An unexpected transit through SJO; stayed at the Fairfield Inn, prepaid rate, LTP.

I think it is the best Fairfield that I've ever stayed. Not only is it new (or its been very well maintained) and clean, the experience is a step above my expectations, and better than the adjoining CY.

Got the room I booked, but my room was in the 5th floor, the "elite" floor. The floor has an alcove with a espresso machine and a frig. She mentioned something about beer and water being there also. I think she meant that there is beer, wine, and snacks available there around 5 PM, so you may want to ask specifically. I refilled my personal bottle at the water dispenser in the gym.

A choice of welcome gifts (I took the 500 points), a welcome beer or wine, and a 15% off F&B coupon. The room, while it was a printed form letter, had a 'thank you' from the management addressed to me as well as a plate of some sort of fluffy crackers and fresh honey. Room was spotless.

There is an airport shuttle that runs I think 20 hours a day, every 1/2 hour - leaves hotel at 15/45; picks up at airport 00/30. Very easy to find it at the airport - follow the hotel shuttle signage. 10 minute ride.

The breakfast buffet, free, was as extensive as the CY next door. Plenty of hot foods including chicken pupusas, a waffle maker, etc. Very pleasant staff. I did take advantage of the 15% coupon and had flavorful fish tacos and a cold beer for lunch on the 1st full day of my stay.

I did go to the center of the nearby town of Alajuela for dinner. I'm a walker - a 20 minute walk - which I attempted for a walkabout in the morning. Unfortunately, the sidewalks are sketchy (not people - the physical condition, not to mention dog 'stuff', etc.) and the other walking route was along the 4-lane divided highway. So Uber it was to dinner. I highly recommend a visit to old town Alajuela for a meal vs. the tourist trap restaurants across the street from the hotel. (I ate at La Calle which is part of a local outdoor food court - it was quite good.)

1/2 the TV channels were English - full range.

Liked the safe with the LED interior light.

Here is an e-mail address for the front desk manager: [email protected].


There is also a Walmart next door in case you need provisions.