Pension Santa Elena Monteverde Hostel is a fun, colorful, and pleasant place to hang out in Monteverde. Owners/operators Ran and Shannon, a brother and sister team from Texas, are extremely knowledgeable about all things Costa Rican, and are tireless in their desire to share their knowledge. Also, they know all of the best tours and can book them for you, even if you're not staying here.
The Location
Right around the corner from downtown Santa Elena and the bus stop, it's very well located and so easy to find. Just look for the porch where everyone hangs out.
Rooms and Bathrooms
This is a long, rambling building with a wide choice of sleeping options. All of the rooms here are different so ask to see what's available. You can even pitch your tent in the back, if you are so inclined. Most of the rooms are colorfully painted and fun to look at. There are no lockers available although the front desk has a safe for your small valuables. Bathrooms are clean and offer hot showers -- a real treat in Costa Rica. And here's a tip for you -- Monteverde can get quite chilly at night, go ahead and ask for a second blanket before the staff leave for the night.
Common Spaces
The big draw here is the comfy front porch, where everyone -- including the local dogs -- congregates. There's a couple of rocking chairs and a hammock, and some pool tables. Inside there are several tables to hang out at, with a nice book exchange and house copies of current travel guides, and a small computer room with free internet. The communal kitchen is clean, spacious, and well equipped, and there's free coffee available all day. Immediately next door is a small taco stand, with a delicious and affordable menu if you don't feel like cooking. Although twenty-four-hour access to the building is available, the inside common areas are locked up from 10 p.m. until 5:30 a.m.
Summary
Basically, Pension Santa Elena is a backpackers' dream of a hostel. The fun and funky building and friendly, informative, and welcoming owners and staff makes it a great choice to stay.
— Exklusive Hostelz.com Übersicht
March 2009
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