Hotel Santo Tomas

The hotel's white and slate blue exterior with arched windows is not easy to find, especially when arriving via rental car on a busy, narrow one-way street with downtown traffic. In fact, it doesn’t look like a hotel from the outside at all -- there is signage but it can be difficult to spot. Guests are buzzed through an iron gate before heading to reception for check-in, which has classic furnishings, a shelf of books, tourist materials, and hot and cold drinks for sale. Guests receive a key to the room and for the front gate; otherwise they can ring a buzzer for entry (there's 24-hour staff). William Thomas -- the charismatic and boisterous American owner -- is often working from his desk in the lobby and often greets guests by first name and with a hearty handshake. He moved to Costa Rica in the '80s, met his Tican wife, and bought the property -- a former mansion from 1908. He handpicks many of the materials, including watercolor paintings and mahogany furniture, and even consults his children for decisions.

Past the lobby are lots of neat hallways boasting charm that Thomas is proud to show off. There’s even a historic wing of the hotel with clapboard walls and vintage maps. There are many sitting areas across the property that guests can enjoy with a book or laptop. Breakfast is served indoors or next to the pool, and Thomas is usually present to chat with guests over coffee and offer local tips before they head on their way. Many guests are in transit to or from the airport, but the hotel also appeals to longer-term medical and dental tourists.

Hotel Santo Tomas is in the heart of downtown San Jose -- Costa Rica’s capital and largest city -- on a busy one-way, one-lane street. While it's not everyone's cup of tea, this bustling and pivotal spot is walking distance to shops, dining options, markets, and cultural landmarks such as the National Theatre, National Cathedral, Gold Museum, and Plaza de La Cultura. Those who want to experience a dose of local life before heading out of town can stroll along Central Avenue Boulevard midday, when workers are on their lunch break, and enter Mercado Central for interesting sights, sounds, and smells.

Many guests who stay here are in transit to or from the airport. The hotel is a 25-minute drive from Juan Santamaria International Airport (SJO) and is about two hours from the Pacific coast. There are plenty of taxis waiting near the hotel to help guests get around the city, and guests can also walk or use the urban bus system. For those who have a car, there is a parking lot next to the property that requires key access (the owner and his staff usually offer to help park, as it can be challenging for first-timers). This is free; nearby parking lots charge an arm and a leg. 

The 30 rooms are found in either the original wing (over 100 years old) or the newer wing (rooms here are more spacious). Authentic touches include clapboard walls, and tile ceilings and floors; there are also mahogany furnishings, potted plants, and personal decor touches from the owner and his family. The traditional look might not appeal to everyone, especially the patterned bedspreads, though the entire hotel feels spic-and-span (Thomas runs a tight ship with his staff). Walk-in showers are very basic, with shower curtains and a bar of soap, so it's a good idea to bring toiletries.  

Some Deluxe Rooms have a private balcony overlooking the pool, with views of the city beyond, while rooms along the interior hallway lack natural light. The front desk staff are usually accommodating and will make room changes when they are available. It should also be noted that anyone who has trouble with stairs (such as those on a medical tourism trip to receive surgery) will want to request a first-floor room.

Hotel Santo Tomas has a courtyard garden and terrace tucked away from the busy street on which it resides. This is where guests can find a plunge pool decorated with dolphins -- an idea that came from the owner’s daughter. A few small steps lead up to the hot tub and waterslide. Beware of cold temperatures in the waterslide and pool. There are a few sun loungers, as well as tables for enjoying a beer. The pool is open 24/7 and is lit up at night, so late arrivals can still enjoy an evening dip. 

Next to this area is a basic open-air fitness center, though it has dated equipment and lacks a treadmill. 

The breakfast area on the other side of the pool has indoor and outdoor seating. A staff member prepares two options daily: one American style, and one Tican style, with gallo pinto (rice and beans). Breakfast is free and comes with fresh fruit, juice, and coffee. Egg dishes are made to order. Guests can use the dining tables for drinking or snacking throughout the day. In addition, there are several lounge spaces around the hotel for reading, talking, and playing games. 

Covered parking is in a gated lot next to the entrance, though it can be a bit of a challenge getting in and out (Thomas or a member of staff should offer to help park upon arrival). 

A variety of restaurants can be found within a short walk of the hotel and the staff will gladly point to some of the better options.