Fodor's Expert Review Buena Vista Chic Hotel

Perched high above Alajuela, this hotel's superb staff make up for the somewhat dated, uninspired interior, and it does have the "good view" it is named for, although most rooms overlook the lawns or pool area. Three balcony rooms on the second floor in back have decent views of the Central Valley, but even better are the views of Poás Volcano from the three rooms above the lobby. Mostly, the view is best appreciated from the back lawn. Rooms are fairly standard—carpeted and sparsely decorated, with small baths and TVs. The restaurant behind the lobby serves international dishes and grilled items. The hotel offers numerous Web-only packages.