Alpha Arenal Hotel & Hostel

Highlights of my stay: the breakfast and coffee was delicious and of great quantity! The manager at reception went out of his way to coordinate excellent tours at excellent prices for me. The location is great. It's off the main road so it's quiet, but it feels safe and it's a 2in walk to the main restaurants. Challenges: my room was directly on the main floor (the door opens up next to reception), meaning you don't open windows for safety. So it was VERY stuffy and with the humid climate nothing can dry. Grateful for the fans in the rooms though for sleeping! Also, the hostel doesn't really have comfy or quality spaces to lounge or hangout. Not much ambience in that regard. However, it was decent for the cost and a 2 night stay.

An absolutely amazing hostel. The time I was able to spend here was filled with great tours that could be arranged at the reception every day. What I appreciated the most was the staff’s effort to keep everything clean at all times. A lovely bonus was the sloth that had made itself at home in our garden. I honestly can’t think of a single thing to complain about.

The kitchen was pretty good. The bunk beds made a lot of noise when sleeping. There were a few dorm rooms all the ones on the main floor shared one bathroom so it often had a wait. The staff was super sweet and helpful, especially Bibiana. When I stayed their van was not available but apparently they often have $10 usd shuttles to the free hot springs.