off Calle Blanco taxi ride to Gulch for 550 or bus on the corner for 90 colones.

$20 per night

Third World,Do you know where this place is on Calle 8.A budget option for short weekend trips would be good.Thanks.rbc100

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I just tell taxis Hoyel Johnson calle 8 and they always seem to know where it is. It is very close to the central mercado. That is the only landmark I know. The phone number is 223-7633. And the card says its between 2nd avenue and central avenue.

I also stayed at the hotel Johnson. It wasn't bad at all except the walls are made of very thin tissue paper. If you aren't a light sleeper it should be fine. As far as a chica fee goes, I didn't consider bringing one back since it was early in my career. I think perhaps a bribe to the desk clerk might reduce that 10 dollar fee. I'd try that if I ever need to stay there again, but I have an apt now and it's under 200 a month. No chica fee either, btw

Dan / Bilko

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"The only normal people are those you don't know very well." Joe Ancis

Do you have an apartment in downtown San Jose for under $200? SEAHAWK

I share an apartment in Los Yoses, which is close enough to walk downtown if it's not too late. The total rent is a bit under 400 a month. There are lots of pretty good bargains to be had but you won't find them in the Tico Times or even La Nation. Best advice is to find a fluent spanish speaker, and walk around a neighborhood you like, write down numbers and call. Most of the locals seem unwilling to pay for an ad in the paper.

BTW, my apt is not bad but it is also not up to US standards. Suicide shower, tiny kitchen, etc. But it serves it's purpose.

Dan / Bilko

_________________
"The only normal people are those you don't know very well." Joe Ancis

another place to find apartments is at the grocery store. There is usually a bulletin board around the entrance offering among other things apartamentos para alquilar.

The link to Hotel Nuevo Johnson for those interested: http://www.hotelnuevojohnson.com/index.html
I'm thinking about staying there myself.
V

I found the place and took a look at the outside and neighborhood this weekend but didn't look at the rooms.It is not in a great neighborhood but may be a good budget option for a short trip.After meeting Bilco personally this wekend I have no doubts it woud be an ok place to stay on a budget which fits my bill.rbc100

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I just made reservations to try the place out on a last minute trip Jan 7 to 11 if anyone else is there.rbc100

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RBC100,

That area is 2 blocks west of Park Central Pretty tough area at night and lots of pickpockets during the day.

I believe that's in the same block as the "Labors" park. A park where all of the non-national labor types congregate on sat. & sun. I'm not saying that's a bad thing. Just a very transient group of folks.

I'd love to hear your report on the Hotel and area.

Good Luck,

HL

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Don't tell my Mom I'm a Pilot. She thinks I'm a Piano Player in a Brothel.

Thanks for the word of caution Hot Luck.I located the place last trip and discovered it was in a marginal neighborhood at best.I will be cautious and wont' be walking in the area at night.I always carry only what I need in my front pockets in San Jose.I'll report back on the place.It could be a good low cost option for a short trip.rbc100

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The area isn't THAT bad. Daytimes it's just crowded, so that makes it easier for pickpockets. At night you'd want to take taxis after 9 or so, but that's true even at lots of the 'better' hotels (you know who you are...)

_________________
"The only normal people are those you don't know very well." Joe Ancis

I just stayed at the Johnson this weekend and found it to be adequate but very basic.The first couple of nights I was on the third floor where the rooms are a bit rough but moved down to the Second floor the last two nights and the room was better.It is definitely a good value at $10 for a single and security is very good.The location was better than first impression as it is very close to both Ave.Central and Ave.2.It was safe to walk out from there up until 9 or 10 at night but I would be leary after that.I always took a taxi back late at night and they took me right to the entrance.I did locate a very nice budget option only a block away for $24 per night with $5 girl fee.Very nice rooms with private bath TV,phone in room.Nicest thing I have seen in that price range which is monger freindly.I will post details soon.Rbc100

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In Search of Fine Kittens,
Please... Bring back the Muff