Courtyard by Marriott San Jose Escazu

Set on a road that runs just below a busy highway -- this Courtyard Marriott's setting is fairly lackluster for leafy, upmarket Escazu, but guests don’t seem to mind given the affordable rates, solid amenities, and great proximity to restaurants and shopping malls. The hotel occupies a big corner block, with an enclave or restaurants (including a Hooters), right opposite. A black wrought iron fence with a secure entrance surrounds the crimson four-story building. Inside, wood floors and exposed overhead beams bring instant character and warmth to the contemporary open plan lobby. Furnishing include beige lounges, and splashes of burnt orange armchairs, printed rugs, and a feature wall flower mural. Bare brick hung with a trio of ancient stone masks, plus big bunches of bromeliads give the front desk some welcome rustic local flavor. Out back, the courtyard-style garden holds the sapphire-blue pool that’s bordered by lush hedging and a pretty palm tree garden -- all quite evocative of a Tuscan villa. Business travelers in particular enjoy it here, so there can be a business-centric vibe. 

The hotel is located just off the busy artery of Autopista Prospero Fernadez, in a pretty uninspiring pocket of Escazu -- which happens to be San Jose’s poshest province. The hotel is convenient to some restaurants and shopping but not much else. There’s a small strip of casual eateries (including a Hooters), right over the road, and there’s an Outback Steakhouse and Starbucks within easy walking distance. Costa Rica’s largest shopping center, Multiplaza Mall, is more or less over the road, but that road happens to be a major thoroughfare so it’s difficult to get there on foot, but a quick two-minute, dirt cheap cab ride will do it. It’s a 12-minute drive to Valle Del Sol golf club. Downtown San Jose is about 20 minutes away. The hotel is a 35-minute drive from Juan Santamaria International Airport. 

Room decor is fairly generic, yet tasteful and full of warmth in deep red tones with soft yellow accents and wood furniture. White bedspreads on single king or double queen beds add fresh contrast and striped carpet adds linear texture. Espresso machines are a nice touch and mini-fridges are also included, but the hefty charge for bottled water is annoying. Closets contain safes, irons, and ironing boards. Room service is also available.  Bathrooms feature marble vanities, lovely large mirrors, shower/ tub combos, wall-mounted hairdryers, and Paul Mitchell toiletries. Superior Rooms upgrade to a whirlpool tub and the Courtyard Suite has a king bedroom and separate living and dining area, plus a whirlpool. Rooms open onto private balconies that are just wide enough to accommodate a couple of chairs -- and many take in scenic green views into the distance. Despite the close proximity to a major highway, rooms are largely peaceful. 

Features are mostly focused on business travelers, with a few extra vacation-like perks. Centro Restaurant is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner with buffet and a la carte options, in addition to room service -- though the breakfast buffet isn't free. The quality is good and the prices are affordable. The on-site pool is a highlight, with its garden surroundings and patio area with outdoor dining tables and deck chairs. The fitness center is a good size and has a good range of TechnoGym cardio and weight-training equipment. A small sundries store next to the front desk sells simple snacks, beverages, and some souvenirs. Three event rooms cater to business meetings; and there are a couple of computers for guest use. Wi-Fi is free.