Sleep Inn Hotel Paseo Las Damas

The Sleep Inn occupies a central downtown block, framed with streets on three sides, and gated driveway entrances to the property on two of them. The hotel shares the block with the Colonial Club Casino. Fittingly, the cream-colored hotel has a colonial-feel to its exterior design, with some pretty palm and fern gardens decorating the front. While they're not fancy, interiors are immaculately presented, unfolding through the lobby, into the breakfast room, upstairs to a mezzanine lounge area, and into rooms which are set over three levels. Unlike many San Jose hotels, the vibe here is not business-like and seems to attract more of a leisure crowd taking tours or as a stopover point pre or post flight. Downtown San Jose is a hub for sex tourism and there’s plenty going on in this area, so it can feel a little dicey at night in particular. While subdued, some of this activity can make it into the hotel. That said, the place remains perfectly safe and family friendly, as corroborated by a number of past guests. 

The Sleep Inn Hotel is located in the heart of downtown San Jose, directly opposite Morazan Park, and within easy walking distance of shopping malls, restaurants, bars, and nightlife. While the area is hardly picturesque, a row of quaint city parks and a stunning colonial building reside opposite one entrance and give the area a historic feel. The neighborhood is a little questionable, which should be kept in mind when walking around at night. One of the city’s best restaurants, La Esquina de Buenos Aires, is located a seven-minute walk away. The hotel shares the property with Casino Club Colonial which is literally footsteps from the hotel entrance. Other highlights within walking distance include the National Museum of Costa Rica (seven minutes), Parque Nacional (six minutes), Parque Zoologico Simon Bolivar (seven minutes), the Jade Museum (five minutes), Plaza de La Cultura (seven minutes), and the National Theatre of Costa Rica (eight minutes). The drive to Juan Santamaria International Airport takes about 40 minutes, depending on traffic. 

Available in Standard and Suite categories with king or double beds, rooms are understated but clean and quiet. A neutral palette blends soft yellow walls and blond timber laminate furniture, with brown carpet and bed runners on white bedding. Suites add open plan lounge areas into layouts, with dining tables for two. All rooms are equipped with free Wi-Fi, mini-fridges, microwaves, coffeemakers, and flat-screen TVs, safes, irons, and ironing boards. Bathrooms are nice and large with wide vanities and well-illuminated mirrors. They contain shower/ tub combos, hairdryers, and a selection of individual toiletries. While rooms get natural light during the day, the nighttime illumination could be improved. 

Features mostly cater to tourists. Free daily buffet breakfast is provided, though it’s a simple spread of beans, eggs, and fruits. The hotel shares its site with Casino Colonial -- it sits directly opposite the hotel. It’s open 24 hours, as is its casual restaurant, Magnolia. Guests can order 24-hour room service from the restaurant. There’s a business center located in the lobby and a small sundries shop sits next to reception. The tour desk right opposite can assist with local adventures and activities. A small gym is available for guests use in a vibrant space with four pieces of cardio equipment including a treadmill, plus free weights. Self-service laundry is on offer, and free airport shuttles can be arranged in advance, though operating hours are limited. Wi-Fi is free throughout the hotel.