Austin512 wrote:
Hi again,
As mentioned before, I will be coming to SJ towards the end of APR (FRI-TUE) and am hoping to stay at a place which is close to some inexpensive MPs and bars and is also safe to walk around during the day (and at night would be a bonus, too). I saw on Wikitravel that the Barrio de California (?) is an eclectic place, but not sure if I should stay in that area? The biggest thing is if I can stay in an area which is fun, but not sketchy. I don't plan on bringing any chicas back to my hotel, so I think that may give me some more options on hotels to stay at?
In a nutshell, can you all please advise on a good place in SJ to stay which is near to "budget" MPs and one that has nightlife near it? It's okay if the nightlife is more mellow and not the "girlie bar" vibe.
Thanks!

#1. Stay off from Wikitravel.
#2. You don't want to get lost outside of Barrio Amon. I did on my Rookie trip and it wasn't fun. I got EXTREMELY Lucky nothing bad happened!
#3. It's probably better to stay home and save more money before going to San Jose the first time. On your second trip, you'll have first hand info on spending less. I'll be saving a minimum of 500 USD on my second visit later this year. Probably more with the CRT discount that I didn't have on visit one.
#4. Pay to be a CRT VIP and get THE CARD for discounts that pay for the fee on day one. Then study the VIP Sections. Wish I had prior to Rookie trip.
#5. Sounds like you'll be shocked, disapointed and/or get into trouble w/o an experienced wingman. I toured the "cheap" MPs/Pensions with a pro wing so I knew who to see and not see and not be the only Gringo in said "cheaps".
My 2 Colones. Play it safe.
NJ