--stayed at the Hemingway first time last weekend on our first trip to Costa Rica. Was very impressed with the staff and management , who went out of the way to make us feel welcome.

--some necessary refurbishing is under way which didn't affect our stay at all --the new murals were especially fascinating --look to almost be in 3-d .

--we were very impressed, both with the Hemingway and with the rest of Costa Rica and are looking forward to a return trip--

I stayed at this hotel for 7 nights. I must say that I had a blast in San Jose and this hotel was a big part of why I did. The staff is great, everyone of them worked hard to make my stay a good one. Ellis the manager is a great guy. He was very helpful in arranging activities and answering any questions I had. The owner Calvin was also great. I had many good conversations with him. The people staying there were a lot of fun as well.

I paid 30$ a night plus tax, which is an amazing price. Breakfast was good (toast, eggs, juice, rice and beans/pancakes) and the room was nice and clean. I know Calvin is working on improving the hotel, once he is done the place will be a real gem. He is planning on adding a bar, and offer meals other than breakfast. As it stands, for the price you cannot beat the Hemingway Hotel. The rooms are comfortable, there is a decent selection of English language channels on the television, the common area is open air, and the staff keeps the room nice and clean. Understand, it isn't like a big chain hotel, so don't expect a Holiday Inn, but I would rather spend my money on activities while on vacation than drop a 100$ a night for a room I don't plan on being in other than to sleep.

Keep in mind that this hotel is not really a family friendly hotel. But for adults, backpackers, etc, it is perfect. The internet was free and had a good signal throughout the hotel. The hotel can book you whatever excursion you like and the staff is more than happy to tell you how to get anywhere, or in some cases, even offer to show you.

The area is quiet so you don't have to worry about a bunch of noise and it is conveniently located near all the main attractions of San Jose. There are 2 grocery stores within a 10 minute walk if you want to grab some supplies. The area is safe (at least from my experience) and well patrolled by police. The hotel will arrange transport to and from the airport for the same cost as a taxi.

All in all, I was very pleased with this hotel. I don't imagine my stay would have been as much fun if I had stayed somewhere else. Do yourself a favor and give this place a try if you are planning on being in San Jose.

Ernest would be proud to stay at the Hemingway these days, new ownership has begun to turn her around and clean her up. While not a 5 star hotel, you get a great deal for the $45-$55 per night usd. Well situated for nightlife, clubs, restaurants and bars and in a reasonably safe area in barrio amon. Historic charm is everywhere from her winding stairway to the wood paneled rooms and original hardwood floors, real distinctive old world elegance indeed. For the budget minded traveler you can't go wrong and the gratis desayuna tipico is better than average with fresh gallo pinto, pan, guava jam, fresh coffee and usually a cast of colorful characters to mingle with in the peaceful open air courtyard. Don't be put off by some of the critical reviews from inexperienced travelers here, the Hemingway is a good place to lay ones head in barrio amon, safe, clean, plenty of hot water, walking distance to the main attractions in the area and priced right.

I have been staying at the Hemingway Hotel for the past 5 years. I am so impressed with the new owner, the new manger and the rest of the great staff - friendly, interesting with lots of enthusiasm for making great new changes. Finally, the Hemingway has gotten management that fits the unique, artistic feel of the historical building.

There is a family like atmosphere that makes the guests feel welcome and like part of the team. They get to know the other guests and often make arrangements to meet up again on their next visit. There have been some wild and crazy goings on in the past. Those days are over. Now, it's professional, clean, fun and improving everyday.

Be sure and visit the small, but fascinating Jade Museum filled with beautiful examples of Costa Rican Indian Pre-Colombian art - only one block from the hotel. There is also a small park across the street from the museum where you can join the locals sitting and chatting amongst the tropical flowers, magnificent trees and bamboo.