anic

I am currently in Montezuma staying at the Hotel Amor de Mar. It is lovely though I wish a tad bit closer to town. Not that a 10 min walk is far, it's just a bit unfamiliar feeling walking in pitch black on a dirt road.

I flew in on Fri to SJO, spent one night at the Hotel Colonial, which was fine- clean, friendly, centrally located - then to a bus to Puntarenas and a ferry over to the Nicoya Penninsula.

I did not book any hotels in advance, just looked up what was available the night before I got to the location.

So that leaves me looking for a place in Manuel Antonio for 4 nights starting tomorrow 6/6.

I am traveling alone, with no car, budget max $90 a night. Though $75 a night would be great. Need to be close to restaurants or at least public transportation.

Looking at Mango Moon, Shana and Jungle Beach.

Any advise on these, I can't quite get the layout of MA. Looks like if you are close to the park you are far from places to eat?

Btw will post more details about my trip later.

-anic

volcanogirl

We've stayed at Mango Moon; it's on a side street off the main road. If you walk up it, you'll see all the restaurants. We liked it. Most of the balconies are not private there though if that's something you're looking for. La Posada Jungle Lodge is popular and might also be in your budget. We like Tulemar Bungalows, but it can be pricey. You could also check Villas Nicolas, Mariposa, and Costa Verde.

anic

Thanks volcano girl, I will check out your other suggestions.

Having a balcony would be great, don't need much privacy.

volcanogirl

I don't know if it's still true, but at one point Mango Moon was owned by a guy from the rock band Creed - fun fact.

MichelleY

Check Costa Verde. Various price points for different type units.

mlgb

I was also going to suggest La Posada. I'd suggest trying to book it online now if you can.


If you use booking.com etc there is usually a map view as well as ratings by users only..I try to stick to the mid 8's.
IIRC there was a restaurant across the street from Villas Nicolas. It is a little inconvenient if you plan on spending time at the beach. And seems to have raised prices..although that could reflect what is available.

Quite often f you telephone a place will have more rooms than what is listed on booking.com

anic

I went with Mango Moon. Booked it last night and arrived here at 11:30 today after taking the Zuma Tours speed boat from Montezuma to Herradura Beach then their shuttle to Manuel Antonio.

Hotel seems fine, room is a bit dark but it has a great view.

Strange thing, I seem to their only guest. I had to wait to check in because they are so slow they gave the receptionist the day off today. Only one cleaning lady was here to greet me and she did not know how to use the computer.

I've already hit the falafel bar for lunch across from Tulemar. It was yummy.

Now trying to see if I can book a night tour of some sort.

volcanogirl

I guess you didn't have any problem getting a room then!

There's some kind of little wildlife area near Si Como No that has night tours. Good restaurants in the area - Cafe Agua Azul, Cafe Milagro, Barba Roja - Ronny's Place is good but further away.

mlgb

Si Como No has that frog tour...

Maybe you can switch to La Posada? It's a better location.