The Hostelz.com Review
Galileo Hostel looks like it was pulled out of Alice and Wonderland -- the interior decoration could not get much wackier. That being said, such a hostel is sure to come with a whole lot of life and energy. The staff are friendly and youthful and the guests are trying to enjoy life to the fullest!
The Location
The hostel is quite centrally located in San Jose, making it easy to find. From the airport, you can take a bus and get off at the La Sabana bus stop (bar the HSBC bank) -- from there it's one block down 40 Calle. If you can find the main road, Paseo Colón, just walk until you reach 40 Calle, then turn towards the HSBC -- it's the next block. You won't miss it since the hostel is a big red building with an obvious sign on the front. There are a lot of clubs, bars, and restaurants located around the hostel -- even several ATMs if you're in need.
Rooms and Bathrooms
Galileo Hostel offers mixed dorm rooms and private twin rooms (with a shared bathroom). The dorm rooms are either eight or fourteen beds. There's also four lonely beds in the main upstairs hallway if you either need a short nap or don't mind the constant traffic. The dorm rooms are quite cramped and the mattresses could be a bit comfier, but they do provide you with free sheets and towels.
The bathrooms are very large and spacious, each with a large shower, toilet, sink, and mirror. But don't be expecting perfectly clean bathrooms.
Common Spaces
This hostel offers a nice selection of common spaces. The first common space is a series of relaxing couches right in front of the check-in desk. As you walk down the hallway, you'll find two computers for you to use, followed by the kitchen in the next room. The kitchen is free for you to use and store your belongings. The next room over is the bar/lounge, which has a large selection of beers. You will always find a party in this area, and the party often spills out into the outdoor patio area located beyond the hostel. Be warned that a sound sleep will be hard to get at Galileo Hostel, but a fun time is guaranteed.
Summary
Galileo Hostel might be a little too much to handle at first, especially with the hamster, fish, and dog that keep a watch over the place. But once you let go of "normality" a little bit, you'll be able to make yourself right at home. And hey, with complimentary phone calls to the U.S. and Canada, a few bucks a night is sure worth it for a place like this.
The Location
The hostel is quite centrally located in San Jose, making it easy to find. From the airport, you can take a bus and get off at the La Sabana bus stop (bar the HSBC bank) -- from there it's one block down 40 Calle. If you can find the main road, Paseo Colón, just walk until you reach 40 Calle, then turn towards the HSBC -- it's the next block. You won't miss it since the hostel is a big red building with an obvious sign on the front. There are a lot of clubs, bars, and restaurants located around the hostel -- even several ATMs if you're in need.
Rooms and Bathrooms
Galileo Hostel offers mixed dorm rooms and private twin rooms (with a shared bathroom). The dorm rooms are either eight or fourteen beds. There's also four lonely beds in the main upstairs hallway if you either need a short nap or don't mind the constant traffic. The dorm rooms are quite cramped and the mattresses could be a bit comfier, but they do provide you with free sheets and towels.
The bathrooms are very large and spacious, each with a large shower, toilet, sink, and mirror. But don't be expecting perfectly clean bathrooms.
Common Spaces
This hostel offers a nice selection of common spaces. The first common space is a series of relaxing couches right in front of the check-in desk. As you walk down the hallway, you'll find two computers for you to use, followed by the kitchen in the next room. The kitchen is free for you to use and store your belongings. The next room over is the bar/lounge, which has a large selection of beers. You will always find a party in this area, and the party often spills out into the outdoor patio area located beyond the hostel. Be warned that a sound sleep will be hard to get at Galileo Hostel, but a fun time is guaranteed.
Summary
Galileo Hostel might be a little too much to handle at first, especially with the hamster, fish, and dog that keep a watch over the place. But once you let go of "normality" a little bit, you'll be able to make yourself right at home. And hey, with complimentary phone calls to the U.S. and Canada, a few bucks a night is sure worth it for a place like this.
— Exclusive Hostelz.com Review
September 2011
Their Description
Galileo Hostel Details
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Galileo Hostel Reviews on Other WebsitesHostelz.com Guest Reviews
THIS PLACE ROCKS I stayed there twice and both times I was up way to late at the bar, but the wake up calls with free coffee got me to my bus both times. Free storage for your board and a sweet little dog in a cape. Without a doubt my favorite people in Costa Rica, I can't wait to come back. — Michael , USA (2010-02-17) Loved it! They place is bright, welcoming, and warm! You can curl up on the couch with the adorable puppy or drink out on the patio. Everyone is so friendly and wonderful. I loved this hostel wish it was on the beach instead of San Jose, but it was perfect to hang out between coasts. Owners and staff can help you out with pretty much anything. i will tell everyone to stay there. — tanya , canada (2009-09-26) Not for the boring Had an awesome time at Galileo -- the staff are really friendly and welcoming and you can't help but enjoy yourself. Definitely a good way to start a trip. Not for those wanting a good nights sleep though! — Maria , England (2009-08-16) Filthy. Avoid. Garbage everywhere inside and out. The garbage outside looks like it has been there for months. Filthy showers/toilets/refrigerator, massive dorm room, which smells like human sweat, rude and Ahole staff who think they are cool. Owner is a slob, another worker has a hostility disorder. The dog is a dog, he stinks, and he stinks up the furniture. Avoid! — Peter Stonesby , United States (2009-07-27) Galileo Hostel A second home when you are away from home. Staff make an extra effort to include you as part of the family, they go beyond their call of duty and include single travelers when they go out for dinners. Nice, hot, clean showers to refresh you in the morning. In the family room it is like a big extended family. Because of their level of performance when you are in this area you have a need to return to your second home and this is my second time here at Galileo Hostel, My second home. — Dulcie Marchant , South Africa (2009-05-16) Best choice, price of rooms, and location in San Jose. Definitely a very cool place to stay. The new owners are exciting and turning this into happening spot. Lots of friendly travelers, good rooms, and hot showers. Brian and Mer took care of everything needed. Love the paint colors everywhere. Can't wait to come back and see the final restorations. Rocky the puppy rocks. — J. Elizabeth , USA (2009-03-17) Fun, great energy, helpful staff This was a great stay. Incredible staff and location. New management has revamped the place into a colorful and upbeat experience. — Candee , USA (2009-02-18) Three-plus Very nice staff, very helpful. The room was good value and not very noisy as you would have thought. The location was good too even though you have to take a bus or a taxi to get to the center of the city. The bathrooms weren't very clean but it had hot water and were quite spacious. We only stayed for one night so we didnt get the feeling of it but Seemed like a great place for backpackers. — Sally , Norway (2008-03-15) I love this hostel! Th major bus routes from the north pass really close to the hostel so you only have to walk a block or so. The rooms are comfortable and cheap. The people who run it are the nicest, friendliest people, who make you feel at home and can answer questions on pretty much anything you want to know about buses, accommodations, etc. I would highly recommend this hostel! — Sarah (2005-03-20) It was a great stay. — Anonymous (2005-03-02)