Stayed Jan 4th to the 8th, 2012. Beautiful grounds, good breakfasts, better dinners. Some other posts I read were that staff was less than friendly. I am barely able to communicate in Spanish, but found that showing an interest in learning about the area and the people brought out a very warm and helpful aspect in everyone, from housekeeping (Doris) to the front desk (Katherine).
In spite of having two solid days of steady rain and sea conditions that were poor, we had a great time relaxing in the covered areas, playing cards and visiting. Staff was willing to prepare food and drinks if wanted, but no pressure to have us buy or move, Lots of interesting details, flora and fauna on the grounds. The last day the rains lifted, animals came out, there were two sloths that came down from their rainshelters to let folks discretely take photos.
Yes, the beach is better for EXPERIENCED surfers, so do not choose this area if you have folks who need milder water sports.
Lastly, the showers - Lorenzetti "heated" shower heads are very common in CR. They may not meet expectations for North Americans as they tend to not get really hot (in the tropics, who needs HOT). If you can not get the temp you want, check with a staff person on operation, many places in suffer poor electrical controls so the circut breaker may need to be reset.
- Azania Hotel Puerto Viejo
